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  1. Thank you for sharing such a powerful and poignant poem on salvation. Your words beautifully convey the depth of God’s mercy and the profound gift of redemption. This poem is a wonderful addition to the body of Uplifting Poems About God’s Grace, as it not only uplifts the spirit but also reminds readers of the eternal hope we have through Christ. Your creative expression of faith is both moving and inspiring.

    Reply

  2. Hi Linda,

    Just wanted to say this blog post helped me with my study of the Word. Thank you so much for writing it here for us all to use as supplement to our readings. 15 years later, it still helped me. 🙂

    God bless you and your family. Keep writing. Xx

    Reply

    • Do you intend to pay the video online? If so, I would want to review it before it’s made public. I would also require that any posting include a link back to this post.

      Reply

  7. This is so awesome….I’ve never been here before. I have to thank Sue for bringing me. I thought I’d give it a shot.

    Bluebird Speaks

    The sun is just rising above
    A quaint mountain town called Love
    Mother feeds the squawking babies from her mouth
    Grub worms pilfered from rotting stump; home of the cottonmouth

    Sunshine glimmers through clouds like strings from a cello
    Illuminating the rainforest with a splash of yellow,
    Spongey moss covers the forest floor
    Tall redwood trees guard the evergreen door

    After the baby sweater was buried in the ground
    A stone with the word Pearl was all to be found
    Leaving alone the woman in the Victorian mansion
    Sipping Earl Grey tea on her back porch expansion.

    Cheers,
    Barbie

    Reply

  9. Linda, this post resonates with me. I’ve recently driven those southern CA freeways and asked others to be praying. I’m definitely a recipe creator and willing to try a new dish. Finally, our ladies Bible study is studying prayers and this week’s theme is lament. Same assignment. You did very well.

    Reply

  10. Your analogy and insight is still benefitting readers (like me) years after God led you to write it! Thank you for these wise and encouraging words.

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  14. Love the beautiful picture and poem! Great to catch up on all your adventures! God had been keeping you busy! Blessings🙏

    Reply

  16. So excited about you being a Guidepost author. I guess i need to work on submitting short articles to different resources. i have neglected my webpage as i have spent the year working on my autobiography. hope to get it published by the end of the year. Making Peace with the Pieces of my life. I have felt God writing through me on this journey. Been a year of therapy. Am just going to self-publish. I have also been publishing a weekly newsletter for the community where I live. It is amazing the comments i get when i have the courage to share my faith. Keep up the good work.

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    • Thanks! I completely understand having to neglect some things for the sake of others. I haven’t been blogging much at all this year because I just haven’t had time. I don’t think God expects us to do it all. We have Jesus for that. 😊

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      • Do you know if Dr Crystal Grimes from mysticalstrings blog is still writing poems and music? I would like to get in touch with her if possible. Has her website moved? her site was: mysticalstrings.wordpress.com

      • I don’t know. I’ve been focused on other things and have lost touch with some of my old blogging friends. Have you tried googling her name?

      • I tried, I can’t find anything. She seems to have disappeared. Nobody in her family has heard from her in five years. I am worried about her.

    • I’ve long believed that the more I write, the easier it is to write. Turns out the converse is also true. The less I write, the harder it is to get words on paper.

      Reply

  30. Hi Linda, I haven’t forgotten and I am keeping my word to you. First impressions of what is unfolding before our eyes can often be deceiving, so do not be dismayed. Seek God in your prayers and I am pretty sure that God has something He wants you to see or learn in store for you. I think that often we don’t appreciate how much God cares for us and His ways of showing us this can often be personal, so be watching. I was watching a small flock of pigeons yesterday all feeding on a piece of bread on a sidewalk and I was mindful that God was aware of this flock. And then God reminded me that as Jesus said, we are worth much more in the eyes of God than some of his creations like sparrows or pigeons. He knows the number of hairs on our heads, when we rise and when we lay down. God cares so much more for us than we can imagine. Take heart Linda. Blessings!

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    • Thank you. I confess I don’t remember what you promised, but I do appreciate your prayers and encouragement. I know Good has a plan and he is faithful. Even this poem he used to encourage one of my fellow writers who was feeling discouraged too.

      Reply

  36. My favorite place is right at home as well.

    ——————————-
    Here is the final stanza of Unknown Sin using “mist” and “midnight”.

    Through moral mist we’ve claimed our pleasure’s good.
    On Halloween the candy was a treat.
    The apple from the midnight witch was sweet.
    We counted every coin. Our fevers could
    continue pleasure, rightly ours. Or, should
    we punish doing tricks out in the street,
    manipulating weaker ones we meet?
    Our unknown sin was doing what we would.

    Reply

  40. Thank you so much for the weekly prompts. They were responsible for getting me out of my “writing burn out” and back into the writing game again. I believe I participated in each and every one of the prompts the first time through the deck, although I could be wrong. I also believe I have a few bonus points, with which those and $3.50 might get me a cup of coffee at Starbucks.

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  41. I did not give up the ship. I am writing and went in a different direction. Next week I will post. I hope the paint chips cooperate. This has truly been a crazy time in my life!

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  42. Tolkien made those rolling hills of Middle Earth attractive.

    ——————–
    This is a continuation of “Unknown Sins”.

    My memory is like gray rolling hills
    where smoke and ash and haunting dragons hide
    the sins I have forgotten through my pride
    and could repeat should pleasure offer thrills.
    The consequences though would give me chills
    were I aware. Main paths are much too wide.
    The narrow one’s too slippery? May I slide
    into the hands of God whose Spirit fills.

    Reply

  46. I like the boasting in Jesus at the end.

    ——————
    This is a continuation of “Unknown Sin” from last week using spirit rock, ghost, grizzly and olive branch.

    The afterglow is pleasant, but the night
    that follows buries me with guilty stress.
    A spirit rock lacks any means to bless.
    It offers stuff a ghost might hint brings light.
    I want what’s moral, truly moral, right.
    No grizzly olive branch can clean this mess.
    It’s dark. I’ve lost my way so I confess,
    again, and may this time my way stay bright.

    Reply

  47. I don’t know what it is about these octaves, but they’re hard! I wrote one for the first week but won’t be sharing because it’s too dark. Working on this set of paint chips today. 🙂

    Reply

    • It’s up to you whether you share your first octave, but I don’t think being “too dark” is a reason not to share. It may be just the thing someone struggling needs to read because they think they are alone in that darkness.

      I look forward to what you come up with for this week.

      Reply

  48. I like your continuation from last week. There won’t be sharks in the resort pool.

    ————————–
    Unknown Sin

    Ir’s bittersweet recalling unknown sin
    provided there’s repentance at the end
    that offers peace that a clean heart can tend
    to find the righteous path and try again.
    Without that bramble our new hearts may win
    to change direction, toss our current trend,
    and find the narrow way around the bend
    that lets at last the Holy Spirit in.

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  50. Just realized that I haven’t even started this prompt yet. *awkward laugh* I’ve already posted three times today but will see if I can write something good for this. If so, I’ll share. 🙂

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    • Thanks. Only the bigger bear is mine. Ranger Bear belongs to a writer friends of mine who writes historical mystery/romance novels set in national parks. 😊

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  52. I may have to sit a few out. My brain is tired and calling for rest. Hopefully I will have something toward the end of the month, seeing this is a continuing thread. Lots going on here. I will still read others.

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      • I have seen too many miracles lately. Why do I think God is out of them? Here is my first one. I know where I am headed, just not sure how I will end up there. Used just one word, which may be my theme word throughout. The title will come at the end. It always does.

        She stands, a red carpet at her feet
        Arrayed in white, all eyes turn to behold
        This blushing bride. Stories begin yet endings unfold
        A silent pause broken by a love song sweet

        Fountains of champagne promise no deplete
        Laughter and tears numb burns and softens cold
        Mellow mixture poured into an antique crystal mold
        Old and new line a petal-strewn street

  53. I like the last line in your poem about finding the ring set.

    We have been ill recently and because of that I missed last week’s prompt. I may have to miss this one as well. Thank you for offering them! Best wishes!

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  57. This took all day and I think it needs a lot of polish! Don’t understand the envoi part. 38 lines. Well, I tried.

    The Making of a Dream

    Dreams fly as sawdust on sandpaper
    Drifting lazily down atop a field of poppies
    Couched in the warm blues of unsung melodies
    Muffled by the clamor and cacophony
    A safety orange sun set in lavender
    Disturb not and none will notice

    Homogenized flavors none notice
    Sleep’s rust chafes like sandpaper
    Restless dreams seek peace in lavender
    A toxic trance from this field of poppies
    Deepen the wounds of clamor and cacophony
    Chords changing tempo in soothing melodies

    Harmonious no more are melodies
    A tournament now a few notice
    Violent wrest and arrest in Cacophony
    To fight or desist each a grade of sandpaper
    The lure and sweet fragrance of poppies
    Soak in the prism of lavender

    Soon shades emerge from lavender
    Hot and cool split from the melodies
    Dreams once diluted in a field of poppies
    Quietly awaken some take notice
    Smooth softened edges from sandpaper
    Strangely still in the wake of cacophony

    Angels gather around the cacophony
    Dipping their wings in shades of lavender
    Marbled swirls polish as sandpaper
    No longer grates but extract sweet melodies
    It no longer matters who will notice
    Let all fall asleep in the field of poppies

    Snow out of season in a field of poppies
    Everyone wakes in amazed cacophony
    Dreams know only one matters to notice
    The maker of both music and lavender
    And dreams survive in heaven’s melodies
    But need waking up to the scratch of sandpaper

    Don’t let your dreams slumber in fields of poppies
    Awake with the day and don’t settle for lavender

    Reply

  62. For years my profile name oh social media is tqhousecat. I never revealed what tq means. This week I painted one and thought it time to tell. I even posted a picture and wrote a poem on dverse but still did not say much. This prompt is perfect and I guess it is time.
    A little sad, but I will get over it.
    Turquoise, my birthstone. December.

    The Revealing
    This vintage turquoise housecat like ultraviolet rays
    Incite my palate sweet ‘n’ sour like sparkle in the sun
    Such a rare shielded species
    A precious gem dearly cherished
    Now displayed gingerly
    Securely guarded
    Do not blemish

    https://photos.app.goo.gl/jX2zemn5qRU3TKLS7

    Reply

  63. For years my profile name oh social media is tqhousecat. I never revealed what tq means. This week I painted one and thought it time to tell. I even posted a picture and wrote a poem on dverse but still did not say much. This prompt is perfect and I guess it is time.
    A little sad, but I will get over it.
    Turquoise, my birthstone. December.

    I hope these are similes.

    The Revealing
    This vintage turquoise housecat like ultraviolet rays
    Incite my palate sweet ‘n’ sour like sparkle in the sun
    Such a rare shielded species
    A precious gem dearly cherished
    Now displayed gingerly
    Securely guarded
    Please do not blemish

    https://photos.app.goo.gl/jX2zemn5qRU3TKLS7

    Reply

  65. Deep dark wood is soothing as you mentioned in your poem.

    ——————–
    Sparkle Like Sunshine

    A bouquet’s like a bluebird who
    without a sound knows what to do
    and vintage turquoise like the sky.
    The evening comes so let us try
    to understand like deep dark wood
    and do in darkness what is good
    when daylight trusts us on our own.
    Let’s sparkle as deep truth we’ve known.

    Reply

    • Looking forward to reading it. For once, I actually finished tomorrow’s prompt before you commented. It’s usually your comment that reminds me I haven’t done it yet. 🙂

      Reply

  68. Late, sorry. I managed to get 5. That wasn’t super easy.

    Never again but instead

    Cotton candy.
    Spun sugar tainted red
    Like spun truth from lies
    Leaves you with a sticky face
    Hard to erase.
    Clown nose.
    Mask of distraction.
    Painted smile.

    Give me fresh-squeezed sun
    Through cloudy skies
    While I run through verdant fields
    That lead to endless dunes
    Ending at the sparkling sea
    Reflecting off the silver moon
    Ah, cream-of-the-crop!

    Reply

    • You’re not late at all. Prompts are open indefinitely. 😊

      I love this poem. Nice use of fragments. Although my favorite line isn’t a fragment. “Give me fresh-squeezed sun through cloudy skies” is brilliant.

      Reply

  71. I like your description of him as being tall with a smile as wide as the Grand Canyon.

    ———————-

    End and Beginning

    Cotton candy sunny side up.
    Be the cream of the crop.
    Sustain your faith. Persevere.
    The end is near when evil stops.

    Reply

  76. I tried. Happy anniversary!!

    A perfect Union

    A bride’s dress of white could be a brown- paper package
    Buried inside may be layers of luggage

    A perfect partner is a gem of moonstone
    Who will stay close beside you and won’t let you roam

    Seeds sown in September reap winter’s wheat fields
    A perfect season for weddings and a lifetime well sealed

    Reply

  77. Congratulations on your 35th anniversary!

    Slant rhyme is hard as you note in your poem. I especially liked the “fierce/verse” pair.

    I didn’t know Rhymezone offered slant rhymes, but I’m glad it does. I used it to come up with some of the near rhymes below.

    ——————–

    A Scarecrow’s Gratitude

    Those ravens are black
    and that fact is exact,
    but a moonstone’s no moon
    though there’s room to presume
    that these wheat fields have wheat
    and a scarecrow’s a beast.

    Thus he cheerfully thinks
    as the day flips to night
    giving all gracious thanks
    while the sun leaves the sky.

    Reply

    • Thank you. Sometimes it’s hard to believe it has been 35 years. I’m ready for another 35.
      You picked the rhyme pair that was the holdover from the poem about my sister. It may show up in another poem again someday, though it didn’t belong in her poem.
      I love your poem. You have a few internal rhymes in addition to the line-end rhymes. Very nice. It seems this scarecrow does have a brain and a heart of gratitude.

      Reply

  81. Three poems, no titles

    January I sunk into the black hole
    Dug with last year’s chisel
    A summer sparkle now traces the edge
    Showing me all is not lost
    True light always finds a way

    A child, I grew among the trees
    Even tasted acorns on paths beneath my feet
    Giant oaks from bitter seeds
    Houses filled with possibilities
    There is hope in every bitter thing

    A string of pearls real or faux
    Look the same, hard to tell
    It takes a jeweler with a well-trained eye
    What about you and I
    It takes an all-seeing eye

    Reply

  85. I especially liked the last two lines of your poem. May God transform all of our grit.

    —————–

    I much prefer a purple moon,
    a wonder I can see,
    than any black hole scientists
    might think that there might be,
    but that’s just me, admittedly,
    preferring what I see.

    Reply

  89. Didn’t take the first time..
    A fun prompt after a grueling week. A poem for each word, untitled.
    Hurricane winds expected Sunday in my area. Another ocean trip quelled! Oh well, land-locked!
    Please pray for minimal to no damage.

    Chanterelle and I never kissed
    Morels and portabellas leave sweet whispers on my lips
    Apricot hues and visions of the sea
    Grow in the wood tempting me
    But I’ve been warned

    Humidity is a heavy blanket
    Bleached clouds block the sun
    From inside I think
    A breath of fresh air!
    But still life in the trees
    Say otherwise
    Exhale
    An accepted sigh

    Am I brass or bronze
    Am I hard or strong
    Each an alloy
    I too an alloy
    Nature and Spirit
    Oh to be an ally
    And not just cohabit
    That’s braun

    Reply

    • The first comment came through, but I’m glad you added your prayer request in this one. I will pray for safety and protection. I’ve never been in a hurricane and I don’t think I would want to.

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  90. Oh this was fun after a not-so-fun week! One poem for each. All untitled.

    Chanterelle and I never kissed
    Morels and portabellas leave sweet whispers on my lips
    Apricot hues and visions of the sea
    Grow in the wood tempting me
    But I’ve been warned

    Humidity is a heavy blanket
    Bleached clouds block the sun
    From inside I think
    A breath of fresh air!
    But still life in the trees
    Say otherwise
    Exhale
    An accepted sigh

    Am I brass or bronze
    Am I hard or strong
    Each an alloy
    I too an alloy
    Nature and Spirit
    Oh to be an ally
    And not just cohabit
    That’s braun

    Reply

  93. Chanterelle
    Chanterelle growing at my feet
    They are but mushrooms, wild and elite
    You cannot find them in the street
    This short poem would be incomplete
    Without mentioning they’re good to eat

    (I have too many bonus points, so deduct away)

    Reply

  94. It can get too hot in summer. It often gets too cold in winter. I didn’t know what a chanterelle was, but those negative bonus points made me look it up.

    ————–
    Midnight

    At midnight taking a breath of fresh air
    without the moon nor others on the street
    I pray that my imaginations there
    all come from God who makes the breathing sweet.

    Reply

  96. Down with the stomach bug. Not fun, but it is useful to the prompt. Hyphenated words I counted as 1. Is that correct?

    A contest Never Fought

    I read matcha is quite the tea
    promising instant energy
    Non-GMO, gluten-free
    Before my gut billowed like the sea
    I could have faced them valiantly
    And watched who met whose match

    Reply

  99. Trying not to focus
    on the fact I don’t like
    the taste
    and stay aware of all
    it’s benefits
    I stare into my cup
    of matcha green tea –
    help me Jesus.

    Reply

  100. Obsidian is a beautiful stone when polished as you mention in your poem.

    I remember once around Mexico City’s tourist sites seeing carvings made out of it perhaps to some of the Aztec gods. I lost the souvenir I purchased long ago.

    —————–
    Obsidian

    I tossed that shiny god of glassy black
    obsidian I bought one careless day,
    or lost it somewhere. I don’t know.
    Thank God, it’s gone. I now can try to pray.

    Reply

  101. Nice obsidian poem. I remember the matcha prompt, and nearly everyone had to look it up.

    Your prompt word of “corn maze” and a baseball game I watched last night inspired to me write a poem about the Field of Dreams. I came no where close to containing it to 31 words, but I figured I would share it here for a few “invaluable” bonus points.

    https://ronrowland.com/is-this-heaven-no-its-iowa/

    Reply

  106. I too, babbling brook

    Faithful Waters

    Sitting aside the babbling brook
    It whispers all its secrets
    It laughs right by the forest knoll
    I promise not to tell a soul
    Sharing mine
    One moment free and whole

    Reply

  108. Lizard

    No lazy lizard on a whitewashed wall
    am I who has to make a choice today.
    Obey or slide and tumble to a fall
    or overcome the evil in some way.

    Reply

  112. I very much appreciated your heartfelt memorial poem to your dear sister. How wonderful that you have the beautiful restored table, “It Is Well With My Soul” to remember her by.
    Sincerely,
    Barbie

    Reply

  117. I tried. The first line the monostitch and the 2 following a couplet?

    Dust devils gather as soon as we turn our heads

    We give no mind to the inchworm because we walk in strides
    Moths fly toward light while we are blinded by our pride

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  118. I liked the thought of seeing the “devil” and the “lily” from the school bus in your monostich. I can also imagine someone seeing that on the way to school.

    —————————–

    I’m not sure if this qualifies as a monostich. It sounds like it could be two lines due to the rhyme and meter, but it is short enough to be written as one.

    Dream

    Inchworm fossil, green flash bright, school bus quiet for the night.

    Reply

  120. What a beautiful poem. ❤️ It’s so sad that you didn’t get a chance to visit her, though. The good thing is, as you imply in your poem and as Saint Paul says, “we do not mourn as those who have no hope.”

    Reply

  121. I’m currently writing my villanelle, Linda. It’s kind of slow going. Not sure why I always wait until Thursday to write for your paint-chip challenges! 😅

    Reply

  124. I like how the three marigold faithfully unfold displaying God’s beauty in Creation.

    I have read bits and pieces of Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress recently especially the ending.
    —————
    The Pilgrims Reach the River

    From deep-sea vent to ice cap peak
    we followed where the trail led.
    The breath of God would to us speak.

    We let hope shine upon each cheek.
    We faithfully faced doubt and dread
    from deep-sea vent to ice cap peak.

    At places where the way was bleak
    we listened as the words were read.
    The breath of God would to us speak.

    This pilgrimage is for the meek,
    for those believing what was said
    from deep-sea vent to ice cap peak.

    This is a river, not some creek.
    To those who fear we’d seem as dead.
    The breath of God would to us speak.

    Euphoria is what we seek
    where there is more than mortal bread.
    From deep-sea vent to ice cap peak
    the breath of God would to us speak.

    Reply

  128. Nly done this once before a few years ago. This took a long time for the form to behave. I hope it is right.

    Free

    I sip my earl grey tea and sigh
    My porcelain cup filled to the brim
    Dull elephants do catch my eye.

    My marigolds I do espy
    Look lovely from my window’s rim
    I sip my earl grey tea and sigh

    A deep-sea vent dissuades a cry
    Instead a smile not just a grin
    These elephants can walk on by

    Ice caps now threaten as they try
    I let things pass as if a whim
    I sip my earl grey tea and sigh

    Eden’s fragrant and sterile skies
    Long since is closed by Cherubim
    This elephant dull as a fly

    Euphoria now drawing nigh
    The curse of Satan did not win
    I sip my earl grey tea and sigh

    Reply

  132. It is a blessing to have known a friend who patiently listens while supporting each other in “hope and peace and love”. Your poem reminds me that I should listen better to those around me.

    ——–

    Short Letter to a Self-Centered Dream That Wasted Much Time

    Looking back I tried to do
    the black cat things you teased me to.
    Convinced that what you spoke was true
    with night owl eyes I followed you.

    You’re tongue-tied. Good, but I still thirst
    and relish for a fresh sunburst.

    Reply

  134. “Cleansing Love”

    A love that never spoils or fades –
    Patient, yes; some might call it slow –
    Giving time to pull back the veil,
    To expose ourselves and come close –
    The scarlett letter washed away.

    Reply

  135. Took a little time.

    To the entitled I leave this untitled

    I get tongue-tied when I speak
    Your syllables like vines choke me
    And you say poetry has to rhyme
    So you can’t relish every line
    I see the monk’s robe that you wear
    But underneath I don’t know who’s there
    A vow of silence and plea for trust
    Like red clay I taste its rust
    I love the sound of a night owl
    Sunbursts lull them to sleep

    Reply

  139. Linda, I totally missed this week’s prompt. One death, (a client), one funeral, one memorial service, one last goodbye to friends moving far away. I just read the prompt and I guess I felt the stress of each and so many unanswerable questions. Maybe I wasn’t supposed to engage. Will continue with the next, Lord willing.
    I love your poem.

    Reply

    • Mary, I am so sorry for your loss. Perhaps you can return to the ubi sunt prompt when you’ve gained a little distance from your initial sorrow and write a private poem to honor client and friends. And may God bring you comfort and peace in full measure.

      Reply

  140. Linda, I just read your two poems. Both, so powerful. Every line. “Don’t ever call me brave.” Yes! No matter what the shame, in Christ we are unashamed.
    “What are these weeds, we planted seeds” (going from memory, may not be exact wording. Thank you. May God use His words through you to bring healing to many.

    Reply

  142. I’m excited to try this! In my French literature class, we read a few poems by François Villon and did an analysis on “Où sont les neiges d’antan?” ❤️

    Reply

  143. I wanted to share with you my terza rima, Linda, even if I don’t end up writing a post on my blog for it:

    A little life, from seed to seedling
    Grows, standing in whirlpools of wind,
    Which blow strongly, without succeeding

    In toppling the tree. Life is not binned,
    Even if happily ever after
    Is not found, nor exact purpose pinned.

    Relax, like with a tea of lavender.
    Golden is the dusk, when sun is setting.
    Slowly the sapling’s growing taller.

    Reply

  145. Sorry! I wrote a rondelet but forgot to look at the rest of the challenge, so here’s the proper one:
    Cabin in the Woods
    One crazy night,
    In the rainstorm everything changed,
    One crazy night.
    We snuggled down by the fireside;
    Finally battled through the pain,
    Savouring each other again,
    One crazy night.

    Reply

  146. Wonderful God –
    Voice lifted in jubilant song –
    Wonderful God!
    Giving Your life, shedding Your blood;
    That we might live free from our wrong,
    Always praising You all day long –
    Wonderful God.

    Reply

  150. I like how you reminded us that God has set the seasons and we remain faithful.

    ——————

    I used “spring”, “pizzazz” and “peachy” in this poem.

    Ubi Sunt

    Long ago we studied here when it was still a place.
    Your name I have forgotten, but I still can see your face.
    And others, too, their words we heard. I hear them still today
    with spring pizzazz and peachy smiles before we went away.

    Reply

  152. I love your opening line “In the depths of winter darkness gray as graphite”
    I am also intrigued by this form, and I already have a few ideas rattling around in my brain (waiting for one to gel). I immediately thought of the song: Where Have All the Flowers Gone?

    Reply

  164. I like how you expressed in your poem the painter’s secret love shown only in his paintings and ending with him doubting his dreams of her love.

    ———-

    Blank Canvas

    The seedling blooms like lavender.
    The golden sunlight shines and we
    remember all, the way things were.

    Forgive, we do, each enemy.
    No secret shadows stand today.
    Forgive us, too, both you and me.

    Now every tear that turned life gray,
    that smeared our pasts into a blur,
    He’s wiped away, He’s wiped away.

    Reply

      • I’ve always really enjoyed it though it’s so hard to follow. I use cheat sheets ..all kinds of commentaries..to understand the symbolism. Being Catholic I sort of get certain things. Besides that there are all sorts of references to his then current events, and historical and literary references I’ve always been so exceptionally smitten with~

    • I don’t think I’ve ever made dumplings, but this might inspire me to give it a try. But I’ll have to wait for cooler weather. We’re expecting a high of 113 this Sunday so I won’t be cooking much hot food.

      Reply

  169. Oh gosh, Linda! This one spoke to me and I had to try! Haha!

    ivory gargoyle
    nicknamed “dumpling” by his peers
    in dappled sunlight
    ponders retort stuck right there
    on the tip of his stone tongue.

    Reply

  171. If this doesn’t make anyone smile, it is only five lines long.
    —————–
    Grumpy Gargoyle Grumbling in the Shade

    Ivory gargoyle groans,
    “Me, why me? I’ve got to know!”
    None dare answer why.
    “Dappled sunlight, new leaf tones,”
    grumpy gargoyle grumbles so.

    Reply

  172. Not sure it will make anyone laugh, but I did use four paint chips.

    Blurry-eyed

    Opportunity
    A new leaf is a page turned
    In dappled sunlight
    It may look like choice ivory
    Or just a bunch of spinach

    Reply

  177. Just the way it came out…All 7

    Recognizing A True Halo

    She wore Vermillion lipstick and jeans of faded denim
    Polished stone glittered in the sun like a jewel
    A faint blush spread stirred and sweetened the venom
    Deceit seeks its reflection as it mirrors every fool
    The mystery of the mystical is hidden in the practical
    Oxygen depletion in the Alpine is anti-climactical

    Reply

  178. It is good to be homesick for heaven.

    —————–

    Celebration

    In faded denim, rosy blush,
    he offers her a polished stone
    from water where the rivers rush.
    She knows that she is not alone.
    In greens and yellow, alpine light,
    Today the festive way is bright.

    Reply

  185. Hi Linda, don’t take to heart what your friend said, what she means is that SHE doesn’t like hearing about it and that need not affect your witness to others from your heart. The other feedback you received where you received encouragement is the one to focus on and understand that what you do, does encourage others. I don’t think you received that counterbalance encouragement just by chance, I think God was letting you know you are doing what you should be doing. It’s beautiful how God does that at times. You can’t change what you have become, so don’t even entertain it. May God’s grace, peace and blessings be poured upon you and yours.

    Reply

  186. Cabin in the Woods

    A firefly knows
    He is safe in the darkest night
    A firefly knows
    The light within is why he glows
    Oh will I ever get it right
    Jesus in me is my true light
    A firefly knows

    I’m not sure the title fits the poem, but this is what came out.

    Reply

  188. I remember seeing fireflies in the evening when I lived in the country. They are beautiful.

    Here’s my poem using “fig leaf”.

    Cabin in the Woods

    In fig leaf clothes
    I pace the cabin’s floor today.
    In fig leaf clothes
    I worry in the woods. Who knows
    the secret that I’ve lost my way?
    But it all shows. I’m on display
    in fig leaf clothes.

    Reply

  189. Linda, I am so sorry for your loss. You never need apology or explanation for writing or not writing on your blog. I have been on a much needed break from the poem sites. I can’t say how long. A lot going on in my life also. You are always in my back pocket though. You may see me soon.

    Reply

  191. I’m sorry about your sister. Although I missed the paint chip prompts the last couple of weeks, I was more concerned about you than the prompts. <3

    Reply

  194. I’m so sorry for your loss. I haven’t yet lost a sibling, but I imagine it would hit me hard. I pray God will comfort you. Poetry and poetic tributes must help a little, and the thought of heavenly concerts.

    Reply

  195. Here is my response to the challenge.

    —————-

    In your eyes I saw clear skies
    before the rain that day.
    All left at once out of the blue,
    the sunshine and the sunflower, too,
    the hot sauce, zest for life I knew.
    Our margarita laughing pool
    shut down. You went away.

    Reply

    • I miss all the people mentioned in my poem, but I hope I am living life to the full
      in spite of their absence. httpss://suestrifles.wordpress.com/2021/06/05/paint-chip-catch-up/

      Reply

  197. I am sorry to hear about your sister. Such loss does seem like an everlasting total eclipse of the sun, but there are those heavenly concerts and much more. Beautiful poem in memory of her.

    Reply

  204. I like the reminder in your poem that peace comes swiftly from Jesus.

    ——————–

    A tiny trinket out of jade
    deceptively was smoothly made.
    I bought it. Why? I do not know.
    My dreaming mind got caught, went slow.
    I wonder now how much I paid.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I’ve been needing peace from Jesus a lot lately. I love you poem. I think I might have purchased that same trinket and don’t remember what I paid. Usually while on vacation. 🙂

      Reply

  206. Gaia really wasn’t there
    the way my mother was.
    The full moon of the night or dawn
    were never heartbeats I’d count on
    the way my mother’s was.

    Happy Mother’s Day!

    Reply

  208. This is thre third Mother’s Day tidbit I’ve written in a few days. I managed to use all the words. Hope they fit together

    Transcendant

    Second Sunday in May
    No matter what the weather
    Full moon or waning crescent
    Families come together
    No pyramid too high to scale
    No distance can sever
    A heartbeat heard
    Loud enough to blend
    Great plains with the dawn
    A mother’s love learned
    A memory fierce
    Gingko Biloba and hot sauce
    Neither spurns or burns

    Reply

  215. Coming off April’s 30 days, 30 poems added to my 3 weekly, this may be a little strange, but I get it.

    Sharp Edges

    I learned to separate pins and needles
    One has an eye while the other a head
    One holds the fabric and one pulls the thread
    Be careful to harmonize, don’t homogenize the two
    Quicksand lies still till its victims accrue
    But who can resist an indigo sky?

    Reply

  218. Here’s a first version.

    Way

    There’s quicksand by the pearly gates
    for those who wander off the way,
    who love the breezy, sleazy mud.
    The pleasure pops – another dud.
    On pins and needles – one more play.
    “Let’s try again!” And there they stay.

    Reply

  222. Nesting Instinct

    I spy a robin gathering bits
    Of hair and feathers, twigs and sticks
    String, paper, mud and grass
    She builds a nest she knows will last

    When it is to her satisfaction
    She lays her eggs with no distraction
    Her mate brings food and keeps close eye
    For predators both on land and sky

    Her brood is never far from her sight
    Not for a moment day or night
    When you see fledglings lying alone
    Mother is close with food for her own

    She won’t stray far till all can fly
    Till all can fly

    It all started with a sturdy nest
    A mother’s heart knows what’s best

    Reply

  223. Swamp

    The surface of the swamp you see –
    Below, the rotting mystery.
    The light green algae ought to know
    There’s nothing good down there to show –
    Sweet pleasure covers secret sin
    and quicksand should you venture in.

    Reply

  226. Nice to have you back Linda! I’m not sure this serves as a narrative, but here it is. Sorry its not happy. And it is totally fictional in my world right now anyways.

    Its Not Always a (Good)-bye

    Her hands ran across the glass table
    An antique rose sealed between glass
    She remembered when he gave it to her
    This was how she made the memory last
    Petals intact
    Beauty captured
    Breathless and still
    Now she was the one that couldn’t breathe
    Autumn turned to winter too soon that year
    Sudden death is a whiteout
    No colors appear
    Now she felt like a jack-o-lantern
    A flame in a hollow shell
    Burning tears run down
    Till all is melted on the ground
    How many more mustard seeds would grow
    Mistletoe above her waited
    But no one kissed

    Reply

  227. I liked the hopeful ending in yours and I wonder what happened to Jack. I feel confident she learned to surf.

    Here is my attempt at the challenge:

    —————-

    The Night of the Jack-O’-Lantern

    The jack-o’-lantern’s hollow nose
    turned darkly down on Antique Rose.
    It’s scornful eyes pierced Mistletoe.
    It’s toothy mouth warned them to go:
    “It’s easy peasy in the street
    Where greens and pinks and yellows meet.”
    But pleasure wasn’t why they came.
    No morbid magic, flashing flame
    Could substitute for righteous light.
    They stood their ground, prepared to fight.

    The jack-o’-lantern burnt all night.

    It’s pride at dawn collapsed within.
    Mistletoe knew they would win
    And so did joyful Antique Rose.
    Their faith like Mustard Seed’s still grows.

    Reply

  229. I am in the process of praying “Lord, fan this fire before I go another step!” I read 1 Cor 13 this morning, and oh brother, am I proud!! I believe acknowledging it is the humility the Lord wants to see, and then He can lead you through it.

    Reply

  230. I dont know if this is right, but I wrote a poem using looking glass. No title yet.

    I stood before the looking glass
    Inspecting every whit
    I wanted to make sure
    Every part of me was fit
    As I stepped out of view
    What I failed to recognize
    The image looking back at me
    Was in reverse
    It lied

    Reply

  231. I dont know if it is exactly right, but I used looking glass and wrote a poem.
    I still don’t have a title.

    I stood before the looking glass
    Inspecting every whit
    I wanted to make sure
    Every part of me was fit
    As I stepped out of view
    What I failed to recognize
    The image looking back at me
    Was in reverse
    It lied

    Reply

  232. Linda, after reading this post yesterday, the idea of metonymy showed up in my dream last night! Unfortunately, my dream-self did not use any of those paint-chip words. 😅

    Reply

  233. Here is a poem using “rabbit hole” as you have. Have a blessed Easter.

    I used to love my rabbit hole
    so dark with death and dirt.
    When Jesus bopped my rabbit ears,
    washed my clothes, released my fears
    these tears of joy don’t hurt.

    Reply

  234. METONYMY is a new word for me. Looking at the paint chips, in my mind Plymouth Rock naturally equates to Pilgrims. I’ll get to work and return later with a link.

    Reply

  237. You are right Linda. It is easier to write much than little.

    Amateurs thought it was a bright idea to scale the mountain, but the steeper they climbed, the crackling beneath their feet joined in chorus with the sound of the avalanche, and suddenly, it was too late.

    Reply

  238. You have inspired me . . .I thought of another. 🙂

    Falling on the freshly mowed lawn after one too many, she recalls something about margsritas removing grass stains instead of just causing them

    Reply

  243. Paul.said in Romans 7, the things I ought to do, I don’t do and the things I ought not to do, i do. I would love to know what they were, but probably never will. I love to write, but probably do it at times I ought to be doing something else. What I like to do, is write, and what else? I don’t give it much thought cause I’m doing what I think I ought. Complicated, isn’t it?

    Reply

  244. Had a hard time with this one

    Random As The Words

    Without a prompt words drift
    No semblance of thought
    I fall off my stepping stone
    Land between the cracks
    Stirring up only dust
    What is reality now?
    Grandma’s hydrangeas only bloom in my mind
    Heirloom tomatoes we never ate till it was too late
    To enjoy them all together
    Without a prompt words drift

    Reply

  251. I hope I did this correctly. Never heard of this poetry form. It was a challenge.

    Give Me Wings So I Don’t Have To Climb

    Niagara Falls-it makes me
    Glad I don’t have to climb to see
    Tops of mountains may seem free
    A dragonfly knows no difference

    Pack tissues when you leave your home
    Friends help but you still feel alone
    The pain of flagging muscle tone
    A dragonfly knows no difference

    It takes two to tango-love’s dance
    A Synchrony of sweet romance
    Black widow’s lovers take a chance
    A dragonfly knows no difference

    A warm glow of sunshine breaks
    Through waters clear or icy lakes
    I like my feet clamped down with stakes
    A dragonfly knows no difference

    Reply

  252. Like you I need more time for this one, Linda. Next month I intend to post my attempts at these poetry prompts on Sundays as I’ll have a post for Blogging from A to Z in April every day except Sunday. Perhaps I’ll start that routine early!

    Reply

  254. Looking forward to trying this today! I like your poem, Linda. 🙂 I also love the word “juxtaposition” so was sure not to forgot about the paint chips this week! 😅

    Reply

  256. Of course, I looked up the word i never heard of, and of course, I’m brain went in all different directions, and of course, it is contrast, so i think it counts as juxtaposition. But if it doesn’t, well im wrong. Only used two words. I usually try to use all seven. That is juxtaposition. I looked up the pronunciation of bougainvillea and it is 4 syllables.

    Beauty captivates
    I’ve known lightning to strike twice
    Bougainvillea tree

    Reply

  260. A Moment to Idle in the Idyllic

    My crocus soon will poke its head
    And wake up in a snowy bed
    No, it won’t have saffron threads
    Just a harbinger of spring ahead

    Summer’s verdant rolling billows
    Bring dandelion puffs like sea foam pillows
    And butterflies with thick villose
    All flit and fly like there’s no one left to owe

    A sprig of mint upon my breath
    Forget-me-nots not here quite yet
    A scarecrow may taunt but is no sure bet
    For birds will take all they can get

    The ocean tide always lures
    Her constant moonwalk toward the shore
    In her retreat she gathers more
    An idyllic scene to bring serene for sure

    Reply

  267. Linda, I know this is a longer than a traditional haibun. I did shorten it some. Thank you for this. I only wrote once about my trip in 2001, or 2002. It was so good and timely that I revisit it.

    It was a chilly morning in March when we arose in the dark. Months of planning and preparation behind us, my husband packed the car and we drove to the church. We and 7 other Christians transferred luggage to the van that would drive us to the airport. We were going to Jamaica for 7 days to visit a missionary couple from our church. My husband and I had a special invitation to stay at their home, while the others paid for separate lodging. This Pastor and his wife held a dear place in our hearts. They counseled us when we lost our first two children.

    Everything proceeded like clockwork and I was excited to spend 7 days in the tropical sun, away from the snow and cold. After a while sleep filled my head like dust bunnies and I drifted off to sleep to the lull of the road underneath.
    Everyone stirred like tumbleweeds as our driver pulled into the busy parking area. When the luggage was being passed it was clear that two of my suitcases were not included. After deliberation back and forth between my husband and my Pastor, it was concluded that I did not realize we had more luggage than I thought, as we were also responsible for a couple bags of medical supplies. As I was transferring the luggage from car to van, I had left our clothes in the trunk of the car. It was too late to go back and I tried to suppress the impending supernova in my husband’s expression.

    We continued our journey. We were missionaries for seven days. Our pleasure was not God’s intent. My husband got severe motion sickness from riding in the back seat up the blue Mountains on the left side of the road. I had one borrowed dress to wear for the week, plus the slacks and blouse I arrived in. I listened to roosters crow, dogs bark and watched strange insects walk along the wooden slats in the middle of the night.

    Ten minutes every day in the afternoon was a rain season and water was scarce. It was piped down the mountain certain days of the week. High humidity made it necessary that I wore damp clothes much of the time. There was no dryer. I never saw the beaches you see on television.

    We visited families who lived in slums. We listened as they shared their struggles, losses, hopelessness. We shared the hope of Christ. The people I met ministered to me much more than I ministered to them. People laugh when I tell my story of my awkward ways and forgetfulness, but I look back and see How God works in His attributes and character through His ways, not ours.
    I know I experienced the best of Jamaica. I returned changed.

    Atop a mountain peak
    Our eyes take in earth’s splendor
    Descend and see more

    Reply

    • This is splendid! Not too long at all. I wondered, as I read, if God hadn’t orchestrated the forgotten luggage as a means of allowing you to relate to the locals and them to relate to you. I suspect that many of them lived with few changes of clothes as well. Thank you for sharing this.

      Reply

  271. Nice encapsulation of magical Maui. I broke with my tradition of not reading yours before I wrote mine. That is because I already know what I’m going to write about: a surreal experience that I love to tell people about and that I’ve wanted to put on my blog. Thank you for presenting (prompting) me with the perfect opportunity. (Time to get to work and see if I can find those photos)

    Reply

  277. I never read any poems until I write mine, just to avoid repetition and influence. Love this Linda.
    You have hummingbirds in winter? I didn’t know they could stand the temperatures.

    Reply

  278. No Wonder It’s Valentines Day

    A table set deep in The depths of her gizzard
    A snowbird survives despite the blizzard

    A hint of aura casts hues of violet and coral
    To ease the angst of an impending blizzard

    Halfway to spring is no primrose path
    When you stand in the wind of a whiteout blizzard

    Sour grapes sprinkled with sugar-glazed promises
    May fortify troops for a spontaneous blizzard

    Arouse not my love till winter is past
    Feast from His table though all loose is tossed in the blizzard

    My Ghazal is based on Psalm 23:5 and Song of Solomon 2:7-11
    I wrote one a few years ago for dverse. Interesting prompt and quite challenging.

    Reply

  280. Nice blizzard ghazal. Are you getting blizzards up there or just ghazals? We’ve been spared (so far).

    I had an image that I intended to use in a Valentine poem and was hoping you might prompt us with a Valentine theme. The ghazal is a new form for me, but I think I unknowingly penned something very similar to it recently. Anyway, here is mine:
    https://ronrowland.com/heart-and-soul-aura/

    Reply

  284. For the most part, I am taking a break this month from posting on my blog. Reason why I will post my poem here. I dis not receive the email last Friday (strange), but found it yesterday.
    This was a bit challenging. I managed to use 5 words.

    Be Wise and Brave, Not Afraid

    That rabbit jumped
    You would have thought he saw a ghost
    Sparky barked, yet limped from side to side
    The window pane a clear divide
    But how that bunny ran in fear
    In a whirlpool of despair
    Right into enemy hands
    One shot in the night
    Right before the dawn of light
    Sparky hindered by an ailing plight
    Man and beast took relish in their plan
    Whiie mama placed the parchment in the pan

    Reply

  285. Life is all about choice. The one choice of receiving Christ as our Lord and Savior is the one choice that makes the most difference. Yes, may I choose Him every day, but thank God for His seal of salvation when I don’t. Romans 5:1.

    I did not get a paint chip poetry prompt this week. Taking a break?

    Reply

    • That is the one choice that matters. The rest is temporary.

      I did post a paint chip prompt last Friday, but it was a little later in the day than usual because I didn’t get it finished and schedule on Thursday evening. I might have left the word “prompt” out of the title.

      Reply

  291. I’m happy to see you are excited about ekphrastic. When you get to the letter “S”, I would like to put in a vote for doing a Sea Shanty.

    I didn’t read the challenge very well until my poem was completer. Therefore, I did not see or adhere to the part of the challenge to use one of your photos. Here is my entry, based on one of my photos…
    https://ronrowland.com/tintern-abbey/

    Reply

    • You are so sweet Teresa. I just love your heart and how God has settled in and regularly reminds you of things He wants you to never forget. Thank you for bringing this post to my attention once again. It hit me a bit differently this time around because of different life circumstances. I needed to be reminded, too, that God loves us so.

      Reply

  305. I love C.S. Lewis. Never knew there was a journal. I think the challenge is not that we don’t hear Him in the midst of busy, but often what He says may require an immediate decision, (as you say, who will we obey at that moment, and conform to). In the quiet times, He speaks and we have time to muse it over, I am not always “instant in and out of season”.

    Reply

    • There was a moment, around cinquain #5, that I began to regret my plan to write 7. But, for better or for worse, I stuck with it. I like how yours turned out even with the fewer stanzas.

      Reply

  324. To Linda
    Each week she chooses chips at random
    And a theme we are to use in tandem
    Sometimes the words flow effortlessly
    Other times we seem to struggle incessantly
    The challenge is simple and spelled out in detail
    Although we often falter and blaze our own trail
    She does it for her love God no matter what the season
    Each of us accepts the challenge for our own unique reason
    For me it has been quite therapeutic and even a little fun
    It helps to fertilize my soul and allows my thoughts to run
    I thank you Linda for the challenge each week
    To put down in words what my heart wants to speak

    Reply

    • Thanks. It’s actually a poetry card game I bought in Hawaii last year. But since I have no one to play it with in person I decided to use it for these poetry prompts. 😁

      Reply

      • Well, I wrote a poem…but completely missed the point that it’s supposed to be on the theme of “country faith”. So I’ll scrap my draft–and I don’t know if I’ll come up with another one. It’s not an issue regarding lack of “faith”–I’m a devout Christian; I just overlooked that the prompt words also have a theme. My apologies, Linda.

      • No worries. Not everyone follows all of the prompt rules all of the time. You’re still welcome to share whatever the paint chip words or phrases inspired. I post a new prompt every week, so check back on Fridays. (And my apologies for the delay in responding to your comment. Somehow it ended up in my spam comments folder.)

      • Thank you, Linda–I appreciate the grace and invitation. No worries about delays in replying–I recently deleted a blog and opened this one because the Spam was incredible…so I don’t mind now if I have to fish someone out who is Not Spam 🙂 I do love the paint chip concept, so I’ll keep an eye out for your prompts 🙂 God bless you abundantly during this precious season😇

  352. Just for fun…

    I remember well
    the rain-drenched night
    my love and I did stroll,
    hand in hand.

    Umbrella open,
    Barefoot sloshing,
    through moonwalk puddles
    with hint of vintage turquoise.

    It was easy peasy
    until I stumbled
    upon the hearthstone
    along the path.

    My foot did ache
    until morning sun rays
    left me
    in a tangerine dream.

    Reply

  360. Thank you for this! I love this poem. It’s so simple but the more you read it the deeper the simple feeling goes until it’s the same as if it were complicated. But it has a depth charge. I remember running a day school on Lyrical Ballads and when we got to this poem one woman was suddenly in floods of tears. She couldn’t stop crying. She recognised something in the particular kind of grief the old man feels. That’s how Wordsworth strikes me too. He’s not showy but the more you know him the harder it is to escape the feelings.

    I really want to write on this poem myself now!

    Reply

    • I love your “painting,” somber though it is. It’s a grave reminder that we shouldn’t waste even a moment of the time we’ve been given. (Sorry, pun intended).

      I tried to post this comment on your blog, but I kept getting that weird “your login has expired” error message.

      Reply

  372. Hi Linda. This was a good selection of words. Here’s my poem:

    I’ve spent my life running, said the old ma, hand touching his grizzly cheek.
    Running from memories, running from pain. I can’t seem to stop.
    Sitting here I see wheat fields, the bramble climbing the hedge
    What’s left of the herb garden by the iron gate. I’m tired.

    What’s that you say? You’ll have to speak up.
    Yes, I’ve travelled. I’ve been around. I’ve ridden the rails.
    I sailed to the States in the forties, a wonderful time.
    The Great Plains, the Rockies, the prairies. I loved it there.

    Yes, I am afraid of death. I am. I don’t know where I’m going.
    Wherever it is, I don’t want to go there. But I know I must.
    Nice to see a youngster using a pencil. Old-fashioned. I like that.
    Paper and graphite working together.

    Thank you for coming, for writing me up.
    It’s good to think that someone remembers me, what I did.
    Mind your step by the gate, that’s where my wife met her end
    The snow and the ice and the blood still lingers.

    No, no, I’m fine, just a memory. A movement.
    Sometimes I see her, at the gate, waiting.
    She’s waiting for me. I know it. To join her.
    A shadow, a whisper, an ending. Good bye.

    Reply

  379. The Zephyr Starship
    Nosing through the galaxy
    So slow, so angry
    Like a black widow spider
    Venomous, unseen, fatal.

    Reply

    • Thank you. I hope you realize that you coming in with your poem on Thursday afternoon is the reason I remember it’s Thursday and I need to do my post for the following morning. If not for you, there would likely not be many 7:00 a.m. postings. 🙂

      Reply

  389. Thank you for sharing your heart. You’re the only other sexual trauma survivor I’ve found online that includes God in your journey when writing. I am also a survivor and write at hopeaftersexualassault.com. I look forward to reading more of your writing.

    Reply

    • Thank you for connecting. I look forward to checking out some of your writing.

      It breaks my heart to read post on Facebook by sexually assault survivors who struggle to find healing but don’t want to even hear about God. I would probably not be here today without Him.

      Reply

      • No, never been to Africa. I tried to make this a conversation between our ancestors awaiting their entry into Ohio in 1798, but I couldn’t figure out how to work “elephant” and “nightingale” (a bird not in the Americas) into it. Africa seemed to be the logical Plan B.

  400. Here is my first attempt:

    To Night

    We lay on animal skins, that night in the cabin in the woods
    You and I, gazing into each other’s eyes.
    Blossom outside, the night owl hooting,
    Our love ablaze, no end in sight.

    Now I sit here, cotton nightie, comfy slippers, glass of water as I take my pills
    A million miles away from that young girl in love.
    I trusted that you would never leave me, never let me go.
    But you slipped away one night while I slept.

    I loved you like the night, like the deep ocean, like stars.
    You said you loved me too. And I know you did.
    You went first. I wish it had been me, you standing by the graveside.
    Not long now, my darling. I’m coming. My vision blurring. I’m sleepy. It’s showtime.

    Reply

    • Oh wow! For a first attempt that is stunning. You brought tears to my eyes. I especially like the image of the cotton nightie, comfy slippers, and glass of water. Thank you for sharing.

      Reply

      • Oh gosh, thank you Linda! How kind. I wrote it quite quickly last night and it’s the first time I’ve used prompts. They were so helpful. Thanks to Susan Sanderson for telling me about this brilliant idea. Have a wonderful day.

    • I tried to post a comment on your blog, twice, but both times I got an error message that my WordPress login had expired. Not sure what’s up with that. But what I tried to write was:

      I love your poem. I’m a big fan of spring and summer, not so much fall and winter. Although this fall has been pretty nice here so far. Your rhyme scheme is awesome and I like how you worked in jack-o’-lantern even though the theme was April mornings.

      Reply

    • Yay! I love it. I can relate. I’m happy for others when their writing efforts pay off, but confess a little envy does creep in.

      I tried to click the Like button on your blog, but I keep getting some weird pop-up that disappears before I can even see what it says.

      Reply

  494. What a fun idea! It really got my creative juices flowing 🙂

    I rise out of the water in time to see a firefly land on a nearby shrub. It’s dusk and the water is cool. A lap swim is just what I needed to cool off from this humidity. I avoid the deep end because of the imaginary sea monster who lives below. I rise again and look around at the patina forming on a nearby metal shed and contemplate going back inside. I’m hungry and there are fresh heirloom tomatoes waiting on the counter. Should I leave the coolness of the water? I picture a wishbone being pulled by two opposing forces. I am green with envy for those who can make decisions so easily.

    Reply

    • Aw thanks! Funny thing is, all I had to do was picture my childhood home, summer time and swimming in our pool.

      Reply

    • I like this a lot. I tried to comment last night, but my computer was being difficult and I kept getting an error. But thanks so much for the reminder that the new prompt was going up today. I hadn’t written it yet!

      Reply

  506. That is perfect. I was with my sister last week and she was raving about the care of her window boxes while she was away. She said she has never really seen her flowers grow so good. I said you have to deadhead them all the time. She laughed. She won’t. Hahaha

    Reply

  508. Made me smile.
    I moved several flowering plants in pots to an unprotected area. The deer were more than willing to dead head them all for me and they even cleaned up their mess. The plants are fine, just bloom-less. 🙂

    Reply

    • Thank you. I just rescued this positive comment from spam! I guess I need to check that more regularly. It seems to be catching more legitimate comments these days.

      Reply

  511. Oh, this is quite beautiful. I love how positive this poem is, and how there’s the theme of encouraging the flower to bloom through care. That can be applicable to many things in life. Fantastic take on the prompt, it is lovely. ❤

    Reply

  515. I think you should make a post a requesting everyone to submit a prompt. Here is my submission “What if There Were No Prompts”

    Reply

  533. Now if only I can think of how to put this idea into a poem. Maybe after a good nights sleep, I hope.

    When I was little, I had a potpourri of Old Leather boots, past on to me by my big sister. As time went on, her euphoria was all about the color yellow! As in a Turmeric flower, bright yellow pennies, even the bright yellow of the Lazy Lizard.
    How silly she is, me, I’ll stick with my dreams of Sea Serpents and Mermaids.

    Reply

    • …and now that I have read yours, I see once again we were on the same thought train

      Reply

  549. I like the way you explored the ambiguity of ‘the blues’, Linda, and love the thought of ‘a guitar riff that talks’. Welcome back to the pub! 😊

    Reply

  553. Great job Linda! Takes me to the song that starts, “Well, I never felt more like singin the blues….”
    Affliction and sadness seem to be universal… very well said!

    Reply

  558. Thanks for being a blessing.
    I stumbled on this article while searching on how Girl and silver is refined.
    I appreciate the fact that you focused on our refiner (God) more then us the unrefined ones❤️
    God bless you ma’am

    Reply

      • Thanks for letting me know. I need to do a lot more testing before it’s ready for prime time.

  564. Confession is always good for the soul, I know since it is my practice as a Catholic.

    As for myself, raised in Chicago a city that is divided into racial groups big time, at least that is how it was when I was young. As I became of age, I think back to experience I had with the blacks or browns, and it was always so positive. Several times it was a black person who came to my rescue when I needed a helping hand. Thinking back now, it would make a good blog post, my grateful experiences.

    Reply

    • That is awesome that you had that experience. I do think it is important to the conversation to highlight those as well. I definitely think you should write it.

      Reply

  566. Linda, thank you. This opens the door for others to write and express the faults in their own hearts. I know I have many. I don’t know how God will lead me, but if He does, I hope I can be a as obedient and courageous as you.

    Reply

  567. Thank you for your willingness to trust God with this; I can relate to trying to move away from what He’s telling us to do and yet, because we do love Him and He is the faithful one, we finally surrender in faith. Your four “less than” statements are very ponder-worthy.

    I grew up in Texas and know without doubt I had racist relatives and I also had white relatives who lived in the part of the town where most of the black families lived. I felt most connected to those relatives because they exhibited love in so many ways. It’s not that I didn’t love my other relatives, too, but I absolutely couldn’t understand then, nor now, how anyone could think anyone is “less than” because of skin color.

    Again, thank you, Linda.

    Reply

  571. It Runs In The Family

    We note quite young, facts of our self, that others tend to see
    Later in life we realize they’re inherited from our family tree

    Our height, our eyes, our nose and hair, and yes our general looks
    Are passed down the generations, we don’t buy them from a book

    But what about the way we walk, the way we hold our head?
    Are they traits we learned or the mystical ingredients of DNA instead?

    Grandma’s hydrangeas were things of beauty over by her fence
    Now your fence line has them too, is this really a coincidence?

    When faced with a choice between a banana split and key lime pie
    Your answer may be preordained, making it useless to even try

    Accept with gratitude those little things, that add up to make you you
    Just remember, they’re not yours alone, many ancestors had them too

    Genealogy has many facets and is much more than just a tree
    That quirky trait of yours, you may discover, that it runs in the family

    Reply

  572. Grandma enjoyed her mystical key lime hydrangeas while eating banana splits
    With gratitude I do the same, it runs in the family, and that’s as good as it gets

    Reply

  582. There’s both fondness and wistfulness In your words. I never stayed anyplace in my childhood long enough to form that attachment–it’s something I envy sometimes. (K)

    Reply

  586. Anxiety And Relief

    Anxiety awaits us, often creating great anguish
    What a relief we feel when we make it vanquish

    That summer camp day we feared would be frightening
    In contrast it was pleasant and even enlightening

    Our trip to the beach could have be ruined by a shark
    Turned out that the ocean was more fun than the park

    We feared the bright sunshine would damage our skin
    As it happened the straw hat protected all but our chin

    Grandma worried of spoiled canning reaching our belly
    But the wax seal held tight, preserving the grape jelly

    With trepidation some order their first margarita
    Then they order a second to accompany their fajita

    Anxiety is a real and can hit you hard as concrete
    Don’t dismiss it lightly but don’t mount a retreat

    Small steps are important when you face those rough seas
    Smooth sailing awaits you, relief often comes in degrees

    Reply

    • I love this! I appreciate the validation, to not take anxiety lightly, since it can hit like “concrete,” along with the accurate recognition that to face one’s anxiety can lead to more happiness than expected.

      Reply

  588. I enjoyed the picture you painted of your old hometown, Linda, so different from the scenery I know. I love the image of you on your bike pedalling up hills and down ’dodging dust devils and pot holes’, and the dog acting as scarecrow made me smile.

    Reply

  589. Such a wonderful trip down memory lanes. There is something special about a person’s home town that can never be replaced in the heart.

    Reply

  591. I love this insight into your past and do think where we grow up plays a powerful part in our poetic lives. So clever the way you weave the words in and no Pyramids! Just a really famous zoo nearby, great!

    Reply

  593. Guess My Hometown

    My hometown is neither little nor big
    See if you can guess it, now on with this gig
    No need to look far and no need to squint
    Just pay attention to all of my hints

    My town got its start as a port on the lake
    Where fog rolled in and immigrants claimed stake
    The border war of 1835 would seal its fate
    The state to the south would be shipping its freight

    The skilled craftsmen there made glass from sand
    And many other artifacts were crafted by hand
    The fulcrum of a pyramid can balance quite great
    Creating scales very famous, no springs, honest weight

    The spotlight of wartime ushered a new era for keeps
    And Willys Overland became home of the Jeeps
    The citizens work hard, but they also play and have friends
    To relax they chew bubblegum and watch the Mud Hens

    There’s a song about a man, left alone by Lucille
    He had four hungry children and a crop in the field
    Another songwriter spent a week there one day
    They roll back the sidewalks precisely at 10, he did say

    My town is too north for jasmine or palm trees to grow
    But many countryside cornfields contain a scarecrow
    If you haven’t guessed it by now, you probably never will
    My hometown is Toledo, part of my heart is there still

    Reply

  601. This is so horrid to read, but more so why she would even think of blaming herself.
    I think most cases of rape and sexual assaults are untold.

    I stopped going swimming as a boy because of the predators that lurked in the locker-rooms… nothing ever happened, because I ran away and never came back… but I blamed myself a lot.

    Reply

    • I blamed myself for my assault for a long time too, partly because I willingly went with him to the place it happened and he was my first boyfriend. To hear someone like my friend blame herself too tells me there is something very wrong with how we talk about and view sexual assault as a society. I can’t change it all by myself, but I can make my contribution to the cause.

      Reply

  605. Oh no!!! I said it aloud and it still echoes in my brain. Horrible horrible and you did an admirable job of presenting without sensationalizing. Your comments in red are so effective. I am so glad she has you to talk to. Horrible that she felt she couldn’t report it but I understand that can be a sort of second rape. I wish I could wrap my arms around her. Please do so for me. xoox

    Reply

  609. “Thank you, Lord, for giving Linda a willing heart and listening ears to embrace this woman with extraordinary, Jesus love. Thank you for Your healing and for your grace; grace that will take what was evil and use it for Your Glory so the enemy doesn’t get to deepen the wound within her. Please flood this daughter with Your indescribable peace. Thank you, again, for allowing Linda to be a part of this healing story. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

    Reply

  611. Listen to the Ducky
    Listen carefully and if you’re quite lucky
    You’ll hear the quack of the rubber ducky
    He’s eating cheese puffs and drinking hot cocoa
    Look out when he spills it and cries out “oh, oh”
    The wet monsoons will wash away his cares
    His modesty requires a fig leaf you know where
    The kindling started fire will be his feather dryer
    And purple mountain majesties will let him fly higher

    Reply

  612. Listen Carefully

    Some sounds are unique and quite easy to hear
    They trigger the senses and memories appear

    The rain that accompanies the wet monsoon
    Is not drowned out by the noise of afternoon

    Hear the crackling of the kindling in the fire
    Then comes hot cocoa before our evening retire

    Other sounds are subtle or not even heard
    It takes imagination to know they occurred

    The wind blowing through trees makes a sound
    But you may never hear a fig leaf hit the ground

    Purple mountains make majestic backdrops
    To the near sounds of silence of swaying crops

    We all hear the sounds that enter our head
    But we must listen carefully to what is not said

    Reply

    • Excellent! And you used 5 of the words. I don’t know if rubber ducky or cheese puff are going to make it into anyone’s poem, but only time will tell.

      Reply

      • My 2nd submission covers all the bases, and it took me less than 5 minutes. The midnight ride of Paul Revere was stuck in my head (and apparently yours too), which gave me numerous false starts on this one.

  613. I cannot stop sobbing ……… i was pushed up against an old splintered barn on a dark summer night …. I never told a soul.

    Reply

    • Oh Helen, I am so sorry you had to experience this. Now you’ve told me, and that’s the first step to healing. As long as you keep the assault a secret, it has the power to make you feel as if maybe it was your fault — which it was not! I pray you will find your voice to share your story so that when it is in the light you will know where the blame belongs and that you are loved.

      Reply

      • thank you …. for years I did blame myself. It happened in the 70s, thankfully I found my inner voice, strength and belief in myself. It was not my fault.

  617. Linda, the healing power of her being able to share her story with you is immense. Your validation to her, of listening, of caring, of loving her with her anguish means everything. <3 to her and to you.

    Reply

  619. What an experience – thank you for giving her voice and sharing her story. This is very painful to read but she is not to blame for what happened to her.

    Reply

  621. Thank you for giving her a voice. May she find peace, and may those miscreants suffer karmic revenge!

    Reply

  631. Finding Friends

    Jack climbed the beanstalk looking for a friend
    But the giant wasn’t friendly and died in the end

    Tom found a new friend on the endless dunes
    But they became marooned with only their tunes

    Audrey had better luck than either Jack or Tom
    She put on her ballet slippers and danced ‘til dawn

    Her new friend Alice was as cute as a kitten’s nose
    Walking together they’d often stop to smell the rose

    Robert never was one to ride the school bus
    When forced to do it he created quite a fuss

    By avoiding that ride he missed a great chance
    Of making any friends under that circumstance

    Finding lifelong friends is not the same for all
    For many it comes easy, for others a brick wall

    Some avoid friendships for fear they might spoil
    Others take to new friends like sawdust absorbs oil

    I’v made different friends through stages of my life
    Some of them in good times and others during strife

    My best friend forever is the apple of my eye
    This someone she loves me, on that I can rely

    Reply

  633. Great poem, I’ll try!
    My move went fairly well except moving my computer left me without the Internet for 24 hours, no phone, no ipad no connection to the world. So I read a book and what a book it was; I might even write on my blog about it, Titled: The End of the present World, by Father Charles Arminjon.

    Reply

    • Glad to hear the move went smoothly. I haven’t moved since 1989. Don’t think I ever want to. As for the lack of internet, sometimes unplugging for a bit is a good thing.

      Reply

  635. The steps we take make a whole lot of difference in the lives of others… we cannot afford to be selfish ❤️❤️

    Reply

  653. Clever poem and have a great B I R T H D A Y!
    I am moving, therefore; my creative are shut down, too much to think about. My move is just from my main floor to my basement apartment. My daughter with two of her daughters will move on the main floor to be my caretakers as I gracefully age. LOL! However, with all my “stuff” I collected over the years, going through it, no time for fun, at the moment.
    To all reading here, carry on, I still have time to read what others are creating!

    Reply

  654. Pursuing the Dream Job

    Doing the 9-to-5 can be hazardous to your soul
    Like getting sucked into another black hole
    But leaving the salt mine takes a strong lion heart
    It requires much courage to make a new start

    Some dream of escaping to the ivory towers
    For others it’s spending all day with flowers
    A small amount of saffron goes a long way
    And just a little passion turns a job into play

    Pursuing dreams can put a spring in your step
    Like painting the spirit rock before the big pep
    Those with musical talent don’t consider it a job
    When a saxophone solo is requested by a snob

    I guess you could say I’m living the dream
    And doing it right is sweeter than cream
    I’m talking about what many call a job
    But no work is involved for this poor slob

    You see it’s all about doing what you love
    Passion will help meet your needs from above
    It helps to not call your activities a job at all
    Earn income from your hobby and have a ball

    Reply

  659. It is hard for me to press the “like” since I don’t like the sadness. So many people suffer from abusive spouses. When I was in 7th grade, the nun advised us, girls and boys, to pray each night one little prayer for the man or woman we would eventually marry, and so I did. For years I prayed one Hail Mary for my future husband, not knowing who he would be. My prayer must have been heard since my husband treated me like a queen, he passed away 7.5 years ago. We had 6 children and many grandchildren now the greats are coming. I know he sees them from the other side.

    So sorry for all those who suffer in abusive marriages.

    Reply

  660. I am living with an abusive controlling husband and I am blind and in a wheekchair. He is my Carer. But he cintrols utterly and I have no privacy. Henis cruel. It has made it wirse being in locjdown. I am Christian too.

    Reply

  664. I Once Had A Job

    I once had a job involving cars and trucks
    I helped make them go by pumping the gas
    This job was not fun, and I had to move on
    Searching intensely with my looking glass

    I once had a job delivering flowers and birds
    An iris, roses, and tulips in the spring
    But I could not deliver a field of poppies
    And I couldn’t make the songbird sing

    I once had a job of removing the pine
    Cutting the weeds and preparing the soil
    So began the nursery of plants and shrubs
    But the work wasn’t easy and how I did toil

    I once had a job guarding the entry to the club
    Showing drunks to the door if they caught disco fever
    Some jobs for me were clearly not worth waiting for
    I severed them cleanly with a swift heavy cleaver

    Reply

  670. Hello. I just found you here Linda. I have joined in, and here is my offering.

    On windy days we walked
    Along the MARINE Drive
    Below the CLIFF DWELLING
    Where the sea swept onto the road
    Jumping dangerously over the crashing waves
    At night under Orion’s gaze
    The SUNSET having taken us up in its glory
    Soothing us like aloe vera
    Oh there was no red carpet under the reddening sky
    But in our hearts was a total eclipse
    That lasted for fifty years

    Reply

  675. kaykuala

    The last stanza says it all. There is always a silver lining to see us through when things are the hardest!

    Hank

    Reply

  678. Key to Happiness

    For some, it’s all about posing on the red carpet
    While others want to make a fortune in the market
    I believe both of these are likely full of emptiness
    And are a total eclipse of what is true happiness

    As Bob Dylan once said, “Up on Project Hill,
    it’s either fortune or fame,
    You must pick one or the other,
    Though neither of them are to be what they claim”

    Solitude for some will seem the right ambition
    Living in a remote cliff dwelling far from civilization
    Others gain happiness by living off the land
    Tending their aloe vera crop each day by hand

    Small moments can often put happiness in reach
    Exploring marine life and relaxing on the beach
    Or waiting until long after sunset darkens the sky
    Then picking out Orion’s belt with the naked eye

    My view is that love and happiness must go hand in hand
    And doing what you love is integral to this demand
    Sharing it all with someone should be done from the start
    Because the key to happiness is usually found in the heart

    Reply

  685. My first thoughts were the colours and precious stones in Revelation, but what I wrote was:

    At the end of the day

    The sun sets lighting
    The sky yellow and hot pink
    Above the amethyst sea.
    It’s the golden hour: let’s drink
    Chamomile tea, remembering
    Our first kiss.
    Now did we clash spectacles
    Or did we miss?

    Reply

  687. Just A Day In My Life

    I woke and faced the first kiss of morning
    Prepared for a day of adventure and yearning

    Time to pick out paint for my new office décor
    Neither hot pink nor amethyst will work, I’m sure

    Tried to spice up lunch with a little this and that
    The addition of habañero made it so hot I spat

    Tea time came early, starting just after three
    An assortment of cookies and chamomile tea

    Happy hour arrived and it was much more my speed
    A glass or two of red wine is really all that I need

    Pandemics, murders, and ice caps filled the evening news
    Stock prices were volatile as investors changed their views

    As the day winds down I begin to reflect and ponder
    Which part did I enjoy most, my mind did wonder

    The golden hour of sunset is tops, no need to pretend
    Then drifting off to dreamland is how my day will end

    Reply

  690. I too have had to face fear and anxiety in my life. Thank you for writing to give a voice to this subject while adding the voice of hope. Blessings! I look forward to reading more.

    Reply

  691. Haha. I love this. We have peanut shells all over the garden from a certain squirrel who like to use our drain as a bin. I think he only does it to wind up my husband.

    Reply

  694. Okay….you made me smile. I’m thinking of our days in Iowa many many years ago when we had to try and outsmart the squirrels with our bird feeder. I think we finally went to our vet and bought one of those plastic cones you put on your dog so they don’t scratch their face….greased it up and somehow connected it to the pole….the squirrels slid right down but when the grease wore off, we had to go out a vaseline it again! 🙂
    Thanks for the silly memories! 🙂

    Reply

    • That’s hilarious. My husband hung a flat square feeder from a line this year and put seed in it for the birds. He created an obstacle course of wires on both sides of the feeder to keep the squirrels out, but they just navigated the obstacle course like pros. It’s nice that now there are the squirrel proof feeders that close from the weight of a squirrel so they can’t get all the seed.

      Reply

  700. True Love Q & A

    How does one find true love, what is the clue?
    You don’t go and look for true love, it finds you
    It’s likely not from a kiss under the mistletoe
    Cupid’s arrow will somehow find you though

    How does one recognize when true love arrives?
    Something that lasts, something that thrives?
    Your heart will follow them in everyway
    Like a sunflower tracking the sun all day

    Is true love uncontrollably wild or is it quiet and tame?
    Will it provide me with solitude or drive me insane?
    Some days will be as frantic as a hot potato game
    Other days by comparison will seem rather lame

    Will true love forever be on a trajectory to the sky?
    Will the fire always burn hot and flames shoot high?
    You’ll find the relationship progresses and retreats often
    Advancing like the inchworm who arches and straightens

    How does one keep true love from entering a slumber?
    The longevity of a fire is proportional to its embers
    When the flaming fire burns out, the embers still remain
    Providing foundation, the embers of true love are the same

    Reply

  702. I predict a chuckle

    Another word for jade is yu.
    It comes in handy when playing Scrabble.
    You might see a panther in the zoo.
    A red flag was carried to warn any rabble
    Of a steam train’s passage midst smoke and oil.
    That’s recorded in obsidian black and white as snow.
    Angel-like alpine flowers don’t need rich soil
    To make them germinate and grow.

    (Pity about the punctuation mark between snow and angel!)

    Reply

  704. Low Risk Predictions

    I predict an abundant harvest from the rich soil
    the kind that rewards us for our immense toil

    I predict the children will produce a snow angel
    high in the alpine mountains where the snow fell

    I predict a night as black as an obsidian panther
    to be followed by a glorious day filled with laughter

    I predict the value of jade will not fade with time
    just like the value of life increases by design

    I predict that taunting a bull with a little red flag
    while running in the streets is no reason to brag

    Some choose to make their predictions wild and bold
    but my predictions seem simple and safe so I’m told

    Reply

  705. Just had to try again! 🙂

    Like an obsidian sheet
    beneath the fallen snow

    Angel says, “I predict
    a great harvest

    from this rich soil
    of souls.”

    Reply

  708. Pilgrimage of Love and Life

    Our pilgrimage began years ago in our own neighborhood
    Little did we know that our next stop would be Hollywood
    It took forty-five years for these events to join together
    The wishing well at our wedding sealed our fate forever

    Weather interfered with many an ocean front adventure
    The aura of the mountains tends toward what we prefer
    A morning dewdrop on a flower in the hills of Tuscany
    Can be more inspiring than the craftsmanship of many

    The coastal towns of the Cinque Terre were visited in the rain
    We’d love to view their hues of yellow, blue, and antique rose again
    Driving up from Pula an accordion festival took us by surprise
    Then ascending to a mountaintop in Lienz really opened our eyes

    Ancient henges and clear streams we’ve seen on our way
    Steep cliffs, fairy gardens, and rope bridges that sway
    Giant’s causeway, crumbling castles, and a quiet dinner for two
    It’s all part of our journey, discovering and awakening anew

    Our long bucket list contains Spain, Niagara Falls, and the Grand Canyon
    While New York at Christmas and a foggy harbor in Maine both have been stricken
    Although it might appear we’ve taken many wonderful but separate trips
    It’s really a single pilgrimage of love and life ingrained in our relationship

    Reply

  711. I think I used them all!

    Places of pilgrimage

    In Derbyshire well-dressing
    Has nothing to do with dressing well.
    Arrangements of spring flowers are
    Not like an antique rose on a wishing well.

    It is far from the foggy harbour
    Where the lights have an aura –
    Red and green for port and starboard –
    Colours echoed in much flora.

    The spray of roaring waters
    Of Niagara Falls on a border
    Splits the light (as a dewdrop might)
    Into rainbow colours in their order.

    Tourists like to visit
    Well-publicised landlocked inland
    Places like the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon
    Or the colder climes of Norway and Finland.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I’m not entirely convinced that this week’s theme was a completely random draw of the cards.

      Reply

      • Okay, to be completely honest, I randomly pick these 4 weeks at a time, meaning I pick a set, take a picture, out them in the used pile, them pick another set and so on. Of the 4 sets I picked last week, this might not have been the first, but the words with the prompt were definitely random.

  717. We’re All In This Together

    From out left field, the virus it struck
    Not a normal flu season, it reeks of bad luck
    It’s not a question of who, what, or whether
    The simple fact is we’re all in this together

    All sports put on hold, even the ones we hold dear
    There will be no gold medals at the Olympics this year
    Players, coaches, and fans must all take a breather
    Sport shows are now reruns, we’re all in this together

    “Shelter in place” and “social distancing” the new phrases
    Unemployment websites are trickier than corn mazes
    The boredom strikes many like endless bad weather
    Don’t blame your housemate, we’re all in this together

    The fear can be real but try as you might
    Sleep tight in your nest to get through the night
    The burden now heavy will soon seem like a feather
    Stay calm and have patience, we’re all in this together

    When the lockdown is lifted, we can all start anew
    Like a moonstone new beginnings will come into view
    We’ll pop the champagne and celebrate with fervor
    Emerging much stronger because we’re all in this together

    Reply

  718. A serious subject needing a serious reply!
    Lockdown

    Now is the time
    To give mixing a rest
    Every household
    Becoming like a nest
    Where books may be
    Reread at leisure.
    Wilkie Collins’ The Moonstone
    Might bring new pleasure
    As we spare a thought
    For workers day and night
    Who keep us safe and well.
    A gold medal should be their right
    Not just a handclap.
    Foretell the ending if you are able,
    And look forward to friends
    Eating round your table.

    Reply

  720. Thought I would give this a try; Thanks for the inspiration,

    A long time ago; Easter morning, imagine the First
    How bright IN YOUR EYES was that joyful SUNBURST
    Jesus Christ rising from what many believed dead
    Guards dropped their weapons of IRON and fled
    That giant stone melted as if a SANDCASTLE
    The Divine Power of God winning the battle!

    Reply

  728. Interesting challenge. I have strung the words (or most of them) together. I think it should have the title: Unpredictable.

    If nuts and bolts weren’t made of iron
    They could be made of steel.
    It might prevent them showing rust.
    We could eat a tasty meal
    Of sweet ‘n’ sour chicken, rice and peas.
    It would be our good luck
    To spend the morning on our knees
    Building a sand-castle with flags stuck
    On the turrets. We’d be tickled pink
    In our sun-hats and shades.
    ‘Mind the sunburst and sand blowing in your eyes.
    ‘How deep your father wades!’

    Reply

  730. Giving it another try! :).

    I see a sunburst
    of emotions
    in your eyes

    as we work through
    the nuts and bolts
    of each situation

    iron sharpening iron.

    Reply

  731. Linda, I never read yours until after I have completed mine, but I’m surprised at the degree of our commonality today.

    Reply

  732. Fortune Cookies

    Using chopsticks will make you appear wise
    As long as you don’t stick them in your eyes

    When eating the sweet ‘n’ sour pork
    Amateurs would be wise to use a fork

    Projecting a cold frown is beyond the worst
    While your smile is like a pleasant sunburst

    Nuts and bolts are necessary for building machines
    But they won’t do much for your hopes and dreams

    You might have the strength of iron and steel
    But you are not invincible when behind the wheel

    A good friend can take away your pain
    Like a sand castle dissolving in the rain

    I’m tickled pink to deliver your fortune
    Your self-quarantine should end by June

    Don’t make a bet and don’t call your bookie
    I cannot tell your fortune for I am just a cookie

    Reply

  737. Great post, Linda. I prayed a long time ago that the Lord wouldn’t ever let me become complacent. I think one way that happens is to stop reading God’s Word or to read it less often. I love how He shows us new things all the time when we continue to read faithfully. I also love that He is faithful to complete the work He’s begun in us. Growing is evidence of the two-way love relationship with Him.

    Reply

    • It is a wonderful relationship we have with the Lord. I’ve had times of feeling distant from Him and stagnant. It is definitely when I’ve been away from staying in the Word.

      Reply

  740. Circle of Life in the Woods

    The tiny little acorn grows into a mighty oak tree
    Then lighting starts a fire as far as the eye can see
    Its golden leaves that once beautifully beckoned
    Are now covered by smoke and ash I’d reckon

    A wildfire can make the woods seem dormant
    And winter months can deliver similar torment
    Whether life is interrupted by event or season
    The effect is often temporary it stands to reason

    Then life starts anew like a breath of fresh air
    Green shoots and forget-me-nots soon do appear
    The big news arrives atop a shiny silver spoon
    The damage now gone and not a moment too soon

    Reply

  741. Good tips Linda. I still am working. I care for the elderly in their homes. My husband is not. One thing I am doing is writing a poem a day for a FB page for women supporting women. It wasn’t planned. I wrote one poem, and every morning God gives me another. I will write as long as he gives it. I guess that is a new habit.

    Reply

    • That’s an awesome habit. Listening to what God gives us to write is always a blessing. I’ll be praying protection for you and your elderly charges during this time.

      Reply

  753. Heartbreak Hurts

    Painful as a thistle stuck in your throat
    My lover told me I no longer float her boat
    The tree house I built her with so much flare
    Went up in flames, she no longer cares
    Like a slow moving glacier destroys all in its path
    My life is in shambles from this surprise bloodbath

    My response was stuck on the tip of my tongue
    Unable to speak I just remained stunned
    My emotions now demolished, I am in defeat
    Like a summer squash smashed all over the street
    Yes, out of the blue she has broken my heart
    With my sunshine gone, guess I’ll try a fresh start

    Reply

  754. I so needed to read this today, Linda 💝 thank you for sharing this gem of a poem with us 🙂

    Reply

  760. My favorite is Psalm 150, because I am a musician. Or more likely, I am a musician because this is my favorite Psalm! Thank you for sharing yours, and for the hope and encouragement you always share! God bless you!

    Reply

  764. The shortest verse in the bible, right? A man who is turned to tears. It tells the world it is alright for all, for every person, to shed a tear. And how many tears are being shed as the world is thrust into the pandemic….and people are learning there is a blessing to quietude and solace and living within our means in our own homes.

    Reply

  767. Mistakes Are Plentiful

    Yogi Bear stealing a picnic basket in the park
    Noah ignoring the request to build an arc

    Dorothy not knowing about ruby slippers
    Letting the sharks get to poor little Flipper

    Planning a celebration without pizzazz
    The music world without soft jazz

    Rolling Sisyphus’s boulder uphill
    Allowing the revenuers to find the still

    Believing the Milky Way is the whole universe
    Thinking that things can never get worse

    Swimming alone at the water filled quarry
    Not listening with earnest to the entire story

    Letting the old barn fall into decay
    Acquiring goods without making pay

    Of the things here mentioned do not partake
    Because each and every one is a big mistake

    Reply

  768. I see your posts i my reader, Linda. This one caught my imagination. Here’s my attempt:

    Moon-gazing

    We climbed in the twilight
    To the old barn with its skylight,
    Carrying our picnic basket packed
    With the food we had stacked
    For a rainy day.
    Our chocolate bars
    Were all of ‘Mars’
    And none of ‘Milky Way’.
    Our faux pas was that
    The glass wasn’t flat.
    Our view of Copernicus
    Was out of focus!

    Reply

  769. Brilliant:

    “You and I wouldn’t, at all stages, think it wise to tell a pupil exactly what we thought of his quality. It is much more important that he should know what to do next.”

    Reply

  774. I often say less is more! This is one of those situations. Like a great crescendo that builds to a climax and then subsides in total exhaustion!

    Reply

  778. I have used those two words “Jesus wept” in a half dozen poems; two of the most significant words there are. Thanks.

    Reply

  780. I was thinking the other day about a line in the 23rd Psalm, “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures” and am planning on a poem or essay around the symbolism of it.

    Reply

  782. I love this Linda. Satan still accuses us, people still accuse us, and we fall into the trap of accusing ourselves for what He paid for! Jesus told the woman caught in adultery. “Go and sin no more”. Even if we do, (and of course we do) we have an advocate with the Father because He has paid for ALL sin!
    Thank you for sharing this.

    Reply

  784. What The World Needs

    The Cheshire cat will not appear on a full moon
    A trip to the dentist will not end too soon
    Rubbing the genie lamp will not grant your wish
    Sitting and hoping will not fill the dinner dish
    What the world needs is less “will nots”
    Start thinking positive and connect the dots

    If your cotton candy is sticky then jump in the pool
    A rock is just a rock but can make a great tool
    Don’t let a new dandelion create any hysteria
    The new arboretum has a wonderful wisteria
    What the world needs are positive thoughts
    Try eliminating the negatives and give it a shot

    Reply

  789. Love help us go beyond & do extraordinary things we never thought. Is possible . It goes beyond our wants or fears so we can truly manifest true love to people around us. Inspiring read. Thanks.

    Reply

  794. Just Another Degree of Separation

    I know a guy who knows a guy
    You better reach out before your well runs dry
    We’re all part of the contact nation
    Just another degree of separation

    In the dark to daylight is just a matter of degree
    And clouds add separation, wouldn’t you agree
    A switch or Mother Nature can make this conversion
    Just another degree of separation

    Strong wind or tornado, the distinction is not so neat
    Between water and ice, the difference is heat
    Yes, the environment around us contains variations
    Just another degree of separation

    An olive branch and strawberry are on the savanna
    Knock knock, orange you glad, I didn’t say banana
    Even food types can be part of this conversation
    Just another degree of separation

    From Earth to the moon, man passed that test
    The red planet is on deck for the next conquest
    The outer planets will provide further migration
    Just another degree of separation

    Reply

  796. Yes He died, not diet. Love this! I too feel like I have given up a lot, not just given up but lost a lot. Things taken away from me. I never quite understood Lent and still have questions about it’s biblical premise. Forty days in the wilderness was not right before the crucifixion. Anyways, I do think it a good time to reflect upon the cross, but isn’t every day a good time? And should we all out sin before we dive into sin before we dive into remorse?
    I do love your poem!

    Reply

  799. I LOVE this. It reminds me a bit of Ted Kooser’s poetry, who is a personal favorite. It manages to capture something profound simply by observing a “common” moment in daily life.

    Reply

  808. In your 44-word quadrille, you’ve not only captured a moment from your and your mother’s lives, Linda, you’ve also sketched a poignant portrait of your mother.

    Reply

  809. Confronting a Parallel Universe

    A parallel universe would be something to behold
    Exploring alternate possibilities would never grow old
    One might at first show reluctance to venture about
    As every day you are confronted with a brand new route
    Where sour grapes are turned into luscious pinot noir
    And bright colored marigold fields abound near and far
    A universe paralleling ours may seem quite radical
    Although a pink pearl from sand can be just as magical

    But what of our loved ones, will they be there too
    Or will we be forced to start over and find someone new
    My current life, loves, and relationships I hope will stay
    In this universe, bad days and nightmares are kept at bay
    Love and happiness is really all that I’m after
    I have all that now so that is my answer
    Intriguing as it seems, a parallel universe I do not seek
    Because my life in this one, is the one I shall keep

    Reply

  812. For My Valentine
    Valentine’s Day arrived right on cue
    Each passing year our love sparks anew
    Reading our tea leaves always comes natural
    Our minds act as one, avoiding any spectacle
    Togetherness provides us our special love potion
    While distance between us creates a different emotion
    Inhaling each other’s love with a passion that will not stop
    Like devouring a sundae, with a maraschino cherry on top
    With the tenacity of quicksand your love pulls me in
    Given the opportunity, yes, I would do it all again
    Restaurants, mountain tops, or parks to go play
    Are among the places to visit on this special day
    So, I asked My Valentine where we should go
    To which she replied, “there’s no place like home”
    With this acknowledgement now bestowed
    I’ll love you forever, this I do know

    Reply

  821. Word Spice
    Spontaneous combustion are just two words
    And the thoughts they provoke are beyond absurd
    Either one alone can provide you an angle
    But together they’re better as it takes two to tango
    Playing leapfrog with words is like playing with fire
    It’s easy to get burnt or strung up on a wire
    Placing them in order often makes more sense
    But that can be as boring as sitting on a fence
    Words can look dull when they are far, far away
    But adding hot sauce to words can spice up your day

    Reply

  822. A Navigator’s Ode

    Clear skies were welcomed by ancient mariners
    Dodging rocks in and around the sea foam corridors
    The sextant being the instrument of the day
    Provided challenges to sailors finding their way
    Visions of the Pearly Gates provided some fright
    Although a blood orange sky was a delightful sight
    Vehicles advanced and instruments did too
    But the laws of navigation remain tried and true
    The stepping stones of science charted the course
    As trains, planes, and automobiles replaced the horse
    Aviation and space are the challenges today
    And satellite GPS helps us from going astray
    As a navigator myself, I subscribe to this ode
    And once again I long to be back on the road

    Reply

    • Thank you. This is one of those that came to me when I wasn’t really trying to write. I had to make a note to self to remember the idea for later when I had time to actually write.

      Reply

    • Thanks for sharing. I edited your comment because an extra character before the URL made it not be linked. Now others can get to your beautiful paint chip poem today.

      Reply

  825. I really like your poem and this week’s words! Also, even though I have only posted my response once or twice, I do get inspired by these prompts. Most of my poems stay in my physical notebook. 🙂

    Reply

  835. “Listen to courage.” I love that, because we need courage right now. (And some justice would be nice!) Your poem reminds me of a Ted talk I watched today by Valerie Kaur about revolutionary love in a time of rage.

    Reply

    • I’m glad you liked it. The first draft that line was slightly different, but I like the way it ended up. I’ll have to look up that TedTalk. It sounds interesting.

      Reply

  838. Wise words, Linda, and a powerful quadrille. The repetition of the word ‘fear’ emphasises the message. I like the way you separated the final lines to make them stand out.

    Reply

  848. That’s such a great idea for a prompt! I love the poem, there’s a wistfulness to it. Even if the details are different, I guess we all have a memory of somewhere where we felt comfortable.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I couldn’t help buying the Paint Chip Poetry game and I had to do something with it. This seemed like a good use. My goal is to keep up the weekly prompts all year.

      Reply

  849. This is absolutely lovely! Especially like; “Bougainvillea flanked the kitchen door with a promise of perfume unfulfilled.” 🙂

    Reply

  852. It was good while it lasted

    This dirt road takes me far from the city
    Left behind is my self-doubt and pity
    Through twist and turn my travels unfold
    With rose-colored glasses the tales are told
    Around the bend that always haunts me
    Is the open meadow that beckons softly
    The sun through the trees creates a halo effect
    Then comes a tug of reality that I must respect
    From my slumber I have now retracted
    But my dream it was good, while it lasted

    Reply

  857. Ah, Linda, my cat Mojo is the same, whereas Luna, the older one, is an adept huntress! You’ve captured the sounds and the stance well in quadrille and photo.

    Reply

  864. Aww that window that barrier boo to one side horaah to the other side. Thats life
    Happy Monday Linda
    Much✏love

    Reply

  866. Ah, we have one of those flustered felines living with us, but it’s a visiting feral black cat who drives him to distraction. His yowls are hair-raising!

    Reply

  868. Our old Tom was an outside cat, and a bird killer, leaving their corpses on our porch. He even manage to kill a crow.

    Reply

  873. School Days
    Monday morning starts with the blues
    Then the dappled sunlight improves the hues
    History is just bittersweet chronicles of the past
    While math hits the bulls-eye, making it a blast
    I guess you can tell what I enjoy most
    And when the final bell rings, school becomes a ghost

    Reply

  874. Ok, Linda, after reading your poem and considering this fun prompt , I made an attempt:

    As rare as grace in The Scarlet Letter
    or strong as faith size of mustard seed
    as kleenex makes clown nose feel better
    or dust bunny hides until it is freed
    (would octopus lend a hand in need?)
    To wish for luck after frost is over
    surprised to find TWO four-leaf clover!

    Once I really did discover two four-leaf clover…guess I’m a seeker (for fun, not luck)!

    Reply

  876. Oh this is absolutely lovely, Linda! 💝 I especially love; “I wish I knew what a mustard seed cost
    Before the crop failed because of frost.”

    Reply

  883. This made me smile!!!! At 65, I finally took swimming lessons! I must confess, I still have not mastered the breathing that is required in the “crawl” stroke as I always get water up my nose and can go only about 6 strokes. But I mastered the back float and can go across and entire pool that way….and sometimes, I can do the breast stroke quite well too. I rarely have occasion to swim….but now I know I can! So hurrah to you and me! 🙂

    Reply

    • Hurrah indeed! I’m not a great swimmer, but with a floatation belt I find snorkeling so relaxing. It is good to know how to swim and I’m so glad you took the plunge and learned. You’re never too old to learn something new (not that I’m suggesting 65 is old, but neither one of us is young in body any more, though surely young at heart.)

      Reply

  889. I wish my clown nose would make a loud beep
    As I drive to town in my mustard seed Jeep
    The frost on the road will make me slow down
    But the four-leaf clover will remove my frown

    Reply

  897. Hello Linda – I just read your poem: “God With Us – A Simple Poem” and wondered if I could have your permission to use it in our school Christmas program? Our theme is “We Worship You, Emmanuel”, and it would be very suitable.

    Reply

    • Hi Gail, Thank you for asking. Yes, you may have permission so long as you give me credit as the author. Also, if there is a printed program I would appreciate if you would mail me a copy of the program as I like to keep copies of places my poems have been reprinted. You can email me at lindalk48@gmail.com and I will send you my mailing address.

      Reply

  898. I didn’t see this first time round. It’s rather lovely. It’s a good message for all of us – there’s plenty of good stuff to go round, we can relax a liittle. I’d love to see a hummingbird in the wild.

    Reply

  903. This is so piercingly tender and true:

    “bleed tears
    of understanding helping others
    feel not so alone.”

    And who we are is a gift, a light into the world of the healing and strength, a gift, showing to the world, and others coming after that survival, and even some degree of healing is a revolutionary act. So good. Thank you. This poem is more than 30 lines, so it would not be a candidate, but I am sure you would be strong voice for Sarah’s poetry call for a publication and display on womens voices in poetry. I don’t know if you saw this from her, but I think you would fit right in.

    https://fmmewritespoems.wordpress.com/2019/07/29/poetry-call/

    Reply

  905. I appreciate the perspective you have expressed here in such an open and moving write but also this is extremely insightful. Thank you for sharing this, Linda.

    Reply

  908. Loved the poem…based on your previous response, I am using this in our bulletin this week as well, with credit given. Thank you.
    Pastor Bill Crow
    First Southern Baptist Church
    500 Arizona St.
    Bisbee, AZ 85603

    Reply

  911. I can so relate to comparing my problems with someone else’s and thinking that I shouldn’t be having so much trouble because so-and-so is going through worse. I like the point you make about the variety of people’s talents, too.

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  912. I think the dizain lends itself to being split in half, but you change pace at the end of the 4th line, which throws it a little off balance. For me that emphasises the initial questioning and confusion, and then the ending brings resolution.

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  915. Interesting imagery — I could see it as a beginning of a story. For in itself, it leaves nothing but questions of what you are getting at.

    Reply

  917. Love that stone cold liar attribution. I don’t think, as a SoCal native myself, I could survive without the sun. It’s so true how the weather affects us. Nice to “see” you Linda.

    Reply

    • It’s nice to be back, at least a bit, at dVerse. I think we’ve had this conversation before, but I tend not to participate and link if I don’t have time to read at least some of the other poems. Lately there’s not been that time.

      Reply

  919. Very nice comparison between the “honest sun” and the “stone cold liar” version. I hadn’t thought of the sun being like that before.

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  922. I watched about half of the video. You have got to be kidding, it’s a wonder that your husband is still alive. If that had of been me driving, my wife would have killed me. Duly noted, I’ll be avoiding that trip for sure. Thanks for sharing! Blessings!

    Reply

  923. He is aware of the sparrows and the hummingbirds and hopefully also the poets, sweet abundance.
    The repetitive rhyming cycles like flitting and filling on nectar.

    Reply

  927. For me, once I knew I was going to write fiction, I quickly explained to the Lord, I had no clue on how to do it. I sought the Lord and felt He said, “Read mysteries.” Then, I went to the library and started with mysteries beginning with the letter A. I would bring ten novels at a time. If the book didn’t catch my interest in the first thirty pages, I went to the next one. After about three hundred mysteries and reading all of Michael Connelly’s books, a revelation dawned on me: novels move from scene to scene. Write everything that needs to be read about one scene and move on to the next one.

    The one good piece of advice I received from Writer’s Digest and other books about writing – all of which I hate reading – was to take a book from your favorite novelist and use it as your teacher. Discover what the author did and copy it. Thus, Michael Connelly became my teacher. Thanks Michael!

    Reply

    • That’s what I did with memoir. But I’ve always read dystopian literature and love it. And I should have mentioned in this post that you were the first warning sign that this detour might be coming. 😉

      Reply

  929. Linda,
    I wrote for that prompt too. I said it was my first fiction piece. Really, it may have been my second, but the first was fiction so laced with truth, so it was kind of a”what if” scenario. I think fiction can make one think about truth, maybe a back door. I think you and I so love the Lord, we are sometimes too aggressive in our presentation. Don’t get me wrong, there are times to be blatantly conspicuous! Then other times, truth can be hidden. Parables and allegories are examples. Poetry is full of metaphors and not until I wrote poetry did I notice many metaphors in scripture.
    It is a learning curve for me. I am learning how to write. We want our words to draw people to the truth, not blind them with it all the time.
    Perhaps we will both be venturing out into this new area. Blessings to you!

    Reply

    • I find poetry has been a great way to share truth of the Gospel without it being a sledge hammer. I suspect fiction will be as well. I will need God’s help for sure to venture into fiction, especially a speculative fiction novel. It’s a learning curve for sure.

      I also think I need to get back to reading more blogs, especially yours and a few others that I’ve neglected too much. There are never enough hours in the day. But I so appreciate you reading mine and commenting on it. It encourages me, and I know God would like me to be an encouragement to others.

      Reply

  930. Linda,
    I loved your poem. Beautiful. And…sometimes it is good to be still for a while and listen. Good for you taking time to explore and wonder. Whatever you do, it will be delightful!

    Reply

  932. I’m with you in having trouble writing fiction, but liking to read it. I really liked reading how you got to where you are right now . . . coming up with a fictional story! We shall see, eh?

    Reply

  937. I admire her strength. I held my breath hoping it would go this way. Yes, editing and cutting our words is a GREAT exercise. I kept counting and then googled “word count” and found a site that I could cut and paste and have them count my words for me. Saved a lot of time.

    Reply

    • WordPress shows a word count. But then I added the info about the prompt and had to copy and paste into Word when I wanted to change the end.

      I’m glad it ended like it did too. I wasn’t sure when I started.

      Reply

    • Thanks. I had to cut some words earlier to fit them in. I think I’m going to like the Prosery prompts because it is a great exercise in editing to make every word count.

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  943. I went off to the University of Illinois with my Johnny Cash albums and a few others. It wasn’t long before my new dorm friends had a field day making fun of Cash and me. Even though I was a small town, farm grown boy, I played Johnny’s songs often and loud enough for all to hear. It was a hoot. So yes, I loved the “Man in Black.”

    Reply

    • I have more Cash albums on my iPod than any other artist, and anyone who doesn’t at least respect him (even if they don’t care for that kind of music) can’t be a friend of mine.

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  944. Crying as I read this . Thank you, Linda. This is a life changing revelation of the truth. God bless you as He continues to pour out His love through you.

    Reply

  945. I produced a couple of free pro life film ptojects to share with you. One is principally about rape conception.
    Downsyndrome.love and Conceivedinrape.com the latter has had 5 million views on secular Documentary channels. For the background of how God inspired the projects scroll down on the link I supplied (On the Reformed Expressions site below) to my story “Incapacitating Love” and for the Down syndrome project click on my profile picture and accompanying story. (Kevin Williams Facebook Loveland Colo.) God bless you for being a passionate voice for life. Fight as though the lives of your children and theirs after them and our nation depend on it. I believe they DO.

    http://reformedexpressions.com/kevin-williams

    Reply

  948. Thank you for sharing this! Thank you for your voice! Thank you for telling the truth! This is what should go viral! I am sorry you had to endure that pain, but am so thankful for the redemption you have found because of it. We need to keep exposing the lies!

    Reply

  952. You can’t take it with you……………so so true. And I also think there are riches that are beyond counting in coins….and those are to be enjoyed the most while here on earth.

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  959. Ah yes, this is one thing many individuals fail to comprehend.. only our actions will take us there .. no amount of fame, riches and connections will matter. Beautifully penned 🙂

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  961. Peter added another glimpse when he wrote: “Jesus indeed was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you” (1 Peter 1:20)

    I love your revelation about the half shekel.

    Thanks.

    Reply

    • A number of years ago, I was reading the story in Luke 24 where it says, “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.” I stopped and prayed that God would show me wherever Jesus was when I read the OT. This verse in Exodus is one of those verses where Jesus then became so clear to me. God is faithful to answer prayers such as these.

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  968. What a lovely surprise for your brother’s seventieth, Linda! I like the gift of petrified wood and the framed picture is delightful.

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  970. Oh my….thank you for bringing me into this wonderful family celebration! And what an amazing gift to regift him…I’m certain he was very touched when he saw it!

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  973. A lovely write Linda, really looking forward to Summer now! 🌞

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  974. What a lovely surprise. This radiates love and affection. I laughed at the petrified wood older than your brother. 🙂 I hope he’s still doing well.

    Reply

  980. a wonderful testimony of sibling love and friendship, i was so touched by every detail in your haibun, especially the gift you picked for your brother.

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  982. My wife’s cousin lives near San Francisco. We live in WA state, 800 miles from him. His immediate family threw him a 55th birthday picnic in a local park. We drove down over weekend, surprised him, stayed 3 hours and headed home; what joy.

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  985. I love the family feeling of your picnic. As we grow older, family becomes more and more important. I love the petrified wood gift, by the way! At 85, I wonder what my children might bring for me!!

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  1005. I look forward to those summer days of barbeque and outdoors fun. A lovely lai nouveau – the first I have read in the poetry trail. Thanks for joining in.

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  1007. I can definitely relate to this. I heard the same things as a child. I don’t have a doctor who gets it. But I have a husband who does. 🙂 I wish you peace and blessings, and less pain!

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  1017. I spent this morning finding on You Tube the old, traditional Easter hymns, and listening to them with pleasure.. I miss them so in the modern church services. Beautiful poem.

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  1023. I hoped you would touch on Easter’s true meaning; and you don’t disappoint. I went to the other end of the spectrum, finding humor in the phrase.

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  1026. Your poem reminded me of that Japanese (I think?) story about fixing broken ceramics with gold; the cracks and lessons -it would make them look like life’s masterpiece.

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  1027. The rhyme works here and doesn’t feel like it takes anything away from the message. I especially like the imagery of a broken, yet “remastered” jar of clay filled with love.

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  1034. A nice use of metaphor here. I like the whole, but cracked. It’s a good reminder about a lot of things–relationships, bodies, as well as souls.

    Reply

    • True. Broken things, and people, are never restored to their original pristine state. But that doesn’t preclude being useful even with the cracks and scars.

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    • Thank you. I had to turn the light back on to write down the first two stanzas the other night because they were keeping me awake. 🙂 Definitely a God-inspired poem.

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  1040. As a metaphor for marriage or Christ consciousness, this piece works well. Like Bjorn mentioned, a mended relationship is sacred.

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  1052. Ah, Linda, you maintain the metre and rhyme so well, it’s beautifully to see. I’ve been following you for a while now, and it feels like you are growing in hope and strength all the time.

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  1055. I believe in the power of prayers. I specially like this part:

    Prayer silently offers dust-tongued intercession for desperate tragedy

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  1058. Flawless use of the poem for both prompts. I love me some list poems. You weaved in the compound words seamlessly, and they became natural extensions of your message.

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  1059. You’ve used repetition and compound words to great effect in this prayer-poem, Linda. I especially like the lines:
    ‘Prayer flies heaven-circling like hawk swirling on a thermal wave’
    and
    ‘Prayer drowns tear-culled pain finding hope in the smile of a child’.

    Reply

  1060. I like the format of your poem. This line really got to me: “Prayer silently offers dust-tongued intercession for desperate tragedy”

    Reply

  1061. Beautiful lines to prayer – like rosary beads – your poem reminds me of the beatitudes – great use of the word compounds especially loved
    “Prayer floats water-spoken currents of faith in the Creator”

    Reply

  1062. I love this prediction poem, with its truth and humor. And I wish you the best with your memoir submissions! I have experienced healing from your poetry, and I deeply admire you for telling your story. Thank you, and many blessings!

    Reply

  1063. I Predict that however it goes will be God’s perfect plan and that you will have perfect peace. I am starting a book and finding out rather quickly that what we write is more for us than for others, even though it is for all.

    Reply

  1064. One of my favorite stories about an author being rejected is James Lee Burke. He had a book, The “Lost Get-Back Boogie,” rejected 111 times over a nine-year period. Eventually, a publisher accepted it and it was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. To date, he has sold millions of books and won numerous awards.

    When he was asked how he handled the rejection, he replied, “I kept on writing.”

    Reply

  1067. Awesome.

    Although He was not the King they expected, He fulfilled all of the prophecies spoken in the Old Testament for the Messiah first coming. Now, He will soon fulfill His second coming.

    Reply

  1071. If I ever tried to write a nonet, Jesus will probably return and three hundred years will have passed in His Millennium reign before I finished it. I’ll leave these things to you.

    Reply

  1089. Oh, this stanza:

    “And yet if things were different
    If I’d taken a different path
    Would I have a compassionate bent
    in suffering’s aftermath?”

    I am so sorry about your suffering, and about your baby.

    Reply

  1090. Thanks for writing these poems this month and sharing them with us. I just feel like God is working in them. Like a poetry chapbook companion to your memoir. :). And this poem reminded me of the “all things working for good” verse.

    Reply

  1092. A raw honest account of a traumatic event. The sun still shining at the end leaves one with a sense of loneliness. It is in stark contrast to the pain of the verse.

    Reply

  1093. A powerful, personal share. Thanks for sharing the voice that you found and I’m so glad you found it. The sun, the hope, the faith are always the constant.

    Reply

    • The manuscript is done, having been edited by a professional developmental editor. My husband has read it and I’m ready to start sending it to publishers. I sent my first submission last Friday and have 6 more publishers I’ve identified. I considered self-publishing, but had no peace. I don’t think that’s what God has planned. Thanks for asking.

      You know, when it’s done, I’m hoping you’ll be on my launch team to get the word out. 🙂

      Reply

  1101. The loss of innocence was more tragic than the deflowering; but even worse when rape is the delivery system, and both are lost.

    Reply

  1102. Yes I could write sad all day too, but I like to season them with hope. I hate to leave people in sadness when Christ offers hope. Your poem is sad, and tender, and yes the sun is still shining!

    Reply

  1114. I’m with hubby. Some modern hymns seem to be just one phrase repeated over and over and over ad infinitum. I long for the hymn of old!

    Reply

  1125. Oh I’m so glad you paid tribute to those amazing little creatures, though I had no idea they could be so territorial. I like the rhyme you infused with all that zipping and sipping.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I don’t know if all varieties are so territorial. I’ve seen video of numerous hummingbird feeding at the same feeder. Maybe it’s a winter survival thing.

      Reply

    • Their wings can buzz pretty loudly. They also make a cute chirping noise I never realized until my husband started keeping up with the feeders and we got more hanging out in our yard.

      Reply

  1134. I would love to see humming birds at a feeder. Our birds are a lot drabber, but I get great pleasure from watching them. You really capture the personality of this little chap. Even though you don’t use them as line ends, all those “-ip” words add a lot of zing and movement.

    Reply

  1136. Love the ‘p’ sounds in this (sip, rippling, zip, interloper). Brings to mind that little squirt of nectar that they spit and drip as they leave the feeder.

    Reply

  1143. It’s always good to “see” your posts and I’ll definitely add you to my prayer list Linda. Do keep us updated! Grace and blessings!

    Reply

  1144. Interesting application of the theme. Sometimes I deliberately repeat a word, especially in two adjoining lines, for emphasis, and often in two different contexts. But as a rule, I suppose “variety is the spice of life.” 🙂

    Reply

  1146. Thank you for the chuckle with my morning coffee. I especially love your image choice. Something is afoot, a pied a terre, en pointe here.

    Reply

  1147. An interesting take on the prompt, Linda. I’ve loved my thesaurus since I received it as a Christmas present from my mother when I was at school. Your final lines are so true!

    Reply

  1149. absolutely clever poem here – and definitely a building blocks lesson! well done – and points noted and taken –
    loved the fresh perspective for this quadrille – it crosses over beyond just being a 44 snippet!

    Reply

  1155. Sometimes while reviewing older poetry, I’ll find favorite phrases and words that leap up like mushrooms after a rain.

    Reply

    • Some of my favorite poems have become pieces of prose in my memoir. One in particular, called A Betrayal of Roses, fit so perfectly in the scene I was writing. But then my editor said I repeated “roses” too many times for prose. Harumph.

      Reply

  1160. ““This word appears 44 times in this manuscript.” — very subtle, love it. I think we all live in Thesaurus.com, it was great to see that as your image.

    Reply

  1163. My favorite editor’s note to me: “It’s bad enough that you end so many sentences with a preposition, but when you ended this sentence with two prepositions, I wanted to bark all over your manuscript.”

    It helps to have a sense of humor and a thick skin if you’re a writer.

    Reply

    • Thankfully my editor’s critical feedback was balanced with the comments on language she found beautiful and “perfect!” Maybe not a perfect balance, but enough to help me make it through.

      By the way, I can’t wait for you to get to read it. I’m quite happy with how it’s shaping up.

      Reply

  1164. That’s a nifty take on the prompt … sometimes the easy-go-to word doesn’t really capture the raft of options out there .. if you can lay your hand too them!

    Reply

    • In poetry, and even in prose, I think repeated words can sometimes be good for emphasis. But there are limits, and I crossed those limits a lot in my memoir manuscript. 😉

      Reply

      • I agree. But in a short poem, unless for effect, repetition seems like laziness. There are certain innocuous words I use again and again… like filler words to flesh out meter…that I also have to cull out.

  1166. I might print this out and tag it to my wall. Fantastic use of the prompt by the way. I love that sudden change in the last line of the second stanza. Anger, anguish, torment, then love. It works beautifully.

    Reply

      • This brought up a memory – a teacher once told me never overuse a word, find another way to say what you mean. Change, Change and change..

        It has stuck with me many years later.

  1172. Your poem is a loving tribute to your dad, Linda. My mum and dad are both here with me in my study, not hanging but on my bookshelf in small frames. They watch me as I write.

    Reply

  1176. Oh my gawd Linda, you put tears in my eyes. So much we leave until it’s too late. I was an orphan who was lucky enough to be adopted by an amazing man. I loved him dearly. I made certain my children knew their father loved them. That was i,portsnt to me. I am so sorry your children never got to feel their grandfather’s hug. I have one grandchild, a grandson. He is 5-years-old, and my wife and I live with him and his parents, in a wonderful home his they provide. My health points to my not bring around too much longer, but I have willed myself to stay here as long as I can, to know my grandson, and for him to have tactile active memories of me. I hug him everyday, and look into his eyes when I tell him I love him. This was a very moving poem Linda, very moving!

    Reply

  1180. Yes, often we lament things unsaid, and we’re left full of words in our sorrow. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply

  1182. Linda, reading this poem, I felt like you were talking about my own dad. And yes, did he ever love to tease my cousins, along with my brother and I. Last November, marked the 20th anniversary of his death, where I was able to good-bye to him, before he is death. I know, within your and mine hearts, we keep our dads alive, to share with others.

    Reply

  1183. A lovely tribute to your father. Too many of us lost parents too soon; my mother died of cancer at 39. I get that sinking feeling of /too late/, yet your poetry fills some gaps.

    Reply

  1184. Wow, very poignant. My grandfather used to send me money in a card for my bday with a note that said “mad money.” I haven’t heard that expression in quite some time.

    Reply

  1185. Congratulations on the contributing author selection Linda! And great post, thank you so much for sharing. Grace and blessings.

    Reply

  1191. When I visited Israel, 5 inches of snow fell in Jerusalem (rare, but does happen!). Lovely Advent poem…I believe you could expand it 🙂 Your strong final stanza brings message home for us.

    Reply

    • Thanks! It’s good to know snow in Israel is at least possible. I do want to expand this for reposting in December, though the final stanza will remain in the last position.

      Reply

  1196. yes so true and love how your words carry that singular truth, doesn’t matter when he was born, but he is born and he did come and will again.

    Reply

  1197. You nailed it with the last stanza. Ironically, our Christmas myth includes St. Nick, who came from Germany. We mix snow and Christmas and the sands of Judeah quite liberally.

    Reply

  1206. it is so good to read about the tangible and also intangible beliefs, i am moved to write my won after reading this. it so reminds me of a glad song, being happy with everything we have been blessed with.

    Reply

    • I’m glad you liked that line and that I left it in. The teacher of the workshop I wrote it in said that line was “not surprising” and could be deleted. But I like it, so I left it in. 🙂

      Reply

  1209. Leave line 13 in… it’s true to what you believed at the time. We can sometimes be wrong in our beliefs! I believe this is a great list poem.

    Reply

  1212. I believe in the power of poetry, and I believe you had me at /rain drops on hot dirt roads/. This poem has a lot of sweep and verve, and its energy puts me in mind of Whitman.

    Reply

  1214. You’re wrong, of course – lots of us do want to read this poem. Great use of repetition – it comes out like a creed, and I love the mixture of the sublime and the mundane.

    Reply

  1242. I believe this pushes against the cardboard boundaries that pen our thinking in, refusing to admit both the ying and the yang, the upsides and the downsides, the straight-forwards and the conundrums of life.
    I gave you all the stars, but somehow the system shaved off half of one. I only believe in computers a little bit.

    Reply

  1246. Thanks so much, Linda. I heard a friend read this verse today . . .”Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13. Taking the hope in God offered in both these messages, yours and hers!

    Reply

  1247. kaykuala

    Life itself isn’t for the faint of heart.
    It’s impossible without hope. Thankfully,
    hope never dies. And God never
    leaves us alone.

    Well said, Linda! There is nothing like hope to prolong the desire to overcome. It will, as one is all the while accompanied and guided by Providence’s benevolent hands.One need not even be religiously inclined to believe in hope!

    Hank

    Reply

  1253. You’ve written the perfect riposte to my poem. Yes, we have to leave the harbour – but sometimes it’s good to rest a little. I love this, it has a 19th century feel to it.

    Reply

  1254. Love how you’ve turned the famous quotation with your own poetic interpretation! And also turned the idea of “safe harbor” on its head. Don’t wallow in the safe harbor….get out there and live!!! And your blog photo shows that. 🙂 Did you know that about 10 years ago I hang-glided off a mountain top over Rio? One of the most exhilerating and spiritual things I’ve ever done! Just run right off and sail!!!

    Reply

  1255. This adventurous spirit is vivacious — to get a feel of it, you have to leave the safety of the harbour after all. I like how you allude to the comfort we rely on that may hinder us from realizing our true grit and potential.
    -HA

    Reply

  1278. Love it, Linda! I’m not a coffee fanatic, er…lover! But it’s all too easy to let other things be our driving force. Glad you met with Kim and shared with us. (Wasn’t she amazing?!) Dawn Shipman

    Reply

  1290. I really like the opening image of “The warm earth
    beneath my feet trembles
    with knowledge” — I’m instantly barefoot and highly sensitive. I feel your heart.

    Reply

  1293. This is such an honest Quadrille, Linda, which speaks from the heart and soul. I love the lines:
    ‘Sometimes I forget Him
    Forget I am His beloved

    The earth never does’.

    Reply

  1301. Loving this……..”a pebble in your shoe” – those are the perfect words to express how sometimes our thoughts meander and end up in the truly mundane. And oh yes….sometimes we are simpatico with someone and share their thoughts.

    Reply

  1304. kaykuala

    Were you listening to my thoughts?
    I was just thinking that same thing!

    Among loved ones there may be such ‘silent relationships’ though difficult to grasps

    Hank

    Reply

  1305. oh! those purple and blue marks, almost like bruises… That is the wonder of words, seeing other people’s thoughts, and with poetry more intrinsically honestly than most other forms. Well, I do not think you are a hack, your poem really breathed truly honest to me with the stanza about the distractions… how the little things divert the exalted thoughts so often. And those darn pebbles in those shoes! Ooch! Nice touches.

    Reply

    • I think it happens most with people we are close to. You start to know how they think, to some extent, as have similar interests so it’s natural to be thinking the same things.

      Reply

  1312. I’m really glad you could use the prompt. I was surprised marigolds had such a negative meaning, I must admit. I like this poem very much. The last lines make me think that the writer is shaking free of something negative.

    Reply

  1314. Your poem is a story in motion. Flowers to illustrate the whole story! They say everything happens for a reason. Perhaps your florist did get it right afterall!

    Reply

  1315. in different cultures, marigolds are used to celebrate marriage – and so, of course, it all depends on where one sits …. kind of like in cultures where wearing white is traditional for death and funerals … so in the end, I suppose, apart from perhaps a “clashing of colours” – then maybe, it really is what we make of it?

    I really like how you’ve written this poem – and how you’ve managed to really capture the element of surprise at the “unwanted” discovery! And if all ends wells? Then a memory that now somehow, is part of the love story.

    Reply

    • Thanks. It took me many years to be “okay” with marigolds even in my yard. But now I love them, though I prefer the red and yellow to the orange variety. 😉

      Reply

      • LOL – I can understand, in some ways – people have a love/hate affair with marigolds for some reason, even if not because of something like you’ve poemed. But then, I suppose, this could be said of most plants/flowers anyhow. And well, they are good plants to have around, help keep certain pesky pests away. 🙂

  1319. You rocked the prompt, mastering the language of flowers sublimely. It seems that some of the gang did not participate in Kim’s challenge on Tuesday. I really enjoyed the dip into Victorian Romanticism.

    Reply

    • I’ve had a hard time participating lately because I haven’t had the time to also read other poems, and I’m not comfortable linking and not reading. But that prompt spoke to me. 🙂

      Reply

  1323. I too hope it was a florist’s mistake. Marigolds have so many different meanings depending on the country and culture – they often symbolise passion and creativity.

    Reply

  1325. I’m surprised to hear marigolds mean despair and grief. They’re great flowers for healing all sorts of inflammations. I too hope it was only a florist’s mistake.

    Reply

  1328. Thanks, Linda for this sure word of encouragement. Purging can be so painful, one would feel abandoned and forsaken. But its all in His plan! Thank you one more time.

    Reply

    • Yes, that’s so true. My routine was changed at the beginning of April and it affected my prayer time. It took me awhile to realize just what a bad idea it was to not immediately find an alternate time to speak to God about the things on my heart.

      Reply

  1343. What a beautiful statement about hope. No, it doesn’t depend upon us. I too, years ago, did the pills,, but thankGod I slept a very long time and woke up. Soon after I met the Lord) depression is such a real thing. Throughout the years since I have suffered, but knowing the Lord has helped tremendously. May people find hope in your words.

    Reply

  1346. Wow. Congratulations Linda! I’d love to hear it with the piano sheet music and your church choir, maybe you can record it so that we could hear? I’m delighted that you’re delighted! Well done!

    Reply

  1354. I love my little garden too, made (almost) maintenance free last year, and after (this) I potted some lavender plugs and the flowers are beginning to show their faces, dwarf fruit trees planted as bare roots are coming into leaf and birds are beginning to visit as spring finally comes, bringing with it the beauty of life, embracing the earth.
    Anna :o]

    Reply

    • Ours would be close to maintenance free, except for pulling the weeds and needing to deadhead certain flowers so they’ll bloom again. I love the latter task, the former not so much. Your garden sounds beautiful!

      Reply

      • It is Linda compared to what it was before its revamp. That said it was beautiful before as nature had taken it back in its fold, but in this, it had become dangerous for me and I fell quite a few times and mowing the lawn (just a little one) took me forever – so something had to be done.
        I have done a little de-weeding too as dandelions and brambles are determined to live. I still need to cut back the dead stuff on the mature lavender and pots need replenishing as winter-hardy plants proved not to be, proving how cold it was these past four months or so.
        But now I can look out of the French doors knowing I will never have to mow the lawn again as there is a neat patch of quality Astroturf which is indistinguishable from the real stuff, bar the ‘crunch’ when one walks on it.
        Ah, the growth of spring and summer will never daunt me again!
        Kind regards
        Anna :o]

  1359. Yes, indeed, some of the best walks are short and intense. Very beautifully conveyed and lovely flowers. Poor pup, allergies seem so common these days.

    Reply

    • I’m just glad we finally figured out what he was allergic to. I hated to pull all the daisies but it had to be done. Other beauties took their place.

      Reply

  1360. I agree with you, Linda, and love to walk around our garden, where there is always something new to discover. I love that your garden has traditional herbs and wildflowers, such as lavender,candytuft and feverfew – and that you have a cute dog to accompany you.
    ______________________

    Reply

  1363. Thank you Linda, the beauty of God’s love always comes across in your poems, from within your heart. Grace and blessings.

    Reply

    • I think some people mistakenly believe that to forgive means you are saying the one who hurt you wasn’t wrong. But if the transgression wasn’t wrong, there would be no need to forgive.

      Reply

  1368. That’s what a lot of people tend to do, hug grievances to their chests. I love that you have shared your learning and experience about gathering forgiveness – ;like miracle bread.

    Reply

  1372. Yep. Hold on to grievances and develop ulcers. Learn forgiveness and see heaven spreading… or, at the very least, the spreading of hot ashes! 🙂

    Reply

  1378. Nice! I like the format – I don’t think I’ve seen this kind of poem structure before.

    Reply

  1379. …and it tore from top to bottom — not the other way around. Nice Good Friday poem! A reminder to strip the altar until Sunday morning. (Happy Easter!)

    Reply

  1385. I actually got to smell the Nard perfume that Mary used on the feet of Jesus this past week at church and it is such a beautiful smell, it brought tears to my eyes because it almost felt like I was in that room. Beautiful poem Linda, thank you.

    Reply

    • I had resolved this Holy Week to make every poem about the events of the week. When I first saw the prompt, I didn’t think I’d be able to, but am thankful I was wrong. 🙂

      Reply

  1396. I really relate to this. Sometimes I actually dislike something I have written but share it anyway, and it turns out to be something that someone is very grateful to have read or heard.

    Reply

    • I’ve had that happen, too. I wrote this poem to myself because right now I’m struggling with getting something written that I know I need to write, but I don’t like the way it’s coming out.

      Reply

  1410. Not just scary… a history lesson of evil. (Speaking of evil: Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin?!? My heart begins fluttering at just the thought. 🙂 )

    Reply

  1411. I think you’re right about only when we are “gripped in grace” do we have eyes to see and ears to hear the discernment we need to resist the cunning, fallen ones.

    Reply

  1419. I remember many cozy campfires myself, as a child surrounded by singing family members. We don’t camp anymore, but the memories still warm my heart and make me smile. Thanks for reminding me. <3

    Reply

    • They seemed only interested in the fire, but it wasn’t long before we put out the fire and joined the dogs in the tent, leaving the spiders out in the cold. 😉

      Reply

  1442. Linda, really like the telling way you tackle the issue of having faith here and how transformative that process can be…

    Reply

  1444. This makes me extra hopeful! Thanks Linda! Aub often hears something but it sounds different to her. So she heard the phrase, “Hope springs eternal” , but later on was saying , “hope brings a turtle.” It took me a bit to figure that one out! 🙂

    Reply

  1445. I too like the reference of the battle of darkness and light in the Alice in Wonderland theme. Good for you to say goodbye to the darkness and embrace the light.

    Reply

  1449. Linda, my fat finger didn’t hit the 5 star rating spot, but that is what I was going for! :). So much to rejoice in , with Jesus!

    Reply

  1457. I believe the person who suffers most is the one who cannot let go, who cannot forgive. Jesus’ prayer for those who crucified him reminds me of how important forgiveness is. And to think, reflecting on the Our Father, we will be forgiven as we forgive. Not an easy one, heh?

    Reply

    • But some of those things you list, used correctly, do have a valuable purpose. I cannot live without food. Exercise can keep me healthy. Apparently wine, in moderation, is good for you. Work provides income. Religion, when it involves a close relationship with one’s creator, is a blessing. But smoking serves no useful purpose whatsoever.

      Reply

      • Yes, very good response. I was not trying to be critical. I was simply adding to what you were saying. Your right smoking in moderation does not make it better!

      • I didn’t mean to sound critical either. I guess I have a bit of a soap box about smoking as both of my parents smoked when I was a kid and I hated it. They both died of cancer younger than they should have. Were the cigarettes solely to blame? Probably not. But they didn’t help anything. You’ll notice I also didn’t find any redeeming qualities in your last suggestion, which was anxiety. 😉

  1467. I hope you’re right and she does kick it. Some teens start because they think they’re cool, although there’s nothing cool about the smell and having cigarette breath and yellow fingers, etc. sigh
    The detail is excellent. You perfectly described a picture I could see.

    Reply

  1473. kaykuala

    I pray she might kick that nasty habit
    before she’s eighteen and
    may the angels watch over her

    They normally grow out of it unless they feel flaunting it (in adult life) is macho, a mistaken belief

    Hank

    Reply

  1474. In the era of my youth, one was considered a “nerd” if one didn’t smoke, the Marlboro man graced every billboard, and every movie hero had a cigarette dangling from his lips. How they misled us!

    Reply

      • Very disgusting habit. I’ve stayed away from people who smoke. It’s not easy half the time…My brother-in-law use to smoke until my sister gave him a reality check. Not to mention they have kids, so he needed to think about him seeing his kids grow up and be alive to be at their graduation.

        I’m sorry your parents smoked right in front of you and you had to second hand smoke everything.

  1476. A very poignant write Linda, I find it hard to fathom why people still smoke, with all the information that is available now. I hope this young woman will drop the habit soon too xxx

    Reply

  1483. To me it isn’t a choice. I can’t imagine any other way of thinking than to respect life. It’s frightening and bewildering to me that some do not.

    Reply

    • Thanks! I asked God what I should write for today’s Lent poem, and immediately the idea of an acrostic of Grace with enjambment. It’s that last part that let me know it wasn’t just my idea. 😉

      Reply

  1491. I asked my brother-in-law once how long it took for him to clean his garage. His answer was “4four years and three days”. “What’s with the three days”? He said, Four years I thought about it and then three days to do it”. I think of God sometimes answering prayer like that. I have prayed for Him to do things in my life for years, I mean, years! Snce January He is finally answering some very crucial issues. Opening my eyes to know the whys and hows of things. I always call myself as a very late bloomer, but I know in Christ, it is right on time. Love your orchid! I have not the patience nor the know how to grow them.

    Reply

  1494. You may have heard this, but the Hebrew word for compassion has, at its root, the word for womb. That blows me away. I would need to go back and find the exact words as my old memory isn’t that sharp anymore. Glad you were able to be here, Lynda.

    Reply

    • In a Bible study a couple of years ago I learned that the first name God uses to reveal Himself to Moses is Compassionate. That’s my favorite of His characteristics that I like to emulate.

      Reply

  1498. Thank you so much for sharing this Linda! I am crying , just because of how God answers and works in our lives! So beautiful! Blessings and love!

    Reply

  1499. This is lovely and very tender. I love how God answered you. He brought rememberances of kind acts that your mother-in-law did for you and had you voice them out loud so you could hear them, and then follow up with her own admittance of her love for you, not only healing a part your relationship towards her but also the hurts perhaps you had with your own mother. God is amazing! His answer is always “I love you”.

    Reply

  1516. I had a cup — a coffee cup — when I was in the military. It had a cartoon puppy facing out and behind him a large pair of front paws. It said, “I’m not much, but my dad can take you!” It was a subtle reminder….

    Reply

  1517. I dunno, Linda, that photo at the top of your blog tells me that you’ve already done the flying thing! Tee Hee! Seriously, my breathing became easier as I read these lines. Thank you for that.

    Reply

    • True! Reminds me of a line in a Chris Stapleton song: “Falling feels like flying till you hit the ground.” Thankful for God’s parachute to soften the landing.

      Reply

  1523. This is so powerful, and so true for me, too:
    “Yet I have faith,
    hopeful reliance on a power
    much greater than mine”

    I LOVE that sign, in your photo. And your words. Wonderful.

    Reply

  1526. I enjoyed your poem and can really identify with the obnoxious bright headlights. The moon on the snow reminds me of the Night Before Christmas. A luster of midday….!
    Dwight

    Reply

    • The moon on snow is beautiful, but where I live no one knows how to drive on snow, we aren’t equipped to plow it, and it tend to turn to ice pretty quickly. I prefer it to stay in the mountains.

      Reply

  1530. I had neighbours visiting during the Christmas season. They come for the peace, nature, quiet and so on – they say. Then blazed strung lights all over the trees, played loud music, partied until late … the artificiality of human interference does impact negatively on what should have been a communion with nature.

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  1535. Good to go home safely ~ The glare from the headlights also affects my vision ~ Still such a sight to behold on the Columbia River ~

    Reply

  1539. I did not realize until now that your eyes are photophobic. That must be hard with your love of the sun! But a lovely and trusting haiku to sum it all up.

    Reply

  1546. Beautiful! I think this is so true. There are times when we just have to believe.
    Wishing you peace and love in the New Year, Linda! 🙂

    Reply

  1550. Thank you for your faithfulness Linda, for taking the next step and voicing your trust in Him. In reality, it’s all that any of us can do and I’m glad that you’re one of us, walking towards His day. Many blessings in the New Year!

    Reply

  1563. A beautiful advent message – we await eagerly for His arrival ~ Wishing you and your family Merry Christmas and a peaceful holiday Linda ~

    Reply

  1578. YES! I love this, Linda. I love the Quadrille, and I love this description so much:
    “You can read me
    quick as a hummingbird”

    Those fluttery wings. YES.

    Reply

  1580. Beautiful!

    I have tried following you. Hope it works. I’ve had lots of error messages, whenever I’ve tried.

    Maybe you’ll want to check out my blog/my story, too? It’s a book, so if you do, a good place to start is the beginning (Prologue/Intro/Chapters 1, 2, 3). Give it a try. And I’d love some feedback, too.

    Have a great December! Blessings! X

    Reply

  1584. This is heartening. A reminder that, hmmm, the rock seems lighter than appearances would have me believe. Oh yeah, because of The (solid) Rock.

    Reply

    • What’s funny is that I started writing this with the intention that the “rock” was the memoir I’m writing, but it became so much more. It became all that we strive to do in our own power, forgetting we have a greater power to rely on.

      Reply

  1591. Terrific upbeat plan, bathed in spiritual light, fueled by faith. You have a built-in fan base within the dVerse fellowship; hugs.

    Reply

  1598. Thank you for telling your story, Linda, good advice to yourself and others, which we can take away with us, especially: ‘Not be paralyzed by doubt’ and the lovely ray of hope in the haiku. Thank you. 🙂

    Reply

  1601. Capitalize on the feedback I receive from critique partners, but take it with a grain of salt. Squeeze in time to provide them with feedback, too, with an eye to what I can learn from that process.

    Absolutely! I love that grain of salt – so important. Your plan looks pretty good to me. I look forward to hearing about your progress.

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  1603. I wish I could go back an undelete a lot of stuff I thought was worthless. Even now I have a lot of partial posts in my “draft” file, but I won’t delete them.

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  1604. I definitely need to hear this all the time. I am a huge doubter of myself, even though I am convinced I need to write. I am encouraged by friends and a few readers and that is a very hopeful. Thank you for making me feel I am not alone.

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  1606. I, too, am learning to tell my story. Please don’t be afraid to share yours. Even if people do not comment, you never know who saw the poem and was inspired by it. So much happens when we are not aware of it.

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  1618. I think of rape as a horrendous attack by Satan. That’s why the victims always feel guilty because Satan is the father of lies and implants his guilt in the victims. What is the visual sign for the Church? A husband and wife. So, Satan’s plan is to wreck as many women as possible to lessen their worth to themselves as a woman and a wife, and thus reducing their revelation of the Church, the Bride of Christ.

    Thanks for being open and allowing the Holy Spirit to set you free. I look forward to reading your memoir.

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  1622. Absolutely beautiful! Hope as a seed that is planted, nourished, grows, and blossoms forth. Reminds us that there is tending needed 🙂

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  1644. Love the title and I know that feeling so well. Sometimes it feels like I’m writing the same thing, or using the same words, over and over. BTW, I really like the picture of you at the top of this page–lovely.

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  1649. Ha! I am with you, I was sure we did this. I checked back and dVerse did “Pepper” not long ago and another of my prompts did spice. I don’t know how much wider my repertoire of spice-inspired poems will stretch. Fun read!

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  1667. A most tender share, Linda. My own daughter lost her first pregnancy early on to a miscarriage. It’s amazing how quickly you become invested in these tiny little beings well before birth and the loss must be grieved as you would any other loss. A lovely gift for your niece’s friend.

    Reply

    • I’m glad you liked and were blessed by this. This is one of those losses we’re just supposed to get over and move on, and I think it’s important to take the time to grieve and remember.

      Reply

  1686. And they conquered Satan by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death (Revelation 12:11)

    It’s not just the blood of the Lamb that defeats Satan and his kingdom of darkness, but also our stories or our testimonies. Your testimony helps defeat Satan’s works in other people’s lives. So thanks for being a vessel of healing to others who have suffered in much the same way you did.

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  1687. The number that matters most is one. I am the one that Jesus loves. I am the one who Jesus sees. I am the one who Jesus wants to have a relationship with. It is my pain He wants to heal, my heart He wants to live in. He loves every ONE!

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  1688. Ah yes….the bliss we feel on weekends — that fee time. One thing I love about rejuvenatement (never say retirement) is Sunday nights….because they are the same as any other night now. I don’t have to worry about the to-dos of Monday, getting up and rushing off to work.
    Praying with you for those in Texas and now Louisiana too.

    Reply

  1692. Yes, “the weekend had the gall to end far too early” but we can still count our blessings! I enjoyed your rhyming quadrille, Linda.

    Reply

  1697. I am praying for them also. I have a few relatives in the Houston and Corpus Christi area. They are fine. And any day of the week, we can find bliss in the simple things.

    Reply

      • You’re a heat girl, I’m a cold weather girl. LOLOLOL cooking over heat outside is to my mind as bad as heat in the kitchen. I can crank up the air conditioning and put the overhead fan on low and I am happy. When I get outside in the heat, I get crazy enough to chew rocks!

      • I know. My mother always said, and that’s why there’s different flavors of ice cream! I cook out in the cool and cold weather. I have done that with snow falling around me! I just use plain old charcoal – I love the flavor.

  1699. Ha. I’m with you:

    “The weekend had the gall

    To end far too early
    Leaving me feeling surly”

    But yes, all my family is in Texas, but everyone is fine. So I’m very happy.

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  1706. Congratulations! Thursday night was indeed thrilling. As a finalist I was waiting to hear who the winner was. My daughter has young children and the first line of your book brought tears to our eyes.

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  1707. Argh…having trouble with internet connection…will try again here. So very glad you posted this Linda. Congratulations!!!! I clicked on the line — you should be very proud of this accomplishment and it should help in terms of getting it published too! Hurrah!

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  1711. Congratulations, Linda! What an experience, to win an author photo session.and meet agents and editors. I love the picture of the bears and the haiku sums it all up perfectly.

    Reply

  1717. Yippee for you! And thank you for sharing this with us. It sounds award winning in more ways than one. I am going to follow the link you provided after I finish this comment. And I love that you took your Teddy. I have another friend who takes her Teddy with her on various journeys, Congratulations and blessings.

    Reply

    • Thanks! I was a little bummed that my poem didn’t win, too, but the competition was terrific. The memoir was what I really wanted to win. And it was fun to get to tell agents that writing Quadrilles for dVerse helped me with writing chapter summaries for my book proposal. 🙂

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  1720. Wonderful tribute to your Bette. I’m smiling thinking of all the wonderful things she saw during her life with you. Perhaps she had a better perception of what was real in our world than we do with two eyes? No doubt, she always felt loved. Thank you for sharing.

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  1722. You obviously did the right thing to keep her. Well done. My cat has no teeth and she’s getting along fine – even brings in a baby mouse now and then!

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  1723. Bette sounds gorgeous, Linda. It is sad how she came to lose her eye but animals always manage. I can’#t believe what the vet suggested – how can any animal be imperfect? A very good friend of mine had a dachshund called Goliath whose eye was kicked out in the womb .He was a stalwart little fellow, very loving and cheerful.

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  1725. Eighteen years is a mighty long time to have a little Cocker Spaniel. The Bette Davis eye probably helped her to see danger of Bogart more carefully. I don’t think animals lose their will to live like we do over lost limbs and eyes.

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  1728. Beautiful. How wise of you not to listen to that ridiculous suggestion. I mean, really, who among us is not a one-eyed dog? Thanks for sharing your memories of your wonderful pup.

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  1732. Bette sounds like an angel and I am so glad you had so many happy years together. Eighteen is a fabulous age for a dog and this makes it extra special xxx

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  1733. I’m so glad you gave her a chance and I’m sure she paid you back in full. And the irony of Bette Davis’ eyes–that’s the first thing I think of when I hear her mentioned.

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  1743. I wrote about fear as ally & friend; opposite ends of the poetic spectrum. Faith & truth–the eternal poetics.

    Reply

  1748. As I clicked your link I was reminded of the name on your blog – so fitting for today’s prompt. Great job with this one, Linda & good luck with what lies ahead in your writing!

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  1753. “O Come O Come Emmanuel” is probably my favorite song. It gave me hope this past winter when I thought all hope was gone. It was a needed reminder that Jesus is still there and that he would deliver me.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I still need to get back to reading, but I’m trying to actually work on the memoir tonight. I shouldn’t even be here typing a comment, but needed to look something up online and here I am, procrastinating. Anyway, I’ll be getting back to reading Minute Poems tomorrow.

      Reply

  1764. That’s an excellent lesson. We’ve got to let it out, somewhere, to someone. Life’s not all unicorns and rainbows, you have shared sound advice in your testimony

    Reply

  1770. A little research can be fun to kick-start poetics; nice job. I sensed some spirituality midst the metaphor, a flicker of Jesus, a blink of baptism; smile.

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  1777. I like the twinkling of the rhyme scheme. The oscillation and scintillation of his eyes, like a brilliant radiating sunbeam. And the last line saddens us, the twinkle went out. Bless you!

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  1778. I love to see those twinkles in one’s eyes. But it is sad when it flickers and goes out.

    Thank you Linda for being part of our celebration.

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  1781. Although humans name many different feelings as, “love,” the Apostle John describes love, as “laying down one’s life for the brethren.” It is unquestionably, a selfless love. As God is perfect, magnanimously giving of His energy and continuance to sustain reality, Christ is perfect – in sacrificially giving His eternal life-force to unite with ours, enabling us to be like Him – existing timelessly forever. We must love like this.
    It is how we become perfect as “our Heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew, chapter 5). Even more than that, this continual communal action of: love for God and love and prayer for each other, acts as a “spiritual highway” bringing Heaven to earth. It alters our reality!

    Excerpt From: Mike Stair. “On Earth As It Is In Heaven.” iBooks. https://itun.es/us/DZeA8.l

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  1785. If I had to write an ode, the best I could come up with are these two lines:

    “It was the third of June, another sleepy, dusty Delta day
    I was out choppin’ cotton, and my brother was balin’ hay…”

    The rest escapes me, but as you probably can figure out, my ode is not really original. Oh well! I just wanted to be a part of the conversation and think you’re da bomb!

    Reply

    • Thanks! I actually don’t recognize your ode, so you could have told me it was original and I would have believed you. But being the honest guy you are, I know that’s not your style. 😉

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  1786. This touched my heart. For over 30 years, three of my friends and I enjoyed a girlfriend getaway, just as you describe. We shared so much. Two or our foursome are now gone. Treasure your times. You never know which will be the last.

    Reply

    • We used to be four as well. The fourth is still living, but generally chooses not to join us these days. I certainly treasure every minute we get to spend together.

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    • I guess I could add that. I don’t often think of posting pictures. I’m not a super visual person so it doesn’t occur to me. I’ll do that now. 😉

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      • Super. I was so curious after the poem that I felt a bit let down not seeing the pic after you had painted such a delightful picture of the place.

      • Oh, if you want to see a picture of the cabin itself, click on the Moss Landing link and you can see lots of pictures on their website.

  1794. I’ve done that tour. I found it absolutely amazing to think back to the old movie “Bird Man of Alcatraz” with Burt Lancaster and to think that someone could be that positive in that god-forsaken place. When we were there, there were still “signs” from the American Indian protest that had occurred on the island.

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  1805. Working in solitude as poets do, we learn our craft and read others. Sometimes, we weigh our work against others, sometimes our own work comes out feeling wrong after it leaves our minds — not quite right written out. Then those doubts seize our thoughts and stop us. Best to take a walk and let fresh air blow them away. Take heart in small successes and the times the write felt right! I like poems that explicate the process. Very well done!

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  1806. Congratulations on being a finalist in the memoir writing competition. This is a powerful poem 🙂

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  1809. Having doubts is fine; its what drives us to check and validate our thoughts and emotions ~ Congrats on being a finalist ~

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  1814. Congratulations on being a finalist in the memoir writing competition. You deserve it. If this helps: I haven’t heard a writer, artist, musician or anyone NOT having doubt, even after having achieved recognition multiple times – so it’s normal! Don’t worry and carry on!

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  1816. Currently, I think, we have to hold to our hearts moral beliefs and not those of man.
    God gave our hearts the “WORD” not words words words… It has become confusing. You have illustrated a dilemma well .

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  1818. Like King David said; “God’s word is pure, His way is perfect and His word has been proven”
    Just like silver, that has been tried in the furnace of the earth!
    The Holy Word….. the living word…… the Bible.
    It has been given to us!
    Thank you Lord………for Your inspired written word!
    Psalms 12:6
    Psalms 18:30
    Linda,
    Your illistration, it was exactly what I was searching for!
    Thanks……

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  1826. You’ve taken me to this magical place…..and yes. I so agree. Sometimes when I really look and listen and smell nature, I am in awe of this Creation!

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  1831. So perfect, how you took the sounds of the Sound. I hadn’t thought of that. Lucky you to be in such a beautiful part of the world, and lucky me for the same reason. I should say blessed, rather than lucky, for that is what we are. Praise God, all you works of the Lord! Daniel 3

    Reply

    • I’m down in the Portland area where it’s just as beautiful. It’s been a while since I’ve been to Puget Sound, but it seemed too perfect for the prompt.

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  1832. I knew from the poem that you must be talking about the Northwest. I’d like to hear the sound of the sound again. Sure hope we can make it to the beach again this year. Sounds like a great memory

    Reply

    • I actually saw some last summer from the train on my way to Seattle. I haven’t sat on the shore of Puget Sound in a long time, but I could hear those porpoises in my mind.

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  1838. The valley of Baca is a great place. Those who pass thru it will make it a well (with their tears). May you go from strength to strength in Him. Great Psalm!

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  1841. I’ve heard that God collects our tears…we are precious to Him. May you find refreshing springs even in this long vale.

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  1847. It’s funny; when I googled “valley of baka,” the two top results were 1) a pilgrimage, and 2) a Japanese swear word. How the context of language can change a poem!

    Reply

    • I was not aware of the Japanese swear word. 😉 I went to a women’s retreat where the speaker talked about Psalm 84 and how in that Psalm “baka” meant “tears.” But I will admit I’ve said a few swear words in my life in the midst of tears.

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  1851. You are just entering the season… we are almost at the end of our outdoor evenings. You describe it well… no, you paint it well.

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  1860. I love snapping beans. 🙂

    “I add a little lemon juice, salt, and summer savory to this packet” … Yummy. The whole meal sounds so delicious!

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  1861. I have not tried this one but I can smell the delicious scents of those potatoes and ribs ~ what a lovely time basking in the sun and waiting for dinner ~

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  1862. Yum! Grilled russet potatoes and fresh green beans sound wonderful. There is something so special about eating al fresco.

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    • Thanks. I didn’t really even notice the “communal” aspect as I wrote it, but you’re the second person to comment on it. I suppose that might be a by-product of spending the weekend at a Christian women’s retreat. 🙂

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  1883. “All we need is love–something the world has too little of.” –the Beatles. You know me, short poems freak me a bit-though I enjoy participating in quadrilles.

    Reply

    • But I love when you write Quadrilles. Perhaps you need to remember “Don’t be anxious” when faced with a short poem to write? You do them so well.

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  1884. A very peaceful Quadrille, Linda, which has gone some way to calming the anxiety that has been playing havoc with me lately.

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  1885. I came by earlier, but I knew you’d catch it and fix it on your own, so now I’m back to say I love this. I feel peace here, and I needed it today. Thank you.

    Reply

    • I did 30 days of writing a 30-word poem each day in April. So when I got to 30 I stopped out of habit. I expanded it to add back the words I wanted to be there in the beginning.

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  1887. As I go to court today with my son and am praying and waiting and looking towards that valley of Achor, that door of hope, these words will be a part of my apparel I will wear along with the prayers of many.

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  1894. Reading your endline words packs an extra meaning punch – Others week now chances today way how – Week becomes Weak in my mind. Well done!

    Reply

    • You’re welcome! This poem was inspired by my experience this morning of serving treats to staff at my work. Directors and managers did all the prep work and then pushed carts around the buildings delivering drinks, fruit, and pastries around to all the offices. It was such a blessing!

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  1905. I am against capital punishment for most of the reasons Steve Earle mentioned in his song, in that if you are poor, black, ignorant, and so forth, you will not have the same chance for quality legal representation as those who are not limited by these hindrances. Since, I don’t believe this will ever change, I will remain a Christian conundrum: one who hates abortion and is against capital punishment.

    Reply

    • My Christian stance is that I’m anti-abortion, anti-capital punishment, and pro-compassion. This song reminds me to step into the shoes of others and have compassion on them. Perhaps, I think, if Billy Austin hadn’t felt so alone all his life he never would have ended up where he did. Hopelessness breeds all kinds of sorrow, and so my goal is to spread the hope of Jesus where I can.

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  1945. I have been blessed not to suffer from depression except for a two hour period, which the Lord allowed to happen to me twenty years ago. It was so dark and deep that my memorized scriptures and prayers could not help me get out of it. The Lord had to send a Christian to deliver me out of it.

    I recognize that the depression countless hundreds of thousands have suffered from need a move of the Spirit to set them free. Pep talks won’t work. Come quickly Lord Jesus and set the captives free!

    Reply

    • Oddly, I’ve learned that sometimes there is freedom IN the depression. When I feel the cloud of depression, when I feel like saying “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” and yet at the same time know it is well with my soul, that I’m not forsaken, I am free even when the cloud of depression descends. It is His Spirit that provides that assurance of true freedom.

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  1947. Linda, I was quite pleased to read here of your participation is Shattering Stigma with Stories. I was a speaker at the first conference. It is a blessing to see how the Holy Spirit is leading the community there to bridge the distance between faith and mental illness.

    May God bless you as you are a blessing to others.

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  1952. You don’t need 44 words to spread your words; so cool–kudos for your poetic brevity.

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    • Happens twice a year at my house because my husband and son both want German Chocolate cake with Coconut Pecan frosting, and that frosting doesn’t spread very well. But it is delicious!

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  1963. I had never thought about it…a drizzling is much easier. And miss quadrille cheater…you did make me laugh with your clever addition at the end.

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  1971. truth is hard to say out loud and writing helps, though the shadow of doubt is always in my heart, i appreciated these words very much

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  1972. Mired in fear my heart grieved
    Truth set me free

    One must be fair to oneself first. Only then others matter. It works that way most times!

    Hank

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  1984. Well done, 30 words and all! I have a dog named Marco. I tried to put him in a devil costume and though he lives up to it, he wouldn’t wear it even for a minute. LOL

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  1985. Good for Roman for standing up for himself. Poor puppy has been through it and is handling it with much grace, I think. thank you for this huge smile, and blessings to Roman.

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  1986. A fun 30 word sprint; I agree that Roman, who does not seem to be a pup, has the right to be cranky with Junior. Dignity before servitude.

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  1987. However, your son has a sense of humor! Roman, on the other hand, has teeth. HAHA! I had a friend who would dress up their little dog for every occasion. I’d visit and secret that costume into my pocket. No wonder the dog loved me best! Fun poem, Linda!

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  2001. An apt poetic description of a personality that we all need to avoid. I’ve had a few characters in my life that I’d wish they’d balloon away in a basket or otherwise.

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  2003. Hi Linda, thanks for the “Like”! I looked through your list of posts and as soon as I get some free time I will be coming back to read them. I did check out a couple and I love your tone and sincerity. Looking forward to some down to earth reading. Blessings to you and yours!

    Reply

    • Hi Bruce, Thanks for the kind comment. I’m glad you found something here worth reading. My goals is always to glorify Christ and to promote His healing power that I have personally experienced. I was glad to have found your blog as well. Reasoned and logical arguments for faith in Christ are so important.

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  2006. You made me smile as I read, but also reminded me of the ‘balloons’ in my life! Popping in to say hello. Hope you’ve had a great week. Smiles xx

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  2015. Sorry for the things you have endured. I touched upon the generational curse-thing, too, so I thought I would share that with you: Chapter 2: Interference
    https://clevangelist.wordpress.com/2015/12/22/interference
    My life has been a disaster, and, funny, I thought it would get better once I became a Christian in 2014, but that hasn’t been the case. Three years later, I still feel like Joseph, Job, and Jonah all rolled into one (with a dash of Hosea).

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  2016. He expects us to show the scars of the wounds He has healed so that others may find healing, too.
    ^ Exactly. And he gave you the ability to write for a reason. Keep going.

    Reply

    • It was very hard but so rewarding. I got to see God use my story in a powerful way. Plus He showed me He will be with me whenever I give Him the glory for what He’s done in my life. I know I need to write a follow up post, but I’ve been focused on getting my entry polished for a writing contest.

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  2020. Thank you so much for posting this. God spoke through you to reassure me what I’m going through. God bless and thank you very much!

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  2021. Linda, how did it go? I like your statement about the value of “Showing our scars”. It’s wonderful when God can use our biggest wounds and turn them into something sweet for Him and others.

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    • I don’t know yet because the conference is March 11. Guess I should have said that in the post. But I trust God’s in control so I know it will go great!

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  2022. This is so exciting! I love what He is doing in you and how others are going to be helped and touched too! God bless you abundantly!

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  2024. Sorry it took me so long to get here, Linda. I love this. In my humble opinion, the platypus is quite simply a singular evidence that proves God has an AWESOME sense of humor. 😉

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    • I totally agree! And no need to apologize for not getting here sooner. I still need to finish making the rounds myself. There just never seem to be enough hours in the day.

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  2033. “I wonder if I would have been just like her—legalistic and critical—if I’d been spared the fertile soil of suffering that mercy needs to grow.”

    I’ve considered this for myself as well. I’ve hated some of the trials I’ve walked through, but darn…I LIKE who God has made me because of them. A much more thoughtful and patient person, and much more empathetic, I’d like to think.

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  2042. As a kid I was afraid when I heard the words “Holy Ghost.” Now, I’m blessed to know and understand the Spirit of Truth for what it is-some texts also call it Holy Breath. I like that.

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  2044. I really like this. I heard both versions of the Holy…. I like your take on this prompt and to be honest, I would have been disappointed if you had not taken this turn.

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  2045. This is so interesting to me. When I was a little girl, learning my catechism, I imagined the Holy Ghost as a real ghost and was quite frightened of saying these words in my prayers.
    I think it would be interesting to hear a discussion of this within, for example, a seminary setting. The triumvirate — I’ve always preferred the words Holy Spirit. 🙂
    I enjoyed your post!

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  2062. Oh Linda this is delightful. I too struggle, I think we all have a little animalishness in us, when it gets out of hand is when it becomes monsterous. Love to get those nudges!

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  2066. I’m not important or interesting enough to write a memoir. I imagine I will just turn to dust like all the other ordinary folks when I die. Good rhyme scheme in this!

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    • The time and energy I’ve devoted to writing it is one of the main reasons I’ve been less active at dVerse over the last year. But sometimes a little poetry diversion is just what one needs.

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  2071. You have asked some tough questions, but the important point to remember is that the god of this world is not our Lord. It’s Satan. Jesus came to redeem us from sin, Hell, and eternal death. Thank God, He has redeemed us.

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    • What I find most frustrating is when people who are in agreement on the essentials get hung up on how their position is framed so that they hear division where it doesn’t actually exist. Semantics divide us.

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      • Positions are I believe framed for many people which is what holds the division in place…there is so much we actually have in common regardless of our politics, religious beliefs and so on. Thinking for ourselves is critical.

  2088. I’ve been writing a semi-memoir for ten years. I’ve threatened to “kill my baby” multiply times because it’s become the monster and Leviathan. However, I keep returning to God’s original nudge to “write it.”
    I’m learning the process of writing and walking in obedience to God’s nudge, can also be a Teacher! Lessons learned along the way.

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    • I’ve only been working on mine for about 2 years, although I wrote in my journal almost 20 years ago a desire to write it. The nudge of the Holy Spirit is strong and He will see it done. I pray He will help you finish yours as well.

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  2101. Curling smoke…..funny to watch some of the old movies when smoking was such an acceptable and expected thing to do…not even considered a “habit.” Both my parents smoked…it was the days of fancy ashtrays given for wedding gifts…we had a white ceramic one with a delicate rose on its edge. How far we’ve come…

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    • My father-in-law had a collection of old ashtrays with advertising in them. One is shaped like a bed pan and advertises a medical equipment company. We’ve come a long way, indeed.

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  2110. My hubby smokes but he doesn’t do it inside the house, and not when we are around either ~ Don’t like the smell of those tendrils and curls of smoke ~ Good to catch up on our prompts Linda ~

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  2112. I remember rooms, buses and train carriages being blue with smoke. Breathing in fresh air was so wonderful and I love ‘So I’d twirl the crank open the tiny window breathe fresh air’.

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  2116. Such a well written Haibun…I loved it and it hurt…this line was just too much and I cried… “I wasn’t there to eat her Jello. Maybe if I had been she could have come home again”

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  2124. Smiling I am…..although my guess is that folks don’t find this too humorous when they have to deal with it. I’m reminded of the common phrase or suggestion to “take a flying leap” (“over a bridge” could be added). Did not know about this City of Bridges.
    Glad you posted today! 🙂

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  2125. Wow. I am sure that jello has never been ‘just jello’ to you after this experience. It would always be laden with such beautiful meaning for you to treasure as you hold your mom close in memory during the times you miss her most.

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  2130. You put us right there with you as a child…so sweet and endearing amidst the seriousness of cancer. I liked the half smile of your mother as she allowed you to have that jello.

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  2134. I suspect parents should always tell their children what is happening to them so they don’t feel abandoned even when they are older. I will try to remember to do that thanks to your haibun.

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  2135. Very sad and touching story ~ Hospital food can be so bad but a jello to a child is delicious ~ Maybe, maybe she could ~ Thanks for sharing this Linda.

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  2136. Whoa, Linda. I had to take a deep breath to stop the tears. How wonderfully you have written this haibun! The detail of jello works so well here. Heartbreaking especially as she didn’t come home. January seems to be a month of these sad memories. Blessings to you.

    Reply

  2142. It had not been easy and simple that one sees today. Festive seasons now had been preceded with lots of sacrifices. Wonderful take Linda, with all the rhymings intact! Merry Christmas to you and happy hols!

    Hank

    Reply

  2147. My foster mother and sister are both mastectomy and breast cancer survivors. Sometimes the illness of a loved one is harder on the those that watch, because we cannot fix or heal or take away the illness. And sometimes the remaining scars are a hard thing to view, they remind us of that illness, of all that was before that is no more. I think for your mom(and my foster mom and sister) that scar is their badge of strength, of bravery; proof that they are still here despite the cancer that threatened them. Sending hugs and wishes for continued strength to you and your mom.

    Reply

    • Thanks. My mom lived another 13 years after the breast cancer, but she died of colon cancer when I was 23. Writing about her illness and scar has helped me understand her better. I’m so glad your foster mom and sister were able to beat it. Hold them close while you can.

      Reply

  2148. Oh this is so raw and real to read. Difficult words to see. My daughter-in-law is one of the 20% survivors of Triple Negative Breast Cancer…..3+ years. I pray every day for her continued health. Your words mark the reality of this insidious disease. I shall include your mom in my prayers today.

    Reply

    • It will be 29 years in January since my mom died, but since the one who hears our prayers is timeless I thank you for lifting her up. I will pray for peace and healing for your daughter-in-law.

      Reply

  2156. This hits me hard as my mom right now will undergo breast surgery ~ I think its important to brace yourself and myself to seeing beyond the scars ~ Its a challenge to go on and even smile ~

    Reply

    • I hope your mom will have the option of reconstructive surgery to help heal the physical and emotional scars of the surgery. Back in the 70s my mom didn’t have that option.

      Reply

    • Thanks. It is from a bigger story. It’s just a little piece of the memoir I’m writing, though as I write I’m learning it’s a bigger piece than I once thought.

      Reply

  2161. Breast reconstructive surgery can do wonders for self-esteem. Your poem makes me wince, & want to reach out & hug.

    Reply

  2164. Linda, this cuts deep, especially that last line. Sometimes, unfortunately, our scars do define us, for awhile. I hope this particular one became a mark of survival.

    Reply

  2182. I really like the way the “breath” came along with you in every stage of parenthood. It is so hard to let go, but trusting in a higher power does give us reassurance.

    Reply

  2184. Exhale fear and inhale God. Yes! I keep reminding myself of that as I am faced with new challenges daily. I have my mother living with us now, She has Alzheimers and now she is amazed that she has a daughter and that she is me. Inhale God, exhale fear.

    Reply

  2195. For me this brought to mind Rembrandt’s painting of the Prodigal Son. I often visualize the close-up of the father’s hands on the son when I get too focused on my weaknesses. If you don’t know it, you may want to find it in Google Images. So wonderful.

    Reply

    • I was not familiar with that painting, but Googled it as you suggested. What a wonderful painting and I can see how this poem would bring it to mind. Thanks for sharing that.

      Reply

      • It was the theme of a parish mission last year. One hand is male, the other female to express God’s loving compassion. The hebrew word for compassion is from the same root word as womb. That just blows me away.

  2201. This is a perfect picture of Waikiki as it is today. I was there when it became a State in 1957 and it was a whole different world back then. Guess I’m getting old and grumpy. The haiku is just wonderful, Linda.

    Reply

  2205. So well done. We’ve been to the Big Island three times…….loved hiking in the national park — stayed in a rental home way off the beaten track. And then, one of those times, also went to Waikiki…and you’re right. Other than the weather, it seemed like millions of miles away from where we stayed. Different places — same state. Similar on the mainland too.

    Reply

  2210. Sadly.. A rape culture
    started in the old testament
    around the time of concubines
    and sharing daughters..
    and still reigns
    slavery
    and
    pain
    to women
    all ways that comes…
    there is no bravery/patriarchy
    in the weakness of man fallen to rule….

    Reply

  2211. I believe that those well meaning people said what they did because of the shame that many rape victims have felt and thus kept quiet about the crime against them. I think they were saying you sure were brave not to keep quiet and feel shameful about it. It does take courage to speak up! The fact that many victims blame themselves doesn’t help matters…more shame. Thanks for sharing, Liinda.

    Reply

    • I don’t doubt that they were well meaning. And at first I even thought it was nice of them to say. As I thought about it more it just made me frustrated that we are still in a place as a society and culture that there is shame associated with this type of crime for the victims instead of the perpetrators.

      Reply

  2212. Oh, Linda. He does indeed call us beloved. I am so sorry for what happened to you. Our scars do make us brave, I think – more places for His light to shine through.

    Reply

  2217. I hope a day would come that no one will have to survive a rape. A time when such cruelty exist no more.

    This is a powerful and insightful piece, Linda. And what makes it more beautiful is the way you look at life. God bless.

    Reply

  2218. Powerful poem. Sometimes it seems that the leaps women have made, are backtracking further and further. I am so sorry this happened to you, and I hope there is some comfort in sharing.

    Reply

  2219. “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.” (Rev. 12:11)

    Your testimony helps to set people free and destroy the works of Satan.

    Now, whether we react to your testimony properly may always be up in the air when you speak or write. Yet if your goal is to set us free, then you may have to give us grace and allow the Holy Spirit to work in us. Maybe, we will change.

    Reply

  2220. There are those moments both in creation and in Spirit when God just seems to break through and we recognize him even more because of what was absent. Too bad for those who don’t have the patience to wait.

    Reply

    • It’s a 45 minute drive from sea level to the top of Haleakala. No climbing involved. But still, I don’t understand why they were so angry but the guy standing next to me repeated at least 3 times “I’m so angry” before they left.

      Reply

  2224. I feel anger on your behalf and guilt that I belong to a culture that glorifies sexual assault and degradation of women. We all bear the collective responsibility to do more to prevent future rapes.

    Reply

  2225. Stigma only adds to the pain…you were a victim of man’s evil but God is good and loves you as His daughter. I think He weeps with us over the wrongs done/said to us. Prayers for peace and healing.

    Reply

  2226. Powerful words. The stigma is institutional, from the beginnings with law enforcement and evidence giving, right through to the language of the courtroom. It ALL needs to be challenged constantly. Thank You for these words of truth.

    Reply

  2231. I find your use of ‘clouded’ in this powerful and honest poem such an innovative use of the word for such a thought provoking issue.So much of our thinking is clouded but your poem really clears the ground. Yes, rape is another form of violence and we don’t help the victims by sensationalising it or demeaning it. Thanks for fully sharing why you wrote the poem.

    Reply

  2233. Oh Linda, I feel for you. People who have not experienced rape or known someone who has been raped find it difficult to express how they feel about it. I can understand your anger. As you say,God doesn’t call you brave – He calls you beloved. Your poem expresses your emotions so well and you’ve worked in the prompt word perfectly.

    Reply

  2236. Know this….many many many people do not blame the one who was raped. Perhaps these people simply were at a loss for words — people struggle for the right words. Sadly, and we are seeing this played out in the media now, there are still too many who view female bodies as chattel, something separate from the mind and something ready for the taking. I have faith that more and more we are beginning to answer these folks back and say, this is NOY okay.
    Your poem is powerful. Thank you for posting.

    Reply

    • I do know they meant well and do not intentionally “blame the victim.” But we need to change the language we use with sex crimes so that they are seen as the same as any other in terms of the victim. Thanks for your encouragement.

      Reply

  2239. Oh my, this made me want to cry, Linda. Bravery lies in the willingness to not allow oneself to remain a victim, I suppose–no matter what the offense. I can’t imagine the pain of surviving rape. But I also see courage in those who don’t fall victim to bullying…or at least don’t remain there. God bless you.

    Reply

  2240. “I am thankful that God doesn’t see it that way. He doesn’t call me brave; He calls me beloved.” So true; I am thankful, too! Your Quadrille is well written, thank you.

    Reply

  2242. I love your message here. These opening lines set it up perfectly:
    “She told me I had a right to be angry
    And so anger became my constant companion”
    I’ve seen that happen too many times. When a person become “entitled” to his or her anger, it becomes very hard to let that feeling move along. Letting go of anger is even more important than recognizing and expressing it. JMHO, of course.

    Reply

  2243. This is an intense and lovely piece, Linda. It is OK to be angry But forgiveness is the braver thing to do, and even when it seems an impossible thing to do, somehow, God pulls us through.

    Reply

  2244. Wow! The repetition of the phrase puts it in our head and we can feel the torment here. I like and appreciate the movement to resolve, redemption, and peace at the end. I think for people who are haunted with anger and revenge, whatever the horrible circumstances that cause those feelings, it is a real journey “to the other side” and your words have traced that well. Thank you for sharing this post.

    Reply

  2247. Forgiveness is for the brave and recognising that anger and ‘unforgiveness’ only eats at the self. However wrong the wrongs, the best healing comes from setting yourself free. So glad you found God to help you with this and for seeing that punishing the wrongdoers only draws you into that energy you so want to be free from.

    Reply

  2249. If I had a gun I’d shoot him” ~ the repetition of these words made the piece brim of angst. BUT it is such a relief to read that last line. Indeed, it is much better to choose peace.

    Reply

  2252. Eschewing violence for peace is a step of full of deep wisdom.
    “You will not be punished for your anger. You will be punished by your anger” The Buddha

    Reply

  2253. Forgiveness can be your saving grace…to move forward from the pain. Otherwise we are still the victims for life. You are a brave woman, Linda. (((hugs)))

    Reply

  2256. Oh Linda, this is so emotive, such raw openness in your poem here, I agree sometimes we have trouble containing anger and resentment and yes I too feel like shooting with a gun (if you know what I mean) But thankfully we are led to the path of forgiveness and peace.. eventually <3

    Beautifully penned.

    Lots of love,
    Sanaa

    Reply

    • I’m glad I never did either. When I think about how I felt for so long, the violence we see in our world doesn’t surprise me so much. It’s sad that more don’t find the path of forgiveness.

      Reply

  2293. I love this line: “Secure from the former things” … It makes me think of “former” things in not only the sense that certain things have past, but also in that some things/experiences are “formative.” They make us who we are, whether the experiences are good or bad, pleasant or painful. Regardless, in His arms, you are kept away from it all … a sort of amniotic fluid, really. It makes me picture this special safety taking away all the things that have formed you into who you are, taking you back into a womb of sorts … or back into God’s presence before your conception.

    Reply

    • Thank you for such a thoughtful comment. I was indeed thinking of former things that weren’t so good but have shaped who I am, and because of Jesus that shaping has been good.

      Reply

  2305. Really really like this, Linda. Is it a specific form? The way lines three and four in each stanza start with the last word in line two really resonates with me! Wonderful work.

    Reply

  2321. Your gospel renderings are sweet, & do gently rock the fun prompt. You were right to expect mine to be politically oriented.

    Reply

    • It has always astounded me that Judas lived with Jesus for 3 years, saw all the same things the other 11 did, and yet betrayed Him because what Judas saw didn’t match up with what he expected the Messiah to be. He was walking a path of expectations and couldn’t see the reality in front of him that was so much better.

      Reply

  2331. Redeeming
    giFt of liFe
    from birth
    to death
    open from
    nothingness
    my friend.. whetHeR
    during or otHeR..
    enduRing
    liGht
    as
    LoVe
    for LiFe..
    Grace of Gift
    my FriEnd.. noW no
    greaTer than liFE..:)

    Reply

  2352. Wonderful quadrille. And the ending is amazing. I love your tale ending with grace and redemption. Our readings at church were also about grace and redemption and the love of the Father for all of His children, even the bad, lazy, self-righteous ones.

    Reply

  2353. Beautiful, Linda. Made me think of this verse I love:

    “God made my life complete when I placed all the pieces before him. When I cleaned up my act, he gave me a fresh start. Indeed, I’ve kept alert to God’s ways; I haven’t taken God for granted. Every day I review the ways he works, I try not to miss a trick. I feel put back together, and I’m watching my step. God rewrote the text of my life when I opened the book of my heart to his eyes.”

    2 Samuel 22:21-25 (The Message)

    Reply

    • I know there are some books I’ve quit mid-book, but I suppose I do them a disservice to not keep reading. When we apply that analogy to a person’s life, we have to keep reading to the end and not give up on them because the chapter they are on seems to be a disaster.

      Reply

  2355. Our reading at church this weekend were all about this, culminating in the parable of the prodigal son. I so love this story and find it so easy to identify with him and also with the brother…both so in need of the Father’s crazy love. Wow!

    Reply

  2357. I love that last line. <3 I believe in a roller coaster ride, you could either choose to scream in fear or joy. The choice is ours but I'd prefer the latter. 🙂

    Reply

  2358. I think everyone has said what I wanted to say – except I’m not keen on roller coasters but, as a Brit, I’m used to standing in queues!

    Reply

  2362. I think the truth lies in both extremes — it does not matter in the big picture — but it does in someone’s small picture. And the big picture is a bunch of small ones but we don’t arrange it.

    Also, we are often delusional thinking our story unique, needed or more. More often, we just want to scream out ME! It is important to admit that — it makes for better writing, I think.

    If you ever re-write this poem, I think it would have ended better by just leaving the last line off.

    I loved the analogy and the rawness.

    Reply

  2371. What if like Mordecai Ham, you only touch one important person with your memoir, but that person ends up being Billy Graham. That would be good, right?

    Reply

  2375. SMiLes.. the greaTest wishes
    and prayers the same for
    homeless Jesus’ i have met
    on the side of the road are simply
    to be fed and give/share love.. and as the
    raven flew
    there are
    still humans
    who gift the wish
    and prayer the same
    for food.. the essence is
    the light and truth where
    wishes and prayers are only
    forms for
    the essence
    of the greatest
    gifts of charity
    empathy and
    compassion that
    sees neither gentile..
    jew.. servant or free..
    woman or man no more..
    as wishes and prayers become
    essence of God’s of Nature’s higher
    potential in all of us.. now.. smiles.. all my wishes
    come true as i have 100% faith.. hope.. and belief..
    never less than luke hot.. per se.. noW more true..
    a wish
    that has
    no name
    my friend but
    God who lives within..
    where ye of little faith never ever exists now..
    where Happy anniversary is always now for
    brothers and sisters who share the root and vine
    of love
    same
    my friEnd..
    as essence of TrUth and liGht..
    but yes.. sure2.. Happy Anniversary in terms
    of numbers to both you and your husband too..:)

    Reply

  2381. I love this:

    “Well, wishes never got me anything, but my husband’s prayer to meet a nice girl he could marry the night we met brought us together.”

    Happy anniversary. 🙂

    Reply

  2385. Congratulations to you both! Sending you wishes and prayers for many more years of happiness. I really enjoyed your poem. A good reminder of the power of prayer and I respect your feelings on wishes. Perhaps we can agree on the power of positive thinking, bringing good thoughts and deeds to life. 🙂

    Reply

  2405. beautiful imagery of the seasons. I see and feel those leaves bursting in color, then curling on edges in their slow dying…Well written!

    Reply

  2414. Linda, this is beautiful, and so evocative. I feel your fall funk here. It helps, for us, that winter here in Southern Nevada is one of our nicest seasons. That makes fall the gateway to beauty, and relief from our 100+ degree heat.

    Reply

  2415. Autumn is a sad season, even for those of us who enjoy it. It’s the end of the summer and winter is around the corner – but spring and summer always come around. That’s the beauty of nature. I love the way your poem starts by bursting forth, with the sunshine and colourful flowers, and then has such a sad coda that leaves (oh dear, that word again!) no doubt about your feelings.

    Reply

  2417. I love this idea of starting with the idea of “meanwhile.” I may have to borrow that for some future writing.
    I love this vignette! 🙂 The naiviety of children — their unconditional love — the unconditional expression of all emotions felt. You made me smile this morning over my second cup! 🙂

    Reply

  2421. love the little “meanwhile” snapshot of you and your son. Sometimes there are aspects of our stories that may not be crucial to “telling the tale”, but they add depth and colour…much like a bit of salt being added to a meal.

    Reply

  2422. I do love that we connect what we learn here, and what we learn elsewhere… and the meanwhile is an excellent thing to think of… both as slightly outside the arc of your story… but also write about the things that are in the periphery, and just maybe those things turn out to be more important in the end.

    Reply

    • I have about 1/3 of it typed up. And at the OCW conference this weekend I figured out my story arc and how I’m going to structure it. Plus I learned some ways to make the 1/3 I’ve already written more concrete. My goal is to have a draft polished in time to enter into next year’s OCW Cascade Writing Contest in the unpublished memoir category and hopefully win and find a publisher.

      Reply

  2434. LOVE this, Linda. I have read there is a culture that adds liquid gold to put pottery (jars, etc.) back together…in order to add even greater beauty to broken. As I am a testament to second chances, I truly believe God uses the broken, beautifully.

    Reply

  2438. The last two lines really hit me, to write from the heart is to feel and to feel is to be alive. So shed a tear if you must, for then the words come alive.

    Where no tears in the writer
    the prose is surely dead

    Reply

  2443. God’s love…the creator of sky and sea, first blue. I know the memoir will be trying and painful at times but it has already touched me in this poem.

    Reply

  2445. Sounds like you are writing a personal history, and that is a big undertaking, but such a worthy one. I agree that the deeper the feelings, the more easily the writing comes. Hope it goes well for you!

    Reply

  2449. I hope you find your writing cathartic and maybe it will bring you some satisfaction and peace even though the process may be tiresome and trying.

    Reply

  2450. I used to think it harder to write poems from feelings of peace, happiness and contentment. I find the trick is to look around me at nature and let that symbolise my emotions. And what better sign of God’s love than the bounty of our natural world?

    Reply

  2456. Still a fantastic word many years later after you writing it Linda!!
    God is good, and leads us so well as a perfect father, always teaching and training as as His sons and daughters.
    God bless – and keep storing this gift God has given you to write, and even preach 🙏🏻💥🔥

    Reply

  2457. I love the picture of you – it is always how I picture you – the introverted extrovert – even if sad, I see you bathing in the sunlight of God’s love and sharing it for all. Well done.

    Reply

  2459. Terrific self-portrait, Linda! The dichotomy of being an introvert and extrovert is the pivot of this poem. (Fits me, too – I get that one!)

    Reply

  2464. Love the photo Linda. And I think I am also in between, the introverted extrovert, straddling the line of expectations. Good one!

    Reply

  2465. Excellent answer to the prompt – shows the juxtapositioning we do in life. Especially like these words “introverted extrovert straddling the lines of expectations.”

    Reply

  2469. This is awesome. Totally, fantastically perfect, honest, and deep. I wish I could have written this and have it be my truth. I have crumbled spiritually over the past several years. I remember knowing these truths, but can’t claim them anymore. I’m sure there’s hope, but it’s hard to grasp.

    Reply

      • You’re so right. I wonder if part of me tries to be so awful that not even God could love me … kind of like I tend to do with humans. If you make everyone hate you, then they can’t really hurt you (much).

      • Just so you know, every time I click on your links, I think, “Oh no. I don’t want to read this. She’s going to make me feel bad because I know I’m not acting the way I’m supposed to. I’m not reading my Bible, and I don’t have a right heart.”

        That is a huge compliment to you. You are doing what you are supposed to be doing. Making the heathens feel sweaty and uncomfortable. 😛

        And just so you know, I’m married to a minister. I think that’s what makes me feel so stir-crazy and stifled. But also, I’ve always been a wild child. I’m naturally an awful person. So when I’m living for God, if you see me and knew me before, you will KNOW that the Holy Spirit is real, alive, and active. Because otherwise, there’s no way I could become such a totally different person under His influence.

  2475. I am an introverted extrovert
    straddling the line of expectations

    Gee, and I am an extroverted introvert… really! I love the opposites you present in your bio. Too often we are given either only the gold or the dross by the author/poet. Thank you for showing both sides in this well-crafted mini-bio-poem!

    Reply

  2487. Oh Roman, you did such a fine job on this haibun. I know your mom appreciates getting a break from having to write. The hike though long, sounds like fun, especially the pastrami and chicken. Welcome to dVerse and I hope you get to write for us again.

    Reply

  2488. Love iS
    thE God
    medicine
    that works
    when sOught
    when fOUnd
    fElt
    when
    worked
    as practice
    oF liFE as LoVe..
    and never less than LoVE liFe
    100% hope.. faith.. and BeLief
    as Love Lives as HUman eYes..
    greAtest poWer oF God We aS LoVeNOW..:)

    Reply

  2491. I do not care about the urban woes and problems of the black community.
    If they want to work it out for themselves, great.
    They need to work on parenting and refrain from anti-social behavior.
    Period.
    I will listen to the DC Talk song now.

    Reply

    • I find the first four words of your comment very sad. I care about all of God’s creation.
      I agree that some parents in both urban and rural areas don’t teach their kids the important life lessons of loving and respecting others, but to say this applies to all urban black families is, I believe, an inaccurate over generalization.
      May God’s grace touch your heart today.

      Reply

  2492. Ah those trigger aromas! 🙂 We do all have them….enjoying this read very much albeit very very late in moseying up to the bar!

    Reply

  2496. A refreshing poem in flow and rhyme. Very peaceful. I do enjoy eucalyptus as an essential oil but you have made me quite curious about the real deal.

    Reply

  2508. Smiles–I grew up in the midst of eucalyptus trees in SoCal, too and they made their way into my poem as well. Even today, I have essential oils that I love to inhale as a reminder. Lovely

    Reply

  2509. Live eucalyptus is indeed a lovely scent. Quite different from oils and bottles. I love the frosted leaves as well. form and scent in a beautiful bundle. This is an excellent poem and I love the rhymes you used to carry this along. Most enjoyable that biking on those roads of long ago.

    Reply

  2511. The scents of our youth… so varied. I never smelled eucalyptus unless I had a really bad cold. A peaceful poem and quite enjoyable nevertheless!

    Reply

  2512. Hmm – and while I read your sent-filled poem, I am looking at the eucalyptus bouquet on my kitchen counter! Wonderful choice and wonderfully done, Linda!

    Reply

  2516. Those are the ones who keep score. I bought her roses – up ten points – that’ll get me out of the dog house. Doesn’t know who he’s messing with!!! Great read.

    Reply

  2518. When I finished reading your poem, I said to myself, “Send him a murder of crows!” Not sure why. The poet’s tone here is well done. The voice has just the right amount of bile. Excellent!

    Reply

    • Thanks. When I was cutting words to get down to 44, those two words taking up eight of my allotment seemed like a good choice. I’m glad you liked it.

      Reply

  2535. I cannot but agree with Bjorn. How the roses will wash away all the dirt and make it better. Very good use here of the past and present and reality vs. what he wishes was so. Oh my Linda, you nailed it on this one.

    Reply

  2538. oh my….how some of those young boys can pull the wool over a mom’s eyes. She sees the boy who comes to the door — the daughter is with the boy and beholds who he really is. You’ve told the story well….

    Reply

  2546. Love the beat of the rhyming verses. We do keep score don’t we but hopefully it will become shorter and shorter as time and grace allows.

    Reply

  2550. So enjoyed this, Linda–the personification of summer and winter with such important biblical undertones. God is so loving and forgiving!

    Reply

  2551. Ha – I certainly know my mother kept score and would take out her long scroll of complaints about me and my Dad out whenever it suited her… You do an excellent job of describing ‘conditional love’ and its opposite.

    Reply

  2557. Okey dokey….I liked this knowing how you love summer. I might ask you the question, does winter forgive summer’s cruel wllting heat? LOL, I think I know the answer to that. You enjoy your heat and I’ll keep task for the cold. Let’s meet in the middle with spring. But I like how you AND Corinthians is often considered prose poetry because of how it is written. Excellent job.

    Reply

  2560. I know we provide prompts to steer the poetic discussion. But what you’ll find about me is although yes, I would rather you stayed on task, I also realize that the process is key as well. If it gets you to write something, then it is doing its job. But as I see it, Linda, you wrote a summer poem based on the writings of another. I mentioned poets and poems because that is our purpose. But it could have been something by a novelist, essayist, evangelist or as we’ve seen, a song composer. There are really no wrong answers. And since I’m tending the bar, I’ll say it’s just fine. And BTW, your poem is more than just fine!

    Reply

    • Thanks. I like how you worked it out that I actually followed the prompt. That makes me feel better. 😉 Glad you liked the poem. I’m hoping to get back to read others during lunch today.

      Reply

  2563. “I suppose the wedding day was a microcosm of the marriage itself, into which some rain and some sun will come in alternating bursts of life together.” – not only is that true for marriage, but for life itself. Well done.

    Reply

  2566. Oh you’ve captured the northwest weather so well here! And then to relate it to a married life — well done. Into each life some rain must fall.

    Reply

  2570. Indeed it is and a little rain they say, brings good luck. One just have to pray very hard that the weather will be more cooperative if its held outside. That summer rain is precious though. Enjoyed the story and picture Linda.

    Reply

  2579. God iS LovE
    never hEld alone
    by word or other
    idol
    form..
    NO.. God never
    a Statue.. God
    allone allLove
    allnow
    allLove iS
    LOVE
    IS LOVE
    IS LOVE..
    FEARLESS..
    WITH NO EXCLUSIONoW..:)

    Reply

  2580. “It felt weird to look down on the carts filled with unnecessary things
    while praying for their souls.” This is my favourite part. Some good messages shared in the persona of this little angel.

    Reply

    • Thanks. As I wrote it, I could picture the giant campground map with it’s three big loops. I should have dug it out, scanned it, and included it with the post. 🙂

      Reply

  2586. A good cry can be very cathartic for sure. My condolences for the passing of your aunt, Linda. I’ve found many times that when I feel that I’ve moved passed something painful I can be triggered by something that brings all the pain back again. I guess it can be a long process to heal our hurts.

    Reply

  2594. A poet ever has to look far to find a muse, a subject or a cause. What a nice gentle poem; enjoyed it.

    Reply

    • I was just surprised that I had not one, but two, pictures of her in my phone to use for the post, since Lillian specifically said to post a picture. 🙂

      Reply

  2598. My sympathy in your loss, Linda. We had heavy rain today…like the sky was crying buckets for our world’s sad state of affairs.

    Reply

  2599. I love this Linda! I’m reminded of the beautiful statue of St Francis my daughter has in her yard – graced by falling snow, or autumn’s fallen leaves or the green hope and warmth of spring and summer – it’s always calming to see him there. I sense you feel this way about your angel too.

    Reply

  2603. One thing I’ve learned, we all have our own trigger words, trigger songs, trigger places…..some for the good, some not. I think one important thing is that we share our life with someone who understands those triggers — and that we work to understand others’.

    Reply

  2605. When I see my good friend, going outside and around the corner to get his smoke, then coming back to us with that undeniable smell…..and health beginning to fail and still he smokes — one understands the addicition this is for some. So very very sad.

    Reply

      • I lived with secondhand smoke for several years (18-21), Linda. Both in my apartment (ex husband) and at work (in a bar.) Just awful. I’ll never forget the day I felt like I got my nose back. Now I can’t stand even one whiff of smoke.

        I loved this stream of conscious…from the tip of ash to the panting pup. Isn’t it funny how thought comes around right at bedtime, like swirls of smoke?

  2610. It is indeed odd how such things will tear at us. My father’s twin sister died last april and I was amazed at how it triggered such grief in me, the grief again of my father’s death. I am so sorry to hear of this loss for you.

    Reply

  2614. It’s been a series of the matri/patriarch spilling into the other side for so many of us of late. And as you say “Yet life goes on”

    Reply

  2617. Death keeps us on our emotional toes, as ragged circumstances require our recruitment. Lots of dark poetics out here today. Thanks for the in depth thoughts you left at my site; Hugs.

    Reply

    • The odd thing is I wasn’t really that close to my aunt. But she is the last of my dad’s siblings, the last of that generation in my family. Yet life goes on.

      Reply

      • I have also mourned the passing of someone I didn’t think was all that close to me, which may say more than I knew about the importance of the “web” of family that helps us understand who we are as persons, and helps feel known, connected, guided by family mores–even when we are not aware.
        And I think I get it about missing a critical connection because I focused on the wrong thing. 😕
        The precious thing is that we can pick out and savor the good.

  2620. Amen. Love and forgiveness are both beyond us. We love because He first loved us goes with a corollary that’s jumps out all over the scriptures: we forgive because He forst forgave us.

    Reply

  2621. Good points, Linda.

    Unforgivenness may eventually lead to a root of bitterness, which will defile many people (Hebrew 12:15). What is bitterness? I believe it’s unfulfilled revenge. This terrible cycle can only be broken through forgiveness.

    Reply

  2622. I can’t agree more. I shared this on another post today. I placed my guns on the kitchen table and commanded them to kill. The result is obvious. Guns don’t kill. People kill. Taking away guns or enacting more laws will not change that. It is worthy to note that the killer of all those in the Sandy Hook massacre had already been told by the state of Connecticut that he couldn’t legally own a firearm. It didn’t stop him. More laws are not the answer. Address the evil from within.

    Tim

    Reply

  2623. Intriguing. I like the inconsistent rhyme. Why Arnold or Ted? They don’t rhyme or alliterate, so is it a reference to something? Or are they types of lantana? Or maybe I’m just not supposed to know…

    Reply

  2624. I had to look up Latana as I wasn’t familiar with it. Very pretty.
    You took us along on your daily routine and it was fun to picture you giving treats to your pets, making your lunch, etc.

    Reply

  2629. Lantana seems to be almost a weed here and grows wild in some places. I had a very large one once. The birds and bees loved it. I adore those multi-colored, brilliant flowers. So enjoyed reading about the start of your day, Linda.

    Reply

  2630. I love the pausings here, so important in the business. The noticing of flowers, the choosing of food and outfit…and the chatting with our Creator, who made and provides it all. Just wonderful.

    Reply

  2633. Ah! The lantana – do I detect a love of them? The coffee, the lunch description and that leaving bone – beautifully described!

    Reply

  2634. I mentioned in a comment on dVerse about my love of Lantana–they are abundant in our desert place and they sprout up new growth. They make me happy–as does that so necessary God-time in the morning.

    Reply

  2635. I felt hungry reading your packed lunch, smiles ~ I admire the pause for prayer and giving the pets their treats ~ As I also go to work, I can relate to your choice of clothes, ha ~

    Reply

  2636. I am so glad you mentioned your time for prayer. Your lunch sounds good to me along with Crazy Cat, Dog, and lantana. I’ll def bring you some French thyme, parsley, cilantro, rosemary, basil….no mints though, smiles. My lantana always die. They hate me. So I just make do with zinnias. I’m and herb and veggie person for my garden. But clover….oh yes, clover everywhere.

    Reply

  2640. Very powerful, Linda. I second what Walter said! And, thank you for joining in and writing such a vulnerable response to the prompt 🙂

    Reply

  2646. i can certainly relate
    as i was too depressed
    to the point of total
    incapacitation for
    66 months to
    travel to see either
    my Father or Step
    Father then.. fortunately
    i got well just in the nick
    of time to see both of them
    before they suddenly dropped
    dead.. so yeah.. i can sure feel
    your pain for not being able to be
    tHere but in liFE tHere is the dARk
    that not all can either relate to
    or understand.. mY friend
    and thaT iS truLy wHeRe
    the Unconditional
    Fearless Love as
    related by the
    Role Model
    Jesus comes
    in.. to forgive
    oneself too..
    as others now
    and move on
    to Love more..
    truly liFe is too short
    to not listen to everyone
    dArk and liGht or delete anyone
    out of anyone’s liFE when FReED
    WitH Fearless Love but that ma’m
    takes work hard God work for hUmaNoW…:)

    Reply

  2647. So sad when it happens… so sad when we do not understand the small signals… I can regret that my mother started dying in dementia too long ago, and now it’s too late, since parts of her is gone.

    Reply

  2651. This piece goes to the heart. Many of live with regrets, but strength comes in learning how to live with them and not let them take over our lives.

    Reply

  2655. This strikes at me deeply as it happened to my husband and until now, he has regrets on not visiting his father before he had a heart attack ~ Good one Linda ~

    Reply

  2656. This made me want to cry for you. I think you’ve mentioned it before. I can’t help but hope/wish for you to be able to know that somehow, in God’s plan, it’s okay and he (your loved one) understands.

    Reply

  2659. Indeed it is Truth to cling to when the breeze becomes a storm ~

    I must check out that Bamboo Spark also, so cool ~

    Reply

  2663. I tried this…woke up because the poem kept poking me. I wrote and wrote. In the morning, couldn’t read my writing except in bits. This was a delightful read Linda….the different traits of the poets and how you did a unique list poem.

    Reply

  2664. So glad you shared – and so glad you keep that notebook beside your bed. Some of the most intriguing thoughts come to us when we’re half groggy with sleep in our eyes!

    Reply

  2665. That is supremely clever: a list poem of a very special kind. How wonderful of you to find one outstanding trait of each of those poets and play with it and wonder about the mysterious process of creativity!

    Reply

  2666. Oh I love everything about this…the pondering thoughts about poets, the rhyme and especially the ending. That would be me huddled in the corner with the light of the computer monitor….writing instead of sleeping.

    Reply

  2669. Each poet named brings something special to the table; an example to follow, and yet with words and thoughts that are our very own. No matter time of day, they are owned by us! A thoughtful poem, Linda.

    Reply

  2671. Linda, this is such a joy to read! There are some things that all writers share and you nailed it, my friend! My best words come rushing in the moment I close my eyes, so I schedule a siesta as often as possible to guard my nights. yeah, right…. 🙂

    Reply

  2672. I too can relate with your ending line ~ Some words stay with me, some disappear in thin air before I can capture them ~ Hope you feel much better ~

    Reply

  2673. This totally hit home. I always wonder if my favorite poets/authors ever struggled with a self-doubt as crippling as mine… even those writers whose struggles are well-documented. It seems, since I’m reading about them in a context where their talent is a matter of historical fact, that their insecurities couldn’t possibly have been so terrible– just look at the works of genius they had to produce! (This is, of course, silly) I always wonder, did they think so differently from the way I think? Where did they find their inspiration and passion? How much were their creative choices driven by intuition? etc, etc

    And it seems like your best ideas always come at night, doesn’t it? Never, of course, when you’re sitting in front of the blank page, totally prepared to write. Oh, life 😉

    Reply

    • Inspiration when prepared would be just too easy, wouldn’t it? I would guess that all poets have that self-doubt, which give me hope that long after I’m gone perhaps I’ll be a famous poet. Maybe you will, too! 😉

      Reply

  2675. Yes Linda, I can relate to this, for sure – I’vesince taken to a small voice recorder by the bed, as I could never read my scribbles in the morning! With Best Wishes Scott

    Reply

  2678. Sigh, you have stirred some truly wonderful emotions and thoughts with this poem.. we do indeed wonder at times where the words come from <3

    Lots of love,
    Sanaa

    Reply

  2680. Being a carer can be very arduous. (It’s good to get all the support services available, if possible, to help.) However, feeling the strain is very different from regarding it as a burden.

    Reply

  2681. No celebration
    Only wishing him near

    Appreciating they are there then! How noble of you Linda! That is true. They don’t expect anything extra. Just be nice and they’ll be forever grateful. Others who have lost their parents are the ones who suffer not the ones having to look after them.

    Hank

    Reply

  2684. You not only rocked the prompt, but personalized it; packing a lot of honest emotion into a few score of words; nice job. My parents died young, mother at 39, father at 53; cancer the culprit.

    Reply

    • Cancer was the culprit with both of my parents as well. And they weren’t young when I was born — 38 and 43 — so I was relatively young when they both died.

      Reply

  2689. A good reminder to treasure the moments we spend with our love ones. Poignant piece. 🙂 I’m sure your dad is smiling happily knowing that he’ll be in your heart and mind forever.

    Reply

  2693. A good message in your poem, Linda. I guess one of our human flaws is not appreciating what we have in the moment that we have it. That is a very sad trait when it comes to family.
    I lost my dad 33 years ago. He was only 46. So many moments, happy and sad without him.

    Reply

    • Although we hope that children outlive their parents (because what parent wants to bury their child?), it is hard when parents die so young. I’m sorry for your loss of your dad.

      Reply

  2694. Oh, Linda. This hits home. I am so very blessed to have both parents still living (in their early 70s). Thank you for the important reminder.

    Reply

  2695. Very heart touching, Linda. Wish I could be planning a party for my parents. Do these people not think they were sometimes a burden to their parents when they were young? The time of the season changes for us all. Very loving poem.

    Reply

  2698. My parents are still alive, though frail but still good, not falling into dementia ~ This is a lovely and moving tribute to your father ~

    Reply

  2700. I understand both sides of this, Linda, as I see my mom at 95 slip deeper and deeper into dementia each time I visit. There are so many forms of loss. When I almost lost her in 1998, I was devastated–now I’m not so sure it wouldn’t have been kinder for her. She would not have wanted to be this way–but I believe God has a plan for us at every stage of life. I do sometimes question Him about this, though–and mosquitoes and earwigs!

    Reply

    • I can understand that. I wouldn’t have wanted to watch either of my parents deal with dementia and am sorry you have to deal with that. We do all have our different (but similar) losses to deal with. As for me, I’m going to ask about ants as well. 🙂

      Reply

  2701. My father would have been 96, Yes indeed. These people who complain about their blessings. I wish I could be planning a party for him. I wish my mother could get her memories back. Excellent write on this word.

    Reply

  2707. The trials and tribulations of life…some never find a higher power to pull them through, but you did and you do. I always appreciate the honesty in your words.
    On a side note: Thank you for “pollywog”…a treasured word from my childhood that I had completely forgotten about!

    Reply

  2709. I’m reading your reply just above where I am about to type and I am saying, “Oh, my, yes!” It happens often that I start to write something, bog down, give up and walk away from it, and come back a day, a week, an eon later and finish something better than what I started. This is a solid poem that needed to assert itself. I’m glad it did!

    Reply

  2714. The contrasts hit the target dead-center! You sweep the reader into this marvelous memory and then jolt us out with reality – fabulous! I also love the word petrichor 🙂

    Reply

  2716. 600 varieties of irises?? I would need more than one camera chip. Appreciating nature with you son….very precious moments indeed. 🙂

    Reply

  2718. “Oh take me back sweet summer rain
    To when scraped knees were my worst pain
    Bicycle rides on dusty roads
    Catching pollywogs, snakes, and toads”

    Sweet capture of innocent times!

    Reply

      • Mine too! Except for the snakes. I prefer to admire them from a distance. (They prefer it too.) 😉

  2726. I’ve had a calming and soothing piece.. Smoothly done, Linda. I love irises, too! <3 It was nice taking a walk with you and your words. Have a great day! 🙂

    Reply

  2728. What a wonderful way to spend Mother’s Day! 🙂 I felt a bit of a voyeur coming along with you here 🙂
    I’ve always thought of Iris as a “bearded flower.” Wonder if there is a named one somewhere like “Mister Whiskers” or “Ms. Beardie.” 🙂
    Some time ago I wrote for a prompt (in NaPoWriMo?) where the challenge (and it was a challenge) was to write poem using words from a seed catalogue. Loving sunflowers I googled Burpees (a seed catalogue we used many many years ago when we lived in Iowa) and found soooo many names for sunflower varieties! 🙂 It turned out to be a quite fun poem 🙂
    Thanks for taking me on this walk with you!

    Reply

    • I remember that seed prompt but wrote something else that day.
      As for bearded iris, that is what they call a whole category of iris. Click on the Pretty Edgy link and you can see all the ones they sell at this iris farm. Maybe there’s a Mr. Whiskers.

      Reply

  2730. I love how you have weaved the names of flowers into your prose. They are so very innovative… I had no idea of all the sorts you can grow.. If I have any passion it’s probably for geranium… also there the variety is huge… (and you can eat them too).

    Reply

  2733. What a lovely Mother’s day. Irises! Every spring new and never old.
    I walked with my son yesterday through the flowers too. Just had to smile with this

    Reply

  2737. I love irises. The haiku is so much fun. When I lived in TN, I discovered that iris is their state flower. They bloom wild along the roads, in ditches, fields! Every year is a huge Iris Show with new varieties, old varieties – some of the blooms are not much bigger than the first digit of your thumb. And the fragrance of them all mingled together. Of course you can buy rhyzomes for them. Some are indeed pricey! Thank you for sharing this walk. it brought back such happy memories. And on Mother’s Day with your son – how blessed!

    Reply

  2738. I liked the gentle humor in the piece. And the names of the iris varieties, and those of the “companion plants” are so evocative. Sounds like a fantastic way to spend Mother’s Day

    Reply

    • It’s hard not to have a little humor in a story involving my son. He’s a pretty funny guy. Glad you liked this. If you click on the “Pretty Edgy” link it takes you to the website for the iris farm where you can see even more interesting iris names.

      Reply

      • Oooh, thanks! I love “collecting” interesting names for my writing. And your son’s comments make him sound like he & I would have similar senses of humor haha XD

  2739. I love irises and what a wonderful way to spend Mother’s Day. Our first bearded iris opened this morning and we took photos, one of which I posted on our photography blog. Thanks for sharing your walk, Linda.

    Reply

  2742. Linda, this piece is incredible. You certainly get the dVerse golden kudo for working yourself into a poetic frenzy. I love Frost too. This is very impressive; one of your best.

    Reply

    • Thank you! It’s been great to get back to the poets I loved in my youth but lost touch with during so many years of major depression. Frost is foremost among them. Glad you liked this one.

      Reply

  2743. I like the twist on this one. It is an incredible feeling to be able to face the darkness knowing it is already overcome by Jesus.

    Reply

  2745. Love this, Linda. Isn’t it the most amazing thing that OUR NAMES are written down…especially on His heart?

    And I LOVE that when we memorize poems, they are with us for life.

    Reply

  2746. I like your retelling of Eve and her succumbing to temptation. It is a struggle we all face throughout our lives.

    Reply

  2754. I love the way you’ve told the story of Eve and the Deceiver. Wonderful lines that work very well with the chosen poem. 🙂

    Reply

    • I think it is easy to blame Eve for our troubles, but if she had passed on the forbidden fruit, another one of us would have taken the bait eventually. But I do look forward to the day when the streets of heaven are as transparent gold and it will be here to stay, without sin and without temptation.

      Reply

  2759. Oh, Linda. I was telling Glenn earlier, one of the things I love about this form is when the original poem becomes a gorgeous backbone for the poet’s new poem. You have done that here, just beautifully. Perfect.

    Reply

    • Thanks. This was really fun, maybe because it was so challenging to make it work. In theory is sounds so easy to have your end words dictated — the poem’s half written, right? — but to really make it work takes real thought.

      Reply

    • I didn’t actually intend to do that when I started; In fact I started the first stanza with “I” saw. But I’m glad it turned out that way, too.

      Reply

  2761. Nicely developed metaphor, Linda. I just drove through the Mojave on Sunday. It never fails to entice me…the wild flowers, not as profuse as wetter years, still bring joy. Still thrive even in aridity, as we often are called to do.

    Reply

  2762. i was worried about the cause of the bruise at the beginning, but glad to see it was only a horse….of course. Love the title of your poem and thanks for a second response to the prompt. Most enjoyable. 🙂

    Reply

    • The human brain is a crazy thing. I meant “but.” When I reread it several times I saw “but.” When I read Grace’s comment where she copied and pasted that verse I saw “but.” And this is why writers need editors. 🙂

      Reply

    • This was 4th or 5th grade. My school was overcrowded so we had half day sessions and I went to school in the afternoon. Had the whole morning to get in trouble while my mom was at work.

      Reply

  2775. Love the double play on “southern exposure” here. 🙂

    I got burned by the tail pipe of a friend’s motorbike once. Should never have been on it, and would have been in BIG trouble if I got caught. Told my parents I burned my leg with a curling iron. MAN, I hope my kids don’t lie as freely as I once did!

    Reply

  2776. A perfect analogy from start to finish. This is so strong, Linda and has to be one of my favourites of yours so far.

    Reply

    • The prompt made me think of the verse that talks about the tree planted by the river nor worrying about the drought, but then I had to translate that into desert terms where there is no stream, only intermittent rain. I enjoyed this prompt very much.

      Reply

  2780. I specially like the refrain of:

    Life-giving water is scarce
    by I know how to survive ~

    Amazing metaphor of faith and hope ~

    Reply

  2781. Although, not a Christian, I like your usage of the cactus, as a metaphor, for your faith. A very creative and not, a heavy handed pronouncement of your belief, which I like.

    Reply

  2782. LOVE this, Linda. We’re less than two hours from Death Valley, and it is an area my son adores. I also share your faith, and love how you wove living water into this.

    Reply

  2783. A wonderful metaphor for faith – we store up those beliefs and they do indeed sustain in times of trial and tribulation. Grateful for every day.

    Reply

  2784. This is a sweet metaphoric triumph, L.–important message without preaching; very effective & creative.

    Reply

  2794. Like they say, it’s the editing that’s the hardest part of writing and that’s exactly what you were doing with that bean soup! Nice, Linda.

    Reply

      • SMiLes.. i have a confession to make..
        Linda.. FriEnd.. mY entire blog is one poem
        that is over 3 million words
        long.. with 663 macro
        verses.. some folks
        call ’em chapters..
        and tens of thouSands
        oF micro verses for
        macro whole.. and
        the other day.. i finished
        one macro verse.. comprising
        noW.. aLL mY dVerse poetic
        responses to ALL dVerse
        links/prompts from a year’s
        time from April of 2015
        through March of 2016..
        truly having no idea of
        what i accomplished as wHole
        and that “GodsUniVerseNovel3”..
        yes.. my third free verse Novel..
        just for fun.. as i’m financiAlly
        independent and would
        never ever now
        accept money
        for art anyway..
        particularly.. associated
        with God.. but yes.. i understand
        i’m fortunate in that way..
        and yes.. the entire
        poem ended
        up at
        338,630 words..
        like ‘they’ say.. faith..
        hope.. and belief can
        move mountains more than
        swords my friend.. words
        oF Love
        go farther
        and i WiLL
        witness for
        that until the
        end of server days..
        dead or alive.. IT matters not..
        who kNows perHaps a thousand years..
        oR moRe..
        wITh
        sMiLes oF
        FearLess Love..:)

  2800. Lovely. My birth father died before I could find him. My real father is still with us, which is such a blessing. Thanks

    Reply

  2801. Good call on skipping the Limas. Blech.
    (I know this is a metaphor, but the mere mention of Lima beans… I can’t even.)

    Reply

      • Linda, You know, there are some days when I think, ‘What am I doing? I’m not a poet!’ And then I look back at where I once was and realize how much I’ve grown. It is wonderful that you reflected on how you have grown. Those are the little seeds of joy in all of this!

  2805. How this made me smile! Sounds good to me. I was going to have a salad for dinner but now…..I may skip the salad and dig my container of bean soup out of the freezer.

    Reply

  2810. i read this forward and then backward and i honestly think doing it both ways helped me see this poem more clearly. it’s so honest, so raw, such a beautiful story of ugliness and triumphing despite it.

    Reply

  2811. i think this is something we all wonder from time to time. what do people really see and think of us from our writing? how much do we reveal? how much do we conceal? beautifully put.

    Reply

  2813. There’s a big lump in my throat right now, Linda. This is just so well done. That “don’t tell your mom” made me smile so much. I am so sorry for your loss. There are some losses we simply never get over. But we will get through.

    Reply

    • I think the hardest part is that my son has no memory of my dad because he died the year before I got pregnant. And yet looking at my son is a bit like looking at my dad – same build, same smile, same sense of humor.

      Reply

      • That has to be so hard. But what a blessing that you are there to bridge the gap, tell him stories about your dad, keep his memory alive.

  2815. Those “word walls” can be a safe haven or solitary confinement. Glad for doors and windows, which can either expose or conceal. We long to be known yet we need to protect ourselves…I feel a tug in both directions.

    Reply

  2816. A word wall……I love this phrase. The question of what our words reveal — said or written. And whether others can ever really know our true selves. It’s a question of putting a gate on the wall — and letting folks in, right?
    I have come to believe in that last few years, very much in faith and angels along the way.
    hmmmm maybe when we write a “fictionalized” poem, there are still kernals of ourselves in those words?
    Thank you for this post — really made me connect and think about things.

    Reply

    • Perhaps poetry is the gate for me. I hadn’t thought of that. 🙂 I like that better than my vision of 4 impenetrable walls, which are more like a prison to keep me in than a room to keep others out.

      Reply

  2817. This wall feels like a museum, with the different stanzas acting as different works of art, requiring that they be appreciated and mulled over on their own as well as part of a larger collection. A nice glimpse into the psyche.

    Reply

  2818. For some reason, I see the speaker saying these words into a mirror… looking at the self that leaves in the poetry… wondering what she shows to the world.

    I think our “word walls” (love that phrase) reveal different things about the different us we are on different days and for different reasons. And like the poem says, there is always the one thing that is always at the core of each poem–for this speaker, her God.

    Beautiful form and deliciously thought provoking questions.

    Reply

  2819. I think often in the blogosphere people hide behind their words. I like the fact that most of the time in your poems you write REAL. I am not a fan of flowery words that sound beautiful but have no meaning, and I have a difficult time commenting on those poems. I too try to be REAL in my poems much of the time, unless I am simply being playful. (smiles) You have got me philosophizing here. I do think if I knew you in flesh I would not be surprised by your poetry! I do think we could enjoy a good chat over coffee. Smiles.

    Reply

  2820. Love this, Linda. I often wonder how much of the “face” that fellow poets see is actually me. I like to think I’m pretty what-you-see-is-what-you-get in all areas of my life, but we all have our masks, I suppose. I lean on my Savior, too, and appreciate that about you – and your beautiful writing.

    Reply

  2821. I liked your questioning piece here too, Linda. I think I can express a lot of myself that I wouldn’t otherwise do even with the people closest to me but no not all of me. I think there’s so much of ourselves that we don’t even know. Maybe part of writing is an exercise in self-discovery.

    Reply

  2822. Sometimes I think we use poetry to release parts of ourselves not as easily vocalized in our day to day interactions. I think it is like that for me. On the other hand, there are pieces of me not shared in my poetry. How others perceive each other is something I have always found so interesting…the power of perception whether accurate or not.
    I really enjoyed the questions in your poem.

    Reply

  2824. I think it’s what a poet is meant to do, hold back in real life in order to let go in poetry. But it’s always good to keep something back.

    Reply

  2828. I agree. I put a lot of me in my writing but I also withhold much. I am afraid people only see a haiku life of beautiful discipline and nothing unpleasant. Today I got real. It felt good. I often see in your writing your faith, love of your family, love of summer an warmth, your quest for peace.

    Reply

  2829. To me, this speaks of “the mystery of one’s being,” that part of self that no one really knows (except God), not even self. I understand a bit of what you say. Sometimes (often) I’m afraid my poetry only expresses that one small part of me–that part that may seem obsessed with death. But my real obsession is life. Death only serves as a contrast, a highlight. Peace, dear Linda.

    Reply

    • Thank you. I had to start with the first line, because I knew where I wanted to end up, but then I wrote from bottom to top. It was an interesting prompt, for sure.

      Reply

  2841. You described those relatable poet-writer moments that we all love, hate and love to hate, and very creative with the questions for the poets.

    Reply

  2847. I think we all could do a lot better. If we could picture the Earth as one of our precious loved ones perhaps it would change the perspective of our duties to her. Thanks for a second poem for the prompt, Linda…I appreciate that!

    Reply

    • I agree. God gave it to us to take care of, not abuse, but we aren’t doing a very good job. And I’m not just pointing fingers at everyone else — I know I don’t do my part as much as I should.

      Reply

  2856. bright and cheery….dark and dreary….alone….despair….and you bring us to “Seeds of hope and forgiveness sown ”
    Beautiful journey this decima is.

    Reply

  2857. I never did catch on to the “peeking” routine either, Linda, it’s only been since I became a team member and it was mentioned. Oh well. Anyway, I love your decima and your share of how life can seem to get the better of us and then light will show once more to cheer us on.

    Thanks for giving it a go!

    Reply

  2858. I so agree with Bjorn, who writes in an earlier time zone. I too, take a peek at Bjorn or Mary to find out what’s coming up. I prefer to write poetry in the morning, & take care of other things in the afternoon, so these advance peeks are/have been essential for me ( & yes, I used to hop onto Brian’s & Claudia’s sites before–& still miss them dearly). Of course, one can be led astray by misinterpreting the other poet’s effort, but hey, that just spices up the learning curve, right?

    Reply

  2859. Indeed your poem speaks the truth. One is fortunate when one goes through those difficult times that one is called back through that ever abundant grace.

    Reply

  2861. Ha.. it’s not cheating, it’s a long tradition of dVerse of people posting early to give people a chance to be early… I used to go to Claudia’s or Brian’s blog and check it out… I love how well you have executed your decima, and the ups and down of coming back to joy…

    Reply

    • I love all the Psalms! It’s my second favorite book of the Bible, right after John. Psalm 88 is a good one and I can certainly relate to it, but Psalm 116 is my favorite of all the Psalms.

      Reply

  2865. I love this. Must try one for my own wandering so. I started off with the memoir and told no one and still haven’t ! But have told everyone about my novel, started last July and almost finished, and of course the poems, thanks to Dverse ! Good luck and keep persevering, bit by bit it should happen. I fear the redrafting and must now stop blogging!

    Reply

  2867. Oh man! If I had known about step 16, I don’t know that you would have had step 18. I knew you were reading up on the genre, but I didn’t have a true idea of your process thus far until this post! Yikes!

    Step 12 made me laugh.

    Girl, sit down and write the thing. You got everything you need already–story and heart and skill. Go. <3

    Reply

    • Well, I’m not done yet. I’m sure there will be more steps forward and a few back before the memoir is done. And then I have another one hiding in the back of my mind. 😉

      Reply

  2871. I wrote my memoir while my mom was still living and hoped she’d never read it. Yet, I made up my mind if it pleased the Lord, I’d write it anyway. Isn’t that what our walks should be about? If you want, I will send you a PDF copy of my memoir.

    Reply

    • I think it’s important at such times to remember what we know to be true — we are loved — and not let feelings get the best of us. Easier said than done.

      Reply

  2876. What a great reminder to fully listen to another person’s story rather than so eagerly jumping in with our own.

    Reply

  2884. no two stories are the same, but the recurring theme of loss and grief is what allows humans to share sympathy and empathy despite whatever differences in details.

    Reply

  2885. Well done. I think so many people do not know how to just listen and they feel awkward and then jump to fill the space with a “me to” or “I know someone” or “well, I think you should”….
    Listening – a look in the eye — a pat on the hand. A quietness – sometimes that’s all that is wanted – that in itself is a validation.
    Your words ring true here. Very well said.

    Reply

  2888. I think we may all experience the same, but the impact and depth are unique to each and everyone ~ Love the twist in the end & thanks for playing along ~

    Reply

  2894. this is such a quaint poem! i adore the bouncy rhymes and the fact that you used poetic terms as your dictionary selections; it’s quite appropriate, i must say.

    Reply

  2896. Linda! This is crazy. I used the exact same source dictionary. 😉 And linked my poem right under yours. You’re the first blog I’ve visited today. Too funny. I love this. And amen to the sestina not being contagious. 😉

    Reply

  2897. I’m so sorry for your pain, Linda. I can understand that a number system is almost useless with different individual tolerance levels as well as the fact that some days our own tolerance is different than other days. Interesting how you wrote the haiku first….starting from a source of comfort. Hope you have better days soon.

    Reply

  2898. Coming in at the end of our Haibun Monday, but so glad I did. This has to be the most moving piece I have ever read of yours, Linda. I always appreciate the openness in your writing. It does take courage. Thank you for sharing your journey of healing with others. It can truly inspire.

    Reply

  2901. Linda, this is very clever! It has taken me awhile to come by and ‘visit’ since meeting you with Cornelia at the Writer’s Connection meeting in March. We have something in common (besides poetry!) I was born and raised in Orange County–beach towns and inland. Something about that California girl in us always seeps out.
    Well done.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by. I love the connections made via the Faith & Culture group. And it’s true – I think once a California girl, always a California girl, though I haven’t lived there since I was 12. I look forward to seeing you at a future writers connection, though I don’t think I’ll be able to make it this week because of other commitments.

      Reply

  2903. I can’t imagine the courage it takes to write such a story, yet it no doubt will touch/heal others. Thank you for sharing this, Mish. That first paragraph–oh, I relate to that. The curse of perfectionism.

    Reply

  2904. I think we all feel like this at times I know I have! I’m happy you are now sharing these words because as a writer, I don’t think you can grow unless you do share your words with others. Wonderful!

    Reply

  2905. I think that we all have those feelings of being unloved/undesirable/invaluable. Good to know that we are loved…even when we don’t feel it.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I do know that, but the thought otherwise nonetheless rears its head at times. I suppose in part I wrote this for those who do not know, to see that they are not alone and are also loved.

      Reply

  2912. You’ve really put it out there in this poem. I too would add a heart here — but do not know how to do that….but consider this smile face full of love 🙂

    Reply

  2914. The power of a testimony – “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.” (Revelation 12:10)

    Reply

  2916. Thank you for doing two haibun and such a good one! I hope this comment takes.. i checked back and my first one did not take. The poem at the end is such a hopeful and strong statement if faith. I have chronic pain as well so I can sympathize with “take it away!”.

    Reply

  2917. Chronic pain is horrible. I have it and so does my husband. On that 1-10 acale, when my doc asks, my answer is 50. Because it is his specialty, he doesn’t pooh-pooh me. I like that piem at thd end. What a happy hopeful statement. Thank you for doing two haibun. And such an amazing one too.

    Reply

  2922. I hate numbers, in general. Especially when they are trying to define/quantify something as intangible as pain. I related well to this piece, and as usual, I LOVE your haiku.

    Reply

  2924. Oh, Linda–I was a hospice nurse and now I, too, have chronic pain. And those questions just drive me crazy. How can we quantify pain? With the WWII generation, I had to learn to read their pain by body language–even my own (I was a war baby) we were taught not to complain, no matter what. Defining pain is so very subjective. What do we compare it to? I think I like the pictures with facial expression better than the numbers. And so we take it one day at a time and do what we can to ameliorate it so as to have good quality of life and not be so self-involved–pain has a way of doing that, heh?

    Reply

  2925. It must be awful to be in continual pain…whatever its number. And, I like the way you have expressed that the number IS inconsequential….constant pain whatever number would be very hard, and there should be some way for a doctor to deal with it (I would think!)

    Reply

    • Thankfully there is. It took me years to find the right doctor and the help I needed. I just need to get the procedure scheduled as I’ve let it go too long.

      Reply

  2938. Lovely images, but I loved most the last two lines. Pronounced and read one after the other, they really summon the spring atmosphere and made me feel lively and enthusiastic.

    Reply

  2948. Beautiful! We had early spring here this year, in February. Ha. So most of our flowering stuff is in full fruit already. Happy to picture this blooming beauty. Thank you.

    Reply

    • I probably should have snapped a photo of the front yard flowers and posted it with the poem, but I’m more of a word person. My photography skills are not great. 😉

      Reply

  2950. A cry sometimes cleanses the soul, sometimes. ‘Nice work’ from me too Linda.
    Anna :o]

    Reply

  2952. Isn’t the word “façade” fantastic? So much in one little word. And you’ve packed a punch with this little poem. Nice work, Linda. Happy Friday!

    Reply

  2953. I’ve labelled these kinds of forms poetic sudoko! 🙂 You’ve succeeded quite well here. Mine for NaPoWriMo went over to the darker side. I shall go completely the opposite and have some fun with the Sevenling and post tomorrow AM. Sestina??? oh my goodness……….have not even attempted!

    Reply

  2954. I had to laugh out loud at your comment about the Sestina taking “the better part of a day or two,” as I have lost a few days at the ruthless mercy of the form. The Tritina is much more enjoyable to write, and I truly enjoyed reading yours.

    Reply

  2955. An open expression of the pain you must have felt. I lost my dad when I was 22. The unresolved becomes a huge part of the grief. As we grow older, we hopefully begin to measure ourselves according to our own expectations and morals. In a way, I’m sure that some of these have trickled down from our loved ones. From heaven, they look on. Hugs to you Linda.

    Reply

  2966. Linda, sad, but so beautiful! I want to share one of my poems with you with the hopes it will bring a smile to you. Sending blankets of spiritual love, hugs, and grace your way.

    Butterflies

    Whenever I see the butterflies flying
    I am reminded of your smiling face,
    As I see them taking wing into the sky
    I feel emotions which are never displaced

    For in my heart also live the butterflies
    As they come to life within me each day
    While I count the different memories of you
    Which in my thoughts and dreams will stay

    The brightness of their many vibrant colors
    Produce a vivid rainbow deep within my mind
    Which fills my heart with such unwavering joy
    Allowing me to enjoy them for an endless time

    The butterflies will be my deepest treasure
    Leaving me never again feeling the same
    As the peace they bring to me cannot be measured
    For on their wings are imprinted your name

    Wendell A. Brown,

    Reply

    • That is beautiful! Thank you for sharing. With my mom, it’s bald eagles. She always loved bald eagles and when I see them I think of her, free from the pain of cancer.

      Reply

    • I’m sorry for your loss. Even though we know our parents will most likely die before us, and we wouldn’t want them to have to suffer losing their kids first, it’s still hard.

      Reply

  2971. Very cruel month to be left unable to clear the air between two people before it’s too late. But actually I believe it’s never too late to make peace with yourself.

    Reply

  2974. Well done you on combining the two. I’m still working on my NaPoWriMo Prompt. For some reason I’m find today tricky.
    You’ve done a great job though. So succinct and heartbreaking.

    Reply

  2977. “Languishes lazily” is a wonderful way of describing that mother bear. Those two words are slow to say, so they emphasize the laziness…but I’ll take your warning and not be fooled!

    Reply

    • I had just gone to see Risen when I wrote this and had the visual of the crucified criminal who were just dumped into a pit and the birds were pecking on them, coupled with reading Revelation 19. Probably more info on inspiration than you wanted, but I’m avoiding other writing, so there you go. 🙂

      Reply

      • Thanks. We went to the Semana Santa procession in our local town. On the Saturday there is a very large dead Jesus being carried in great solemnity and devotion. And the Virgin Of Soledad in black with tears. Very Spanish in the desire to show the story and the Stations of the Cross.

  2979. Yes, I met a mama grizzly once in Yellowstone! It must give the cubs a real sense of security to have such a loving, powerful protector.

    Reply

  2989. Ah, Mama Grizzly — rolls around, nudges cubs….but as you say, she can earn her name if anyone threatens her offspring! hmmmm are we that different???
    See you at NaPoWriMo!

    Reply

  2991. Ah, Mama Grizzly is not unlike Mama Human! When the child is threatened the mother comes to his/her defense. It seems to be the nature of mothers whatever kind! Good luck with NaPoWriMo!

    Reply

  2993. sMiLes..
    mY favorite
    iS Thomas
    37.. Jesus
    aLL
    freEd
    wItH
    God
    Alive..
    WiThiN..
    and sure
    wE aLL
    have
    equal
    access too..
    Yeshua then
    Jesus now..
    i and me and
    uS alWays wE..
    when Fearless Love..:)

    Reply

  3005. Yes, dear lady, our minds both touched on forgiveness today; nice to write in parallel tracks; smile. This piece is perfect in form & message.

    Reply

  3009. We need more world leaders who are servant kings…those who rule with love and humility for their most needy of people. Beautiful, Linda, and happy Easter to you.

    Reply

  3014. In parts of Tibet, the dead are chopped into pieces and fed to birds. And I have known wonderful, wonderful Tibetans who would want this for themselves and loved ones.

    Ah, our images and fears of death vary highly from culture to culture.

    Reply

    • I may have been influenced by a recent reading of Revelation 19, although there it is the evil Kings in the final judgment of evil who are devoured by birds.

      Reply

  3027. I have faith enough to believe that God can heal
    But do I have enough to trust if He does not

    A classic opening Linda! It has to be a faithful that adheres to beliefs to guide towards the future. And one must have those beliefs accepted in the first place to savor the goodness that comes.Beautifully set for both takes!

    Hank

    Reply

  3028. SMiLes.. an
    aLL merciful
    God plays
    now by no
    human rules..
    in other words
    tHeir are no
    words..
    yoUr
    sister
    iS safe
    iN aLL Merciful
    God’s arms..
    as they say..
    NOW REAL
    PEACE as LOVE
    iS God theRe iS no
    room for anything
    but Love iN God
    that
    iS
    LOVE..
    Period..:)

    Reply

    • Unfortunately, based on my study of God’s Word, I cannot believe that all people, regardless of whether they accept or reject God, will go to heaven. If someone doesn’t want God here on earth, why would they spend eternity with Him? John 14:6 is clear. A choice must be made, as painful as it may be to see a loved one make the choice to reject God, or to not know what choice they made.

      Reply

      • That’s sad my friend.. And that is what relative free will gifted by God allows.. For humans to create hell here as a self-fulfilling prophesy and yes it is real.. already been to hell and live heaven now that the real humble Jesus promised is simply now for those who find tHeir way through the needle of now.. Hope your sister found that as God is not limited to words or other human symbols that are all approximate idols of God’s Full breath.. sMiles.. Hope and Love will always win over fear and hate as God’s rule of Nature with or without human idol words.. With due respect of course.. And SMiles.. As it works.. In practice..:)

  3031. Yes, we wonder IF we will have enough faith to accept the tough stuff…your second take has clarity. Thanks for sharing the struggles.

    Reply

  3032. The message is similar but not the same. As to the poetry I prefer the first. The effective use of rhyme, meter, and conciseness tightens the thought, and improves the power and passion of the text for me. Beautiful work, Linda.

    Reply

  3033. The first two lines do it for me. Will I have enough faith to trust God when He does not heal my wounds? Of course, because He works in mysterious ways. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

  3034. We do so often question and doubt….it seems the eternal paradox of faith. My taste lean towards take 1, but I have never been much of a structure guy.

    Reply

  3035. This hits home for me as I have, what I consider, a problem with coveting things that do not last. You are right in that they leave you empty in the end.

    Reply

    • I can relate. There was a time in my life when material things were much more important to me than they are now, though I do still like nice things, but find that God, people, and relationships are more fulfilling. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3039. I love the way you can write and share with such honesty. I know at times I hold back from the truly personal but am learning to open up more. Love your poems and I attend Quaker meetings with my Quaker husband. It seems ok to doubt there but to be very strong in faithful actions,

    Reply

    • Thank you. I’m learning to be bolder and more transparently honest in my writing. When I am, I seem to speak more deeply to others in a way that blesses them and me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3042. I prefer Take #2, for the message is not blurred by the rhyme schemes, & they become almost internal. I love the saying,”If you want to hear God laugh, make a plan.” I struggle with the realities of the tragedies we experience; my 3-week old grandson is in the hospital today.

    Reply

  3043. This message must be something God is trying to hammer into me. Last night at Mass, the sermon was about just this–using the story of Daniel and his companions in the fiery furnace. They trusted in God but were okay if he decided that they would end up crispy! Surrender. Arrgh.

    Reply

  3044. Can you indeed… the everlasting question? ever since Job, it’s a question asked… I learned it was called Theodicy once… and scholars have struggled with it for many years… I think I like your first take the better.

    Reply

  3046. Oh! The line breaks give such a lot of profound depth to this poem. Especially in awe of the closing lines. Beautifully penned 🙂

    Thank you so much for participating at Prompt Nights Linda.
    Lots of love,
    Sanaa

    Reply

  3059. I like how you managed to address the prompt without using the word…clever indeed. And so true, some never realize what was really important until it’s too late.

    Reply

    • It’s been a theme in my life this week — in our Sunday sermon and in BSF, plus some real life examples and opportunities to value people over things. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3064. How we learn (and some never do) which things are dear, and which are valueless things after time ~ I like the unique take on “empty hands” ~ Thanks for joining us Linda ~

    Reply

  3066. Ha! Okay… this one feels like what happens when you let the air out of a balloon and let it go flying about the room. It’s out of air but still fun to watch. Good for you for getting words down; that alone makes this a good poem. <3

    Reply

  3067. I think this is pretty good! Glad to know you are on Team Oxford Comma. We can definitely be friends. And two thumbs up on your observations on Chicago Manual of Style. 🙂

    Reply

  3073. In my family we call the pets our “fur kids”. I really enjoyed the lightness with witch you approached the prompt, considering so many of us weighed in on the darker side.

    Reply

  3074. This is my favorite section:
    “when the poor dog lost his left eye
    Nonetheless he is wicked smart
    and when he is wont to cry
    it breaks my heart”

    Sometimes our limitations can enhance our other gifts.

    Reply

  3075. “Some are great, some are worse…” I am curious as to which of your poems you adore, whether because they were fun/cathartic to write or because you liked how they turned out, and which ones you’d rather try again. I’d be interested in reading them.

    Reply

    • Okay, so here are some of my favorites of my own poems:
      Darkness to Light – I like this because it was the first I wrote that really showed how God had found me in my depression.
      Before the Throne – I like this one because it is so reverent and beautiful. It often runs through my head as I fall asleep at night.
      Cerulean Sky – Because it was cathartic to write.

      Ones I think need work include:
      The Spiritual Legacy of C.S. Lewis – Because I didn’t give it as much thought as I should have. I just kind of threw it together.
      Some of What I Know – This one just really doesn’t work for me, not sure why.
      Out of Words – This one is just silly. It filled the need to write a poem every day for NaPoWriMo, but that’s about it.
      And some of my older acrostic poems I don’t really like as much. They seem to forced.
      Anyway, I could add a lot more on both lists, but this is a good start. 🙂

      Reply

  3078. Well done! Animals are so fun and crazy and give unconditional love — even one eyed, or deaf, or a pup or a cat. We actually had a Siamese cat that fetched! 🙂 Enjoyed this one!

    Reply

  3079. “Fearless Love
    under WILL
    without harm
    to others”..
    a simple
    commandment
    as aLL that iS..
    from before now
    so complicated..
    reaSon enough
    iN FEELinG
    iN REAL to
    FORGIVE
    one’s
    self..
    AND aLL others too..
    whatever it takes
    to practice iT..
    WiLL
    Work
    as aLL hiStory
    SAges iN Truth
    and liGht arrive now..
    thiS UniVersal Solution…
    Oh by the way.. regarding
    that quote uP tHere.. iF one
    googles iT with enclosed quotes..
    one WiLL find out who says iT first..
    like that..
    at lEast…
    Different words..
    esSence oFTrUth
    and liGht UniVerSal..
    iN Christ as metaphor
    aS
    aLWays
    bEinG hUmanoW..:)

    Reply

  3082. Your poem reminded me of a number of dogs I have known and loved, one of them my best friend’s (unfortunately long-dead) one-eyed Dachshund, Goliath. He was a real character. Thank you for prompting some happy memories.

    Reply

  3085. That’s where my mind went at first…my dogs. And I’m so glad that’s where you took it. I have had a dog with cataracts, 3 who are deaf, and aren’t they resilient?!

    Reply

  3091. Excellent. Loved the way you used to words to write of a real-life situation. Your Roman sounds like quite the dog!

    Reply

  3097. That bit about some who are still in need of our prayers…and the list being in the bottom of a drawer…too true! Your chosen line was one that I debated using, but I couldn’t find the right way to use it. You did brilliantly with it.

    Reply

  3106. Intriguing peek into your notebook, Linda – I wonder what all of our notebooks would look like. Maybe that could be an idea for a future prompt? It’s a glimpse into a mind, heart and life, isn’t it?

    Reply

  3112. I am glad you wrote an extra poem for today, Linda; and you may be the ONLY poet who chose that particular line. And, yes, so many ideas go through one’s mind. And indeed so many prayers!

    Reply

  3115. When a poem hits you, it will haunt you till you sit with it. I’m glad you did. You can always read others later. I think we are both on Pacific Time so we usually are behind everyone anyway.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I haven’t had time to read yet. I shouldn’t have even taken work time to write this, but it wouldn’t let me concentrate on what needed to get done today. I’m looking forward to seeing what others have written.

      Reply

  3121. I am so sorry for your loss. It must have been hard to write this poem. I understand the forced grin all too well. An excellent poem.

    Reply

    • And because it’s 3 days before my son’s birthday — he turned 18 the year my sister died and will be 21 this year — I’m reminded of that balance between mourning loss and celebrating life that we all must walk.

      Reply

  3128. SMiLes.. my friend..
    8 years ago.. God gifted
    me with 40 sleepless
    days during the
    Lent period..
    1 hour each for
    the first 35 of
    shallow sleep
    with man-made
    alpha blocker..
    zero for the last
    5 of 40.. lesSon
    lEarned of Job..
    ha!.. after Hell.. i happily
    write literally hundreds of
    poems a week.. as nothing
    is too hard after REAL HELL…

    And then there
    was literally 66 months
    of worse than crucifixion pain..

    literally.. yes.. as assessed
    in Medical
    Literature..

    w/2fredkU..;)

    Reply

  3129. This is a powerful, meaningful little poem. I think a longer poem would not have had the impact. Perfect.
    I’m so sorry you lost your sister. Writing helps me with my losses- I hope it helps you too

    Reply

  3131. Not knowing the Choice that a loved one made (or didn’t make) is, perhaps, more painful than the loss of the person him/herself.

    Reply

  3140. “Oh, so sweet a thing is mercy
    Promised freedom from the penalty of sins”

    The heart of your poem for me Linda. Thank you for joining my prompt.

    Reply

  3144. I was halfway through this when I realized that it was a Sestina. Lovely, loving words that speak of your heart and faith…well done!

    Reply

  3146. I found your poem a beautiful meditation and I’m sure an excellent discussion point for Psalm 22. I get clearly a sense of your commitment and devotion.

    Reply

  3147. You so gently instruct as you let the words flow from your heart; Your faith is inspiring, especially for those of us on the outside looking in.

    Reply

  3154. Long ago I too did away with “giving up” and decided to “add on” something – whether it be prayer time or volunteering, etc. Giving of my time in some way – otherwise spent watching tv or whatever. Nice prose reflection and poem.

    Reply

  3155. A most worthwhile endeavor, Linda. And I rather like that you personalized the journey and made Lent something meaningful for you. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

  3156. It is truly less about “giving up” and more about giving. Giving your thoughtful reflection in poem is certain a lesson of itself. Thank you, Linda.

    Reply

  3157. A wonderful way to draw closer to Christ. You are absolutely right – giving something up does nothing for us spiritually if we don’t use that sacrifice to focus on Christ instead of on our self-righteousness.

    Reply

  3166. Bjorn is like a machine; no one can keep up with him. Very imaginative take on he prompt, Linda–too much hypocrisy connected to both religion & politics. I like your solution; good luck.

    Reply

  3167. Ah.. no sacrifice, but it does require some discipline to sit down every day to write something… Lent or not I do it every day… maybe my lent should be not to write… 🙂 Great thoughts here Linda… I think we should all take some time and give something up.

    Reply

  3168. I have a Christian mentor who’s turning 80 this year. She made a huge difference in my faith walk. I can’t imagine her not being part of my life so I understand your loss. And yes, it’s up to us to carry the torch and be the heroines of faith for the next generation.

    Reply

  3171. You did a great job of playing the role….I’ve heard it time and again also..one reaches a point when they want to go. It’s not easy just getting old, either. 😉

    Reply

  3173. Oh….this so reminds me of my mother in her last month or so. So tired of living and doing the mundane things of life for so many days, months, years after her Bud died. In the end, on her hospital bed, she just looked at me and said, “Lillian, I’m so tired.” and she closed her eyes and slept the sleep of ages. Connections — we are readers are drawn from words to our own thoughts and experiences. Thank you.

    Reply

  3176. Your poem really touched me. My grandmother said to me at 96…”There should be a limit to how long a person lives”, referring to her quality of life. We may never know why God chose to keep her here into her 98th year, blind, deaf and bedridden. She was a pastor’s wife too with very strong faith that I’m sure was tested in the end.
    A beautiful, heartfelt poem through the eyes of the elderly.

    Reply

  3177. So many of us touched by this wonderfully written narrative. Last July we drove to TX to visit my mother-in-law, & helped her celebrate her 90th birthday; three days later we got the call on our way home that she had passed. Her husband was a minister; she was ready.

    Reply

  3180. I do know that a certain time people really do have that desire to go ‘home.’ A cousin’s wife died of a long siege of Alzheimers a month or so ago, and my cousin said that she had felt this way…that she was indeed ready, very ready for life hereafter. On another note many years ago I had an aunt who was dying… Her birthday was coming. I traveled 100 miles to be with her to celebrate her birthday. Family was there with her. She had a bit of cake…but the next morning I got the phone call that she had passed away overnight. I TRULY believe that she waited to die until I (a favorite niece) had seen her… I do know that she was ready to go as well…..

    Reply

    • So glad you got to have the last birthday visit with your aunt. I visited my friend two weeks before she passed, and for the several weeks she was in the hospital she held on, but then when she came home to her daughter’s on her birthday that was it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3184. This made me weep. My mom is 86, fragile, and has Alzheimer’s. But she still remembers how much Jesus loves her and I know, when her time comes, she too will have the joy of that party from Jesus. the haunting refrain of I’m 95 just lifted this to such glorious heights.

    Reply

    • I’m glad this touched you so. The idea for the repeated refrain came from the last time I saw her and she asked me 4 times how my son was doing. She couldn’t remember what I had just said, but she remembered Jesus.

      Reply

  3187. I’m sad for your the loss of your friend. Prayers for peace and understanding for loved ones. … Your poem is very touching. I’m glad she got her final wish.

    Reply

    • Thank you. It is sad for us that she is no longer with us, but I am truly happy for her and know I will see her again. Plus, I’m certain she is still praying for me like she always did. 🙂

      Reply

  3189. This reminds me so much of our neighbor across the street from us when we were growing up. Mrs. Taylor lived to be 102 or 103, I can’t remember which but years before her death she would wonder out loud about being ready to go and when she did go she just wanted it to be Jesus and she in her room alone, no family members, when the time came. I don’t know if she got her wish or not.

    Reply

  3191. Sigh. I can relate to this poem, Linda, but for different reasons, as I’m half of the age of your poem’s protagonist. Wondering,, will I be greeted, by love ones, who have passed, before me. Thank you, for sharing this little part of your life.

    Reply

  3193. The “forevermore” echo reminds me of Poe’s reverse: quoth the raven, never more”. I do appreciate this poem — I’ve always said, there are a myriad of angels along the way.

    Reply

  3197. WOW. I felt the tension in this. My dad is a Physician Assistant, still practicing at age 72. Unfortunately, next year he has to take an intense 6-hour exam, computerized, to re-up his license. As one who has continually cared more about the patient than the now computerized charts, and tech systems, this will be challenging for him. It’s sad, really. Sometimes new is not better.

    Reply

  3200. Isn’t funny how we can flash back to those days so quickly. This is lovely, and you found such a great way to make use of your time! 🙂

    Reply

  3205. Old Indian rooms new..
    teepee medicine now..
    men and women
    caring heARts
    oF Great SpiRit
    free.. never
    leaving
    SoUL
    ever
    separating
    from God alWays
    here before and
    now again.. free..
    fearless iN
    God’s
    eYes
    aLiVe..
    alWaysN0W..:)

    Reply

    • Thanks. I have to confess I stole the “unseen angels” from the song Precious Memories, which I’ve been listening to by Patty Loveless. The mournfulness of that song and that phrase seemed appropriate of finish this poem.

      Reply

  3214. “If in His pain You looked away
    Left Him alone, where would be my source of hope
    How could I ever truly know sweet mercy…” Exactly. Amen. I love this poem. <3

    Reply

  3215. I was born on this day, and the Psalm reflects what I have always felt, known and believe from the beginning of my existence. I belong to God, always as I also know you are my sister! Inspiring poem, whose spiritual beauty can only come from withing the gift of eternal love he place within you. Always believe, always keep the faith, always be assured he will never leave or forsake those he loves! God bless!

    Reply

    • Thank you. I love Psalm 22 and it was recently that I zeroed in on verse 24 as refuting the idea I had heard and come to believe that God turned away from Christ on the cross because He couldn’t look on sin. But it occurred to me that if Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient to cover my sin now, wasn’t it sufficient to cover all of the sin while He hung on the cross so that all the Father saw was the sacrifice of love and not the sin. Why would He turn away from that? What an awesome and wonderful God we have. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3217. Linda, My name is Philip, your poem “flowers in bloom” captured my heart as an employee of a tree farm. I would like to use your poem on a post card and am seeking your permission to use it?

    Forever Grateful & touched by your words,
    Philip Polito V

    Reply

    • Hi Philip, I’m so glad you were blessed by this poem. And thank you for asking permission to use it in your post card. You may use it provided you attribute the poem to me and include the URL to this blog. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks. I’m really enjoying the daily focus on God for this season of Lent and writing something every day. They may not all be great, but the discipline brings forth some good ones like this.

      Reply

  3229. Perfect. Especially that middle section:

    “Turn your face, your heart
    in Me abide

    I am comfort
    for your grief
    I am the source
    of your relief

    It’s the evil one’s
    lies of despair
    That make you feel
    as if I don’t care”

    Reply

  3237. Very inspiring to read Linda ~ When one has walked and seen that darkness, we appreciate the light and love we have and see around us ~ Thanks for joining our Haibun Monday ~

    Reply

  3238. This is very powerfully written and so well crafted for such a personal and difficult time. Those rooms do haunt in a way but I like Mary’s poem when she writes about the room might sometimes pray. Thank you for sharing this and hope all can be at peace.

    Reply

  3240. This line is just so strong in an understated way: “I’m not a fan of hospitals or of cancer” Re: Bjorn’s comment, I think powerful poetry has a way of evoking emotions, perhaps memories of similar experiences that hit the reader in the gut. I would take it as a very strong compliment, because poetry is geared just for that.

    Reply

  3241. Those young ones, so vulnerable, are so easily hurt And there are those selfish, cruel persons who take advantage of that. I believe that, in some way, we all have our mistakes to make so that we can discover that there is One who loves us, no matter what.

    Reply

  3244. Answer iS simple
    my friend.. and so
    complex..
    hard
    as weLL..
    as aBove
    so beLow
    dark above
    light below
    liGht rises
    ouT oF dArk..
    friEnd noW oF
    liGht iS AlWays dARk..
    those maKinG God then
    Angel and Devil separate
    most often now
    fAil to
    fiNd
    greaTest
    liGht as DArk..
    but sure God iS
    God oF dArk and
    liGht ALL.. theRe is nOthing
    but free iN WorKinG for God
    iN both
    dARk
    and liGht
    Free as GOD..
    wILL PLeASE
    LiGht
    aS DArk..
    ALLN0W..:)

    Reply

  3245. Powerful. The hospital room, its stainless steel, its white sheets, its beeping machines and then not beeping. Excellent description of a room we never want to occupy….not like this.

    Reply

  3251. Thank you for sharing such a personal part of yourself and that room where you waited for your sister to pass, Linda. As I read your poem, I thought about my five siblings and how I couldn’t bear to see one of them go. But when our loved ones are seriously ill with no hope of recovery, we can’t bear them suffering either. I’m sorry that you lost your sister, Linda, you have my condolences.

    Reply

  3254. I’m so glad you posted this memory, in all of its detail. We can all relate to such rooms and such events. You have captured it simply and powerfully, and you took me right there, to that final breath.

    Reply

  3255. What an honest poem. It comes over like a bull at a red flag. Sorrows to you for having a ‘Dick’ in the family. Not easy. I rate your poem highly.

    Reply

    • Actually, I feel sorry for Dick. He was so hopeless after Peggy died that he shot himself a month later. Conversations I had with Peggy in the weeks before showed me she had much more hope than he did. And for that I’m glad. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3257. This is a very moving and sad poem, Linda! It is very hard to lose a sibling and I am sorry you lost your sister. I think she knew then how much she was loved by those who surrounded her.

    Reply

  3258. Linda, you have really given us the feeling of that room, as well as your whole experience there. I was struck with the way you expressed how the dying process really changes a person. I was also struck by the way you described how quiet descended into the room!

    Reply

  3259. Linda this is so powerful and emotional… I have tears in my eyes when I read this, this has to be the favorite poem I have read from you… and I really like how you focused on the room when you wrote it, it added that extra layer making it great.

    Reply

    • Thanks, I think. I’m not sure if being able to make someone cry about the death of someone they didn’t know is a compliment, but I suppose it was meant as one, so I’ll take it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3262. The season of Lent, a time for reflection. A different kind of waiting from the sweet anticipation of Advent — but still a time of waiting. For the first time since I was young, I participated in an Ash Wednesday service. Somehow, at this point in my life, I found it comforting to go back to that very old ritual and its words. A good poem here…..

    Reply

  3264. If there was no suffering I don’t think anyone would ever think of Him seriously…such pain is given only to turn and move towards Him…He does love us yet we don’t, as we’re busy with our mundane life…The Son of Man said to leave everything and follow Him but who is doing that?…your poem is very thought provoking and deeply spiritual…we have to knock with our doubts and the door will open…

    Reply

  3269. I think we all have doubts and that is part of the journey to finding ones self the road was never promised to be easy. I have had my share of pain.

    Reply

  3270. I was going to comment along the lines of Bjorn’s comment. I don’t think doubting or questioning makes us less faithful or committed. It is a valid part of our journey. You brought up good points in your poem, Linda. Thank you for trying the rondel!

    Reply

    • I think honest doubting is better than false certainty. At the end of the day I come to the certainty that God is sovereign and God is good, and I still don’t understand why many things happen.

      Reply

      • We’re all in the same boat. None of us understand a lot of why things happen the way they do. It’s an individual decision as to how we process that.

    • I totally agree! That is the direction the poetry will be going for this 40 days of Lent. But sometimes those hurting just need to know someone else asks “why” too.

      Reply

  3275. The only thing that makes sense out of our faith despite the severity, trauma, & pain we experience and/or witness, is tough love. We asked for this life as spirit, & we can not be coddled or spared the bumps & tragedies along the way back to Him.

    Reply

    • So true. I do know that the suffering I’ve experienced has brought me closer to Him out of great need. Without it I’d probably be arrogant and proud, thinking I didn’t need Him at all. Yet coming to grips with the “why” questions in our hearts is an important part of this journey of life. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3278. This works so well with the form and that expresssion–spiritual drought–so real at times. This morning, I had the thought of trying for a poem a day during Lent–a positive practice, for sure.

    Reply

    • I’ve done the poem a day for Lent twice before, and I loved it. I think it was in the middle of the first time that my sister Peggy died, and I probably would have just quit writing at that point if I hadn’t made that commitment. Instead, I wrote about my emotions surrounding her death and I’m so glad I did.

      Reply

  3280. This is sort of like the prayer I pray everyday which goes something like this: “Lord, show me if I have an attitude or sin that would disqualify me from fulfilling Your divine plans and redemptive purposes for my life. Then, give me the grace to change.

    Reply

  3290. Wow! Different take on the word “lull” and very very effective! We can be lulled by so many things in today’s crazy world. Very well done!

    Reply

    • I’m not a fan of dusting, either, though I recently reorganized my bedroom library space and dusted a few books and book shelves. I’ve picked up and started reading at least two of those now-dusted books. 🙂

      Reply

  3302. Book signed by
    Pope.. XPriest
    Grandfather’s
    Book.. Yellow
    Boy sits
    atop
    book..
    wife
    says
    scram..
    i say..
    if Yellow
    Boy is not
    that book
    there is no
    God but pages
    in a book.. that’s
    a parable my friend
    and more than
    simple
    imagery
    reServed
    for now..:)

    Reply

  3303. Sadly I have a stack of books that are gathering dust…my reading has taken a back seat to writing lately. But I’ll be dusting them off soon. 🙂

    Reply

  3309. Hi there! I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed this blog post of yours… Not just this one but all of them because they are all equally great.

    I should mention that because of how much I loved this post of yours I had to check out your blog and I couldn’t help but follow you because your blog is both amazing and beautiful. I am so happy I came across your blog and found it because I do really love it and I truly can’t wait to read more from you, so keep it up (:

    P.s. This comment is towards all of your blog posts because they are all equally amazing and incredible, keep up the great work (:

    Reply

    • Thank you for your kind comment. I just had to rescue it from my spam folder — I have no idea why it ended up in there — but I’m glad I decided to go check it. 🙂 Thanks for following my blog. I look forward to checking out yours. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3317. sMiLes.. dancing with
    Jesus.. iS a fine way to
    move.. sadly many folks
    talk the talk.. but never ever
    truly dance the dance of Jesus
    danCinG iN Truth and liGht..
    setting uS free..
    am i an only
    one seeing
    yoUr
    dance
    partner..
    heir apparent..:)

    Reply

  3319. A lovely psalm you’ve written here. I especially like this line
    “My refuge from the storms within and without”
    and the words “I will rest in you…”

    I have a dear friend in the throes of ovarian cancer and in her blog, she writes that the prayers of others hold her aloft like a cushion surrounding her, softening the daily hardships.

    I will rest in you…..these words have been echoed by her many times. She gains a calm and serenity from her spiritual beliefs. Your psalm speaks of this.

    Thank you for sharing.

    Reply

    • Sometimes we can’t do much about the storms without (like getting cancer) but God gives peace within in spite of those storms. I’m glad you enjoyed my psalm. Feel free to share with your friend if you think it would bless her. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3323. I found myself singing the words. I know it wasn’t written to music but I had to grab my violin and play it while reading again. King David truly was a great and inspired poet. You wrote a perfect psalm here and it ending in hope and peace truly brought the love and intention of the psalms to us. thank you.

    Reply

  3325. Oh.. one of my favorite
    things to do is
    wriTinG
    psalmlets
    oF Nature..
    wheRe God lives
    everywHere aLL at
    one now.. so comforting
    to be here now aLL wITh GOD..
    and nicely expresSinG
    sentiments
    of God.. you
    bRinG here
    as weLL.. my
    friend..:)

    Reply

  3326. “As I read several favorite Psalms this morning I was also struck by how they often switch from speaking directly to God to speaking about Him to another…”

    And also, how often the psalmist switches to God speaking directly to him and to others. Psalm 91 quickly comes to mind. Great psalm!

    Reply

  3329. I like that you were inspired by a psalm and wrote your own in response. You managed to work in both lament and praise well. Your last stanza really imparts a sense of peace to the reader.

    Reply

  3332. Beautiful Psalm poem.

    My favorite lines your created:

    O Lord, You are my Hope when all seems hopeless
    My refuge from the storms within and without

    I can relate to this so much. You’ve brought peace and harmony in our thoughts. Love this poem and greatly written. 🙂

    Reply

  3334. Linda, this is a beautiful Psalm, indeed. It’s been a long time since I wrote one, and I believe you’ve inspired me. 🙂 The praise/lament cycle is one of the reasons I love them, also. They mirror my own heart.

    I love your sound bump with Peace/cease. So lovely.

    Reply

  3341. SMilEs.. my friend..
    i did not speak
    until age four..
    how fortuNate
    am i to
    sPeak
    to God
    before
    words
    of
    human
    at age 3..
    and sTill
    inside..
    outside..
    above.. so
    below.. all around
    me now.. alWays
    God alwaYs NOW..:)

    Reply

  3344. Linda,

    As a person who used to pray every morning, “Lord, kill me. Just kill me,” I know He will answer your prayer. You will die daily, and yes, it will be painful until Galatians 2:20 becomes a reality in your life. It is worth it!

    Reply

    • Thanks. Christ does live in me and helps me see things from His perspective. I do know He will answer my prayers when the time is right. I write about my struggles with impatience to hopefully help others who struggle, too.

      Reply

  3346. Linda, I’m in your boat. Waiting, praying, trusting for Change to happen in a loved one’s life. Were it not for HOPE….
    That’s why I love Psalm 27:13…”I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living. 14Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.”

    Reply

    • I’m going through a similar time as well with a loved one. There’s absolutely nothing I can do to fix it. All I have is hope. All I have is prayer. All I have is Jesus. I love the verse you shared. It helps me to hold on to that hope and to wait patiently for the Lord.

      Reply

  3363. I think you have the form down and it is new to me.
    Life will be easier once I die
    but I must confess this to be a lie

    haha – a little lie here and there…this was fun to read..

    Reply

  3365. I admire the twist in the last line ~ Sometimes too much thinking and worrying about the future can be too much ~ Finding the balance is the key ~

    Good work on the form Linda ~ Happy week ~

    Reply

  3371. Ah, the unexpected snow. Here in Boston, we had unseasonably warm weather for so long that trees were indeed blossoming….and now they’re caught in the cold. I do like how the haiku brings us back to the hope of spring and new life…….that recurrence and the positive promise.

    Reply

  3376. I like how your mood brightens a little at the glimpse of those unexpected blooms. As for treacherous ice – my mother slipped on it a few days ago and banged her head, so I completely understand your dismay!

    Reply

  3381. Black ice, car wrecks, falls with broken bones, hyperthermia, 3 hour commutes, all too much to pay for a few minutes of aesthetic appreciation. nice job on the prompt.

    Reply

  3384. I hope your winter isn’t as grim as you fearing. Ice does sound terrible though. Over here in Australia I have no experience of it but your haibun really makes me aware of the danger.

    Reply

      • Lucky you! We just finally got some cold weather this week. I hope it is here to stay a bit as our spring bulbs need the cold weather for their blooming process. And yes, a snow would be wonderful!

      • No, you don’t understand, it was terrible! We had only a few hours of nice snow, and then we had freezing rain and sheets of ice everywhere. So glad it is over and hope we don’t have any more. 😉

  3394. It’s so hard when we lose our beloved pets. Sounds like Bette had a nice, long life with a most devoted partner. The ending was so sweet.

    Reply

  3398. This poem resonates with me like no other. Many many young people in France smoke and I long to point out my ruined heart and arteries due to the years when I too was a smoker. Nearly 30 years on, I relish the absence of smoke stink in cars and public buildings, being able to see the screen in the cinema without the fog of smoke.

    Reply

  3401. I must admit that I do wonder how people in this day and age can still smoke knowing what it can do to you. I too grew up around smokers although both parents did eventually give it up. But my grandfather smoked, uncles, aunts and even boyfriends. Now, I have no tolerance for the smell.

    Reply

  3402. Some people have a more heightened sense of smell I am sure but also what we believe influences that sense. I like the smell of cigarettes. I was an occasional smoker for some years but have not bothered much in the past decade although every couple of years I might ‘bot’ one and still enjoy it.

    Some people can smoke and not suffer healthwise. I know many people who have poor health who have never smoked and many who have always smoked in good health. One took up long-distance walking, across countries, in her Sixties!

    It really is about moderation and what works for your body. I have lived enough decades to know that smoking per se: does not lead to poor health. The biggest issue is really the quality of the cigarette, i.e. the chemicals it contains. Tobacco is a herb. And if you look at countries and regions with the best longevity they are all countries with high smoking levels, Japan being a classic example.

    So, I am not encouraging smoking, just saying, it is perspective at the end of the day and condemning others for smoking is projection. 🙂

    Reply

  3403. Can’t stand the smell of this & I would rather stay away too~ More and more its an addiction and I am happy to see that there’s less ads for it and more people being health conscious ~ Happy New Year Linda ~

    Reply

  3404. Even though your subject was serious you did a fabulous job with the prompt… Pulling out memories evoked by that smell. My sons both smoke though I never have and it breaks my heart. A very heartfelt poem.

    Reply

  3405. i remember riding home on college break with a chain smoker…sore throat and watery eyes, choking on the miles. But i admit i liked the smell of my grandpa’s pipe (although he later suffered stomach cancer).

    Reply

    • Yea, a pipe is a completely different scent than a cigarette, although I’m not a fan of it either. The hardest part for me is knowing they both would have probably lived long enough to know my son if they hadn’t smoked.

      Reply

  3406. SMiLes.. my friend..
    smoke and second
    hand smoke can be
    the terror that keeps giving
    too.. for me.. two decades working
    in a Military Bowling Center with
    literally hundreds of folks lit
    up every day..
    me a non-smoker
    sucking it up
    and sucking
    it in..
    the price
    of that potentially
    part of the reason
    for chronic inflammation of
    swelling mucousal linings
    of sinuses impinging on
    nerve endings
    associated
    with
    the worse
    pain known to
    mankind.. actually
    assessed as worse
    than crucifixion from
    wake to sleep
    66 months..
    as type
    two
    Trigeminal
    Neuralgia..
    Life’s not
    fair..
    but
    i learned
    THE MOST from pain..
    the dArkest of
    smoke from
    cigarette
    butts
    ended up
    likely now
    being a ticket
    to never ending
    liGht.. yes it
    is most
    definitely
    True.. God works
    in mysterious ways
    and the gift of JOB
    can tRuly be a
    greaTesT gift
    of all when
    one understands
    that ALL IS GOD..
    INCLUDING DARK..:)

    Reply

  3407. thanks for your poem .
    it really help me .you please made more poems on another poem .your poem is very useful…..
    I really thanks you

    Reply

  3409. SMiLes.. someone(s)
    once write(s) a/some book(s)
    and missed/misses is/are miSsinG
    God’s NOW
    Unconditional
    Love Smile(s)
    iN Stars..
    skEyes
    and clOUds
    of dArk now(s)
    uncoverRinG
    frOwns noW..
    sMiles aGain..
    as God never
    Leaves @ALL..
    iS alWays heRe
    beGinNinG
    and end
    BeGiNs
    a
    GaiN
    alWays
    NOW..:)

    Reply

  3410. Interestingly.. 13 Star
    of David alignments
    brighten the skies
    from 1990
    until
    2013
    and on
    July 22nd
    a so-called
    Golden Child
    appears in England..
    but i suppose when Jesus
    is born.. he requires no fanfare…:)

    Reply

  3416. Oh Linda! Two wonderful poems! and I so enjoy you were inspired by another’s poems that was linked. This is what is wonderful about poetry – how we share and inspire each other. I think those stars must have been so inspiring to see them as you did. Thank you.

    Reply

  3422. This is delightful. Reminds me a bit of the story that we are reading with our kids right now, “Ishtar’s Odyssey” by Arnold Ytreeide…it’s the tale told from the perspective of the son of one of the Magi. The author ends each chapter with a nice little lesson…so an excellent book for Advent devotions.

    Reply

  3424. This is very touching, Linda. You describe the enormity of the occasion as well as the humbling circumstances so beautifully. A lovely tribute to that most brightest of stars.

    Reply

  3426. So I did not know this story – the gift of Magi is my only link to this honestly. And am I glad 🙂 I take something new with me this Christmas!

    Reply

  3429. I always liked the Magi following the star, how it led them. How from the beginning and the creation of the stars, it was all planned just for us. I enjoyed this.

    Reply

  3434. This brought back memories of my neighbours and I putting on nativity plays for our parents when we were children and we would always fight over who got to play which of the Three Kings. In German-speaking countries they are called Kasper, Melchior and Balthazar and everyone wanted to be Balthazar for some reason (I think because the other two names had some funny associations). And when singing the carol, we all wanted to have the rather somber verse ‘myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume/ spreads a light of gathering gloom…’
    Sorry, that’s not very helpful comment on your poem, I seem to be stuck in remembering Christmas traditions mode.

    Reply

  3435. We went to a Mannheim Steamroller concert a couple of weeks ago and when they played “We Three Kings,” they had a visual of real desert nomads making their way across the desert. It showed them in different aspects of their journey, such as sitting around a campfire. I don’t know, for me, it just made the whole experience so “real”–for lack of a better word.

    Reply

  3437. Question.. truly
    is.. if i tELL you i
    am here
    now..
    will you
    believe me..
    and no i am
    not
    talKinG
    about
    me..
    Jesus lives
    iN heArt as Christ..
    noW.. alWays.. just.. now.. then..
    by note of Luke 17:21.. now..
    wHere we live
    is up
    to
    uS WitH
    God or not
    now.. just now.. too..
    if ‘we’ come again..
    or ever
    come
    @
    aLL.:)

    Reply

  3441. We all rejoice when any of us achieve publication; congrats. Your faith is certainly the flagship of your poetic journey.

    Reply

  3447. I was specially struck by this line: Even so the so-called peaceful want their peace by force ~
    I appreciate the spiritual message Linda ~ Peace to you too ~

    Reply

  3448. So true, despite our songs for peace we venture closer to hatred’s door. I cannot remember a time when there was so much venom in the world. Maybe I have just forgotten…but I do hope there is somehow a way that we can coexist.

    Reply

    • I agree we must keep His promises in the forefront of our minds daily. In this study of Revelation I’ve been seeing God’s grace in the warnings of what’s to come, which is comforting even when there seems to be no peace around me, there can be peace within.

      Reply

  3451. I hope we can all have peace at sometime but … until we have true peace in our hearts and open our hearts to the Prince of Peace, it just isn’t going to happen.

    Reply

  3456. Ha, ha, ha! I’m sure Oregonians are like the English – no need to have hoods or umbrellas, you’re not made of sugar, you won’t melt in a few drops of rain… A charming, tongue-in-cheek take on the prompt. And very succinct too, unlike me!

    Reply

  3457. Smiles.. humans
    never fear the
    rain until they
    gain
    clothes..
    before that
    it is a joy
    to beat
    the
    sweltering
    heat.. and
    of course to
    drink.. as life
    giving 90% of
    what we are
    in
    flesh..
    AND
    blood..

    Old dreams
    of Rain
    Simply Life..:)

    Reply

  3459. Living up the road from you near Tacoma, I hear where you’re coming from. I have two umbrellas in my car, had them for 10 years & have never opened either of them; gortex jackets with big hoods & ball caps do it for me. To the ghost lady in TX, I have to say that when it finally does rain there it floods everything.

    Reply

  3461. This reminds me of Scotland. I spent a whole school year there and since I did not have a car had to walk quite a lot. The irst thing I bought was an umbrella!

    Reply

  3462. A most humorous haibun! I don’t usually worry about rain because I wear my hair in a single braid and I don’t wear make up….I’m glad you spotted that one Oregonian in the crowd of prissy pots!

    Reply

  3463. I wish it was raining here instead of cold icy winter~ I like my big umbrellas if it rains and I can’t just have a rain jacket ~ Love the sea of umbrellas and a little rain doesn’t hurt for sure ~

    Reply

  3464. haha…good one! We never see many umbrellas here where I am in Tx either. I think it’s because we so seldom see any rain, we forget we have one, or forget where we put it 😉

    Reply

  3465. Ah, I think people in Washington State and Oregon are used to such rain. They hardly bat an eye with it. They are ‘good to go’ in any kind of weather!

    Reply

  3469. Gift of Dog..
    no different
    than God living
    now never complaining..
    just living.. Life is God
    and Dog
    Lives
    whatever
    comes.. alive..
    Soldier of Living.. Dog..
    All God’s children free..:)

    Reply

  3470. oh i’m so sorry to hear that
    and i can imagine how much you would want to be able to go back in time and make a different decision. hugs for you and praying that all goes well

    Reply

  3472. Linda, I am sure whatever choices you made for your dog were made out of love. I am sure your dog knows this too. Your dog will adjust & love you just the same.

    Reply

  3474. Taken like a prayer one gets into that frame of mind of craving for solace and peace. Such elements are easily conceived by those relevant and sincere but elusive to those who are evil. Great linesLinda!

    Hank

    Reply

  3477. It’s really simple.. my
    friend.. none of us are
    in a place of judgement
    to judge anyone else..
    in a personal way
    of eternal
    condemnation..
    as only God knows
    and fills our shoes.. and
    those shoes of
    destinies
    as well.. as
    they come
    and as they go..
    So be it as is
    with
    God’s hand of paiNt.. Now..
    the greaTest Lover of God
    will play the role of Devil
    if that is the test
    to submit to
    GOD..
    my friend..
    the lessons of
    the ages are beyond
    human comprehension
    as well.. so we are in no
    place to judge a ‘devil’ either..
    God’s rules always apply now
    as all
    that
    is..:)

    Reply

  3478. Linda, as Bjorn said, you were really inspired. Excellent message in this poem. We all need to contemplate grace, and your poem points us in the right direction.

    Reply

  3479. You did a wonderful job with the form, and of course, with the topic. I think we may be surprised to find persons we have condemn to hell in our little way have been saved and that some you seem so perfect well… Who knows I think we may be surprised to find persons we have condemn to hell in our own little way have been saved and that some who seem so perfect well… Who knows? God does!

    Reply

  3480. Grace becomes even more precious when one considers that Jeffrey Dahmer most likely gave his life to Jesus before he died. A prison preacher named Roy Ratcliff vouches for the story. As far as Hitler goes, I haven’t heard any good stories about him.

    Great poem.

    Reply

    • I had not heard that about Dahmer. Thanks for sharing. And there’s still hope for the terrorists. Jesus converted Saul to Paul – He’s kind of a miracle worker. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3484. Smiles.. the best way to worship
    Jesus is to worship the
    Christ within..
    and express it with
    the greatest light
    of lamp
    that lives
    as you..
    my friend..
    sadly some people
    wait for Christ when it is
    a Universal metaphor of
    the Spirit of the Universe of All
    and beyond.. AKA GOD that lives within..
    If Jesus knew today.. that people were
    worshipping his person rather than
    these Universal Teachings..
    quite frankly
    he would disappointed
    that no one ever really
    heard and practices the
    words
    that are same
    as Luke 17:21..
    in essence in
    the Kingdom of
    God lives
    within
    my friend..
    inside.. outside
    above.. so below
    and all around.. AKA
    ALLTHATIS WHERE
    GOD’S NAME
    IS
    FREEDOM
    AS GOD IS FREE
    AND SO ARE WE
    WHO TRULY
    HERE THE
    UNIVERSAL message..
    the same one taught
    by many throughout
    the ages.. from
    mythical Thoth..
    Krishna.. the
    real man Lao TZU..
    Buddha.. and yes..
    the original Yeshua
    still living in the
    text of Luke
    whomever scripted
    the words of Truth and
    Light of essence my friend..
    there is no separation and
    no limit to how many more teachers
    on other planets.. have related this
    same Truth and Light in essence
    as we are all
    one blanket
    of Love
    with GOD..
    the day that Yeshua’s
    message is lived more
    than he is worshipped as
    a human being.. will be
    when the world
    becomes one
    in Universal
    essence
    of Truth
    and Light..
    but hey.. we
    can do it now as
    heaven then in the Kingdom
    of God within us.. as Heaven
    now the real place Jesus is
    speaking
    of then..
    my friend
    with Love
    and doing our
    best in to making
    Jesus our prophet
    in healing rather
    than just
    another
    Quarter
    back of a football team
    to be worshipped as a man
    or God
    separated from
    the rest of us..:)

    Reply

    • Jesus alone is worthy of worship and praise. Revelation 5:11-14 says, “11 Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. 12 In a loud voice they were saying:

      “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain,
      to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength
      and honor and glory and praise!”
      13 Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying:

      “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
      be praise and honor and glory and power,
      for ever and ever!”
      14 The four living creatures said, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and worshiped.”
      Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Smiles.. My friend.. Revelation is a metaphor not to be taken literally.. unless you will my friend.. But all i ask of you really is.. to never worship me if anyone mistakes i.. As I.

      • I’m actually in an in-depth study of Revelation right now. While some is metaphor, I believe the throne of God is quite real, described by John in words we can relate to, certainly not adequately enough to do God justice. But fear not, I will never worship you or any other created being. God alone is worthy. Peace, Linda

      • Smiles.. My friend.. I’ve studied revelation.. The bible and all associated religious texts for five decades.. But frankly zero of that was necessary.. as the same God that lives within me and you is always worthy of worship.. It is when we worship the human ego in all forms of I of separation from the truth of light of God that we become separated.. Truly the measure of God in most human beings is the flame in light of eyes that is Universal for those who seek and see with eyes of God and truly that is not something that words alone are adequate to communicate.. but we try my friend with discernment as gift from.. God.. As well.. But anyway from the New Testament as revised now from 40 years since the death of Jesus from oral tradition then.. it is abundantly clear that he the man never wanted to be the King of any human or worshipped.. In fact it is reported that this humble man Jesus clearly states there will be others who do far greater things than he.. And this my friend is the true test of all authentic prophets.. Humility and Love.. Then Constantine.. The Emperor of Rome with the help of early Catholic Cohorts… In 325 AD.. Made Jesus into a soldier Sun God in alignment with the Mithra religion of the regional area to expand the Roman Empire.. Per the human tribal instinct.. And Constantine followed suit by constructing a monolithic statue of himself to join his promotion of Jesus to a Sun God to be worshipped.. All these people fail the test of true prophet.. My friend.. Like the real Yeshua.. A self proclaimed humble teacher as healing prophet.. But you see this elevates Jesus even higher in achievement as human no greater or less than you my friend and i..

        And interestingly and true too.. If not for Constantine.. And His Catholic Cohorts.. The Truth and Light that exists in the bible as is.. Would likely never exist as is now.. So lesson here again.. Only for God’s eyes for judgement.. My friend..:)

  3485. You did a wonderful work with this – a lovely interpretation of Isaiah. You like this form and I can see it likes you as well. Thank you. Lifted my heart on a grey soul day.

    Reply

    • This was actually inspired by Revelation 4 & 5, but Isaiah does touch on the throne room of God as well. Glad I could provide you with a spiritual lift today. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • It made me think of Isaiah in the temple and the cherubim and seraphim there, how his lips were burned by the coal to purify him….the singing, holy holy holy….and Chris Tomlin…holy is the Lord God almighty, the earth is full of His glory…an excellent reminder in these troubled times.

  3487. It’s an intriguing fomr, isn’t it – there’s a majesty and melody in the internal and end-of-line rhyme, which you really do justice to with your subject as well.

    Reply

  3489. A fetching prayer & absolutely perfect rendering of the form; we must never lose sight of our humanity or spirituality. What troubles me is the over a billion people who pray to Allah as well, & are all being demonized by the radical minority.

    Reply

    • I appreciate your comment. I would not demonize those who pray to Allah, but I also believe that their faith is misplaced. Muslims are either trying to earn their salvation by their own peacful good works (which admittedly many who call themselves Christians mistakenly do as well) or they are trying to earn their way to heaven by killing infidels in the name of Allah. Either way, they are relying on their own efforts. Our efforts will never be sufficient for a holy God and I believe we must each trust in His saving grace alone. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3498. Time only covers the pain with a light bandage, but the wound underneath never quite goes away. It’s wonderful though that you find bits of your Dad in your son…

    Reply

      • I never knew my birth father…he was killed in WWII when I was 3 months old. And my adopted father died just before my kidney transplant–I had to leave to give blood for my surgery and that’s when he died. I do believe that some people choose to die alone. I’ve seen it so often in my work. The family may stay 24/7 with them and leave to use the restroom and they slip away!

      • My situation was that my dad called and asked me to come see him in California. I bought a ticket for two weeks out, not realizing he was so close to the end, and he died a week later. I should have just hopped on a plane and spent that last week with him.

  3502. Aww, how sweet, he sounds like a wonderful dad! You’re blessed to have had such s close relationship. Beautiful memories and lovely poem.

    Thank you for your nice comment on my blog. You asked about my dog’s name. It was Al (my pal Al). Smiles 🙂

    Reply

  3504. Oh, Linda, that is one powerful poem. I feel so strongly the missing you feel for your dad. I think it must be especially hard since there is no physical place where you can visit and also that there was no church service to commemorate his passing. I am so glad you found time to do this prompt.. This IS a poem worth having written.

    Reply

  3509. I always love hearing of nurturing parents and you were fortunate to have a father such as you describe, Linda. I’m sorry for your loss, and happy for your faith that comforts you.

    Reply

  3510. Oh Linda – how much of you shared in this, even though it was about your father. He sounds an amazing man and how wonderful the traces of him that appears in your son. And yes, it is wonderful we all will meet again.

    Reply

  3511. Sadly.. the message of
    Jesus can be
    completely
    missed unless
    his prophecy
    of folks
    after him..
    yes.. doing
    much more..
    comes true..
    i trust
    Jesus
    on this
    one as
    completely
    already true..
    and still now coming
    true to save the world..:)

    Reply

  3512. You’re right, we should not be surprised by the evil man is bent toward…evidence of our sin-full hearts and need of transformation!

    Reply

  3513. Hello, My name is David Ramos. I am a fellow Christian author like yourself. I noticed you review books sometimes on your blog (The Robe) and wanted to see if you would be interested in doing a swap.

    I would send you my book (Climbing with Abraham) so you could review it and in exchange I would review your most recent book (Light in my Darkness) on both my blog and on Amazon.

    Let me know if you are interested! Have a blessed day!

    David
    http://www.ramosauthor.com/books/

    Reply

    • David, I would be happy to review your book, but I would prefer if you would review my upcoming book, which will be out by next week. It is another book of poetry that is for the holidays of the church year, from Advent through Easter and to Thanksgiving. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3521. Well, I never thought I’d see ‘smartphone’ in a trimeric – but why not, after all, it seems to have become the most important part of some people’s lives?! So is your holiday poetry book going to be just for Christmas, or cover all holidays? Tell us more.

    Reply

  3526. You ain’t afraid of no trimeric; nice results. Very imaginative spectrum of climate & geography captured within specific form. Winter is a time of my discontent as Shakespeare noted. I could dig just leap-frogging over it & go directly to spring. Of course some snow bunnies & skiers would not appreciate it for sure.

    Reply

  3527. What a super use of this form for your weather report! Playful, reveling…I’ll add about the Southerners who do not sweat but glow in the heat and drown themselves with iced tea and lemonade and say without that heat, you can’t get the best summer tomatoes! Good job!

    Reply

  3531. Internal thermometer
    inside generating
    sweat to cool
    blood to warm..
    weather comes
    humans adapt
    or not in clothes
    of fur or
    fur of
    flesh
    smiles shorts
    for me year ’round
    snow or not but never
    less than eighteen degrees
    of accommodating challenge..:)

    Reply

  3532. The trimeric served your ideas very well, Linda. We all have our different weather patterns to contend with…none controllable, I like how you described a few of those.

    Reply

  3533. No one, it is its own master ~ Of all the seasons, I dread the winter the most as its pretty harsh here on my part of the world ~

    Thanks for playing along Linda and wishing you a good week ~

    Reply

    • Winter is my least favorite season as well. The ice and snow stanza was inspired by my Montana niece’s pictures of her kids playing in their first paltry snow of the year. If it was me, I’d be inside by the fire.

      Reply

  3535. Love how you used this fun form and took us on a mini-tour of the West. We checked out Oregon before moving here from the Bay Area–there was a drought that year (92-93). Beautiful State…but a scarcity of jobs back then (even for nurses).

    Reply

  3536. Seems no one can control the weather, but whatever we have I like your idea of reveling in it, basking in it, playing in it! Ha, one thing we can’t do is run away from it.

    Reply

  3537. I like your clever line breaks too which brings a double meaning of the words that you chose, Linda. I hope that you will find the peace that you are searching for.

    Reply

  3538. Thank you, Linda, for this reminder that we are loved and forgiven! I need to hear that today too. Somehow I had gotten unsubscribed to your blog . ..gonna fix that now! God bless!

    Reply

    • So good to have you visit. I miss visiting your blog every day. I seem to be less consistent with my blogging and blog reading than I used to be. But I think of you often. I’m about to publish my second poetry book, and you were my original inspiration to write poetry. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3544. Your hyphens lead us to the next line and don’t let the words really separate — so it is safer than other enjambments. I get safe. My hope is that we all find “wholesome” , “giving”, “forgiving” and “knowing” love here and now, and don’t despair thinking in only awaits us after we are dead.

    Reply

      • I totally understand. Things going on with my husband’s health and last Monday had to have my cat put to sleep. I took the week away from the writing, although I did write a haibun for my boy. Sometimes life is hard but at least we have an excellent Shoulder to lean upon.

  3547. Very deeply meaningful! Your line breaks meant something. I especially like the last stanza. Indeed He knows all (and does forgive).

    Reply

    • This was my favorite, also. Such an original thought, and line break.
      Really, each of these line breaks brings its own meaning to the short line, and then to the longer line below it, as well as the word brought together, combined. This is a beautiful piece, by the way. So much truth here.

      Reply

    • It seems a few people are confused and think that I actually have a living daughter, but I don’t. The daughter referred to in the poem is the one I aborted. The poem is a way of recognizing that she is still my child even though she never lived. I’m looking forward to meeting her one day in heaven. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • On rereading your poem, I am surprised I misunderstood as your words are clear. Cindy Lou is a happy name, and hopefully, has brought you peace.

  3558. It sounds like you have moved towards making peace with your decision. I like her name, Linda, and I like your tribute to her and your daughter.
    Peace…

    Reply

  3565. Good point, Linda. God designed sex… his plan for sex is the BEST!! We can avoid a lot of heartache and disease by doing it his way…in marriage.

    Reply

  3566. The Apostle Paul dealt with sexual issues in the Greek cities where he planted churches. So, it’s not a new phenomenon, just same-o, same-o, with Satan trying to pervert God’s plans for mankind.

    Reply

  3570. What a talented son you have and what work he put into this assignment finding all the right phrases to add up to this thrilling poem. The result is brilliant and you have true poet as your offspring! But knowing (pre)teens I think you can be even more proud of how he dedicated himself to this assignment!

    Reply

  3571. my religious beliefs are a bit different, but I would like to say I love the first two lines and sentiment, and I think it’s a very common experience. So it’s good to see faith and belief (in whatever) helping to overcome those feelings.

    Reply

  3576. I am so (beyond) glad to see the numerous poems being written about Jesus in our class (Writing 201) It is a powerful quiet move of God. Hope to keep up with you 🙂 Blessings.

    Reply

    • He is one of my favorite subjects. I’m hoping to find time over the weekend to read more of other’s poems so I will look for the ones about God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3577. Wonderful rhyming of “believe/weave/cleave, trust/rust/dust, end/friend/defend”, Linda. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever!

    Reply

  3589. your faith is evident in this without being over-stated. I think that even those of us who are Christians have a fear of death…but yet we shouldn’t if we truly believe that what comes next is so much better…so much more…

    Reply

  3596. Spirituality is our ace in the hole, as long as love is the edict & joy is the fodder. Nice jisei, Linda.

    Reply

    • Well, I don’t want it to come today, mind you, because I want to see my son get married and have me some grand kids someday, but I suppose if it did I’d be okay with that.

      Reply

    • That’s what I’m looking forward to. Not that I don’t have some of that here in this life, but it’s mixed with pain and suffering. Pure peace and joy will be a wonderful thing.

      Reply

  3606. I love it, Linda…it’s perfect. How nice to know that our suffering will be over and we can at last rest in peace…lovely. Thank you for joining in today.

    Reply

  3609. I like the way you reflect on your own wedding and vows in this haibun. A successful marriage indeed is one where there are storms but they are weathered together. Forgiveness and committment can provide lasting shelter. Thanks for that reminder, Linda.

    Reply

  3612. Oh so true.. God only knows and feels
    True.. humans make the guilt..
    the greed.. the jealousy..
    the pride.. the envy..
    the FEAR
    THE HATE..
    as simply
    an unwise
    attempt at Separation..
    little do they know
    and perhaps
    NOT FEEL
    THAT is all
    illusion in
    knowing
    and feelings
    in losing.. but
    never any
    real escape
    from Truth
    and Light or GOD
    as GOD rules wITh US
    and not against US when
    TRULY LIGHT AS FREE.:)

    Reply

  3620. I didn’t get over here on Poetics Tuesday; glad I stopped by today to witness your heartfelt testimonial. Some of us were snared by pro-choice sentiments when the blindness of youth, coupled to fear of inadequacy as a parent, refused to accept the responsibility of our own actions; but God does not give up on us & sometimes redemption reigns.

    Reply

  3622. I was in this very position this morning. Thanks for poetically articulating my true life experience! Gorgeous!

    Reply

  3626. Wonderful poetic form. And such an amazing response to the prompt. Thank you for writing this courageous poem and for sharing this experience and change with us. Bless you.

    Reply

  3633. I really enjoyed this, Linda. Sadly we place so much priority on the wedding without realizing that it is the beginning of a journey…and like every journey, there are sunny days and rainy days.:)

    Reply

  3635. Love the way you segued from nature to relationships… marriage is an exercise is compromise and forgiveness, and it’s that love that holds it all together.

    Reply

  3636. Into every marriage both rain and sunshine will come…..I think many people forget to think about this truth on the wedding day….your haibun is a lovely, poetic reminder of this fact.

    Reply

  3637. One of the best quotes on love that I ever heard came from the sci-fi show “Doctor Who”. The doctor makes the comment, “love is not an emotion. It’s a promise”. For a non-biblical TV series, he hit surprisingly close to the mark! Wonderful haibun!

    Reply

  3639. Linda, my heart aches for the young woman you were, a victim yourself. We’ve got to support young women who are pregnant and feeling desperate and encourage choices they, and their children, can live with!

    Reply

    • Lynn, Thank you for your kind words. I am just thankful for the compassion my experience has taught me and I pray God will use what I’ve been through to help others. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3647. The purpose of a marriage is the trust you should have, that said I have been faithful to my girlfriend for more than 30 years. Maybe sharing everything gives the same result. I do like the way you use the weather metaphor here.

    Reply

  3648. Thank you for reading and commenting on my links. You are faithful and I truly have enjoyed your past several links. That being said, I didn’t get married until I was 48. My husband was 38 and a first marriage for us both. I remember standing there and thinking, my life will be forever changed. When I turn to face my family/friends, I will be a new person. I truly liked this lovely haibun and how it took me back to my wedding day. I know we both had our vows in our hearts and on our lips. We never ever thought of not staying true to those commitments. They are truly sacred.

    Reply

  3649. Yes, there is so much meaning in a wedding. The wedding itself is the easy part, but the life long commitment is the hard (but very necessary) part. And being willing to forgive is definitely SO important too!

    Reply

  3651. And a river and gazebo is mine..
    but no formal wedding.. formal
    is never me.. hehe.. but any
    way.. what lasts does last
    and for me 26 years from
    hooking up like thIs now..

    Brides maid
    lives Love
    maid in LOVE..

    WED thiS..
    reAlly HaiBUN
    FUN! GETS!..

    oops..! broke
    HaikuX3rule..
    sings Yoda..;)

    Reply

  3652. Ha. If only everyone did keep their promises and actually considered the commitments they were making before they opened their mouths. We would probably have many less broken relationships.

    Reply

  3653. I enjoyed this so much – the description of the day, the wedding (I LOVE that the keyboardist played Here Comes the Sun!) , the remembering, and that wonderful wise loving haiku at the end. Perfection.

    Reply

  3654. I agree it is only the beginning ~ Funny enough, there was a little rain on my wedding day and they say its for good luck ~ Forgiveness is part of the long term commitment ~

    Reply

  3655. Ah.. yes.. every season
    has its own flavor now of
    soup or spice.. liked or not..
    and death.. well.. now..
    death’s.. just noT
    like Life..
    particularly
    in Life.. the best
    of all scenarios
    Living Life ALIVE..:)

    Reply

  3657. I am so pleased you did, not just one but two!!! the first is making me smile and the second, we are never ready it seems, even when they are at peace with the leaving. You did a super job on these going from one emotion to another.

    Reply

  3659. I am not ready for autumn too but I do like pumpkin spice ~ The second one touches the heart as who is ready to let a loved go ~ I like how you are experimenting with other forms Linda ~

    Have a good week ~

    Reply

  3660. I like both of your efforts. The first one is enjoyably light-hearted. And you know I really like pumpkin yogurt this time of year. Smiles. And the second one…one is never ready, but if SHE was at peace, that is good!

    Reply

  3662. To be ready for someone to leave is a little bit like resignation.. so yes we can just hope..
    I like the first one though.. I love soup.. and winter means that we will have peasoup and pancakes every Thursday… 🙂

    Reply

  3663. I doubt we ate ever ready for someone we love to leave . Hope the service goes well. I am not a fan of pumpkin spice but I do love fall and the smell of wood smoke

    Reply

  3664. Oh where would we be without forgiveness? We have all seen and perpetrated many crimes against God…and yet He continues to bless us with his forgiveness. Powerful piece.

    Reply

  3666. Caring and emphatic elements necessary in a good watchman. Very true Linda! Otherwise, it’ll be similar to border guards reacting in a sullen manner.

    Hank

    Reply

  3667. Humans rule morals.. God establishes Nature..
    Nature rules over morals wheRever humans
    go.. that rarely changes wHere humans
    tread in feet of blood.. tears.. fears or
    guts.. to understand Nature ALL
    IS to understand GOD NOW
    it is not ‘sin’ to live now
    and in some places
    sacrifice of some
    is required for
    any to live
    at ALL..
    until these
    places are showeRing
    effective birth control
    other than abortion GOD’s
    Nature and abortion
    will continue to rule..
    True watchWOmen
    of Light
    do not
    exclude
    truth of
    GOD’s
    Nature
    PurView..
    to eliminate
    human and other
    creation of suffering
    in all its forms from
    a grain of sand
    to the tallest
    UniVerse
    inside..outside..
    above.. so below
    all around as God
    as US and all else
    IS..just IS.. JustiCe
    Lives in the
    Nature
    of GOD
    eYes in
    US and
    yes.. those
    other places
    too.. HeLlp
    is more
    than
    HelL.:)

    Reply

  3668. Two lines strike me as particularly powerful, standing unvarnished, unadorned and stark as they do:
    I don’t want to play watchman in our world today
    and
    Choices made out of fear can never be undone

    Reply

  3669. forgiveness is the key for me here – it is important to have this watchman in us but it is more important to be this father or mother to those around us

    Reply

  3670. Indeed we all have to be watchmen…but we also have to recognize our humanity. And yes, there is forgiveness when we lapse. We must forgive others as well as ourselves! Your strong writing continues to impress me, Linda.

    Reply

  3671. The greatest gift we have to give is our stories, the humility of confessing our own failings – because they have power; to rescue those that are there now, or are considering similar pathes, or fear they are too far gone to know love again. This is why we need watch(wo)men, to look for those that need to hear – even if they wont in the moment.

    Reply

  3676. Courageous words, Linda. Hard lessons to learn so young but thankfully, there’s forgiveness offered. Peace to you (as you offer to others), my friend.

    Reply

  3681. Oh, I definitely enjoy the fall colors, but I think some animals have the right idea when they sleep through winter. Smiles. We have even worse winters here in the Midwest (usually) than in your area. Hate them!! As for your poem, I like it. You did not ‘overdo’ on adjectives and adverbs….and I appreciate that. Nicely penned!

    Reply

  3686. This poem strikes a chord with me. I love the distinct seasons and how they change. After many years in Africa and India and northern Australia where it is monsoonal and two-season, I still opt for proper Autumn, Winter, Spring, Summer any day.

    Reply

  3687. Thank you so much for your post. It took much courage to share this, I’m sure, but this message must be told. Thank you for bravery to share the truth. May you be richly blessed and continue to experience the healing power of Christ’s redemptive grace.

    Reply

  3688. oy – no fun when we have bad memories about something – that can really spoil things forever. maybe you should consider a move to california – i was there in november and the temps were like our ususal summer over here… autumn makes me a bit melancholic as well each year – i love her colors but know she carries the fading under her wings as well.. i love snowboarding though – that helps a bit

    Reply

  3689. Ah Linda! How your love for summer and warmth shines through this. You and I should live in reverse seasons in different hemispheres – you searching for summer and me searching for winter. Good write!

    Reply

  3690. Then I could live with peace and not strife
    Living where the bright sun always shines

    A wish to stay in the tropics would do away from the cold months. But those in hot lands would welcome the snows even if just once!

    Hank

    Reply

  3693. I grew up in Seattle, now reside on the South Sound after a damn decade in S. CA fighting mud slides, wildfires, flash floods, & earthquakes; couldn’t wait to return to the forested cradle between Cascades & Olympics–but as a kid, & an adult, I detested Winter in the NW; mostly driving in it, commuting to & from work, sliding up & down those thousand hills–but hey, as an actor I spent 4 months, Jan-April in Australia, & the damn flies, onerous unforgiving sun, that gave me the worst sunburn I’ve ever had (leading to a skin cancer on my back 40 years later) were far from pleasant as well.

    Reply

  3694. I don’t mind that the whole year is spring or summer ~ Autumn makes me anxious though I love the fall colors and winter doesn’t sit well with me either ~ Winters in Canada are real long so I know how you feel ~

    Reply

  3695. Ah.. yes.. i do agree when seasons
    become emotions anxiety rises..
    and when we master our
    seasons inside
    all
    now
    can be
    Spring
    or Winter
    Fall or NOW
    or Summer
    as the spiRit
    has potential
    sunShine eYes
    year
    ’round
    Peace
    and
    Har
    mony
    until one’s
    last grasp for breath..
    yes rare.. but potential..
    THE REAL ‘good news’
    of 2K years ago still NOW..:)

    Reply

  3696. I thought I would love constant sunshine until I lived in Southern California… but 4 months without a cloud in the sky stressed me out.. I need those cold and rainy day to be able to sit inside and read a good book.

    Reply

    • I was born an raised in southern California until I was 12. I loved it. And it was after we moved that life became more difficult for me and bad things happened in the cold northwest.

      Reply

  3702. Very touching poem. Excellent form and you used it so well to express yourself and feelings in this. I lost my soul sister Peggie in May. I called her a week before she died and wished I had told her I loved her. I know she knew but….we always think there is more time. My heartfelt condolences for you.

    Reply

  3704. Hard when you know you could have made time but didnt, and then it is too late. Hopefully you can still celebrate the life you did share and take consolation on a future meeting.

    Reply

  3706. This is a very touching poem, Linda. So very hard to lose a sister & hard to think about why one waited….. I think after a close person’s death we always have such questions. Why didn’t we say this? Why didn’t we do that? I am sure as she slipped away He was waiting for her!

    Reply

  3707. I have also lost a sibling and can relate to the feelings you express. I agree that we will always be left with the regret of not having spent more time with them.

    Reply

  3709. Oh, Linda, this really struck me. I also lost my sister and ask myself so often why I missed chances to be closer to her (we had a turbulent relationship for so many years.) This is so beautifully expressed.

    Reply

    • I used to think I wasn’t old enough to be losing people to death — especially when I lost my mom when I was 23 — but I guess now that I’m over 50 I better get used to it. It does help to write about it. It keeps them alive just a little. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3714. Joy
    eYes..
    romancing
    emotions
    moving connecting
    creating flowing waves
    ocean never ending..
    so below.. a spark..
    a light.. libido
    never
    ever
    oceans
    emotions
    wheels of
    Love
    always
    ending
    words
    below..
    above
    i LOVE
    below
    above
    i
    AM..:)

    Reply

  3718. Excellent use of the trimeric form – and expressing something that I fear so much as a mother. Have already seen some of my older son’s friends succumb to the pressure of ‘being thought cool’. (I wasn’t all too bothered about the party crowd myself in school, had my own little group of friends.)
    Particularly liked the line ‘the what-trouble-can-we-find friends’ – says so much.

    Reply

  3720. I remember the party kids – two types: popular party kids and crazy party kids. I never belonged to either being a loner. But I know sometimes during the year, a desk would get empty – pregnant – or, killed in a car wreck or some other stupid accident because of being high/drunk. I wasn’t a good kid, just a loner.

    Reply

    • I was on the scene right after a friend was killed because of drinking and driving, though I was sober at the time. These were the crazy ones. Glad you missed out on that scene.

      Reply

      • I got involved in college….big time. Thankfully, survived and only did it for a year. I was on academis scholarship and couldn’t afford to lose it.

  3721. Ah, peer group is so important. And, yes, sometimes what looks wonderful on the outside is rotten on the inside; and it isn’t until much later that one realizes it. Glad you did! And I am delighted that you used the Trimeric form. I LOVE the form really. (Ha, I will be using it for a prompt at some future time at dVerse.)

    Reply

  3723. It is difficult when one is transferring to another school, specially leaving best friends behind ~ I specially like this part:

    They became best friends, but not church friends
    More like party friends, what-trouble-can-we-find friends

    Reply

  3725. It can be a whole lot of fun in the moment to hang with that crowd, but yeah – it is a whole lot less filling the further along you go. WHole we choose to align ourselves with is one of those predictors of where our life is heading.

    Reply

  3726. Ouch! As a teacher I must admit that I have sometimes witnessed nice kids associate with the wrong kind of people. I never know what to do on those occasions.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I’ve had a conversation with God that is echoes of grace running through my head all week. I guess that’s why it ended up sounding like a dialogue, though unintentionally. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3736. Real Love is the drug that cures most ills..
    Finding Real Love is often the challenge
    of ‘JOB’ for those who are abused by
    others.. no matter beauty.. money..
    or style.. the soUl
    is all there
    is.. and without
    spiRit expression of
    an emotional heArt..
    there can be no sOul
    WHO lives free for Now..:)

    Reply

  3738. Thanks for sharing. You know what turns people away from God most? The church. They preach so much about sin; have they forgotten love? So much fire and brimstone, so much condemnation. What about love? The same selfishness the church condemns, I see in the church. Anyhow, good write.

    Reply

    • I was just listening to a d.c. Talk song yesterday about that. I think it’s important to remember that the church is made up of imperfect people. It is when those imperfect people claim to be perfect instead of admitting their faults and need for a savior that we lose the rest of the imperfect ones, whom God does, indeed, love enough to have died for them. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3742. Lots to recognise here, Linda – truth in this tale too… Soulfully done… With Best Wishes Scott

    Reply

  3749. So glad this had a happy ending–so often it doesn’t. And I’d recomment reading Adonnizio–I have a poetry how-to book by her. She also offers prompts in that book. Quite good. I don’t have a poetry only book though.

    Reply

  3754. Ah yes.. a midsummer’s beach reflecting
    water.. white sand.. no forgiveness for
    whiter human skin.. so i go later
    in afternoon Summer.. to
    escape the Sun’s Rays
    of beach killing
    Summer..:)

    Reply

  3756. ah yes – it’s painful to get sunburnt – and it happens quite easily – i’m using sunscreen factor 50 nowadays… i had factor 3 when i was a kid and that was enough back then… how things have changed…

    Reply

  3757. Have to be wary of the sun and its (cruel) after effects of exposing too much skin ~ But what a lovely vacation on the white sand beach, smiles ~

    Reply

  3758. The sun is quite a seducer but oh! how it makes you pay for trusting it. In spite of no snorkeling and sunburn, it still sounds a lovely trip. Nice haibun with all the heat and sun packed in. Thank you for posting while you were having to work and do this by phone.

    Reply

  3759. Ah, it is so easy to underestimate the effects of Maui sun! Turtle Bay is sooo beautiful. I read your words with nostalgia. So true that Lahaina shows no remorse for its cruelty. It continues its ‘cruel’ behavior day after day. Perhaps you will have to return again to Maui to snorkel.

    Reply

  3761. Oh the stories of human.. dark and light..
    truth is.. in countries like Mexico
    where abortion is illegal..
    there are as many
    abortions as there
    are in the U.S…
    more women
    are permanently
    disabled and more
    life suffers at
    the hands
    of ignorance
    in medically
    unsafe abortions..
    abortion as sad
    as that reality or
    even worse
    as infanticide
    as most mammals
    do has always been
    a dark part of human
    nature.. too..
    and no human
    can change that
    as GOD rules
    THAT.. Nature
    ain’t easy
    but IT IS
    REAL
    and So is
    GOD as
    Nature..
    where no
    human rules
    GOD as Nature..
    The best CURE
    for abortions are
    safe and effective
    birth control and the
    hands of potential
    less blood letting is refused
    by some churches supposedly
    worshiping .. GOD.. GOD
    does not give us
    a brain
    for
    no
    reason..
    using it
    saves human
    suffering and misery..
    Birth control is the
    simple answer
    for that
    in pill
    form
    or other
    safe and
    effective
    methods..
    instead
    of knife or worse..
    Ignorance is a sword that kills…
    i go to Catholic Church every Sunday..
    and fight for intelligent alternatives
    to fight ignorance and suffering..
    effective change to reduce human
    suffering comes
    from
    within with
    GOD of nature..
    and never against
    GOD’s LAWS of Nature..:)

    Reply

      • Me too. Lazy with form, images, using 30 words when 10 will do…this is a good exercise for us and I am please at how well we all did. We can do it!!!

  3764. could hear the strong voice behind the lines…the thought to look beyond statistics and reach out to individuals is very much uplifting & inspiring…a dream slant rhyme here…wow…

    Reply

  3765. Real people instead of statistics, individual stories rather than generalisations. That’s what poetry and fiction is all about – and that’s what opens our eyes and hearts, I should hope.

    Reply

  3766. One cannot not argue at the moral issues vs. abortion, but a fatherless child born in poverty to a crack Mom is, for me, allowing a different kind of tragedy. You feel for ED was superb, slant rhymes, four quatrains, etc; good work on this prompt & strong voice.

    Reply

  3767. In education, statistics often made me cringe. We see the faces behind the numbers while those who juggle with figures do not. A very powerful write with a great title!

    Reply

  3769. So true that no human being is only a statistic. No one woman. No one child. I do think we really need to think about individuals & care for individuals. Listening is a first step. Your poetry is becoming stronger and stronger, Linda.

    Reply

  3771. The numbers can be very overwhelming ~ I think its important to listen to each story and provide help and assistance ~

    Very well done with the form Linda ~

    Reply

  3772. You really caught on to Emily’s use of slant rhyme and used it very effectively in this thought-provoking poem.
    I have to wonder if there were more people really there for women who find themselves in such difficult situations, people who listen deeply and are really present to them, how would things be different?

    Reply

      • So many needs unfilled. It makes us appreciate how really limited we are. I believe that we do have a role to play by our writing. When I used to do readings in my Parish, I always prayed that it would touch at least one person. Mother Teresa said that. Someone asked her how she expected to reach so many needy people. She answered, “One person at a time.”

  3773. Statistics can be manipulated as well to mean pretty much whatever you want them to mean. It all comes down to who is telling the story behind them. But when you put live to each statistic – and hear their story from them – it is hard to argue with that.

    Reply

    • I took a statistics class in college and the only thing I remember is the Mark Twain quote: “There are three kinds of falsehoods: lies, damn lies, and statistics.” It is true that they can be manipulated, but somewhere in each statistic are real people. I think the stories of real people are much more powerful and motivating. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3774. Oh, now this is very good. You’ve completely mastered the turn from the first two lines to the last. A haiku master, to be sure.

    Reply

  3789. AH, the rhythm of the ocean is definitely restorative. It is like a meditation in and of itself, just listening to it lap the shores. Nice change of scenery.

    Reply

  3790. See? Beautiful choice of words….melodious and lapping…..definitely can’t go wrong with Hawaii and the ocean 🙂

    Reply

  3791. I am sorry there was such a rude comment on this. the person should have just not said anything. Too often, we do not want to accept responsibility for our actions or inactions. We don’t like to hear that we are sinners when we only want to hear that just because we do something good, we’re okay. This was a very brave write and I applaud you for it. You’ve spoken truth and sown the seed. Blessings.

    Reply

  3792. The greaTest truth
    that Jesus ever speaks
    is God that lives within is
    the only Truth..
    Unfortunately
    the greatest mistruth of A Bible
    anywhere in any Universe NOW
    is promoting A CREATURE to
    GOD as ALL alone..
    as only A
    CREATURE..
    whether
    that be
    a so-
    called
    last
    prophet
    named
    Muhammad
    or an only son
    renamed
    and called
    as such
    as
    Jesus..
    never wanting THAT..
    but those who choose
    to make him tHeir
    Quarterback instead
    of GOD do.. and yes
    this is not just opinion
    but scholarly researched
    essence of Truth as well..
    Until that mistake is erased
    from the world
    Jesus will
    never
    sleep
    in peace…
    yes.. i am
    defending the
    honor and respect
    of the son of MAN Jesus
    who states clearly
    as reported in
    ‘that’ revised
    book..

    many will come
    to do much
    greater
    than
    a grain
    of sand
    that is the
    greaTEST
    OF ALL
    AS THE
    MEEK WILL
    INHERIT THE
    EARTH
    AS
    GROUND..:)

    Reply

  3793. The message of forgiveness and love is indeed often forgotten in the name of intransigence, sticking to the rules and to traditions, dividing the world into ‘us’ and ‘them’.

    Reply

    • Serious examination of one’s beliefs and faith is important. In His word, God says you will find Him when you seek Him with all your heart. I’m glad you found what I wrote helpful. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • I’ve never thought of myself as “religious” per se, at least not in the traditional sense. I do now go to church most Sundays, though it’s because I want to, never because I think I have to. I enjoy the worship and the fellowship, but if I have somewhere else to be I’m not stressed that I’ll miss it (which I will be the next two weeks). For me, relationship is what it is all about. It’s what God wants, too, I believe. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3801. I think that we have simplified the gospel too far to truly understand its meaning. It begins at creation, and how God created us all – then the fall – then redemption. Without the fall, we dont understand why we need a gospel. Without creation, we dont understand what we are redeemed to. And without redemption – well, theres not much left. Ha.

    Reply

  3802. I haven’t been living my life only “by my greedy desires” but still did not need to call for Zeus, Buddha, or Yahweh. No repentance, no fear of punishment — no sacrifice needed. So if there is no condemnation in Christ, he should not give a shit that I live well without all that religiosity. Just a simple guy trying to get by in a theology free zone.

    Reply

    • Thank you. I never thought I would write so much poetry, and I keep thinking of other posts I want to write, but all I seem to ever get done these days is the poetry. 🙂

      Reply

  3805. Perhaps ironically, I suspect that she has shaped the person you have become, shaped that person for the better as you have lived through grief for her. Imagine the joyous reunion ahead.
    God bless you for sharing, my friend.

    Reply

  3806. Bjorn was right.
    You have spoken bravely and freely from your heart…the result is very touching. This not only benefits the reader, but I hope it has some healing factors for you too. (((hugs)))

    Reply

  3807. This is so powerful. I’m so glad you shared this, for you and for us. I wish I could hug you.

    These sections are so moving:

    “The tears I’ve cried over that one choice
    would drown a small army of giants”

    “But if I had it to do over again
    I would choose my inconvenience
    and her life”

    The beauty in making choices you wish you could change is your ability to walk with others who are or were in similar situations. Our mistakes and pain enable us to counsel and liberate others. You can turn your hurt, and hers, into good by helping another mom through this, whether by helping her decide or going through the grieving process with her. So much love for you and your sweet baby. I believe that her soul is eternal and that you can be reunited with her. I will pray for you tonight, Miss Linda. I’m sending you very deep and genuine hugs, sweetheart. And so much mama love, from one to another.

    Reply

    • Thank you so much for your prayers and hugs and encouragement. They mean so much to me. I do hope that God will help me to comfort and show compassion to others so that what I’ve been through doesn’t go to waste. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3808. And by God’s amazing grace, you have become fearless, Linda! Thanks for sharing your painful truth with clarity in hopes it will spare another the same grief. Women are also victims of this “philosophy of choice”.

    Reply

  3810. Another very heartfelt poem, Linda. As you said the time for choosing is long past, but I think others can learn from your experience and your honesty and humanity!

    Reply

  3812. A testament to strength and value of your heart.. spirit.. and soul.. is the regret.. the anguish.. the depression.. and the value you place on all human existence.. as well as your courage to talk to this.. in both secular and Christian life.. in public.. for all the world to hear..:)

    And another lesson in this.. not often spoken with courage in ‘Christian’ public.. is that in SOME of ‘our’ ‘Christian’ Churches.. when ‘we’ stand up and suggest that people who are natural GOD created homosexuals do not have a HOLY right to enter into the sacred sacrament of marriage.. ‘we’ too are aborting human life in heart.. spirit and soul..

    And truly many cases of abortions are an indirect or DIRECT result of people in marriages having children.. who are not innately cut out to do THAT by the GOD of Nature.. and would never naturally do it.. if not forced by the heavy handed rule of patriarchal controlling.. subjugating religions.. cultures and churches through fear.. for power.. reproductive control.. and materialistic gains.. who do NOT know and UNDERSTAND IN LOGIC AND FEELING the ALL natural rules of GOD..

    And to be clear i have no idea what your stances OR FEELINGS are on these specific ADDITIONAL issues.. but the TRUTH will set all of US free to have greater potential at a happy.. thriving existence.. in well being with GOD.. as social cooperating human animals hand-in-hand.. no less than Bonobos who in nature.. overall.. Love greater in the TRUTH AND LIGHT of what ‘Christ’ really is.. than human beings.. overall.. sadly enough in THAT Truth and Light..:)

    Anyway.. thank you for your inspiring words OF FEELING.. as Truth in Light creates greater and greater LiGHT in life for HUMAN BEING..:)

    Reply

  3813. What a honest and heart warming read. I thank you for sharing your thoughts, and hope this has at least released a little burden off from your grieving heart. Best wishes.

    Reply

  3814. The Japanese are very sensible, they have rituals to honour the sacrifice. I think much harm is done in the West by pretending it is just a procedure.

    Reply

    • Somehow I don’t think a ritual would make the killing of my child any easier to live with. At least I hope it wouldn’t. But I do agree that acknowledging it isn’t just a procedure would be a good thing.

      Reply

      • Rituals allow us to grieve. Funerals are for the living, not the dead.

        Until the Seventies miscarried babies were often disposed of and burned until it was realised that this caused enormous trauma because parents had no chance to grieve. We need rituals for grieving and processing. In Australia and I imagine elsewhere things began to change quickly with photographs being taken, perhaps of just a hand or a foot, and parents being encouraged to hold the baby. Parents are now encouraged to have funerals for miscarriages etc.

        Abortion perhaps even more so requires rituals which allow people to grieve and process and the Japanese sensibly acknowledge that.

      • You’ve focused on this idea of ritual several times now, as if having a ritual somehow makes choosing abortion okay, as long as you grieve properly. But I’m curious, have you ever personally experience either a miscarriage or an abortion? I have experienced both and they are not the same. They do not evoke the same feelings at all. The only “ritual” that I can see being of any benefit when a mother has chosen to kill her own child is one of confession, repentance, and plea for forgiveness. It’s not a mere issue of grieving.

      • You misunderstand, Linda, ritual does not make choosing abortion okay, although sometimes abortion is okay because there really is no other option, but ritual allows and enables us to process the experience, effectively.

        No, I have not miscarried or had an abortion but women very close to me have and I have been a student of psychology for decades, particularly in the area of grief.

        There are psychological maxims which apply to grief in general, whatever the source, and it is evident, demonstrably, that rituals which support us in our grieving are highly effective, whether that grieving is conscious or unconscious.

        Your comment regarding the ‘ritual’ for abortion sounds very judgemental and punitive and quite fundamentally Christian actually. Why would a woman who has chosen this course require forgiveness? Why would she need to repent? And to whom would she need to confess? Even if she believed in some sort of God, any God would know all so that it happened would be a given.

        It sounds as if you think there is someone or something out there who has been offended and who delegates forgiveness.

        I don’t believe in such things and think they are counter-productive for any grieving or resolution in the psyche.

        The women I know who have had abortions did not do it lightly and some were so at peace with their choice that grieving was minimal.

        I fully respect the right of any woman to choose if she has a abortion or not and consider it basically her business.

        My concern over abortion not being recognised for what it is, the sacrifice of a life, is merely for the psychological damage that can do, to lesser and greater degrees, depending on the woman involved.

      • I did not misunderstand you; I disagree with you. You say that “sometimes abortion is okay because there really is no other option.” There is always another option, another choice. I believe that, except when the choice is between the life of the mother and the life of the child (which is rarely the reason for abortion), abortion is always the wrong choice. It amounts to the person God has put in the position to protect and nurture a child instead killing that child. And yes, I believe in our Creator. The fact that you do not does not make Him any less real. The denial of His existence and sovereignty is at the heart of the philosophy of choice and the devaluing of life.

      • Sorry, but you did misunderstand. You suggested I was saying ritual made abortion okay. I was not. That was your misunderstanding.

        I was saying ritual supports, allows and enables the event to be processed in a healthier and more effective manner.

        No, there is not always another option. Some women get pregnant and they have no financial, emotional, physical support for the pregnancy, let alone what is required to give a baby up for adoption.

        More to the point, for some women it is worse to have a child and give it away than to terminate a life before there is a baby or a child. That is their right.

        In the best of worlds there would be no abortions but we do not live in the best of worlds. For some babies brought to birth there is a life of horrors which is far worse than never having lived it.

        And you clearly believe in a conventional God. I don’t and neither do many women. I know women who believe that the soul enters the baby when life becomes viable and abortions are performed prior to that. They apologise to the Soul, who understands anyway, and acknowledge what they are doing, believing, as makes sense, that if this Soul is meant to come as their child it will come again.

        I respect the beliefs of others but just as I do not believe in imposing my beliefs on others, nor by judging from my perspective, I think it is wise for anyone who holds a religious belief to do the same.

        There is no proof that the conventional version of God exists and in fact, most of the concepts of God in all religions are beyond reason in terms of such a being existing and are really God made in the image of petty men.

        It must be harder for someone like yourself who believes in this sort of God but abortion as an option, is handled differently by women who do not believe in this sort of judgemental and punitive ‘father’ God.

        I have a great deal of time for God as an intelligent, organising entity, but that has nothing to do with religion and neither is it defined as gender.

        It is not the denial of that sort of God which has led to the devaluing of life but denial of our inherent spiritual nature and our connectedness. But I digress.

        Take care, we have diverged, but life would be boring if everyone thought the same.

  3817. What a difficult subject. You are very brave. There is a daily grief, and you have expressed yours eloquently. But sometimes, also, there are “necessary” griefs and that is what you endured at the time. And grace is–or will be–what heals. Thank you.

    Reply

  3818. Linda, my heart goes out to you. The people who offer so much advice prior to the choice never seem to touch upon how long a woman carries that pain afterwards. It impacted one of my family members profoundly. I applaud your courage in writing about it. That seems to me a sign that perhaps seven years of tears have begun to heal the wound. We cannot change the past. But what I know about souls says there is a baby angel hovering somewhere nearby who is distressed by your sorrow and wants you to be happy and all right. Even the souls who do not arrive here have their purpose, and they do get to come to earth when the time is right. I believe this profoundly. Also I believe that the souls we are meant to meet, we meet, and you will see her again on another plane.

    Reply

    • I do believe that I will see her (I always assume it’s a her, I don’t know for sure) in Heaven one day. In fact, it was when I mourned the loss of my third child to miscarriage and found comfort in knowing I’d see that child again that I realized truly what I had done. I have healed, or else this poem would not have been possible. My hope is to help others, like your family member, to heal as well, to not feel alone in the loss and the forgiveness. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3823. Wowza, this is heavy, Linda. God is merciful and full of grace, so you have that. I had a friend long ago, a non-Believer, who made this “choice” 3 times because of the selfishness of her husband. Mind-blowing, right? The marriage didn’t survive, and then he died shortly after the divorce. I know how badly she wanted those children, so the lasting weight of heartache must be indescribable. God bless you BIG today and always–Dell

    Reply

  3824. Mmm. You are writing of the child you did not keep, the one you talked about a few weeks ago. Hard topic to touch – and comment on, knowing the significance to you. We are a product of our choices. Thankfully there is grace – something we need not only accept from the creator, but that we need to learn to accept from him.

    Hugs Linda.

    Reply

  3828. Yes.. to reflect CREATOR
    is in CREATING.. imagination
    swirling with eyes of GOD..
    reflecting human soUl of
    heArt in SpiRit expressing..
    God does flow WITH
    WE who please
    aLIVE in Art
    in being
    ALL..:)

    Reply

  3831. I so love how strong and sure this is. And the word choices of fearless and beloved. It reminds me, as I am walking through a storm myself, of the sureness of His grace and His love and protection. Thank you.

    Reply

  3832. I love the closing stanza. It completely captures your relationship with God and who you are.

    “His Word is my evidence
    His grace is my proof”

    My pre-teen daughter is struggling with her beliefs, so this really touches me. You’re so right. Grace IS the proof we need. In the moments of greatest suffering, desperation, and emptiness, nothing can pull us up other than grace.

    Reply

    • There’s nothing wrong with struggling with beliefs — it means there are beliefs there to care about. God will be with her in the struggle and I pray grace does serve as the proof she needs. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3834. It’s so wonderful that you are now fearless and so strong in your faith. Actually, this poem says more than just a little about you. Lovely.

    Reply

  3836. Is it this line where you say you cheated and combined it into one?
    ‘I am a writer, not because I write, but simply because’
    I think it works perfectly as one line – and in fact that whole final stanza is just perfect, I wouldn’t change a thing. I really like your word choices – fearless and beloved – how wonderful!

    Reply

  3841. When you know – that is all that matters. It frees you to do what you are called to do, and not have that dictated to you by the world.

    Reply

  3842. you know… his love has carried me through quite some valleys already… and it amazes me again and again… now i have this song in mind “i will sing of your love forever….” smiles

    Reply

  3845. His monsoon of mercy is the only thing that truly can heal our hearts and wash away shame, guilt and regret. Thank you for sharing this redemptive hope!

    Reply

  3849. Never a stranger to earth.. for so many
    years until humans erase stranger’s
    existence from the face of earth..
    stranger still lives in mountain
    streams.. in drops of coming
    rain and Monsoon floods..
    all around this stranger
    lives.. with never judgement
    against what this stranger is..
    ah.. to live with this stranger is
    much easier than living against
    the stranger that is i and us and
    we and them.. all together as one
    force
    of
    unnamed before
    the stranger of God
    named human plants
    a seed of
    division..:)

    Reply

  3853. They say, time heals, Linda. I know by this time she has forgiven you for whatever it is that you’ve done in the past. Somethings in life are better wrong at first, remember that my friend. Smiles.

    Reply

  3856. love the term “monsoon of mercy”. Isn’t is so that we all seek a healing for that which we condemn ourselves. The words bring the feeling of healing that can only come from a source within and without.

    Reply

  3859. This is such powerful writing..the rain washes away the pain.. cleanses our soul.. heals our heart.. and fuels our goals 🙂

    Lots of love,
    Sanaa

    Reply

  3860. I can only imagine how hard it was to write this, but I know others can and will be blessed by it. Please share it with all who can be healed by reading it.

    Reply

    • In situations like this, I always think of the song “Why me, Lord?” and the line that says, “Maybe Lord, I can show someone else / What I’ve been through myself / On my way back to you.”

      Reply

  3863. I think there is mercy enough not to live in regrets. There is no way I could condemn anyone for a choice like that. I see how your poetry becomes stronger when the subject is closer to your heart.

    Reply

  3864. I am proud of you Linda.

    I hope that you have and find that freedom
    in the mercy that only God can give you.

    Hints of my verse for you in there as well.
    There are plenty of things in my past that
    I could live in a shadow because of –
    but there is no condemnation for those
    who are in Christ.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I do know that I am forgiven, that I’m washed clean. I think the real reason I’m drawn to writing on this subject is not for my own healing, which I’ve already experienced, but that I might help another be healed by His monsoon of mercy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Yes, I can sometimes get them to go away, hoping I’ll remember them in the morning, but I never do. That’s why I put the notebook next to my bed, so I don’t lose the good ones.

      Reply

  3866. A great story transpired into a haibun, which made for some fun reading. The breaks with haiku really make you pause to reflect. A few years ago, some crows moved into our neighborhood. They definitely like to make themselves known..

    Reply

    • Thanks. If you found the interjected haiku jarring, then I succeeded in what I was trying to convey add the subjects of those haiku jarred me from my peaceful time on the deck. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3871. Dream of the feral cat inside outside
    or indoor cat.. is to breathe it all
    in.. climb and spin around
    in cat tail dreams
    among the
    leaves of
    grass and sandy
    hills of Summer delight…
    Oh to lay inside can be a sad
    cat way of life.. but getting fed
    is always the incentive that strays
    the call of the wild in whiskers of free..;)

    Reply

  3872. an interesting point here, LInda…although if we were to eat lamb, perhaps wine wouldn’t be the right thing to drink either…I suppose that Christ was a bit of a poet…and used the bread and wine as a wonderful metaphor.

    Reply

  3873. Oh, that was fun to read, especially your ‘untrustworthy’ cat getting stuck in a tree…
    Sounds peaceful and your haiku grounded the observations which were drifting off into a cosy afternoon daydream…

    Reply

  3875. This was the first haibun I’ve ever read. Definitely pleasant and bouncy in a way, kind of had the dynamic of a bitesized musical with the haiku ‘pauses’ for thought so to speak. Thank you for the experience 🙂

    Reply

  3877. Nice haibun specially the last one about the birds, flowers and bees ~ One thing I enjoy about summer are the blooming colors, along with birdsongs ~

    Reply

  3878. Linda, this was a great read and I really enjoyed traveling with you through these everyday moments. The haibun form and haiku was superbly done. I especially liked the capstone observations for each stanze — makes me feel as if I am talking to my neighbor! thank you, joanie

    Reply

    • I’ve only been to NYC once in Aug for a 2 week vacation. I do not envy you. Two weeks was almost more than I could take. I prefer raucous crows over the noise of the city any day.

      Reply

      • Awww. I love this city. It’s gorgeous. We’re just getting some rain today. It isn’t for everyone though.

      • Granted, I was there the first two weeks of August and it was 95+ degrees every day. But it was the constant noise that got to me. I’m glad I visited, and even climbed to the crown of the Statue of Liberty, but I couldn’t live there.

      • It’s not noisy all over. We have quiet neighborhoods here. Manhattan is the hub so of course it’s loud, but you can find quiet living.

  3883. Really enjoyed your haibun and I found myself nodding in agreement about the disturbance in peace 🙂 Every morning the birds start their chatter around 5am lol

    Reply

  3884. I feel as if I was right with you in this poem, Toni. Good thing your son was able to rescue the cat, but climbing a tree in Birkenstocks certainly was no picnic! I like the way you expressed the annoyance of the crows. Really irritating how they keep birds (with more pleasant songs) at bay!

    Reply

  3885. Excellent first haibun! the two interrupting poems are good but the last traditional haiku is gorgeous. Good rhythm and feel in this. thanks for taking us on this adventure on the deck with you and glad you got that peace.

    Reply

  3886. A sterling Haibun you have spun for us. I like the 3 haiku capstones for each prose stanza. I believe that a modern Haibun can take off myriads of directions. I have been favoring them a lot with my work, opening & closing with haiku, with interspersed lunes & tanka, & shaped lines, & open spaces. Bjorn, just today, used American Sentences for his frame poetics.

    Reply

  3887. I like how you brought me straight there to the patio, the haiku providing the breaks between your keen eye observing.. almost like interruptions they add depth to your prose, just like it had been a longer piece.

    Reply

  3888. Nice nature touches in this. Your cat made me chuckle. Mine is an indoor/outdoor cat – we rescued him from an old shed, so covered in fleas. He was tiny. Not so much anymore. I hate to think of where he gets to when we let him out. He always shows back up though. Glad you found your moment of peace.

    Reply

    • Our cat can’t be trusted outdoors. Our old cat was indoor/outdoor and it worked just fine. He seemed to know how to hold his own. This one is just too stupid. But very handsome.

      Reply

  3890. A fascinating chain of original thinking, this poem made me smile from top to bottom. Even though the premise is sound, even logical, the practical promulgation of serving lamb would lead to inter-religious bickering, & chaos of all sorts. Thanks for stopping by my site; glad your muses loosened up today.

    Reply

  3891. Oh goodness.. bread and wine of life
    is shared innately.. no need for
    books.. announcements
    or special guru songs
    to sing this song
    of one life
    of
    love
    for all who
    come to the
    communion of nature
    as human and all other
    animal holy sacred loving life..:)

    Reply

  3893. Well, lamb might indeed be a bit difficult. How would one know how many would attend the service to determine how much to prepare? Smiles. Indeed there are a lot of things in the whole Plan that might seem odd and illogical…but we take the leap of faith & accept that it is what it is.

    Reply

  3896. And I agree. he was the sacrificial Lamb and told us to eat the symbols of His body and blood. But please do leave as it is for it is though provoking and I think will lead to some most excellent conversations about that Lamb. Good job!

    Reply

  3897. lamb is one of my favorites, especially a spicy hot lamb curry. But as I read this I was reminded of Isiah’s “All flesh is grass”

    Reply

  3898. That would be inconvenient – finding and cooking anough lamb for everyone. It would also be like sacrifice, which luckily has been made for us. And unleavened bread is easily accessible, anyone with flour and water can partake. The symbolism in the matzah as well, of the stripes. I think that it was decided very intentionally.

    Reply

    • I agree. After I wrote and posted this it occurred to me that serving lamb would be like continuing the sacrifices. I suspect the symbolism of His body, the command to “do this in remembrance of me” would be lost. But I think I’ll leave the poem as is. 🙂

      Reply

  3902. Cooking my chicken as we speak, just took delivery on my new Treager, preburned it last night. Wife an kids are out of town an dad needs ta eat, thanks for the recipe

    Reply

  3903. So true…and yet…I have worked with many very open minded preschoolers. Maybe we start out grey! It was a nice change to read a rhyming poem tonight. 🙂 Great job.

    Reply

  3904. But even if we’re afraid to join in the fray there’s no denying that we are all in this great battlefield together that is called life. The fear is constant today & even tomorrow but eventually we will all learn to find the courage it takes to fight for this one precious life. Thanks for the poem!

    Reply

  3905. Ah.. yes i say..
    embrace all the shades
    of grey and colors of life..
    as God is an artist without
    boundaries
    of
    brush
    or
    strokes..
    infinity of all
    as one way
    of light
    and dark..
    in ALLways ONE..
    never alone.. for those
    who sing a song of ALL..:)

    Reply

  3907. The ignorance & impatience & short attention spans of youth can be understood, even forgiven–but the ultra-conservative far-to-the-right KKK John Birchers amongst us are perfect examples of inability to probe, to investigate life, science, & spirituality–& speaking only for myself, their actions & views are not forgivable or acceptable.

    Reply

  3908. Much truth in this poem….and you are right – there are still black and whites among the greys. The greys do seem to add contrast and depth but I think you and I both know there is One that will never fade to grey. Good take on this prompt and the rhymes in it add to it.

    Reply

  3912. This is so true, Linda. As we mature, we become more cautious in our judgements and hopefully kinder too. Claudia could not have expressed my feelings about this.

    Reply

  3914. As we grow older, I find that there are more shades rather than black or white ~ I think we need to find our own stance, color & perspective, given that everything seems convoluted and mixed up now ~

    Thanks for linking up with D’verse ~

    Reply

  3915. So very true, Linda. In childhood right was right and wrong was wrong; and we knew which was which because our parents told us so. Smiles. As adults we realize that the world operates much more in shades of gray & our decision making is much harder than it was in days of our naive youth.

    Reply

  3918. I think our fears do keep us from going to extremes. And you know what happens to luk warm as well. I think that is why you see more people joining extremist groups and the younger generations leaving the church. They want something with conviction, and sadly many of our churches have become so luke warm.

    Reply

  3919. I think we fail to look closely enough to see the little specks of black and white.. if we squint our eyes it’s grey, and maybe it’s better that way.. at least we have to be aware that it can happen.

    Reply

    • I see what black and white remains, but the question is do I want to take a stand on my view of black and white? Sometimes the answer is yes, sometimes it’s no.

      Reply

  3920. i think the older we get the more we realize how complex situations can be… i’m not for watering things down but i’m all for looking at things from different angles and for trying to see all the shades of a situation or a person

    Reply

    • I agree. Some things are still black and white for me, but the older I get the shorter the list gets. And experience can so affect perception that it’s good to try to step into another’s shoes sometimes.

      Reply

  3922. You know, Linda, sometimes it is fun to write something a bit different. Your kyrielle made me smile. I like the way your poetry seems to be expanding in so many different directions lately!

    Reply

  3928. I am always happy to stumble upon something I hadn’t known before. There are so many poetic forms and discovering new ones is always a treat. Kyrielle is a new one for me, I may have to dabble.

    I agree with X in that your end lines being rather random became the constant and even deeper meaning contributing to the whole. Well done. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply

  3931. I shared your poem with a friend who struggles with depression/anxiety. Thanks, Linda….with a prayer for Bryan too.

    Reply

    • I hope it helps your friend. You might also consider getting your friends a copy of my poetry book. It’s all about my struggles with depression and how God was my light. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  3939. I liked this and I liked how the poem kept nagging at you and you finally had to write it down. Nothing silly about that!!! It happens to me at times as well. Nice rhythm to this and good rhyme. I’ll never write a limerick either, myself. But based on this, I’d think you would write an excellent sonnet.

    Reply

  3941. This is wonderful:
    “And a fourth that ends in purple
    I fear that I shall never write
    A sonnet with the meter right
    But can pen lines poetic, light”

    Reply

  3942. Oh Goodness.. the science of poetry
    can become so complex
    i forget to write..
    forget the rules
    and never learn them..
    for me is lucky as rules are my thing
    so much
    of life in ruling it..
    but anyway.. instructions can be fun…:)

    Reply

  3946. Ha. I happen to love your end lines. Having little to do with anything, they become the everything. I doubt I will ever write a real sonnet either – way too much constraint for my favor.

    Reply

    • Nice to read different poetic forms and then to enjoy them! Great job and loved the verse
      about writing! Thank you for sharing your writing notes too!

      Reply

  3949. You did well. non-traditional will work. I am such a doofus, when I do my haiku, I beat out the syllables using my fingers. the thing that throws me are the things ending in “ia”…we pronounce pe-tun-ya but it counts out to pe-tu-nee-ah…..but the hummingbird zips and sips and zips most beautifully in this. You did great!!! and petunia could have been a season word in the first line because of when it blooms – that’s another thought for season words. I love hearing the up close and personal you had.

    Reply

    • According to Dictionary.com petunia is three syllables — I looked it up to be sure and I count on my fingers, too. Yet the original post had an extra verb in the middle line — the word cede — because apparently I don’t count well.

      Reply

  3951. So love hummingbirds. One year on Easter we were in Palm Desert and a beautiful, pure white hummingbird visited our feeder. He hung around for the rest of spring. For me, it was a special gift. There are photos of him on my website. My blog, too. Somewhere. Peace back at you.

    Reply

  3952. Sherry wrote about the hummingbirds as well. i was telling her that there are quite a few that visit with me on the back porch. They are quite curious, probably more so than my cat. They are funny though darting here and there. Nice movement in your verse. Fun.

    Reply

    • A week or so ago I had one buzz up behind me but when I tried to swivel my chair to see him, he was gone. But then last week I got to watch one from flower to flower. Very beautiful.

      Reply

  3957. A lovely and lively haiku, Linda! If you want the traditional syllable count, the second line should be only 7 but…non-tradional may be your choice 🙂

    Reply

    • Well apparently I can’t count! I was so focused on how many syllables petunias was that I counted the line as a whole wrong. I suppose the second line could be “Purple petunia nectar.”

      Reply

  3959. I admire the active verbs – darting, sip, sip, zip ~ Congrats on writing the first haiku ~

    Thanks for participating ~

    Reply

  3961. Hi Linda–I stumbled on your recipe today when I googled, searching for bbq corned beef. I was relieved that yours didn’t say “not corned beef”–as many of the recipes said “beef brisket” and then the “not” qualifier. So I wasted some time, trying to figure out what was what… Your recipe was very helpful, and what I decided ultimately, was that if it could be made as barbeque, it could probably also be done as Teriyaki–which was what I really wanted, as I had 2 jars (a 2-for-1 sale!!) of Kona pineapple teriyaki marinade/glaze. So mine is in the crock pot as I write this–and may require that 2nd jar, as I like mine really flavorful, whether I do bbq or teriyaki. Thanks again for this recipe help–and God bless you BIG! ~ Dell

    Reply

  3962. Hi Linda; I agree Third Day rocks…especially Mac Powell’s vocals! Casting Crowns belongs on your list too…imho 🙂

    Reply

  3963. To bury a human soul and heart..
    away from expressing
    spirit.. is to maim
    a love of life
    so great
    that death
    is truth in life..
    To raise alive
    is to
    come again
    in living glory
    of sacred love..:)

    Reply

  3971. One can never go wrong when it comes to prayers and praying. The inner feelings of emptiness would readily be filled with joys of salvation!

    Hank

    Reply

  3973. ha – and if you bury a seed the contrary of what you might expect happens – instead of silencing them they get only louder – and more

    Reply

  3977. So, I’m curious, dear Linda about what someone has said or presumably said behind your back!
    Nasty!
    More frequent, methinks, than forthrightness in an age that seems to value being PC above all.
    Speaking of PC–I have a hard time with marking the stars after any given poem you have written. Who the heck am I to grade you like that on a poem?!?!
    I could say what I most liked; in private I might ask why this or that….but I can’t bring myself to grade you–certainly not in public.
    That said, I think your writing just keeps getting better.
    Keep going!
    Yo sista.

    Kathleen

    Reply

  3978. Yes indeed! Spending time with God should certainly be an “every-day” experience…even moment by moment…not just a few hours on Sundays or in an emergency…and then we truly will have peace!!

    Reply

  3984. it’s good to find peace in his presence… usually i go outside to hear god’s word – the daily audio bible on my headphones and nature… perfect combo..

    Reply

  3986. Very prayerful and meditative verses. The repetition also lends a sense of duty and adherence, which I think is very appropriate for this poem. Very well done,

    AB

    Reply

  3992. Prayer and worship should definitely be a big part of our lives. And hopefully it spills over abd across the whole of our day

    Reply

    • I think I have just about determined, if someone mentions god, or worship, or how spiritual they are — you might as well skip them, because they never return visits. Enjoy your god — i want nothing to do with them if this is a reflection of them.

      Reply

      • I’m sorry you have come to this conclusion. I actually read a lot of poems posted at dVerse, though sometimes it takes me a few days to get through them all. I try to go directly from Mr. Linky rather than just read those who comment on my blog. I do find it interesting, though, that your second comment suggests that your first comment was less than genuine. Peace, Linda

    • Thanks. It is autobiographical, and overcoming fear to publish my first poetry book is part of the story so a poem at the start of each chapter seemed to make sense.

      Reply

  3997. Great Turkish proverb….never heard it before….thanks for sharing 🙂 And you’re right….nothing can slam a door shut tighter than bitterness!

    Reply

  4003. Oh. so. true! None so blind as those that won’t see, or deaf as those that won’t listen. A tightly written poem which also exemplifies a ‘turn’ perfectly!

    Reply

  4005. I loved everything about this and believe me I normally have a short attention span, but this kept me all the way through. Such a rich and well told story. I was there on the other side of the country, much the same.

    Reply

  4007. Yes, we need to try as hard as we can to keep the doors to the heart open. Forgiveness definitely is the key.

    Reply

  4010. Yes “when we were children we thought like children” but its still hurts and those hurts follow us through our lives ..there comes a day when we have to forgive the past … Forgive in order to go forward just for our Health … Jesus said … I leave you Peace and we must fight and grab his Peace offering sometimes minute by minute

    Reply

  4011. I like how you wrote the progression in this. I’m a long-time insomniac and worrier. You would think that at my age (71) and with faith, that should not be an issue. Just this past year I have discovered that gratitude prayer is what helps. I start to tell God the good things about the previous day and my life as it is and never get very far. I do get up for tea (Chamomile) though because of back pain. It helps to sit up a while. God bless.

    Reply

  4013. Ah.. the cure of mind wandering in roads of angst.. in past and future of interest yet to come.. the stilling oceans of movement.. sometimes practiced well.. takes mind away from words.. finally into body.. a feeling of peace and rest.. yet.. not.. accompanying words of life..:)

    Reply

  4017. It is lovely to see that many of us seem to suffer the 2am attack. I liked the repetition and symmetry to gave me a sense of compulsion regarding your thoughts. That’s something I find the most pressing at this time.

    Reply

  4020. When we pray and give control of all that worry to Someone greater than us, it does indeed bring peace. Good tension in the worry and the resolve at the end.

    Reply

  4021. It is hard to have so many thoughts circulate in one’s brain during a sleepless night. It sounds, from the last stanza, like it was the prayers that gave solace & allowed sleep to (at last) come at last!

    Reply

  4023. Sadly, for some of us, once the night, & insomnia has a firm grip on our mind, the monkey-speak is non-stop. You have me wondering about you & the Mormons now.

    Reply

  4026. Hopefully your prayers lead to that still small voice bringing you the comfort that all will be okay. And a restful remainder of the evening.

    Reply

  4031. It’s like the mantra of the expat: everything around you can be giant, daunting, and strange, but with each day, from the store to the post office, facing that fear and doing the mundane is its own little triumph.

    Reply

  4032. One of the most courageous ways of life is
    to survive in fear.. and lord knows these days
    anxiety is a common way.. ah one day the
    fear is gone.. and the blessings of peace
    are remembered in fear before..:)

    Reply

  4033. I came across a quote the other day about courage and fear and your poem reminded me of it. ‘Courage is not the absence of fear but the mastery of fear.’ Faith can help us in just that.

    Reply

  4034. To “rise unflinchingly with fear” is definitely a contrast….seems almost like a contradiction, but then I suppose that is what courage is….being able to act contrary to our fear 🙂

    Reply

    • Thanks. I’m finding as I work through the issue of fear, and my desire to be fearless, that the reality is closer to a courage forged in fear, moving forward in spite of fear. I like that this prompt helped me encompass those thoughts into a poem. 🙂

      Reply

  4039. Really like the contrast of trembling/shuddering/cringing in faith just as you also stand/rise/prevail with fear; lovely juxtapositions.

    Reply

  4041. I really enjoyed your approach to antithesis, Linda. My favorite phrase is ‘stand resolutely with fear,’ which I think is an excellent example of antithesis.

    Reply

  4042. I also think poetry is cathARTic, helping the writer to heal through expression. Thank you for sharing the beauty of truth in your gallery, Linda.

    Reply

  4045. Linda, I am wondering if you are also a painter. I do think that through both visual art and written art (such as poetry) we share parts of our lives. The more of a person’s paintings we see, the more we know that person. The more of a person’s poetry we see, the more we know the poet. I do feel that I know you somewhat through your poetry; and yes, your words DO speak to me many times! Smiles.

    Reply

    • I am not a painter, though my son is an artist he didn’t get it from me. This poem was inspired at a writers conference as I was surrounded by people painting and drawing. All my drawing is done with words. 🙂

      Reply

  4047. I see this as a progression of life. The layers of the picture bring depth and clarity. I think our experiences should help others – heal, enrich and grow. I think you did a splendid job with this.

    Reply

  4049. Well, we read parts of your life weekly so an answer: yes. I know I am changed with all I read – my mind may not change on something, but I gain a different understanding or I learn something about someone that makes me nod my head or look into myself or say of the person – that is amazing that thought or the way they live(d) their life. Sometimes I may not be healed but I am helped and sometimes, that is enough.

    Reply

  4051. Our stories do have power, so I do think that if people took the time to read them — their lives might be changed.

    Reply

  4052. that is an interesting thought – and think that it also changes constantly – sometimes ink – sometimes watercolor – the lighter parts, the blurry and the dark lines… and people can see all of it a bit in us – in our words…

    Reply

  4053. Ah.. yes.. the evolution of ART growing through shades of charcoal.. colors of love.. and finally acrylic and oil.. that never fades away.. yes.. oh yes..
    Art heals.. when fully expressed

    and never
    hidden..:)

    Reply

  4054. Hi Linda! This is a nice book. I am encouraged by your prologue. I’m also writing a book right now. I need encouragement about this “fearful” project from the Lord and it is not a coincidence that I stumbled upon your blog. I pray that you will be filled by God’s Spirit through and through that He will breathe His Spirit in every letter, thought and page that you will write in your book. In Jesus’ name, we claim that His plan for you will be fulfilled and your book will be a blessing to those who are fearful. 🙂

    Reply

  4056. Great post! I sense that call to write as well but that the timing wasn’t right. Blessings as you hear God speaking to you and as you write.

    Reply

  4059. I’ve never heard of a persona poem. What an interesting exercise….to try to put yourself into someone else’s shoes and perspective. Thanks for the introduction 🙂

    Reply

  4064. Our heavenly Father understands our disappointment, suffering, pain, fear, and doubt. He is always there to encourage our hearts and help us understand that He’s sufficient for all of our needs. When I accepted this as an absolute truth in my life, I found that my worrying stopped.

    ~Charles Stanley

    Reply

  4066. I think you have captured well the thoughts John might have had. I always think that the apostles, even though they knew Jesus, had their doubts (as well as their faith), so it is natural as well that we ourselves would periodically have doubts (as well as faith).

    Reply

  4068. Oh, Linda! Isn’t it interesting how many people want or expect lightning bolt experiences from God? But you just so beautifully expressed that this isn’t how God works. He nudges us and He allows us to argue and squirm with His crazy ideas… but if we trust Him enough to go along with His nuttiness, He’s got something SO cool for us. I often find myself saying, “This is so crazy it must be God,” which nudges me forward to see what happens next. And like you, at this conference, I always experience something unexpected, encouraging, and forward-moving in my purpose for Him.

    I wish you the best of luck on your book. Keep us posted on how everything works out. It was a delight connecting with you (not to mention humbling to see how God kept winding my path into yours without us knowing it). 🙂

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  4069. Linda- I am so glad you came to the conference this year – thank you for sharing what you learned! I love how God nudged you in several areas and you listened! Keep me posted on continued nudges from the Lord and how your book ideas progress! – PS it was also great to have you at the recent Writers Connection! Stay in touch- cornelia http://www.corneliaseigneur.com

    Reply

  4072. Linda, this is wonderful! And what an aid to others who are needing to switch over to a gluten and dairy free diet! God bless you. I love how you embraced it! Good lesson for me. 🙂

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  4074. Who needs some old Cathacresis when we can find an Ode over here. Personally, I fear I would burn out if I tried to write a poem a day for a month; quite the achievement.

    Reply

    • If all my poems were as long as yours usually are, then I would burn out too. But if you throw in a few elfjes and a clerihew is a lot easier.

      Reply

  4077. Oh yes. The connection that gets formed between a poet and a reader through written word is precious. I liked your playful ode. Well-penned.

    Reply

  4082. I like Kanzenkura’s twist — “Owed to Poetry”
    I am not a fan of a lot of cliches either, but I found this particular prompt fun!
    Happy ending to NaPoWriMo, Linda.

    Reply

  4092. I wish Eucalyptus grew here in New England. I loved living for 4 years in Arizona and Eucalyptus was part of it. It all makes scents now.

    Reply

  4094. I just scented that aroma outside of Muir woods recently – it is indeed a fine smell. It always interests me how memories become ingrained with our senses.

    Reply

  4095. There are so many moments when a whiff of the past sends you back in time to revisit places, people, events. These experiences are usually some of life’s unexpected little pleasures. “Thanks for the memory….”

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  4097. I love the smell of eucalyptus. This poem tells much about where you’re from. I enjoyed reading it and am glad you posted it here.

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  4098. I too ask myself how eucalyptus smells… like the candy that’s made of it?
    You also reminded me of the new word I recently learned, Petrichor. Got to love that smell of rain on dry dirt 🙂

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  4100. It is funny right how the food and garden is what jumps out to us when we think of our home? “I remember carrots and green beans and radishes and cucumbers (and dill) and ripe red tomatoes in the garden.” Yes! 😀

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  4101. I don’t think I’ve ever known the smell of eucalyptus (or does shampoo count?). Another poem that appeals to all the senses – and has movement too, with that bike ride. Lovely and nostalgic!

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  4103. Yes.. the smell of Eucalyptus is a memory for me too.. a most beautiful tree felled by a Hurricane Nurturing the sweet smell of blossoms.. from a stump.. hoping for it to come back.. and finally saying bye to that beloved tree..:)

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  4104. What lovely memories… Reminds me of morning glories and Roses of Sharon… As a child my father beamed over the row of morning glories he planted outside our bedrooms… No air conditioning. Early summer nights with the windows open a breeze would carry their scent in to me, listening to that far off 9:15 train blow it’s whistle… Your poem just so took me there… The roses of sharon were on the property my wife and I lived at on our first year….. I had forgotten them… Thank you for sharing…

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  4105. Scent is very powerful isn’t it? It can change your mood, plunge you into memories long forgotten. Nice!

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  4107. I really do think that the scent of eucalyptus would stay with a person, and I like how you both began with and ended with the mention of its scent. And, oh what a wonderful garden the one that you remember must have been! Love ripe red tomatoes….

    Reply

  4108. The scent of rain on a hot, dry, dirt road is one of my favorite childhood memories….there is just something so soothing about that smell for me.

    Reply

  4109. I really like the way your poem appeals to the senses, ‘the scent of eucalyptus’ or of the rain, the summer food, the heat. A wonderful write, Linda!

    Reply

  4111. This is very moving. The Power Path school of shamanism invites us to join with them from six till six thirty p.m., in peacefully visualizing the ground stabilizing under the Himalayas. May the earth grow still once again.

    Reply

  4112. nice.. remembering scents goes deep… when i went to california i got to know the Santa Ana winds as well… a different experience from our cold winds over here

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  4117. I also wrote about Nepal earlier today… It almost feels wrong to say I like these, and the repetitive first two lines hammer the message home. Fantastic and inspiring write!

    Reply

  4118. Really like this – well done.
    I sometimes take someone from the gospels to write from.
    See my words at:

    gramswisewords.blogspot.com

    Reply

      • …but at least you have given the warning. If the watchman sees an army coming and sounds the trumpet, even though the city does not respond, the watchman is not held responsible. But if the watchman does not sound the trumpet, the city will still fall, but the blood of the city will be on his hands (OK, that’s a horrid paraphrase, but I hope you catch what I’m trying to say)

  4129. Ah.. the humans and not the
    horses.. can sometimes
    never know the
    water of
    life
    led to that
    water or NoT..
    as they simply
    cannot feel the
    refreshing cool
    of satisfaction
    IN unconditional
    waters of LOVE..
    And a CHANGE OF
    HEaRT FELT CULTURE
    And a ‘religion’ of Unconditional
    LOVE AS WHOLE.. IS THE ONLY
    MEDICINE FOR THAT.. REGARDLESS
    OF THE HORSE ‘WHO SPEAKS’ ‘JUST’ THAT..:)

    Reply

  4131. A universal question… I’d go with the instinct.
    Whenever I feel like saying something, I trust my intuition and say it, even when I know for sure it’ll be unwelcome, because I can’t help feel that it needs to be said anyway.
    But that’s just me (and at times I did pay for it in some way or other).

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  4137. Tis often difficult to know what to do…decisions decisions… (Too) honest opinions, given with the best of intentions and especially to young folk are often resented. I speak my truth softly when the time is right.
    Anna :o]

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  4138. Honesty, candor, advice is too often not warmly received. I only offer it when it is asked for.

    Reply

  4143. I love this. It is nice to remember that we are never alone in whatever path we take and that wherever we go, there is only one ultimate destination. 🙂

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  4148. Ah.. yes GOD does
    know now.. as tHere
    is no escape from life
    as is in living loving it
    as well as we can for
    now.. as one race of
    human beings joining
    in on living life as is now..:)

    Reply

  4157. cleverly written; more than a declaration of faith, it could suffice metaphorically as several other themes; nicely done.

    Reply

  4163. I believe that belief in value and love are very important. Theology, on the other hand that demands belief in ideas and doctrines causes wars unfortunately. I believe that a good heart is good irrespective of beliefs.

    So, belief for beliefs sake, or faith for faith’s sake, nah — give me the universal heart anytime.

    I am happy that you find a source for life and love — as do many others of very different faiths.

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  4167. To be accused of writing too much about God…a wonderful accusation to be faced with! (And I doubt that God minds at all that you extol His name. Lovely!

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  4170. I’m also struck by the “accused”. You were born with every right to be you, believe what you do and write about it 🙂
    Especially when you do so so clearly anyone can relate and find beauty.

    Reply

  4178. Beloved conjures up the Lord of the Rings for some reason today. By the way your biblical references just give testament to your strong faith & beautiful beliefs, so let those who are rattled by it come to my site & find something to really fuss about.

    Reply

  4179. Being accused on “the things of God” is a high compliment indeed. We all have those places our hearts take us and being true to that is admirable. I believe and beloved are wonderful words and statements.

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  4189. It counts! 🙂 Do you ever write haiku, Linda? Sometimes when I know I don’t have a lot of time or energy , I try to do those for awhile. 🙂

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  4190. I know this exact feeling. I’m going through it right now, actually, with someone who I thought was a pillar in my life. It feels like that person is now gone, though… Depression makes people selfish, it isn’t anything you’ve done. But it’s still very painful to see a relationship that has stood so strong for so long can come crashing down in an instant… I hope writing this was therapeutic for you. It was therapeutic for me just reading it.

    Reply

  4193. I have a dear friend who is there, right now. I ache to help her, but only perseverance will get her through. Life awaits on the other side.

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  4196. That’s a tough situation to be in ~ I can imagine the challenges to understand the madness, listen & be there for the person ~

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  4199. I understand the feeling, Linda. It, unfortunately, is not possible to ‘mend what has been torn asunder’ if the other person is not willing to. Hopefully things will change in time….but…sometimes they just don’t, and there is nothing that one can do about it. Sad.

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  4200. Wish I had your gift for expressing many ideas in a few words. Your poems aren’t milk to drink. They’re filled with spiritual meat. And it makes me want to stop and chew!!

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  4205. Fear is the monster that kills all of love and human connection..

    And the longer one goes without connecting.. the harder that becomes..

    as lose or use it.. applies in all matters human and feeling

    in connection too..:)

    Reply

  4211. So many fears, you are right: most of them we do not allow ourselves to acknowledge even to ourselves. What’s a life lived in fear but a life half lived? Wise words, Linda.

    Reply

  4218. Fear prevents us from doing so many things and yet I think a lot of people do not know how to get rid of theirs. And trusting is not always easy, at least all the time.

    Reply

  4219. Your poem is filled with good advice, Linda. One does need to find Someone to trust when we are filled with anxiety!

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  4226. Isn’t it always the way great people are miscomprehended?
    I don’t like Bertrand Russel for various reasons but he had a point which I would re-phrase as – though great minds are capable of thinking alike, lesser ones can be incapable of understanding.
    For instance – not everyone can comprehend quantum physics…
    (no that I’m comparing, but as a novice to the Easter origins, what I’m capable of seeing is a kinship between spirituality and philosophy).

    Reply

    • I appreciate your efforts to understand my villanelle. The Good Friday and Easter stories are near and dear to my heart. It doesn’t require a great mind to understand, just an open heart. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4229. a wonderful villanelle telling of the Good Friday story. The beginning of the end was really just the beginning…as yes indeed, He rose again!

    Reply

  4232. Perfect resonse for Easter, for the prompt… your villanelle sounds very mature, very smooth and well put together. (Not cobbled to fit the to form at all, if you know what I mean).

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  4234. Perfectly timed and the phrasing makes it sound like a tale told around a fire, an old story of shared history….fitting for this time of year.

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  4235. The greatest lesson i learn in life.. at least at this point.. is.. it’s never too late to dance.. even in a wheel chair with hands or eyes swaying side to side..:)

    Everything moves.. and makes vibration of song.. from the atoms in a grain of sand.. to feat of dance and yes.. discerning law and publishing too.. in hands of type or authorized signature of law upheld..:)

    But to be honest.. I’d rather dance than be in my mind.. smiles..:)

    At least some of the time..;)

    Reply

  4236. Just fitting for today’s Maundy Thursday Linda ~ I enjoy the refraining verse of: Betrayed, ‘twas a kiss, the beginning of the end ~

    Thanks for joining in Linda and wishing you and your family Happy Easter ~

    Reply

  4238. This is really impressive, Linda! Totally meaningful and relevant for Maundy Thursday. There was no going back once that betrayal took place. Thankfully the plan continued to go forward.

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  4240. The repeating lines are magnificent. How well you told this story with all of its ugly and all of its beautiful. You did an excellent write here. Blessed Easter to you and yours!

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  4241. Powerful, well-done triple threat, Linda, terrific response for all three prompts. I always like it when biblical themes are weaved into form prompts, or any kind of poetics. You rocked the dVerse prompt, nailing the form exquisitely. Thanks for stopping by my site.

    Reply

  4242. “Now preaching and teaching the Word of God
    Is a calling we all can certainly laud.”

    I certainly can’t, nor do a lot of us. We can’t assume we are all the same.

    On my blog, you criticized me of disdaining the divine but I replied:
    “@Linda,
    If there were a being which were all-loving, all-caring — call it “the divine” or anything else, I am sure I would not disdain it. I instead disdain fantasies which are crippling. My poem criticizes those — in two forms.”

    Reply

    • I am sorry you have not experienced the love of God that I know each and every day, that I find in His Word. I do not assume we are all the same — I am well aware we are not. But the people I wrote this for — Donna, Leanne, and Patty, would all agree. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4243. I like the approach you took to write this poem! And it was interesting to see that many came close to doing what they aspired to do in childhood. And as for Patty, well being a preacher also involves using the skills of ‘actress,’ I think. Holding the attention of an audience is an important thing. A preacher who cannot hold his/her audience’s attention can’t as easily get the message across. Smiles. Cool also to learn your professions, Linda.

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  4244. Law and dance choreography seem so different…very interesting that they are both your interests….do you ever regret following the ‘reasoning’ side rather than the ‘carefree’ side?

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  4245. Happiness & vocation are not always kissing cousins, so for many of us, we shifted gears, vocations, friends, hobbies, & even marriages until we found a good fit.

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  4248. Very interesting to see where you sisters (?) wanted to be and where they are now. Sometimes we end up where our hearts lead us, sometimes where reason does. Info hope you like what you do, Linda. Thank you for writing to the prompt!

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  4256. I always admire those who can feel all this, and especially you – so gifted you can express it all in such a way anyone can relate and be touched by it 🙂

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  4257. WOW!!!! Oh how wonderfully you did with the rhyme and rhythm – all the names of God. such a prayer and such a hymn of praise. I wish you the best on the contest. I am just in awe of this poem.

    Reply

    • Thank you. Unfortunately, I can’t enter it in the contest. The rules changed from last year or I remembered wrong, but it had to be a poem published in 2014 so this one doesn’t qualify. Maybe next year, but in the meantime I’m glad others are enjoying it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4258. Quite lovely. I smiled at what you said about having to repeat the lines to yourself while driving, thinking of all the scraps of paper I have accumulated, napkins, envelopes, anything I could write on… Sometimes I say a line or two into my phone while driving, so I don’t lose it.

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  4265. My mouth just dropped open. Linda, this is so beautiful! When I think of a word that more fully describes it I am speechless. How about majestically beautiful to the 10th power! Is this a hymn? Luther or Wesley could not do better than this. God Bless you!

    Reply

    • Thank you. A lot of thought and prayer went into this one. Although some of the best stanzas came to me while I was driving to work or in the shower and I had to keep repeating them so I wouldn’t forget until I could write them down. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4269. Sacrifice has always held hands with liberty & freedom, & to relive the sacrifice that Jesus made is forever haunting, & now I can add beauty to my list of responses.

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  4272. I do not find the image beautiful, but the love certainly is. How many people are willing to break open their lives for others, following Jesus’ instructions and example! That too is beautiful. Your powerful poem gave me pause and reflection.

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  4274. it takes strength beyond me to not get mad, but forgive those who are poisoned by ignorance… It takes practice indeed. At times it feels satisfying to stoop to one’s level, but later on guilt sets in for being just as stupid. This piece brought those feelings out of me… this is a painful scene, but damnit that is beauty

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  4276. This is a perfect choice for beauty that in all appearance seems to be the very opposite of physical beauty but that can never be equaled.Thank you, Linda. And blessings as we move into this holiest time of year for many of us.

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  4279. Ah yes I was thinking about this very thing as I wrote my poem–how we have come to see a scene of torture and death as having a beauty. Thanks for visiting my blog as well!

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  4281. This poem is very well timed, Linda. The agony of the scene was hard to read, but the sacrifice was definitely the greatest act of love.

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  4283. “I wrestle with sleep
    as words swirl and dance
    playing word games”

    Beautifully done this one – Linda. I love it in the new form.

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  4285. Hi Linda,
    Today, after reading todays devotion in the endless 1920’s classic Streams in the Desert, I searched the topic of refining gold and came across your writing on the subject.
    The reason I did the search on refining was because the devotional mentioned that the refiner doesn’t stop the fire until He sees His own reflection in the gold. I wondered if this is true because that one sentence says so much. No wonder it’s so long. Anyway, your writing said the same thing, and I want to thank you for being careful to include all the sacred parts of this process in your message.
    My hope.. that God is in this suffering.. is all that keeps me from despair, bitterness and insanity. So Thank you. And for anyone who may be struggling, Hang in there with God. We’re all in this together.
    Only in God,
    Rhonda

    Reply

    • Rhonda, I’m so glad you found my blog and were encouraged. I’m reading Streams in the Desert this year, too, though I haven’t read today’s entry yet. I have definitely experience refinement in the fires of life and though at times it seemed like God wasn’t there, looking back I can always see that He was. I pray He comfort, watch over, and refine you in your present trial. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4290. I find the revision has a better flow to it; it’s amazing how using more verbs brings a poem more to life..more than some adjectives 😉

    Reply

  4294. I think this is one of the more remarkable ones as far as improving an existing poem with verbs. Bravo. And I so relate to those words that swirl and dance. I have some right now that seem to reverberate–names from a novel set in Africa by Alexander McCall Smith.

    Reply

  4295. Words lurk…..I like that and how they hide from us. Your revision is so clear and to the point yet it isn’t sparse or lacking detail. I like how they hide like the hole-in-the-wall-gang. That fits in so well with your other imagery.

    Reply

  4296. Wow, Linda….what a change from the original to the one you posted today. Much crisper, I think. Points made well without belaboring them. I was struck by your ending. Yes, lingering in darkness might be safer…but it safety always what is best? Hmmmm.

    Reply

  4298. The hidden words of dream do sing.. in the twilight of morning between dark and light.. ah.. to let it flow.. to just go.. with the rhythm of now.. and no longer time.. digging deeper where subconscious and conscious mind flow become one and tirelessly alive in now.. the spirit of creativity is a wondrous way.. of living without knowing and knowing without living in direction of life..:)

    Reply

  4300. Though I never experienced the Santa Ana, in my mind it linked to the East Wind (which I know too well). That too is warm and dry and always rises in me an unexplainable longing for something undefinable. Never thought about faith in this context, and maybe I should. Thank you 🙂

    Reply

  4309. Friends of mine get the full brunt of the Santa Anas and have had to evacuate their homes in the past due to fire….there is something otherworldly about winds..they have their way, cannot be contained, but affect our lives tremendously..

    Reply

  4315. Those winds can be comforting on a hot landscape ~ I also like the spiritual warmth of the second part ~ Thanks for participating ~

    Reply

  4316. The ten years I lived in S.CA., I enjoyed the warm winds, warmish water, but the tinder-dry brush & annual wildfires rivaled the cuddling with the curse. I do like your comparisons though; didn’t dig the flash-flooding on the desert either.

    Reply

    • Yes, I recall more than once being evacuated in grade school because of wildfires being brought close by the Santa Anas. The dry climate has its downside for sure. 🙂

      Reply

  4329. I do agree that sometimes the deceit of today plunders one’s faith. But He always leads us back!. We definitely do need to learn to trust, and our trust is always rewarded.

    Reply

  4334. I think back sometimes with some regret that I didn’t spend more quality time with my daughter. Yes, there was always, work, shopping, bills etc. Your poem touched me and I can understand why you cried.

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  4339. Some priorities just have to be met, and too often the priority of our loved ones is somewhere down the list, a little too far down the list. You can’t go back, either. We live too much in our minds, and not right here, right now.

    Reply

  4341. This is such a raw and honest confession and I’m so glad it didn’t end the way I thought it was going to…with it being ‘too late’ for you to make the time in your schedule to give him the help he was asking for and needed. That was my story and I regret that.

    Reply

  4342. Oh this is so very true for many of us, I think. We really do need to think of spending time with people who are important to us instead of doing all kinds of things that are much less important. A very real ‘confession’ indeed.

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  4347. def. if we wait until we find the time we will never… it’s good to put the important things first and do all the rest later…

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  4348. Linda,
    I’ve read that children’s book to my kids over the years. I’ll never see that book again without thinking of your blog. Blessings. 🙂

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  4351. Wow . . .what a challenging poem to write, but it is beautiful! I like the Thy in it too . ..just seems to work good and sound right. God bless!

    Reply

  4353. I think that the psalms are especially beautiful, and you have captured the spirit here. I always that would be a good prompt.

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  4357. This is a beautiful representation of your faith and relationship. Your diction adds reverence so I don’t think you need to switch to the modern you and your. Good luck with the rest, you’ve got good constraints to guide it!

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  4361. smiles. you love of your son shines through this…
    i like that you include the temper because we can appreciate
    all aspects of our child…even the more challenging…ha

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  4363. Well, as a mother of two sons myself, you can imagine I enjoyed both the original and the reduced poem very much indeed! Delightful images – I think the newer, shorter version gives more space for the reader to fill in with their own experience and thoughts.

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  4365. I enjoyed the singsong rhyme of the original and the strength of your reduction. They both work well. I think the reduction does allow the poem a depth of metaphor that the original precluded with its specificity. If you do the Terza Rima, I’ll visit again.

    Reply

  4368. Excellent. I like that each stanza shares a different characteristic up until the last stanza which summarizes & made me smile. And I like the form over all.

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  4376. Thanks for reminding us of the fact that hate will not win. It’s easy to become discouraged and lose focus…but God is Love…and “greater is He that is in us than [those] who are in the world!”

    Reply

  4380. Hate is a black hole that never ends.. love is a wave of way.. that always floats.. With love and hope floating together as wave.. hate is always defeated in ocean scan of way..:)

    Reply

  4382. “Even when the battle is lost
    Hate never wins its war against love”

    Beautifully done – and the repetition was intense. Thank you for joining.

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  4384. You have made some good points, Linda, and have given some good examples. I think as you do that in the short run hate may sometimes seem to win, but in the long stretch it is love that wins out. We just have to keep loving…..and if enough of us do this, who knows…it just might change the world.

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  4386. This is a very good poem, Linda. I like both the message and the form. As we experience horror and fear, we can only pray and hope that ISIS will never win.

    Reply

    • As you were commenting I made one slight change to that line so now it’s “Hate never wins its war against love.” Because love doesn’t want a war; it’s hate that wants the war.

      Reply

  4394. Your faith is clearly evident in this piece. Yes, the price that Christ paid was so much more than we can ever hope to deserve. Thankfully, though, He’s not asking us to earn salvation.

    Reply

  4401. Yes, I do think we see the cost every day. There are reminders everywhere…. And yes, it is good that there is someone who can save us from the ultimate cost!

    Reply

    • That was the scariest verse to write (and publish), but I read recently that your writing should scare you a little. I guess that’s because that’s the writing that resonates with others. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4404. the life delayed by disobedience and fear….oy…that one is sad…
    and the kid behind bars, ugh…hate to think that as it leaves the parent with so much questions….our life is not promised to be easy, and while grace is a beautiful thing — it does not rescue us from facing the consequences of our actions….

    Reply

  4422. ” Once He has won the fight
    We’ll feast on bread and wine ” — I especially like these lines, Linda. And I do think He will prove victorious over all!

    Reply

  4432. How very true! and the terza rhyme is wonderful. Just as we discipline our children because we love them and wish them to be better, so it is true God also disciplines us, His beloved children.

    Reply

  4433. we have to be careful asking for that pruning, because he will def give it to us…it is an act of love though…and one that will cause us to grow all the more…

    Reply

  4435. Interesting poem. I love Terza Rima and the way this poem weaves, with an intensity of feeling building to the end. The turn comes in the penultimate stanza for me as it becomes close to the trunk and felt to the root. Well said.

    Reply

  4440. Oh I am so happy you wrote this because I I wanted to do the same…each testimony was so poignant and so moving and transforming. I will share this with a friend of mine who needs to hear this. Thank you!!!!!

    Reply

  4442. This reads like a Psalm, Linda! Thank you for always encouraging us in Christ. When I don’t keep Him as my center, I get off balance. God bless you!

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  4447. Linda, I think this is my favorite of all the poems I have read of yours. I agree that God doesn’t spend much time hanging around in his condos. He is out with the people like his Son was & as we should be as well. Excellent write!

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  4453. Oh I didnt see this sketch of dogs. It is wonderful. I chose another – because it was a dog – and wrote about their devotion as well. So of course I REALLY love this poem!

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  4457. Great poem, Linda! Unconditional love, whatever the form, is a great thing to have in one’s life.
    One of the most amusing quotes that I have ever read on Facebook was something like: “If you have teenagers, get a dog. At least someone will be happy to see you”.

    Reply

  4462. You are right on both counts, Linda….wonderful sketch choice, and yes I agree that dogs definitely unconditionally love…..they are always glad to see their master and show it with the excited tail wags..

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  4466. Ha, ha, I like cheeky rebels! It’s OK to hate snow. I’ll probably start feeling less friendly towards it in a couple of weeks’ time… It’s just that it was long overdue. A very witty, funny poem.

    Reply

  4467. Oh no.. we’ve had none either.. and although i love to see it.. i don’t miss it that much the few times i’ve seen it after it goes…

    And after reading through the poetry today.. i think i’m better without it overall..:)

    Reply

  4470. Dodged the snow bullet here in NW WA. too. Glad to hear your honesty about disliking snow; love to find another “snow-hater” on on the trail; too many Pollyanna poets extolling imaginary programed virtues; just saying.

    Reply

  4497. Emotions are powerful things and can cause us to do some really strange things; standing on the truth is a great antidote to their excesses.

    Really tight, clear writing Linda.

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  4499. Love this Linda! Sometimes when I see someone from my past, from before I accepted Jesus, I don’t think they will recognize me. Haha! I’m always so surprised!
    God bless you and all the change He’s wrought!

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  4500. I love remembering that we are made new! Especially when memories of how I used to be come creeping in. Thank you, Linda, and God bless!

    Reply

    • Debbie, The thing our teaching leader said in the lecture that made me think of this poem was that if we think of ourselves as saints instead of sinners, we will live differently. I think that is true. It’s much easier to slip back into old habits and patterns of thinking if we think “Well, I’m just a sinner, I can’t help it.” But we aren’t just a sinner – we are redeemed, we are saints, we are His new creation! That makes it so much easier to live for Him. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4507. This reminds me of a Bible verse:

    “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 3:18

    Blessings,
    TTheresa

    Reply

  4508. Truly when that light of unconditional love strikes the flesh in all colors of life.. the passion for loving all others becomes a sea of flesh and blood..OF TRUE CHRIST IN LIFE!..:)

    Reply

  4509. true that…
    faith without works is dead…
    not that it is all works…but our life
    and how we react to and interact with others
    is one of our greatest testimonies…

    Reply

  4514. Gotta love this strong proclamation of your faith … smiles.

    Also, I don’t know if you noticed, but your meter is pretty good, possibly because you weren’t thinking about it too much!

    Reply

  4525. Thanks for your comment over in my blog. Really, I did appreciate that you commented. You regretted that Blogger did not have a ‘like’ button. For me, I pay no attention to these ‘like’ buttons, as they mean nothing to me…so I am glad that Blogger does not have one. If I visit a poem, I do find some comment to make on it. I feel that if a person visits me and comments, I want to reciprocate with a comment as well. A simple ‘like’ really isn’t the same. I really like to visit other poets and read their contributions, but after a while if I find people are not reciprocal I don’t bother any more…as I, too, have limited time. If you comment on mine, I will ALWAYS comment back. Smiles. Have a good weekend, Linda.

    Reply

  4529. beautiful! There can be nothing better than to be set apart for the Glory of the One who made us…for then we are truly fulfilling our purpose in life!

    Reply

  4531. Who needs a second stanza; this ten words say volumes; nice turn on the prompt; made Brian smile, & share.

    Reply

  4532. i went to service last night and had such an amazing time
    the spirit was really moving…i did not want to even shut my eyes in prayer as i was just taking it in..and so many were pouring out their hearts in honest prayer….

    Reply

  4536. “One by one
    You stripped away
    Each old fear
    That stood in my way

    To becoming what
    You planned for me
    A child of God
    Hopeful and free”

    Such wonderful thought weaved with so much simplicity – very well done. Thank you for making it to my prompt.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I felt a little bad that I didn’t actually write something in response to your wonderful prompt, but was delighted to find that it fit so well with what I had just written. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4538. The greatest stripping i ever know.. is the strip of fear A way FOR LOVE..

    AND truly with real UNCONDITIONAL love there is NO room for fear.. in A loving heArt.. like this.. of human.. as practicing light..:)

    of love.

    Reply

  4540. Fear and secrets can really hold us back, weigh us down… you portrayed that so well here, and the sense of freedom when finally they are released.

    Reply

  4542. The opposite of fear is faith. So many times keeping a secret can make us fearful, especially if the secret involved shame, or sin. Perfect love casts out fear, however.

    Reply

    • Theresa, One of my favorite verses is 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV:

      “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

      No fear is possible with Jesus! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4550. I can relate to the lack of inspiration. But, I think a famous author said that writing is a discipline and as such, to do so whether or not feeling inspired, is key! Here’s to lots of discipline AND inspiration in 2015!

    Reply

    • The funny thing is I haven’t actually put up the nativity yet. I’ve been too busy and worried about whether the cat will knock it over. But this weekend I will be putting up decorations and hoping I don’t end up with real sheep and camels in my dining room. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4558. smiles… you will need to go and buy pampers.. smiles
    what a responsibility it would be if we really had him in the house as a little child and how he real he lives in my heart even though i cannot see him..
    very cool on the hand-painted pieces… wishing you a blessed christmas time linda

    Reply

  4560. Emmanuel…God with us…literally. Thanks, Linda 🙂
    So the family may stay in the living room but i’d herd the livestock outdoors!

    Reply

  4561. Reminds me of the one my grandmother had…now in my daughter’s house…how we used to play with the figurines and pretend…you are pretending, too, but who knows, maybe it is real.;)

    Reply

  4562. It would be a very special event indeed if only for a moment a nativity set could come alive! I enjoyed the imagination and wonder of this poem.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving a nice comment. What’s so special about this nativity is that my mother-in-law made 2 sets the same year – one for herself and one for her mother-in-law. I’ve been admiring hers for years. Then a few years ago when her mother-in-law passed away she got that one back and gave it to me. It is very special indeed. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

    • At my house, Christmas decorating is all about the nativity. I have multiple sets that go up all over the house and nativity ornaments for the tree. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4565. Both piety & levity in the same piece; lovely, much to savor, cherish, & smile at; thanks for the gentle cajoling & self-deprecation.

    Reply

  4566. Which leads to the question…how would we be different if we truly acknowledged that God IS in the room with us all the time? Good reminder, Linda!

    Reply

    • Revelation 3:12 says otherwise, “The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name.” I know you don’t believe that, but I do. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4570. Such vivid contrasts in the holiest of cities, where great religions claim tenure, ownership, dominion; where blood flows, where souls grow in stature, yes, the Holy Land; a place of dreams for most of us.

    Reply

  4573. Jerusalem is certainly a place of many contrasts and numerous religions. A Holy City for many but also a place of contention, despite its name. We can indeed pray for Jerusalem.

    Reply

    • It is actually quite beautiful, at least it is in the pictures my friend posted on Facebook. And more ancient looking in parts than one might expect. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4579. Hi Linda, your site’s got beautiful design and such interesting pieces, so I’m following! 🙂
    Feel free to check out my writing about publishing: publishinginsights.org
    Sherry

    Reply

  4580. So happy for you , Linda, as it comes down to the wire with this book and then with others waiting in the wings! What a journey you have come on to get to this point. And to think, God knew all along! 🙂

    Reply

    • Debbie,
      It is so cool that He knew before I was even born! And for all the years I thought my life wasn’t worth anything, He was working on making it worthy of Him. 🙂 Thanks for all your encouragement and prayers over the years. (It’s kind of hard to believe we’ve “known” each other for years, isn’t it?). Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such an encouraging comment. I find that when I write for God, it is powerful because He is powerful. It is a blessing and honor to be able to do so. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Yay Jesus, indeed! I’ll be receiving my print proof by next Monday and I’m so excited! 🙂 Thank you so much for encouraging me to write poetry in the first place. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4586. Would you mind if I use this poem for a Christmas program by our K-5th graders? It will be introduced giving credit to you as author.

    Reply

  4593. i like to think of heaven also as a place called now.. a place truly secured by Jesus and so many other ways of blood that freedom stands upon secure.. if we take it as the birthright of so many givers like Jesus.. that give us this way of heaven now..:)

    Reply

  4594. The best part is there are so many different versions of our idea of heaven going around and your poetry has given that gilded edge to all of them! Lovely!

    Reply

  4599. i am all for heaven…i do hope i dont have to sit around in a toga playing the harp though…ha…i guess we shall see once we get there…i will be happy to have a place that is free from strife…

    Reply

  4600. I came upon your poem by accident,no accident I was searching and I found your amazing words were just what I needed. Thank you Linda

    Reply

  4602. So true Linda. We are all at a different place in our lives and the lesson we get can be meant individually just for us. That does make you think about just how mighty God truly is. Thank you for sharing

    Reply

  4603. Truly that is the way all language works.. and approximation of the all the essence that is.. aka GOD2…

    We approximate life through words it seems..

    But life goes on.. without words..

    @ALL
    aka
    GOD
    a
    Gain..:)

    It’s no wonder we see words different..

    as truly
    they alone

    are not real….
    but GOD2..
    ASISISreal!

    With or without words..

    or

    US…:)

    Reply

  4604. I love good Bible study groups. As you said, each person sees a lesson that he or she needs to learn based on God’s plans. The Word of God is “alive and active,” indeed. Great poem.

    Reply

  4605. Linda, He’s a joy to me as well and what a blessing to be able to know that each thing in our life is just for us…and it’s the same for everyone else.

    Have a blessed weekend,

    janet

    Reply

  4606. it’s a great feeling when we get that hint of a Commune with Him in our prayer and realize “that my God truly knows / our daily needs and provides” ….

    Reply

  4610. I think I might have told you that I have been in BSF before. You must be a really good discussion leader That is a great endeavor of the heart and mind that you have expressed in this poem.

    Reply

    • You have mentioned before that you’ve been in BSF – that is so awesome! And if I’m a good group leader, it’s because I rely on God every class and BSF provides great Godly training. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4612. he does…and for me that is part of hte beauty of living in community and learning in community…that we can each take out of the scripture something different…and in that learn all the more….

    Reply

  4616. This was really good. I really liked how you showed that the battle has been the same from the beginning of time until now, and how the remedy is also the same. It tugs at the heart, too.

    I haven’t written nearly as many poems as you have. I have only written a few, but many of them are about inner conflict, and that the Lord is one source of true peace whose love never fails. That is probably why I identified with this poem and liked it so much.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  4617. Great insight into the human condition and the death that pride brings. I love the biblical references and, yes, the Son is where we get true peace. Well done.

    Reply

  4618. “The answer to war
    lies in humility, not more
    fighting with pride
    unless we fight what’s inside”

    That’s the crux of humanity – so much said with so fewer words, very well done – a powerful note.

    Reply

  4619. As I’m reading this poem. I feel as if it can be turn into music.
    Have you ever thought about turning this creative and beautifully piece into music? Brilliant and honest.

    “Pacifism is objectively pro-fascist. This is elementary common sense. If you hamper the war effort of one side, you automatically help out that of the other. Nor is there any real way of remaining outside such a war as the present one. In practice, ‘he that is not with me is against me’.”
    ― George Orwell

    Reply

    • I don’t write music – really can’t even sing on tune very well. I do love music but it’s not my gift. If someone else ever wanted to turn any of my poems into a song, though, that would be fine with me. 🙂

      I love the Orwell quote. Sometimes we are compelled to fight just to keep the peace. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4622. Or as Alexander Solzhenitsyn said: ” the line dividing good and evil cuts through the heart of every human being” .. we have it all within us.. pride, envy… to let the good rule means to be inclusive…

    Reply

  4623. “I love you to the moon”
    great
    a tremendous reminder to all of us of what price Jesus paid for us…and we’re worth less than a half shekel I reckon.

    Reply

  4624. I love this. I agree with the sentiment
    “The answer to war
    lies in humility, not more”

    Absolutely brilliant. Rap to it over a beat and you’ve got something wonderful and essential there.

    Reply

  4625. i think all of our conflicts begin with that battle within…and which ever side wins is the one that determines our actions…and the course of our history….humility is def key

    Reply

  4626. True, Linda, I think a lot of world problems could be solved if people would maintain an attitude of humility rather than superiority!

    Reply

  4633. Yes, that is what it is like to publish. Glad to hear that you are making good headway on the process! And I too like the last line. Whenever you publish one book there is another ready on the sidelines.

    Reply

    • Myrna, If it was all I had to do it would be a piece of cake, but I work full time and have a family, and other responsibilities. But with prayer first, it will all get done. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4636. Great response to this prompt Linda, so many lists to consider in publishing. Hope it is a success, and I do like the final statement, begin the next one. Well done.

    Reply

    • Kenneth, This is the year God showed me that I need not fear anything. Courage is a gift from God; fear is a lie of the devil. 🙂 So my motto: No Fear! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Brian, I’m already working on that, which is why publicizing on Facebook, etc. and telling everyone I know aren’t at the very end of the list. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks. I am actually a publications director in my day job, so at least I know a little about the process, but we don’t publish poetry. 🙂 I’m just thankful for CreateSpace that makes publishing a book of poetry much more possible. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • that’s really fascinating – I’ve been thinking about self publishing an e-book of my haiku and haibun but I haven’t really investigated programs that might help me. I must check out CreateSpace

      • CreateSpace is for publishing a paperback book. To do an ebook you would use Amazon Kindle Direct. We’ve done that with some of our books at work and I think it’s more complicated. Besides, I want to see my book in print. 🙂

    • Thanks. I’ve actually already started on manuscript no. 2, while I was impatiently waiting for my reviewers to get back to me. 🙂 But I’m pretty sure one book isn’t going to be enough. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4642. Definitely not a bad Christian poem, Linda! Thank you for sharing it with us and for helping up understand better what makes for a good poem!

    Reply

  4643. When I saw the word “Christianese” I had an idea of what that might mean, but I wasn’t sure, so I looked it up in an online dictionary.

    I really appreciate the thoughts expressed in this poem.

    Reply

    • Theresa, I should probably look it up, too, as I’m not 100% sure I know what the seminar presenter meant.

      I’m glad you liked the poem – it’s definitely based on personal experience.
      Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4644. Loved the soup Linda!!!! And even tried it with the Fried Onion things…I wasn’t too sure about that, but thot…hey she recommended it so I’m glad you did. I had some 4 hours later…it was way better then…just soak’n all together I guess. I had it with fresh French Bread so I good soak up all the juices- very good!!!!

    Reply

  4645. Linda, thank you for your article on invisible pain. I have fibromyalgia, depression, osteoarthritis,…my daughter and husband have bi-polar. I related to what you said about always feeling pain from things that shouldn’t hurt. I experience the same thing. I learned as a child to deny my pain because I was told it didn’t exist. When I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia I stayed in denial for 4 years. My family still doesn’t understand and it has been about 15 years. Something I have learned, when I am feeling my worse I have to depend on God more. Over time I can see how God has used my pain to teach me many things. His ways are beyond our understanding. I do know he loves me and understands my pain. It is not forever, we will be free of pain some day. I will pray for you. Thank you for your compassionate words. blessings, Kerrie

    Reply

    • Kerrie, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I love it when God uses something I wrote months or years ago to encourage someone. I will be praying for you. I have actually had a great deal of relief from my pain when I quit eating dairy to try to alleviate a different health problem. It’s not easy because dairy proteins hide in a lot of foods you wouldn’t expect it to be in, like lunch meats. I am still sensitive to pain stimuli that others don’t understand, but it’s tolerable now. But the greatest comfort comes from knowing with all my heart that God is with me always. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4646. You have made very good points here – in fact, the most general and most widely (and unfortunately) popular. What you all have missed is that simply because God had destroyed the walls of Jericho didn’t mean the battle was over yet.
    Consider the following passages you, and most everyone else, omits:
    20 So the people shouted when [the priests] blew with the trumpets: and it came to pass, when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city. 21 And they utterly destroyed all that [was] in the city, both man and woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and ass, with the edge of the sword.
    You see, the Israelites weren’t through with the work of God simply because the walls fell. That wasn’t their victory. That was only the doorway to their victory.
    Many times we only see half of what God asks of us. We end up not really completing the whole task. We put a lot on God and take for granted He will do it all. Not so, as evidenced here. We have an obligation to do our part and much of the time we miss the mark.
    I would suggest you consider the information I have pointed out and add that to your analysis and then see where God leads you with that.
    I think you’;ll find it much for fulfilling and much more inline with our necessary obedience.
    I am not advocating violence or war, etc, but the principle that there is more to our job than faith. We must act, follow through and do our part, too. Remember, faith without works is dead.
    You must have eyes to see and ears to hear.
    Good luck.

    Reply

    • Mick, Thank you for stopping by and commenting. I do agree that we must do all that God calls us to do and that faith that does not produce works was never true faith at all. However, I don’t think what you have said is inconsistent with my post. My point in this post is that what God calls us to do when facing an enemy is often, if not always, contrary to what the world calls us to do. I cited several examples of this in my post from the Gospels. God’s instructions to Joshua were contrary to what one would expect, but it was the Israelite’s obedience to these instructions that gave them the victory, not just faith.
      One last thing. You ended your comment by wishing me “Good luck.” I do not believe in luck. I believe in God who is my Rock and my Redeemer. No where in His word does He call us to rely on luck or chance but rather to trust in Him alone. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4647. I’m happy for you! I ain’t doing it, though! Unlike pigs, cows, chickens, and turkeys, I can decide whether or not I want to lay down on the dinner table of something that wants to eat me.

    Reply

      • Linda, Linda, Linda… Did the skinny-dipping girl in the beginning of JAWS see it coming? Did Bethany Hamilton see what was about to chew her arm off? Rock fish in the sand? Invisible aliens with re-breathers looking for trophies? It’s just not worth it for me 😉

      • True, but it was worth it for me to be able to say that with God I overcame my fear. 🙂 Besides, if Jaws eats me I know where I’m going!

      • I know where I’m going, too. I just don’t want to be flossed out of anything’s teeth.

        I love the beach, not the water. Give me a pool – with a lot of chlorine.

  4648. Excited about this one, Linda. I’m awaiting the proof of my next novel–the theme is forgiveness. How many of us allow anger to totally destroy my life? Letting go is hard, but so freeing.

    Reply

  4650. I think no matter once beliefs forgiveness is a necessity for being a humanity.. the concept of revenge has never appealed to me, but on the other hand have I never been a victim either.. good sentiments that wee need more of.

    Reply

  4655. How true. Writing a poem is a challenge and the satisfaction one gets from hurdling that challenge is priceless.
    Sometimes, like you, I wish to write a God-themed poem but I find that words are inadequate to contain the greatness that is God. So, I stop, instead of listen to that voice beyond mine. 🙂

    Reply

  4657. I also find that writing to a form is a challenge. I found it really daunting and it took me a while to attempt it. I enjoyed the honesty and humility of your words. I can say that you have touched my heart with this poem.

    Reply

  4658. I love it when He writes the poems with us, especially those tough form ones! Thanks for roughing me with your poems! God bless!

    Reply

  4659. Oh yes, writing form poems is definitely a challenge! But when it is accomplished it is definitely a beautiful thing. I think our language always may fall a little bit short by our own standards, but oftentimes it does touch people. And that is something to be celebrated indeed.

    Reply

  4660. form is def not my fav, i prefer the wildness of words
    and setting ourselves aside, and heeding him/his thoughts
    and tending his sheep, are def high callings

    Reply

  4667. It is so easy to fall into that darkness when we measure our own worth without remembering the light. ..without remembering we are loved not because of what we do or who we are, but because of Who loves us.

    Reply

  4668. Amen! What a poem. Thank you so much for sharing this. You have no idea how much this was needed by my heart today. So double thanks 🙂

    Reply

  4669. what better to pierce the darkness than the true light?
    the darkness is surely a good liar, often twisting truthes so we will believe it…depression is a hard one to shake, often returning….

    Reply

  4670. you have to admit, the devil is a good and talented lier – and he def. tries to rob us off our joy and the good things god has in store for us.. have you ever read c.s. lewis’ screwtape letters? highly recommended

    Reply

    • Claudia, Yes, the devil is the master liar for sure. I have read the Screwtape Letters – at least twice. 🙂 I’ve also read Lord Foulgrin’s Letters by Randy Alcorn, which is similar and Alcorn give tribute to Lewis for the idea. It is very good, as well. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4672. Sometimes God does punish people for their sins with physical consequences. You can see countless accounts of that in the Old Testament. Hebrews 12 also talks about God disciplining us as His children, so that we will turn away from sin. Yes, not every bad thing that happens is God’s punishment and a lot of natural consequences are not necessarily God’s punishment… but some of it is… and some of it is so that hopefully we will return to Him.

    Reply

    • Damien, There is a big difference between discipline and punishment. The former is for correction, which God definitely does. But punishment isn’t about correction, it is about payment, and Jesus already did that for us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4674. I really liked these principles and how you arranged them in this poem, Linda. Those first two lines were golden, to me. The third stanza also spoke to me as I had obeyed Him recently in confessing and asking forgiveness and repenting. It sounded hard to do, but I felt so much better afterward. It has me asking Him , “what else, Lord?” Thank you and God bless you!

    Reply

  4676. Thank you so much for sharing about this here, LInda! I love His faithfulness to show us what we desire as we seek Him. And I loved that it wasn’t exactly about getting up early . ..that wasn’t His specific point . ..it was about spending time with Him. Wonderful!
    God bless you as you answer His call!

    Reply

  4677. Great song, Linda, and I loved how you changed this little light of mine into this big light. I wrote a little poem awhile back that kind of goes with this . . .

    A candle
    in the dark
    remains
    unseen
    until
    it’s caught fire
    and is
    burning.

    God bless you as you burn bright for Him!

    Reply

  4678. Thank you, Linda, for sharing with us from that rich time of studying His word and having it come alive in you! God bless you!

    Reply

  4680. I typed “Holy Spirit” in your search bar, and this is the post it took me to. I’m so glad.

    “Purity is something that is created in the heart of the believer by the Holy Spirit.”

    My flesh…… this tent of mine, is so impure. I have terrible thoughts and even words at times. I find it hard to believe that anything pure could reside in me. Yet in spite of it all, I still love to hear about the Lord, read about the Lord, and speak/write about Him. I hate my flesh and long to be like Him. I have believed the message of the gospel and called upon the Lord, so He is in me, so something pure is in me.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, Sanctification is a life long process. Even Paul struggled with doing what he did not want to do and not doing what he knew he should. The key is the struggle. Those who don’t know the Lord don’t struggle are like a person who has drowned and floats face down in the water. As long as you keep up the struggle you know you are alive in Christ. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4681. Thank you so much for sharing this, Linda. For allowing His strength to be seen in your weakness. I’m crying, because He is doing similar work in me. So thankful for His forgiveness and restoration and prevailing plan. Please pray for me! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, It would be my privilege to pray for you, and I would appreciate your prayers for me as well. God is good and His plan will prevail in all our lives. I am so thankful that we can take everything to Him in prayer because Jesus’ sacrifice tore the veil into the Holy of Holies and opened our way to our God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks. I really need to add to this page because there are so many other great musical artists that I love. I haven’t heard of Jason Gray, but I will definitely check him out. Thanks for stopping by. I just checked out and followed your blog. I’m looking forward to exploring more fo what you have written and the many resources you provide. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, You’re welcome! This was inspired by our study of Matthew. We’ve been going over Matthew 24-26 the past few weeks. It is so wonderful and encouraging. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4685. Excellently done, Linda, and I’m so thankful that He uses the painful things in our lives so that we can have grace and compassion for others. Love and prayers!

    Reply

    • Thanks. I have been quite amazed how God has led me to write Poetry to share His love and compassion for the broken – and He used you to Hewett me there. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4687. Thank you for sharing your essay with us, Linda. I don’t understand what was seen in this that rated a 29 or a 68.5, but I know that Jesus gave it a big thumbs up. Me too. And, I applaud you for not putting the emphasis on what happened in the past, but on God and how He rescued you out of it all. No matter what has happened to us, He is there, to save us, heal us, restore and renew us.
    God bless you and Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

    Reply

    • Debbie, You are so sweet. 🙂 Throughout this past week the message I’ve received from God is just that – that I should not be putting emphasis on what happened or what I did in the past, but rather the emphasis should be on what He has done to redeem and restore me. That way He gets all the attention and all the glory. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4693. Thanks , Linda, for helping us, too, to learn from our disappointments. You did good. I might have burst into tears and left!

    Reply

  4694. You’ve chosen the perfect ingredients to fill the house with the enticing smells of dinner. And the sound of the can opener always alerts one to the coming meal. Well done.

    Reply

  4697. nice blessing….now can we eat…mmm….you made me hungry and i just finished breakfast….smiles….sounds delicious……you did very well with this linda….

    Reply

    • Thanks Eden! It was a great! You would have loved it. Quite inspiring – now I just need to find time to write all the poems and essays I thought of while there. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4706. Turns out a few words
    are sometimes all it takes… so true, it takes great talent to grab someone with a big word-y statement, indeed… great take on the prompt. thanks!

    Reply

  4707. smiles…i hear you…i went nearly 15 years not writing creatively after college before my reawakening….and wrote a ton of training material and manuals between…ugh…what a waste…lol…

    Reply

  4708. You are right Linda, its that striving to find those few words that together succinctly tell your intention, it is what drives us to write in this form, as exciting as it is.

    Reply

  4709. very well said…sometimes the fewer the words the more powerful the statement. it’s really good you gave it a go…I don’t know how go you are when wordiness is involved, but keeping it simple and tight works well for you.

    Reply

    • Thanks. It’s kind of funny that when I first starting writing poetry I said in a post that I didn’t think this blog would ever become an exclusively poetry blog. And now about 90% of what I write and post is poetry. 😉 I do love the challenge. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4710. I will mirror myself with Jesus…. The author and perfecter of my life. I sometimes feel bad when others insinuate / shows me that they are superior to me but my comfort comes from knowing that, i am me, perfect image of Christ, special by His grace, beautifully and wonderfully made. Is there a reason for me to feel bad? NO!

    Reply

  4712. For a teacher to behave so is so horrible to witness and crushing for a child to experience. Glad you were the kick-ass mama who did what was right for your son! And so very VERY glad he is pursuing his art! Great write my friend.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I’m glad he’s pursuing his art as a career, too. There are so many opportunities for animators and cartoonists these days. And whenever he get’s knocked down, I’m glad he knows I will be there to help him get back up again. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4714. I had a cat called Albert who used to pee in my handbag if I left it open. He grew out of it after being threatened with expulsion to the unwanted cats home . Cats are very smart. They add a dimension to ones life which is priceless. I had him for 15 years and he has left a gap in my heart which will never filled.

    Reply

  4715. I like the way the characters are intertwined here within the pantoum. It can be hard to recapture a passion when someone knocks you down; lucky he had you to help pick him back up.

    Reply

    • I’m the lucky one, to have him for a son. 🙂 And it tickles me when he says he remembers this (he’s almost 19 now) as my most badass moment. He was very aware of me coming to his rescue and that does a mother’s heart good. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4716. some cats really do have knack for getting into trouble. I imagine he’ll grow out of it, but never quite completely. Nice piece.

    Reply

  4720. What a teacher really can do — both good but also very bad… I think children can handle some criticism but it has to be done in the best possible way… And it’s so difficult to do it right. I really like the painting in the picture.. Is it his?

    Reply

  4722. Love your use of the poetry form here…heartfelt poem that conveys exactly how they must feel or we felt when no encouraged or praised…good on you.

    Reply

  4723. How can art be done wrong? As observers, we have the right to not enjoy…but not the right to say it’s wrong. Art is personal expression. Sorry…just had to rant a bit

    Reply

  4724. OH he sounds adorable – you didn’t say he chewed the corners of doors, ripped up your leather couch, puked hairballs on your favorite pillow. or howled at the door to come in, or go out. No he sounds a model cat to me.

    Reply

    • Well, he did chew the spine of my favorite Bible, broke an angel figurine and ceramic container (that I’d had for 30 years) in one jump off the dresser, and has ruined two pairs of my son’s headphone cords. But yes, other than that, a model cat. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • hahahaha. I just knew there was more to that story – just know he’s in good company. I’ve had lots of cats! Down to one that isn’t even mine now. Next I’m going to have a DOG.

  4726. I think you are right about your son becoming stronger for having experienced a few bad teachers…while many artists find they must struggle against something to express their creative nature I think art is and should be a positive and joyful experience

    Reply

  4727. It sounds as if you had an inkling of your kitten’s personality when you named him Alucard–“Trouble” sounds mild in comparison. However, the big purrbox and penchant for sleeping in laps makes up for a lot.

    Reply

    • The name Alucard was chosen by my son, who is a huge anime fan (and future animator :)). But yeah, we could have guessed even before we brough him home that he was going to be a handful. But he is sweet, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4729. ha. he sounds a bit like my cat…he is sleeping on the couch right now…but he has a bit of a trouble streak in him as well…and he will prowl and sneak up on you in a heart beat…lol…

    Reply

    • Thanks. He has a very different personality from the cat we used to have. I hope he fails in his efforts to catch birds once we let him outside, too, but I don’t have high hopes for that. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4732. I am sitting here, with a warm and purring kitten (Po) sitting on my lap while her mama, Spooky, watches birds through the blinds. LOVE the character you drew for us of your feline trouble maker! Well done. And that is one big cat!

    Reply

    • He seemed so little when we got him, but with a 10-inch tail at 5 months old I fear small is not what he is going to stay. 🙂 Thanks for sharing about your little kitten and mama, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4736. A stillborn sorrow.. so well expressed. I thought that a sedoka should give two viewpoints of the same scene.. and I think you do that turn.. the first scene looks at the mother, and the second is seen from the mothers viewpoint… so I think you meet the bar.

    Reply

    • Thanks. It’s funny how as the writer we sometimes miss what others see in our writing. I do like to follow the “rules” and appreciate your encouragement that I have here. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4737. I’m hearing a (sort of) mother’s regret here…. If my suspicion is correct than I am certain this emotion is even more powerful than a mother’s love…. What a great swath of sadness across the world that such a small (sort’a) sedoka would ponder… powerful poetry…..

    Reply

    • Regret, yes, there is definitely that. The “sort of” was because there is no “turn” in the poem as there should be in a sedoka. Just the lingering regret. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4739. that opening stanza…the cry unheard is sad you know…dying before it has a chance….mmm. the heart of a mother hearing it….its hard as a parent to hear…

    Reply

  4742. I’m so glad the idea wouldn’t let you go, Linda. I also have a number of bibles hanging around (from my time as a nun!) but most recently like my Kindle especially for traveling.

    Reply

  4748. smiles…i have quite a few bibles laying around…blame it on my time as a pastor…i would clean out the lost n found or pick up old ones to give out to those that needed….the story is not doe, that is for sure…i love reading the old notes in them as well…

    Reply

  4756. it may just be the darkness that leads us to believe we can never go back, but I suppose that depends on whether the light of the sun that eventually will rise will shine bright enough to see the truth behind the war raging within. (forgive my rambling, but I feel something more hidden in this story than what is on the surface…and often have a tendency to ramble on.)

    the dog, the he who lied, the we, the cute face…have me pondering whether there is a third entity in the car (and if so who does the cute face belong to) or if by chance the dog can talk.

    this piece has my brain running in overdrive. I apologize for the inane rambling a that have ensued, but I hope you take it as a compliment that your piece has inspired such in only 14 lines.

    Reply

    • I don’t mind the rambling at all. You all some good questions, most of which will never be answered. I can tell you the cute face belongs to the dog. Everything else must remain a mystery. Thanks for this quote interesting comment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4758. Quite a journey.. I’m glad you had the dog for company and support. As others have said, that gun took me by surprise, made me realize how serious this trip is to her.. the hell of my own making.. great line. Nicely penned.

    Reply

  4759. The gun was a bit of a shock…we do make our own hells, though and who knows where we’ll end up? I just hope she doesn’t use it. So well done. Thank you.

    Reply

  4761. Wow, the first word being “drive”, the majority of us got into cars and raced off on some adventure or other; this one conforms to sonnet form, I think, as well, so good on you. I liked the twist ending; good job on the prompt.

    Reply

  4763. Fear of the unknown is a powerful – if unwanted – driver. Good the little dog was there to offer strength and companionship. Forever forward – until we see the light in our darkness.
    Anna :o]

    Reply

  4766. this hell we are in is one i have made…lots of truth in that line…we oft make our hells…what a story you spun…we make one decision and the slope is slippery and the next thing you know we have a gun on us and heading toward god knows what…

    Reply

    • Yes, it took me by surprise, too. But I like the way you looked at it. Thanks for such a great prompt, regardless of whether the words were perfect rhymes. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4771. the gun hid in your purse – i surely wasn’t expecting this… sometimes we bring ourselves into situations that are not easy to escape… moving forward is a good thing – and hey – what about that special sword against the darkness…? smiles

    Reply

    • Claudia, I wasn’t expecting that either! I was thinking about that special sword, but that is so often my go-to answer (and it is the best answer) and somehow I wanted to capture a moment before there was any real knowledge of that option. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4777. when we realize the reality of who is on our side
    and really allow our faith the reigns
    its amazing how fearless we can be.

    the one that inspired this must be quite the person.

    Reply

  4782. Hi Linda, can you please tell me where in the bible talks about the law of double jeopardy. thank you so much.

    Reply

    • Alberto, Double Jeopardy is an American legal concept that is not specifically discussed in the Bible. I was using it as an analogy to the life believers have in Christ. Though we would be found guilty without His saving grace, because of His atoning sacrifice on the cross those who believe and trust in Him will not be found guilty. Romans 8:1 is one place this principle is found: “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.” I hope this helps. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4783. I have written a song now being put on cd and I was wondering what your copyright laws are about putting the picture of God Collects Your Tears picture of a mason jar? Tell me what your requirements would be for using such a picture? Thank you.
    Carol A Adams

    Reply

    • Carol, I am not sure which picture you are referring to. If it is the one that is with my post God Keeps Your Tears in a Bottle that is posted on BrokenBelievers.com, I do not hold the copyright to that picture and do not know who does. Linda

      Reply

  4784. Very nice. I love the rhyme. And it is an important issue you address. Hopefully Mary lived to hear the testimonies saying Jesus had stood up again.

    I hope you have a nice Christmas!

    Reply

  4786. Oh, poor puppy, I had a cocker… the “cone of shame,” ha ha…
    We used to say “better than a slap in the belly from a wet fish,” which I think came from a BBC program on PBS. Thanks for commenting on my “mom” poem as well! Peace, Amy

    Reply

  4787. The ADVENT, the birth of Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords
    has divided not only mankind but all of history; we use B.C. for before Christ, and A. D. for “anno domini — “in the year of our Lord”. Yes, it was
    the most significant event in the history of mankind, if we include the cross and His resurrection in our calculations. God bless you!!

    Reply

  4788. We are preparing for a Christmas Tea at our church tomorrow morning. As my co-worship leader & I have sought The Lord in our preparations, those three songs have been selected as two solos & a group worship song. I am prepping tonight with some last minute notes for my introduction & stumbled upon your blog! There are no coincidences! Praise God for His provision & timing & confirmation!

    Reply

  4792. …you reminded me of some figures in my life who meant a lot to me….thinking of them today made me smile…can’t remember all of their sayings, but it'[s true to form ;

    Reply

  4793. Great response to the prompt, taking a folk adage and stretching it between family and culture and earth’s tribe. And leaving us to wonder, whose cone of shame is greater now? Some lessons indeed are durable.

    Reply

  4794. My mother said that, and now, a phrase that I find myself saying is, “I’d rather be poked in the eye with a sharp stick than…….(fill in the blank)….the last time I used it was on Thanksgiving, when I told anyone that would listen that I would rather be poked in the eye with a sharp stick than go shopping on Black Friday….or even the night before…on Thanksgiving!

    Reply

  4795. Well I just read your poem aloud and we smiled and giggled because of course our moms had said that too. But the clincher was how well the dog came to know its meaning – really well done…that’s language for you!

    Reply

      • I love this , Linda .. and your comment that you just can’t make this kind of stuff up! So true! Thank you and God bless you!

      • It does seem the best poetry comes from real life experiences. It’s so good to hear from you. I’m glad to know you are okay following those tornados you had. I pray for a blessed Christmas for you and your family. Peace, Linda

  4796. Funny how those little phrases take on true meaning when you experience that situation. The sharp stick one is like so many I’ve heard that go in one ear and out the other. Your poem slowed it down and made me see what it means.

    Reply

  4797. I like how the wandering phrase hits hard reality with the dog. Sometimes it really does come down to a real stick poked into a real eye.

    Reply

  4799. Ya’ gotta’ love mom’s expressions. My mom had many. I always thought that they were Sicilian in origin since her parents were Sicilian born. Boy was I surprised to learn that most were Yiddish. How was I to know she grew up in an Orthodox Jewish neighborhood… So who knew…

    Reply

  4800. yikes…cant imagine actually taking a stick to the eye…that makes me squeamy…its funny some of the phrases that attach to different places as well…and when we run into again from someone else….its cool

    Reply

    • This was actually not the worst “eye” incident we’ve experienced with our Cocker Spaniels, but the worst still makes me too squeamish to even mention. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4802. I have never heard that phrase, but I certainly understand its meaning. Not much would be worse than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick. I keep thinking…poor dog who really DID endure such a poke. Fascinating how such expressions travel from state to state; and one wonders how they originate.

    Reply

    • Yes, the origin of such sayings is a fascinating to me. I can’t count how many times I’ve Googled “origin of the phrase ___________” with varying degress of success. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4803. Each family has their own little sayings and we do not always know where they come from. I like your story about the Michigan stranger! So sorry about your dog.

    Reply

  4804. Great anecdote! My parents both have rather idiosyncratic sayings, which sound even stranger when translated into English. ‘You see the straw in someone else’s eye and not the telegraph pole in your own.’ Or ‘Your calculations at home will never be the same as the calculations at the market.’

    Reply

    • Thanks. Your first quoted saying from your parents is very similar to something that is actually from the Bible. In Matthew 7:3, after telling the crowds not to judge others, Jesus is quoted as saying, ““Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4805. Great saying…. it has the perfect irony in it… I really like that, and imagine that poor dog…. reminds me of something we said when I was young… “it’s better to be rich and weel than poor and sick”…

    Reply

    • Yeah, poor old Bo was neither rich nor well, though he was quite overweight at one time. And he had us who loved him so much, in spite of his many ailments, the stick in the eye being but one. I really miss him. He was a good dog. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4806. ouch…. a stick in the eye is no fun…. ha…my mom has a few sayings as well that i remember from my childhood and it’s cool if you meet someone along the way who just knows the same…lot of wisdom in most of them..

    Reply

  4812. it is at times hard to fathom the love of God….that he would love one such as us…and grace…its hard int he context of our won world in which we only barely understand such a love…

    Reply

  4813. You have caught the true meaning of the season, Linda. His love for us is so very visible at this time of year! God is indeed with US.

    Reply

  4816. Wonderful set of images–snowflake among many, baby among many, Jesus–people should be very careful of who and what they abuse. Best yet, work through love.

    Reply

      • It has been a few minutes since I read it – but still wondering on the effect of snowflakes. I have become a father not long ago and so I could relate to it. It felt so unique and especial for me – the comparison you have used. 🙂

  4822. What you write is challenging. Christ is the vine, remember? And we are branches. The stem is not a branch. Christ was God, in the being of a man. He was not a star among others, as people today perceive the sun as a star.

    Reply

    • What you say is true, which is why I didn’t use a metaphor of vines and branches in my poem. He was fully man, just as we are, and so we are similar just as each snowflake is similar to others. But He was unique because though He was fully man, He was also fully God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4828. We all could do with a dose of Christ consciousness right about now, as the new pope is going to be allowed to visit Jerusalem, and the Middle East jahidists plot holiday mayhem; impressive use of the prompt; thanks.

    Reply

  4834. I enjoyed your seasonal poem Linda and the great use of the form – in both senses of the word. It is also a wonderful reflection on the meaning of Advent.

    Reply

    • Anders, I’m all about structure in my poetry. Even my free verse has structure! Our God is a God of order and so I like to follow suit. 🙂 Personally, I love Advent and taking time to reflect on the true gift of Christmas. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4842. Beautiful, Linda!! I have been thinking a lot about the meaning of advent as well….both as leading up to the birth of Jesus & also leading up to the time when Jesus will come again.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. It is true that God made us to be in relationship, with Him and with others, and life would not be the same without friends and family. The friends who inspired this poem are especially dear to me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4871. Today I learned something new! Until now I had never heard of a stack poem. Now I am wondering what kind of stack poetry I could come up with, especially in my newly acquired theological library (on loan from a professor who moved to Canada – 19 banker’s boxes full). I could easily read from my own shelves of books, but wouldn’t it be neat to open up a box and write a poem based on what was packed by someone else?

    Reply

    • Anthony, That would be fun! Sounds like a great challenge. I hadn’t heard of a stack poem before last week either. I like the one title Mere Christianity that I wrote with the books from my home library, but this one was kind of fun, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4872. You have really nailed the importance of friendship in your poem. I really liked the repeating line “images of love on my heart like graffiti. ” Friends are irreplaceable treasures.

    Reply

  4873. I just found your site and I really like your blog. I am a newbie blogger and I would like to have a recipe page on my blog as well. Can you offer any site customizing tips on how you created the index page?

    Reply

    • Rick, I created my recipe index by creating a new page (as opposed to a post) and then I manually add each recipe with a link to the recipe post each time I post a new recipe. They are manually alphabetized.

      In hindsight, it might have worked better (or at least required fewer steps) to create a Recipe category and then include a menu by category, but by the time I thought of this I already had too many categories that I didn’t want to include in a category menu. I wish you the best in your blogging adventure. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4874. I actually read the “Fried” in the 1st spine as part of the title, so I got a happy layer of fried cheese & sharp teeth too. (I tried writing with my workplace books on sociology, erk, couldn’t find my way through — hats off to you!)

    Reply

  4875. Nicely written. I was going to write a similar blog to my friends when I stumbled upon your post and thought this is exactly what I was going to cover. So, I forwarded your post including your name for proper credit to you. Keep up the good work. Unless you have an objection I will possibly forward other writings with proper credit given to you of course.
    Amen

    Reply

      • OK…I’ll admit that there are some good lawyers out there…but I’ve also met a few that make pond scum look good…

  4888. A strong and stirring message in this poem Lisa. Nice work! I too have read and know of many of these books. I’ve recently started to read Embracing Grace by Daniel Brown, heard of it? So far so good.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I have to give God the credit for this one. He wrote the story and then He gave me the words to share it during my prayer time yesterday. I’m so glad these words were a blessing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, Thanks! We are studying Matthew in Bible Study Fellowship and just finished chapter 3 about John baptizing Jesus. There is so much wonderful truth in God’s Word, I just had to share. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4909. You are a wonderful blogger and blog friend! Wishing you many more years of sharing His heart and words here!
    Thank you and happy anniversary!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are so sweet, as always. Your encouragement along the way is one of the reasons I’ve kept it up so successfully. You were a great example to me, too. I hope all is going well with you while you take a much-deserved break from blogging. I’m glad you are still around and commenting. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Bjorn, What a nice thing to say! 🙂 I actually consider those who read my blog to be friends, too. It’s a small world and life is too short to only consider those we see face to face as friends. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4919. yes, life is the BEST gift… seeing all my loved ones growing older really makes me realize how short our time is… now, the only thing I really want in life is to have LIVED and I did everything I wanted when I (hopefully) grow older and near my time of passing.

    Reply

  4931. So true, Linda, we can each foster peace and kindness to people in our worlds…each in our own way.

    And, yes, indeed…”Blessed are the peacemakers.”

    Reply

    • Mary, As much as I dislike autumn because it means that winter, my least favorite season, is soon to arrive on its heels, I think you are right. God does know what He’s doing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4946. I really believe that there is never attaining our spiritual goals as it is a continuing journey as long as we are in this world. The poem is wonderful and the words remind me of the joy that we have through our relationship with Him and through His love for us.

    Reply

    • Sissy, I’m so glad you stopped by and appreciated the poem. I agree there are always improvements He can make in us and that it will be “in the day of Christ Jesus” that we will finally attain the goal He has set before us. Let us keep on with the race. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4957. yep – he wanted our attention with the things he did – and i think it was also to help us to build trust and prepare us for what he did on the cross

    Reply

  4963. For a short period in my life I lived the consumerist, keeping-up-with-the-Joneses lifestyle. It was a depression period that thankfully helped me to see what I was missing. Oh, and any poem referencing Theodor Geisel is okay in my book. =)

    Reply

  4966. Happiness does come from within – for most of us – and not in personal acquisitions.
    Sadly, there are many of us too that are only happy in ownership of the latest gadget, clothing item, etc….
    Anna :o]

    Reply

  4971. true… happiness and joy come from within and not at all from the clothes brands we wear or the car we drive… there seems to be a counter movement among some young people to go off-brand and that’s hip now…ha..i like that

    Reply

  4972. Linda. Could I please use one of your poems to read at a civic service in the near future. The poem is Flowers in Bloom. I would of course credit the poem to you in the reading.

    Thank you in anticipation

    John B Casey
    j

    Reply

  4973. Your comment reminded me that I haven’t visited here in a while so I thought I would stop by. I’m glad I did. What a simple and powerful cinquain! I love it. Would you mind if I use it at school? (I’m a history teacher at a Christian school and I always put a quote or poem or something on the board in the morning).

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad it was a blessing. I am still amazed at how the Lord has drawn out the poet in me over the past few years, and it all started from me reading your simple poems of grace and truth. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. This has always been one of my favorite posts because it reminds me how good God is to show me His truth when I look for it. I look forward to checking out your blog, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4983. Beautiful. I spent a summer in those mountains, working in the conservation corps. out in the wilderness we always looked forward to the times the fire crews were in camp with their high spirits and wicked humor, rather than out battling the fires. May they all stay safe.

    Reply

    • One of those 19 was from my neighboring town, and so when his body was brought home and he was carried through our town the main streets were lined with flags and people paying their respects. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  4987. I have heard of it in the news. It is terrible.
    You created a vivid picture of how it would be to fight with this destructive force. Firefighters are indeed really brave.

    Reply

  4989. I just recently made the trek from eastern Washington to the Olympic Peninsula, & I, too, took particular notice of that ominous smoke. I hope they can contain those fires soon. I hate to see nature fall victim to some people’s ignorance.

    Reply

  4997. Here in Reno, we’ve been living with smoke from both the Yosemite and the American fire since August 11th…a sad, and daily reminder of these tragedies. My cousin’s husband is a forest service firefighter out of Bakersfield and is, no doubt, involved in one of them. I like that you remind us to pray for these heroic men and women.

    Reply

  4998. oh heck…i’ve heard about the fires in the news.. the destruction is just terrible and kudos to those firefighters who risk their lives to save others

    Reply

  5000. Thanks, Linda, for talking about marriage today. Your post reminds me of a song out right now, by Chris August .. .God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I had never heard that song before. It is beautiful, and the perfect complement to my post. Thank you so much for sharing it. 🙂 Our God is a God who restores! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5004. Linda, you just get better and better. This made me cry! I know, I’m weird, but it is good when you write poetry that evokes strong emotions in others. God bless you and Happy Anniversary!

    Reply

  5005. A beautiful 1st 55 My Friend.
    A true Romantic…
    I hope you found the challenge to be Fun
    Loved your Loving 55
    Thanks for playing, please join us again, and have a Kick Ass Week-End

    Reply

  5007. awww – that’s lovely..what a romantic story… and so cool that he knew immediately that you were the woman of his dreams..nice

    Reply

  5011. This is beautiful, Linda! I love the message and the fact that you were even able to write it in rhyme. I do think it shares The Message very clearly! I am glad the prompt really resonated with you.

    Reply

  5016. We were re-routed and stuck in a big traffic jam awhile back too. It took us 3 times as long to get home as usual. Afterward, I was so thankful that I had enough gas! haha!
    Thanks for writing and sharing , Linda!

    Reply

    • I think the only thing missing from the recipe is the starting time of the event we were heading for! Thankfully we made it in time, but freeway traffic can sure be frustrating. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5031. Hiya, I like the way you managed to have the lines stand on their own two feet [so to speak ]
    That is not easy to do.

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad you liked this poem. I’ve had several more divine appointments since, and several more blog post ideas, but I’ve been so busy that I haven’t had time to share more. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks. It was a great prompt idea. I actually wanted to write a few more stanzas but didn’t have time that day. I may add to this sometime. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5042. I was never big on country music but I appreciate it a lot more now that I’m older… a lot of the words ring true. Nice writing here… and I agree, no one will regret their lives weren’t sad and lonelier, heartache filled. Very well said.

    Reply

  5043. 1000 miles of misery
    stem from pride,

    is a wicked true little verse inside your poem…and love will come, or it wont, but def not, if we give up hope…

    Reply

  5044. it’s tough to lose someone we love…watching clouds, engines roar…tells a whole story… so sad and it’s good to have people that speak those words of hope in such moments..

    Reply

  5053. I think it is the little things that truly are the most important in life; and I enjoyed seeing your thankful list, as I am drinking MY cup of coffee right now!

    Reply

  5055. Linda, thank you for the reminder. I see this a lot as well…and sadly even among my kids, my response is to keep honor and integrity in-tact and first go to God though.

    Reply

  5058. Today is one of those days for me as well – sadness and joy in a cup that only God can serve us from. Wonderful poem, and truly a blessing.

    Reply

  5060. i think the sad and joyful things often go hand in hand and we can’t really separate it but have to find space to live both… wishing you strength and a wonderful birthday with your son as well linda

    Reply

  5062. What a great gift He has given us to give to others . ..you are so right, Linda. Praying to receive all that He gives and use it each day, giving it away. God bless you!

    Reply

  5066. Yes, it all comes down to that stanza of forgiveness… This is where we bloom and flourish. I wish I’d known that when I was younger. 🙂

    Reply

  5067. Sorrow and anger certainly CAN eat away at a person. I like the concept of the deep ravine carved by the river of tears. I also like the idea of tears of forgiveness…and peace coming once again. You definitely have described well the process many of us have experienced one time or other in our lives.

    Reply

  5068. Tears of forgiveness
    water my soul’s riverbed
    allowing flowers of love
    to flourish and grow…. forgiveness is such a magical key and allows beauty to grow again instead of things rotting away in bitterness… very cool

    Reply

  5069. sometimes it is in those tears where we find our salvation….i like the tears watering the flower which opens up to a greater hope…smiles.well played out metaphor in this…

    Reply

  5070. Linda, this is such a powerful poem .. it brought tears to me, just because I have experienced both these kind of tears and know the beauty of those tears of forgiveness. Thank you so much for writing as He asks you to! God bless you!

    Reply

  5071. This poem illustrates the truth so perfectly and vividly. It is a very moving poem, and I love that you used the fragrance of alyssum to describe the peace that arises in your heart for two reasons. The first being that it is a sweet fragrance that is not overpowering but is definitely alluring to passers by,especially when a gentle breeze stirs them. The second reason is that I have seen the photo of your alyssum, and now I will really smile when I look at it again.

    I like your scripture reference, and another comes to mind (Matthew 5:4). I was also reminded of a song I liked when I was a little girl. Here it is. I hope it blesses you.

    Linda, thank you so much for sharing this incredibly beautiful poem, and also the precious glimpse of what the Lord offers us.

    Theresa

    Reply

  5072. Waiting is always a good thing for me to do, developing that patience I need! God reminded me earlier this week to praise Him and thank Him now, because I have all I need with Him. There was no need to wait to do that. Thanks Linda, and God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are so right – there is no need to wait to praise God for the blessings He has promises because He is always faithful and His timing is perfect. God bless you in the waiting. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5073. I have a have been thinking some more. I have a hard time with words that are sometimes nouns and sometimes verbs. In the psalms it is used as a verb a lot. Then again there was the man that said he had belief, but needed help with his unbelief, and belief and trust can be so similar.

    Either way, I really need to work in the trust department. I am so thankful the Lord is leading you to blog again. It is such a big ministry to people like me.

    Reply

    • Theresa, I agree those concepts that are both noun and verb are challenging. Trust is one of those concepts. I don’t struggle so much to trust when it comes to God – even when things don’t seem to be going the way I’d like – I think because trust in God (as a noun) is His great gift. It is trusting other people that I find more difficult, and yet necessary. I’m glad that you are blessed by my blogging. 🙂 I don’t know if I always get it right, but my goal is always to glorify God with what I write. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5075. Excellent, Linda! I’m glad you went back and did a Rondelet from that trust post! It brings it to light all the more! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks again for the encouragement. Trust has been on my mind lately; it goes hand in hand with honesty and faith. And I have so much fun with new forms of poetry. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5078. Wonderful thoughts about trust, Linda! I have a family member who is dear and much loved, but has a tendency to not trust anyone. I know where he is coming from .. there is a lot of deceit going on in the world today . ..but it’s crazy making to not trust others, even strangers at times! I love what Theresa said too, that trust is a gift from God. Thank you and God bless you!

    Reply

  5083. …for me trust is something you achieve for being true & honest to yourself & to the world…

    …it is something you reward to a very few who proved worthy for being true & honest to the world & to themselves…

    …smiles…

    Reply

    • That is a lofty goal. I have so far only found one in my life truly worthy of trust, and that is Jesus. Yet, to get through each day, I must trust others to some extent. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5085. I am so glad that you wrote on this subject. There are times when we choose to allow ourselves to be vulnerable to others by accepting their help and also by assisting them when they need help. Sometimes we take that chance because we have a measure of confidence in them, sometimes a measure of confidence in both them and in God, and yet at other times (especially when it comes to strangers and to people we do not know well) because we have a measure of confidence in God alone. I believe our actions reveal whether or not we possess trust. I think trust is very similar to belief…works will follow, but trust, like belief, in its most basic form is a gift of God.

    “8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
    Ephesians 2:8-9

    Reply

  5087. Terrific poem, Linda, and I’m joining you in praying for your friend to be healed . Reading your poems today made me realize how much I’ve missed your posts! 🙂
    God bless you and have a good 4th!

    Reply

  5090. Loved this, Linda! “I have seen the beginning, because I have known the Son” and “I’ve not yet seen the end, but I know the One who’s there.” I just found such comfort and peace in this poem. Thank you and God bless you!

    Reply

  5092. Nice to see you, Linda. I do agree about the silence. It IS important to listen to the words of others, to nature, to ourselves.

    Reply

  5094. Thanks, Linda .. great review! I’ve never heard it put this way so this is food for thought for me, and for prayer! God bless you!
    p.s. you had me giggling about having to get the super saver shipping! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad you liked the review. And I wish I could giggle about the super saver shipping. I’ve spent way too much at Amazon because I was just a few dollars short of $25. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5098. Dear Lnda,I have only just found this site and it is so joyful and peaceful.
    In our Mothers’ Union we are having a festival celebrating The Seeds we Sow’ and our branch’s them is Gentl-ness and self-control. I have read you poem and would like you permission to use it in our display please.
    God Bless

    Barbara

    Reply

    • Barbara, I would be happy to grant permission for you to print and display my poem so long as you give me attribution as the author. I’m glad this poem was a blessing to you and pray it will be to your women’s group as well. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5099. Do you think Christ was referring at all to a literal birth? By that I mean a literal spiritual birth, after we have completed our physical life?

    Reply

    • Ben, As I read scripture, it seems to me that Christ was not referring to something that happens when our physical body dies. Rather, He refers to a literal rebirth of the spirit when we beleive and are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Our spirit, which was dead in our sins, is alive again. This happens during our physical lifetime. The eternal life He promises isn’t something to be gained after our physical bodies die. Jesus said, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” John 17:3 (NIV). I also believe, based on scripture, that why our physical body dies our spirit lives on in a new, resurrected body just as Jesus appeared in a new, resurrected body when He rose from the dead. I don’t know if that really answers your question. Thanks for stopping by. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, Thanks for the prayers. They are much appreciated right now. It’s been a long couple of months. I can’t believe I haven’t posted anything new since the day before Easter, but there has just been too much going on – some of it good, some not so much. I am certainly not done blogging, but have needed this break. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Happy to hear from you, Linda
        Keeping you and your family in prayers. Praying His peace as you take each day step by step.
        Blessings
        ann

  5101. Here in England over two years since you wrote your poem on the Fruits of the Spirit – in the early hours I have searched google for something on Gentleness and here are your words. I am putting together a bi-monthly evening called “Heart2Heart’ on the third Beatitude – meekness, or as the Septuagint would have it, gentleness. So, I hope you don’t mind if one of my team reads just the verse on that theme. It seems the Lord had it there for me just when I needed it to enhance our meeting. Thank you for putting it in the public domain.
    Bless you. I hope you are still writing.
    In Christ, Jen Sutton

    Reply

    • Jen, I certainly don’t mind if you read my poem as part of your Heart2Heart meeting. I am blessed to know that what I have written has been such a blessing to you. However, though I have made this poem available online it is not in the public domain. I maintain the copyright on all my writing and am actually in the process of putting all of my poetry together in a book. I am happy to give permission for you to use this poem as you have mentioned. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5106. I love the Book of Ruth; being a Moabite, she was one of the skeletons in Jesus’ family closet 😉 Nicely woven poem, with strong rhyme and rhythm.

    Reply

  5107. it is nice to have the reassurance that the harvest is coming…and that there may be a reason behind the toil we feel at times….that we go through…

    Reply

  5109. Thank you for sharing the hope and surety of Jesus with us today! Love your poems .. .think ‘book’ some day, okay? God bless you, Linda!

    Reply

    • Deb, Actually, 158 of my poems are already in a single “book” document, though not in the order I want them to be yet. I just need to add my 40 Lent poems and a few family-related poems that I hadn’t originally thought I would include, and decide on chapter titles and which poems go in each chapter. I already have someone who has agreed to edit it for me. 🙂 I haven’t decided whether to self-publish or try to find a publisher, but there will definitely be a book. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, After I posted this I realized I didn’t include Jesus as part of what makes us whole, but He is part of my understanding of us as being body, mind, and soul. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5118. I loved this Linda . .could feel that despair and empty basket, and then the renewal and hope of God, filling up all the empty places. God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, We all have those times of loss, of feeling like our basket is empty. It is so comforting to know that our God is faithful to bring us through to the harvest. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5120. Ah, Linda you have me sighing with delight. Each of these excellently crafted cinquains is beautiful; together they are beyond words. Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

    Reply

    • Tony, Thank you for such a nice compliment. I am so blessed by God to be able to write poetry that glorifies Him! I am loving this 40 poems for Lent project. 🙂 And I was so happy to learn about how to write a cinquain from you. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5124. grace is def an amazing gift…without it how tenetive would we be about life…and we would lack such freedom as well…not that it is the freedom to sin but…i think you will get what i am saying…

    Reply

    • Thanks! He did have some great artwork to submit and did a good job on his essay, too. Plus both of his art teachers gave him letters of recommendation. 🙂 May the Lord grant him favor with the contest judges. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5132. Thinking of you, Linda, and lifting you up, as you journey through Lent, lending God your pen and your heart. Love and prayers.

    Reply

  5136. …one more time to hear a voice. Yes, a tough, very tough thing. Expressed quite lovingly, sweetly here in this poem.

    Reply

  5139. This is a beautiful cinquain, born in adversity as so many of Adelaide Crapsey’s were. So sorry to hear about your loss. Will be praying for you.

    Reply

  5140. the road is not easy…even when it is….and we should be ever faithful either way…we tend to forget when it is easier how much we need that traveling partner…smiles.

    Reply

  5141. not always easy to keep walking when the road is tough.. one of my fav heroes in the bible, joseph the dreamer was a master in making the best of such times, he’s my big idol

    Reply

    • So true, and my road has been tough over the last week. But there is always hope, especially when we remember the great heroes of the Bible like Joseph. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5142. Thank you, Linda, for bringing us another poem packed with His promises! Aubrey’s been singing, “He’s still working on me”. 🙂 God bless you!

    Reply

  5143. I’m so glad you shared this. What a gorgeous piece-together of scripture.

    Praise be to the Lord,
    who this day has not left you
    without a guardian-redeemer

    That’s beautiful.

    Reply

    • Thanks! I think this is my favorite of the found poems I’ve written. It was very much Spirit-led at a time when I had no idea what to write. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Charles, I am pleasantly surprised by how many readers have said Ruth is one of their favorite books! It is a great story and I love how it fits into the bigger story of the Bible. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5145. I love the book of Ruth too and how you kick started your study with this beautiful poem. It so encourages me! Thank you and God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad you liked this. When I write found poems it always feels a bit like I’m stealing, but they are always a blessing to someone especially if they are from scripture. This one was even a blessing to me when I reread it today. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5146. Thanks for sharing, I really like the intro: Sadness and joy
    are hard to hold
    at the same time

    I did a study on devastation after celebrations, it was the summer when Jim died, it was perfect timing, God’s timing.

    Jenn and I “celebrated” her 16th b’day, when we knew it was to be Jim and Jenn, to celebrate their big birthdays together, but it wasn’t to be.

    Reply

    • Karen, I really can’t take credit for that first stanza since that is pretty much what my friend Gail said to me. And the last stanza is from scripture. But it did pretty much sum up the struggle to mourn and celebrate at the same time, which I guess is part of this thing we call life. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thank you. The refrain was actually added a day after I originally wrote and scheduled this, so I’m glad it turned out to be a good addition. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5152. I absolutely adore the story of Ruth the Moabitess – a foreigner, a forbidden outsider who found her way into the family tree of the Saviour. God does amazing things His way, not ours.

    Reply

    • I know the story, but am excited about studying it in depth over the next 5 weeks. It is amazing how God works in ways we would never plan or suspect. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5158. I like your poem. At times like these I have a tendency to try too hard to understand everything…to make sense out of it all. At times the feelings vary so much that I have felt like I was standing on the pendulum of a clock the way kids sometimes stand on a tire swing. Try to remember that the Lord is holding you. I am praying. This is hard stuff.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  5159. Oh Linda .. love and hugs to you and yours. Praying for you now, for His presence to be with you in mighty ways, to comfort and give peace . ..to hold you in your grief.

    Reply

  5161. Linda, I am so sorry to hear about your sister. I can’t imagine how you must feel. 🙁

    Praying that you and your loved ones that the Lord will comfort you in that way that only He can do..

    Theresa

    Reply

  5162. I am forgiven, yet I suffer natural consequences fir sins I have committed oe years. Sometimes God has seen fit to ignore them, orto make them less severe. Nevertheless I suffer for them. But we also need to head IJohn 1:9, confess our sin and accept His spiritual cleansing. Oh, and where would I be without it! I shudder to think of it.

    Reply

  5165. Wow, Linda, not one, but 3 .. all working together, blessing us and glorifying Jesus! Yay! God bless you .. your pen’s on fire. 🙂

    Reply

  5166. I really like this form of poetry. You did an excellent joy telling the whole story in so few words. I wish I could write one of these! ~ God Bless ~

    Reply

  5169. First – you’ve written this really well to the form requirements.
    Second – the subject matter; your relationship with your Saviour [mine too :-)] is so obviously vital in making you who you are. The love you have for him infuses every word here.

    Reply

  5171. What a blessing this is .. .you put us there with you and Him! God bless you as you keep writing and sharing His story!

    Reply

  5172. smiles…there is such reassurance in such a savior that will find us in our hour of need and bring peace back to our souls…nicely done to form as well ma’am…smiles.

    Reply

  5179. this is really nice. You know, I thought I knew of most of the short forms, but have to admit to not knowing this one. Very neat, will most certainly add the form to my collection for future poeticizing. Thanks

    Reply

  5180. Thanks for sharing the information about the form– I’ve never heard of an Elfje before, but will definitely try my hand at writing one now. Lovely, passionate poem 🙂

    Reply

  5185. Heads up…while likes and regular comments are OK you aren’t notified anymore of comments to replies within a thread. WordPress is messing with us again.

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  5187. Just perfect, Linda! Thank you for sharing it and doing this journey of a poem a day for Lent. God bless you .. . and I’m off to find out about this form! It’s short . ..I like short!

    Reply

    • Deb, You would be great at writing elfjes! They are so much fun. 🙂 And I think the occasional short poem is what is going to make 40 poems for Lent possible, plus God’s help, of course. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5189. I think you have created an Elfje psalm.
    Thank you for your ‘ping’
    May we all, whatever our beliefs – rejoice in love and peace.

    Reply

  5190. Thanks for your visit – I am sure there are many poetic forms to discover.
    May we all continue to find peace in the different paths that sometimes join and intersect.
    Thanks too for letting me know where you found me 🙂
    I hope you enjoy some of the short forms that you found on my blog.
    Cheers.

    Reply

  5191. This is beautiful. It reminds me of this hymn:

    “Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
    Take my moments and my days; let them flow in ceaseless praise.
    Take my hands, and let them move at the impulse of Thy love.
    Take my feet, and let them be swift and beautiful for Thee.

    Take my voice, and let me sing always, only, for my King.
    Take my lips, and let them be filled with messages from Thee.
    Take my silver and my gold; not a mite would I withhold.
    Take my intellect, and use every power as Thou shalt choose.

    Take my will, and make it Thine; it shall be no longer mine.
    Take my heart, it is Thine own; it shall be Thy royal throne.
    Take my love, my Lord, I pour at Thy feet its treasure store.
    Take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for Thee.”

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  5205. That is one of my favorite Bible verses! I love the poem, too. I do not know very much about the names of different types of poems, such as triolets, haiku, and what they mean. I can see there is a pattern, though, and I like reading this poem. It makes me feel happy, and young.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, I’ve been learning about different poetry forms at dVerse Poets Pub blog. They post lessons on Thursdays. I really like this triolet form because it seems well suited to Christian poetry. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, We studied the Philippians passage in Bible Study Fellowship this week so it was a perfect inspiration. After reading the lesson I awoke in the middle of the night with the idea for this poem in my head, so I wrote it down – in the dark because I didn’t want to turn the light on – and was surprised how readable it was. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5207. Reblogged this on The Quiet Pen and commented:
    I hope you enjoyed this beautifully-written piece!
    I’m in the middle of a dark tunnel of school responsibilities, but there is a light at the end, it is NOT an oncoming train, and it heralds some changes for this blog! Plus some great new reviews.

    Reply

    • Maria, Thanks for the kind compliment. I really like the pantoum form for Christian poetry and it is nice that it can be anywhere from 3 stanzas to as many as a poet can write. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Theresa, Thank you. This was a challenging poem to write, both from the standpoint of the sestina form and the topic – to get from the feelings of being underserving to the knowledge that He loves us anyway. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5227. thank goodness for grace you know…all undeseriving we come before the throne for it…gotta love the heart willing to love hte undeserving…smiles…nicely done to form too…

    Reply

  5228. Beautifully expressed, Linda. We are only ‘deserving’ because of Jesus’ gift of mercy! Your poem is a wonderful meditation for lent.

    Reply

  5230. This is a really moving poem. I kept forgetting to read it like a poem, though, because the message tugged so strongly at my heart. I had never paused and thought about what it might be like if I were dying on a cross beside a man who claimed to be the Messiah, but also on a cross as well. Would I believe Him?

    I think I would have believed Him with the same imperfect faith that I have today. I would have asked Jesus to remember me just like he did…just like I do now each day of my life.

    I am so glad you posted this profound poem.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, I think about what it would have been like often, and can only hope I would have believed. As mentioned in my reply to Deb’s comment, this poem was inspired by the song Thief by Third Day. Here is a live version of it. This song always makes me cry, especially where Mac sings, “they raised Him up next to me.” I’m glad you were blessed by this. Peace, Linda

      [youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RwPqCPMyypI]

      Reply

    • Deb, I had to re-read this to see what you meant. It had seemed hopeful when I wrote it, but sureness didn’t occur to me. But I see what you mean. 🙂 I wish I had been that sure when I felt like I was in exile years ago, but thankfully He was sure. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5237. There is another choice:

    Where everything is not relative
    Where there are choices
    Choices we make that matter because we matter to each other
    and the here-and-now are the kingdom
    and then it all matters — making obscene the hopes for more
    and making horrible the imagining that we alone are safe and snug
    with our god, our own perfect beliefs.

    And never on some days, but on all days.

    Reply

  5240. Wow Linda . ..this is going to be good, this special time of writing a poem offering each day. Thank you for this one . ..and God bless you!

    Reply

  5242. What a beautiful thing to do, Linda . .and I know He will help you! God bless you as you share Him day by day. I’m looking forward to it!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m actually thinking some good form poetry is in order – maybe a few triolets, another ghazal, and I might finally try writing a sestina. 🙂 I can’t wait to see what the Lord leads me to write. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5243. These are so well done. They give my heart a lift and I really can’t pick a favorite. They are just so special. I am going to be keeping them some place special.

    Reply

  5246. Linda . .you had me laughing at some of the things the speaker was having you do. I can just see your face! haha! I might’ve gotten stressed out trying to do what he was asking me to do. 🙂 Thank you and God bless you for sharing how you do deal with stress . .those things I can do, with Him!

    Reply

  5248. i rather like he second one actually…i like the pace on the cross, trace on the cross…they play well together…i am glad you tried the form again as well as i thinkit is made for spiritual themes….

    Reply

  5249. Honestly…I think both are fantastic…commentators above have named the differences I noted as well…and not willing to play favorites 😉 A form a enjoy playing with too…which is rather odd! 😀

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  5250. Thanks for sharing, Linda

    I like em!

    The first one has a more personal feel to it. Makes me feel special and valued, that He took my place upon the cross.

    The second one makes me want to add music and sing my worship to God. 🙂

    I choose both! 🙂 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, 🙂 What a nice comment! Did you read Deb’s comment first? Because she said the same thing about the first one seeming more personal. The first was what came from my heart without thinking about strict form. I would love to hear the music you would put the second one to. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Most welcome, Linda,

        I smiled when I read the comment from Deb after mine went through 🙂

        One of these days when life settles down … 😉

        Blessings
        ann

  5251. Oh Linda . . do I have to pick a favorite version? haha! There was something really special about the first one, that I loved . ..and I can’t put my finger on it. Then the second one, more pared down . .. well, I loved that too. I think the first one felt more personal to me, drew me in that way. Thank you for sharing your poems with us! So blessed by this one! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are so sweet. 🙂 Of course you don’t have to pick a favorite, but I appreciate the input that the first seems more personal. It was really based on what I was feeling and thinking. The second was based on trying to fit a set structure, which I think is harder to do and keep the underlying feeling. Thanks for your thoughts and encouragement. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • I LOVED this prompt! The ghazal is a terrific form to work with. 🙂 I like that you saw the underlying happiness and joy in this poem, even though it isn’t so in all parts. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5261. What an inspiring poem – and it’s wonderful that you used your name “Linda Lee” in the envoy to define the rhymes behind the refrain “my Beautiful”. I also love the dual reference of that refrain, that and the musicality of the rhyme-refrain makes for a wonderful lilt to your ghazal,

    Reply

    • Samuel, Thank you for your kind and encouraging critique of my ghazal. This was truly one of the most fun forms I’ve done, a close second behind the triolet that is my favorite. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5263. This truly is lovely. You have a really great choice of words and one that I probably haven’t heard since I was a little girl (nary). The whole poem reminds me a little of some beautiful garden verses. It is a very special poem.

    Reply

    • Mary, Normally I wouldn’t do that, but it’s part of the Ghazal form. I was just going to use Linda, but there aren’t very many good words that rhyme with Linda. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5265. linda lee…smiles…calls you by name…in his strong and lovely voice…this is beautiful linda…i like too how you point out how ours eyes fall on us occassionally as well and miss out…

    Reply

  5266. Thank you for compassionately sharing Jesus like you do, Linda. I honestly don’t think you can do otherwise . ..it’s just a part of who you are and what you do, because you are His. God bless you!

    Reply

  5271. Beautiful song of praise, LInda. What a wonderful way of meditating, really, to write your own poem based on what you read in prayer time. I always enjoy your work.

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks. I think this post needs a little work, but it is a good start. Though sometimes I think it is best to leave the scientific arguments regarding God to the Patrick Glynn’s of the world. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • I’ll get up if it isn’t cold, but I really hate to be cold. But I think I am going to put a notebook and pen by my bed so I can jot down a few lines the next time this happens. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5281. Thanks for sharing, Linda

    I have had many a blog post go off “in search of warmer climes” as I tell myself I will remember in the light of day. Deception. It never works!

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • So true! Somehow, though, non-poetry posts stick in my head until I write them down. They are sometimes relentless in pursuit of being written. But poems are different for me. They are so easily lost. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Tony, I had no idea I would get this kind of response from others who have lost poems. I wrote this one in about 10 minutes after reading the dVerse post. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5286. How I know this feeling! It’s been happening to me for weeks and it’s soooo frustrating when I can’t follow through on my thoughts. Clearly expressed. Great job.

    Reply

    • Deb, You do realize you were my inspiration to start writing poetry in the first place, don’t you? So God bless you for your inspiration and encouragement. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5290. I know exactly what you mean!!! Sigh. I sometimes write poetry in my mind as I am walking the track at the YMCA. They are the ‘best’ poems, and I know I will remember them until I get home. But no, the poems disappear before I can write them down. Perhaps, as you said, they go to warmer climes too; and I guess i won’t blame them. Sigh.

    Reply

    • Mary, I carry a notebook in my purse so I can jot down poems and blog post ideas that come to mind while I’m out and about. I should try the notebook on the nightstand method and maybe fewer would be lost. I’m actually heading down to Florida next week. Maybe I’ll look around and see if I can find our poems that have headed south. 😉
      Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5292. Oh! I know this feeling. One time, I laid there until midnight with Beethoven swirling in my head and I finally threw a blanket around me, stumbled out of bed, put my headphones on and wrote my “Ivory at Midnight” poem. Ever since then, if I feel a stanza forming I get up and write 🙂 Great job. It’s such a loss to loose a poem!

    Reply

    • What a great story. I’ll have to come check out your “Ivory at Midnight” poem. (I assume it’s on your blog). There have been times when I’ve gotten out of bed so as to not lose the poem, but that is more likely to happen in the spring or summer. I should keep an easy to grab blanket on hand so I can throw it around me and go write those poems down. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5293. Yes, so very true, we have to prioritize the creative process yet there are always the practical considerations. Sometimes the cold, sometimes work, sometimes other obstacles, and yet I too have wondered if the energy of the poem transfers elsewhere. Thanks so much for joining us!

    Reply

    • Thanks for the great prompt! I can’t believe the number of replies I’ve gotten to this poem written in about 10 minutes. Perhaps I should remember that’s all the longer I’d have to endure the cold to get those late night ideas written down in draft form. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5294. You have touched on a common experience here–the swirling words, the reluctance to leave the comfort of a blanket–perfectly rendered.

    Reply

  5296. ha…this happens often…i have learned to keep a notebook ont he bed side…and i dont even need a light…i just scribble it out and try and decypher the thought in the morning….smiles…there is no way i will remember it in the morning

    Reply

  5298. Hi Linda.

    Just want to stop by to say hello and am much happy and please to see that you are still yet holding on to God’s unchanging hands.

    God bless my sister.

    Debra

    Reply

  5300. I think this is the first time I have seen this. It was just what I needed to see at the time. I was asleep, and had a troubling dream about one of my troubles, so I decided to read some blogs. I had intended to read some from your blog yesterday, but got distracted. Then when I woke up I found a link to this post in my dashboard.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  5302. Life is about finding meaning and purpose and we all have our own ways of doing it. For some it is God and for some it is not – what matters is the path to Self.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by. For the Christian, the path is not one to Self but to God and away from self (and it’s selfishness). The apostle Paul wrote, “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV). Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5304. So true that ‘winter’ does not last forever, whether one is thinking literally or figuratively. There is always light that follows.And a wonderful rebirth! I enjoyed your poem.

    Reply

  5305. winter does not last forever, thank goodness you know…seasons remind us of truthes in life…the darkness never last, each day vanquished by the light….and the winter, she is short lived as well…there is hope…smiles…

    Reply

  5307. Thank you, Linda, for believing and encouraging us to too! God bless you!
    p.s. This is the first time I’d heard that song .. .wonderfully good! thanks for ministering to us with music the way He has you do!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad you liked the song. It’s one of my favorite MercyMe songs from their The Generous Mr. Lovewell album. I love the music and the lyrics. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks. I’m glad you liked it. It’s just one of those that came to me in the morning during prayer time and I had to type it up before I could move on. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thank you. I really appreciate the encouragement. I just write what God lays on my heart. If I am an exceptional writer and poet it is because He is an exceptional God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5314. Wow Linda . ..I just didn’t expect this. It’s so powerful and it gives me a glimpse of what He must feel, reaching out to us. Also . ..just a bit ago I read a heartbreaking letter from a friend about some of what has been going on with one of her sons. This just fits that situation so well. Thank you for writing what He asks you to. God bless you!

    Reply

  5319. smiles…there is a beautiful love in this…makes me think of a psalm as well….thank goodness for the grace in that last stanza as well…i like the honesty in this…

    Reply

  5327. I remember reading about the four beasts of Revelation 4. They had many eyes before, within and behind. They could really see from many perspectives. They ceased not to say,”Holy, holy, holy Lord God Almighty, which was and is and is to come.” Could that be because they see things as they really are? I think so.

    Reply

    • Thank for stopping by and leaving such a thoughtful comment. Yes, I do believe all those around the throne see things as they really are. My hope is that one day I will see that clearly. I love the song they sing and sometimes when I’m having trouble sleeping I repeat it over and over in my head and am comforted by the reminder that He is holy, holy, holy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5329. Linda
    I am so sorry someone would take the time to plant such seeds of bitterness
    I think any of of “bloggers” who have written for awhile can tell stories of comments received
    Yes those hurt and bother us! We are human and when you share your heart it can be broken
    But, when we dedicate our stories and our writings for God’s Glory, like you
    then the Story needs to be told and retold
    I have found comfort in Psalm 62:5 – My soul waits silently for God – My expectation is from Him
    Don’t take those comments to heart – rest your heart in the Lord
    God Bless
    susie

    Reply

    • Susie, It would be easier if the comment was simply a comment on my blog, but it was actually from someone close to me but who wants nothing to do with God. Thank you for the Psalm – it does provide comfort. I actually read 4 Psalms right before bed last night and I always find comfort there. Thank you for your encouragement. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5330. As we grow we are taught to be ashamed of our errors (You should be ashamed of yourself!), then we decide to rebel and become almost totally shameless, then – one way or another – we have to face the consequences of who we’ve become and what we’ve done.

    Reply

  5331. Dear Linda -whose-strength-is-in-the-Lord,

    I like to hear His story, and maybe I don’t tell it as often as I should …

    Keep telling.

    My prayer is that those who need to hear/read, will always come here knowing His truth dwells here.

    Sidebar: The one thing I found most irritating during my wilderness experience was the love of God. I couldn’t wrap my head around many things, but that was particularly hard to swallow. When I allowed Him to draw me back to Himself, I found a peace I no longer want to live without. I continue to pray that those who ‘kick against the pricks’ would one day wake up to the beautiful Love that He is!.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  5332. I never get bored of the truth about Jesus. Please keep on telling the story so that we may win one more soul to Christ.. I cry at the thought of who Christ is every day i think of HIM and HIS glory. May the Lord sustain you as you continue telling the story.

    Reply

  5334. I’m so glad you love to tell the story of Jesus . . .because I love to hear it over and over again, and NEED to hear it over and over again. Thank you and God bless you, dear friend!

    Reply

    • Thank you. It is a message many miss and instead go through life weighed down by guilt and shame. I’m thankful that God has taught me of His mercy and grace. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5337. What a wonderful poem that God brought to you, as you reflect on Chpt. 7. The book sounds good . .I really like what Max Lucado writes! God bless you, Linda, and thank you for helping us with growing up pains!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve always loved Max Lucado’s writing. I think it is because he is so real. He writes about his struggles as an imperfect human being and God’s answer of grace and love. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5338. deeply spiritual….i guess this talks to me about how childhood,and the experimentation we all go through when we start to get up- well, rightly or wrongly, you have to go through it…. I’m the same as Mary, i regret nothing, but would I do some of it again…NO!…these questions you raise capture perfectly the dialogue that ‘growing up’presents. Good work!

    Reply

    • Thanks. I agree that we have to all go through things to eventually grow up. I do have a few things in my life that I regret, but I know my experiences and my response to them has made me who I am, and I wouldn’t change that for anything. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5339. Ha, I doubt there is an adult alive who did not sow some wild oats as a young person…..I did…actually I don’t regret them (smiles); but would I repeat them today? Nope! But sometimes the wild oat memories are good….in their own way. (Just my opinion)

    Reply

  5340. it is true how guilt will weigh on us and make us edgy and react in ways we would not otherwise…haha…i have a few coming clean stories with my parents as well…smiles.

    Reply

  5341. Thank you for sharing, Linda
    It’s amazing what can be accomplished when we allow Him to work His purpose in our lives.
    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  5342. This was a new one for me! Thank you, Linda .. .I did like it and the truth behind it, about His love. God bless you as you let Him flow from you to others!

    Reply

  5343. I am so glad that the Lord’s timing is always perfect. What each of us is experiencing at any given time is always perfectly timed by Him. The song is so beautiful, too. I was reminded of the song of Solomon and how it depicts that we are His adored bride. I needed to be reminded of that. His timing directed me this direction today to see what you have been writing and I was blessed.

    Reply

    • Theresa, And I needed to hear this today: “What each of us is experiencing at any given time is always perfectly timed by Him.” Thanks for the reminder. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5346. I love this song and have sent it to friends too, Linda. It’s so powerful. And so is your testimony of God’s perfect timing and how He knows you! Thanks for sharing and God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, Perhaps someday God will know I’m ready to obey on the first nudge, but until then I trust He will nudge as needed. 🙂 He’s awesome that way! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5349. life is a mysterious path, it is a strange thing to be explicitly transparent, known, as we are, somehow. for me our ecological context is an act of grace , trust, responsibility, journey.

    Reply

  5350. Yes, indeed…a beautiful testament to faith. Indeed, if we were judged totally by the law, we would all be condemned.

    Reply

  5351. I think it is only when we get there that we will truly be able to grasp the enormity of what God has done for us and how truly unconditional His love is. We have no idea.
    Great post, Linda!

    Reply

  5354. ha..i wouldn’t even try to tell him that i think i deserved mercy cause i know i don’t…it’s all about grace..and about him being for us…and i’m so thankful

    Reply

    • Claudia, I’m sure I wouldn’t either. For me this poem also illustrated the progression of my faith, from the time when I used to think I was justified in my sins to now when I know I must rely on grace. 🙂 I am thankful for grace as well. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5355. even for those forgiven i can not imagine this inspection being all that comfortable when you think of all the little things….thank goodness for grace….

    Reply

  5356. I wonder if we would ever know what love is, without God’s great love for us. Thanks for such a great post to make us think today Linda, and open our hearts to Love more. God bless you!

    Reply

  5357. I believe I agree with you. Children can be very cruel, and it seems to come naturally to them. We are born very self-centered, loving only ourselves, and pretty much hating everything that gets in the way of that self-centeredness.

    Reply

    • Jeff, I considered including a paragraph about how selfish children can be and how in daycares and pre-schools they must be taught to share and not fight. I decided not to add it, but I’m glad you pointed it out in your comment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5358. Beautiful post and gifts to give to Him, Linda! YOU are a gift . .thank you for inspiring us to worship Him and live for Him too. God bless you!

    Reply

  5359. Thank you for your gift of writing. A good word and amazing application. May your writing and your life bless many as you continue to surrender it to Jesus. Blessings to you.

    Reply

  5361. Nice acrostic and I agree that eternal life (better translated as life of the ages) begins here and now. It’s a shame so many people seem to believe otherwise.

    Reply

  5363. This was so well written, Linda! Wow! It played out like a movie in my mind. And when you wrote .. .the list goes on and on and on. . ..that really got to me! Thank you for showing us what all He’s done for us and will yet do! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, As I started writing this in my mind I had a visual as well, like a movie. It is so exciting that my visual came through in the words. 🙂 God is so awesome like that, to show us in such real terms what His love is all about. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • My intent was not to ask those questions expecting you to answer them for me. They are simply there for reflection by the reader. I appreciate you stopping by for the poetry. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5367. …Today, it’s 7:42 am – Sunday here in Philippines…and i’m blessed to read you here… for your offering will be a bread for my soul my friend…very beautiful…thank you…smiles…

    Reply

  5369. I like this poem and your thoughts very much….thinking of eternal life not as something of the future but something of right now. Peace to you!

    Reply

    • Thanks. I kind of felt like I was cheating to use an old post for your dVerse prompt today, but I think this poem fits the bill so well that it’s okay. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5371. I have been a born again Christian for untold years, yet there is not a single day that I don’t fail miserably in some area. To think that He knew this when He took me on. That is Love. Beautiful poem.

    Reply

  5373. This is so beautiful, Linda . .thank you! I’m going to be singing it now too. Little Aub is listening as well. She’d just been singing her own made up praise song. We are blessed! God bless you and revive you daily, with His word.

    Reply

    • Deb, Anything by Jeremy Camp is beautiful! I’m looking forward to listening to more music this year because I got speakers that plug into my computer at work so I can play my iPod while I work. His Word in song will revive me daily. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5374. Thanks for sharing, Linda

    “165 Great peace have those who love Your law,
    And nothing causes them to stumble.”

    This verse was first quoted to me about 20 years ago. If I recall correctly, they were spoken by a gentleman as an explanation of why he did not get defensive when his faith was questioned and his belief ridiculed. Oh that I would remember this when the darts come!

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, As I stood in the shower this morning, just minutes after this post was scheduled to go live, this song came on my iPod, which was on shuffle of my Christian playlist. I think God wanted me to remember that great peace comes from delighting in His Word. He is the only source of true peace in any circumstances. Happy New Year, Linda

      Reply

  5376. Thank you so much for the blessing of this Good News. What a great way to go into the New Year, knowing He has done it all for us, so we can live thankful lives! God bless you and yours!

    Reply

  5377. How wonderful for you to see that so many are truly interested in forgiveness . . .and then write about that! Great poem and truth for us , Linda . .thank you and God bless you!
    p.s. have you heard the song ‘Forgiveness’ by Matthew West?

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m still working (mostly in my head) on a whole book on forgiveness. One day God will pull it all together for me. 🙂 I haven’t heard that song, but am going to go find it on YouTube. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5378. smiles….forgiveness gives us and them freedom…justice is gods to determine and we have to be content in maybe never seeing it….smiles….nice…happy new year…

    Reply

  5380. being able to forgive and let go is something wonderful…a friend once said that if we’re not forgive, we harm ourselves most with it cause we get better…and i think that’s so true… happy new year to you linda

    Reply

    • Deb, By God’s grace I will succeed in this goal and He will get the glory! 🙂 My other goal is to spend more time reading blogs and encouraging others. Peace and a blessed New Year, Linda

      Reply

  5384. A really beautiful encouragement, Linda . ..thank you. 🙂 It’s good to look back and see where we were and where He keeps leading us to . .. closer to Himself! God bless you and yours!

    Reply

  5385. Thank you for helping us remember Joseph and his role in the Christmas story! Beautiful song . .. hadn’t heard it before! God bless you and Merry Christmas, Linda!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love when a contemporary Christian artist comes out with a new Christmas song that is really good, though you really can’t beat the old classics. I’m glad you liked this one. Peace and a Joyous New Year, Linda

      Reply

  5387. I love this poem. This petition really spoke to me:

    “Guide us, O Lord, to use our creative power
    for good and not for evil
    that the whole earth would glorify You in praise”

    I am an imaginative/creative person. That can be a good thing and a bad thing. When I am not yielded my imagination is ruled by vanity and fear which makes me miserable. I am praying this portion of your poem at this moment. Thank you for sharing this post.

    Love,
    Theresa

    Reply

  5388. Thank you for sharing your favorite rendition! 🙂 Love it too! And glad that there were some Christmas songs included after all! Yay! God bless you and a very Merry Christmas to you and yours!

    Reply

    • Deb, Actually, my favorite version of O Come O Come Emmanuel is an instrumental version by Casting Crowns, but this Jeremy Camp version is new this year and I love it, too. And I posted the Casting Crowns version last year here. I’m glad you enjoyed this one. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5390. Thank you, Linda. You always write things that we might be thinking , but can’t express so well. God bless you and thank you for praying that more and more will come to know His great love for them.

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks once again for your encouragement that what I write is meaningful. Sometimes it is hard to write, and I second guess whether I should post, and it seems in those instances you always seem to come along and say something that confirms I was right to post. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5397. Thank you for doing another Advent acrostic! 🙂 I’m so encouraged that people are looking it up and interested! God bless you as you write from the heart!

    Reply

    • Deb, It is encouraging that people are looking for information on Advent. That original poem has had over 570 page views! I just love Advent and looking forward to Christmas. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5400. Really well done, Linda .. thank you for showing us that about Santa and how that is the way most religions work too. But for Jesus. God bless you as you celebrate His being with you!

    Reply

  5401. That really was a great take away, Linda! Thank you for sharing it with us too. He has to keep reminding me of that, wherever differences pop up, that He will set all things right one day, clear up all the questions. . .to just keep the main thing (HIM) the main thing. God bless you!

    Reply

  5402. I loved the part about giving out of the grace we have been given in Christ. Really beautiful devotion, Linda, and a blessing to us! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, Considering how bad I was feeling when I first wrote this, it is a great example of how His grace is sufficient. I’m glad it was a blessing to you. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5404. What a beautiful post, Linda. I love how you started out with the not so accurate reports and then showed us the reliability of His word. 🙂 God bless you and the good true news you share!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you for your encouragement, as always! 🙂 I’m hoping to post more this month. The month of November was spent not feeling well and not having energy to do much towards blogging, but now I’m feeling better and have several new posts swirling around in my head. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5405. Nov. 27 2012 – I agree – they are wonderful. However, Costco is not carrying them this year. Did you find somewhere else? I am searching online now to buy a few big bags. They are great for Christmas, Valentines Day, Easter, etc…. HELP!

    Reply

  5406. Well, love the song! 🙂 And thank you for the encouragement to our veterans and to all of us who run the race. God bless you as you never give up until your done either!

    Reply

    • Deb, I knew you would like this song. I am looking forward to being able to see Third Day perform this in concert next year. Portland isn’t on their spring tour, but I am hopeful that they will be here in the fall. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5408. “in a world already too broken”. Thank you, Linda, for your words today, that inspire and encourage us to chose ours carefully! God bless you!

    Reply

  5411. Linda,
    I haven’t been reading much and writing none lately, school has been a heavy load, but I couldn’t help but read this when I saw the title and I am really glad I did. You hit the nail directly on the head with this one, and said what I, and probably many others long to say. I am sooooo tired of hearing people at work discuss politics at work, and although I seldom make it to Facebook anymore, I get sick of reading only politics related posts. I realize this election, like every one before it was a very important one, but can we please just move on now? Can we remove all the campaign signs, get past the post election talk and just get back to what is really important, the business of living life. Let’s savor the next 3 years until this cycle begins again and once again folks begin to see one another not as people, souls, or children of God but rather only in shades of red or blue.
    Thank you Linda for saying what many of us probably feel, I know I do. God bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, Thanks for the encouragement. A couple of months ago I was wishing for a “Hide Political Posts” button on Facebook, but there wasn’t one. I think I finally just couldn’t take it anymore. I hope now we can all move forward with what is important. I hope school is going well for you. I miss your stories, though I don’t seem to find as much time to read blogs as I would like anymore anyway. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5414. Linda,
    I could not agree with you more! Each day I post a random thought as a status update…Today this was my update:

    April’s Random Thought…(I don’t usually speak on political issues but…..okay, the people have spoken. Our leadership has been chosen. Instead of bashing and hating, we need to pray for our leadership, know that we serve a sovereign God and He is in control of ALL things. Here is what a friend shared on his status regarding this very issue: “I am very saddened this morning by the hatred coming from the fingertips of people I know and respect. Please calm down people – you are angry because you put your faith in man. Man will always disappoint. Put your faith in God and ………. breathe……………………………” I have to agree with him. I see people professing they are Christian, posting scriptures and some very good things about living a Christian life but then I see the same people posting bashing and hate status updates-sad. Instead of bashing and posting such post, fall to your knees and pray for our leadership and as Rodney said put your faith in God. just sayin’

    The best thing we can do is pray! The ugliness and bitterness only fuels a fire that does not need to be burning. If a person is going to start a fire let it be the fire of the Holy Spirit of love and encouragement.

    Blessings to you today!
    April

    Reply

    • April, I love your status update! Thanks for sharing it here. It is true that man will always disappoint and so we must put our trust in Jesus, our one true King and pray for the men and women who are in positions of power and great responsibility. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5416. Thank you so much for the challenge and the honesty in this, Linda. A missionary family that I had adopted at church many years ago, retired and moved back to CA. They often told me that it was easier to witness to the people in those outer areas than it was to people here. Maybe because we are so “comfortable”? God bless you as you continue to be available to Jesus.

    Reply

    • Deb, It is reassuring to hear that even “real” missionaries struggle with witnessing to friends and family here in the states. Part of me felt like this post shouldn’t just ask the question, but should answer it as well. But then I realized I’m not certain of the answer. I think comfortableness may well be part of it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5417. Thank you, Linda, for writing more about abortion. What you have said is all true and compassionate for both the mother and the unborn child. It just makes me cry and cry out to Him for mercy. God bless you and what He calls you to do.

    Reply

  5419. I appreciate what you wrote, Linda–my opinion is that, if God grants people free will/choice, I have to do the same. By the way, I also appreciated your response to a certain reader who leaves her “posts” in other folks “comment” boxes–thank you! God bless you abundantly–love, Caddo

    Reply

  5420. HI JUST SITTING HERE THIS RAINLY MORNDAY…MY MORNDAY HI…..DOT..BLESSING…………………………………………..Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;”
    Philippians 4:6

    Debora could be very stressed: she’s a wife, mother, occupational therapist, writing instructor, piano teacher, speaker, author and (deep intake of breath) tennis enthusiast.

    How does Debora handle a stress-filled life like that?

    Well, she doesn’t!!! She gives it all to God!

    Friend, the Bible says not to worry or be anxious, but to pray…

    Tell God about your needs and thank Him.

    And God’s peace will guard your heart and mind as you live in Christ.

    Debora’s acronym will help you remember:

    It’s p-e-a-c-e… placing each aggravation at Christ’s feet… expectantly!

    Yes, real peace is yours when you intentionally give it to god in prayer.

    Give each annoyance, dilemma, and burden to God, one by one, and minute by minute.

    Reply

    • Dot, I appreciate you stopping by and reading my blog. However, I would prefer that if you choose to comment that your comments be on the topic of the post. Your random comments – while true and Biblical – should be posted on your own blog not in comments on other blogs. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5424. Morning Linda
    We touch others lives by being honest with our story and not telling others what to do in their life .. You witnessed by telling your personal story
    Thank you for your honesty.
    God Bless
    susie

    Reply

  5426. This gave me goosebumps and made me cry. A double whammy of a post. Thank you, Linda, for taking the time to write about it so thoughtfully and carefully, in the light of His love. God bless you and all those whose lives are touched by Jesus in you.

    Reply

  5427. Thank you for sharing your beautiful and heart tugging Psalm with us. God bless you as you cry out to Him, and He answers with the peace and comfort you and yours need. love and prayers.

    Reply

    • Deb, I love the honesty of the Psalmists in their many complaints and praises. I only hope I am able to capture the same honesty in my own psalms. It can be so hard when those close to you are suffering – it seems that cancer is all around me at times and I struggle to understand why. But I know God is good and faithful. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5429. This is an interesting thought. We do not have the same party split here so would not really consider the way that people try to make Jesus a liberal or democrat. i think we have gone the complete opposite direction and rejected Jesus altogether.

    Thanks for this post. It’s food for thought.! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I agree that a reminder of who we truly serve is needed. And when we remember that perhaps we will approach politics with a little more civility. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5433. welcome back….smiles…we all need to take those breaks when we need them…to rejuvenate and refresh….i love the encouragement your verse gives…to know and be known is one of our greatest desires…and to know he knows us and still loves us regardless….what a reassurance…

    Reply

  5434. hi”’friends is a new day that the lord has give as’praise his name,,,,DOT,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,THE WAY!

    John 14:5-6

    Thomas said to Him, Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way? Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

    Reply

  5440. I’ve been reading a lot lately about how we need to surrender our rights to ourselves to the Lord. Thanks for the reminder. And you can’t rock too hard for me! 🙂

    Reply

  5441. Pride has also kept me from seeing the truth about myself many times. It is the truth that sets me free. It’s pride that keeps me trapped in my insanity…. or sin if you prefer.

    Reply

  5444. Amen Linda
    Thanks for a great post
    Pride turns into anger, bitterness, resentment
    But it all starts with Pride and Me – Me – Me
    God Bless
    susie

    Reply

  5445. Thank you for helping me give thanks for all the little things and big things today! God bless you as you live with an always grateful heart!

    Reply

  5446. Thank you, Linda, for a post that really ministers to us at a time like this. Smiling at your hard rock warning. . .it makes me want to listen all the more. haha!
    God bless you as you continue to be in His Presence, and sharing what He shares with you.

    Reply

    • Deb, You crack me up – and I’m glad you liked this post. I worried a little about posting it, but decided that you can’t go wrong with a post about trusting God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5450. Linda , thank you for sharing this “finding Jesus” moment! I love how it’s all about Him. God bless you as you keep looking for Him and at Him and help us to as well!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve been so busy lately that I haven’t been posting as much, but I realized this morning that a post doesn’t have to be long to point people to Jesus. 🙂 And that’s what it’s all about! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5456. Although many times, it’s easier to think that things would be easier if one doesn’t exist, it’s probably better to be alive and be able to act, a chance to do something rather than simply stopping and not existing. It’s actually worse on those we leave behind, not better. Took a while for me to learn this too. Thank you for sharing this personal and felt piece.

    Reply

  5457. This is extra precious to me, having been there twice. So thankful that He kept you, LInda . ..so, so thankful. I didn’t know Him at the time, but He knew me, like He knew you and refused to let that lie continue growing.
    love and hugs and thanks . . .and God bless you as you minister to us!

    Reply

    • Deb, As I wrote this I was thinking it would be a good poem to share at Broken Believers. There are many who need to know that the thought that the world would be better without them is a lie. I’m so thankful that He saved you from that lie and that now you know how special and important you are. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5459. oy…glad you did not succumb to the madness…i have been there…its a rough place when you get to that point…luckily there are some saved from that place….

    Reply

  5460. Really want to thank you for sharing something so personal. Although, I’ve never gone to such lengths, I have to say my life’s not all it could be right now, and I take a lot of medicines, some of which, easily could do me in. I have so many requirements that need to be met, well, probably not as bad as the single line here makes it sound, but there is definitely some leeway necessary with those around me, and although I understand they care, they snap out of frustration and being in a bad place, all minor things that are not positive, just makes you feel as if it’s piling on, and yeah, that feeling of I’d be better off, they’d be better off without me and the burdens I create around, definitely appear. But thankfully I’ve never even thought to act on such thoughts, and glad you wrote this piece, and glad the attempt didn’t work out as intended. I love the part about the angel, as I also have felt presences to help on some of the worst days, the ones were you are tempted to take an extra pill or two, simply because one just isn’t getting the job done, and the presence calms you somehow, oftentimes guiding you to sleep, where when you awake, miraculously the pain is not as it was.

    Again, reading this reply, makes my situation sound terrible, it’s not ideal, but I am functional, just with asterisks. Just thought your heartfelt share deserved a proper heartfelt one in return. Thanks again, so much for sharing here.

    Reply

    • I do appreciate the heartfelt comment. This was a hard poem to write, and there are many things left out, but I’m glad that it was a source of encouragement to you. That is what it was intended to be. When medically and emotionally we are not well, it is easy to think that those around us would be better of if we weren’t there. In retrospect, though, I know that my son (who was only 1 year old at the time) would not have been better off without me to encourage and teach him. I pray that God will continue to encamp His angels about you and those you love to help you through the struggles of this life. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5461. Frightening, Linda. Glad that you found out before it was too late. Life IS precious. No one truly is better off if someone in their life is dead; but, of course, you know that now.

    Reply

  5465. Linda…you have delivered the Word through your words in one of the most trickiest forms I’ve ever tried. Well done! The strength of your convictions as well as your talent shine bright here this evening. Bravo!

    Reply

    • Tash, Thank you. The villanelle is the trickest form for me, too. I don’t know if it’s the repetition or they rhyme scheme, or maybe the combination of the two. I definitely agonize over each line more with this form than any other. But I do love a good challenge. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5466. I need reminded of this too, Linda! Thank you! And I love how you thought about that as you chose the villanelle form to use for it. God bless you as He calls you friend today!

    Reply

  5467. smiles…to know him as friend def is a rather revolutionary thing…its much easier often to see him as a king…but friend i think exposes his heart all the more….

    Reply

    • Brian, And to remember that He is both king and friend is probably the greatest epiphany of all – that a king of His magnitude would want to be our friend should always remind us of our worth. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5468. Oh I loved the idea of a round up for volunteers at your church . . and these great songs being sung too! Thank you for sharing them with us!!! God bless you and the light you are for Him!

    Reply

  5469. This is a really great analogy, between Jesus as boss or friend. Thank you, Linda . .. and loved the song too! God bless you as you spend time with your best Friend!

    Reply

  5470. Well, I’m a day behind because I typically read these from the email alerts. But happy anniversary anyway! 26 years is great! My wife and I will celebrate 27 this coming October.

    Reply

  5474. Speaking of songs, this reminds me of the Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams”:

    Some of them want to use you
    Some of them want to get used by you
    Some of them want to abuse you
    Some of them want to be abused

    Your stanza on Jesus and Satan, and the whole issue of trust vis-a-vis God also reminded me of the Book of Job.

    Reply

  5476. I was doing a google search looking for an old poem that used to be commonly printed in front of New Testaments when I found your poem. While it obviously isn’t the poem I was looking for, I nevertheless enjoyed what I read. Thank you for holding forth the value of God’s word. What a beautiful treasure we have in our Bible.

    Reply

  5481. honesty is so important.. that’s one of the things i expect from a good friend even if it hurts sometimes…cool mix of billy joel and king david here..smiles

    Reply

  5482. My mum always taught me that. She really didn’t like liars because she said ‘You can usually catch a thief but, a liar is far more difficult but, they always have to remember what they lied about though, to be certain not to be found out.’
    We all lie to some extent even if it’s not to hurt someone’s feelings and, if we say we don’t we are lying to ourselves but, I agree and try to teach my teen, it’s far better to tell the truth and then you don’t need to always be careful of not being found out.
    Nicely said.

    Reply

    • Thanks. I have tried to teach my teen honesty as well, and I think the lesson has sunk in. As I wrote this I kept thinking of a joke I recently read: “I’m always disappointed when a liar’s pants don’t actually catch on fire.” The first time I read it I had to stop and think about it, then I remembered the old taunt, “Liar, liar, pants on fire.” But they don’t – sometimes you never know you’ve been lied to. The scarier thing is when we lie ourselves and think we will get away with it. But God always knows, so the liar doesn’t ever really get away with it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5483. Thanks for another interesting read. Honesty is an ideal we all applaud, but too often fail to practise. It’s a shameful, but inevitable, part of being human I fear.

    Reply

  5484. I can sure see why you were crying . . .me too! I was so blessed that Mercy was your topic today, because that is what He spoke to me about this morning! 🙂 God bless you and your heart that desires more of Him.

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve been thinking about this post for several days but just got around to writing it this morning. I’m not surprised that I posted it in God’s perfect timing. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5485. Interesting I was thinking of a new pellet barbecue and also saw them at Costco. The salesman made such a point how much cheaper Costco was than my local dealer he made me want to go see and buy from a local owned shop and there was two in Chico so I visited both and both not only sold the Traeger but Also the Green Mtn. Grill. I bought the better built and more feature Daniel Boone model and couldn’t be happier. After hearing that the tech guys at Traeger couldn’t get your old one going why would you buy another?

    Reply

    • We actually found a local dealer who was able to help with fixing our old Traeger (which was made in Mt. Angel, Oregon) with the replacement of two parts. Then we returned the other one (which we learned was made in China) to Costco. I’ve never heard of a Green Mtn. Grill so for us it was a choice between Traeger and a grill that wasn’t a pellet barbecue. I love the taste of the pellet barbecue food. It is sad that Traeger (which was a local company for us) sold out to a manufacturer that has the work done in China, but there was no way I was going back to a gas or charcoal barbecue. Hope you enjoy your new Green Mtn. Grill. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5487. I love your grace poem , and what you share, any day of the week! God bless you as you give Him your heart and life to write on!

    Reply

  5489. haven’t written a triolet in a while but def. it is a nice form…and your verse reminded me of a song that starts…the grace of god upon my life is not dependent upon me… makes me stand in awe again and again..

    Reply

  5491. LOVE this song . .. and love you! And that comment about not fretting, that God will give you inspiration to write again, because He’s awesome like that. .. love that too! 🙂 God bless you as you keep your heart stayed on Him!

    Reply

  5492. Trust is a biggee, isn’t Linda? Thank you for showing that He is totally trustworthy . . .and even able to restore trust that has been broken in our relationships. I am hearing Amy Grant singing ” Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus .. ..oh for faith to trust Thee more.” God bless you as you trust Him more and more!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love that song! I don’t know if I’ve ever heard the Amy Grant version, but it’s one of my favorites that we’ve sung in church. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks! I actually started with the two opening lines reversed, but I didn’t like how it ended, so I switched them. I think it turned out much better that way. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks Marilyn! I love this form, but you do have to start with just the right to opening lines to have it work out right. You should give it a try again. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I might! I hadn’t done much with different forms until NaPoWriMo, a daily writing challenge I did in April. I liked how sometimes it’s like doing a puzzle. 🙂

    • Deb, Even though Los Lobos isn’t really a Christian band, I just thought this song was so worth sharing. I love their lead singer’s voice. I’m glad you liked it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5499. Thank you, Linda, for helping us think about this and to be a Spirit led people, not a finger pointing group. God bless you as He directs you today and you reach out to someone He sends!

    Reply

  5505. Wow, Linda . .this made me cry and was such a powerful poem on top of meeting the challenge in such a special Jesus way. God bless you as you continue to write for Him and His glory!

    Reply

  5507. I think perhaps this is one of the best examples of beauty in sadness. Without the sadness, the Easter story would not have happened. Seconding also what Claudia has said.

    Reply

  5508. My questions come alive here along with what I wish I could see looking at multiple replicas of the cross, inhabited or uninhabited: a beauty made of triumph and mystery, a symbol of how, in crucifying Jesus, hands of God were at work, so that the resurrection can be experienced by all of us. Your voice now joins the artists through the ages who attempt to show the mercy as Jesus receives it and as he experiences his successful quest. Thank you for the beauty of this poem.

    Reply

  5509. i imagine the scene itself pretty gruesome…crucifiction def was not for the faint of heart…and how they treated him (not condemning them, we surely treat him as much often) but def what it represnts is beautiful….i think there is a great contrast of the beautiful sadness in it…

    Reply

  5510. you know…while I was in Italy, I saw so much catholic imagery….there was one in particular that kept me transfixed…and it was a wax sculpture of Christ on the cross…and just his expression, his posture, his colour….everything about it was beautiful….and your poem reminded me so much of this

    Reply

  5511. there’s beauty for sure in the cross…your poem makes me think of a song by matt redman…for the cross.. where one line goes..i’m overwhelmed by the mystery… and i am..over and over again…

    Reply

  5519. Aub’s little cat does that, Linda, inside the house. She’s blind, but finds those warm sun places. Wonderfully painted poem! God bless you and yours and your sweet pup!

    Reply

  5520. “the moment is gone as quickly as it began
    and the sunlight must be content
    to warm only the deck’

    Nice and surprising end touch that the sun also seeks out the dog! Old friends are the best friends!

    Reply

  5523. Hey! were you on my back deck! I see this scene daily, though my dog IS old–very old. It brings a tear to my eye to see her plop down in the sun and soak the warmth from it into her creaky old bones.
    Wonderful poem, Linda!

    Reply

    • My dog is only 7 and so I refuse to think of him as old yet. I had a cocker spaniel once that lived to 18 and I’m hoping for the same from my little black cockapoo. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5528. Awww…I have a little 10 pound Yorkie whom I just love to bits too. He’s finding it hard to stay cool in the heat this past week. Keep trying to get him to lay on the floor where it’s cooler but, he insists on laying beside me on the couch.
    Loved this. 🙂

    Reply

  5530. What is it about dogs and basking in the sun? Mine move around the house looking for the sun, even on the hottest days. Interesting that your dog basks in the sun only in your presence..mine bask whether I am near or not. I can picture him..black with those white hairs, giving him a grey look in the sun. Nice!

    Reply

    • Mary, My dog does bask in the sun when I’m not around, but not outside. He’s kind of an inside dog and doesn’t like to go outside unless someone is with him. But he’ll find a sunny spot on the carpet in a heartbeat. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5532. smiles…you paint a beautiful pup…with enough detail to let me in on the moment and listen to him there panting and soaking it in….i bet he is content…

    Reply

  5533. nice…you really painted with your words and made me see him… a fleeting moment that just feels warm and satisfying..like looking at a good painting

    Reply

  5537. i like them…but i also really like thomas…he made it real for many of us…those that struggle and doubt and would have clearly asked the same…smiles…very nice verse…

    Reply

  5538. What a blessing you are to him, I’m sure that he knows. We home-school our little ones, in our community the parents aim to bring out the inner abilities of the children. I wouldn’t have it any other way especially with the possibility of placing them with a teacher who holds her heart away from the children. You are wonderful for keeping his canvas bright.

    Reply

  5539. Hi Linda,

    I just recently stumbled across your blog as I was looking for ways to network with websites that are a little more seasoned than mine ( : Although there is no need to feel obligated, would it be possible to get a link on your blogroll if you are comfortable with my site content? Feel free to email me directly, and thanks for your feedback either way!

    Reply

    • Jeff, Welcome! When I get a chance I will check out your site and give you a link if it fits with the kinds of things I include there. I’ll give you a little advice about growing your blog following, though, and that is just to visit other blogs and comment on their posts. Eventually people will come visit your blog, too, and comment. Soon it will be like you’ve been a part of the blog community forever. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • I understand what you meant. I hadn’t really thought about it that way – nice insight into the poem. What’s funny is that I started off trying to write this poem about a completely different incident a year before, but it just wouldn’t be written. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5541. Yes, even as adults we need encouragement, don’t we? The story of your son’s experience is so sad. You captured it so well with your words. It is SO fortunate that you were there to see it happening or you might never have realized just why your son stopped being interested in art. Thankfully, you were able to help him regain his inspiration and his dream.

    When I was in college I had a teacher for ‘kiddy art’ (a class for future elementary school teachers). The teacher told me she had never seen someone with such a lack of artistic talent as me. Can you imagine? That remark has lived with me to this day. I have since that time, as an adult, taken drawing and painting classes (just because), and I have told each teacher of that woman’s remark. They have told me that they have heard this story often….that there are other people who have been hurt forever by someone’s unkind remark. Even though I have, since college years, created works I have been proud of, there is not ONE time when I sit down to create something that I don’t first have to conquer the insensitive woman’s remark. (One made DECADES ago!) I think, however, it has made me more sensitive to what I will say to others in regard to their creations. We never really know how long a thoughtless remark will live.

    Reply

  5542. oh i’m glad you were there just in the right moment and i’m glad that you could encourage him not to stop painting.. really like what he does from the pic you posted

    Reply

  5543. I am so excited about your son possibly going to the Art Institute and doing something that he is passionate about . . .and good at! 🙂 And your pantoum was so good too!!! Artistry runs in the family! God bless you!

    Reply

  5545. nice…i love that you used the pantoum form again….ugh on the teacher and i am glad it did not stop him in the end…there are some that just should not teach…we ran into one of those this year ourselves….such an abuse of power…i am glad he over came…

    Reply

    • Brian, In the long run I think those few bad teachers he has encountered along the way have only made him stronger, helped him to realize what he can overcome. He is really excited about the possibility of attending the Art Institute of Portland to study animation. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5546. Simply lovely… creativity is a precious gift… I love the formal circularity too and you landed it perfectly in the final stanza

    Reply

    • Thank you. I have found that the most important part of a pantoum is the first line, because it is also the last. You have to make sure that one line sums up the whole poem. And it helps when you are writing on a subject you love. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5547. This is beautiful. Your son is blessed to have you as his mother and is very lucky you happened by that classroom when you did. When I was very small I asked a neighbor’s father about the drawing I was making and he became almost enraged by my request. He spoke with such disdain, said oh come on… you know it’s good… It was like a slap and confused me very much. Was it wrong to ask for feedback? Did I know it was good and was bragging? There’s more to the story but it was something that kept me in the closet for a long time, hiding, afraid of sharing my work. I’m so happy to read this. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply

    • As children we were all so impressionable. It’s sad when kids are discouraged from following their dreams. Imagine what a beautiful world this would be if we were all encouraged as kids to use our talents to make it a better place! Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment of encouragement. Even as adults we need that. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5548. Very nice, this piece fits to form and shares so many actual accounts. I really like, “the Spirit dwelling within overcomes”. Lovely, Linda.

    Reply

  5550. I absolutely love the way you used the form to highlight the martyred sufferings that culminate in salvation. The way you worked the form so that the first two lines in the main quatrains reflect a martyrdom, and the second two lines reflect a redemption. That shows a good instinct for the melodic line. Well done.

    Reply

  5552. very nicely done to form…i love how you brought out all that they suffered but through it held faiht…was just talking with someone the other day how the message seems to spread all the more in those moments of persecution…

    Reply

  5553. I had thought the form was best suited for sad subjects, but now that I see your poem, I realize it works quite well for a Christian poem as well. The repetition reinforces the belief and the stories/symbols. Showing how twisted my modern mind is, I initially had a more hippy interpretation of “Stephen was stoned” (oops).

    Reply

    • Thanks. I have found that this form works well for Christian poetry – both happy and sad. And thanks for the laugh. I suppose some might argue that Stephen must have been stoned – in the hippy sense of the word – because he saw the clouds open up and reveal the throne of God in heaven. But I’m glad you realized that wasn’t what I meant. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thank you! I absolutely love this form. The repetition allows for parallels between different aspects of a subject, as here I was able to draw parallels between the different heroes of the Christian faith. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5555. really nice work on the pantoum linda…and i love the examples you bring…stephen and paul.. def. two of my heroes… i would like to add joseph who was sold into egypt and though in bonds and enslaved he was more free than those that surrounded him..very nicely done

    Reply

    • Claudia, You are right – Joseph would have been the perfect Old Testament example. Freedom is definitely a state of the mind and soul more so than of the body. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5557. Linda, I loved what you discovered and are going to do differently. 🙂 I’m going to think about this and see what I can come up with too! Thank you and God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, With the Holy Spirit’s strength and power I know I can follow through. So glad I don’t have to do it on my own. I pray the Lord leads you to the thing you need to do differently. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5558. yes lord you have give as a new mornday blessing ,,,Dot,,,,,,”””“Still, if you set your heart on God and reach out to him, If you scrub your hands of sin and refuse to entertain evil in your home, You’ll be able to face the world unashamed and keep a firm grip on life, guiltless and fearless. You’ll forget your troubles; they’ll be like old, faded photographs.” (Job 11:13-16 MSG)

    As long as you focus on someone you resent, that person controls you. You’re worrying about something he or she has already forgotten about.

    Long before psychology came along, Job said there are three steps for inner healing:

    1. Put your heart right. If you want to be emotionally healed from a hurt, you have to release the offender — whether you feel like it or not. Don’t try to get even. Forgive that person, then release him or her.

    2. Reach out to God. You need to invite Christ to come into your life and fill you with his forgiveness. Why? I don’t think you can manufacture enough forgiveness in your life to handle all the hurts you’re going to face, not only those of the past but those you’ll have between now and when you die.

    Reply

    • Sisterdot, That is great advice from Job! We definitely don’t have enough forgiveness in our hearts without Jesus. Just look at all the violence in the world fueled by anger and unforgiveness. A world or life without Christ is filled with these things. But a life with Christ is filled with forgiveness and love. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5559. Love that song!
    You and I share the love of Christian music so if someday we are driving along and we see each other singing Praise in our cars
    We can smile at each other and know Worship can be anywhere, anytime and in any space – Who cares if anyone thinks we are crazy – The Lord knows our heart and forgives our singing voice – Someday when we are in heaven we can belt out the tunes like the next America’s Got Talent winner
    God Bless

    Reply

    • I knew you’d like this one. 🙂 I look forward someday in Heaven singing side by side, belting out our praises in our new, beautiful voices. I don’t have much of a singing voice now, but I am thankful God knows my heart when I sing to Him and is pleased. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Peace Linda and after I posted my comment I thought – Oh NO I wonder if Linda is in the choir or something and I just insulted her but I should have known – you are so gracious and it would be my pleasure to stand next to you – Singing away in Praise
        God Bless

  5560. Refreshingly honest look at “food dependence”.
    I can definitely relate to the struggle you’ve outlined. And, there can often be a legitimate physical issue that needs attention along with the spiritual need.
    Thank God for His provision of Spirit-directed self-control!

    Reply

  5561. I LOVED this, LInda! That His love held Him there. . .really impacting! God bless you as He continues to pour poetry out of you!

    Reply

  5562. This blessed me so much Linda, and is something that I am dealing with, with His help. I didn’t even realize I WAS stressed, until He showed me what I was doing and why. duh. Loved the verse you shared. Yes and amen. And God bless you and all He is accomplishing in your life today!

    Reply

    • Deb, That is one of my favorite verses for when the devil tries to convince me I’m a failure. It reminds me that as I let God work in my life and in my heart I will be changed for the better, and that He doesn’t expect me to be perfect on my own. I’m so glad this was a blessing to you, and will pray for Holy Spirit self-control to face your stress in His strength. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5564. Thank you, Linda

    This is some deep stuff :
    ‘You have done something unspeakable, and by all rights I should call it quits between us. Both my pride and my principles (q.v.) demand no less. However, although I make no guarantees that I will be able to forget what you’ve done, and though we may both carry the scars for life, I refuse to let it stand between us. I still want you for my friend.’

    I am chewing and swallowing!

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I’ve been chewing on this topic all week, almost ready to swallow. 🙂 My favorite line of Buechner’s definition is: “In the first place, forgiveness that’s conditional isn’t really forgiveness at all, just Fair Warning.” Thankfully God gives us more than fair warning. He gives us unconditional love and mercy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5565. Insightful post, Linda.
    There have been times I’ve considered whether I’d be comfortable with knowing God’s type of forgiveness looked like mine. “My” way often has left others wondering where they stood with me or with the idea that they had to earn back my love. I don’t want to be like that.
    Asking the Lord to enable me to forgive in a way that pleases Him is so important!

    Reply

  5566. there is no doubt that forgiveness is hard. i agree that He provides us with the strength and power we need to do so, but it is still a choice we must make on our own. sometimes that is the hardest part.

    very nice verse.

    Reply

  5567. forgiveness is surely not easy…esp in light of what happened in colorado this week…concepts hard to grasp for our minds…i am glad we doi not do it in our own strength….

    Reply

  5568. I love how this turned out Linda, and how He led you to explain about forgiveness! I’m so glad we don’t have to figure it all out and do it on our own! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad we don’t have to do it on our own, either! If we could do it all on our own, then there would have been no reason for Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. And I’m pretty sure God doesn’t do things of that magnitude without reason. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5570. HI ALL IS MORNDAY ,,,WE THANK YOU FATHER FOR A NEW DAY……
    Psalm 27 (NKJV)

    27 The Lord is my light and my salvation;
    Whom shall I fear?
    The Lord is the strength of my life;
    Of whom shall I be afraid?
    2 When the wicked came against me
    To eat up my flesh,
    My enemies and foes,
    They stumbled and fell.
    3 Though an army may encamp against me,
    My heart shall not fear;
    Though war may rise against me,
    In this I will be confident.

    4 One thing I have desired of the Lord,
    That will I seek:
    That I may dwell in the house of the Lord
    All the days of my life,
    To behold the beauty of the Lord,
    And to inquire in His temple.
    5 For in the time of trouble
    He shall hide me in His pavilion;
    In the secret place of His tabernacle
    He shall hide me;
    He shall set me high upon a rock.

    6 And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me;
    Therefore I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle;
    I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.

    7 Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice!
    Have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
    8 When You said, “Seek My face,”
    My heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.”
    9 Do not hide Your face from me;
    Do not turn Your servant away in anger;
    You have been my help;
    Do not leave me nor forsake me,
    O God of my salvation.
    10 When my father and my mother forsake me,
    Then the Lord will take care of me.

    11 Teach me Your way, O Lord,
    And lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies.
    12 Do not deliver me to the will of my adversaries;
    For false witnesses have risen against me,
    And such as breathe out violence.
    13 I would have lost heart, unless I had believed
    That I would see the goodness of the Lord
    In the land of the living.

    14 Wait on the Lord;
    Be of good courage,
    And He shall strengthen your heart;
    Wait, I say, on the Lord
    …….

    Reply

  5571. You are not crazy to believe the devil exists. The word of God speaks of the existence of evil, the prince of darkness, satan, the devil, etc. Excellent post!

    Reply

  5572. I love the story of Joseph. It is a picture of Jesus. everything about Joseph was pointed to Jesus.

    @”But as our pastor pointed out this morning, scripture doesn’t give us an out. Jesus said, “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV)”
    …………………………….
    so do we forgive in order to be forgiven?

    Reply

    • Yes, our pastor talked about the similarities between Joseph and Jesus. There is so much in the Old Testament that points us to Jesus as our salvation. And Jesus definitely had something to hold a grudge about, but instead He forgave.

      As to your question “so do we forgive in order to be forgiven?” I don’t believe it is that simple, or that forgiving first then being forgiven is the Godly order of things. Rather, we recognize our need for a Savior (only by the wisdom of God), we accept the saving grace of Jesus (only by the gift of faith given by God), and then He begins to changes us and places in our hearts a desire to forgive as He has forgiven. If we struggle to forgive, but ask for His help, then He is faithful to help us to forgive by His grace. The Lord does not give us a command to do anything that He is unable or unwilling to help us to do. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • But they are so good for you! I didn’t used to be a fan of avocados either, until I learned I was alergic to dairy and could no longer have cheese or sour cream on my tacos. But I can understand your aversion. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5575. Light as life, light as savior, light as resurrection, light as source – all true and a great over-riding metaphor here.

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  5576. A little light works miracles, a lovely sentiment in response to the prompt. I am glad to hear you’ve addressed the depression. Among my friends and family coming out of the darkness of depression has made all the difference in their lives. A spiritual path keeps them in the light.

    Reply

    • John, For me it was not a mere concept, but my reality for many years of major depression. I am thankful to see the colors quite vividly now. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Job is a great example, but there are people even today who have lost everything and are imprisoned and tortured for their faith. I’m not sure what I would do, but I know that God would not forsake me. Remembering that in the midst of the trial is the hard part! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5582. Tightly written for sure….I’m not a particularly religious person- BUT- I really enjoy the questions you ask in this…after all…we shouldn’t follow blindly should we?…. I particularly like the way you tag your stanzas with rhyming words…..gives this a really cool flow…particularly with those 3 lines per stanza

    Reply

    • Thanks, glad you liked it. I’m not a particularly “religious” person either. Just someone who desires to have a relationship with the one who created me. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5585. hi, i found you from deepintoscripture. this is a most beautiful poem. what an awesome testimony. glad i found you. i mostly lurk on blogs where i find hope. would like to say i write, but don’t. just read. there is much hope found in your writings. God bless you.

    Reply

    • Nancy, I am glad you found my blog, too. And I’m glad to have shared the hope of Jesus with you. He is definitely our source of all hope! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5586. What a great thing to do on your camping trip . . read! 🙂 This sounds like a great series and I haven’t heard of it. Makes me think about Jim’s posts! God bless you, Linda . Glad you had that time away!

    Reply

    • Deb, This series reminds me of Jim’s writing, too. We are camping again this weekend so I’m hoping to get most of the next book read. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5588. Hello Linda!
    Thank you so much for your thought provoking thoughts regarding Shepherd’s Door! I am the new Shepherd’s Door manager and just spent my first week here and find it to be a remarkable, Christ driven program. I’d love to have a chance to get to know you and your group a little better and would love to have you contact me at your convenience. christine.ourada@pdxmission.org or 503.746.9732. God bless!!!

    Reply

    • Christine, Congratulations on your new job! I look forward to meeting you. Our group will be back to serve on July 25 & another date in August. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5589. yay for vacation time, with family and friends, rest and relaxation . .. and job perspective adjusting! God bless you!

    Reply

  5590. So beautiful put and I love how you formatted this one, how it flowed from those serving us to Jesus laying down His life for us . God bless you and yours!

    Reply

  5591. it’s true–the cost is great, but it we didn’t fight for it (with so much evil out there) we’d all pay bound in shackles.

    a good topic for today.

    Reply

  5592. Based on this (the Fruit of the Spirit), you may find a book, “The 3 Colors of Love” by Christian Schwarz, to be of some interest.

    Reply

  5593. freedom is def never free…and we should cherish it and support those that defend it…i do think we should have a better way than war, but….

    Reply

  5596. What a beautiful illustration of what we need and how we can so easily get lost with the wrong input in our lives. God bless you and the wonderful folks at Shepherd’s Door, as Jesus love is given to those so needing to receive the right directions.

    Reply

  5597. Loved this Linda . .so encouraging and blessed, knowing “the God of grace gives us what we don’t deserve.” God bless you and fill you with His grace and peace today!

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  5598. This is such a great post! I went and read the psalm, and I practically have Romans 7 and 8 memorized. Scripture interprets scripture. Sometimes we put the cart before the horse, but this post put things where they should be. Thank you for sharing it.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  5599. What a great background story to a great poem! Love how you find inspiration! God bless you as He delights in you today!

    Reply

    • Deb, I couldn’t hardly believe I pulled the same three words after shuffling the deck! I figured God had something He wanted me to see in those words that I hadn’t seen before. 🙂 It’s a simple poem, but those are the best kind! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5600. Good thinking, and great poem. It seems to me that quotes like the one that started all that are designed to create more fear than love. But I agree with you that God’s holiness and love can really not be separated. I also agree with Rosemary’s comment. Powerful ending!

    Reply

    • Jeff, Thanks. It is true that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, by which I mean that having an awe and reverence for Him, not being terrified. I do think that sometimes people try to use the latter meaning of fear to get people to believe. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5601. This one brought the tears, Linda. Really beautiful and so Him. You had me smiling at how it all culminated in a poem! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, What a sweet comment! You are always such an encouragement to me. It does seem that so many of my thoughts culminate in poems these days. 🙂 Our God is so good! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Rosemary, Thank you for pointing this out. Even though I wrote the poem, it wasn’t until you pointed out the power in this closing stanza that it really hit me. Thanks for making me re-read it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5606. 1. He takes occasion hence to make a penitent reflection upon his sins; for by the law is the knowledge of sin. “Is the commandment thus holy, just, and good? Then who can understand his errors? I cannot, whoever can.” From the rectitude of the divine law he learns to call his sins his errors. If the commandment be true and righteous, every transgressions of the commandment is an error, as grounded upon a mistake; every wicked practice takes rise from some corrupt principle; it is a deviation from the rule we are to work by, the way we are to walk in. From the extent, the strictness, and spiritual nature, of the divine law he learns that his sins are so many that he cannot understand the number of them, and so exceedingly sinful that he cannot understand the heinousness and malignity of them. We are guilty of many sins which, through our carelessness and partiality to ourselves, we are not aware of; many we have been guilty of which we have forgotten; so that, when we have been ever so particular in the confession of sin, we must conclude with an et cetera-and such like; for God knows a great deal more evil of us than we do of ourselves. In many things we all offend, and who can tell how often he offends? It is well that we are under grace, and not under the law, else we were undone.

    Reply

  5608. “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.”
    To be holy, whole. To be wholly, complete in our Lord for ever. There will be a day when I will come face to face with my Lord and be complete. Thanks for such a beautiful poem. Your Bro. in Christ Richard:)

    Reply

    • Richard, I love that verse! Sometimes during prayer I think I see clearly, I can feel Him so close, but I know that vision pales by comparison to how we will see Him in all His glory some day. What a wonderful day that will be, when we fully comprehend His love and holiness. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, I listened to all Aaron Shust while I was getting ready for work today. All of his music is so beautiful and worshipful. I think I will post a few more of his songs in the near future. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5611. This is a beautiful post, Linda. Psalm 19 was a family memory project a while back and the verses you cited also impacted me. Your conclusions here concerning blamelessness /are spot on.

    If we recognize our own sinfulness, and trust in God to forgive us of our sins and keep us from sin, then we will be found blameless and acquitted of our transgressions.

    Amen!

    Reply

    • Heather, Thanks! I just love when I find this truth stated so clearly in the Old Testament. It’s a great reminder that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5612. Linda, this poem is just perfect and I’m praying with you, that He would be forever enough for me! God bless you . . it’s almost the weekend!

    Reply

  5613. Very good post…everyone should read this one! “Things” are not important…investing in people is what is important!

    Reply

  5614. This brings to my thoughts of 1Chr. 29:14 “for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.”
    A very good message.

    Reply

  5615. Thank you, Linda, for sharing this CS Lewis quote. He has a way of putting things, eh? Sometimes things are uncomfortable, pinchy . . and I consider not giving to what I’ve felt I should give to . . .but haven’t been able to stop giving yet. Thanks to Jesus! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, Lewis definitely has a way with words! And he is so logical in his arguments, I just love that. Bless you for your giving heart, a heart for Jesus. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5616. You make this look easy, but it’s not!! Wonderful poem about His resurrection. I loved the ending . . .so good! God bless you as He keeps the poems coming!

    Reply

    • Deb, Anything looks easy when you rely on the Holy Spirit to help! 🙂 He provides wisdom, strength, and so much more. I’ve actually been pondering doing a poetry workshop at my church, but I’m afraid people wouldn’t sign up because they would think writing poetry is too hard. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5617. Good album. I’m trying to remember (I’ve listened to it before), is “That’s What Faith Can Do” on that album? I think that’s my favorite Kutless song.

    Reply

  5618. I don’t think I’ve heard this before, Linda and have to wait to listen to it now. wwwaaahhh. 🙂 But I’ll be back because I’m sure to love it. You have never steered me wrong! God bless you and your music ministry!

    Reply

  5619. Good passages and illustration. I have used that one several times too, I guess it is pretty universal! One other passage that I think is good too, Heb 1:1-3.

    Reply

    • Steven, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. You are absolutely correct that Heb. 1:1-3 is another great passage to support that Jesus existed in the beginning and that He is fully God. Thanks for adding that. I know there are other great verses I could have quoted – the Word in its entirely points to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as the One True God, who was, is, and always will be! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5620. This is great Linda. I especially liked the analogy of how to know counterfeit is to study the original. 🙂 I didn’t realize that about JW and the translation that they use. That explains a lot! God bless you as you study His word today!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad this post was a blessing to you and that you learned something new. 🙂 God’s Word is so awesome, I do love studying it to know Him better. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5621. “It’s not a wish come true / but a prayer answered” I loved that Linda! God bless you, one of His beloved ones! 🙂

    Reply

  5622. This poem is absolutely beautiful! I like your thoughts , too about the name “beloved”…perfect for the Bride of Christ analogy. I also think it is really special that the desire of your heart is so God honoring.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, I never thought of us being the Bride of Christ and how that fit with this poem. I actually wrote this in about 10 minutes late last night when I should have been going to bed. 🙂 Peace, Linda

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  5623. Linda, there is really something beautiful and special as you do these forms to something that He has laid on your heart! I think this is another good one fro Broken Believers! 🙂 God bless you as you keep allowing Him to use your pen! 🙂

    Reply

  5625. I know it’s heresy to ask this, but if you wanted to make vegetarian Boston baked beans (i.e., no salt pork), what could you substitute? I tend to use barbecue sauce in soups and stews to get the smoky flavor without the pork. Or organic liquid smoke. Any suggestions?

    Reply

    • I would follow this recipe but use the vegetarian Bush’s Baked Beans instead of the Honey, and leave out the bacon. The Aardvark sauce will give it a kind of smokiness and spice that will more than make up for the lack of bacon. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5626. Linda, your villanelle is your own. It certainly follows the rhyme scheme and repetition and is closely written in 6 syllable lines..some iambic, some not. The usual call is for iambic pentameter but as I never fail to say (and Sam, believes it as well) – one must take the form and bend it to our own voice and rhythms which you have done well here. It expresses your faith well in its repetitions – much like a chant or an om.

    Reply

    • Gay, Thanks. I must confess that I can’t really wrap my mind around what constitutes “iambic pentameter.” I’ve read definitions but somehow it just doesn’t stick. My real preference is for free form poetry, but I do enjoy the repetitive nature of some of the forms, such as this one, the pantoum, and the triolet. I appreciate the feedback from a pro. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5627. i will let the form masters critique your form…i have never written one, so…smiles…i like the overcoming through out your poem…and that it is achieved through humility which is what confession is all about…

    Reply

    • Brian, This poem is really quite autobiographical and the subject close to my heart. Humility truly is the key to escaping the darkness of pride that can engulf us if we are not vigilant. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5628. “Feeling His love’s caress
    Compassion burning bright
    Light shines in the darkness
    My need I will confess”
    “But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous, in mercy and truth”(Psalm 86:15)
    So much truth in four short lines.
    Thanks your Bro. Richard:)

    Reply

  5630. I am happy for you, and your nephew. The poem is even a good one. However, I have to say, I hate weddings. I am a pastor who hates doing weddings – is that wrong? Congratulations, though.

    Reply

    • Anthony, You really wouldn’t have like officiating over this wedding. It was outside and the weather didn’t really cooperate. It was barely 55 degrees, overcast, and very windy. At the end of the ceremony it started to sprinkle. But it was beautiful nonetheless. And the storminess was perfect with the Pr. message about how forgiveness helps couples through the storms of life. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I had one couple bring me to the gulf coast to perform a wedding in a gazebo on the beach. Now THAT was a wedding that I liked. God a weeks vacation out of it, too. If they could all…..wait…that will be my new requirement!

  5632. What a wonderful poem and a gift for the couple to wed!!! God bless you as you celebrate your nephew’s wedding! I love weddings! 🙂

    Reply

  5633. It sounds wonderful, Linda! I like how you come up with your own recipes . .even to take places! And I won’t tell the Aardvark. 🙂 God bless you and yours this weekend!

    Reply

    • Deb, It can be kind of risky to take an untried recipe to a picnic like this, but as long as it’s something I’m pretty sure of I find it’s worth the risk. 🙂 And thanks for keeping the secret! We are off to a wedding this weekend and looking forward to the celebration. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5634. I loved the line, “displacing hopelessness” . 🙂 That is something that I don’t miss a bit! God bless you and your thankful heart!

    Reply

  5635. Linda:
    I was looking for some poems on the fruit of the spirit for a women’s retreat and somehow I found your blog – glad I did. It is so refreshing to read the words of other believers. They are encouraging for sure. I also love Jeremy Camp’s songs! I think I have 3 of his cds. I didn’t know his wife has a cd. I need to check that out. I notice that your blog entries are from last year…. are you still writing?
    In HIS love,
    Cindy

    Reply

    • Cindy, Welcome to my blog! I’m so glad you found it. Those poems I wrote on the fruit of the Spirit are some of my favorites. If you like Jeremy Camp, you definitely have to check out Adie’s CD. Her voice is so beautiful! My singing voice, such as it is, is in the lower registers so I can’t sing along with her in the car as well as I can with Jeremy or some other male vocalists, but I love to listen to her.

      I am still writing at least 4 new posts per week. If you click on the Home link it will take you to the most recent posts. I almost always write a thankful thursday poem and recently have written some Psalm-like poems. The Lord has blessed me so and I just love sharing His love and grace. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5636. Just fantastic! Would I be speaking out of line if I said I envy your faith…not to mention the way you laid it down here in this form. A beautiful, “felt” read for me this evening. Pure Poetry!

    Reply

    • Tash, What a wonderful comment! Thank you. And thank you for “scooping” my post to share with others. When I wrote this I was thinking of my own struggles with depression, but as I reread the poem, I realized it was an encouragement for anyone who endures struggles of any kind. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5637. Oh I love this and the idea of God whispering into the soul of a lost and broken person . .singing quiet at first and then louder, hitting full force with His love and desire for us to be with Him.
    God bless you as He sings over you with delight!

    Reply

  5638. i’ve never tried a pantoum so far..a form that scares me somehow..so kudos for approaching it…and i like the direct voice in your poem linda

    Reply

    • Claudia, This is actually the 4th pantoum that I’ve written. I love the form, and it is much easier than it seems at first glance. You really should try one – I bet you’d be great at it! And I have dVerse to thank for teaching me this form in the first place. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5640. Linda, Your post on Broken Believers is awesome. Thank you for continuing to write about what matters in our lives, and the hope you have found in our Savior.

    Reply

    • Margaret, Thank you. 🙂 It seems impossible now to NOT write of the hope I have found. If I didn’t share it here I think I might explode! And I am so blessed by those who are touched and encouraged by what I write. What an honor that is that the Lord would allow me to do this. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5641. Good read…well said. The Trinity…one of God’s mysteries to be believed by faith…explanation on the other side. Thanks, Linda.

    Reply

  5642. Oh this turned out so wonderful, Linda!
    “He saw the anguished turmoil of my broken soul” . . .this line really blessed me. He saw me and knew what I needed (HIM!) before I ever figured out what was going on.
    God bless you as He continues to send us hope through your poems and posts!

    Reply

    • Deb, This whole “Psalm” is a summary of my life with Jesus! I just love the pantoum form for this poem, and am so thankful for your comment that inspired me to write it. 🙂 Your encouragement all along has really helped me be bolder with my poetry. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5643. “Rescued me from my trouble, sorrow, and darkness deep
    Now I know His grace and mercy are mine to keep.”

    I’ve been having those very same thoughts lately (not as beautifully expressed, but still…). And I’ve been thinking about Jesus, too… that He cares about my broken soul and died for me. Praise His name, and what a wonderful expression of His love you’ve written. Thanks, Linda.

    Reply

    • Linda, I had a feeling you’d like this one. It is such a blessing to know that He does love us and cares about souls. And poetry is a wonderful medium to express my gratitude. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5646. Thank you Linda. God’s timing was perfect as always. He truly spoke loud and clear to me this day. Thanks again. Richard:)

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  5647. I loved this Linda . . .another Psalm like one, beautifully full of praise and worship! Thank you and God bless you! I needed my thankful reminder tonight!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love how the triolet form lends itself to Christian poetry so well. I like that idea that this is “Psalm like” – it gives me ideas for another triolet. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5649. Wow, Linda . ..I remembered you were not comfortable with water, but I didn’t know why. Oh gosh. And then how you applied that to being immersed in the Holy Spirit, that was so powerful. Praying to let Him have all of me more and more. Thank you so much for how you encourage us in Jesus!
    God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve told this story many times but never written it down. It just fit so well with our Youth Minister’s sermon illustration. 🙂 I’m so glad this was encouraging to you. We all need all the encouragement we can get as we choose the narrow road to follow Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5650. “Just as I am afraid of being completely immersed in water, those of us who are indwelt with the Holy Spirit (because we have placed our trust in Christ Jesus) are often afraid of being completely immersed in and consumed by the Holy Spirit.”

    I guess I didn’t understand that devout believers can actually be that way. I thought I was the only one. I save those top twelve inches so I can turn away and do my own thing. It’s the place where Jesus isn’t, or so I pretend.

    Love the part about the swimming pool, Linda. It paints such a clear picture of why treading water is overrated. Great story… thanks.

    Reply

    • You, my friend, are definitely not alone in being afraid to give up all control to God. Even though I know in my heart it would be better if I did – I know because some days I am successful at doing so – most of the time I don’t. I am thankful that He is always there nonetheless. Glad you liked the story – it’s one that’s stuck with me for years. I am much less fearful of water than I once was, but it will never be my favorite place to be. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5651. Oh I loved this Linda! I liked “common faith connects them now / over centuries we are connected too.” What a wonder He is to accomplish all of this! God bless you and yours!

    Reply

    • Deb, The Holy Spirit connects across the Internet, too, as fellow believers like us who have never met in person are brought together as part of the body of Christ! Our God is wonderful, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5652. This is so encouraging to think about, because you know how there is so much we can’t control .. like other people! haha! But we can put ourselves under His control and ask Him to change us. I’ve seen this in my life over and over as many situations and people don’t change, but He keeps changing me. 🙂 God bless you and yours and all the good change He brings your way!

    Reply

    • Deb, It is encouraging to be able to look back and see how He has changed me over the years as I pray. You are right that is so many situations others do not change – and thankfully God doesn’t change either. He is always faithful to answer our prayers. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5653. Well written! This is what all Christian should know. I really enjoyed this. Thanks Linda.

    Reply

  5660. I love silence too and I loved your poem.
    ‘Worthy is the Lamb that was slaughtered
    to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might
    and honour and glory and blessing!”

    Reply

  5661. Revelation 8:1… an interesting place to start for your stunning double triolet. The clarity of your words and phrasing makes me wonder why this book is such a scary place… so much information, and yet, so much peace.

    Reply

    • Linda, I love Revelation. It’s where one finds Jesus saying, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.” Although there’s a lot that’s hard to understand in Revelation, there is so much beauty and peace. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks! I truly love the triolet form. I actually started writing this as two separate poems with the first being written second, but then when I re-read it seemed it needed to go in the other order. I just love poetry! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5664. Just this morning, I waited in silence, just a bit longer, and He spoke to me in it! Loved this double triolet . . .and a found poem! Wow . . .you keep upping the bar, Linda! God bless you and your times of golden silence!

    Reply

    • Deb, When you’re writing for the best Savior in the world, only the best will do. And still it never seems quite good enough for me. I’m so glad Jesus looks at our intentions and desire to know Him in our heart instead of what we actually accomplish. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5666. Linda- I’m happily sitting in silence after a day on a field trip with 10 and 11 year-old kids… ahhh. I think the form really accents this piece. Love it!

    Reply

  5667. I admit, I am one of those young people with headphones on, but I agree with the premise of this poem. Silence is such a profound sound, one that should be cherished.

    Reply

    • Alex, My son was actually the inspiration for that particular comment. He even admits he has his headphone in too much, sometimes without even having his iPod turned on. And I must confess that I listen to music as I get ready for work and while I’m driving to work. But I do know that when I take the time to sit in silence, that is when I am most likely to hear God speak. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5668. I love this. A friend of mine once told me that you can’t learn anything new when you are speaking–silence is required to listen–Lovely piece!

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  5670. nice…i like how you took that verse and made it here…silence i think is def something that is missing in our lives in many ways…i will add though we have to be careful giving noice a bad name because i think god can be found there too…joyful noise…smiles.

    Reply

  5671. silence is something precious for sure in a loud world…sometimes i just sit in the dark, listening to my own heartbeat and the silence…and it’s so good…

    Reply

  5673. amen
    I became aware that Jesus mainly judged (and there are different aspects to the word traslated as judge that English doesn’t show I think), the religious ones (the Pharisees and the Saducees) rather than the ordinary people who were struggling with their daily heavy loads (either physical or emotional etc).
    We can all, and maybe should, judge some actions (if we did not then we would not believe that anything is wrong, even judging), but should not judge the person, their heart, their motives.
    That is God’s work, and I am often very glad that it is not mine, as many things in life, can be so complicated, not black and white.
    As the apostle Paul said ‘I do not even judge myself…’
    and yet I think he (elsewhere) speaks of ‘examining ourselves’.. I think I know the difference…as I tend to be my worst judge, yet I try to find the balance of examining my actions and motives.

    Reply

  5674. the way you speak of him reminds me of how I felt/feel about my own dad who passed away in ’97 and would have been 87 by now.
    I’m glad that your dad was so helpful to you in finding faith – some parents aren’t.
    my dad was a preaching elder and we ‘had’ to go to church/Sunday school (till I, the eldest), rebelled against it at 13.
    But, I am so glad that the foundations were laid by him and mom which I came back to at 23 and found full faith in Jesus.
    Sounds like the Lord really used your dad in you finding faith, in driving you there – the bible being bought, and lovely how he came to your baptism.

    Reply

  5675. that’s really interesting – I’ve discovered many of the root meanings of Jesus’ words over the years, in connection with the Hebrew understanding, but not heard that yet.
    Thank you for passing it on.

    Reply

  5677. All of it amazes me! The references in the Old Testament come true in the New! How convincing is that?! Some of our Messianic Jewish friends have been convinced by it. We can pray for the Way, the Truth, and the Life to come swiftly and claim his people.

    Reply

  5678. Considering the Author of the Bible, nothing should ever surprise us, but since it IS the living Word of the living God, we will never in this lifetime plunge all the intricacies and marvels revealed there. Every time we read a passage we find something new: something we had not seen in the previous eleventy-eight times, and we know that if we spent every waking moment reading its pages, we would never exhaust the lessons God has for us there.

    What an amazing God!

    Reply

  5679. Thanks for sharing, Linda.
    Yep. You’re making me hungry too 🙂
    (I popped into a department store and saw something that looks like a Traeger!! Yay!)
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  5680. Linda . ..I didn’t know that and Loved it! There is so much in His word,it amazes me! Thank you for sharing and God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, Me, too! His Word is so amazing – both Old and New Testament – and the way they are are interconnected in so many little details. I am excited because I will have an opportunity to do this same study at another retreat at a different church in the area this coming September. I don’t know yet for sure if I will be able to go, but I know if I do I will learn even more about our amazing Savior! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5681. Linda . . .you are making me hungry! Those look so good! I need to pray for more creativity in the kitchen . . .well, in me while I’m in the kitchen. 😉 God bless you and have a great weekend!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are so funny! 😉 These were pretty darn delicious. I highly recommend trying them. Who needs creativity when you have a good recipe? Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5682. Thank you Linda for this really great Thankful Thursday post. I am so impressed! 🙂 God bless you as you thank and praise Him today!

    Reply

    • Deb, I changed my other post with the Trevor Morgan video that didn’t work so that it has a link to where it is on YouTube, too. So if you want to hear that song you can now. I just love Trevor’s voice, and making the video was easier than I thought it would be. I used Windows Movie Maker that was already on my computer. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5683. Thank you, Linda, so much, for sharing about your dad. I loved the things that you and he did together, those memories that you will always have. My mom called me and told me when she didn’t think my step-dad (dad to me) would last much longer. That weekend we went down and he passed awhile while we were there. It was incredibly hard, but I was so glad to be there, to see him before he died and to be with my mom.
    God bless you and your memories, until you get to hug him again!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad you got to see your step-dad before he died. I was not there when either of my parents died, and neither had a memorial service. I did go down to Desert Hot Springs after my dad died to be with his wife and my sisters who were there. I just wish I’d gone sooner. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5685. You done gone to meddlin’ now. Seriously, though, that was excellent! We could all use a healthy dose of that.

    Reply

  5686. I love how you showed this in a poem, Linda, So well done and it really gets the point across! God bless you and all the ways He speaks to us through your work!

    Reply

    • Deb, I sat on my deck for about 10 minutes arguing with God about not wanting to write this poem. “It’s too hard,” I said. Of course, in the end I wrote it and it fell into place much easier than I expected. Then at work today I caught myself being judgmental about something someone had done, the instantly realized I had done the same thing myself. He works in interesting ways, to be sure. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5687. generally, i find religious people the most judgmental of anyone i know. there are exceptions. i know one very very religious person who is the least judgmental person i know, and my x-husband is a judge and is very judgmental and hates religion…i just mean, in general…

    radiation rampage

    Reply

    • Yes, I’ve known some very religious people who are quite judgmental. But I’ve never met anyone who really knows Jesus who stayed that way. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5688. And for me the harshest judgment those “who name their faith with religion” make is “assuming” that that other woman or man has none. Because a person doesn’t knock at the door of temple, synagogue, mosque, chapel or church is certainly no reason to know whether he has faith. The strongest believers I know manifest it through their actions not through some acknowledged beliefs.

    Reply

  5689. ugh…harsh reality…we are all sinners and have fallen short, thought we often over look the little things…and big things, esp if it is us doing them…smiles.

    Reply

  5690. Ouch Ouch Ouch
    Very Powerful and helps us take that “Big Gulp”
    God Bless all of our journey’s towards being more like Christ
    susie

    Reply

  5691. I love your message in this . . His love and ability to change us! Linda . . .I didn’t know how to get the video to play, but that you did all of this is awesome! I am so impressed! 🙂 God bless you and your testimony for Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, For some reason my video was removed from YouTube. Which is too bad because I was working on another one last night and I don’t know that I’ll post it if it’s just going to be removed. I really want to share Trevor’s music and you can’t really find it anywhere online. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5692. The positive form of the golden rule can be problematic. At extremes it may lead a rapist to justify his actions to say “well would like someone to jump out and have sex with me, so I am just doing on to others what I would have them do onto me”. Though this is extreme it may prompt people to do things that other people would prefer not to be done – mowing someone’s lawn when it gets long, repeatedly visiting someone who wants solitude, etc.

    The silver (or negative golden rule) rule is a safe minimum. Alone it is not sufficient, which is why Hinduism (and I expect the other religions) have other rules such as giving to the needy, seeing God in every person, patience, compassion, etc.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. I think there is a critical flaw in the logic of your example, though. At it’s core, rape is not about sex but about power. For your scenario to support your argument the would-be rapist would have to think, “I would really like someone to overpower me and force me to do something I don’t want to do.” No one thinks like that.

      The Silver Rule may be safe, but Jesus was never safe. He was radical and challenged the status quo. He stood up for all those who followed Him and suffered death and the wrath of the Father to secure our place as His beloved. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Thanks Linda,
        I think you are right about the rape example, but I could give a number of more mundane examples. I have friends who I know will appreciate being taken out for a day-long walk on the moors, even when its raining – but I also know people who would absolutely hate that!

        Thinking about if further I don’t think that either the golden rule or the silver rule on their own can reflect the teachings of a religion. The meaning of the golden rule in Christianity is clear with the teaching of Jesus. The meaning of the silver rule is clear when taken in accord with the vedas and teachings of gurus of a follower’s lineage. Without this additional example, two murderers assisting each-other could be seen as obeying the golden rule, and one criminal not giving police evidence on another as obeying the silver.

  5695. Three cheers for David and his place in God’s own heart. He is my reassurance role model!

    I really like the story about the stranger from Michigan. Maybe these odd sayings really are regionalized?

    I haven’t heard your version about the pointed stick, but on occassion I have threatened people with “being chased with a pointed stick.” That may be an Ohio thing. ; ) Fun topic!

    Reply

    • Linda, David and Peter are both great role models for those of us who are not perfect, so that we will remember that God loves us just the same. 🙂 This was a fun post to write. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5696. Well, this was just so fun, Linda! I loved it! I’d heard of all of them but the poke in the eye one! haha! Cheering for you being able to work them all in for that final paragraph! God bless you and have a Happy Mother’s Day!

    Reply

    • Deb, I typed a reply to this on my phone before church yesterday, but then for some reason hit “Cancel” instead of “Send”. Anyway, I almost deleted that last paragraph because I thought it was a little too cheesy, but decided to leave it in anyway. I’m glad you liked it. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5697. You know what? “do unto others what you would have them do to you” means if you don’t want to get wounded don’t wound any one……..you can’t sow corn and reap peanut. I agree with you “do unto others what you would have them do to you” is the golden rule that when we abide by the world would be a happy place to live.

    Reply

  5698. Inspired by God, no doubt.

    The new creation is fresh and beautiful, but can fall just like that.

    “The stranger inside
    my sinful self
    desires to rise again” That says it all without passing judgment. I appreciate your writing so much.

    Reply

    • Linda, It take a daily reliance on Jesus to keep the sinful self from rising again. But I beleive we were made for reliance on Him. That being independent is a good thing is a lie. Hallelujah for the new creation He has made of us both! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5700. Wow! So so wonderful and true I love how He gives you these! Thank you in being so faithful to write when Holy Spirit nudges. God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, “Wow” is kind of what I thought when I re-read this when I was all done writing it. I am so blessed when the Lord chooses to write encouraging words through me. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5701. Wow, that was awesome Linda!. A poet you are. Isn’t it funny how God can put things like that on your heart? I can actually really relate to this poem, and to the gratefulness of His renewal. Thanks for putting it in words! God Bless-Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, God is the poet, I just let Him write through me. 🙂

      I thought of you last Sunday in church. The sermon topic was the “Uncommon Possession” based on Matthew 6 about storing up our treasures in Heaven. You would have loved Pr. Dave’s message. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • How cool, I know I would have loved it, it sounds great. There is so much wisdom in Matt: 6, if only we can just apply it to our lives. I am glad the Spirit writes through you as He does, it sure does encourage a lot of folks. God bless-Jim

  5703. Thank you Linda, this decribes me to a tee. I have printed this out and stuck it in my Bible. “The new creation God has made of me is all I desire to be”

    Reply

    • Richard, This is one of those poems that was all Holy Spirit and very little (if any) me in the writing. After I’d written it down and read it back to myself, I was amazed by how well it flowed. I’m so glad it was a blessing to you. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5704. “Did not he that made me in the womb make him? And did not one fashion us in the womb”(Job 31:15)?
    God the Father has made us all the very same way. We are our brothers keeper.

    Reply

  5705. Very interesting, Linda! I had never heard of the “Silver Rule” before or other religions’ beliefs concerning it. Blessings!

    Reply

    • The difference between the two rules is subtle, but important to contemplate I think. I’m glad you found this information interesting. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5706. You did such a good job explaining the difference between Jesus’ Golden Rule and the others. 🙂 God bless you as He keeps you proactive today!

    Reply

  5707. Thank you for taking me with you . . .at least that’s how it felt, getting to see and listen to this! God bless you and the sweet assurance in Him you have!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve been humming Blessed Assurance all day yesterday and today! It was such an awesome concert. I wish you really could have been there. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5708. Oh I love this one, Linda! You know when they put Psalms or scripture to music, I can memorize it so much easier and the blessing of going through the day, singing Psalms, is wonderful! Can’t wait to see how your day went yesterday! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I know what you mean. It is great to be able to have scripture running through your head all day in the form of a song! The concert was great, but I have a busy day ahead and probably won’t be able to write a post until I get home from work. Trevor Morgan was an awesome opening act – He sang Psalm 23 so beautifully! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5709. Oh I am moving and praising with this one! Thank you so much for sharing it . . big smile on my face now! God bless you as you praise Him today and tomorrow! We can’t praise Him too much! 🙂

    Reply

  5710. This all looks soooo good, Linda! Though I don’t have a Traeger, you help give me healthier ideas to try on hubby! 🙂 and of course, if he doesn’t like it, I will just have to eat it. haha! God bless you and your family!

    Reply

    • Deb, You could do this same recipe on a regular barbeque. You just have to watch and make sure to keep flame flare-ups down. 🙂 This recipe is definitely healthier than steak, but given the choice I’d usually still pick a yummy rib eye. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5711. Yaying with you! What a great thing to be thankful for. 🙂 God bless you and thinking of you as Sunday approaches!

    Reply

  5712. Thanks for sharing, Linda
    Your Third Day Posts always have a certain level of excitement to them 🙂 Looking forward to more.
    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

      • Maybe some day! We share such a love for Christian Rock music – (not that I thought I was the only one) but I could close the door and just listen to the praise forever
        God Bless

  5714. I’m so glad that you blog, Linda. Your writing draws me closer to God too. 🙂 God bless you and your heart that is His!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are such a wonderful encouragement to me. I’m glad you blog, too. Life has been so crazy lately that I haven’t had time to read other blogs as much as I would like. Or often I read but don’t have time to comment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5716. My heart belongs to Jesus too!
    I love the line you wrote: I blog because the writing draws me closer to God
    God Bless
    susie

    Reply

    • Susie, It’s very difficult to stay far from God (assuming one would want to do that) when you are thinking and writing about who He is and what He has done. When I write I am reminded of how much He has changed my heart. I know you feel the same. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5717. Oh, Linda. Me too.

    The more I learn about your personal journey, the more I am inspired that God’s same grace will apply to me. Thank you for your transparency and your willingness to reach out.

    Reply

    • Linda, I am so blessed to be able to inspire others to trust in God by sharing what He has done for and in me. Sharing how He has changed me is the least I can do for all that He has done for me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5719. Hi Linda!

    This is just to let you know that I nominated you for the Sunshine Blog Award, which is given to “bloggers who positively and creatively inspire others in the blogosphere.” Please visit the following link to see the post with your nomination. You are not obligated to accept the award…but I hope you do. You deserve it.

    Here’s the link: : http://meshawnsenior.wordpress.com/2012/05/01/ive-been-nominated-for-the-sunshine-blog-award/

    Blessings,
    Meshawn

    Reply

  5721. it’s good to have friends like this that paint images of love on the heart like graffiti…very cool job on the double acrostic as well linda

    Reply

  5722. Friendship- one of the most important things in the world! And you captured it here beautifully in great great form….loved this ….made me think about MY friends and how much they mean to me

    Reply

  5724. Oh thank you Linda, for ministering to us again. I hadn’t heard this one for awhile, and it really blessed me. So blessed that Jesus can know the things we’ve done and love us anyway. God bless you and your excitement for Him . . .and for a band that loves Him too!

    Reply

  5726. Wow Linda! I have never tried a double acrostic . . .you did an amazing job! Loved it! God bless you and your time with friends and family! Yay!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve only done it once before, when I wrote a poem on Community. I couldn’t do it without wordhippo.com where I can do a search for all words that end in a particular letter. 🙂 I’m glad you liked it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5728. I’m so glad you explained the format for a triolet. I’ve always felt a certain rhythm and closure. Simple, but so rich in texture.

    Must be something about writers, but I think of my best stuff after I power off. I write it all down with cryptic abbreviations, and can never decipher it in the morning! ; )

    Reply

    • Linda, There was a great lesson at dVerse Poets Pub on triolets a month or so ago. That’s where I learned about them. I thought of you when I wrote this one just because you had said you liked this form so much.

      I think sometimes God gives us stuff to write after the computer is off so we’ll have to resort to good old pen and paper, and not forget how those things work. 😉 It definitely happens to me a lot, and if I don’t write it down it’s often gone in the morning. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5729. Love this, Linda. It’s so tight and right and says exactly what we need conveyed to us. God bless you as you harbor with Him tonight!

    Reply

    • Deb, One thing I like about this poem is that it seems easy to remember. It’s been playing in my head all week – just what I need conveyed to me by our safe Haven. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5732. This was truly lovely, very nice writing.Sometimes it takes courage to share our fears with others, and allow ourselves to trust in prayer.Thank you.

    Reply

  5733. Oh, I love the triolet. You packed this with meaning and inspiration. Life is hard, but it is harder without Faith. Thank you.

    Reply

  5736. life is surely hard and treacherous…and we were never created to try and make it on our own…we need both each other as well as that higher power…

    Reply

  5737. I’, glad I am not theonly one who thinks of an idea late at night or even in the middle of the night and then forgets – I think God is cooking up an even better piece for later!
    Blessings
    susie

    Reply

  5738. Oh so powerful, Linda. Thank you so much for your music ministry to us, and all that you add to the song. God bless you as you slow down and listen to Him each day!

    Reply

    • Deb, When I think of “music ministry” I think of people who can play instruments (which I can’t) or sing (I’m not very good at that, either). Thanks for reminding me that sharing other people’s music is also a worthwhile ministry. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5739. hi ”how your day;;DOT….But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
    1 Peter 2:9

    Reply

    • Dot, thanks for stopping by and commenting! 🙂 It’s great to have you here. I like your nickname, too. I have an Aunt Dorothy who goes by Dot. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5741. nice…they both give warmth and are beyond powerful…we didn’t have much sun the last weeks though…hope that will change soon

    Reply

  5742. Your wonderful capricious sun shows just how much in the moment you were when writing. I like the way it moves along, just like the excitement of the weather and the day that inspired you. Just lovely… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, We had another beautiful day again today. I even got to wear a yellow flowered sun dress to church, and later this afternoon planted some heliotropes in a pot by my front door. But the forecast calls for rain again later in the week. I’m just so thankful for the sunny days we do get, and for the Son who is with us every day regardless of the weather. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5744. smiles…nice…i am rather fond of both sun and son…we did not get much of the sun here today as it has been raining all day, but did catch the son at church this morning…smiles

    Reply

  5745. Thank you for this beautiful look at the temporary warmth of the sun, and the constant warmth of Jesus! God bless you and all you days with Him!

    Reply

  5746. Such a gentle triolet, and a loving testament of your own faith. I think this type of poem is growing to be my favorite..

    Reply

    • Linda, I think the triolet might be one of my favorite poetry forms, too. It has just the right amount of repetition and lends itself well to Christian poetry. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5747. Wow. They really are a great band. I can see why you’re counting the days! : )

    “It’s the end of the line, time to surrender… pretend that you’re fine, but you’d be lyin’.” A haunting reminder, and Mac Powell’s voice sure made me listen.

    Reply

    • Linda, I’m glad you liked it. I do definitely love Mac’s voice. They have one song called “San Angelo” that I don’t really get. The lyrics themselves don’t speak to me and I can’t quite figure out what it means. But I listen through it anyway because of Mac’s voice. If anyone else was singing it I would just skip it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5751. LInda . . .what a beautiful post on faith, seeing beyond what our eyes ever could. Love the song too! So glad you didn’t let the fact it wasn’t music Monday keep you from sharing it! God bless you as you walk by faith each day, seeing Him! love and prayers!

    Reply

    • Deb, We do serve an awesome God who gives us spiritual sight and faith to see beyond the obvious and visible. This world could really get a person down if they couldn’t see God’s truth in it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5753. Oh we loved this! I’m so glad Third Day is your favorite Christian band. 🙂 That way I get to listen to them here a lot . teehee! God bless you and may we all surrender to Him each moment of the day.

    Reply

    • Deb, My husband asked if the qualifier “Christian” was necessary. “Aren’t they just your favorite band?” he asked. Again I had to answer yes! 🙂 And I’m excited that I get to actually meet them this time before the concert. That will be cool. I’m glad you and Aubrey liked this one. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5754. thank you for sharing Trevor with us! Maybe you can make a sign suggesting he sing this one? haha! So good! God bless you as He shines brightly in and over you!

    Reply

  5755. I am happy I came across this blog. It gives me the assurance that without Jesus, I am empty. He gives me purpose and he keeps me focused. I pray that more people will thirst for HIM and find HIM, or have a desire for HIM and say again, ‘That I may know him and the power of his resurrection’.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment! And also for causing me to go back and reread this post that I wrote almost a year ago. It is good to be reminded that He is our true purpose in this life, to know Him and the power of His resurrection, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5757. I’m so thankful for the music we get to listen to, too. This is beautiful, Linda. Something so special about the scripture being put to song. God bless you and thank you for ministering to us today, in this beautiful way!

    Reply

    • Deb, Trevor Morgan has another song on his CD “The Blessed and the Broken” that is the first half of John 1. It is so beautiful! And that is one of my favorite books of the Bible. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5758. I think it was Rembrandt who painted himself into his painting of the crucifixion, identifying that he was also responsible for Jesus’ death.
    I was there too. I was responsible, but I am forgiven. I am restored and I praise my great Redeemer.
    What an amazing Saviour!
    What an amazing God!

    Reply

    • Your comment reminded me of this verse in the song “O Come and Mourn with Me a While”:

      O break, O break hard heart of mine
      My weak self-love and guilty pride
      His Pilate and His Judas were
      Jesus our Lord is Crucified

      What an amazing Savior, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5759. For some reason I thought of a passage in Ecclesiastes:

    For in wisdom is much grief:
    And he that increases his knowledge
    Increases his sorrow.

    Reply

  5760. Thank you , Linda, for explaining it in a really understandable way! 🙂 You are a great communicator and I keep praying for opportunities to open up for you to speak and write about Jesus even more! God bless you!

    Reply

  5761. I find it mind-boggling that anyone could think that grown men could mistake a piece of cloth for a man. I mean…they talked to him, for goodness sake! Did a piece of cloth show up on the beach cooking fish??? Gah!!

    Oh, and the poem is awesome!! 🙂

    Reply

    • Jeff, I was a bit aghast at the segment myself – could hardly believe I was hearing it right – but that’s what he said. It was fodder for a pretty good poem, though. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5762. Who is this Jesus?
    Called King of the Jews
    The One who brings Good News
    He has become my writing muse

    That is so loving and so clever. I pray tonight that He would be my muse, too. The comment about the shroud with the face on it just goes to show that you can’t always trust an expert. Hi ho. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I think that is my favorite stanza, too. 🙂 I feel so blessed that He helps me write. I know He is definitely your muse, too, helping you to share Miranda’s story of redemption with us all. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5766. Linda, this was so good for the Monday after Easter! Thank you for our Third Day song!! I’ve loved hearing “Lift Up Your Face” that they play on the radio right now. (not sure if that’s the title or not!) God bless you through all of this amazing journey with Jesus!

    Reply

    • That is a good one, too. But my favorite Third Day song of all time is “Thief.” I’m looking forward to hearing the new album they are currently working on. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5768. Hi Linda,
    I am a relatively new blogger, and am looking around trying to learn from others who are blogging about faith in Jesus Christ.
    May the Lord continue to bless your efforts here!
    In Christ,
    Steve Fuller

    Reply

    • Steve, Thanks for stopping by. I hope you found something useful here. My goal is to provide encouragement to believers, wisdom to unbelievers, and to glorify God in the process. I will check out your blog when I get a chance. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5769. I’ve thought about those women, too.

    “At this time, the testimony of women was of no value. But God valued their witness and their testimony about this awesome event.”

    It’s a blessing to know He hears our testimony (and fears, and questions, and gratitude). For God so loved the world, even the women, that He gave His only Son…

    Thank you for blessing me with your words today.

    Reply

    • Linda, I can’t take credit for being the first to think of how unconventional it was for the women to be the first to witness the resurrection. I think I first read the idea in Lee Strobel’s “The Case for Christ.” It makes me smile to think of how God does things so differently than we think He should. His ways are not our ways, and I think that is a good thing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5770. Thanks for sharing Linda 🙂

    I just scheduled tomorrow’s post and smiled as I noticed your header 😉

    Christ is risen! What a wonderful message of hope and salvation… And to think that He allowed those with ‘least credibility’ to get the message first.

    “This reminds me that He believes my testimony and witness of His glory is important, too.”
    I’m glad they did not keep the story to themselves. We too have a mandate to share Him with others. Christ is risen indeed!

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  5778. I guess in the end all anyone can truly count on is what they believe is right, even Jesus. He showed us how to hold on in the face of abandonment.

    Reply

  5779. Words from an old hymn that came to mind as I read –
    “Never a trial that He is not there:
    Never a burden that He does not share”

    And your words – “We were not made for self-reliance. We were made to rely on God.”

    I am sure that, like me, you can look back on previous troubles and praise God for them, because God used them “grow” us. He never sends the trouble, but He uses it for His own purpose: that of teaching us to trust Him and maturing us more and more into Christlikeness.

    What an amazing God!

    Reply

  5780. oh i sometimes feel like peter…and what i love most is that jesus knows about his weakness and loves and trusts him anyway…isn’t that way awesome..

    Reply

  5782. Wonderful consideration, Linda.

    It can be far too easy sometimes to twist the passages regarding mercy and grace to the point that it appears God no longer has a “standard” by which we can measure right and wrong.
    On the other hand, I’ve noticed I can sometimes focus so intensely on the need for holiness that the beauty of Christ’s substitution and costliness of His sacrifice begins to fade into the background behind the gaudy, neon “ME and MY Accomplishments (or failures)” sign. It’s interesting how either extreme is still only half-truth and places a self-styled concept of righteousness at the center.

    Reply

  5783. “Through Christ we can do ALL things!” I always look at the various trials we face as God carving us out into more of His image and increasing our faith and trust in Him.

    Reply

  5785. I like the way your thoughts flow on from an experience in the supermarket. This is the way Jesus taught – from life around Him.

    How true that so many Scriptures are quoted out of context or whole philosophies are based on one verse without consideration of the whole.
    This is why we must FEED on His Word, allowing the Holy Spirit to enlighten us.

    Thanks Linda for the reminder.

    Reply

  5786. No matter where we are, what we are doing, or what is happening around us, we can praise our great God with fullness of heart. He alone is worthy.
    What an amazing God!

    Reply

  5787. The verse from Jeremiah 29 always runs over me like cool water. Seeking HIm trumps all the rest.

    This is such a great topic because of the way Biblical ‘truth” plays out in the media. The politcal season will be selling it’s half truths day and night. Without a caring stranger to unscramble the ingredients on the label, how will anyone ever know the whole truth?

    All so timely… thank you.

    Reply

  5788. “Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgement”(John 7:24).
    Thank you Linda for sharing such a truth:)

    Reply

  5789. My 15 year old son is a Bronie too. It does take a lot of courage to admit to liking a cartoon aimed at 8 year old girls. If your son has other interests too, I see no harm in this. It makes him happy and isn’t that what we want for our kids?

    Reply

  5791. I skipped dinner tonight… busy time… and your Walnut Chicken Salad look wonderfully delicious. Would they care at the grocery store if I stopped by in my pajamas for a jar of Miracle Whip? : )

    Reply

  5799. Truly astounding. These are all clever and beautiful… the rhyming alone is a treat. I’m glad you mentioned Satan. I don’t think we talk about him enough, What you wrote is so true, but I think alot of Believers don’t want to face it. Just turn on FOX News to see that it’s true.

    Interesting that even your limericks come in threes! : )

    Reply

  5800. I often wonder if we haven’t been given more of these unreported, lazed, enjoyable, fulfilling moments in our life than critical ones of heartstopping anxiety? I think in times like your day and mine today we taste a bit of paradise, don’t you? Well written. I was there.

    Reply

    • Gay, I think sometimes we just fail to notice these moments, maybe take them for granted. I was blessed to stop and consider this moment today and to be able to share it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5801. What a beautiful thing to be thankful for . .. a great reminder of the preciousness of this moment with Him! Great poem too! God bless you and all the moments He brings!

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  5805. ah, these lovely life moments – how rewarding when we allow ourselves fully to savour each one, as you’ve done here

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  5806. This is just what it is: lovely.
    A moment to savour, and for us to savour as well.
    Glorious reality, no strings attached.
    Thank you.

    Reply

    • Hannah, Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. 🙂 I truly needed a moment like this this week and was happy for the dVerse prompt that made me savor it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5808. I’m giving these a standing ovation and two thumbs up and 5 star ratings! He certainly had you on a roll with these and I loved them all! God bless you, Linda, God’s poet laureate!

    Reply

  5809. Thankfully, the questions in the last paragraph are answered with a resounding ‘NO’ but they sure do bring back memories of when the answer was ‘Yes, yes, yes, and even worse than that’

    Hopeless? Definitely!
    Out of second chances? What were they? There was NO chance, no hope.
    Shame? Guilt? No escape? Not for me!

    B – U – T . . . . . What a beautiful word! “But God” even when I was so hopeless, so evil, so unworthy, so unthinking of Him – God called me to Himself. He cleansed me with the blood of Christ. He adopted me into His own family. He provided my every need.

    Now, 53 years later, I say –
    What an amazing Saviour!
    What an amazing Father God!
    What an abundant life He gives!

    Reply

  5811. This is just great! What a creative way to celebrate the most important “joke” of :)all. Thanks for reading and responding to my post. And blessed Lent/Easter season to you.

    Reply

  5812. Wonderful, Linda!

    Thanks for sharing 🙂

    I think you have discovered another new side of you!

    I Iike them all but the second one sticks in my head 🙂

    P.S. should we be hopeful that you will write more? 🙂

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  5813. Ooh, it’s been a while since I’ve stumbled upon a triolet.
    I really liked this one. Made me smile.
    There are surprisingly many people who need some extra love in their lives.
    Nice work =)

    Reply

    • A few weeks ago the FormForAll lesson at dVerse Poets Pub was on triolets, and quite a few people wrote one and linked there. You can check it out here: FormForAll – Triolets. I have also posted 3 other triolets over the past few weeks. I really like the form. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5815. Loved this Linda! I’m so blessed you can get these poems written with all you are doing. God bless you as you pour out for others, in His love!

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  5817. I love the comparison of Christ’s love to a watering can full of water. That visual will stay with me well beyond this post.

    Also, thanks for sharing the writing process as it unfolds in your heart and on the page. I learn from that, too. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I so glad you said you like to read about my writing process. Sometimes I grapple with whether to include it or just post the poem. I tend to end up deciding to include it and it’s good to know someone likes to read that part. 🙂

      In Colie’s sermon, she also talked about how we are all different types of vessels for God’s love. Some are like stationary sprinklers, some are like those garden hoses that ooze water out all the way along, others are like a watering can, and some are like a power hose. We don’t need to try to be like some other vessel, but let God’s love pour or ooze or sprinkle out in just the way He made us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Kellie, Yes, it was good to get to the point of feeling this poem was done. Though as I’m sure you have experienced, it wasn’t long before the pen is back in my hand to write something else. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5829. Thanks for the reminder, Linda

    The debt has been paid and paid in full!

    Thanks for adding to my song library. This is a new one for me 🙂 Looking forward to more Third Day. Wish I could make it to the concert!

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  5830. I can’t listen to the song right now . . .I will be back! You know I’m going to love it though, right? And the whole post made me cry. So beautiful is He. God bless you and all that He has done for you! love and prayers for your week!

    Reply

  5831. This is a wonderful post and just perfect for me right now! 🙂 Just a confirmation from Him after I went through a kind of challenging situation. I didn’t think I wasn’t loved by Him in it all, but forgot to focus on Him and these 4 things during the trial time. Great tools for getting through a bad day!!! God bless you as you share His truth tools with us! Love and prayers for your week!

    Reply

  5835. Never tried scooping it. We have always cooled it in a container so when you knock it out on a cutting board you can slice off a patty. Ideally the container shape leaves you with spatula sized pieces. You can slice them thick or thin depending on your preference. The thin ones are all crunch and the thick ones have a soft center. This works with any hot cereal, cream of wheat is my favorite. When I was a kid, you knew if you were having oatmeal that morning you got fried mush the next. I always liked it fried the best.

    Reply

    • Matt, What a cool childhood memory! Thank you for stopping by and sharing it here. The person who gave me this recipe actually did as you do, and cut off slices from a roll dumped from the container. I think that is the better way to do it if you are making it for a lot of people. I modified it to the “scoop” method because I was only cooking it for me each morning. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5836. Oh you are on a roll now, Linda! Loved these! You make it look so easy, but it’s not! God bless you and all that He and you write! love and prayers for a good Sunday!

    Reply

    • Deb, It seems like the things I think I can’t do (like write a limerick) are the things that God chooses to do through me to show that I can be so much more in Christ! He’s kind of awesome like that. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5837. How true that is about dogs… eager to please, making us smile.

    I have a theory that God created the dogs as a gift to his people… created on the same day as humans and with endless variety, an unmatched way of calming us, and for Adam, the joy of naming the dogs and more.

    I hope it’s okay if I add little ball-chasing Roman to my doggie prayer list, where I pray every night that God would keep them safe from harm, free of sickness and disease, and bless us with a long life of shared happiness.

    I pray for about a dozen dogs, couldn’t be happier to do it. : )

    Such silliness, you and Roman. A great poem! : )

    Reply

  5838. You found a rhyme for “ephod”? Are you kidding me? Ha ha.

    Anything about dogs and ball-throwing touches my heart. These are both terrific!

    Reply

    • Linda, This comment made me laugh! As long as I’m pronouncing it right, I guess I did find a rhyme for ephod. 😉 The last line was definitely the hardest.

      I know what you mean about dogs and ball throwing. Have you ever read my poem My Little Dog and His Ball? It has made it into my top posts that are listed on the right side of the blog. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Madeleine, Thanks for inviting me to the limerick-off! It was fun. When I wrote my limerick there I didn’t realize you were also a “recovering” lawyer. I had to laugh when I saw that on your bio page because that’s what I call myself, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5840. A+++ Linda. I’ve tried this a million times and have never even come close!
    Yours is so much warmer and sweet than the other lymerics loitering out there.

    Your talent is so broad, and I like knowing it’s a gift from Him. I’m grateful that we can bless each other with our words… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, You are so sweet! This was actually the first time I ever wrote a limerick – and I have two more I’m going to post that came to mind later last night. 🙂 I think you will like them, too. There are definitely some less then wholesome limericks “loitering” out there. But it is such a fun form of poetry – it’s fun to write some clean ones. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • If you become the Limerick Queen, you could be trapped in this genre forever! The limericks for Saturday morning clicked along beautifully!

      • Linda, I lack the consistency necessary to be trapped in a particular genre. In this case I guess that’s a good thing. 😉 Peace, Linda

  5841. Thank you, Linda! Question – do you have to turn the asparagus over at all, as it’s grilling? God bless you and thank you for sharing your recipes with us! love and prayers!

    Reply

  5843. What a sweet story you tell
    At his hobby I wouldn’t yell
    For though he likes ponies
    He still has cronies
    And for that it’s just as well

    Reply

  5848. Ha I liked this and the comments. It’s the truth the pendulum swings. My children though my husband and I were “sort of hippies” (we too liked rock and roll but not much else hippy..he was after all a professor of Elec. Engrg.) but they became very conservative, and very upright. Funny isn’t it. But I like the message in this.

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  5851. You pulled off your first limerick very well, with good rhyme and almost perfect meter.

    It would be perfect meter if you added “both” to the beginning of line 2 and replaced “aren’t” with “ain’t.” (Aren’t is a two syllable word for many, if not most, people.)

    I hope you’ll give my weekly Limerick-Off challenges a try.

    Reply

    • Madeleine, Thanks for the tips. I edited it to add “And” instead of “Both” (since there are oddly more than 2 of them) to the beginning of line 2. But I just couldn’t change aren’t to ain’t. Partly because it makes me giggle that someone would thing aren’t is a two syllable word. 🙂 I’ll check out your limerick off – sounds fun. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5852. Am I first? Never been first on any comment in four years!

    Like your ‘pony and phony’
    AND Friendship and Love, of course!
    Thank you.

    Reply

    • Steve, Sorry but Brian beat you to the #1 spot. I’m glad you stopped by, though. 🙂 What this limerick really needs is a picture of my son in his “Brony” t-shirt. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Brian, I think he likes it in part because as a teen he has to like something his parents don’t. And since we like the hard rock music he listens to, even some of the heavy metal, what’s he got left to show his rebellion? Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I just love all of this! Great limerick, great topic, great family! I am giggling about ‘what’s he got left to show his rebellion”. haha! Maybe more parents should try this! Love you and God bless you and all the little ponies and brave bronies!

      • Deb, I like that – “brave bronies!” It does take courage to like what he likes even if others don’t agree. 🙂 And I’m glad I could make you giggle! 😉 Peace, Linda

  5854. Oh my Linda . .. this was wonderful!!!! Couldn’t be any better! So thankful for Him and all He is in our lives . . .and thankful for you and how He blesses us through you! love and prayers!

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  5855. “Jesus came to find the lost”… and there are a bunch of ’em still out there. I really like the way this post reaches out to everyone, regardless of where their lives have been… (like an old-fashioned Baptist alter call). ; )

    Fwiw… your passion for Chrstian music has rubbed off, and now when I turn on Moody Radio I actually know some of the songs, can sing some of the lyrics, and never change the dial. Thanks for such a fun and unexpected gift at your blog. ; )

    Reply

    • Linda, I don’t know what I’d do if there wasn’t so much good Christian music available these days. And to have encouraged you to listen and enjoy it as well makes all my efforts at sharing it worthwhile. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5860. yep..the promise of spring…can be seen in so many different things around us…honestly…saw yesterday the first magnolia tree blooming and started to cry..the promise of spring…

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  5861. I didn’t know this one, Linda, but I loved it. They have a really great ministry of songs that reach out to us right where we are. So encouraging and fills us with hope! God bless you as you continue to share Him through His Word and songs and poems! love and prayers!

    Reply

    • Deb, I knew you would like this one! I’ve been listening to this CD the past few days and I think there are at least 2 more from it that I want to share. (Actually, I like them all, but there are only so many Mondays.) Peace, Linda

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  5862. Oh Linda . . .this is sure a precious truth. One that I have unknowingly used by His design with loved ones. Thank you for the reminder that it is indeed a great tool of His, so that I keep it out and use it all the time. God bless you and yours as you celebrate Pr. Dave!

    Reply

    • Deb, You seem to me one for whom sharing your gratitude comes naturally – or maybe that’s supernaturally 😉 . Thank you for the blessing on our celebration. We had a great service and reception! I am so grateful for our pastor, his family, and our whole church community. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5863. Thank you, Linda

    Lately I seem to have a ‘burden’ to spend time with my mom. I find myself missing her at odd moments, and when I call, I find she had been thinking of me in that moment too…. His connections are perfect.

    Thank you for this post today. Of all the things that we are given, family brings a different level of comfort and love and peace that does defy logic… Thank you for reminding me how blessed I am.

    Grateful
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, What a blessing you have to be able to spend time with your mom – I miss mine so much. But I know what you mean about that burden or desire to spend time with family. I’ve been feeling that way about my sister and am trying to figure out how I can get away to go visit her soon. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5864. Thanks for such a beautiful reminder of the blessing of family, be it biological or Christian. 🙂 Praying with you for those connections to be cherished and appreciated. God bless you and your dear family! Also prayers for your sis!

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  5866. I loved this post. It is so true. Some people like to use the phrase “Kindred Spirits”. I am reminded of this quote:

    “Yes. Cornelia divides all the folks in the world into two kinds– the race that knows Joseph and the race that don’t.” – Captain Jim-Anne’s House of Dreams

    Reply

  5867. Being somewhat ignorant of forms of poetry, I had never heard of a triolet until your previous entry that included one. I have thoroughly enjoyed them (I must have missed one somewhere…I’ll have to backtrack).

    Reply

    • Jeff, I didn’t know what a triolet was until the lesson posted at dVerse Poets Pub. 🙂 But I love poetry and am always up for trying something new. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5869. Wonderful Linda! I love all that you pack into this little form!
    We need love – God is love! There you go! 🙂 God bless you and your writing for Him!

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  5872. This reminds me of the message I heard last night at revival service. “Your troops will be willing on your day of battle”(Psalms 110:3). We need to always offer ourselves as dedicated warriors for His service. So we can be ready at all times to share with other the love of Christ. Weather it’s on a death bed or in our every day walk of life. Thanks Linda for this beautiful message.

    Reply

  5873. Linda, while I would love for some I know to know Him now . . .I am so praying that they DO have death bed conversions! How wonderful that would be. It might take that point in their lives, for them to finally hear what He is trying to tell them . .. that He loves them and wants them with Him forever.
    God bless you as you tell others there is grace enough for all! love and prayers!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love that – “there is grace enough for all!” There truly is! I’m praying for some who might have to have death bed conversions, too. There is always hope where there is Jesus. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5874. Another one from you that has me in tears. He is sure working through you, beautiful Linda. Thank you for writing and sharing. God bless you as you share His love and grace!

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  5875. Another triolet! Excellent work!

    I’ve also learned something new from your work…. The triolet seems to be amazingly suited to ecclesiastical or religious poetry. The refrains don’t seem forced, but natural, as if they were responses of the congregation to the prayers of the clergy. I’m going to have to try this myself. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Thank you! I am just so excited to have learned of this form from your great lesson at dVerse. Maybe the reason I like this form so much is because it is suited to religious poetry, which I write a lot of. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks! I agree. Humans seem to all want to make their own God, or to recast God in their own image, instead of asking Him to make us more like Him. Thankfully, He gives us grace to fill in the gaps. Peace, Linda

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  5883. Thanks for sharing this, Linda.

    At church for the next couple months we’ll be covering the book of Daniel, and it’s very inspiring how Godly he was, how he stood up for what he believed, as did Jesus.

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  5884. I can’t argue at all with your handling of this form. For me the second stanza makes a judgement that is somewhat alienating, i.e. that those who live by law or their own brand of faith have fallen out of favor with God. What God worth its salt would reject some and love others? therein lies the rub…. xxxj I’m at http://parolavivace.blogspot.com

    Reply

    • Jenne, Thanks for commenting. You are certainly entitled to your perspective. I put this poem together based solely on Bible verses (with slight tweaking to fit the form and meter). It is, for me, truth because it is God’s word. He is God and because He sees into the hearts of humans I trust in His ability to judge justly. But He forces none to agree with Him. It is not His choice to reject any, but our choice of whether to accept Him as He is or go our own way. He loves all but not all love Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5886. One of the thoughts you expressed here . . . “I think sometimes those who have followed the rules as best they could all their lives, who have been brought up in a Christian home and always known the Lord, can feel like it is unfair for those who come to faith late to receive the same exact gift of grace from God” . . . was used in an ‘argument’ the other week when talking with an unbeliever.

    She knew a man who had been far from good-living, who had probably never done anything good in his life, but became a Christian and showed a changed life, only a short time before he died. She felt this was most unfair of God. She said I should object, because I had served God for decades and would receive the same reward as he did.

    I stunned her when I said I felt sorry that he had been deprived of the absolute joy of serving God for so many years; that he had missed out on the blessings of knowing the reality of the Lord’s presence guiding each step of his way.

    I was then able to tell her about HOW the punishment had already been endured and about how super-abundant the new life in Christ was by comparison with the old.

    What amazing grace!
    What an awesome Father God!
    What an amazing Saviour!

    Reply

    • I remembered the “prodigal son”. The other brother who is with the father all along, was self righteous, who “served” his father to try “earning” the things that are his already.

      oh such an amazing comment..

      – grace and peace

      Reply

  5887. This song is so good . . caught up in yourself. yep. That happens way too much! Thanking Him for mercy and grace today! God bless you as you go to your small group tonight!

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  5890. another great post!

    Mercy is us not getting what we deserve (punishment)
    Grace is giving us what we do not deserve(blessings)

    Grace is the gospel! this is the true gospel..

    The Rabbi and the Imam was right.
    “We believe above all else that God is just and that people will get what they deserve.”

    All punishment for man has fell upon Jesus at the cross!
    the righteous fury, indignation and wrath of God fell
    upon His son Jesus.

    The world, being – encompasses all man’s sin was carried on Jesus
    God’s fire consume Jesus when He became sin.

    God is righteous in making the sinner righteous.
    God is a righteous Judge, who judged all our sin at the cross.

    so that now, God cannot Judge our sins anymore!

    awesome truths!

    – grace and peace

    Reply

  5891. wow.. I am lovin’ this post

    without faith, everything else is religion. that includes
    – giving one’s life to/for God
    – giving all the wealth to the poor
    – becoming a missionary
    – being nailed at the cross upside down

    if without faith, it does not matter.
    thank you so much for this post…

    “without faith it is impossible to please God”
    “anything done without faith is sin”

    “Have Ye The Faith OF GOD”
    – Mark 11:22

    – grace and peace

    Reply

  5892. I so love that grace is not fair! I can see a poem coming up about this, from you. 🙂 God bless you, Linda, as you show others His grace. I’m so thankful for you sharing your Sunday sermon messages with us! 🙂

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  5893. Happy Birthday to your son, Linda–and how nice to write a poem for him. More and more, I’m doing that for gifts to special people–they seem to like it. Poems don’t spoil if not refrigerated, don’t shatter if dropped, don’t wear out–unless of course they accidentally go through the laundry! God bless you.

    Reply

  5894. I saw that it was your son’s birthday on FB. I hope it was a happy day!

    Along with your inspired writing and faith, I admire your academic prowess. I forgot about those 17 syllables long ago…enjoyed those very much. ; )

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  5897. Linda, thank you for sharing your adventures in this with us! I haven’t tried hummus . . .didn’t really know what it was. So, now I do! And finding crackers you could eat . . .yay! That it is filling is important too. I love how you are meeting this challenge and finding what you can do . . .and then letting us know too! How have you been feeling? love and prayers!

    Reply

  5898. How thankful we are that we live by faith, because if we had to live by sight, we would be doomed. There is so much camouflaged evil around.
    How thankful we are that we are saved by grace, because if it depended on us we would be doomed.

    What an amazing God!

    Reply

    • Why would that not be alright to say on any day? I’m glad you liked it. This was definitely a God-inspired poem (especially since most of it is pulled from scripture, which is always lovely and wonderful). 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5901. Linda,

    What a “small world” the blogosphere is…find some of your work on another site the other day—really liked it. Didn’t know you were also involved with dverse…my wife is pretty active there as well.

    Another great write! I gave this a go as well, so come check it out when you get a chance.

    Reply

    • The blogosphere is indeed a small world for how far flung it’s inhabitants are! I will definitely come check out your triolet. What a fun form this was! Peace, Linda

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  5906. Linda, so much to love in this! I love the poem itself. And then I love that this is what you were working on and how He then brought you to a new form to put it with and here we go! 🙂 so I guess what I’m saying is that I love your poetry and then I love how He is bringing it forth in your life. God bless you as you keep your pen ready for Him!

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  5909. How true! There is no way we could ever repay all that our great God has done for us and is still doing for us. Our grateful hearts respond by praising Him and following His will for us, but it can never repay – and He does not seek recompence. He seeks our praise and we give it wholeheartedly.

    Reply

  5910. I love how He gives you these poems! This one just covers so much, what a blessing. And the ending . . .just perfect. We can’t repay, but we love Him and want to give Him something too . . . .ourselves. Thank you for letting Him write poems through you! God bless you and hug you for me today!

    Reply

    • Theresa, The poems like this that come to me during prayer time always seem to be the best. 🙂 I worked for hours last night trying to put together a “found poem” on faith using snippets of scripture and never got it done. I wrote this in about 5 minutes. Gotta love the ideas that come from the Lord! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5912. “There is no way
    I could ever repay
    But my life I give to you”
    What occurred to me after some time spent in fellowship with our God, is, I have to make Him my Lord before He can be my Savior. You are so right, our lives are to be lived for Him.
    Thanks Richard.

    Reply

    • Richard, Thanks for the nice comment. For me, it was when I realized the magnitude of His being my savior and my need for Him as such that I was able to call Him Lord. I agree that our lives are meant to be lived for Him and with Him. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5913. Linda . . .I thought your example was wonderful! Having you share that really helps me get my head around what it looks like in action. God Bless you! And I loved the toolbox analogy too. It reminds me of using what I have already, for Him.
    love and prayers for a faith in action day!

    Reply

    • Deb, The great thing about the toolbox analogy is that it reminds me to take the tools out of the box and use them. They aren’t much good if you keep them stashed away! 🙂 Thanks for your prayers, which are always appreciated. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5914. I love the Holy Spirit, and the way He helps us in our daily lives. Those Bible heroes are such an inspiration… I need to pray for courage to be that way, too.

    I never knew about your legal publication work. Going by your writing, that had to be a perfect fit. I’ll never be Abraham or Noah, but I can do much better. An inspiring post… thanks. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, The lesson I learn from these Bible heroes is that I need to pray for more faith, stronger faith! Romans 1:5 says that obedience comes from faith. It is wonderful that the Holy Spirit gives us the gift of faith.

      As for my job, unfortunately I don’t get to write much. I did at my old the managing editor job, but now I spend my time with scheduling, planning, and personnel issues. Not nearly enough writing, which is in part why I blog. 🙂 I do like my job, though, and the oganization I work for is a good one. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5915. This is a great post. I love the idea of a “Christian toolbox” and actually have scheduled someone to come and speak about this very idea to a group of teenagers in the near future.

    This was an exceptionally poignant paragraph IMO:

    “In each example, faith was not the end of the story. In each example, faith led to obedience to God’s call. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Joshua all stepped out in faith and did exactly what God asked of them even if it seemed crazy.”

    Reply

    • R.M., Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a thoughtful and nice comment! I like the Christian toolbox idea, too. Our pastor has actually brought in his real toolbox (which it is quite obvious he does not use on a regular basis) 😉 and used specific tools to illustrate various points. He compared the tool of faith to the studfinder – we don’t know how it works to find something that we can’t see, but it does. If you are interested in listening to this sermon series, they are being posted to our church website at http://www.cofaith.net. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5916. Linda… wow, I like the way you brought so many related passages together. It’s hard to evaluate the fruit without judging the bearer. And it’s really hard to bear good fruit all the time. So many challenges, so much grace… thanks. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I think even the best of fruit trees has to endure some winter months when there is no fruit at all. But we must guard against the bad fruit, at least I know I do, by God’s grace. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5917. Just “accidentally” found your blog (though nothing is ever really an “accident”–and love your writing! Thank you! Right on and very helpful.
    Your blog came up when I was reading your thoughts on praying on our knees, with quotes by C S Lewis (one of my favorites.)

    I just finished reading your Sept 14, 2011 entry on “Pride” and I agree–with maybe a little different take on several points. We lived in Thailand for seven years and became very aware of the Oriental value of “saving face,” which can be “bad” or “good” depending on the context. It can be bad when it leads to dishonesty or it can be good when you are trying to encourage someone who feels defeated. So the song line “we’ll guard each one’s dignity and save each one’s pride” MAYBE could be in this sense: when talking to an abused, poor person you would never say (or more likely, imply), “You are worthless and have nothing to teach me.” But to protect their dignity (and maybe pride?), you might say, “You are a child of the King and He loves you and has given you valuable talents.” ??? What do you think? Maybe I’m slicing and dicing words too much.

    My other comment is about your statement: “pride is the basis of all other sins”–which I agree with. Maybe I would amplify it a bit by adding INDEPENDENCE and SELF-ishness to PRIDE as the sources of all other sin. When Adam and Eve sinned (and us as well), the thought process seems to run: “God says ‘this’ but I don’t have to depend on what He says or do what He says, my way is just as valid as His. I’m proud of my ability to choose, all by myself–so I independently choose ‘that’.” In America, we are so eager to foster “independence” in our children–which is good TO A POINT. Maybe we’ve just overdone it.

    Enjoy your blog and I’ll be back. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Jo, Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice, thoughtful comment. I can definitely see your point about an alternative take on pride and how the line of the song could be referring to pride more as a synonym for dignity. We should definitely encourage others and guard their dignity. I think part of the reason I wrote this post is because I see the other kind of pride – the “I don’t need God to tell me what is right and wrong, or to help me with anything, I’ll do it myself” kind of pride – being lauded in our society. I do agree we have, in this country, taken the independence thing a bit too far.

      I look forward to more insightful comments from you in the future. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5918. This had me in tears, Linda . .. I hadn’t heard it before. Thank you so much as you keep us focused on Him leading up to Easter. (Well, you do it all the time, actually!) God bless you as you remember today! love and prayers!

    Reply

    • Deb, You always have something so encouraging to say! I want to always help others focus on Jesus and I appreciate you reminding me that I am (for the most part) succeeding in that endeavor, by His grace and strength. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5920. Excellent post Linda, and quite challenging. “But it is important to remember that it is only by the grace of God that we are able to treat the one whose bad fruit seems to plague our lives with love.” Sometimes I forget. And then I become exhausted from trying to love them in my own strength. Thanks for the reminder!

    Reply

  5923. I love soup, Linda–and I make vegetable beef soup a lot, though I call it Minestrone and add Italian seasonings. Last time I cut up London Broil and that was good–sometimes I’ll put in large pasta shells, but I really love barley. And I have to have cabbage!! God bless you this week!

    Reply

    • Caddo, I was tempted to make this a minestrone, but that requires putting in the pasta and I am currently on both a dairy free and a wheat free diet, so no pasta for me. 🙂 I came up with this recipe on the fly based on what was in the fridge and cupboard. I used to like cabbage when I was a kid, but I’m not a fan of it now. But I may have to try barley. I’ve never used that in soup. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5924. This is tough stuff, Linda . . .but important. Thank you and praying now for His help to love those that make it hard for me to love them . . whether they realize that or not. God bless you and the closeness of your walk with Him.

    Reply

    • Deb, I do think that sometimes the difficult people don’t realize how difficult they are. They can be blinded to the evil in their own hearts. Praying God reveals His grace through you to the difficult ones in your life. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5925. Our life as a Christian means always seeing others through the eyes of God and extending His wonderful grace. We are taught to love the sinner but hate the sin. And, yes, love our enemies meaning be kind to them regardless of what they have done for us and allow God to go to work on their hearts.

    Great post! Have a wonderful weekend!
    April

    Reply

    • April, These lessons that are for me are sometimes the hardest – and the easiest – to write about. I had no idea where this was going when I started writing, but God reminded me along the way of what I needed to remember. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Yes, I have the same experiences in my writings at times…goes to show that we are only an empty vessel that we must allow God to fill us with His words to share.
        Have a wonderful week!
        Blessings,
        april

  5926. Thank you bunches! It is cold and windy today . .rainy. A good vegetable beef soup day! 🙂 (only by hubby is gone, so will wait til he gets back to try it on him!) God bless you and all His goodness that you share!

    Reply

    • Deb, It is cold and rainy here, and this was delicious leftover as my lunch, too! I think I put in too many peas and not enough corn, but there’s room for adjustment next time. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5927. Much is spoken of the physical pain of crucifixion. There is no doubt of the agony that Christ endured physically, but I believe the greatest agony of all was spiritual.

    How could the sinless, perfect, Son of God, bear to become sin?
    Separated from His Father for the first time in all eternity, He accepted the ‘cup of wrath’ as the Father poured our His wrath on MY sin in Him. Because of Him I no longer face the wrath of God, but am ‘accepted’.

    Thankful? Yes, and so much more . . .

    What an amazing God!

    Reply

    • I do think people tend to focus on the physical agony of the cross, but I do not believe that is the cup Jesus sought to avoid (if only it was the Father’s will). It was that separation – which happened only because the Father could not look upon such great sin – that caused Jesus to cry out “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” All so you and I would never be forsaken. What an amazing God, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • sounds great! Please keep us in your prayers tonight and all through the day tomorrow. Between 2 and 6 PM a series of strong storms are to come our way. The National Weather Service is saying they will be explosive and will give little warning time.

        Also, keep my husband, Jim and I in prayer. We have been battling an upper respiratory infection all week. We need to get better. We leave on a big trip with our son and his wife a week from tomorrow.

        I continue to pray for you and ask God’s blessings upon you.
        Blessings,
        April

  5929. Even if I am right and he is wrong, my attitude can be wrong – and that is just as bad. Pride was the first sin (committed first by Lucifer, then by Eve, and then by everyone, because pride is the basis of all sin)

    I praise God for the totality of His forgiveness.

    What an amazing God!

    Reply

    • Very good point – I may be right but I still am called to forgive and be merciful. If my attitude is unforgiving, it means I’m not trusting God to take care of the situation and bring justice where only He can. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5930. “Each new day, pride says I’m right…”

    So destructive. Will you ever stop? Will I? Thank you for having the courage to put it out there, Linda. Makes my think and reconsider…

    Reply

    • Linda, It will only be by God’s grace that I can let pride go and humility take over. I do believe it’s possible for both of us, but not in our own power. We must cling to our faithful God and trust He knows what is best. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5931. I can feel this one, Linda. Especially the “I am right and he is wrong.” God bless you, beautiful lady, as you write what we need to read! love and prayers! So thankful for forgiveness!

    Reply

    • Deb, As Claudia said, we do so often think we are right. Yet so often we are not. I am so thankful for forgiveness, too, so much so that it makes me want to learn how to forgive. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5934. Another great blog.
    We need more zombies! – dead to sins, dead to the power of satan – dead to worldly temptations.
    And we also need more ‘made alive’ zombies – ones who join in the active battle, who submit to God and resist the devil, ones who fight against the powers of darkness of this world, ones who show forth the love and light of the Lord – all, of course in the name and power of the Lord and for His glory.

    Reply

  5935. >> “the world tells us that a certain behavior is okay, or even beneficial”
    So true! The world tells us homosexual behaviour, ‘gay’ marriage, abortion etc are all OK and must be accepted, and, in fact we are committing a punishable offence if we show discrimination.

    May we keep our hearts and minds and will attuned to Holy Spirit to recognise sin in all its disguises and to resist it.

    Reply

  5936. This was just perfect, Linda! 🙂 I hadn’t heard this one by Audio Adrenaline! I’m hoping that title brings in some extra viewers. God bless you, the best kind of zombie, alive in Him!

    Reply

  5938. Linda, this is great and especially meaningful to me as, recently I had just such an opportunity to choose. My feelings got hurt by someone whom I know loves me to pieces, and would never deliberately wound me. Maybe that made it easier to not be mad, but acknowledge my hurt feelings (sad) to God as I told Him, “of course I forgive her!” Before long, the whole silly matter was over and forgotten. This is really an excellent post–thanks so much, Sister!! Have a blessed day.

    Reply

    • Caddo, This seems to be a lifelong struggle for me. And the more I know the person loves me it seems the harder it is to not choose mad instead of sad, because it seems like they ought to know that what they are doing hurts. But I am so glad that this resonated with you, and I know just working through it by writing helps God to change my heart and to let Him be in control. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5939. Oh Linda–I am Sooo hungry I can barely type!! That chicken sounds so good I can smell it from here!!! Deb’s idea of the Caesar dressing marinade sounds really good too! Bless you all.

    Reply

    • Caddo, I am so blessed that my hubby is willing to cook out on the Traeger even when the weather is cold and I’d rather not have to step out on the back deck! I love just about anything on the Traeger, but chicken is one of my favorites. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5940. Good words of wisdom.
    When we are sad we are comforted and encouraged by Holy Spirit. When we are angry we lose His comfort and feel His conviction.
    It makes sense not to get angry. While it is the natural response to get angry when we are hurt, we are not ‘natural’ people. We are spiritual people and need to live accordingly.

    Reply

    • So true – we are spiritual people and need to live according to the Spirit. And yet I struggle with this one still. I am reminded of Paul’s words in Romans 7:15 – “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” I am just thankful that my Savior sees and understands my struggle, and enters in to help me overcome that which I cannot overcome on my own. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5941. Loved this Linda. In the past He has shown me things that weren’t good for me, that were okay for others to do. So I am joining you in this seeking and prayer because I know there is more, and He wants what is best for me.Thank you and God bless you! 🙂

    Reply

    • Yes, Almond milk is what I’ve been putting in my coffee for the past week. I tried soy milk, but my doctor said there is too much estrogen in it to be using it all the time. I even got some dark chocolate almond milk that makes my coffee taste like a mocha. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5944. Linda, you have blessed me again. I would rather be hurt and sad than mad .. . .if that would please Him more. And you know, I never realized that sadness and mourning aren’t sins. Didn’t even think about it. It’s just a lie that says it to us, that we have to be happy all the time, if we’re really Christians.
    God bless you and thank you for showing me something really important that I will start putting to use now! love and prayers!

    Reply

    • Deb, I am seeking God’s grace to help me prefer sadness over anger. It is interesting, though, how different people struggle with different sins. I talked to someone after our Ash Wednesday service and told her about my plans to write this post. She said for her it is easier to be sad and that being angry is not a problem. But for me, I must constantly lean on Jesus to be forgiving. I am so thankful that He faithfully helps me. 🙂 I’m so glad this post was a blessing to you as a reminder that sadness and mourning are not sins. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5946. I love that you found a sweet treat, dairy free! Thank You Jesus! And then you shared it with us . . .sweeter still! God bless you and yours and all you discover on this journey! love and prayers!

    Reply

  5947. Thanks Linda. I love coconut. I haven’t seen this coconut in our shops here, but I’m going to look for it. Maybe it will be in the Asian shops. By the way, coconut is also rich in vitamin D.

    Reply

    • I hope you can find it. It is a product of the Philippines so hopefully it makes its way down to you. 🙂 I didn’t know coconut had vitamin D, but I can certainly use that here in the oft-overcast Pacific Northwest! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, You are such a wonderful encouragement! I actually wrote part of this during our Ash Wednesday service. I’d thought about writing an acrostic poem for Lent before I went to church, and then we were singing a song about the Lamb of God it just came to me that I had to start the poem with this name for Jesus. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5949. I so appreciate you, and how you help us, no matter what it is that’s going on. What I loved about this was that it would help us focus on Him more . . .instead of what we were sacrificing. I love that and need that. thank you so much! God bless you as you seek hard after Him. love and prayers!

    Reply

  5950. Thanks so much for the reminder, Linda! And I’ve nominated you for the Mrs Sparkly Award–come on by and have a look, if you have time. God bless you abundantly.

    Reply

  5951. Claudia picked my favourite lines too:
    He really did die
    not just diet.

    We can never truly understand. All we can do is be truly thankful.

    Reply

    • I think those are my favorite lines, too. And I agree that the most we can do is be thankful each and every day – not just during Lent, but all year long – for the gift of His grace. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, It occurred to me that I’ve recently given up dairy and wheat pretty much permanently – not just for Lent – so eating today won’t be any different than eating tomorrow. 🙂 But Lent does make me think of the sacrifice of our dear Jesus, and to at least try to comprehend. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5960. This is a rarity: a true indictment and an entertaining read. This better than any Mardi Gras treat.

    “For 40 days we sacrifice
    as if we were wandering
    in the wilderness, hungry and tired
    But each night we sleep in our own
    warm, cozy beds
    with our stomachs full
    even if not with our favorite treats”

    Pretty much puts my meager sacrifice in its proper place. Thanks!
    – Mosk

    Reply

    • Mosk – Thanks for the thoughtful comment. What an honor to have been able to pen a poem that is dubbed a “rarity: a true indictment and an entertaining read.” 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5965. This song has me crying too, beautiful Linda. Praying to hang onto that truth . . .live it out in my life. God bless you as you praise Him tonight! love and prayers!

    Reply

  5967. You covered the covetousness vs contentment scenario very well. Covetousness comes easily to our human nature. The contentment which comes from yielding to God’s will might seem foreign to our human way of thinking, but when we experience it, we know the wisdom of slaying our covetousness and abiding in His contentment. There is nothing to compare with the peace of God.

    Reply

  5968. The clear message that I take away from your post, is that gratitude is an effective cure for coveting, for always wanting more.

    “He wants to bless us uniquely…” I like the way you find the best in what God has given you. And btw, I bet my laundry room is smaller than your laundry room. : ) I pray that I will be grateful for my unique blessings today. Thanks, Linda.

    Reply

    • Linda, I love your take-a-way! That “gratitude is an effective cure for coveting.” As for laundry rooms, I am extremely thankful for mine. Before we remodeled in 2009 my “laundry room” was out in the unheated garage! What I have now may be a bit small, but I love it! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5969. Thank you, beautiful Linda, for showing us how coveting does affect us in a bad way. I love being thankful for what I have, for all the small things. It increases my joy and faith in Jesus, who knows just what I need and blesses me so much!
    God bless you and your thankfulness today! 🙂

    Reply

  5971. Linda, you are going to help us as you go through this. I’m cheering for you and this sounds perfect – and fast – for me. Quick question . . .does a dairy allergy just develop or is it there all along?
    thank you and God bless you as you go dairy and wheat free!

    Reply

    • Deb, I don’t really know how long I’ve had an allergy to dairy. It seems, though, that now that I’m not eating dairy (and it’s only been two weeks) some things that have bothered me for years – most of my life for one in particular – are no longer a problem. Even my fibromyalgia pain has abated a lot! So maybe I’ve been allergic all my life and my body had finally just had too much. Anyway, I thank God that I finally figured it out and am looking forward to figuring out how to eat without dairy and sharing the journey. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5972. What greater love . . . no love can compare, or even come near, the love of God for sinful mankind. No love could hold a candle to the brilliance of the love of the Saviour as He bore the wrath of His Father as He paid the penalty for my sins.

    >> “What is most valuable in this life?”
    May my heart response always be ‘my relationship with my loving Father’ and may my life show this to those I meet.

    What an amazing God!

    Reply

  5973. I loved “as grace leaks out of cracks”! And that those cracks don’t heal. So wonderful, beautiful Linda! So thankful for the grace you let leak out of you here and for His grace that covers and heals us! Yay to you feeling better!!! Praising Jesus now.
    love and prayers!

    Reply

  5975. Hi Linda! Great poem, great message–and I’m so glad that our prayers are being answered, in that you are feeling better. Will continue same–May HE bless you abundantly today, and always.

    Reply

    • Caddo, Yes, praise be to God that I am feeling better than I’ve felt in years! Who knew a milk allergy could cause so many problems for so many years. 🙁 But a little wisdom goes a long way. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5976. “The greatest good-
    spiritual health and salvation
    for the least of us, for all-
    each clay pot used to help others
    as grace leaks out of cracks-
    Cracks that never seem to heal”
    I have been reading over and over 2Cor. 4:12 “so then death worketh in us, but life in you.” To me you are decribing this very point. Thank you for this beautiful poem.

    Reply

    • Richard, That is a great verse! Thanks for adding it to the mix. 🙂 I probably should have quoted 2 Corinthians 4 in the post – it was definitely in the back of my mind. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5978. “Where do we turn in times of strife….”

    Why does living in those times always make us cling to Him more? I wish I was more faithful than that, but at least I’m resting in His peace tonight. Praise God. And thanks for the reminder. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I do not know why we do that. If only we had more faith in the good times, then maybe we’d have fewer times of strife. I’m just so glad He is always there no matter what. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5991. Ooooo . . .I like this song lots! What good, indeed! God bless you, beautiful Linda, as you find your life in Him! love and prayers for your week ahead.

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad you liked this one! I just love Third Day. Thanks for the prayers – I am looking forward to a busy week, but am thankful that I’m feeling so much better. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5993. “and the records clear today, ’cause He washed my sins away”. . .Oh, I love this, Linda! 🙂 Thank you for not waiting. Today has been a day when the enemy wants to remind me of my record. So thankful I get to say, “what record?”
    God bless you, beautiful friend, as you live free in Him!

    Reply

  5994. “Judge, jury, and executioner.”

    Makes me think that I hold myself to a higher standard than my Lord and Savior. Shame on me.

    The “nudge” is really the only were for me to get relief from those bad feelings. Yes, the power of prayer… : )

    Reply

  5995. I will sleep better tonight having read today’s post. I guess the issue of forgiveness has been heavy on my heart lately.

    “My account was settled and paid.” And I can keep it current by praying and asking. Thank God.

    Reply

    • Linda, Then I’m so glad I posted it tonight. I originally had it scheduled for Monday, then changed my mind. 🙂 It is wonderful that our old account is settled! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5996. Hi Linda, glad you’re feeling better. When I fell ill favourite foods were some of the first to go dairy, wheat etc. but I have been able to refine the list over time. I an about to go on a cleanse for 8/12 weeks that you may find much benefit in, it’s called the Passover cleanse, I will put it up on my blog prob. today or tomorrow. This really helps cleanse you inside and out.

    Many blessings

    Reply

  5997. Oh Linda! I’m so thankful that something is helping. Thank you Jesus! Praying also for you to be able to adjust to not having dairy and wheat, that He gives you boatloads of grace to do this. And lots of good new recipes to try. A little teary here, but oh so thankful!
    love and prayers and blessings!

    Reply

  5998. I have dealt with Chronic Fatigue for over twenty years. Found out three years ago I have an imbalanced immune system-(border line lupus) A few days ago, my husband and I have decided to go dairy and gluten free. I understand it will help me feel better.
    I will pray for you!

    Reply

    • April, I will pray for you, too. I can tell you that just a week dairy free has made a huge difference in how I feel. I have more energy, less pain. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  5999. That is wonderful to have found a way to relieve your symptoms!
    I am amazed at how many people are turning up sensitive/allergic to either dairy or wheat, and it is equally amazing to me how quickly the healing begins when the culprit has been eliminated. Truly, the human body is a wonderful creation!

    Reply

    • Heather, Yes, the human body is a wonder. Sometimes I wish it came with an instruction manual for situations like this, but am just glad my doctor finally had the wisdom to suggest going dairy free. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6000. Oh, I LIKE this–didn’t know about “Thankful Thursday”! Thank you, Linda! God bless you abundantly (and wondering how you’re doing?), love Caddo

    Reply

    • Caddo, Oh yes, Thankful Thursday started at the beginning of 2011 at the suggestion of Ann over at Tonirand’s Blog. 🙂 I love it because no matter how things are going it forces me to think about what I am thankful for every week. I’m actually doing much better – thanks for asking. There will be more on that for tomorrow’s Recipe Friday post. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6002. Looking at this from the opposite side is extremely effective. IT was a serious look at hate… I loved the poem and it did make me pause and consider… great piece…

    Reply

  6003. Praying to be set free in His love . . .to forgive as I’ve been forgiven. Now that’s something to be thankful about! 🙂 Thank you Linda, for our thankful Thursdays. God bless you and be the constant lifter of your head.

    Reply

    • Deb, Thankful Thursday has grown so and ventured into so many places one doesn’t normally consider the venue of thankfulness. 🙂 But with God, all is thankfulness and all is forgiven. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6004. This is a good consideration, Linda.
    have found that the less “forgetful” I am willing to be, the more likely I am to disbelieve the Lord forgives completely. And you are so right in pointing out that true forgiveness is impossible when I try to do it on my own.

    Reply

  6005. Thank you so much, Linda. A great love lesson, to keep no record of wrongs. 🙂 This is one area I can not feel bad about if I’m forgetful. God bless you as you forgive even the hard stuff today. Love and prayers for His tender care and watch over you.

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks so much for your encouragement and prayers. I really did write this one for myself as much as for anyone else. I should know better than to keep a record of wrongs, even if it is sealed, but sometimes God has to remind me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6006. It’s difficult to believe that God can truly forget our sins. Because, as humans, we are not able to forget on purpose. We forget things because our memory is flawed. God’s memory is not flawed. He forgets our sins, on purpose! That is truly amazing!

    Reply

  6010. it makes a great contrast to the Love is that we are used to and a lot of true statements about hate…it certainly eats us from the inside reforming us in its image…

    Reply

  6013. This is sooooo beautiful , beautiful Linda. Aub and I were blessed and swaying to the music. God bless you and cover you with His love!

    Reply

  6016. Amen.
    Thank you, Linda.
    Beautiful post that put things in perspective. Thankful to God that I am a success!
    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  6018. Beautiful Linda, thank you for the sweet encouragement today. I feel quite a bit less than successful according to what some would say, but because of what Jesus says and has done for me, I know that I am not a failure. 🙂
    God bless you as you go this week, in His hands and in His plans for you. love and prayers!

    Reply

  6020. Beautiful, Linda
    Thanks for sharing.
    And after all hate is, it “never wins”! I, for one, am thankful.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6021. Thanks, Linda
    It seems spring has come early this side of the world … the usual snowstorms and cold temperatures aren’t happening. Those who study the weather have no explanation …
    “The truth of God’s Word and His faithfulness
    Reminds me of the promise of spring”
    I am wondering how this change in season is fulfilling His words in Matthew. Better keep my head ‘up’ …Spring is truly coming!

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  6022. I’m thankful for dogs that sniff (and play, and wiggle, and give kisses) every single day! : )

    It’s hard to be thankful when things are bad, and I’m inspired by your poem. Lately when I pray all I do is complain. Thanks for helping me see all my blessings. This is a sweet and humble poem, Linda. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

    • Linda, I find myself complaining more than I’d like lately, too. I am just so glad that I started Thankful Thursday so that at least once a week I am forced to stop and take inventory, to remind myself of what I am thankful for. And I am in total agreement with being thankful for dogs that sniff, and play, and wiggle, and give kisses! I often feel sorry for people who don’t have a loveable little dog to come home to each day. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6023. We are OUTRAGED by one priest’s dress code that prevents us from celebrating Mass. Please visit and lend your support at my blog. Thank you.

    If I had in any way offended you with this comment/post, please delete with my sincere apologies. Thank you, Eric

    Reply

    • Eric, I am sorry for your struggles with this priest. Our Lord Jesus warned that we would have trouble in this world. But He has overcome. Even though this priest has said your wife cannot attend mass in certain dress, this priest cannot prevent you from worshipping God. Be careful that your response to this priest does not become a stumbling block for others to finding Christ. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6024. I’m thankful for you and how your beautiful poem brought a moment of peace and to take note what I’m thankful for:)

    Reply

  6025. Linda, this was really good and helped me to be thankful today too, for all that is yet coming, even when I don’t see it totally right now. God bless you as you continue to reach out to us and minister in His name, even in your pain. Love and prayers for healing, health and help for you. God bless you and hold you close today.

    Reply

    • Deb, I am thankful that I was able to pass on a spirit of thankfulness today, even when it was a struggle to find what I was thankful for. I am also thankful for your prayers. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6027. I always have leftover stew, and am always looking for a different pot pie recipe. Will give this one a try, as it looks soooo easy!

    Reply

  6029. Beautiful. I guess if I had to sum up the opposite of love, meekness, mercy, and loving neighbor as self it would be the pride in ones heart that compels him to judge a fellow brother or sister in Christ according to political ideology. National politics long ago found its way into the pulpits with accusing terms such as ‘liberal’ and ‘conservative’. And neither has anything to do with unity, forbearance, benevolence, and brotherly love. Both terms are intended to divide, accuse, judge, and cause harm to unity among brethren. And America is deeply wounded by its warring words.

    Again, beautiful poem. Timely.

    Reply

  6030. Wow Linda . . .I think this really helped me to look at it from the opposite side. I see what you mean and where I don’t measure up too. Great great work and insight from Him, to write this poem! God bless you as you follow where He leads!
    love and prayers!

    Reply

    • Deb, I thought about actually not blogging this, but I couldn’t get it out of my head so I knew I had to. I especially like the last line: “Hate never wins.” But as Paul wrote, “Love never fails.” 🙂 Thanks for the prayers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6033. tears. I can’t even explain what these words have spoken to my heart!

    it was a beautiful poem… but so much more

    ~L

    Reply

  6034. The bring to light in such clarity the source of love and peace. The straightforwardness of your vision makes the words that much more sincere and authentic.

    Reply

  6035. Loving all the responses here! 🙂 And the poem is just perfect. You blessed me today, with it Linda, as it helps me remember that those that don’t know Him and what Love is, have a harder time showing love to others.
    God bless you and keep you in His tender care today!
    love and prayers!

    Reply

    • Deb, Not bad for a poem that I wrote in the shower! You make a good point about remembering how much harder it is for those who don’t know Jesus to show love to others, especially the unloveable. Thank you for your prayers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6036. Thanks Linda
    Putting “first things first” means we don’t have to have ‘do-overs’. How cool is that?
    Thanks for the reminder.
    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  6038. This is SO wonderful–just the reminder I needed to day, Linda–thanks bunches!! Hope you’re feeling better today–sending love and hugs and continued prayers.

    Reply

  6047. what i love in this is that we first have to receive from him before we can give…many try from their own strength…and are soon powered out..thanks for the reminder..

    Reply

  6049. Hi Linda–Sorry I’ve been absent, and thank you for your visits to my blog. I wanted you to know I’m standing with you in prayer, that there will soon be a diagnosis which makes sense and can be successfully treated. I salute your strength and patience as you walk this road–and speaking for myself, I don’t get tired of hearing what’s going on–I honestly want to know, so that I have specific focus and direction for my prayers for you. I thank you for sharing–perhaps it will make it easier for me to be more open. Just wanted you to know I care–sending love and hugs. God bless you with HIS sufficiency today, and in the days ahead.

    Reply

    • Caddo, No need to apologize! I appreciate any visits, but certainly don’t expect anyone to read all my posts. I know I haven’t kept up on reading other blogs like I’d like to either – seems life gets in the way of my blog reading. Your prayers and encouragement are such a blessing! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6050. As a classical music junkie, I also love TWANG! I have a playlist called “Real Cowboys” with many Dwight Yoakam songs. I got hooked in the early 90’s, and still play those songs alot.

    What a fun thing to write about! Your music posts have inspired me…

    Hope you are having a decent day, you’re in my prayers.

    Reply

  6052. Linda . . .you are a true music lover! 🙂 I love the words to this . . .but for some reason I have trouble with twang. haha! I just need some twang tweaking, that’s all.
    God bless you, and the beautiful music He plays out in your life.

    Reply

    • Deb, That’s okay – twang isn’t for everyone. 😉 There are certainly genres of music I don’t like, such as classical and jazz. I am just glad there are all kinds of music for all kinds of people. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6055. Linda, what a perfect post, with the Psalm and the song. God gave me that Psalm too, at a very difficult time in my life. Thank you so much for ministering to us in the midst of your own storm. God bless you as you look to Him.

    Reply

  6056. Linda, this was like a Psalm . . .so beautiful and true and filled with His word. Thank you and God bless you as He shepherds you today. Now you have me wanting to try one of these! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I think you would be great at writing found poems! And using Biblegateway.com to find verses on a particular theme makes it really easy. I just copied all of the verses into a Word document and then read through them to decide how to put them together. It was really fun. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6060. Praying that you will soon be diagnosed and on the road to recovery, and peace to you in the mean time. I’m glad to know how to pray for you, and I’m grateful for your strength and the verses you stand on. Hugs to you, Linda…

    Reply

  6061. Thinking of you, Linda, with love and prayers. I hate that it’s so hard right now. But I love this post, and how you moved from the unknown, to what you do know . . .His promises and His love for you. You encourage us even in your pain, by how you respond to Him. God bless you and heal you.

    Reply

  6062. Praying for you, Linda

    I’m sorry you’re not well, but I am happy that you decided to share your heart with us. If you try to carry a 100 pound burden on your own, you are carrying all 100 pounds. When you share, we help you carry it to Him and that lightens the load you have to bear.

    I am standing in agreement with the prayers for your healing. May His name continue to be glorified in and through your experiences.

    Peace and blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6063. Linda
    I know exactly where you are coming from. I have been in your place but know when in the pit of the unknown that God is still at work. For me, it was in that pit of the unknown when I learned more about myself, did soul searching and learned to listen to that still small voice even more.
    In HIS time He will give you the answers you need.
    Read Psalm 121 and allow these words carry you especially on the roughest of days.
    You are in my prayers.
    Love Hugs and Blessings
    April

    Reply

  6064. When the ‘low’ times happen to me. My heart reminds me of unknown mercies. Where would I have been today were I well. What road might I crossed so another car could strike me? What danger was I saved from while I was ‘low’ and out of the way? I don’t know. But God does.
    and He works in mysterious ways His wonders to perform. Best wishes to you for health and strength in good time.

    Carolyn

    Reply

  6065. Your pain is not insignificant, but I know what you mean. We are not in a war torn place, we have food and clean water…and I believe that we are to take our own pain, and use it to help someone else. So it is most appropriate that you posted this, and shared the Words from Scripture that give you comfort and hope.

    We all need those things every day. You have helped me with the reminders.

    Of course, you are in my prayers, trusting in His mercy and Thankful that you have the Perfect Physician in Jesus. 🙂

    Blessings and prayers for a Brilliant Doctor who will solve this mystery for you.

    Reply

  6066. I am so glad you posted this. I am sad that you are suffering, and hope won’t be much longer, but I am so glad the Lord is bringing you glimpses of Him that you are sharing.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  6067. Amen! Nothing insignificant about this post! And those are some of my very favorite scriptures. Thank you for listening to the Holy Spirit and bringing the encouragement of God’s word. And I will be praying for your health issue, specifically that God tells the doctors what it is, so they’ll stop telling you what it isn’t!

    Reply

  6068. Really wonderful words of what it must have been to walk in those moments, such an intuitive mind to capture it in this way. Lovely ~ Rose

    Reply

  6069. “… and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.”

    What a bold reminder for our world today, especially when Scripture is being manipulated every day to win prospective voters.

    I never used to like reading poetry very much… too deep and too complex. But I’ve learned to enjoy it with an open mind, especially because your writing really speaks to me. Thanks for another great poem! ; )

    Reply

  6071. Benton, that poem is a sure winner… full of emotion and so realistic I feel like I was there.

    I’m too young to have experienced the reality of Vietnam but I’ve talked to some men who were there. Your poem captures their personal acounts very well. Good work! ; )

    Reply

    • His teacher thought so, too. He got 40 out of 40 points on it! I don’t really remember Vietnam either, but my brother was over there. I’ve never talked to him about it. Thanks for the nice comment for Benton. I’ll pass it on. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6073. Amazing how Benton tied it all together into a single flowing message. A talented boy, he is!
    On a different note. This morning when I woke up I sat, as usual, in contemplation. Then I heard your words spoken by the Holy Spirit. And here’s what He showed me. Pray on your knees for 10-15 minutes each day. It’s a way of honoring the contingent, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” And since our land needs healing so, I tried it. Haven’t prayed on my knees in a long time, but I’m committed to being faithful, and have called a friend and asked her to do the same. Now she’s spreading the words amongst her sphere of influence… looks like you’ve been instrumental in starting a movement! Pass it on!

    Reply

    • Debra, Yes, as biased as I may be, I can agree that my son is quite talented! God has gifted him both artistically and in terms of his compassion and generosity.
      As for the movement I’ve started, I can’t take credit. It is truly the Holy Spirit who started the movement in me to my knees. I actually wrote about my own beginnings of praying on my knees in a post called “An Attitude of Kneeling.” I am so excited and blessed to see what God is doing with my faithfulness to share about my prayer life and habits! 🙂 What an awesome God we serve. I know you will be blessed, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6077. Oh WOW…. and you say every line is found in articles about the topic??? WOW… Benton… Oh my God …. you would swear that he sat there and wrote this piece from scratch … this is BRILLIANT…. *speechless*

    Reply

  6079. I’m sorry I was unaware you’ve not been feeling tip-top. I hope you’re noticing some improvement, and will certainly add my prayers. Yes, that’s what we’re here for–to help carry the burdens. God bless you–love, Caddo

    Reply

    • Caddo, Thank you for your prayers. They are much appreciated. Quite honestly, I can’t remember the last time I felt “tip-top” but January brought a new ailment. I try hard not to complain (learned that from my mother), but if I keep it to myself then I lose the blessing of the prayers of my fellow believers. And prayer is quite powerful in helping to lighten the burden, I have learned. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6083. Found or not, this hangs together so well as a piece. The tone is simple and all the truer for it…and the recurrent here I am a reminder of announcing how out of place the speaker is

    Reply

  6084. Well congratulations on a very nice piece of work. Nothing about the war in Vietnam really made any sense at all and so very many suffered because of it, on both sides.
    Most countries are beautiful to the peoples of that country. Vietnam is no excpetion, and has some beautiful land and seascapes. War makes everything seem so dreadful.
    A haunting tale, told really very well. Well done Benton.

    Reply

  6085. I’m not joking when I tell you I have goose bumps! What a wonderful and mature write! It’s a mighty subject to tackle, and I dare say you’ve got a word weaver on your hands. Fantastic job, Benton!

    Reply

  6087. Very powerful poem. The killer verse for me was
    “Here I am
    I lie here for seven straight days
    You hear stuff nobody should ever hear
    It’s practically impossible here
    I feel helpless”

    Great work Benton!

    Reply

  6089. I’ve never seen a copyright page on a blog before. Thank you for this inspiring and important idea. I appreciate your thoroughness and integrity.

    Namaste’,
    (Sandskrit word meaning “The God in me, honors & loves the God in you”)

    Reply

  6090. Linda, I am sorry you are not well. I sometimes think of the beauty of pain and of not feeling well. They are like little bells that sound to warn us the body needs a little tender loving care from its Creator. I guess in some way it is akin to ‘when we are weak then we are strong.’

    Carolyn

    Reply

  6091. I haven’t heard this before . . .and it is sad, but beautiful too. 🙂 Thank you for your Music Monday posts. God bless you as you put yourself into His hands. love and prayers!

    Reply

    • Deb, I can’t believe you’ve never heard this song! My dad was a big Johnny Cash fan so I’ve been listening to him since I was knee high to a grasshopper. 🙂 I’ll have to post more of his music for music Mondays. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6092. His voice was so soulful. I also love come of the covers he did of some of my favorite bands (like Soundgarden and NIN.) And it must be such an honor to be covered by an artist like Cash. His voice and presence lends a special gravity and sensitivity to the songs.

    Reply

  6094. Beautiful Linda, I’m so thankful that you are being prayed for and encouraged. . .that others are helping you carry this. I am praying too and so not liking you going through this. I pray that doctors can determine what is wrong and you can get relief soon. God bless you and lift you up today. love and prayers.

    Reply

    • Deb, I so appreciate your prayers. I don’t know what I would do without the prayer support! And it was just so perfect this morning to be reminded that not only do I not have to carry this alone, but that the Christian thing to do is to seek help from fellow believers and God to help me carry it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6096. Hello Linda…thank you for following my blog at Faith1st Ministry. My hope it has and will continue to be a major blessing in your life. May God richly bless you as you continue to write and blog. Please continue with us on this journey and remember to have Faith 1st. — Sebastian

    Reply

  6097. Linda, great great job with the pantoum, with the topic, with the poem itself. You wowed me. God wows me through you. God bless you and all the borders you cross with your Jesus.
    love and prayers!

    Reply

  6098. Thanks, Linda

    I know where my own struggles have taken me and all I can say is that I am thankful that He loved beyond my ignorance.

    God bless you. You have brought up many memories. Many reasons to give Him thanks and endless praise.

    Here’s Sandi Patty’s “Unexpected Friends”

    “With some unexpected friends
    Never asking where I’ve been
    Just a hand of mercy and words of love
    Call me back again
    Oh, it feels like home
    With unexpected friends
    A soothing balm for the wounds I suffer along the way
    A fervent prayer giving courage and hope for another day
    Through the help of my friends
    Ones I may never see again
    Seem like angels that were sent by heaven for me”

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

      • Thanks! You’re always so gracious with helpful suggestions for me–I seriously appreciate you taking that kind of time and interest; anything I can do for you, other than prayers for your health concerns?

  6100. Beautiful, poignant and rich in meaning. The form works well in this instance. I stood there with you once, but then it came to me, watching species adapt, grow new appendages, reproduce from one leg cut off as the star-fish, that there is some kind of intelligence in the very cell– call it God, call it life. xx I’m at http://parolavivace.blogspot.com – my difficulty with many believers is that they turn the mystery of the universe into a cliche; humankind has invented many Gods ergo the world’s great religions. xj

    Reply

  6101. Well, first I think this is a marvelous border to write about; not a physical border, but a divide made of differing beliefs.

    As neither a Christian nor an atheist, my observation is that both camps can be thoroughly intractable. It’s not entirely mysterious, I don’t think. As the man said, to those who don’t believe, no proof is possible, and to those who do, none is needed.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice and thoughtful comment. As one who didn’t come to a level of certain faith as a small child, though, I wouldn’t say that I needed no evidence that God exists before I believed. I do not require 100% proof, because such does not exist on either side of the border. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6103. Linda, I agree so heartily with Claudia. Jesus crossed all borders and hung out with people many would not have associated with. I do think that both Christians and Atheists need to listen to one another. I do wish they would find common ground, but it doesn’t seem likely. Thank you for presenting your viewpoint unashamedly. I do think, as poets, we all cross borders and respect one another, as I know what Jesus have!

    Reply

  6104. nice…great use of form and repitition in this…and yes there are stanch fools on either side this line that would much rather throw stones than come together…one of the big things about jesus was he hung out not with the religeous usually unless he was smiting them around a bit…haha

    Reply

  6105. you know…jesus was the greatest border crosser ever.. he always saw the people, no matter where they came from and if they were acceptable..just think of mary who washed his feet…think we need his open eyes to see and understand and build bridges

    Reply

    • Claudia, That is so true. I must confess, though, that I find this easy to do with most people. There is something about atheists and their refusal to see anything Divine, as well as their tendency to call people of faith unreasoning, that has been a struggle for me. I do know, however, that there have been many famous atheists who eventually became believer, and usually because someone loved them in spite of their lack of faith. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6107. Hi Linda my name is Anne you don’t know me yet but I hope we will share in the near future, you do know a new special friend of mine Caddo. I’m sure you have worked hard to encourage others with these Awards and God bless you for doing so, I have other Awards that I would like to uplift you with and will do in the future but today I would just like to offer you the King of Kings friendship Award this is a blessing acknowledging we are family we are one. There are no rules to follow as you will see with the link.If wanted you can leave a comment which I will respond to or just click Like.

    Blog Post – http://freedomborn.wordpress.com/2011/12/15/the-king-of-kings-friendship-award/

    Christian Love Anne.

    Reply

  6108. I’m like Linda . . .there is just so much more to this Friday recipe time, these meals shared together, that blesses me. So thank you for all of that, the blessing of sharing your family with us, your love for each other and your love of Jesus!

    Reply

  6109. Hi Linda, I’m back–I nominated you for the “Genuine Blogger Award” (no obligations, but hope you’ll be blessed!)–have a great weekend! God bless you.

    Reply

  6112. Linda… I always like it when you share your family-enjoying-a-meal pics! I can tell from the photo that this is about more than just the food. Happy for you to be blessed by precious family time and a delicious meal.

    Reply

    • Linda, Most dinners are eaten off TV trays in front of the TV, so when we have a special occasion that requires unburying my dining room table we make the most of it! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6113. Oh, I just listened to this music video “He IS”–by the end I was teary-eyed. So beautiful and rich! Thanks for sharing, sisters! God bless you all.

    Reply

  6115. Oh Linda, this sounds so good–makes me hungry at 10:20 am!! How lovely that your son loves to cook and made you a wonderful dinner! God bless you today.

    Reply

  6116. “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” James 4:8

    “He assured me I would find you with a simple heartfelt prayer.” How blessed are we that He would welcome us back to Him that easily. I appreciate your honesty and humility in sharing this, Linda. Been there. Hugs to you for a beautiful post! : )

    Reply

  6117. I love how this experience has carried on to today! And just how He orchestrates your life and these posts .. .it’s so beautiful. Thank you and God bless you as you walk with Him.

    Reply

  6120. linda, I don’t tell you enough, or perhaps not at all, but I do so enjoy reading your blogs, I love how your words flow and draw out the Bible for us that we want to know more about our Creator and Savior. Karen N.

    Reply

    • Karen, Thank you! I actually did not know that you have been reading my blog. It is such a blessing to me to know that others are blessed by what I write. I am so thankful that God has brought me to this place where I can share His love and mercy with others, and that He brings readers like you to be blessed. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6121. Linda, through your sharing of this verse, it had the same effect on me immediately as I read it. I had never taken notice before of its rich offering. Wow. Beautiful. And as He walked with the deciples towards Emmaus, we each are on that road. And He continues to walk it with us..teaching…leading…and directing our paths. And I am not deserving of His time and effort.

    Carolyn

    Reply

    • Carolyn, That is so exciting how God has used this post! And I am smiling because what you have written foreshadows the poem I am already working on for tomorrow’s post. 🙂 What an awesome Savior we have in Jesus! We do not deserve all He offers, but because of His character as merciful and just He faithfully offers it anyway. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6123. You know I keep finding Him too! 🙂
    A friend sent me a beautiful book once, that I shared with someone else so can’t tell you the title and authors of, but it went through all the different feasts of the Old Testament and showed how they were really all about Jesus. 🙂
    Linda, my music mentor, do you remember a song . . .an older song . . .that sang about all the books of the Bible and what they were about in just a few words? Someone asked me for it and I can’t remember enough about it to find it to share with them! Thanks for any help you can give!
    God bless you as you see Jesus today!

    Reply

    • Thank you for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. Sometimes I write poetry without any commentary, and sometimes what I start to write as commentary on a poem becomes the poem. But this one deserved a little explanation. I’m glad you liked it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6125. I haven’t read Job for awhile and love what you found! Wow! So thankful that we have Jesus for our mediator. 🙂
    What Linda said, too, about thinking Job’s friends were wise and then realizing oops, guess not. 🙂 Really humbling . . .all of it!
    God bless you and so glad you can’t go back to just journaling. 😉 Love and prayers!

    Reply

  6126. First– I found wisdom in Job’s friends. Then I scorned them. And then I figured out I didn’t know any more than they did.

    One of my favorite things about your teaching is the way you point out Old Testament foreshadowing of New Testament events. I don’t remember reading about Job’s desire for a mediator. Now I see that without Christ, it was worse being job than I realized.

    P.S. So glad you’re still writing in the new year! ; )

    Reply

    • Linda, Sometimes I think I’m wiser than Job’s friends, other times I realize I don’t really know more than they did either. It makes me thankful for the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit to give me the hope of knowing God loves me and that’s all that really matters.

      I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your comments and encouragement. It is knowing that my writing is blessing others that keeps me writing. For years I kept all this in my head or a journal – after 2 1/2 years of blogging I don’t think I could go back to that. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6130. i find luther very inspiring…did not see the special but have you seen the movie Luther…it is really well done…he stood for something…that is what truly captures me of him…

    Reply

    • Brian, I haven’t seen the movie (except the old black and white one many years ago). What inspires me about Luther is that he stood for something not when it was easy to do so, but when it was very, very hard. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6134. This is a good consideration of the significance of Job, Linda.

    Did you catch that? Job thought he needed a mediator between him and God. Of all of Job’s prayers, God eventually answered this one.

    After reading through the book a while back, it came to my mind that he not only thought so, but actually looked forward to the fulfillment of the promise God had made to Adam and Eve. In 19:25-27, he appears to be speaking of Christ the redeemer and future resurrection. It was a good thing for me to see, as I used to assume that OT personalities were largely ignorant of these sorts of details of God’s promise to restore His fallen creation.

    There are so many great things to be learned from the narrative! But you are right, the book needs to be read as a unit and kept in proper context.

    Reply

    • Heather, I will soon be reading chapter 19 and will look for the connection you found there to Christ as redeemer. I love how much prophecy there is about Jesus in the OT, often in places one would not think to look. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6135. Good thoughts on Job. And you are correct about not taking any of Job out of context. The speakers change and if one skips verses, and so forth, one loses the context of who is speaking. And the ‘who’ is relevant to why and what they are speaking. The Book of Job is jam packed with many lessons and much wisdom. I recently came across it again and did a post on the gems I found there. If interested the post is titled Job: God’s Perfect Man.

    ” We really don’t know why a particular incident of suffering and hardship
    has befallen a good person.” Aint it the truth :).

    Again, good thoughts. Thanks.

    Carolyn

    Reply

  6136. Congrats, Linda
    You’ve shared much with us. Everything from cooking to relationships and all that fill the space in between 🙂
    Thanks too for sharing other blogs with us. More to read, much to learn.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6137. I know many are being blessed through your writing and love for Jesus Christ. I know you have blessed me many times.
    Have a wonderful week.
    Blessings,
    April

    Reply

  6139. Linda
    Congratulation! You deserve these awards – I look forward to all the adventures you will lead us to and all your beautiful poetry
    Thank you so much for nominating me for the Candle Lighter Award and the Kreative Blogger Award – I am honored and truly thankful!
    susie @ sptp

    Reply

  6140. Linda,
    what a cool post, and cool things to learn about you too, never would have guessed red, haha. You are extremely talented, and so consistant with your blog and encouraging others, I am thankful for all the times you have encouraged me. Thank you for the awards, I feel very honored, I will have to figure out how to put them on my sidebar, still haven’t figured out how to even put my blogroll there ;-/
    God bless always-Jim

    Reply

  6141. Hi, Sister! I’m wondering if you have the same “crud” I’ve had since New Year’s Eve–it has to end eventually. I’m sending prayers up for you, and also a bunch of hugs to make you feel better–I loved reading your list, congrats to you!! God bless you abundantly.

    Reply

  6143. God bless you, Linda, and thank you for blessing others with awards! 🙂 I loved learning some more things about you . . .and also am praying for you to feel better soon. love and prayers!

    Reply

  6145. You are so right! We all send mixed messages
    I agree we need to periodically take a Spiritual Inventory
    God forgives us – why can’t we forgive ourselves?
    Taking that inventory, confessing any thing we need to and go on in Praise
    God Bless
    susie

    Reply

  6146. Oh beautiful Linda. . . thank you for going there, where you didn’t really want to go. I keep needing this message. And the way you put it, just reading those verses in Matthew again, helped me. God bless you as you listen and write! 🙂

    Reply

  6148. Hi Linda, God bless you today. I’ll say this by way of confession, I have less trouble with the money issue than the “mixed messages” one. It’s easy to compromise, to shave certain “hard” details away–either because I want someone to like me, or because I want the message of Jesus to be more “palatable” or “attractive”–or sometimes both. I’m not particularly good at the whole evangelism thing–being generous with money or things, is much easier for me (I like to think that will convey “the message” better than my words will…) Have an excellent day.

    Reply

  6149. Sometimes I store my treasures here, and sometimes I store them there. In heaven. I agree with “the warrioress.” It’s much more expensive to maintain a fancy lifestyle, but even so, giving always feels better than keeping.

    Reply

    • Linda, When I read about Abraham and some of the other “greats” of the Bible who were blessed by God with an abundance of possessions, I remember that it’s not a bad thing to have nice stuff and money. The problem arises when we start to rely on all that stuff instead of on God, and when we refuse to share what we have with others. But when our hearts are filled with Christ, I think He gives us a desire to bless others as we’ve been blessed. Then it is a joy and not a burden. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • You made me feel better. It’s such a tough topic, but necessary to consider. Thanks for your thoughtful reply.

  6150. For some reason, when one doesn’t have much, it’s easier to give what one doesn’t have much of away. Kind of like the story with the widow and the 2 pence. Jesus said she gave more than a rich man could have. It’s harder to for a rich man to get into heaven because he has come to depend upon and really value money; it’s everything to him. It’s easier not to do this when we are kept humble and struggling financially, imo. We also relate and empathize with the poor much better.

    Reply

    • I think you may be right. Although I’m doing okay now I’ve known my share of having to pinch pennies and have learned that God is the only trustworthy one to count on. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6151. Truly a man of integrity and courage… the kind of person I could never aspire to be. (I’m a coward.)

    “Risking life and excommunication…” Only an annointing from God could inspire a man to do what he did. I studied about him as a high schooler, and appreciate a wonderful poem in his honor.

    Reply

    • Linda, I do believe Luther was annointed by God, that he had a supernatural courage that came from the Holy Spirit. I know it seems like you could never have that kind of courage, but if you really needed it God would provide. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6153. Believe it or not, I love to cook. Well, it’s more like I love to make things up when I want to have something unusual or out of the ordinary. Most of the time my sense of taste is a hit, but every once in a while, well…

    That being said, I was unaware of not only some of the spices on your list, but with what to use them. Now you have me curious. Chicken is about to find another friend!

    Reply

    • I am not at all surprised that you like to cook! You strike me as a very well-rounded individual. Hope the family likes whatever friend your chicken finds. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6154. This is a very helpful list! I’m always checking the backs of the little bottles to see which herbs go with what foods.
    And I had no idea peppermint was good for anything other than making tea or flavoring desserts or tabbouleh.
    Thank you for sharing 🙂

    Reply

  6155. Thank you, Linda

    This is stepping waaay out into new waters for me. 🙂

    My friend has been trying to convince me to use more fresh herbs and seasonings. I have been pushing back, limiting my use to garlic, thyme, escallion, tomatoes… ciilantro? Terragon? Nope …

    ( Weird thing is, I do have a lovely summertime herb garden. I am happy to grow and share with friends but I don’t like cooking with them. I think this pot is going to be a big, big help! I may venture yet.)

    I think I just felt a firm, but gentle push from you. lol I’m with Deb, …I’d like to add this to my collection.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I don’t use fresh herbs very often, except sometimes basil. I usually use dried herbs and have a full spice cupboard full of wonderful flavors. As I was preparing this post, though, I realized I don’t have any chervil. I’m not even sure that is, though I bet my cookbook would tell me if I looked. 😉 Happy cooking and spicing! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6156. Wow . . .that is a great help for someone like me who is cooking and spice challenged. I always wondered how people know what goes good with what and how to add something to spice a dish up and make it taste better. 🙂 I’m printing this off. Thank you for sharing and helping and blessing!

    Reply

  6157. Wonderful post! I was worried you were not writing any longer. I had not received my subscription via email for several weeks. I lost a couple of subscriptions that I have had to go in and re-enter.

    I hope your new year is off to a wonderful start. May many blessings come your way in 2012!
    Blessings
    April

    Reply

    • April, That is so sweet of you to be concerned that I’m not writing. Have no fear – I don’t think I could not write! I have missed two days so far in 2012, but to not write at all is not an option. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6158. “my conscience is captive to the Word of God.” Praying that for me too, Linda. I’m so glad you got to watch that series. I saw that it was on . . .but I didn’t get to see it. Out voted. 🙂 The poem was outstanding. I didn’t think you were going to do an acrostic with it! wow! You are like the queen of acrostics.
    God bless you and your thankful heart for Jesus!

    Reply

    • Deb, I was surprised that hubby actually taped this one (on our DVR). Sorry you didn’t get to see it. You are so sweet giving me the title of queen of acrostics. I do like them as a poetic form. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6159. I wish I had known about that special. I would have liked to record it. I’ll look for a rebroadcast of it. I’m a fan of Luther, big time. We owe a lot to him.

    Reply

  6160. Thank you again. I am an admirer of Martin Luther, of what God accomplished through a very flawed man, of his faith and perseverance. There is a truly excellent biography of him, “Here I Stand” by Roland Bainton, if you like to read things like this. I believe Bainton was a Quaker when he wrote it, so it did not come from a viewpoint biased in Luther’s favor; but it was a balanced and faithful account of his life and made me thankful for him all the more. There is still much we can learn from Luther besides justification by faith alone; and now the Catholic church is coming around to respect him as well. I have hope for healing of old injuries.
    Meanwhile, God’s peace be with you.

    Reply

    • Thanks for your kind comment, and for the book recommendation. That does sound like one I would like to read and I will see if I can get a copy once I’ve made it though a few others in my reading stack. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6162. I just did a search on “Am I my brother’s keeper” and it brought me to your blog. Thank you. I hope you don’t mind that I posted it on my FB page. It is a message that a dear friend of mine may need to hear, and I wanted it to come from someone other than myself. I’m going to visit you blog again and again. Thanks for being you, and for speaking loudly and clearly, without fear. The world needs that.

    Reply

  6163. What a perfect reminder to confess my top ten character defects when I say my bedtime prayers tonight. It’s strangly comforting to know that other people say and feel such awful things, too.. Thanks for posting this.

    Reply

  6164. Awesome! I would not have thought to try and write my own Psalm, but it’s a wonderful idea, and you have done it quite nicely! I have been dwelling on and writing about prayer a lot lately and in fact just wrote one of my daily encouragements about the Lord’s prayer a few minutes ago. Much to my surpise (not really) and delight, when I came to read poems, the first one I read was a prayer poem, and the next was yours. Coincidence! I think NOT! God is SO good!

    I also write poetry and short stories and novels, and here is my poem for this weeks open link night: http://charleslmashburn.wordpress.com/2012/01/10/the-sun-came-up-again-4/

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment! I don’t think it was a coincidence, either. 😉 I can’t really take credit for the idea to write my own psalm – it came to me while I laid in bed Saturday night, and since I didn’t feel like getting up I prayed that God would help me remember it in the morning. And as you said, God is so good – He did help me remember. I will come check out your blog, too. I always like to find other good Christian bloggers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6166. I am new to your blog (got here through caddoveil) but thought I would chime in. Being nothing is something. God made the whole universe out of nothing at all, the seas and all they contain. Imagine what He might intend to make out of you.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and adding to the conversation. I do know that whatever God is making me into is more awesome than I can imagine, and that gives me great joy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6167. I hope you don’t mind…I’m reposting your poem in my blog this morning. Of course, if you object, I will remove it immediately. 🙂

    Reply

  6169. nice…this is an excellent psalm…and you ran the gambit on those on your heart…to me that is a psalm that heart cry…humble us all…

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  6170. Wow, Linda . . .this was a powerful one! I never thought of that, but YES . . .nothing would be better than what I am without Him. Makes me cringe and cry in thankfulness to Him. God bless you, beautiful one of His, writer of His heart. He uses you to touch our hearts for Him!

    Reply

  6172. This is so wonderful! When I realized that the blood of Jesus washed my sins away so that God couldn’t see even a trace, or smudge, anymore–it was like I shed 100 pounds. It’s so freeing, and if that doesn’t make you fall in love with Him–I don’t know what would. Thanks for the lovely reminder, sister Linda!! God bless you richly today!

    Reply

  6174. Thanks, Linda
    Beautiful piece.

    “I’d rather be nothing
    than be what I am
    without You”
    This part caught in my throat a bit. When I consider where I am and what my options had been, I know I could have been ‘better off’ financially if I had made other choices.
    What’s the point of having financial gains if I don’t have relationship with Him? Better off? How so?
    What shall it profit a (wo)man if I have all that I want and more, yet my soul is lost? Nada.
    Yup. ” I’d rather be nothing, than be what I am without (Him)”.
    God bless you, Linda. A great reminder of the benefits of allowing Him to be my identity.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I agree that the choices we’ve made may not have resulted in gain that the world values, but to have Christ is better than all earthly treasures! Hope 2012 is starting out good for you. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Susie, I don’t know where I’d be without my Christian music to listen to and to draw me closer to my dear Jesus. I’m sure He’d provide some other way to draw me closer if I didn’t have it, but am thankful for it nonetheless. 🙂 It is wonderful to connect with another Christian who shares my joy in listening to music that glorifies God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6178. I am taking the new sheet of paper offered by God — thank you!

    I love hearing from Youth Ministers too, the same Ministers who guide my kiddos. Simple fresh approach with matching smiles 🙂 But since adults sometimes need to be ‘spanked’, here comes the Pastor 😉

    Happy New Year Linda!

    Reply

    • Rea, It’s so good to hear from you! Towards the end of 2011 I kind of felt like I lost touch with some of my blogging friends, and I’m looking forward to reading more blogs and keeping in touch more in 2012. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6179. Thank you for sharing her message with us. I used to really love when the youth minister at our church preached. It’s giving me this picture of Jesus pulling my messy sin-filled paper out of the typewriter of my life, wadding it up and throwing it in the garbage, then putting a new page into the typewriter with His hands on the keys now.
    Oh I have to sing with that song too! 🙂
    God bless you and all He writes on your life and heart.

    Reply

    • Deb, I love that image of a clean sheet of paper in the typewriter and Jesus’ hands on the keys! It just takes Colie’s illustration a little farther. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6181. “He will give us a new sheet of paper.” What a relief to read those words, even now. Your youth pastor sounds like a wonderful blessing to the kids at church. ; )

    Reply

    • Linda, She definitely is a blessing to the kids, and to the adults, too! She has given the sermon before and her messages are always wonderful. Even though her message yesterday was something I knew, there was something about the way she illustrated it that was just such a blessing to me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6182. Very well said, ma’am. I enjoyed this very much! I wish we could simply never sin again, but that war between the flesh and the spirit is a pesky thing that we won’t be rid of until we reach the gates of glory. 🙂

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. I agree that it would be great to not have to struggle with sin any more, but I do find that the more I trust in Jesus and listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the easier it is. When I try to do it on my own, I fail every time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6183. The last four lines are so powerful… I’ve set them to music in my head.

    “You know my needs before I even speak.” Thanks for that important reminder. Hugs… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I wish I could hear the music! I’m glad you liked this. This is one that just sort of wrote itself – or more appropriate, it is one the Holy Spirit wrote for me. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6185. This is so beautiful and rendered from your heart, Linda. What an offering . . .thank you! God bless you and your prayers and heart for Him.

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad you liked it. I just thank God that He helped me remember it this morning. I laid in bed last night “writing” it in my head, but wasn’t feeling good so I didn’t get up and right it down. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6192. Linda, you just bless me and inspire me with each poem. It always comes back to Jesus . . .with a whoosh! God bless you as you feel the Spirit moving in you today!

    Reply

    • Theresa, It’s been great getting to know you, too. I am hoping to get more chance to read your blog this year. In 2011, my reading time seemed to go by the wayside as I focused on posting every day. I appreciate your prayers and love the chance to pray for you and your family, too. (One of the great benefits of FB is hearing about such prayer needs). I hope you have a joyous new year. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6197. Thanks Linda.
    It appears that you are a great baker. I wish you lived closer to me so that I could taste some of those goodies that you are cooking up.

    Thanks for your faithfulness in sharing. You are truly gifted of the Lord.

    GOD BLESS AND DO TELL THE LORD THANK YOU!

    DEBRA

    Reply

    • Debra, I have actually never made these, and most of the other baking recipes are from my son (who is the baker in the family) or from a box mix. My specialty is creative cooking of easy dinners. But I like to share what I learn from others in the recipe arena. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6198. This is so good, and affirms that I’m making good decisions in spite of my lack of wisdom, or vision, much of the time. Thank you for a great poem, and continued inspiration and encouragement, Linda–you’re wonderful!! God bless you.

    Reply

    • PS–Linda, I went to your sister’s blog, and I like it! I must, hopefully, make you laugh, though–I apparently live in the delusion that “we” are all much younger than we are: I expected your sister to be 22, maybe 24…

      Reply

      • That is quite a delusion! I’m the baby in the family and 22 seems like a distant memory. I wish my sister would blog more – she is such a good writer. Thanks for the laugh. Peace, Linda

  6199. “… though by some He was not revered.”

    It reminds me that God so loved the world. And since He does not change, it even applies today. His desire for everyone to know Him warms my heart . Thanks for the heartfelt reminder about Epiphany

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  6201. Thanks for sharing, Linda 🙂

    These look quite yummy!!

    If ‘Grandpa’ had shared these this year, I am sure they would enjoyed a better reception than his rock candies. Mind you, I know we will be the ones baking them for him, but the children will be delighted to have ‘Grandpa Cookies’
    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I think these would be fun ones to make with kids (assuming they are old enough to focus). And I agree that Grampa Cookies sound better than rock candy – never been my favorite. 🙂 Peace and Happy New Year, Linda

      Reply

  6203. I’ve heard of this, but never tasted them or done them. It sounds fun . . .but I may not make 260 of them. That might not be fun. 🙂 And i love the name you gave them! Thank you for sharing more than just recipes here. God bless you and yours today, and have a great weekend!

    Reply

    • Deb, I think 260 is actually fewer than my father-in-law has made in years past! It’s quite a project. If I was to make them I’d do a smaller batch too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Linda, when you share recipes, you share a part of you and your family with us, and it is just blesses me. This morning I wrote a little poem in honor of what you do on Fridays and all week long. 🙂
        For Recipe Friday
        Err often on the side of mercy
        over do greatly with dollops of grace
        spread thick love’s sweet icing
        then never look back and regret it.

      • Deb, You are so sweet! No one has ever written a poem for me. I love it. I love you! I praise God for the blessing you are to me. Peace, Linda

  6204. Hi Linda,

    I hope you Christmas was happy and joyful. I pray that your new years of full of love, joy, peace and prosperity in the Lord.

    GOD BLESS AND DO TELL THE LORD THANK YOU!

    Debra

    Reply

  6205. Thank you for teaching us and for a wonderful poem too! A 2-fer! Thankful for thankful Thursdays and for you!
    God bless you and looking forward to what’s cookin’ tomorrow. 😉

    Reply

  6213. Hi Linda! Just stopping by to tell you I’ve nominated you for the Candle Lighter Award–no obligation, no stress–come on by and see my cool candle!! God bless You!

    Reply

  6215. Thank you, Linda, for sharing about your mom with us and putting it into a poem. Really tugs at me. How blessed I am to have my mom with me yet. Makes me want to go hug her right now . . .and send hugs to you too. God bless you and cover you, Linda, as you remember with love.

    Reply

  6217. Oh boy, do I need to do this too! And I had forgotten about that song. Thank you . .. I loved it and it’s the perfect thing to help me remember when something not needed wants to come out of my mouth. 🙂 God bless you and all the ways He is going to be glorified in you this year!

    Reply

  6219. Here you are, with a great poetic start to the New Year! God bless you, beautiful Linda, and all the poems He has just waiting to bring forth out of you!

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  6221. I will be looking forward to all that He leads you to share with us in 2012. You might find yourself writing everyday still. 🙂
    God bless you and yours and have a blessed new year!

    Reply

  6224. Thank you, Linda

    I am celebrating with you today. I thank God for your dedication and commitment to push through. I barely managed to do one per week over this year… Can’t imagine close to 400!!

    “The most important thing that will not change is that I will continue to share the love of Christ and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.”
    I like this much Linda. God be praised! I bless God for all you have shared. I have learned a lot and my family and I will be enjoying your recipes for years to come. 🙂

    May He who sees the beginning and the end as one rest upon you in a new and beautiful way. May the Holy Spirit speak peace into all your circumstances, and may each day bring you reasons to sing. 🙂

    Here’s to you and yours and another great year of blogging for His glory.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, What a sweet comment and beautiful prayer! Thank you. This made me tear up a bit. It has been such a blessing to me to connect with wonderful sisters in Christ like you. Peace and Joyous New Year, Linda

      Reply

  6226. Thank you so much for everything! I keep looking at the clock, thinking I need to move on–and then I have to read one more post of yours…. God bless you, my sister!

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  6227. Linda, this is beyond wonderful!!! I share your feelings throughout! I was so close to dumping several pounds of poetry (old yellowed typed pages), and then I stumbled on God’s destiny for me. I still pinch myself daily, as I thank Him for this wide open world of blessings. When we need encouragement, it’s so great to just go to our fave bloggers and read what they each have to share. Thank you so very much–wonderful to be Sisters!!

    Reply

    • Thank you for such a nice comment! 🙂 I am so blessed that we have connected, one of my dear sister’s in Christ! My goal in 2012 is to take more time to read other blogs. This year I’ve been so caught up and my post-a-day challenge that I’ve gotten behind on some of my favorite blogs. With yours, I now have another new fav. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Linda–I’m thrilled to know I made your “list of favs”–and I understand about the conflict of “so many blogs, so little time/energy”. It can get to be a stressful treadmill, trying to stay current–and I, for one, am praying to stand against the enemy’s “whip of obligation”. This is all meant to be fun and a blessing, not a curse or taskmaster. So, in that regard, I’m praying for all of us! God bless you abundantly today, and always.

      • Caddo, Prayer is so powerful and I appreciate yours so much! I’ve set down the “whip of obligation” when it comes to writing, but sometimes I still feel bad that I don’t read other blogs as much as I’d like. There just aren’t enough hours in the day for all the awesome blogs out there to read. Peace, Linda

  6228. Well, now I know I’m not crazy after all, what a relief! I’m having yams with my spiral ham dinner on New Year’s Day! And I’m making au gratin potatoes, as well (homemade, if you’re curious). Green beans, and probably black eye peas–because I grew up thinking it was a law. And a homemade pecan pie (though I cheat and buy the roll-out pie crust in the dairy case). Thanks so much–and you have a wonderful New Year’s!!

    Reply

    • Caddo, Check out my pecan pie recipe. I used to use the refrigerator crust, until one time the store was out. I bought a Marie Callendar’s frozen instead. It is sooooo much better! Sounds like a yummy News Years Dinner, though I’ve never had black eyed peas. 🙂 Peace and Joyous New Year’s, Linda

      Reply

      • A million thanks for the tip on Marie’s frozen crust–this will save me a lot of grief next year!! It never occurred to me to check the frozen aisle! Two hours till my guests get here, and I’m sick with a cold–can’t believe it! Never mind–I think the black eye peas will be good–I got a frozen bag, sauted a bit of red onion in bacon grease, then poured the drippings from the ham & just a little water over the peas & onion, and let them marinate in the fridge overnight–I’ll just warm them up today!! Thanks again–Lord bless you!

  6229. I’m with Linda . . .lacking that basic instinct that knows what tastes good together and what to do. 🙂 Note to self . .. be more fearless in the kitchen! I haven’t tried yams before nor cooked with them. I’ll ask my hubby what he thinks. 😉
    God bless you and yours as you share recipes with us!

    Reply

    • Deb, I learned recently that there are supposed to be 365 verses in the Bible about not fearing! So fear not! Just try it, and if it doesn’t work out, don’t make it again. 🙂 I do have a little help when it comes to spices and herbs. I have a cookbook with a chart telling you what spices and herbs go with which things. It’s a really old cookbook, but I pull it out a lot. Maybe I will use some of my Recipe Friday’s in 2012 to share the info from this chart. Peace and Joyous New Year, Linda

      Reply

  6230. I love candied yams, and really enjoyed your fb pic of the family enjoying them together. Your remark about combining ideas from web recipes is a marvel to me. That type of thing is a talent you’re either born with or not.

    Since we were limited by my husband’s injury this year, I made Lean Cuisine turkey, green beans, and mashed potatoes with cranberry relish. Some nice candied yams would have hit the spot! ; )

    Reply

    • Linda, The trick to combining and modifying recipes is to not fear failure. Because sometimes that is what happens. My turkey meatball recipe is a perfect example. I suffered through (or more accurately, my family suffered through) at least three experimental attempts that were not very good before I got it right. I think I just got lucky with the yams working out on the first try. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6231. it is pretty amazing what i have seen through blogging…3 years ago i never would have imagined the friends i would make and the lives touched…or those that have touched mine…very nice verse…

    Reply

    • It is pretty amazing. When I think about the fact that people in countries like Kenya, Indonesia, Pakistan, and many others read my blog, and I read blogs from all over the world, it is astounding. You and I would, in all likelihood, never have had any contact if not for the fact that we both blog and met through dVerse. What a wonderful blessing! Peace and Happy New Year, Linda

      Reply

  6235. This is great Linda! You can say it again! I too am grateful to be presented on a silver platter the goodness of blogging. 2011 has been much fun and looking forward to the ensuing year.Happy New Year! Excellent write!

    Hank

    Reply

    • Hank, Thank you! I’m glad you liked the poem. This Thankful Thursday theme is definitely one I will continue in 2012 as I’ve discovered that making myself focus on what I am thankful for each week helps me to just be thankful more of the time. 🙂 Happy New Year to you, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6237. Lovely thoughts…the internet is great in connecting different people from around the world to one faith and one God.

    Wishing you and your family Happy New Year !

    Reply

  6240. Lovely–I absolutely agree re the community of blogging and so interesting to have the Internet and Christian connection. Good luck next year. K.

    Reply

    • I have been quite surprised about how much I have loved blogging and reading blogs, and the interactions! It might be the extrovert in me who doesn’t get a chance to get out as much as I’d like, but I find it quite wonderful! Glad you are a part of my blogging community. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks! It was a fun one to write. When I think about all the wonderful blogging friends I have made – who I feel close to in spirit even though we have never met face to face – I am in awe of what God can do through the Internet! Glad to have met you as one of my most recent blogging friends. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6243. This one made me smile! 😀 What a wonderful idea to do a poem about. You did great! God bless you and all that He asks you to blog about in the coming year!

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  6244. I loved this reminder and how He definitely showcased it through your post a day challenge. : ) I was thinking of something just today, feeling I needed to say something, to warn that things are not going to go well . . .when this is exactly what He brought to me. Where does that show my trust of Him to take care of us in this? Keeping quiet and trusting. God bless you as you trust in Him too!

    Reply

    • Deb, Sometimes I think it is hardest to trust in the little things, but I know you do trust Him for the big things, the important things. That’s what matters. Though trusting Him in and for the little things sure makes life less stressful. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Amen, sisters Debbie and Linda! I don’t know about you two, but it seems my trust/faith level decreases when I’m just over-tired. That used to really alarm me–like, “what’s happening??” And then I went through a phase where I was sure it was an “attack of the enemy” (over spiritualizing it). But recently, God spoke to me as only a good Father would–He said, “honey lamb, you’re just tired–this will all look (& feel) better tomorrow, after you’ve had a good sleep.” That was wonderfully comforting–I didn’t have to worry and over-analyze it, and wear myself out further!!

        Love to my sisters!!!

  6245. Thank you, Linda, for your own perseverance and for sharing others who have gone through so much. I will be checking out Joan’s with my tissues. You are so good at bringing others to our attention! And encouraging us in Jesus.
    God bless you as you go through the rest of this week!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you for all your encouragement! Because God brought you into my life is one of the reasons I have been able to persevere. I’m way behind on reading your blog (and many others I love to read) and am hoping to spend a little more time reading and less writing in 2012. But who knows, the additional reading may lead to more writing! Peace in the New Year, Linda

      Reply

  6246. Yay, Linda! God is good, all the time! You can do this, faithful friend. You are almost there . .. joining the prayers to keep you and cover you until the end of the challenge and beyond.

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  6247. You are doing well and this counts, dear friend. You are assuring us who hit the wall too. Can’t wait for you to get to celebrate your post a day challenge!!! Cheering you on with Ann and Linda! God bless you and give you strength and peace these final days.

    Reply

  6248. Praying your strength, Linda
    I kept checking for your post today and silently praying (cheering) you on. I, like many others, have been blessed by your commitment as well. We thank God for helping you through this challenge.
    Only five more days! Can’t even begin to imagine how hard this has been, but I know a “well done, good and faithful servant” awaits you 🙂
    I was trying to find a song by Babbie Mason as my contribution to your Music Monday posts. It’s called Standing In The Gap 🙂
    Looking forward to the finish line post!
    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

  6249. Funny, but I was thinking of you today as I powered up my laptop and doodled around for an hour with no purpose or direction. I’ve said it before, but I can’t even imagine taking on a commitment like writing to honor God every day. Cheers to you, and enjoy your break when it gets here. Hugs… : )

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  6250. Thank you Linda, for sharing the perfect gift of Jesus with us all year long! 🙂 God bless you and yours and fill your hearts with His never ending love!

    Reply

    • Hey, Linda! Hope you get this in a timely manner (?)–I’ve nominated you for the “One Lovely Blog Award”, and my speech will be posted in a day or 2. God bless you Big–sending hugs too!

      Reply

  6253. This is so wonderful!! Well, said–glad to meet another sister (& Jesus freak). Come on over for a visit, anytime–and I’ll be back soon, too!! God bless you richly today, and throughout the New Year!!

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  6254. This had me crying here at home. I remembered that when we sang it at church, I cried, but apparently I cry anytime I hear it. 🙂 Thank you so much, Linda. What a blessing you are in my life. God bless you and this Christmas in worship of Him.

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  6255. I wonder the same thing as you– why would God want to be with me, especially knowing as a believer, who our God really is and what a sinner I really am. Some nights I get so drawn in by that wonderful gift, that I can’t thank Him enough, can’t even sleep. If people only knew Him they would know what a blessing Christmas really is. You’ve made me feel very grateful tonight! Hugs… ; )

    Reply

    • Linda, There seems to be such a push for a secular Christmas these days, for it to just be about family and kindness and giving. While family, kindness, and giving are all good things, they pale in comparison to knowing our God. It makes me sad that so many miss the wonder of that gift. I am so glad that this poem has made you feel grateful, though I know you already have so much gratitude for what God has done for you, it’s hard to believe a simple poem could increase that gratitude. 😉 Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  6256. Linda . . .I wondered when I read that title. teehee. Aubrey has a cassette tape with those Christmas songs on it. So cute. She listens to it when she swings and giggles. God bless you and yours! And a Very Merry Christmas!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve kind of run out of recipes for Recipe Friday. What’s on my list is what we eat. I may have to try some new dishes in 2012 to keep the theme going. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6258. I love the wonder of God with us too! And the poem was fantastic . . .even rhymed! I was trying to find a song by Amy Grant, an Emmanuel one, but I think she has 2. Anyway, when I hear it , I think of you as well as Jesus. Part of the words say, “God is with us, God is for us”. God bless you as you worship Him this Christmas.

    Reply

    • Deb, Casting Crowns does a song called Emmanuel, too. I wonder if it’s the same one? I haven’t posted it yet, but I might for Christmas Day. 🙂

      As for rhyming, I just use Rhyme Zone. Makes it easy to find the right word that rhymes. Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

      • Deb, That was beautiful! It is the same song that Casting Crowns does on their Christmas CD and I love it! Thank you so much for sharing it here. What an awesome Christmas blessing for me. 🙂 Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

  6261. This was really powerful, Linda . . .and a blessing, especially at this time of year. I really liked the part explaining about the term, “like Christ.” God bless you, beautiful lady Linda, with a heart for Jesus!

    Reply

    • Deb, I don’t know if I did the whole scope of this book justice, just picking out a few parts. But my hope was to convey the truth that Christ is the author and perfector of all things. He alone is all we need, and if we allow Him to live in us then all else will follow. Peace, Linda

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  6263. I remember this from last year! 🙂 Going over and God bless you Linda, as you continually find ways to help us and bless us and bless others!

    Reply

    • Deb, I have to confess that I was trying to get out of the house to go shopping with my son, and I went to check old posts from Dec. 2009 and 2010 for something to repost. I found last year’s post on this, and remembered that Jack had just posted about this on FB this morning. Seemed like a good thing to repost. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6265. Oh you’re right . . .this is a great one! I can’t help but get excited and joyful singing this or even listening to it. The light show was cool too! And what a great gift idea for you son! 🙂
    Merry Christmas to you and yours, Linda!

    Reply

    • Joan, I am so glad you have found something here on my blog that is an encouragement to you. It makes it all worthwhile to spend the time writing when I hear that readers are blessed by my words. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6268. Verse 10 touched me as well. I’ve been going through some very painful emotions as I tell the world about things I’ve kept secret. It has been very difficult and I’ve been struggling. What you’ve shared here has lifted me up today and for that I am very grateful. Blessings and Love to you, Joan

    Reply

    • Joan, Sharing the struggles you’ve been through can be very emotional and difficult. But never forget that these things were not ever a secret to God and He loves you no matter what. As you begin to share, you will find that others who read what you’ve written and have experienced similar things will be blessed by your words. It will all be worth it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6269. the psalms are such wonderful places of joy, of majesty, or entering into holy places. I am so very thankful that you wrote about this psalm because it echos through my heart. Better is one day in the presence of the lord thank anything else. I think that each of us crave that place that only God himself can satisfy.

    Reply

    • So true – I know I crave that place that only He can satisfy – everything else ends up leaving me feeling unfulfilled. Glad you enjoyed this Psalm. It really blessed my week when I read it the other day. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  6270. Linda, this is one of my favorites too. Something about verse 10 really gets me and helps put things into perspective for me. God bless you and your time with Him. 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you for sharing the perfect song to go with this Psalm! We have sung this song in church before, but I’ve never heard this version of it. It is so beautiful. 🙂 Better is one day in His courts, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6271. I would like to send you some pictures of Alice’s nativity at the Church here in Buna Texas. We have used it several years first at home then at the Church. How can we send them to you…maybe email? Thanks.

    Reply

  6272. This was very beautiful, Linda. Thank you for sharing it here and helping me to stay focused on Jesus today. And God bless you and you go, filled with Him and His presence.

    Reply

  6273. Oh I love this! 🙂 And I think we have that brand here, because I got their snickerdoodles and made them for my hubby (his favorite). And yep, they were really good and disappeared fast! Thank you for the cookie help! God bless you as you share some sweetness!

    Reply

    • Deb, I remember using Krusteaz pancake mix since forever and it’s the best, and so when I saw their cookie mix I knew it had to be good! And by rolling it in the colored sugar it makes them look so festive. 🙂 I like frosted cookies, too, but they are just so much work. But I’m off work all next week so maybe I’ll make some. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6274. This has me thinking of how sometimes people are affected by the lack of sunlight and have seasonal depression. I have a friend in Alaska and their days get really short in the winter. So thankful for His Light that we can have with us even when the darkness seems to last too long.
    God bless you and light up your Christmas and winter with His hope!

    Reply

    • Deb, This poem is actually scheduled to post at Broken Believers tomorrow, but with a different intro that mentions Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). And the short winter days in Alaska! Great minds think alike. It is wonderful that we have His Light to keep us strong in the darkness. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  6276. I love “O Holy Night,” too, but my favorite arrangement is a tossup between Celine Dion and Josh Grobin. They’re almost identical, and they both have such beautiful voices.

    Reply

    • I have not heard either of those arrangements. I will have to go to YouTube and check them out. I also like the Third Day version, but then I love anything Mac Powell sings. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  6277. Thanks for sharing, Linda.
    I very much like! 🙂

    December 21 is said to be the darkest day ( the day with the least sunlight) of the year. After that, the days start getting longer and longer, then Spring comes. I don’t like the short days, but I know that eventually light will come again and the darkness will give way.

    There are dark days in my walk with Him. I hope I remember your inspiring poem on those days! So thankful that His Light is consistently there, even on days that seem dark, dreary and dismal.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I am sorry to hear your walk is dark of late. You are in my prayers for His Light to shine in the darkness to see you through! Our God is faithful and I know He will give you the strength you lack on your own. 🙂 Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

      • I was going to ask if we’d be seeing this at Broken Believers! 🙂 I love how God just keeps providing us with messages through you!

  6278. This was so good, Linda! I love how He speaks to you from whatever is around you. 🙂 The message is just perfect and one I need to remember. He gave me a similar lesson once when our dog took off for awhile. She was gone for 11 hours and when I got her home, she was covered in ticks. I thought I’d gotten them all, but over the next few days I’d find more, engorged. yuck. And He told me that is what can happen when I don’t stay close to Him, sin and bad thoughts can get started and then if left, they grow and grow, sucking the life out of me.
    God bless you Linda, as you finish up these last weeks of the year strong in the Lord!

    Reply

    • Deb, Sometimes I wonder why God created bugs – at least the truly annoying ones – but then look at all the lessons we can learn from them? The Lord has lessons for us everywhere if we just keep our eyes and hearts open. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6279. Linda: thank for suggesting I read this. “Wrestling with” is a good way to put it as you did your comment on my blog.
    I am also wrestling with some thoughts about how faith is talked about before and after a person is saved. For example, James is not writing to non christians. His audience already had obeyed the Gospel.
    You can see where this goes. If they had faith to be saved but then did not show the actions which meant that the Faith was a dead faith, is it because they never had faith or because faith died? or maybe it was in the process of dying.
    Perhaps the parable of the sower will help on that. All soils had the word spread on them, 3 of the soils germenated and only 1 produced fruit. I would suggest that the faith died but I understand why someone would take the other side–that the faith never lived.

    Reply

    • Excellent thought! I hadn’t considered James in relation to the parable of the sower (though that is one of my favorite parables). I can see how in certain circumstances there may have been faith – real faith – that sprouted in the heart of a person, but if they didn’t cultivate it and nourish it, then it could die. In other circumstances, I do believe someone can say they have faith – give lip service to believing – but not really believe in their hearts that they need saving. It is this kind of faith that to me seems to have never lived. Thanks for checking out this post! I love comments that make me think further and deeper about a topic I thought I understood. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Well, keep reading cuz the next few verses say the same thing but with different illustrations. I AGREE on the lip service comment. God is not mocked. Sometimes we try to figure out who is and who is not saved by their ‘conversion experience’. ONLY GOD can know that. We can only look at the actions and even then we can’t serve as judges…but consider, how do WE, ourselves know, if WE believed? Maybe our actions are as much for ourselves as for others?

      • Another excellent point. Only God knows whether others are truly saved, though we can know whether we ourselves are because the Holy Spirit attests to our saving faith in our hearts. And maybe it is seeing the change in our own thoughts and actions that helps us to see what the Holy Spirit has to say on the matter? I do know that needy people who I at one time never gave a second thought to, those same people weigh heavy on my heart and often spur me to action. I also know that it is not me, but Christ living in me, who is responsible.

        After John and Psalms, I think James is one of my favorite books (though truth be told I say that about a lot of the NT, depending on what I’m pondering at the time). I will definitely be checking out the rest of your series on this book. Peace, Linda

    • Thanks. I am indeed in the Great Northwest and love it! Even with the rain I think it is the best place to live. I didn’t realize they didn’t have Freddies elsewhere – that’s sad. It’s a great place for “one stop shopping.” Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6283. Praising God with you as He keeps you posting, filling our thoughts and minds with His words and worship.
    I was extra touched by that last quote. Each Christmas He brings me a something . .. a special gift from Him . . .through people around me. Not like a gift that comes wrapped up. But like seeing Him in the mall and recognizing that He is here.
    God bless you and your obedience and love of Jesus!

    Reply

    • Deb, Why am I not surprised that you see Him wherever you look? You have such a heart for our dear Jesus! 🙂 I was just so happy at how this post came out – I truly sat down with not a thing to write. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6284. Thank you, Linda
    I like!
    I think I pretty much like most of the Christmas-themed songs, but the ones that draw me to a point of worship get my vote every time 🙂
    Growing up, this was my absolute favourite. In recent years, I find myself leaning towards “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” and ‘Silent Night’

    “I pray that you experience the wonder and joy of the Holy Night in which our Savior was born into this world that He might save us out of it, and redeem us from our sin and error. May you know the worth of your soul to the One who loves you so”
    Praying alongside you.!

    Blessings,
    ann

    (I was thinking about you this morning. I prayed for your strength as you fulfil this challenge. I post once a week …. 52 in one year and it takes a lot. Can’t imagine how I would do it for 365 days! May He continue to guide your thoughts as you share.)

    Reply

    • Ann, I love “O Come O Come Emmanuel” and “Silent Night” too. I love singing Silent Night at church on Christmas eve. Thank you so much for your obedience to pray for me when the Holy Spirit brought me to your mind. It has been a challenge to post everyday, and it is only because of Jesus that I have been able to. Just 2 1/2 more weeks and I’ll have made it the whole year! 🙂 Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  6285. That song gives me goosebumps, Linda.Thank you!!!!
    And I love your love of nativity sets too! I just have 2 right now, and one is one I’ve painted. I did it for a friend, only to find that she had done the same one for herself. haha! I’ll take a picture of that and the advent wreath (with the wrong colored candles!) to share with you soon!
    God bless you, Linda, as you bring us the blessings of Christmas.

    Reply

    • Deb, I knew you’d like this song. It’s just so beautiful! I just got your pictures. Your nativity is cute and the Advent wreath is beautiful. Next year you can get purple and pink candles. 😉 But it looks nice with the red ones, too. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  6286. I completely agree with you. It is so encouraging to know that we find our worth and value only in Christ who designed us this way!

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  6287. “We give thanks because You are near”
    🙂 How very perfect for us today. Thank you, lovely Linda, for letting the Holy Spirit guide you on what to post.
    God bless you, now and always!

    Reply

    • Oh Deb, I hadn’t even thought of how perfect that line is in the season of Advent, as the Savior draws near, as we await Emmanuel! 🙂 Thank you for pointing that out. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6289. What a blessing this is, Linda. Thank you! A friend gave me a beautiful Advent wreath, but I didn’t get the candle colors right. And I didn’t really know what each represented either. So you have been a big help!
    God bless you this special time, as you share Him with us.

    Reply

  6290. Wow . . .that is a wonderful gift! Not sure I will attempt it, but I love that you will. There is something special about what we bake and give to others. 🙂
    Thank you for sharing and God bless you as you bake!

    Reply

  6291. You are on top of your game, Linda! I give your poem an A+++ ! When I read the intro I knew this had to be a challenge. You have lifted me up with your words. Save this one for your book, and blessings to you. : )

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  6292. Oh my goodness! This is a work of art and heart! You always make these look easy, but they are not! God bless you and your love of Him during this Advent!

    Reply

  6293. Thank you, Linda

    I was thinking today that I shouold repost the “What will you do with Christmas” note. I am hearing / reading of so many who are choosing to modify their gift-giving habits so those in need can benefit. It makes my heart sing!!

    God bless you as you share His love to others.

    Thankful,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It truly is better to give than to receive. And when we give to those in need Jesus said we were giving to Him. On that first Christmas when the magi came, they gave gifts to the Savior and the gift they received in return was the privilege of worshipping Him. He is the greatest gift! Merry Christmas to you and your singing heart, Linda

      Reply

  6294. Beautiful Linda, thank you. I have a family that really doesn’t need the things that I give them and they would rather I not spend money on them. I keep wondering what I can do for them. Then this! I think that I might check with a missions close by, as they home and help people in need right here, and see if they do something similar.
    God bless you and your good advice! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, That sounds like a great idea, to check with a local mission. You could even just give money to them, then give a card (handmade?) to the family that doesn’t need anything saying you had made a donation in their honor. I bet they will love it! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6296. For two years now, our church sponsors an alternate nativity…this is where people can come and shop for Fair Trade items, buy chickens, cows for households in other countries for the people on their Christmas list. It is wonderfully attended!!
    I just sorted out my closet this afternoon of clothing I haven’t worn nor need and was thinking the very thing you wrote about today.

    Goes to show God is always at work in our hearts!!
    Blessings
    April
    Ps I have a song I am going to send your way here in the next few minutes. I think you will appreciate it and it goes well with what you are sharing.

    Reply

  6297. Thanks for sharing these Linda. I’m not at all familiar with these three.
    Mine are…
    The Bell Carol
    Christmas Is…
    Merrily on High
    I love bell songs (I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day)
    Peace and Joy!

    Reply

  6299. Aubrey is sleeping on the couch, so I can’t listen right now . .. but I’m going to! 🙂 I’ve heard Elvis’ Blue Christmas, but I”m not sure about the others, so can’t wait. My music mentor is at it again, expanding my horizons! Love it!
    God bless you, beautiful Linda, and all that you share with His from a heart turned toward God.

    Reply

  6300. I love these three so much too, Linda! Good picks! And they make me cry too. We’ll just have to keep the kleenex close this Christmas.
    God bless you and your congregation as you approach Christmas in a special way this year!

    Reply

    • Deb, I had a feeling you’d like these. 😉 You know you can join us as we learn about encountering God this Advent season. All of Pr. Dave’s sermons are posted as mp3 downloads on our website, http://www.cofaith.net. You should be able to listen right from your computer. 🙂 Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  6302. I love the song Mary Did You Know. Mark Lowry wrote the words to this beautiful song. Then, he called a good friend/musician to write the music to the song who is Buddy Greene. Buddy had already written a piece of music but had no words… he put Mark’s words to the piece that was wordless and thus we have the beautiful Christmas song Mary Did You Know? Mark Lowry and Buddy Greene share this story at the Gaither Family Festival that we attend in Gatlinburg each year.

    Christmas Blessings,
    April

    Reply

    • April, Thank you for sharing the background of this song. I heard two different versions while I was getting ready for work this morning. 🙂 Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

      • You are welcome. You may want to check out Buddy Greene music. You will like his stuff. Also, he wrote “God Bless The Broken Road” for his wife on for their anniversary years ago…Raschal Flatts just re-recorded it!! I found that out last year from Buddy Greene as he sung it at the Gaither Fest.

  6303. Always love remembering this scene from Charlie Brown at Christmas….our pastor has even talked about using it in his Christmas Day service.
    Christmas blessings!! April

    Reply

    • April, I have A Charlie Brown Christmas on DVD and we watch it every year sometime during December. Christmas just isn’t Christmas without it. I think it would be great as part of a sermon. 🙂 Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  6304. Great work, Linda. I always enjoy your commentary on the Psalms. They’re hard for me, and it’s nice to learn more.

    Believe it or not, when I was living on a boat years ago under difficult circumstances, I prayed and I knew He was with me. It must have been that empty place inside that craved Jesus even though I didn’t know it.
    Hmmm. Thanks for your teaching. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I am so glad you learn something from what I write about the Psalms. It is such an awesome book of poems / prayers to draw from when we don’t know what else to pray. I almost felt like the commentary I wrote for today was a poem itself. I may reformat it sometime into a poem. 🙂 I’m so glad Jesus knew you and called you to Himself even when you didn’t know Him. What a wonderful Savior! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6305. Yay Linda! Love this and the comments here too. 🙂
    This weekend we were house sitting and while trying to find something on a different tv and set up, there were ads for a Christmas show that talked about the real meaning of Christmas. It made me a little sad, because it wasn’t about Jesus. It might be about giving, or loving or caring, but I think we are deceived and compromised when we start thinking that that is the same thing as what Linus shared.
    God bless you and yours as you celebrate Jesus!

    Reply

    • Deb, That’s kind of how I feel about Christmas music. So much of it isn’t even about Jesus. So many people do think that if they just focus on giving instead of receiving, then they have grasped the true meaning of Christmas. But it really is all about what Jesus did and never about what we do. May you and your family have a truly Merry Christmas as you worship our dear Jesus! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6306. Linda, this was so encouraging for me today! Thank You! It could be a card! You have filled me with the desire to praise Him for all that He has done. Indeed, if not for the Lord!
    God bless you and the marvelous things He is doing as you stay by His side!

    Reply

    • Deb, If not for the Lord, indeed! 🙂 So glad this was an encouragement. I was told today by our new pastor that I have the gift of encouragement. 🙂 Then I see I’ve used it here today! I think there is a verse in one of Paul’s letters about encouraging one another. I am so blessed to have you encouraging me, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6309. Well LInda, Certainly your poem is a symbol in itself as are all the things that you refer to throughout. The cross has marked the spot throughout the history of man – it takes on meaning beyond Roman persecution and the crucifixion for it has been woven into myth and legend all over the world. Here you present it as a concrete poem to represent your belief and as a symbol of your faith. Well done.

    Reply

    • Gay, Thank you! I hadn’t really thought about it in this way – I have so much to learn about poetic terminology. Your post was such a great lesson, and you’ve continued it here in your comment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6310. “Glory to God in the highest…” If we could just get that point across… that He is real and to glorify and honor Him brings Him so much joy. It’s the simplest thing in the world. If Linus gets it, why can’t everyone else.

    Cute, Linda… but serious too.

    Reply

    • Linda, Linus is the first place I really ever heard the Gospel. Just listening to him explain the truth to poor lost Charlie Brown brings tears to my eyes every time.

      It is true that understanding God is real and to glorify Him brings Him joy, but it brings us joy, too! It is so simple. I pray more people will understand. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  6316. Linda, you’ve brought back memories of me making ham and beans. My dad used to love it, and I tried it for my hubby, but not as successfully. But duh . . .I never thought about canned beans! That was the thing, I was soaking and cooking dried beans forever it seems, trying to do it like my mom did.
    God bless you and your good use of leftovers! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve tried dried beans before, but they never get as tender and tasty as ones out of a can. I don’t think I ever had enough patience. I use canned beans for chili, too. 🙂 You just have to be sure to rinse them in a collander to get all that canned bean goo out. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6318. What a great book you found, and then you shared it with us! What a friend you are! 🙂 This was a wonderful poem! I don’t think I’ve read his work before, so thank you for introducing me.
    God bless you, beautiful Linda, and all the surprises He brings to you!

    Reply

    • Deb, There was just something about this poem that really spoke to me. I’ve read it 5 or 6 times already. I’m glad you liked it, too. 🙂 It was fun to share. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6320. I love how God got you to take that advice. He’s so good . . .and the scripture you shared was so perfect for me too.
    God bless you Linda, and all the ways He leads you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love that this scripture was perfect for you today, too! I finished 1 John this morning and read another chapter of Ezekiel, and it didn’t even take any nudging. I don’t have perfect quiet during that time because my son and husband are getting ready to leave, but it’s quiet enough to focus on some scripture. 🙂 Plus I didn’t miss anything on email, blog, or Facebook. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6322. Thank you Linda for sharing and just being honest enough to do that. I realized I hadn’t been quite as joyful as usual. Come to find out, I haven’t been as thankful either and I really have to stay that way all the time or things go down hill fast.
    God bless you as He counsels you and you share the good advice!

    Reply

  6323. God bless you, beautiful Linda, for doing Christmas music Monday posts! 🙂 I love Christmas music and our local Christian radio station goes to 100% Christmas music after Thanksgiving.
    This is one of my favorite too. I remember the friend I have in Jerusalem, Israel, sharing about this song being sung out in a pubic gathering of some sort . . .and how the power of His Spirit could be so tangibly felt.

    Reply

    • Deb, I knew you’d like this one, and I thought of your friend in Jerusalem when I decided to post it! 🙂 I’m looking forward to Christmas Music Monday’s, too, but I don’t know how I’m going to narrow my favorites down to such a short list. I might have to throw in a few Music Wednesdays or Saturdays, or maybe hit three at once on Tuesday. 😉 Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  6324. Thanks for visiting my blog and sharing your story of the close encounter with a coyote (wolf) yes, whichever it was, it would’ve been too close for comfort, really. 🙂

    Reply

    • You’re welcome. I wish I had time to visit more of the poetry blogs that link over at dVerse, but there’s always something else that needs to be done. I’m glad I chose yours to check out. Your poem was very good. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6325. Thank you Linda for subscribing to my blog. God is truly bringing some wonderful people together from around the world. That is just like our God. He is the Sovereign God!

    Iron sharpens iron.

    GOD BLESS AND TELL THE LORD THANK YOU!

    Your sister in Christ! Debra

    Reply

    • Debra, It is wonderful how the Lord has lead me to so many wonderful Christian blogs, and has given me the strength and wisdom to keep up with my own. As we say at the close of every service in my church, “Thanks be to God.” Peace, Linda

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  6326. Oh I loved this and it has been too long since I read it! Thank you again for doing Psalm Sunday. Verse 35, where the desert is turned into flowing springs . . .this happened in Israel, where they were able to irrigate and grow all kinds of things. And then I think about the desert places in my own life and the lives of others . . .He does the same in them!
    God bless you, beautiful Linda, for helping us to thank Him today!

    Reply

    • Deb, I think my favorite part of this Psalm is the repetition of these two stanzas:

      Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,
      and he saved them from their distress.
      and
      Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love
      and his wonderful deeds for men.

      If we cry out to the Lord when we are in distress, He is always faithful in His love and will rescue us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6327. “Those He redeem from the friend of the foe.” I like that and it’s familiar. I may steal that one for my own story!

    “Rebelious ways, and iniquities… He rescued them from the grave.” Isn’t it curious that things haven’t changed much over thousands of years? I too am so grateful for so much, and when I tell that to God, my prayer life flourishes. Nice fitting post. Thanks!

    Reply

    • Linda, That is so true about how gratefulness improves our prayer life immensely! Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and is ever faithful to answer the grateful and humble prayer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6329. Thank you so much, Linda, for showing us how being humble and thankful go hand in hand. And vice versa . . .being proud and ungrateful. I need to start saying thank you for everything, immediately, especially the hard things.
    God bless you and your forth coming book! 🙂 You will let us know, right? I gotta have one.

    Reply

    • Deb, Just today I went to Powell’s, our locally owned bookstore, and did a search on their database for Christian poetry books. There weren’t very many, and I bought one that includes poems by a variety of poets, as well as some Psalms and other scriptural poems. I was encouraged that a book of Christian poetry would be filling a niche that doesn’t have much in it. 🙂 I do think I need a few more poems to make a whole book, but I’ll be sure to let you know when it’s available. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6330. Linda, I loved this so so much. One of your best . . .but I may say that about all of them. 😉 I think there is a destructive wild, a rebellious wild and then what some may call the good wild is the freedom we have in Him, that Spirit thing (as the Newsboys sing of it). That’s my take anyway . . .thank you!!!! God bless you and the Divine life inside!

    Reply

  6332. I can understand the sense of feeling an enemy within, of working hopelessly against one’s self, of being in a hole and desperately needing a hand out. From what I know of Johnny Cash’s life, he struggled with this for years. It’s another way of seeing the wild, of something to be feared.

    Reply

    • Mark, Johnny Cash certainly did struggle for most of his life with his inner enemy, which manifested in drug addiction. But he also had great period of peace within. He is one of my favorite musical artists in large part because I can relate to his struggles and he was so honest about them in the end. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6333. Our hearts contain that duel citizenship. The mystery…Christ in you, the hope of glory. There is a fine line between freedom and wildness…often hard to distinguish between the two…whether we need to or not.

    Reply

    • You are certainly entitled to your opinion and I appreciate that you are bold enough to share it. My own experience with modern psychology is that it did not give me peace, but rather stirred up the wild within me. It is only Christ who has ever brought me peace and meekness of spirit. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6335. This is beautiful…specially the last verse:

    I’ll not know tameness
    nor escape from this hell
    unless the divine
    in my heart does dwell

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  6336. i would agree as well there is a wild in all of us…i understand the use of tame and wild in this…i would say though that in many ways our interpretations of the gospels have more neutered us and a few more men (and women) could use some john the baptist or jesus wildness…

    Reply

    • Brian, Thanks for the thoughtful comment. I agree that there is another persective on wildness and tameness that flips which is good and which is bad. A little Jesus wildness – He certainly wasn’t tame by the standards of the Pharisees – would be good for all of us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6338. hmmmm… This was quite effective for me, reminiscent of Blake’s Songs of Experience, in a good way. There’s a literalness to the sentiments that you express that makes it real for me, which is what a lot if religious poetry often lacks. Good stuff!

    Reply

    • Charles, I’m not familiar with Blake, but will have to check it out. I appreciate your thoughtful comment. I write what I know, and that is my own need for Christ. I am grateful that it comes across as so real. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6340. there is a wild in us that shouldn’t be tamed i think but set free and there is another wild in us that needs careful observation as it is immensely powerful and highly dangerous… not always easy to know which is which…good thoughts here linda

    Reply

    • Claudia, I don’t disagree with that; there are two sides of every coin. I know from experience I am unable to tame that latter, highly dangerous wild on my own. Perhaps it isn’t possible to set the former wild free either, without Divine help. Hmmmm. I’ll have to think about that. Peace, Linda

      P.S. Fixed your typo. 😉

      Reply

    • LeRoy, I have been thinking about doing a book of poetry. Thank you for the encouragement to see it through. I have at least 75 poems so far, and so have a few more to go to have enough for a book, but will keep at it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6342. Linda, I’m so blessed when you share recipes. And blessed that you don’t do a turkey either. I’m the only one who likes turkey too, so just go with the flow of what others here will eat! Thanks for sharing your goodies of the day with us! God bless you and yours and your thankful heart!

    Reply

  6343. “Immanuel, God with us, better than life” – loved that, Linda. And that Isaiah verse with your poem and Thanksgiving . . .so beautiful. Thank you for always showing us Jesus, the One we are so thankful for. God bless you and yours, now and always!

    Reply

    • Deb, Jesus is definitely the One I am most thankful for! I know it’s the same for you. 🙂 Where would we be without Him? Hope you and yours had a wonderful Thanksgiving Day! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6344. Thanks for sharing Linda

    I was hungry before I opened your post, but now I am simply ravenous and would top this off my mom’s sweet potato dessert. 🙂

    Oh man…. I am truly hungry. Gotta go nibble on some succulent nuts and have a refreshing drink of filtered water 🙂

    ( Who am I kidding, really? There’s no ham in that!! lol Please pass the platter 🙂 )

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • LeRoy, Thank you! I am thankful that anyone reads my posts. 🙂 I am also thankful for a wonderful community of Christian bloggers here on WordPress, of which you are one of my favorites. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6347. Lovely poem! Thanks for sharing!
    I loved it when you said, “No matter what I start with in a thankful poem, I always end up at Christ. Perhaps that is really where I should start”!
    I am sure I will quote you one day, when I write about giving thanks!

    Reply

    • Mike, Thank you! What a nice comment. 🙂 I have found that when Christ is at the center of our thoughts, thankfulness becomes second nature. It’s nice to “meet” others who feel the same. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6348. I’m so thankful that the lady who invited me to church told me that I didn’t need to take a bath before I took a bath. 🙂 Because I definitely didn’t feel like I was good enough to go to church. She took me under her wing, hugged me when I came in the door, and led me up to the front row seat she saved me with her family. This went on every Sunday until I gave birth to our first little girl. Then I needed to sit at the back for hasty get aways. haha! I’m not sure I would’ve made it if I had had to go on my own right at the start.
    God bless you as you encourage us to believe in Him and obey because we love Him.

    Reply

  6350. It was simpler then. When Peter and Paul taught about Jesus, the message was motivated by love, not politics or power. Religion is a scary place today (except for you and Pastor Dave : ) It’s hard enough to be accepted at church as a believer, so why should the unsaved sinner think he has a chance? Knowing Christ is so easy. But church is really hard.

    Reply

    • Linda, Sadly, I cannot disagree with you. It shouldn’t be that way, but often it is. Though I’m not so sure it was that much easier in the early church. Even then there were those who wanted to insist on conforming to the law of Moses, and the apostles had to correct this error. But as long as we can find and know Christ in spite of the religious, we’ll be okay. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6351. Your pastor sounds wonderful, Linda, just like someone I’d like to meet and your church sounds like people I’d love to worship and serve with. happy sigh! Great Tuesday three!
    God bless you and these days ahead, loving Him!

    Reply

  6352. A real radio controlled car? I like what a real picture that paints of the church, the leadership, and who belongs where. That says alot about his own humility, don’t you think? I bet I would really like him, too.

    My mom’s Lutheran church is in a holding pattern, waiting for the right pastor. I pray they will find a man like Pastor Dave.

    Reply

    • Linda, Yes, a real radio controlled car – bright yellow Mustang (I think). 😉 Humility is a good word to describe Pr. Dave. I bet you would like him, too. I will pray for your mom’s church, that they can find a pastor who always places Christ front and center, and is willing to serve as their sheepdog and let Jesus be the Shepherd. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6353. We hadn’t heard this song for awhile, beautiful Linda, and it really blessed us. Just the thing we needed tonight . . .another wonderful gift to be thankful for. . .His love. 🙂
    God bless you and yours with His forever love!

    Reply

  6354. Why am I struggling so hard to get this? I like the way you always point out the Holy Spirit’s role in things, and I can see the Psalm as written by His hand. Maybe it’s because more Psalms are written by David than to David?

    I think it’s hard to figure out verses where Jesus is called God. Or maybe I just need to study a little more… Thanks for all you do. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I don’t think there are clearly some verses that refer to Jesus and other that refer to David. For me it is all intertwined, with both meanings being present. Seeing Christ in the Old Testament really opened up for me when I read Luke 24:13-35 one time, where it says Jesus was talking to two disciples after His resurrection, and it says, “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.” Right then and there I prayed that whenever I was reading the Old Testament that the Holy Spirit would show me where Jesus was. God has been faithful to answer that prayer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Even when I got out my Message Bible, the intertwining that you mention is still there, even in it’s simplest translation. It’s just not like solving for x. It’s not math. While I was in the Message, I looked up Luke 24:13-35, and that story is so beautifully written, I could almost watch the scene unflold. I never thought about asking the Holy Spirit to show me Jesus in the Old Testament, but I will now. Still learning… thanks!

  6355. I agree with Debbie. Alot of this is new even though I was raised in the Lutheran church. My mom, however, loves church holidays and the familiar routine that goes with them.

    You are such a good teacher, and I would look forward to learning more and being able to share that with her. Thanks for writing your blog. I appreciate you… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, Thank you! Now I have two encouragers. 😉 Teaching is definitely one of God’s gifts to me, and I love to use it to teach about Him. There is no better use, as far as I’m concerned. Funny you should mention familiar routine. I drove a friend to her church today because her ride fell through. She said she really wanted to go because they were having communion and hadn’t in a long time. I couldn’t believe it; we have communion twice a month! And I hate when I miss a communion Sunday for anything. At least with my faith, I am a creature of habit because those habits give me comfort and draw me closer to God. It is in Him alone that I find consistency in a life that otherwise is incredibly inconsistent. Anyway, I’m rambling. Glad you liked the post. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Interesting thoughts about communion. Not long ago I quit a chuch that only served communion twice a year, and then only to church members. It was like spraying a can of Jesus repellant all over the rest of us. Communion is too beautiful to be denied. Humbug.

      • I know, I love Communion. I remember one time visiting my husband’s uncle’s Wisconsin Synod Lutheran church in Minnesota, and they wouldn’t let my son, who had been taking Communion for over a year in our church, participate because he hadn’t been confirmed yet. He was very upset. Peace, Linda

  6356. “since God has blessed you forever” . . .That blessed me, thinking of Jesus being blessed forever, and us through Him. Thank you for always finding the Psalm that we need to read on Sundays. God bless you as He guides you through your upcoming week!

    Reply

    • Deb, I suppose eventually I will have gotten all the way through the Psalms; then I’ll have to decide whether to start over again or move on to something else. 🙂 I trust God will help me decide when the time comes. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6357. Thank you, Linda

    Beatiful Psalm , isn’t it? I still recall the early years when we participated in choral speaking presentations. The King James was our preferred translation “My heart is inditing a good matter: I speak of the things which I have made touching the king: my tongue is the pen of a ready writer…”

    “But beyond that I love this Psalm because although it was written in part for David as King, because the Holy Spirit was in the writing of it there is a foreshadowing of Christ as the ultimate and final King”
    Thanks for taking the time to share the wonder of our King with us. I like the piece you shared on May your tongue always “be the pen of a ready writer”.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I think what I like best about Psalm Sunday is that it gives me a reason to read and contemplate Psalms other than my “favorites.” Even though I’ve read them all before, more than once, each one seems new. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • i perhaps should not admit this, but i love king james, and the psalms seem richer and more powerful when i read them in king james.
      Thank you for bringing psalm 45 into a fresh and encouraging light. I just love the psalms, and that is the one book i retreat to when i need to draw near the lord. keep writing!!!

      Reply

      • I don’t think there is anything wrong with loving the King James Version. My first Bible was a KJV. But the first Bible I owned that I really read and used for Bible study was the New International Version (NIV) so it is my favorite. And I love the Psalms in just about any translation! They are so beautiful and are my refuges, too. Peace, Linda

  6358. Thank you Linda! Another informative and worshipful post. There is so much that I don’t know, and this is one of the many things. I didn’t know about Christ the King Sunday. 🙂 What a blessing and I am excited as I think about going through the year with Him.
    God bless you and your congregation and the new shepherd God has given you! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, One thing I really love about attending a Lutheran church is learning about the liturgy and the various days of the church year. I’ve only highlighted a few of these in the past, but I think over the next year I want to try to cover all of the different seasons of the church. I’m glad this post was such a blessing to you! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6359. Wonderful, Linda 🙂 Quite beautiful indeed. Thanks for sharing!
    I am counting down the days to December 31st, but I hope He will continue to inspire your thoughts as you share your love for Him with us 😉
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, You’re too funny! I suspect that after Dec. 31 I will continue to post almost every day, but I am looking forward to not feeling compelled by some challenge to post even on days when I just don’t have time or am not feeling well. Also, I need to start working on a book about forgiveness that’s been percolating in the back of my brain and welling up in my heart of late. It’s hard to work full time, raise a teenager, be on my church board of elders, blog daily, and get anything accomplished on a book. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6360. Linda, thanx for sharing your beautiful poem. I’m glad I inspired you, but I must share what inspired me. I am taking my LAST ministry class (Exploring Christian Ministry) of the 24 I started a little over four years ago. This class is taught by Dana Benscoter, a good friend, mentor and one who had a big influence along the road that eventually led to my call into ministry. He is great at painting a picture, telling a story, and bringing the call, discipleship and what our mission as disciples is, to life. I missed the first night, I was sick. Monday was the second night of class. One of the guys shared about what Dana had talked about the previous Monday night and the impact it had had on him over the last week. Dana had shown a picture of Jesus on the Cross and talked about how he expresses his gratitude every morning that he (Dana) is not on the cross. In class I began picturing my face in place of Jesus’ face on the cross and like every time I think about it, I began to be overwhelmed with the hugeness of the gift He gave me, the price He paid for ME. It slays me every time I think about it…

    Take me into the holy of holies
    Take me in by the blood of the lamb
    Take me into the holy of holies
    Take the coal, touch my lips, here I am

    Reply

    • Patty, Thank you for allowing Jesus to use you to be my inspiration for this poem. Your class sounds like a great one. I would love to go back to school and get a theology or divinity degree, but I don’t believe that is really God’s plan for me. Expressing my own gratitude for His sacrifice for me is part of His plan for my life, though, and that is why I write this blog. I completely understand that overwhelming feeling – it brings tears of joy and anguish whenever I really think about it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6361. I think that is my favorite cookbook too, Linda! Mine has pages falling out, some stained from much use, and many of my favorite things have come from there . . .like the apple crumb pie I like to make that everyone always likes. That is why I like it so much. Most of the recipes I’ve tried at least, tasted good too! yay!
    God bless you and watch over you this weekend, bringing you joy and rest in Him.

    Reply

    • Deb, I have some pages that want to fall out, too! And a few stains. 😉 Thank you for the prayer for my weekend. We are installing our new pastor on Sunday, and I’m sooooooo excited! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6362. Wow. I really like this. Love the format, it tells a story even without the words. “He couldn’t do anything less…” Y’know, I hate that Jesus had to die that way. I know it had to be, but I can’t reconcile how the cross is beautiful the way everone says.

    That was great. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I think I wrote a post once about how beautiful the cross is to me. If I didn’t, I should. It’s a beauty that brings tears to my eyes whenever I think on it too hard. Glad you liked the poem. I enjoyed writing it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6363. Thank you, beautiful Linda, for our thankful Thursday poem. I love how you formatted this. I can picture it in gold letters as a bookmark for our Bibles. 🙂
    God bless you as you keep us looking to Him and all He has done for us, with thankful hearts.

    Reply

    • Deb, My wonderful encourager! I love that idea of making this into a bookmark. I’ve made and laminated bookmarks before for a women’s retreat. There are women in our church who still keep those bookmarks in their Bibles. But none of them had a poem I had written on them. I just may have to make that happen. 🙂 If I do, I will definitely send you one. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Connie, This blog has become a compulsion pushed forward by the Holy Spirit. Now that I’ve been sharing my faith in this way for over two years, I don’t think I could ever give it up. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Interesting article you wrote. I do see some similarities with my post. However, I do think our primary points are a little different. I was pointing out that it is Jesus who changes us from sinner to saint, and that we should not expect others to make that change themselves before they can come to church or be loved by God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6367. thanks for this, Linda, I’ll be certain to have a look through! I love ‘it is well with my soul’ – possibly my favourite hymn, of all. love, char

    Reply

    • Char, I think the only hymn I like better than “It is well with my soul” is “Amazing Grace.” I hope you find some songs on this list, and the one from the prior Monday, that are an encouragement to you. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6368. Linda, this is just so perfect for today . . .everyday. Thinking of Jim’s post challenges recently. Praying to be a friend of sinners that doesn’t condemn, but doesn’t just leave them there like that either . . .a friend that leads them to Jesus. God bless you and how He leads you to lead others.

    Reply

    • Deb, I just think that is so important to remember that Jesus doesn’t want to leave us in our sin, but that we really have no power over it on our own. We need Him, and that’s the message I want to share with the wounded. Thank you for your encouragement of my attempts to do just that. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6369. “A teacher, a prophet, a friend of sinners.” Based on Jim’s challenge this week, I’m preaching that message to my AA group. They find it hard to believe.

    A man can’t imagine that he can be forgiven by God when he can’t begin to forgive himself… how much he needs Jesus.

    Great poem, Linda. Priceless message.

    Reply

    • Linda, Wow! That is profound: “A man can’t imagine that he can be forgiven by God when he can’t begin to forgive himself.” I wonder if the judgmental nature of the church has anything to do with that? Good for you for sharing this message of grace and mercy with your AA group and pointing them to our Redeemer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6370. Beautiful job, beautiful Linda . .. as usual! 🙂 I didn’t realize you hadn’t done a Tuesday three on the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. I loved how each stanza ended in redeeming His creation. So thankful to be redeemed today! God bless you as you honor Him today!

    Reply

    • Deb, I did do another poem called “Holy, Holy, Holy” that was about Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but it wasn’t for My Tuesday Three. 🙂 I am thankful to be redeemed, also, and thankful for the role of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the redemption of Creation. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6371. Nice poem. We’ve been talking in our church about how people seem to neglate the holy spirt and focus on God the father and God the son. I might have to share this with my life group.. they’ll appritiate it.

    Reply

  6372. This is a good list for me to explore when I’m home alone during the day and I can blast the music the way I like.

    Maybe other people feel this way, but when life is sweet (as it is for me today) I’m in no big hurry to tune in. However… when I need God the most, I’m singing my heart out. Lacking maturity, but true.

    Reply

    • Linda, I can hardly get through a day without music – preferably Christian rock. I listen to my iPod in a docking station while I’m in the shower and getting ready for work. I listen to CDs in the car on the way to and from work. And I listen to my iPod with headphones while I make dinner. I hope you find something encouraging on this list, whether life is sweet or not quite so. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6373. Aubrey is sleeping by the computer right now, but I’m going to play us these later. I recognize some, but don’t know others, so we’ll be blessed and ministered to, thanks to you and our Jesus!
    God bless you, beautiful music mentor Linda, and all the ways He works through you!

    Reply

  6375. But as for me, I trust in You.
    As Ann says above, I will own this today. 🙂
    God bless you, beautiful Linda, as you share the Psalms and His love with us today. I liked how it went with yesterdays post too!!!

    Reply

  6376. Thank you , Linda

    “Cast your cares on the LORD
    and he will sustain you;
    he will never let the righteous fall.”
    I will own this today.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6377. Thank you, Linda

    The practicality of this piece and the timeliness is proof perfect of His amazing grace!!
    I am happy to pass on this link.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6378. I love how you think, how He created you. I didn’t see where this was going at first, just so caught up in the story of your son. 🙂 So smiled big and adding to God’s prayers to consider today, as I pray for you. God bless you and have a great weekend!

    Reply

    • Deb, I guess I should have mentioned that Learning Rx was one of His answers to my prayers. Didn’t think of that when I was writing. 😉 I love how He created all of us just a little different so that we all can help see a little bit more of Him in how we share. Thank you for your prayers today. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6379. Linda, this was a very well-put post. Freedom is not free. Throughout God’s word we read of battles commanded by our Lord. They were battles against evil and the promotion of evil. Even in Revelation, we read about the final battle – the battle of all battles against evil. Even our spiritual freedom requires a battle. God is not for war, Satan is. So, in Revelation 19:11-21 we read a description of our Savior, with “His robe dipped in blood and His name is called The Word of God.”

    Our Lord has fought valiantly for us and is victorious. We have a lot to be thankful for. We need to thank our veterans for their willingness to maintain our earthly freedoms — and thank our Lord for His willingness to suffer and die for our sins. Thank you for another great post.

    Reply

    • Margaret, Thank you for this excellent comment that has added so much to my post! “God is not for war, Satan is.” Sadly, Satan has deceived many into believing God is a warmongerer. But the only thing God wars against is evil. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6381. Thank you so much, Linda. This was excellent. As much as I like recipe Friday, this was needed more. I understand people’s dislike for war too. But I can’t help but think how those in the armed services feel when people are expressing their protest against war. Even if we didn’t agree with a war or the circumstances surrounding it, I pray that we forfeit those disagreements and focus on supporting the ones who are serving in the midst of it. God bless you and those who lay down their lives each day.

    Reply

  6382. I think its great you chose your own work. That gets you directly to the essence of the challenge which stepping outside of your role as a visionary into the role of a nuts and bolts editor. By chosing a previous work, changing the medium/presentation/approach you have met this challenge in the most wonderful way!
    First off, I really liked your original story — it opens up in a way that reminds me of the Katherine Mansfield short story, “Bliss” — but it takes a very different term — but deals with important issues and works wonderfully as a metaphor.

    Your conversion of this into the poem, emphasizes the metaphor even more and brings a conciseness and focus greater than that you would be able to acheive in a traditonal short story format.

    Very well done!

    Reply

    • Thank you for such a wonderul comment! This was a really great exercise. I found it interesting as I worked on the poem how certain elements and word that seemed essential to fill out the short story were surplus baggage that weighed down the verse. Thank you for the challenge. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6388. Linda, Linda, Linda. . .I loved it, loved it , loved it! You did a wonderful job with this form and with the message too!! Yay! I’m cheering Jesus and you. God bless you!

    Reply

  6391. I love the Crossroads as a poem too!! So glad you used it! 🙂 Very powerful and pointed. God bless you as He keeps guiding you and your writing for Him. I am praying for you, for doors to be opened for the writing and speaking skills He has given you.

    Reply

  6393. Thank you, Linda
    Very nice 🙂
    “Neither willing to go with the other …Neither willing to go on alone” I like the sense of suspended animation

    Not sure why I thought of :
    1. Lot’s wife
    2 Abraham & Lot
    3. Ananias & Sapphire

    Thanks again for sharing.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  6394. nice…i love those last 4 lines…neither to go alone…or together…yet they will stay…like the symbolism of a cross roads as well and how it marries that conundrum

    Reply

    • Brian, I liked that ending, too. The short story continued on for quite a bit, but it seems the poem said all there was that needed to be said when I wrote the short story. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • I guess as long as you are still at the crossroads you haven’t made a choice on which way to go and there’s still hope of making the right choice. It is scary, though, to have the choice before you. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6397. At it’s best, I think the modern law serves as a deterrent. Since Conrad Murray was convicted, hopefully no one will kill anyone with Diprovan again.

    Not only are hearts not changed, the justice system has become such a side show– a form of late night entertainment– that we all become Pharisees and spectators.

    What an interesting post, Linda. And thanks for including different versions from one of my favorite chapters. Thanks for being so honest… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, Given the recidivism rate of convicted felons, I’m not sure how much of a deterrent the law is. As they say, it keeps the honest ones honest. And the civil laws don’t seem to keep mega-corporations from cutting corners out of greed and putting out faulty products that cost lives. It certainly hasn’t deterred big tobacco much! But it’s better than what a lot of contries have. I’m just thankful for God’s way, for grace and mercy, and His ability to change hearts. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6398. Linda, I loved how you showed us in law terms of today, how the law doesn’t fix us. Thank you so much. I , too, think there is something special about you going to law school, that He is using everyday. God bless you as you keep pointing us to the only One who can save us . . .Jesus!

    Reply

    • Deb, The law is important, just as the law of Moses was important to show us what we cannot do on our own and what is the right thing to do. But without Jesus, without forgiveness, the law just isn’t enough. I am glad I went to law school, though when I think of the student loans I still have to repay sometimes I wonder. 😉 But God provides and uses it all to His glory! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6399. You even rhymed here with grammar geek and Jesus freak. 🙂 Thank you for keeping us all on our toes and all nodding our heads in agreement that our days of praising Him are uncountable. Yay! You have put the happy in my Tuesday!
    God bless you as you read , write, and listen, always on the look out for His truth!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad I put the happy in your Tuesday! 🙂 That makes me happy, too. I usually say I’m a grammer curmudgeon, but that doesn’t rhyme with much of anything. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6400. Good stuff, Linda (Grammar Geek, Jesus Freak 🙂 )
    Thank you for sharing. Good to know I am normal … I think 🙂
    I like your analysis of Amazing Grace. Beautiful song, but he newer versions don’t sing about the “wretch” … I hear worm, and one, but the wretches have all been saved, I take it. lol
    Isn’t it amazing that we have as long as we have lived and many more days to sing His praise? I am looking forward! (At least then I will be able to sing, sing, sing and write nary a report! 😉
    By the way, you did share yuur Tuesday Three 🙂 : “love to write, and love to read. I also love words in music.” 😉
    Blessings,
    ann

    By the way, I know your twin!! 🙂 . I also know the parents, siblings and cousins of those who do the ‘sneak-by’ check-out. My beloved is notorious for counting out loud as the shopper puts the items on the counter 🙂

    I shall go now and rest my hyperactive, sleep-deprived self. 🙂 Thanks for the message and the smiles.

    Reply

    • Ann, We actually have one store near us called Whole Foods that has a grammatically correct sign in its express line – 15 items or fewer. 🙂 It always makes me smile. Thanks for pointing out that I did, indeed, include My Tuesday Three. Now go get some sleep. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6402. Thank you, Linda

    This is beautiful 🙂 Now I know where to find the ‘hope nest’ . lol

    Blessings,
    ann

    P.S. – Is Israel Houghton’s “I am not forgotten” on your part two? 😉 (wink, wink) lol

    Reply

    • Ann, I don’t have any Israel Houghton on my iPod, but I will check it out on YouTube. I know there is going to be a lot of good music I miss in my list, and I appreciate any suggestions. 🙂

      Reply

  6403. Wonderful how you tied this into Mt. Reading the poem I felt like a blind person must feel who doesn’t know color and then tied it in to spiritual blindness. Wow, Linda. Glad you took this prompt and ran with it!

    Reply

    • Thank you! One thing I love about poetry is that the reader can draw something different from – but related to – what the writer had in mind. I never once thought of Matthew when I was writing this. My only thought was of my struggle with depression and how the Light of Jesus saved me from that darkness. But so much more can be found in my words, and that is wonderful! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6404. Linda. . .thank you for putting together that wonderful list of songs, to encourage and give hope when we need it most. You are a blessing and a help. I will be coming and listening off and on for days! God bless you and all that He puts you to!

    Reply

  6406. Thank you, Linda
    “Nothing that man has ever done deserves the glory that belongs to God alone.”
    Amen. May we be careful to remember that.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6407. Oh I really love that first stanza too. And vs. 14 and 15 make wonderful prayers for others. Thank you so much for Psalm Sundays. They always bless me! God bless you as you give Him all the glory! love and prayers for your week ahead.

    Reply

  6410. If you’d ever like to share a playlist of hopeful music, music that is particularly helpful to people who are in less than hopeful situations, I’d appreciate it. I’m particularly interested in music that I can share with young adults or older teens, music that is both honest and hopeful. God’s peace to you!

    Reply

    • Steve, That is a great idea! I will work on that for an upcoming Music Monday post. Don’t know if I’ll be able to get it done for tomorrow, but definitely by next week. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6412. You can express what we feel in your poems so well, Linda. A beautiful gift . . .a healing with words. I remember those days of darkness , even when the sun was shining. So thankful that He came and colored my world! God bless you as you live in the Light!

    Reply

  6414. nice…imagine for a second you were one of the blind that Jesus heals and all the sudden sensory information that would come flooding in that first time you saw color…

    Reply

    • Brian, When I wrote this I was thinking of spiritual darkness and depression, but this is an interesting exercise to imagine being like the man born literally blind who Jesus healed as an adult. To suddenly see when you never could before would be . . . I don’t even know what word would describe it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • i agree…and i can def see the direction you came from as well….thanks for shining a light in on dverse …you are appreciated…

      • Thanks Brian. I appreciate your encouragement, and all the folks at dVerse do to encourage poets in general. Hard to believe it’s been a year! As they say, time flies when you are having fun. Peace, Linda

  6415. I love pears too, and as a little little girl, I remember having a pear tree in our yard. 🙂 What sweet memories and desserts you bring to me / us! I want to make this one too and might not wait for Thanksgiving . . .
    God bless you and all the good He brings us through you!

    Reply

    • Deb, We just had to chop down our pear tree this year and I miss it already! Pears from the store just aren’t quite the same. I’m glad I was able to bring back some sweet memories for you! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6418. Linda, I think your writing keeps getting better and better. I loved the verbs you chose to use with each one. It just built and built to a wonderful ending. yay! And I loved how much it blessed Ann and was like God designed it for her situation. wow!
    God bless you as He keeps you thinking of Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are such a wonderful encourager! If my writing is getting better it’s only because I have determined to focus on Jesus and glorify Him, and He has made my writing better. What a wonderful God we serve! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. I like your analogy of antidotes for natural poisons, only they are antidotes for spiritual poisons. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6420. Thank you, Linda!!!

    I just had to deal with an uncomfortable situation. Wrong was done and I took it upon myself to ask the authority in the room to resolve an issue that had been ignored. It was tough talk, but we needed to hear it. Can you imagine my shock and joy when I read your poem?! So much ‘confusion… anger… hatred… fear…’, pain and hurt was sitting there all dressed up and pretentious but ‘truth …forgiveness … love …faith’ , understanding and compassion exposed and soothed at the same time! How great is our God?!!! As if that wasn’t enough you added His words. I am thrilled to bits when I look at it on the large scale of having peace in Jesus, regardless!!

    When the announcement came out for the post-a-day challenge, I opted out. I am happy you decided to do it and I continue to pray for your strength as you post what God lays on your heart to share with us each day. I don’t always get to comment but I always read. I thank you for every single day you have posted but I am especially grateful for this poem today.

    May His hand continue to be upon you, especially in the times when the pain feels unbearable. I am so glad He is working all things for your good.

    Blessings, with much thanksgiving,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for your wonderful words of encouragement! I love how God works things out so that that truth all falls into place, and I love when He gives me an idea for a post that resonates so perfectly with others who read it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6421. Thank you so much, Linda. for this post and for all the music you bring us. 🙂 I, too, used to listen to less than encouraging tunes. I remember one was a song about suicide . . .not helpful for me!!! Many would tell me that they just like the music, didn’t pay attention to the lyrics, but that wasn’t the case for me. I was definitely influenced by the lyrics too. Was so thankful when someone told me about Christian music after I came to Jesus! I had given up the other stuff, but missed having music in my life. And now I have you!!! 🙂
    God bless you and your music ministry for Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, I think even those who say they don’t listen to the lyrics are still influenced by what they hear. But I’m like you – I always pay attention to the lyrics of a song. I was so pleased when I discovered good Christian music in styles I enjoy, and I Iove sharing it. It is such a blessing to me to be a blessing to you and others by my sharing and encouraging. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6422. I love your blog. Music is a powerful force for good or for evil. I am blessed to say that I grew up in a home where music was a part of our life… and if it wasn’t classical, i broke the silence with rock…. or my mom would be working in the kitchen with the cool jazz and big band sounds. Music is a gift from Jesus to make this life tolerable, bearable. Keep writing. Don;t Stop. And I am glad that you have found answers to those deep emotions of loss.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. I do love a lot of styles of music – so long as the lyrics are encouraging. I agree that music is one of Jesus’ gifts to help us through, along with the gifts of His word and the Holy Spirit. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6423. Thank you, Linda

    How great is our God! I am amazed at how He loves and how He forgives. To hear it once per day is wonderful enough. To have it three times in one post is ultra cool!!! Thanks for the demonstrations of His priceless love.

    A line from my second favourite song says “forgiven and pure, You call me Yours.” This hits home. hard. I no longer struggle with what’s behind me, but some days the memories visit. In those moments, I am thankful that I am forgiven. Thanks for reminding me today.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Every once in a while the baggage of my past comes back to try to drag me down – it happened recently – and it is then that songs like these come on my iPod and I am reminded that I’m forgiven. I’m happy and blessed to be able to pass on that reminder to others. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6425. I am so glad I took the time to come over here and read this morning. I had forgotten about Martin Luther’s struggle. It is a struggle that I share…baggage from my early doctrinal training as a kid and also as a young adult. Being alone at home with the book of Romans…and Ephesians …set me free, as well. That is what the truth has been promised to do. 🙂

    Reply

    • Theresa, It is sad that there are still churches today who teach a doctrine devoid of grace, teaching that people are required to earn their own salvation. I am so glad the Lord spoke to you through Romans and Ephesians (2 of my top 5 favorite books of the Bible) and helped you to know and trust that you are forgiven! Thanks for sharing your own path to finding him. It gives me hope. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6426. What a great Tuesday three about forgiveness. And that’s so, so important to know, isn’t it . . .that we can be forgiven and are forgiven in Christ. I know it’s a basic, but sometimes as life goes on and things happen, I can be harder on myself.
    Do you like a particular Skillet CD, Linda, more than another?
    I didn’t realize that it was Sanctus Real that sang “Forgiven”. ! I love that one too!
    And thanks for the introduction to Los Lonely Boys. 🙂
    God bless you and thank you for your ministry to us, the forgiven!

    Reply

  6429. Linda . . .I loved it and so appreciate you sharing it with us today. Aubrey was bobbing to it! 🙂 It goes rather nicely with Jim’s post today too!
    God bless you as you keep thinking of Jesus and letting Him shine in all you do. Praying for your appointment tomorrow!

    Reply

  6430. I am always overjoyed at how He lines up the Psalm with what is happening in your life. 🙂
    “my heart trusts in Him and I am helped”. That says so much right there! God bless you and be your Help all through this coming week.

    Reply

  6433. Linda, thank you so much for sharing this! I loved learning those things about Martin Luther and how he no longer worked for his salvation. 🙂 That just blesses me. God is so good and He made a way . . .His way.
    God bless you and comfort you as you must face the send off of a pastor that you love and appreciate. Praying he comes back often, for some visits and fill-ins!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad this was an encouragement to you. 🙂 I am always encouraged when I think of Luther and all he went through to bring the Gospel to the people. Thanks for your prayers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • April, Thanks! It will be a wonderful Sunday, except for the sad part of it being our interim pastor’s last day. As we searched for our permanent lead pastor we knew this day would come, but he will be missed. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6436. Thanks, Linda
    Memories can be such beautiful things. Thanks for helping me add to mine. 🙂
    Christmas dinner will be different in more ways than one this year 😉
    What Deb said about layers and layers of His love. @ Deb: that is so you! 🙂
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, If you make these for Christmas dinner, I definitely want to hear the story of how well they were received and how long they lasted! 😉 Thanks for the prayers, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6437. Yum! I loved the story behind these too. I will make sure the edges are straight as well . . .that’s important, right? 😉
    God bless you as you continue to post in pain. Praying for layers and layers of His love to cover you today.

    Reply

    • Deb, Maintaining the straightness of the edge of the bars is essential . . . to proper enjoyment of their deliciousness! 😉 Thank you for your prayers. I definitely feel that I am beeing prayed for. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6439. You show His love wonderfully in this poem. Love it! Thinking of you, with love and prayers, for His love to cover you and hold you close tonight.

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you. I really wanted to write more, but I just didn’t have the time. At some point I might go back and expand this poem to have a stanza for each of the characteristics of love listed in 1 Corinthians 13, but this will have to do for now. Thank you for your prayers. I know that it is the prayers of others that have been getting me through this past week or two. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6441. My heart aches some at this, because the poem is so genuine and comes from a reality of what you know and live. God bless you, Linda, as you combine the reality of your pain with honest prayer to your Lord, the Maker and Healer of all. love and prayers!

    Reply

    • John, Thank you. I appreciate the prayers. I know that God answers prayers and will not allow more pain in my life than I can handle with His help. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6447. Linda,
    Thank you for sharing these quotes. These are some of my favorite authors/speakers! Hope you are having a week full of blessings!
    April

    Reply

  6448. I liked them all, equally well! Thank you for giving us something good to think about. God bless you as He rejoices over you today! (gleaned from Ben at Justified Freely )

    Reply

  6449. Thanks for sharing, Linda

    My responses vary from ‘not good’ to ‘this too shall pass’ and everything in between. I like the definition from anewlifeofhope. I hope I remember that the next time someone tells me they’re fine :-)I like watching people’s reactions when I tell them how I’m really doing. Sometimes I tell them “you don’t want to know…” 🙂

    “This is “because “fine” is the socially acceptable answer to “how are you” we never know how others truly are doing.”
    Indeed. This is such a horrible lie that believers have been speaking to each other for years. I have friends who tell me to speak the good only, but I find that strange when the Christ himself admitted to being thirsty and asked the Father to take the cup away, if possible.

    As sister Pat reminded me today, His strength is perfected in my weakness. I will step back and let Him be strong. I am so looking for the day when the things that limit us here will not even be in our memories.

    Thanks for your honesty and for pointing us towards speaking what we feel. If we tell others how we feel they may find out we’re not super beings after all.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I also look forward to the day when the things that limit us here are not even in our memories, when the pain that has me struggling through simple tasks is no more. As we share how we really are, I think it is important to remember that when we are weak, He is strong and point people to Jesus as our source of strength. “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” Even things I can’t do on my own. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6450. Linda, I loved how when you and Katherine told others something other than “fine” it helped them to open up too. And then we know how to pray for each other. I see honesty and truth and trust being worked out here! 🙂
    Aubrey’s sleeping by the computer, so will come back and listen to Sanctus Real real soon.
    God bless you, Linda, and all the ways you allow Him to touch others through you.

    Reply

    • Deb, So much of the world knows nothing of honesty, truth, and trust, and that is sad. But we can each do our little part to help reveal those things to others and allow Jesus to make the world a better place. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6451. Thank you. Shared this on Facebooks. I never say just fine, always surprises others when I say things like, “Hoping things get better.” or “Down but not out.” and then I ask “How about you?” Cashiers are forced to ask this and usually my response and asking them gets a smile and an honest answer back.

    Stay strong.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I sometimes answer honestly, too, and it does seem to take people by surprise. But I find that those are the people who will eventually let me know how they are really doing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6452. This is so true. Satan wants us to deceive others by saying that we are ‘fine’ or okay. I believe that we are in a sense deceiving others when we say we are fine we really aren’t. I once had a teacher that explained that fine really stands for “Feelings Internalized Not Expressed.” It stuck with me ever since then. Thank you for sharing today! It really does take a strong person to say how he/she is really feeling.

    Reply

  6453. I love the verses you did too . . .and verse 12 . . .My feet stand on level ground. We can say that because of Him, even when everything feels tilted and sliding away.
    God bless you and your love and heart for Him!

    Reply

  6454. Thank you, Linda. This is so good and so needed. I am praying that it helps someone right now, who believes God is punishing them for their sins, that they might come to Him and know that they are forgiven and set free.
    God bless you and how you share His truth to comfort us and lead us to Him!

    Reply

  6455. Thank you, Linda! I almost always have left over stew. This looks much more fun than just reheating.:) God bless you as you inspire us in the kitchen! Praying for you a good weekend!

    Reply

    • Theresa, Thank you for your prayers. I have fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis in my neck (most likely because I’ve been rearended 5 times 🙁 ). I’ve had both for at least 15 years. I do have long periods when I feel fine, but sometimes it is a bit overwhelming. But I love how God uses my pain, and the poems and posts that it inspires, to help and encourage others. Wha an awesome God! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thank you. I actually have a bunch of family who live 4 hours away coming to visit this weekend and am so excited! It’s not that far, but still we don’t see them as much as I’d like. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6460. Linda, He is working so beautifully through your poems and your pain. The poem puts words to what we feel but can’t always express. That’s why we need you to do it! So thankful for your prayers, and your poems and all that He is doing in us all.
    God bless you and comfort you, bringing healing and help to you in your pain.

    Reply

    • Deb, It is a strange thing to be “thankful” for, and there was a time that I found nothing thankful in pain. But I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me, even count it pure joy when I’m in pain. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Jim, When my doctor came into the exam room last night I told her I was writing a poem for Thankful Thursday. She said, “I like that.” The I told her the title and she said she didn’t like that. But when I explained it was about finding the silver lining she agreed it was probably cathartic. But my favorite thing about having written this poem is to know it helped someone else. 🙂 You all continue to be in my prayers, because I care. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6464. I love how He brought this connection to you! How He uses whatever it is we do for His glory. So excited about just how simple this is, when everything else is peeled away. You have helped us simplify our prayers for and with others too, Linda . . .that they simply believe. God bless you and all the ways He speaks through you!

    Reply

    • Deb, It is just so wonderfully simple, isn’t it? 🙂 I love how you translated this in to a message of how to pray for those who don’t believe, too! It is so sweet how you are always thinking of others. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6465. Thank you, Linda
    Great post! Would make a beautiful ministry tool for law students 😉
    Blessings
    ann

    P.S. – thanks for the prayers. Our God is faithful!

    Reply

    • Ann, I do know some lawyers who read my blog. 😉 I do love when God uses the knowledge I have gained to make connections like this in my mind and helps me to put it into writing.

      You are quite welcome on the prayers! That’s what friends are there for. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6467. Linda, thank you so much for sharing these poets and their poems here. All of them were so impacting. I see why you picked them!!! Wow. Lots to think about after reading them. God bless you as you continue to write and share and connect us all!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad you liked them. It felt good to get back to the roots of My Tuesday Three, even if two of the three blogs aren’t even on WordPress. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6469. Linda,
    Haha, yet another thing in common, I was a fan of Cash, and read “A Man Called Cash” a few years ago when it came out. I actually thoght the book, which was supposed to be very accurate was far more redeeming than the movie. They supposedly put some things into the movie to keep it moving, or make it juicy. Cash was a good man, one who would openly admit his many flaws, but a man who loved God. I think my favorite song that Cash did was “hurt”, the NIN song. He did a video with it, and it was clear to me, very clear, that the video was a goodbye. He wanted to send a message with the video to young folks, that chasing materialism will get you nowhere, life is about God and loved ones. His message came through to me loud and clear. Thanks for jogging my memory. God Bless-Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, I love the Hurt video, too. But I think my favorite song by him (if I can even pick one) is Wayfaring Stranger. I saw the movie, too, but after having read so much about him was quite underwhelmed. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6470. Yes, belief is a hard thing for some relationships to successfully navigate. I also believe that friendships can survive different beliefs. I don’t think we are meant to cling to only those like us. Perhaps in time, your friend will realize you meant no harm and reconcile. I hope so 🙂

    Reply

  6471. Okay, tears. 🙂 Good ones. I was wondering about the music video part of your post for today, but since it was about one of God’s musicians, I thought maybe that covered it. You gave us more! yay!
    God bless you, Linda, as He sings through your life today!

    Reply

    • That was kind of sneaky of me, wans’t it. 😉 But I’m glad it got a smile from you. I listened to Johnny Cash on my iPod all afternoon yesterday while I worked around the house. Almost needed to carry around a pack of tissues! I love this song because it reminds me that Johnny is in heaven right now and has heard Jesus say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • I have no doubt he will. It never ceases to amaze me how many people I talk to who love the Man in Black, as he was known. I have 5 Johnny Cash t-shirts and I always get comments when I wear them. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6473. Linda, somehow I had forgotten about this, about how it’s our redemption stories, sharing about where we were at and what we were doing and how He saved us from all of that. How could I forget this???? Thank you and Ann for reminding me today!
    And as He would lead, I shared a simple poem I had prayed when trying to give up drugs and alcohol. Someone is going to share it with the girls she goes to minister to in prison tonight. How good is our God!
    God bless you as you keep being led by Him and let Him work through all of you.

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m a firm believer that our stories of redemption are the most important things we can share with others. It is something they can’t really disagree with. They can argue with our theology, but they can’t argue with our experiences of redemption. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6475. Thanks Linda

    Wonderful, wonderful piece!

    “He had to show that despite our faults and weaknesses – or maybe because of them – God loves each and every one of us.”
    Thank God for the Holy Spirit! You posted Psalm 23 for me yesterday and today you share my thoughts out loud. Thanks for being His hands and feet and voice … many, many, many suffer in silence daily because they have never experienced His love.

    Praying…

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I do love when the Holy Spirit has us fellow bloggers in sync. Hope all is going well with you and your busy schedule. You are in my prayers today. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • LeRoy, I think people like Johnny, who are real and open about who they are and what God has done, are a better witness to God’s love than any preacher who has lived a spotless life. People can relate and see that redemption is possible for them, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6478. Linda, God bless you
    It s sad to have to do that, but you aren’t the one who made the choice, she is. You are a great example sister, I am happy to know you
    God Bless-Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, Thanks. I appreciate the encouragement. Two of our mutual friends have said the same thing. She remains in my prayers and I know that anything is possible with our God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6480. Wonderful post Linda! It’s a very nice Psalm indeed. In a sense this Psalm and Psalm 91 have protection aspect to them. Maybe that’s why they’re well known, especially this one. Good job. I’ve subscribed!

    Reply

    • Thanks. I post a differnt Psalm every Sunday, at least I will until I get through them all. The Psalms are indeed a good place to go for prayers of protection. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6481. So beautiful Linda. Thank you! How is it that whatever Psalm you do on Sundays, it always blesses me? 🙂 Interestingly enough, Pastor J is going through this Psalm at Reinventing the We’ll.
    God bless you as He lovingly shepherds you today!

    Reply

  6483. Thank you, Linda

    I am so glad you posted this today!! I was at church thinking about the Psalm and I decided to share on it tomorrow if you didn’t post it today. 🙂 How great is our God!

    “May the Lord be your shepherd as you walk through the dark valleys of this world.”
    Thank you, and right back at ya!

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

  6485. Linda,
    this is a very appropriate example of those taboo topics. In my humble opinion, the reason it is taboo is because people don’t like to hear about things that they disagree with (hence the taboo – don’t talk about it because it makes people feel “uncomfortable.”) I have been in similiar situations not related to religion but with other taboo topics and unfortunately, friendships were altered and even lost because of what I revealed about myself.

    It hurt bad to be rejected by someone I trusted because she found out something about me that she didn’t understand. And therein lies the relief to my pain – it is not because of who I am that caused the riff in the friendship, it was her lack of understanding that did. Sad, but something that I cannot control unless I want to lie to people about who I really am which seems to never work out well for my sanity 😉

    Thanks for posting this, Linda. I know that it was a difficult situation to put out there and I admire your decision to go forth and be “fearless” 🙂 One more thing I have to say because since reading your post I cannot get it out of my mind: Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
    Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

    Reply

    • Sheila, Thank you for such a thoughtful comment. I am sorry you have also experienced a rift in friendship for just being who you are. But you are right, it is the lack of understanding that really is at the core of the rejection. My friend and I have another friend who tried to help her understand that, but I don’t know how successful the effort was. Thank you for the verse, too. 🙂 It’s one I hold onto at times like this. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Sheila, I too thank you for your comment! Thank you for helping me see about how the lack of understanding causes the uncomfortableness and then the rift. You have helped me pray for more understanding tonight. 🙂

      Reply

      • cool – I love it when God puts the words in my head that I merely need to speak in order to be of service to Him. Makes me want to do a happy dance 🙂

  6486. Linda… I am so glad you wrote this. No doubt, God has you in your friend’s life for a reason. He hears your prayers whether you see progress in her faith or not. The Holy Spirit can soften even the hardest hearts, and while you might not be the person who leads your friend to Christ, you were an important messenger along the way to showing her the truth.

    I know you know all that. Just don’t ever give up. God could be dealing with her right now, at this moment. I’ve seen those results in someone I love, and it can happen for her, too. I’ll add her to my list…

    Sadly, ’bout the only place you can pray in the name of Jesus in public, is during the invocation at a NASCAR race. God bless America.

    Hugs to you… you’re a good friend. ; )

    Reply

    • Linda, Thank you for the encouragement. I do know all of what you said, but it is helpful to be reminded sometimes. 🙂 There is one other place you can pray in Jesus’ name – in church! They can’t take that away. Thank you for your prayers for my friend. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6487. The beauty of this planet is that there are various beliefs, etc. I respect all religions and find beauty in each one. My God may be anothers Buddha.. I am sorry she rejected your sincere prayer…

    you retold this well.. (I still feel a mite low your feelings were hurt.. not nice at all)

    Reply

    • Thank you. It was a hard story to retell, but I felt it needed retelling. God has given us freewill, and I am so thankful for that. I don’t think she said what she said to be “not nice.” It does hurt, though, that she doesn’t understand where I am coming from. I will love her nonetheless. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6488. I cried reading this. Thank you, Linda, for sharing your heart with us this way. It has me thinking of someone else who also has an estranged non-believing friend . . .and what more can you do? You have loved her and still do. You welcome her, forgive her, .and you can do that because of Him.
    God bless you, sweet friend, and give you peace.

    Reply

    • Deb, I cried writing it, too. 🙁 I do still love my friend, and I always will. I pray for her often. Thank you for your encouragment. You are always so good at encouraging me. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6489. Hi Linda. Nice poem to which I can totally relate. Sometimes truth will offend people. Jesus said it would be that way. A few years ago my husband and I were teaching a lady a Bible study on water baptism. In every instance in the book of Acts where people were actually baptized, it was always in the name of Jesus Christ, so this is what we teach and practice. This lady had previously been baptized differently and in the middle of the Bible study, she stopped my husband and said, “Are you telling me I am not saved?” In her mind, we were judging her, which was not our intent. We were simply trying to share what the Bible says about salvation and baptism. She never came back to church. I remember when my mother-in-law was a smoker and got offended at my husband and I because we refused to violate our convictions by going out and buying her cigarettes. Fortunately, she got over the offense and said that she knew we were right in what we did. It just made her angry at the time. Yes, offenses will come, and in each situation we must make a choice of what we value more, pleasing those whom we might offend or pleasing God. May God help us to make the right choice. Thanks again for a great poem. 🙂

    Reply

    • Carol, Thanks. It can be hard to stand up for what we believe when others take offense, but thankfully the Holy Spirit helps us in that regard. I appreciate the thoughtful comment. Glad you liked the poem. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6490. not being Christian, and living in this country, i can tell you that i feel like living in the US is like living in a Christian country, and not one of total religious tolerance and coexistence. I feel that it’s being pushed on me a lot, so I can understand her reaction.

    this is why i feel that people of different religions can never coexist, because the only was to coexist is for each person who is religious to just not mention anything about their religion at all, unless it was agreed upon before. there is always someone who is just not going to like hearing it, otherwise, and it will spoil a mood.

    i was raised Jewish. but i don’t like to go to synagogue, i don’t like religion at all, yet so many people i know translate things i say and believe as if it came from Judaism, when it didn’t at all, it came from something that was science, or even paganism. just some people know that their thoughts come from their beliefs, so they think everyone thinks like them. you constantly have to explain yourself.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a thoughtful comment. I try not to push my faith on others, but to treat others as Jesus has called me to – with love and compassion. I suspect I am not always successful in that, but I try. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6491. i was just talking to someone the other day trying explain how WBC could believe the same yet act so different…see here is where i struggle…if you are my friend love me..we may not agree but i hear your stuff all the time so let me talk about my life…belief is a part of it so like me or not…

    Reply

    • Brian, I think that is why this incident with my friend is so hard. I have always just loved her. My prayer was me showing love for all who were hurting. I have never stopped her from talking about her life – I have always listened and expressed how much I care, offered help when needed. But I am not allowed to just be who I am in her presence without the fear of offending. She once said to me that she had never known anyone for whom their faith was so all encompassing of their life, and that is what was hard for her. But for me, if my faith doesn’t drive who I am and how I treat others then it’s useless. I’m not perfect at this “love my neighbor” thing, but it’s what I strive for. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6495. Oh this sounds so good! Thank you! I’m also just as excited that you found a recipe that you like!!!! Now you don’t have to wait for good bread pudding some where else. It’s right inside your kitchen.
    God bless you as you share His blessing and goodness with us!

    Reply

    • Deb, When I made this it ended up being my breakfast a couple of days. I figure it’s bread, eggs, and fruit – how can you go wrong with that for breakfast? I will definitely be making this again! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6496. Your poem is sweet and endearing, and I agree with Debby that it paints such a clear picture of those in need.

    Not to sound like a grump, but… My best friend has a son who is homeless. She walked the streets of downtown Cleveland yesterday until God put them face to face. She took a handful of PB&J sandwiches out of her bag, walked with him to a carry-out and bought him cigarettes. When he said, “Mom, can I have 30-bucks,” she told him she refused to put $30 straight into his veins.

    I’m big on hugs, smiles, prayers, and soup! And providing a meal, clothes, and blankets goes a long way too, to offer compassion. But I’ve learned the hard way through my friend Mallory where all the cash goes.

    Hope you’re doing better today, Linda… I was happy to find Thankful Thursday when I got here! Hugs… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I agree that giving cash is not the best option. I’ve bought a hot meal for a homeless guy in downtown Portland, or a gift card for a fast food restaurant. Thanks for your prayers; I am feeling a bit better today. I can feel all the prayers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Oops. I will try to have some food and water handy for the next time we pass by that way! So thankful you are feeling some better. Will keep praying.

      • Deb, Breakfast bars are a handy thing to keep handy in the car for such occasions. But I wouldn’t worry too much about giving a few dollars cash. I’ve done that too, especially when my son is in the car because he wants to give something. I think the lesson of compassion for our kids is worth the risk that the money may not go to what we would think is the right thing. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      • Sweet Linda. . .thank you for encouraging me in this and seeing the lesson of compassion. 🙂 You are such a special instrument of HIs!

  6497. Linda! I llloooovvvveeeeddd this. You didn’t just write about compassion . . .you showed us what it is, what it looks like.
    You may see homeless people often, I’m not sure. But I don’t. We live in a little town, and don’t see anyone here. Where we travel into the next city, a bigger city, we never see anyone either. Until today. And it broke my heart. She had a sign beside an exit ramp and I handed her out some money. Then later, there was an older gentleman, but I couldn’t get to him from the lane I was in. I can’t forget them and it was so hard to leave them there. You are the first one I told, because my family (besides Aubrey, who was with me and can’t forget them either) wouldn’t understand. Will tell me it was most likely a scam. And I would rather have been scammed then to not respond, to not let my heart be touched by another’s need.
    God bless you, Linda, and the compassion you have for the hurting and pain of others.

    Reply

    • Deb, In the small city I live in we don’t see the homeless, but you don’t have to go too far to see them. And on a sunny day in downtown Portland they are everywhere you look. It is very sad and breaks my heart. Bless you for responding, even if it might be a scam. I know sometimes the people on freeway offramps are part of a “scam” but who’s to say they aren’t begging there because they can’t find any other job. They might beef up the story a bit to make them sound more needy than they are, but I think you are providing Aubrey with a great lesson in compassion by helping them out. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, Yes, the Jesus factor! I think compassion is also asking “How are you?” and really wanting to know the answer. I could have made this poem so much longer, as there are so many other ways compassion is shared. But I had to stop some time. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Ha!
        That concept was the basis of a heated group discussion. 🙂 My thoughts are, why ask if you don’t want to know? Don’t ask and then cut people off with “good to know!” without even hearing what they had to say. 🙁 ( I was tied and burned at the stake for that! lol)

        When I ask, I want to know. I want to know how I can help you make it better… Asking suggests I have an interest in your well being and I genuinely want to know how you are doing. Is that a bad thing?

        not sure why someone would ask just for the sake of asking but my group seemed to think that was acceptable…

        blessings,
        ann

      • Ann, I agree with you. Why ask if you don’t want to know? But it does seem to have become the socially acceptable greeting – “Hi, how ya doin’?” – but not socially acceptable to answer with anything but “Fine, and you?” I’ve actually posted on this topic before. I might have to find that article and repost, or use it as a starting point for another post. And the next time you ask how I’m doing, I’ll let you know. 🙂 Peace, Linda

  6500. All truly fascinating. I’ve read about this sickness and how people who don’t have it can’t imagine that it could hurt that bad.

    Bipolar disorder = invisible pain. If you look normal you must be normal. Even my mom doesn’t believe there’s anything wrong with me.

    I’m really glad you wrote about this, Linda. It’s therapeutic, isn’t it? Satan must be working overtime given the number of blog friends who are suffering with various conditions right now. It’s so hard to fight when everything hurts.

    Already praying for you… hugs : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I truly appreciate the prayers. All of us with “invisible pain” need each others prayers. I’m glad this post was encouraging for you; it was therapeutic for me to write. And if Satan thinks he’s going to succeed in derailing us, he’s got another think coming, because God will use our pain for His glory when we rest in Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6501. Hi Linda
    I meant to tell you … I have been praying for you. I didn’t know why, but I have been praying. Will continue.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you. I love it when the Holy Spirit leads us to pray for others even if we don’t know what there need is. What a wonderful blessing to know you’ve been listening. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6502. Linda
    I will be praying for toy in your pain. You are a great encourager, always lifting everyone else up, I apprciate it. I will pray that your pain will ease, and that they will wine an cure for your fibromyalgia. God Bless-Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, It is interesting how being an encouragement to others serves to lift me up, I end up being encouraged, too. 🙂 I could just go hide in my room and not post, not try to be an encouragement even when I am struggling, but I know that would just make me feel worse instead of better. Thank you for your prayers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • You bet Sis, I looked back over what I write earlier, and it is clear the meds were steering my fingers, haha. We need to get well so we can get back to being warriors for Christ, eh? You are a great encouragement!

  6503. Oh yes, Linda, I am praying for you. And thank you for praying for me and for Aubrey. When she was younger, it was even harder for people to understand, to “see” anything wrong with her. It was thought to be behavioral, lack of good parenting on my part.
    Also, you help me understand my mom’s pain better, so thank you for blessing me that way. I know that things like getting her blood pressure checked hurt her and when they put that rubber band around her arm, before drawing blood, she almost cries. It makes me want to cry too, for her. Big help I am! Now I want to ask her if maybe I shouldn’t hug her, even though I try to be gentle . . .
    God bless you and give you comfort from your pain today, and a peace from His understanding and love of you.

    Reply

    • Deb, You are such a wonderful encouragement to me! I will keep your mom in my prayers, too. I can relate to the rubber band thing – I hate to have blood taken not because of the needle but the rubber band being put on my arm. It is so frustrating to have things hurt that don’t seem like they should. I remember when we went to Cancun about 6 years ago and my husband and I both had our hair braided in corn rows. He thought it was great, like he was getting a scalp massage. I thought I was going to die because it hurt my head so bad to have her pulling on my hair to braid it – felt like she was going to pull the hair right out of my head! But the good thing is that it has taught me compassion for others. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks. God is trying to tell me something, but it’s not to give up writing each day. There are other things that He is calling me to give up, things that are not beneficial for me or a blessing to others. Thank you for the confirmation. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6506. Linda, I was thinking of you today and praying. I think three quote Tuesdays sound wonderful, to me! 🙂 I was blessed by the last quote . . .go and touch someone with His restoring love. Thank you for so often being that person who touches with His restoring love. God bless you and touch and restore your body today. love and prayers!

    Reply

  6507. Linda! You don’t have to write when you’re sick and in pain. Only the Pharisees did stuff like that! ; ) Hahaha…

    I’m not sure why you’re feeling so bad, but when I was crippled with a migraine, I simply bailed. Sometimes there’s no other choice, it happens to everyone.

    I don’t have a great quote to share, but I will definitely pray for you whatever it is you’re going through. (God knows.) You contribute so much to the blogosphere and your friends who learn from your work. Don’t be discouraged, don’t feel guilty. Give yourself a break. ; ) Hugs…

    Reply

    • Linda, Thanks. I appreciate the “encouragement.” 😉 I know I don’t have to post every day, but it is something I want to follow through with. It actually helps me to cope with whatever is going on. Tonight I wrote and scheduled tomorrow’s post, which is more about my pain and what helps me through, in hopes of helping someone else. If I didn’t do that I would feel like Satan had defeated me. But have no fear, come Jan. 1, 2012, the post-a-day challenge is over and I will be skipping days when I have nothing to write! 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6508. Thanks! I like the Luther quote a lot & strive to actually do what he says when I preach! Sometimes in our church, we do conversation sermons, in which the people work alongside the “preacher” to share how the gospel connects to this issues in their lives and in the news. It’s always amazing and powerful. Dietrich Bonhoeffer (another great German theologian!) said that Christ shows up in the space where the Word as written in scripture, the preacher, and the congregation meet. I like to imagine Christ standing right there in the middle of that holy triangle, when preaching! Peace to you, Amy

    Reply

  6510. Very nice, it does indeed invoke that deeep tugging at your heart. If only sound in most any form wasn’t hard. I hope you are feeling better. I am praying for you. GB-Jim

    Reply

  6511. Linda, so sorry to hear about you not feeling good at this time either. Yet still, you brought us such a beautiful music Monday. I must be extra sensitive right now because these songs brought tears. Thank you! God bless you and heal you in Jesus name.

    Reply

  6513. Thanks Linda,
    This is a great encouragement,
    Casting Crowns is my favorite group, I couldn’t see them, they were here on 9-23 with the same people u saw them with, but my girls had homecoming that night, and we couldn’t go. I saw them before, and theyare awesome. Please keep me in your prayers if you will, this migraine thing is really dragging me under lately, having a hard time getting out from under it this time. I am sorry you are having issues with it too, will pray for you too. Larry wrote something interesting about migraines on my next to last post and their connedction to demons that you would find interesting i thing. God Bless, we will get thro this with prayer-Jim

    Reply

  6514. Linda,
    I read this the other dayt, and can reall y relate to this, wanted to connent earlier but have been having migraine probs. I have this same issue somethines, and I am glad u talked about it. very greta post sis. God Bless

    Reply

    • Jim, Sorry to hear about the migraines. Must be Satan’s tool of choice this week – I’ve had one the last two days, too. And Linda over at Shoes also. Glad you were blessed and encouraged by this post. It helps me in my struggles to write about them. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6515. I was soooo blessed by this . . .the Psalm itself blew me away in how much it ministered to me, today, where I am at. And the song! Now I will never read that Psalm again without thinking of this song. Loved it!
    Feeling safe and loved and praising Him, under the shadow of His wings, while Aubrey is having seizures this weekend.
    God bless you, Linda, as you let Him direct your blog to reach out to us!

    Reply

    • Deb, I am sorry to hear Aubrey is struggling with seizures. I will keep you both in my prayers. So glad I could remind you that you are in the shadow of His wing always. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6518. Thank you so much for this post, Linda. I have done that before, and will probably do it again . . .but with His help will remember to take it to Him to see what the truth about it is.
    God bless you as you keep taking us to Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, Sometimes I wonder why God puts up with me, but then I remember that He loves me no matter what.:) So glad He always helps me find my way back to the truth. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6520. Okay, now I’m hungry! Aubrey, at times, is a big toasted cheese eater. 🙂 She likes velveeta on hers! haha! Thank you so much for thinking of us and helping us out! God bless you during soup and toasted cheese time!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve never been a big fan of Velveeta, but we did use to do Kraft American cheese slices a lot when my son was young. Now he’s the one who always wants provolone. 🙂 But his best friend won’t eat cheese of any kind! I don’t understand how anyone can hate cheese – it’s such gooey, tastey goodness! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6522. Sliced sourdough bread and Monterey jack cheese. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it!

    I tend to cook them on a lower heat–and I put a lid on the frying pan after I flip them. These maneuvers ensure that the cheese has time to melt without the bread/butter getting singed.

    Reply

    • Sourdough is definitely a great choice for bread. I can see how you would need to cook it lower and longer with Monterey Jack as it doen’t melt as quickly as provolone, Swiss, or havarti. Thanks for adding your tips. Mmmmm, love grilled cheese! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6523. I’m so glad you have Roman! 🙂 We don’t have a dog any more, but were housesitting again this last Wed. through Sunday, so get to be blessed by their dogs. Those little faces and eyes and how they turn their heads trying so hard to understand what I’m saying. . .Definitely a gift and something to be thankful for!
    God bless you and your special friend with fur!

    Reply

  6524. I think the most amazing prayer recorded in Scripture is Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 4:13
    “Till we all come . . . . . unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ”
    or as the Amplified puts it: “nothing less than the standard height of Christ’s own perfection”
    What a mind-boggling concept! Christlikeness!
    I can only tie it in with 1 John 3:2 “When He appears we shall be LIKE HIM for we shall see Him as He is”

    What an amazing God!

    Reply

    • Angela, It was hard to just pick three prayers for this post, there are so many good ones in scripture. I love the two you pointed out. I love that we are being made more and more like Christ through His power each day. Sometimes that working can seem painful and hard, but I know it is well worth it as I become more Christ-like! He is amazing, indeed. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6525. Thanks, Linda

    Beautiful post. Thanks for sharing 🙂

    “if God gives us a talent and we use it to His glory, He will give us the ability to succeed.”
    Just today I thought of my new responsibilities and the need to balance them with everything else on my plate. Today I felt so inadequate in the midst of a crisis but after my episode, He reminded me that I can do (what He wants me to do), through Him.

    Thank you for this timely reminder. I needed it. Needed, like really, really needed it 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6528. lovely wonders.

    I believe that your role to your brother may change as time passes, let it be natural.

    bless you and your family.
    lovely topic.

    Reply

  6530. God’s timing is wonderful… I have been going through a series of bible study at church on this very topic. We all have talent but unfortunately, we don’t always use them either because we let fear and doubt take over or we use them in the wrong way. May all of our talents be used and used for His glory.
    Wonderful post!
    Blessings,
    April

    Reply

    • April, God’s timing is perfect! I pray all those in your Bible study will be blessed by the study you are doing on using our talents for God. I echo your prayer that all our talents be used for His glory. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6531. This was so encouraging, Linda. Thank you! I loved the fourth point, that we will succeed when we use our talents for God . . .not necessarily in the worlds eyes, but in His eyes, for His Kingdom. That really blessed me.
    God bless you as you use what you’ve been given for Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, Your comment is a perfect example of how my use of my talents for God’s glory produced fruit – the fruit of encouragement! 🙂 I know that you are definitely a success in His eyes as a result of your wonderful blog, as well as the love and care you give to Aubrey and your husband. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6532. Great post today and thanks for sharing your pastor’s sermon
    We can all learn from each others teachings and talents
    Prayers for your day

    Reply

    • I have learned a lot from our interim pastor’s teachings, as well as his talent for just caring for others and trusting in God’s plan. It is my honor to share his words of wisdom. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6533. Talents bring responsibility. This is a lovely post. Thank you for reminding us that we don’t have to ‘have the lot’. Each member of the body of Christ brings something really individual and precious because each talent is god-given.

    Reply

    • So true, and we need each of those different talents for the body of Christ to function properly. Think of when the heart decides to stop doing its job, there is no other body part able to perform its unique function, none with the same talent for pumping blood. The whole body suffers as a result. But when the heart does its job properly it enables the other parts of the body to develop their talents, too. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6534. Hello Linda. I came across your blog via Kellie Elmore’s “Fearless in Friday” challenge of 30th. September. I have been a blogger for nearly two years, and love to “bloghop” to see what others are writing. Like you I suffered from depression for a while in my mid-twenties, but wouldn’t want to add to yours by telling you how I came out of it. Love and Peace. Lucretia.

    Reply

    • Lucretia, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I like to read other blogs, too, and have been blogging just over two years. I’ve actually written about how I came out of my depression here on my blog and I love to hear other stories of redemption. I’ll have to come check out your blog, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6535. yes we are and too easily forget as we think we’re all disconnected and have nothing to do with what others do…good and thought provoking poem linda

    Reply

  6536. Very true words, as we might see it as a pain in the butt sometimes, but when the shoe is on the other foot, one would hope for the same.

    Reply

  6537. oh but we are…though you are right we dont often see it that way…and then one day we will need much of the same if fate plays its hand right and what then…only one step away…

    Reply

  6538. Thank you, Linda, for giving us powerful prayer tools from His word today! 🙂 This is a very certain confirmation to me. God bless you as you continue to do as He leads!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love when my inability to think of anything to write and so posting something like this ends up being exactly what someone needed to read! These are indeed some powerful prayer tools. When I think of the Lord’s Prayer in particular, I love to hear our whole church lift up that prayer in unison. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6539. Great post! We find ourselves in a place of refining. The scripture came in on one of our daily devotionals this morning. I have read about the process in the past but wanted to re-read it since we are going through some difficulties right now. My search brought me to you post which has been an encouragement in our current situation…thanks and God bless!

    Reply

    • Mark, I am so glad God led you here for encouragement in your current situation – a perfect example of the goldsmith keeping His eye on you while you are in the fire. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6540. Oh Linda, love the song and your sharing of what He is doing in you. God is always up to something. God bless you as He works His wonder out in your life.

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m finding that I really like Sanctus Real – there are several songs on their last CD that I really like in addition to this one. God is always up to something – I just wish I knew for sure what it was right now. But He’ll show me in due time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6543. I see what you mean about those verses. ha! It puts a little fear of God into me, but not in a bad way. And it also brings me to thank Him for the grace and mercy He has shown me. And to praise Him!
    God bless you and thank you for my dose of Psalm!

    Reply

  6545. Thank you, Linda
    “We are different by design and all have something to give to fuel the awesome Light of the City on the Hill. If we honor those differences while lifting up our Savior then the world will be able to find the City on the Hill. Let us stand strong together on our Rock and Redeemer and not let our differences divide.”
    I was looking forward to this concert post and I get a huge bonus. Thank you for the thoughts. You could very well have been in our church service today. 🙂
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Being at Casting Crowns was a bit like being at an awesome church service! I have a couple of other things I’ll be posting about the concert, so keep your eyes open for more. 🙂 Now I just need to not lose my follow-through between the concert and the door (which is a reference to their CD The Altar and the Door). Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6548. I enjoyed the art piece from your son. Very nice interpretation of the prompt.. both picture and words.

    Have a happy day to you and to your family ~

    Reply

    • Well technically they aren’t in my living room any more (which my son pointed out when I read him the poem), but they were for about a year and a half. 😉 Now they are in the spare bedroom. But the dog has the run of the house. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Lori, Thanks – there’s a lot of cool art around my house thanks to him, and suspect there will be more in the future. He’s working on a pencil and charcoal portrait of his dad in Art class right now. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • emmett, Thanks. I enjoyed this challenge and am looking forward to learning more about the craft of poetry (even if it “simply is”) at dVerse. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6555. of course there needs to be a large straw…which needs a large cup…and a large burger would just make the scene…ha…kinda like if you give a mouse a cookie…smiles.

    Reply

    • Brian, My son did contemplate make a giant hamburger box, but getting enough hamburger boxes to make it with was not as easy as the cups and straws. Maybe someday. (Love if you give a mouse a cookie!) Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thank you, glad you enjoyed it. Your hankering for a giant burger made me laugh! It helped to have a good subject, and the funny thing is my son (14 at the time) actually asked if I thought the Giant Burger near us would want to buy it. We haven’t asked. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6557. Wonderful poem to go with a great piece of pop art. Blessings to your son. Who knows, he might be the next Andy Warhol.

    Reply

    • He just might be. You should see the blue-faced painting of Shigura Miyamoto that I have on my living room wall – Maybe I’ll post it some time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6559. Thank you Linda for sharing this message. It has been something that blogging has helped me with, as we “meet” all kinds of people, who may believe in different ways. God helps me to remember that He will put all things right, in His time, and so to look for what we have in common . . .Jesus.
    God bless you and all that He is working out in you as you shine!

    Reply

    • Deb, I thought it was important message – I’m glad you appreciated it. 🙂 I get so frustrated when people at church argue over whether we there were to many old hymns or contemporary songs (even though our worship team tries to create a nice blend), as if what they like is what we should always have. It’s not supposed to be about us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks. It’s kind of fun having such a visually creative son. There’s a lot of his artwork in the house. 🙂 The dog is pretty awesome to have around, too. Such a loveable little guy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • LeRoy, Casting Crowns is very good at delivering such important messages. Thank you for being a part of fuel that causes the Light to shine brighter. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6563. The communists used to call Christianity “pie in the sky when you die” but, as you say, it is HERE and it is NOW – as well as an eternity in true fellowship.
    If it was only pie in the sky when you die, I wouldn’t have the joy of knowing, loving and serving the Lord and of knowing His abiding presence and His enabling in all things. The Christian life is the ultimate adventure.

    Reply

    • Angela, There’s a guy who walks up and down the sidewalk near my son’s school they call “The Jesus Guy.” He wears a sandwich board that says something about accept Jesus and avoid hell. I just want to go tell him that if he wants to get kids to know Jesus they need more than a threat that comes in the afterlife that they aren’t even sure exists. They need to know about the abundant life, the eternal life that they can have now! It certainly is an adventure worth living. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Well I hope you do get to catch up with him and suggest a better message – but at least he is doing something and I’m sure God will use him to reach some.

      • Angela, I did post a link to this on the Casting Crowns FB page, though I don’t know if Mark Hall read it. They didn’t sing this song at the concert, but they are definitely doing a lot to reach others for Christ, especially youth. Peace, Linda

  6564. I love carrots and cauliflower too. I’m mostly a raw veggie eater. You help me to broaden my horizons. 🙂 God bless you and keep you cooking!
    p.s. Linda, I mentioned that Casting Crowns had been here earlier in the week. Nope. Not true. They come to IL near the end of Oct. There just is so much excitement and anticipation over them, I thought they had already played! Sorry for the untruth!!!

    Reply

    • Deb, I just got home from the concert. It was awesome! And all about Jesus. Some part made me smile and some parts made me cry, but all was to the glory of God!

      I like a lot of veggies raw, too, like cucumbers, radishes, and sweet peppers. But I don’t like cauliflower raw at all and carrots raw aren’t my favorites. I used to cook the cauliflower until it was mushy, like my mom did, but my husband likes it firmer and I’ve learned to like it just barely soft now, too. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for the wonderful comment – it made me laugh! Perhaps I am a bit hard on prose, but I’ll blame it on my legal background. In the kind of writing I’ve done most of my life there is little room for error. When the placement of a comma in a contract can mean the difference between a $10,000 judgment and a $10,000,000 judgment, you learn to be a stickler for perfect punctuation. I do realize, however, that there is a lot of forms of prose that allow for more flexibility, and even a little poetic license. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6567. Poetry
    simply
    is…i like this a lot…because it’s so true…love the freedom poetry gives us..poetic license…smiles – also like the second one, the searching for the right words..for his glory..nice

    Reply

    • Thanks! It means a lot to me to receive encouragement from other poets. I do love poetic license, too! Just realized I forgot to include the Rhyming Dictionary in the second poem. Another essential friend. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6568. poetry simply is…i like it…esp since punctuation is not always my friend…lol…nice second verse as well…we are all given talents to beused to the glory of the King…

    Reply

    • Brian, I have been a writer of prose in the form of briefs, memos, etc. for most of my life, and only recently (and initially reluctantly) have let the poet in me surface. I find I like it a lot because there is no real right and wrong in poetry and it is okay if the reader understands a poem to mean something other than the poet intended.

      I left a nice comment on your poem, but it seemed to disappear when I hit post. I don’t think my netbook likes Blogger. 🙁 But I did like your poem, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6569. “aware each moment of your love and mercy” . . . 🙂 Thank you, Linda! I love that we don’t have to wait. Praying that I live this truth each day . .. real life, abundant life!
    God bless you and the life you live for Him!

    Reply

    • Jim, Thank you. I’m sure you know from experience in your own writing that as we use our talents for His glory He increases them! It is a wonderful thing our Savior does for us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6572. This makes me think of the scene in One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s nest where Nicholson had sprung the guys and they went, what, on a boat was it? THEY were the “normal” ones then. And maybe they truly are.

    My friend, Talon, a wonderful blogging friend of mine wrote a wonderful story about a local alcoholic, how he saw the wonder and beauty in life more than other broken believers.

    Sounds like the Pastor is a great asset to those in need in Alaska.

    We certainly heal our own hurts by being like Jesus, by loving others.

    Amen!!

    Reply

    • Jannie, I haven’t seen that movie is so long – maybe it’s time to see if it’s on Netflix. 😉 Pr. Bryan is a great asset in the blogging world as well, and I’m sure touches many hearts. He does see truth and beauty in a way those who think they aren’t broken seem to miss. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • John, Thank you. Don’t worry – I know that I can never stop using the writing talent God has given me to glorify Him. For many years I used my talent for other purposes, but He has caused it to grow as I focus on writing about Him always. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6574. Thank you for sharing about Broken Believers / Pastor Br. here. 🙂 His ministry is unique and needed. I know some don’t like the thought of themselves as broken, wouldn’t agree with that, but we all are in some way. That’s why we need Jesus!
    God bless you Linda, as you contribute and minister to us in Jesus name! I just loved it when he wrote “I say, let her post!” 🙂

    Reply

    • Pr. Bryan always makes me smile with his comments and replies. That one in particular did make me feel good. But I do know that he allows me to post there only because he knows I listen to the Holy Spirit when I write, and that is so important. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6575. Linda, this is such a skilled use of the double acrostic…something I’ve never encountered before. So glad to discover your work and love the reflection on true community. Victoria

    Reply

    • I’ve had several comments from accomplished poets who have never seen this poetic form before. I’m starting to think I made it up! Anyway, it was a lot of fun to do and I’m glad you like it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6576. very cool…creative delivery of the acrostic…and a bit of truth as well…community is so important to our quality of life….def on my thankfulness list…

    Reply

  6577. yummy one.

    you are very capable.

    this is incredible.

    glad to read you and love your blog.
    welcome sharing your poetry with us today,
    first time participants can do free linking up to 3 poems, you can write for our challenge if you want to, no obligations, we are open until Thursday night, 8pm…
    hope to see you in.
    keep up the excellence.

    Reply

    • I like that line, too. But my favorite is “like Cajuns out on the bayou.” That, to me, brings up images of having a good time together just because we are together. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6582. Thank you for our mini concert today, Linda! 🙂 They were all just here in central Illinois!
    I had heard that song by the Afters, but not the other 2. The Prodigal by Casting Crowns is just so good. I am so thankful for our Christian artists.
    God bless you as you ready your heart for Him and this concert!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad you liked them all. I am so glad I got the Sanctus Real CD because I just love it and am looking forward to seeing them on Friday. I already have my concert sign made – it says “Voice of Truth,” which is my favorite Casting Crowns song. I don’t know what I would do without the great Christian music these bands and others produce. It’s almost all I listen to. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6583. Hi Linda.
    Firstly, enjoy the concert.
    Secondly, I agree “deeds” has more meaning.
    Thirdly, have you thought of telling the group/writing to the group expressing your ideas on their wording? They would possibly see the point and change it in future performances.

    Reply

    • Angela, I have thought of posting a link to this blog post on their Facebook page. They do interact quite a bit with their fans on FB. Mark Hall even asks for prayer requests and then prays for all of those that are posted. You’ve encouraged me to go ahead and do that. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6584. Thank you, Linda

    I appreciate your straight shooting and the clarification. There’s a beautiful love song called “I swear” which I have heard played at many a Christian wedding. Very touching, but I can’t listen to it without thinking of James 5:12 ” Do not swear –not by heaven or by earth or by anything else.”

    What Deb said.

    Thanks for sharing.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, As I said to Deb, we do have to be careful and judge everything based on how it agrees with the Word of God. I think Casting Crowns’ intention with the song is consistent with scripture, but it’s always good to think through things and make sure of what words mean. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Margaret, I sometimes get behind in changing my “Verse of the Week,” and need a little grace myself! 😉 Glad you liked this one, it’s one of my favorites. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6586. Hi, You must be Lutheran. You made sure everyone knows that the small C stands for universal.
    Also, you used the words, ‘ Board of Elders ‘
    Found your blog from your post on Broken Believers.

    Blessings to you,
    Margaret – Lutheran

    Reply

    • Margaret, I do attend a Lutheran church – we belong to the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ denomination – but I am first and foremost a follower of Christ. I do like the Lutheran emphasis on grace, though, and my husband was raised Lutheran. So glad you found your way over from Broken Believers. What a great site that is, and I am so blessed that Pr. Lowe has asked me to be a contributor there. Welcome to my blog. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6587. Linda, I so appreciate that you really listen to what you listen to. You don’t just accept it all and want to make sure that you are still following your faith in Him and your beliefs . . .not just going along for the ride.
    Sometimes it is good to question, and not agree with everything, right?
    I see your points. You know how I took it? I was thinking that they meant what you were saying with the word deeds. That by shirt they just meant our outside behavior, what we do.
    God bless you and your time worshiping Him at the concert! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I can definitely understand what Mark Hall was getting at with these lyrics, and I don’t like to be too critical, but you know me. I’m a word person and I like to make sure words are clearly understood. But you are right – we can’t just agree with everything we hear and read. We are called to test everything by the plumb line of the Word of God. I do think that is what Casting Crowns tries very hard to do with their music and they do a wonderful job. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • April, Thanks! I am looking forward to it. There may be more pre-concert posts this week, and surely some post concert posts also. It will be a wonderful night of praise and worship! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6590. I choose to follow ethics and reciprocal morality. But that almost completely matches up with a lot of what written in your scriptures, minus any prohibitions on thinking things.

    Reply

  6591. my boys love to go through the boxes of old pictures and hear the stories of our family….i like the old tangible pictures…just something about having them in your hand….

    Reply

    • Brian, I know what you mean. Digital photos are great because you can take a ton of pictures without worrying about wasting film, and I do like my screensaver of all our photos, but print photos are so cool. Spent all day yesterday flipping through old black and whites. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6592. I haven’t been reading in the Psalms, so I really appreciate your Psalm Sundays! This made me think about the desire of my heart. Today it is to stay close to Him and know of His desires!
    Thank you for this beautiful prayer and I join Ann and Linda in praying it back to you!
    God bless you and yours today, and your week ahead.

    Reply

    • Deb, One of the best things about having started Psalm Sunday is that I read at least one Psalm every week just to decide what to post. I am so blessed to have you all praying this prayer for me also. I so appreciate it, knowing that God is faithful to answer our prayers. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6593. The repeating opening phrase clarifies your poem’s point and reintroduces it as you define the answer in each stanza–an excellent example of repetition. So glad your sister was able to retrieve the memories–though I’m sure the time would still be remembered without them, but the pictures can be shared by those not present, far into the future.

    Reply

    • Thanks! When I saw what you posted for the prompt at dVerse, this poem immediately came to mind. I actually spent the day looking at the found pictures, as well as some old black and white pictures of family. So many great memories and conversations from all those pictures. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thank you. I actually left a bunch of my old photos with my sister today so she can scan them, since she has a better scanner than I do. I just love looking at pictures. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6595. I choose to follow Christ too.
    I choose that now because I know Him but how very thankful I am that HE CHOSE ME 53 years ago! And after 53 years of knowing, loving and serving Him I know that He alone is worthy and it is my choice to follow.

    Reply

  6597. I really enjoyed your blog. When we live in the spirit, we tend to exhibit the fruit of the spirit in our lives. I have noticed that when I am not in the word of God and praying like I should, the fruit of the spirit is less evident in my life. I rely more on myself and therefore am unable to have victory in the area of self-control or peace, etc.
    I wanted our children to learn this verse and understand it, so we did a fruit of the spirit tree. I wrote about what we did on my blog, 4littlehoots.blogspot.com

    Reply

  6598. And I pray this prayer for you as well.

    “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” Faith becomes real when we forgo the reinforcements of the world and lean only on Him.

    I love the times He showed me that. God is good! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I appreciate the prayer in return! Imagine what life would be like if we all prayed this prayer for each other every day. Since we know He answers prayers, I believe it would make a big difference. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6599. Yes, I agree with you 100% on the value of pictures. My little granddaughter often likes to sit with me and look back (on the computer) at her baby pictures; and then there are the pictures of people I have who are no longer alive…priceless treasures indeed. Well expressed.

    Reply

  6600. sometimes i think nowadays we’re so flooded with pictures and shoot way too many…then forget…but some pictures are priceless indeed and you captured this so well…and the older they get – the more their worth is increasing..enjoyed this

    Reply

  6601. Me too! I love how you found something to share about from Ezekiel, for us today. There is something so sad about that last line . . .they never even think of Me or My commands. Praying that I never stop thinking of Him and that we find ways to help others start thinking of Him today.
    God bless you as you read His word and think of Him today!

    Reply

    • Deb, It is sad that so many don’t ever think of God or His commands. They seem to think that His way is onerous and restrictive, but in reality it is freedom! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6604. Thanks, Linda
    I think we have one last shot at doing anything like this before the cloud of cold descends. Hope I can get time away to try it soon.
    Pineapples are on my list of favourite fruits and beef and pineapple together are a whole new world of flavour bursts! 🙂
    I suspect this will be a hit in our home as well.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, The beef and pineapple combination is amazingly delicious! I hope you do get a bit more warm weather so you can try this before the cold hits. I must say I’m glad I don’t live as far north as you do. It’s one thing to be contemplating fall already, but to think about it getting cold any time soon would be tough for me. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • JD, Well I am flattered that I could amaze even you with my poetry! First of all, I prayed and asked for an idea. For the shape, I wrote it in MS Word instead of directly into the WordPress editor (which is how I do all my posts) and just spaced each line over. Then I used a website called Word Hippo that allows you to search for words that end in a specific letter to find word that ended in the letters of community. And I added and deleted words until lines were the right size. Plus, I just had a lot of fun doing it! Glad you liked it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6606. Oh . . .I love the sound of this! I’ve been adding a little something extra into the burgers to try to make them tastier . . .more exciting. This sounds like a wonderful alternative! Thank you so much. I truly, truly appreciate the help you give me in the kitchen!
    God bless you and your family and your mealtimes together!
    p.s. pork tenderloin roasts have become one of our meals now . . .thanks to you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I appreciate the encouragement. I’m starting to feel like I’m running out of recipes, but then something comes to me. I just wish I’d remembered to take pictures. My son put ketchup on his first one, then said that just seemed wrong on a Hawaiian burger, at which point I told him that is why the barbeque sauce was out. He used the bbq on his second one. 🙂 Glad you are enjoying the tenderloin. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6607. Linda,
    You are so talented, but I know Who places these things on your heart and it is Who you give all the credit to. I am so happy that we have this community that we belong to. Our little blog community causes us to sharpen iron with iron, and has caused me to change the way I think on many things, bringing me closer to God. Looking at your visitor map as I write this, people from every continent in the world read what you write, you are making a difference, and it reminds me of something. When I read the left behind series, I find it curious that the Christians in the last days communicated in the same way. Christian fiction it is, but not far from the mark is it. God bless you as you serve Him in word.
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, I have found that as I use my writing talent to glorify God it only gets better. Which reminds me of the parable of the talents. When we use our talents correctly He will multiply them. I completely agree about our blogging community – it has sharpened my understanding of who God is and what He desires for us. Lately I’ve had a hard time getting around to reading other blogs, and I miss it. I smiled to think of you viewing my visitor map – I’ll bet you also noticed that my blog is read in a number of countries where Christians are persecuted, such as Pakistan and Iran. I pray I can be an encouragement to Christians in those countries. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6608. Thanks, Linda,

    Wow ! This is good! I couldn’t imagine reading one let alone writing one! This is simply superb!
    I am working on a paper for community development. When I saw your topic, I smiled. When I read the poem, my heart danced. 🙂 Community is at the base of so much that we do on a daily basis. Truly, no man is an island.
    Thanks for the wonderful post and thanks for being a part of my community.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, What a blessing to me to be able to make someone’s heart dance! How cool is that? God is so good to have given me this topic at this time to go with what you are doing. I am happy to have you as part of my community, too. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6609. Community is a wonderful thing to be thankful for. I’m thankful too!! And Linda, I want to give you some kind of an award for this poem! How in the world did you manage a double acrostic? I’ve never seen one before and wouldn’t have thought it was possible. And then add to it a poem that was so good? Amazing!
    God bless you and the communities He has placed you in!

    Reply

    • Deb, It did take some thought, but I also used a website called “Word Hippo” where you can search for all words ending in a particular letter. Which is how I came up with “bayou” – one of the few words that ends in “u”! 😉 And that turned out to be one of my favorite lines in the poem. But you know the basic idea came from God, who is the center of all worthwhile community. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Myfanwy, I agree and have been richly blessed by developing discipline in my prayer. At first it was difficult, but now it is almost impossible to start the day without spending time on my knees in prayer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting. The answer to your question is that a person’s lack of belief doesn’t change God at all. He remains faithful and holy, merciful and just. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6613. Very good insight. The relation and connection is rather well done. Forgiveness is often a struggle but it’s true, not doing so means we only hurt ourselves. Your poem also shows that either you would do it for religion or not, you are just better off letting things go. Thanks for sharing this through your poem.

    Reply

    • Thanks, letting go and forgiving is definitely a hard lesson to learn. For me, I don’t think I would have learned it without God’s involvement in showing me what forgiveness is. I was pretty stubborn in holding onto my anger and bitterness for a long time. But hanging onto it did only hurt me really. Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a thoughtful comment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6614. Thank you for sharing this Linda. I loved it and that is how I need to start my days too! I used to journal my praise and worship times, but that doesn’t always happen now a days. But just because I can’t write it doesn’t mean I can’t wake up and pray it. 🙂
    Just reading yours lifted me tonight. Any time is a good time to praise Him. God bless you as you continuously praise and seek Him! Praying for your days and the posts that He brings to you, for He is an on time God!

    Reply

  6615. 🙂 I came via Myfanwy’s blog – I too have that devotional and I share your joy of the new pastor! Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
    Unto him [be] glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. ephesians 3:20-21

    YES YES YES!! to this wonderful and encouraging blog post!~

    Reply

    • Thank you. I love that passage you quoted. Our current interim pastor uses that as a benediction sometimes, though it always chokes him up a bit. Glad I could be an encouragement. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Jannie, Thanks, I completely agree. It is sad that so many people resist forgiving others because they think that forgiving means what the other person did was okay. But it doesn’t mean that at all. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6617. Thank you Linda for sharing your poem with me. All poetry is beautiful. I believe that poetry is about passion and whatever passion brings you to sit down and hammer out these stanzas is what God has given you. I don’t try to explain my own passion because I don’t know where it comes from, I don’t understand it and I’m not sure if I want to. I just know that there is an overwhelming desire within that forces me to write. And it’s been there since early childhood, my mother havint written my poetry for me becase I didn’t even know the alphabet and yet I was dictating these poems. As a child it was hidden away, no one else knew about it except my mother. No one else seemed to have the same affliction, it appeared that I was the odd bird out, so I would sulk away and only write in complete solitude, when brothers and sisters wouldn’t find me writing, or stealing away with tales by Emily dickinson or Mark Twain, never wanting them to see me, believing they would think me odd. And even today I think some of them believe I am odd for having this passion. I didn’t understand the passion adn I didn’t understand how I felt. I didn’t know that is simmply what poets feel. In my late teens and early 20’s I decided this was a personal thing, an extreme gift from God meant only for my eyes, and maybe for the eyes of those people who inspired me so intensely. So I wouldn’t prostitute it, try to make it my living, instead keeping it secure and beautifully wrapped just inside of me. Then life hit. college, career, family. I didn’t write for many, many years. And then it came back. I’m 52 now and have only just this year decided to share my poetry with the world. As I grow older and more informed of life in this world and the constant things it has held through out the centuries, I’ve decided that my poetry won’t be surprisingly found scattered about the confines of my hermitage after my death, as was the case with Emily. And so instead I will simply share it…. Linda your poetry is as beautiful as any I have ever seen. I apologize for the length of this message but I just wanted you to know the story of another poet, because I think that’s what you are….. I’m really glad you posted this……

    Reply

    • John, Thank you for sharing your story and for your kind words regarding my poetry. I have always been a writer, but only recently began writing poetry in earnest. Sometimes poems just come to me, often during times of prayer, and I have to write them down. I’ve never thought of myself as “a poet,” but I suppose I am. But first and foremost I am a child of God who desires to bring Him glory in all that I do and write. I look forward to checking out your poetry on your blog. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Sarah, Thanks. The One who matters, my dear Jesus, does care and has taken away the pain. I also have my sweet husband who loves me dearly. The person from the first stanza is no longer someone I have contact with and is not relevant in my life. Glad you liked the poem, it was heart-felt. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6619. I just read “To Be Despised by All, but God” on your other blog site… beautiful writing. I thoroughly enjoyed the read and the insights. I tried the blog a day, but wasn’t able to quite keep up with that, I love your creative way of doing it. Thanks for the comment on my blog and for the visit. Hope your week is going great!

    Reply

    • Thank you. I do just try to write what would glorify God. I don’t know that I’m always successful, but if I am it is because of Him. Funny you should mention the blog a day thing, as of late I have been struggling with it and thinking I will only keep it up through the end of the year. But come Jan. 1, 2012 who knows but God what will be. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6620. We only need to be faithful and proclaim the Truth. Thank you for your consistently good posts. I have reblogged this, I had forgotten all about my litte devotional, I’m off to find it now. Thanks for reminding me.

    Reply

  6621. forgiveness is the greatest gift we can not only give others but ourselves…that being said it is often the hardest lesson to learn, though we have the greatest example…nice write linda…

    Reply

  6622. Thank you, Linda

    That devotional sounds like a wonderful little book. Thanks for sharing part in us Interested in knowing if it’s offered for sale online.

    I’m thankful the search is over. Praying now too that God would enlarge the tent pegs and that the fruit of the Spirit would be evident in the lives of everyone in this body.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It is available online at Amazon.com here. It is a great little devotional; I highly recommend it. Thank you for your prayers. There are still transitions to be dealt with but it will all be wonderful, I’m sure. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6623. You have been doing so much! What a blessing you were to deliver the above and how perfect it all went together. . .more evidence of His hand guiding you and your church. 🙂 I’m excited about your new pastor and all that plans God has for you and the congregation there!
    God bless you and keep you looking to Him always!

    Reply

    • Deb, My hope is that now that we have our lead pastor, my work on the Board of Elders will be a bit less hectic. But only time will tell. I just go where He tells me, trying to say yes when He leads me to say yes, and no when He says it’s okay to say no. I am thankful that I was able to be a part of this event in the life of our church, and am looking forward to our pastor arriving in November! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6625. Linda,
    I am glad that you are getting a pastor, and I pray your church will grow until the walls can’t contain it. I am glad that you were able to encourage the eldership panel with your words of wisdom and encouragement. God bless you and your church in your service to Him!
    Peace be with you-Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, I am glad for this process to be complete as well. We have had a wonderful interim pastor, but it is good to have a feeling of permanence with our new pastor. We do hope to grow, and to outgrow our current facility! The Lord willing, we will have many opportunities to proclaim the Gospel. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6626. I will keep your Board and Your new Pastor in my prayer journal
    Congratulations! May the Spirit shine His Light upon your church
    Prayers for your day

    Reply

  6627. Thank you so much Linda, for posting this song! Casting Crowns do such a great job with music that really ministers to us! God bless you as you go to worship the One whose voice of Truth you listen to!
    Add me to the encouraged list! 🙂

    Reply

  6628. Thanks, Linda
    Good stuff!! 🙂 Please add me to the list of the encouraged.

    “I do want to get out of the boat and be with my Savior in whatever endeavor He has planned for me. Even if His plan is for me to face the giants I fear most.”
    I so relate. Giants ‘in our my eyes’ more often than not! Funny though, there’s no giant in the world that’s so big that He can’t conquer it … I’m thankful!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, That is so true! There is not one single giant that He cannot defeat. “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4. Glad to have you among the encouraged! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Theresa, You are so welcome! I know you have a lot on your plate right now, but never forget that you can do all things through Christ. He will give you the strength and the wisdom to do the right thing and to be able to do your very best at all that is before you. Just tell those crashing waves to be quiet. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6630. Love Casting Crowns – have fun on your faith-filled with praising concert!
    Yep, heard the crashing waves and they have kept me up many a night but in the end, that crashing led me to start writing my blog
    Prayers for your day

    Reply

    • I’m sure there will be blog posts about the concert afterwards. I know it will be a faith-filled with praising concert, indeed! I’m looking forward to also seeing Sanctus Real who is opening for them.

      That is awesome that you used the sound of the crashing waves to lead you to blog in a way that glorifies God! I’ve been having a hard time getting to all the blogs I want to read these days. I need to pop over and see what you’ve been up to. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6632. I agree that seeing ourselves as righteous is in direct proportion to how horribly we’ve been treated. Been there…

    When I first read this Psalm, it made me feel like it was okay to turn to God and beg. That’s so comforting in a way…

    Thanks for a good reminder. Hugs… : )

    Reply

  6634. Thanks, Linda

    Here’s the line that’s in my head: ” I have resolved that my mouth will not sin.”
    That’s a toughie on it’s own but I can choose to allow Him to help me keep my vows. I am going to keep that at the front, back and center of my mind this week as I trust Him to “hide me in the shadow of (His) wings”

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6635. What an amazing thing to be kept as the apple of His eye and hidden in the shadow of His wings. 🙂 Thank you, Linda. I love the Psalms!
    God bless you this day and cover You with His loving care.

    Reply

  6636. The final stanza started out as the first? Almost like writing in a circle?

    I like the way you assumed the tone of the character and the life he lived. Just awesome. Make sure it goes in your first book! ; )

    Reply

    • Linda, The first stanza was originally going to be the whole poem! But yeah, I think in a more linear fashion when I write prose and essays, but poetry is a whole different media and is processed differently in my head.

      So do you have any idea when that first book is coming out? 😉 I have been thinking about doing a book of Christian poetry. Time will tell. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks. I just love Johnny Cash, and was happy to find that video even though it wasn’t the fast-paced version of Rock Island Line I’m used to singing along with in the car. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Claudia, Thank you for the awesome prompt to work with! I was just so excited when Johnny was the first thing that came to mind, and had so much fun with this. 🙂 I’m glad I was able to do a tribute to him justice. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6639. Oh my goodness, Linda. You really nailed this! You keep getting better and better and better. I loved it! And the song by Johnny at the end made me smile so much. Thank you and God bless you and your poetry!
    p.s. Aubrey loves trains too. We ride a little one at a park 3 times a week! haha!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad you liked it. It’s funny, I do have to think a lot harder when writing poetry but I love the challenge. And the songs mentioned in this poem are some of my favorites, with the exception of Orange Blossom Special, which I never really cared for, but it’s so well known I thought I better not leave it out. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6640. damn…really nice close…smooth with a bite…my fav is the final stanza but you have some wonderful textures all the way through…nice lacing of songs and fine bit of story telling in between…well done linda

    Reply

    • Brian, Thanks! The final stanza is what I started with, but then all these other songs came to mind and I realized there was so much more depth to Johnny Cash than that last song. This was a really fun one to write. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6642. Thanks, Linda

    Beautiful song 🙂

    When I saw the heading, I too wondered what the recipe was going to be. lol. I thought Jericho was some kind of flat bread/cracker/cookie type thing. 🙂 :- ) Talk about creatures of habit… I guess He really needs to break me and make me into what He wants me to be.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6644. This is a very special post Linda. My mom is an elementary grade teacher. I have seen her dedication and love for the students. We’re from a third world country and so many don’t have the opportunity to go to school. My mom, in her own little ways, help those who came forward to her class without the capacity to pay for tuition, no paper and pencil — they only had hope for a better future and my mom helped them a step into it.

    Thank you for this and thank you for all the teachers whose heart is into teaching and caring 🙂

    Reply

    • Jim, Thanks! We did have a great anniversary and are still working on getting our anniversary gift, which is a new driveway and backyard landscaping. Glad you liked the song. Trevor Morgan is a terrific artist. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6647. nice…enjoyable song for sure…hope you have a wonderful weekend…and thank you for taking the time to give some really great crit…

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  6648. Thank you for sharing Jericho with us, Linda. So beautiful, in that honest heart way. You had Aubrey and I swaying and singing along. 🙂 Praying all my defenses fall before Him today.
    God bless you and give you strength and love for your days!
    p.s. you really had me wondering for awhile . . .how do you cook Jericho? What’s in it? I’ve never heard of this dish!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are so funny! “How do you cook Jericho?” That’s hilarious. We are such creatures of habit, even in our expectations. If only we could translate that into our expectations of God’s blessings, that we might expect them always. I’m glad you and Aubrey liked this song. It brought tears to my eyes the first time I heard it and still does when I stop to listen closely. My walls are smaller these days, and I hunker down behind them less often, but I am still in need of His wrecking ball sometimes. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6650. Good morning Linda. I’m your neighbor on the links, so I’ll offer a few thoughts.

    I very much like your formal approach–similar stanzas, repeating refrains. It’s almost anthem-like.

    I wonder why you haven’t carried through with ‘day’ as the last word, or perhaps even used it in a rhyming couplet at the end to bring finality? Those kinds of things are especially effective in short punchy pieces like the one you shared. And it wouldn’t change the character of the piece, it would just continue what you’d already started.

    Brian makes a good point above concerning ‘will.’ As a means of variety you might think of using other words like ‘shall, must, may, can, might.’ Just a slightly different accent to lead off the main stanzas.

    I don’t offer the comments to try and suggest something that’s not already in there. You shown a fine thought process, and not enough inspiring things can be said about our teachers. Thank you for sharing it.

    Reply

    • Steve, Thank you for the encouraging comment and suggestions. (Great teaching, by the way. 😉 ) I intend to rewrite this a little later today taking some of the crits into account. I will also be over to re-read your poem and provide some feedback. I read it yesterday, but I didn’t have time to give a critique the thought it deserves. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6651. This is a really important topic and I am very glad I got this particular piece to critique! Inspired title, which indicates the topic and would catch the eye of anyone with interest in the areas of children or teaching (or any combination thereof).

    An upbeat piece, though slightly sinister in contrasting the good with the bad where the future is concerned, and you also send a little bit of a warning message to the teachers out there, reminding them of what can happen, what the trend is like, if they don’t take their job seriously.

    Contrast is something I thought about when I read this. Perhaps the ‘extremes’ in your comparisons could be more defined? Would that pack more of a punch? I think you have this in the first two stanzas, but then the edges become blurrier.

    Another thought I had was the possibility of taking out the second ‘will’ in the odd number stanzas. Example:

    Will compassion be cultivated
    
or will selfishness survive?
    vs.
    Will compassion be cultivated
    or selfishness survive?

    For me, at least, that makes the flow easier.

    In stanza six the flow of the last line also caught my attention:

    Our future is
    
in your hands
    as you influence our kids

    by all you do each day

    I think it’s the ‘by’ that I stumble on a bit. Perhaps an alternative would be something like ‘…kids in every way each day’, or perhaps just leave it at ‘… kids in every way’.

    For the last stanza (do you actually call them stanzas even if they are just two lines?):

    Our future is
    
in your hands
    
and we thank you
    
for encouraging
    
positive traits in our kids

    I would suggest scratching the ‘and we’ since the encouraging stands on its own without it and the flow (at least for me) would work better if it was in that powerful, direct way:

    ‘Our future is
    in your hands;
    Thank you
    for encouraging
    positive traits in our kids
    every day!’

    The ‘every day’ could be a way to continue the rhyming but still vary it from ‘each day’. Or just stop after kids, it works as well (I’m a bit of a rhyming freak, me).

    I don’t know how well structured this critique is, but it is after all merely suggestions. And, since I know a few teachers myself, thank you for highlighting the hard work they do and the challenges they face.

    Reply

    • CC, Thank you for your thoughtful suggestions. They are very helpful. I will be incorporating some of them into a rewrite later today. It is a little daunting to post something for critique at dVerse, but you have been so kind and helpful.

      I like that you caught on to the warning, because that was what I wasn’t sure I captured in this piece. I was actually thinking of two awful grade school teachers my son had who did not encourage or inspire, but more often left him in tears. Our kids are with teachers a big part of their lives. I am thankful that most teachers really do care. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6652. linda…first let me say you really took it to heart and gave great crit to your neighbors…i appreciate that immensely….and then thank you for honoring teachers…they are some of my fav people…

    one thing i think you can take advantage of in your poem is to make the verses more call/response as you use will alot…an example…

    What will
    our future hold?
    compassion cultivated
    or selfishness survive?

    the refrains are nice, but think they can be tightened just a bit as well…lots of you’s in there…

    just my intial thoughts but over all an enjoyable piece….

    Reply

    • Brian, Thanks – I like your suggestions. I’ve gotten such great constructive feedback on this poem from the dVerse crowd. 🙂 I’m looking forward to incorporating it into a rewrite. Maybe I can even get this published in my son’s school newspaper when it’s done. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6653. i like your subject matter – this feels like a good idea to attempt to relate – i think the idea behind the poetry is so important to its success – i didnt have any really great teaching at school but have been lucky in later life to rub shoulders with genius and expert teachers who have the power to change your life – nice poem – well written

    Reply

    • Arron, I think that there is something to learn even from the not so great teachers, even if it’s only how not to be. Thank you for the encouragement on this poem. I agree that having a good idea first is the foundation of good poetry, as well as prose. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6655. The short while that my youngest was in school, we made life long friends with some wonderful teachers who went above and beyond. My oldest also had some really good teachers who encouraged her and once she saw she could get all A’s . . .well that is what she almost always got!
    Linda, this poem/post really blessed me . . .because we are all teachers at times, even when we’re not aware of it.
    God bless you and these last years of high school for your son!

    Reply

    • Deb, We are all teachers, and not just of our own kids. Kids soak in the behaviors they see around them and it is so important to be a good example to them. Have a great day being a teacher to your sweet Aubrey. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6656. Thanks much, Linda

    I was once told that a teacher has to be careful because they never know where there influence stops…. Students seem to spend more waking hours with teachers than they spend with their own families. We have much to pray about. Thanks for the prod!

    Blessings much,
    ann

    P.S – I recently participated in an exercise where I was asked who was my most influential teacher and why. Gave me cause to reflect on all the great ones that poured into me. Wish they were still around so I could tell them how much it means to me. 🙂

    Reply

  6657. What a great blog! This is something we all need to take note of often but a subject that is seldom heard.

    PRIDE was the original sin when Lucifer desired to be equal with and above God and I believe pride is the BASIS of all other sins.

    Why do we lie? Because of pride. We lie to protect ourselves.
    Why do we get angry? Because our pride is hurt.
    Why do we gossip? Because someone’s fault makes us look better. . . pride.

    Our own nature proves the truth of Scripture that “there is NONE that doeth good” [Romans 3:10-18]. There is absolutely NOTHING of which we can be proud. God has done a marvellous work in our lives but it is of no credit whatever to us. It is ALL His work.

    Then why do we so easily feel pride? It is our old nature trying to rise and we must “reckon it dead”. May we always recognise the first signs of pride and kill it before it takes control.

    Reply

    • Angela, I can wholeheartedly agree with this statement: “PRIDE was the original sin when Lucifer desired to be equal with and above God and I believe pride is the BASIS of all other sins.” It seems that if Lucifer, who was once the greatest of all the archangels, had no legitimate basis to be proud, then what basis have we for thinking we are anything without God? Peace (and humility), Linda

      Reply

  6658. Linda,
    this post is so well timed. In our Beth Moore study we touched on that very word this week PRIDE! It has also been heavy on my mind and heart lately and had thought about writing about pride myself. I think God is tugging at a lot of hearts on this topic at this moment.
    Have a wonderful weekend.
    Blessings,
    April

    Reply

    • April, Once again, it wasn’t my timing! 🙂 You should write a post about pride; there certainly can’t be too many of those. You have a great weekend, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Myfanwy, This was one of those hard posts to write, fear that it would not be well-received nagging at the back of my mind. But I pushed through the fear and am glad I did, and that it was what you needed to read. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thank you for such a nice comment! Having lived in darkness for far too long, it is a blessing to me to be able to be a light bringer in honor of those who brought the Light to me. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6663. Sometimes I think it’s okay to embrace those dark times and plunge ahead through them. For me, fighting them sometimes intensifies them even more. Just some thoughts. But, yes, joy is definitely strength for the journey no matter where it takes you 🙂 Thanks for sharing with us.

    Reply

    • Thanks for your comment. For me, the dark times bring back memories of the 8 years I lost to major depression and bring with them a fear of returning to that place. I feel like I’ve already spent enough of my life on dark thoughts. There is a kind of darkness, though, that I agree it is good and important to go through, and that is when it is tied to an identifiable event, such as the loss of a loved one or other tragedy, that needs to be dealt with and not just stuffed inside and ignored. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6664. Thank you, Linda! I am always a little leery of using that “pride” word. It always gets me in trouble and almost always is at the bottom of what a problem is in me. You gave me a big helper to use the word blessed instead of proud . . .like we are blessed by our children, instead of proud of them. 🙂
    God bless you as you stay grounded and humble in Him, for His glory!

    Reply

    • Deb, Yes, using the word blessed puts the focus on God, the author of all our blessings, whether they be our children, our talents, our accomplishments, or our country of origin. I have been so blessed in so many ways, I don’t ever want to be deceived into thinking I did it all myself. Glad I could help you out by passing on God’s blessing of the perfect word to use instead of pride. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6665. Yes Yes Yes – I call those synomyms my SCARE words
    Sarcasm, Clamor (having too much going on), Anger, Resentment and Ego (thinking I can fix everything)
    Thank you for the reminder and the great Bible verses
    Prayers for your day

    Reply

    • You’ve named by two biggest foes – sarcasm and anger. Hadn’t really thought of sarcasm as being in the same category, but I suppose it is. Thanks for your prayers for my day. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6666. God bless you, Linda, as you continue to think of Him . . .and us . . .even when there is so much going on that you have to do! I don’t think I would be blogging if I worked like you do! 🙂
    This was wonderful and blessed me so much. Some days it’s all I need to know and remember.
    love and prayers for your work week!

    Reply

  6670. Thanks, Linda
    the ‘simple’ truths have been coming fast and furious today!

    http://pttyann.wordpress.com/2011/09/12/believe/
    http://justifiedfreely.wordpress.com/2011/09/13/the-lord-hath-a-controversy/
    http://iftodaywehear.wordpress.com/2011/09/13/a-void/

    Thanks for adding to the mix 😉

    Blessings
    ann

    P.S. – Life on the other side of blogland is getting way busier than I anticipated. I will be more or less a silent observer for the next few months while I iron out issues that need my attention. I will pass by, I will still read and I will continue to pray as you share the hard truths and the message of His love.
    I’ve been sharing this note with my blogging pals who post daily. Hope I won’t have to miss any of these beautiful pieces. 🙁

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks for sharing the other links. I will check them out. I can understand life outside blogland getting busy. I don’t get a chance to read as much as I like. I will keep you in my prayers for working through all the busyness and staying close to Jesus. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6672. I’m so glad to be here, Linda. 🙂 You always feed me and give me music too! I have to wait to listen to the song . . .have a sleepy girl beside me. But I have heard of Sanctus Real. One of their songs has been played a lot here on the radio . . .”Lead Me”. It has impacted husbands and fathers for their families and I love hearing the testimonies. I shared it with a friend and she got the CD for her hubby to listen to that song.
    What you have to say about following our hearts has been something I’ve wondered about before. It is a popular thought . . .how often is the advice given to follow your heart??? lots! I know I’ve even read a Christian author who wrote about our hearts and following them. So, when we think about this, is what we really are following then, His heart? His Holy Spirit?
    God bless you and all the ways you glorify Him and keep seeking Him and His heart for you!

    Reply

    • Deb, The song “Lead Me” is on this same CD as “Dear Heart.” It’s a really great song, too.
      I really want to follow His heart, because I know mine has led me in the wrong direction more than once. He always leads me in the best direction! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6673. Wonderful post and well timed! Just completed my Beth Moore homework for small group that meets tomorrow. Today’s focus was the heart!
    Blessings, April

    Reply

  6674. Thanks Linda

    Beautiful song. I love the simple reality that only Jesus can save my heart. P.S. Never heard of this group before. Thanks for the intro.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I am happy to introduce them, and am looking forward to seeing them in concert. I do love the last line of the song, “Only Jesus can save us now.” But I think my favorite line is, “Ohheart, you’ve let me down, chasing love where it can’t be found.” I mentioned just one thing, but there are so many places that people chase love when true love is found only in Jesus. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6675. What a perfect Psalm for today, Linda. Just thinking of how shaken we were by the attacks ten years ago. And then this shows us how to not be shaken, by dwelling with the Lord.
    God bless you and your Psalm Sundays!

    Reply

    • Deb, It seems everyone was affected in some way by the 9-11 attacks. For me, I always remember that day as the beginning of the slow demise of a longtime friendship with someone who took offense to a prayer I emailed to everyone in my email address book, a heartfelt prayer for our nation, but she took offense to it being a prayer “in Jesus’ name.” Makes me sad still. 🙁 But I am not shaken in my faith! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6676. Thanks Linda,

    Isn’t it a beautiful Psalm?

    “It reminds me of what I need to do so that I “will never be shaken.” I also know that I would have a very difficult time doing some of these things without the help of the Holy Spirit.”
    So would I, Linda. So thankful for the Help that He is.

    Thank you for the reminders, Linda. Sometimes I forget to ask Him for help … even though He is right there waiting.

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I forget sometimes, too. But He never leaves us, never forsakes us, and is always ready to help us be more like Him and to stand firm in our faith if only we ask. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thank you. I before last year I wrote very little poetry, and what I had written before was not very good at all. I’m finding lately that it is a wonderful means of expressing and understanding my own feelings. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Angela, It would be great for a church event. If you just make it at home the temptation to eat it all will be strong! I was very glad my son decided to take some to school on Wed to share with friends. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6685. Hi Linda.
    Thanks for this encouragement. My husband is a Gideon and I am an Auxiliary. The auxiliary ladies place Bibles and Testaments in doctor and paramedical waiting rooms as well as in safe houses, women’s refuges and similar places and present them to graduating nurses.

    One of the greatest thrills is the numerous “returns” we receive – that is, testimonies from people who were saved as a result of reading a Gideon Bible. We receive quite a number from people who were about to take their own lives in a hotel room and “by chance” picked up the Gideon Bible.

    Another great thrill is the privilege of always carrying a small, soft-covered blue New Testament & Psalms for the sole purpose of giving it away. We buy these for a low $1.50 each. I give one to cash-register operators, salesmen, women sitting on a seat in the shopping malls etc. These New Testaments have a “where to find help in times of ….” in the front and the way of salvation in the back. They also have John 3:16 in many different languages and this is a good talking point with people of ethnic origins. I have never yet had any “bad” experiences in offering people a New Testament. What a great opportunity!

    One very good way a non-Gideon can assist the ministry is through their Card program. I expect a Card system was explained and is possibly available at the Church.

    Reply

    • Angela, That is so cool! Thank you for sharing your testimony of the work you have done for the Kingdom. We didn’t hear about the Card program. The gentleman who spoke to us asked for prayer and financial donations is all. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • The Card Ministry is actually part of the Auxiliary work, but many Gideons leave a rack of cards at the Church. New Card programs were introduced recently, but the Memorial cards have been used for many years. Here in Oz and I’m sure there too, donations are given to charities instead of giving flowers. The deceased’s family often nominates a preferred charity. The memorial cards are GIVEN at the funeral and the sender sends a donation to Gideons as per the form with the card. Each $5 will place a Bible or $1.50 will enable a pocket Testament to be given to High Schoolers, nurses etc.

        Cards recently introduced are equal in quality to purchased cards and available for birthdays, anniversaries, thinking of you, congratulations, etc. These cards are GIVEN to Christians in a mixed pack and once again, a donation is sent to Gideons.

        An enquiry to your local Gideons group would supply you with all the details and if you desired it, an Auxiliary lady would attend one of your ladies’ meetings and explain the system to you.

  6687. I’m so blessed by the poem and the story and your sister’s response. Then the beautiful ending of recovery! I love pictures and am so glad that all those 801 are back in your grasp again.
    God bless you and your family and all the memories you are making and pictures you are taking!

    Reply

    • Arron, Thanks. He was a good father and I miss him a lot. It’s funny, though, that in some ways it’s like I see him every day because my son is so like him in many ways even though they have never met. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6689. Wonderful! (the poem, the story and the recovery 😉 )

    “A picture is priceless
    for the words it can recall
    of precious days spent making memories
    that might otherwise fade with time.”
    That’s so true … photographs tell such wonderful stories. I love ‘listening’ over and over again.

    Thanks for sharing your joy with us. I praise God for the way the story turned out.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6690. smiles. and a tear. this brought back for me the death of my MIL a couple years ago and the process it has been for my wife in letting go and still holding on to the memories and beauty of the person that she was…

    Reply

    • Brian, I love how poetry can mean one thing to the writer, but then those who read it get something more. I trust the tear was a good one because it came with a beautiful memory. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6691. Hi Linda. Thanks for sharing your memories of your dad with the folks at the dVerse pub. This is how we keep our loved ones who have passed on alive: their spirit burns like a flame within our hearts, and when we let it shine out of us that light and warmth lives on to help others.

    Reply

    • Thank you! Yo-yoing is a good way to describe emotions when one struggles with depression. Thankfully my yo-yo doesn’t dip nearly as low as it once did. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Arron, Thank you. What a nice compliment, that you could feel the emotion. It sometimes scares me how strongly I can still feel those emotions that consumed me when I was severely depressed, but it reminds me to have compassion and spread a message of hope for those still in darkness. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6695. Thanks, Linda,

    Cake looks yum,! Coconut ranks high on the list of things liked much in this house…. I just may… 😉

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, You have to like lemon, too, because it may not seem like it from the ingredients, but the lemon flavor is very strong. I absolutely love the lemon and coconut combination. Let me know if you try it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Lemon may be the only fruit that’s always in this house. I think it’s safe to say lemon lives here 🙂

        I even take it in my water … I could work around the sugar (honey sub maybe ) but I’m getting the feeling I’m doing this for Thanksgiving 😉
        I’m making a note to self to come back and share the findings.
        Passing it on to my sisters too 🙂

        Blessings,
        ann

  6696. Linda, I may not have mentioned that this type of poem can be epic and go on for as many stanzas as you need. I think it has to be a minimum of three to work; but this was perfect! Your subject was perfectly suited to the form, and I know the wrapping and repetition really worked here. Excellent. G.

    Reply

    • Gay, Thank you so much for the kind comments! You were such a great teacher in your sharing of the ins and outs of this form. You did mention that the number of stanzas was flexible, and I did add an extra as I worked through it. I am so excited to be learning more about poetry at dVerse. What a great group of people! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Rufus, Thanks for stopping by. This is one cake that makes me wish I could hand out samples for every comment! Alas, WordPress has yet to offer a “share sample” widget. Wouldn’t that be cool, though? Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6698. Wow–that cake looks so delicious.

    I wasn’t sure where to comment on the Pantoum. It is also lovely. A great effort that works well.

    Reply

  6699. This sounds and looks delicious! As the temps begin to cool some, it is putting me in the baking mood. 🙂 Thank you for sharing this one with us!
    God bless you and your sweet family!

    Reply

    • Deb, We are finally getting some hot temperatures. Been over 90 all week and into next week, though it is supposed to cool down to the 70s at the end of next week. It was hot on Tuesday when my son baked this, but he didn’t seem to mind. Hope you get a chance to make this! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6701. You are really rocking this poetry thing! 🙂 I like to do forms, for some reason. I think I like the challenge and the rules to conform to. You did soooo good at this . . .and you just learned it! wow!
    God bless you and your poetry that sings of Him and His hope!

    Reply

    • Deb, It helped that Gay Cannon was such a good teacher of the form over at dVerse. Normally I don’t like the rules, but this particular form just seemed like it would work for this subject matter. Did I ever thank you for getting me started on poetry in the first place? You were definitely my inspiration! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • You sweet friend you . . .yes, you have thanked me before. Not sure what I did, but you are welcome! It seems to just come naturally out of you. 🙂 And then you share them so we can read and enjoy and be blessed by them! Wonderful!

  6702. this is beautiful…love the rollercoaster of emotion and the spiritual impilcations of your words as well…uplifting…well spun to the form as well…i liked…smiles.

    Reply

    • Brian, I had to add an extra stanza to get the full rollercoaster with the form. I do like the challenge of fitting a poem into a specific form, but still writing what I know. I hear the sestina is coming back on two weeks. I might have to get started now to pull that one off! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6704. This was just perfect! And thank you for helping us think of the good in marriage today. I absolutely have to do that. God said so. 🙂
    “enjoying the future built
    hand in hand.”
    I loved that ending!
    God bless you and your hubby and your love for one another!

    Reply

    • Deb, It kind of goes along with the idea of things not being perfect. So many people expect the flame to burn hot for their entire marriage like it did in the beginning. But it just doesn’t work that way, and I think that’s actually a good thing. God bless you and your marriage, too. You are in my prayers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6705. Powerful and true.
    People robbed me of my childhood but He gave me a lifetime of being His beloved adopted child.
    People made me a man hater but He gave me a wonderful husband and five “perfect” sons.
    He took my sin and gave me His righteousness.

    What an amazing Father God!

    Reply

    • Angela, I love how you took the truth of this poem – which was based on my own experience – and made it your own! That is so cool. He is amazing, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6706. Linda, I enjoy the type of bread pudding you describe, but I am chasing another type of bread pudding recipe – the Hampshire (England) bread pudding. This is made with suet and lots of spice. It is a slice and is the tastiest (and probably most fattening) pudding I’ve ever tasted. I ate loads of it when holidaying in Hampshire but it was different and not as good in other English counties.

    Reply

    • Angela, Hmmm, I don’t know about bread pudding with suet, but I suppose I’d try it given the chance. I discovered I didn’t much care for Irish Plum Duff, though. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6707. Good stuff, Linda 🙂
    Much to reflect on. Funny, you don’t see when the years go but they fly by so quickly. 🙂
    Thanks for sharing! Wishing you many, many more beautiful years together.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, The years to fly, especially when you focus on the good in them. I think they tend to drag when we focus on the negative. And no, I’m not suggesting a negative outlook in order to slow down time, just making an observation. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thank you. I never thought of my story as being great. I just hope by telling it I can help someone else have a great story of emerging from the darkness, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6709. Fabulous post… This can be such a tough thing to do, especially if we want people to see and hear what we think He wants us to share. A long time ago, I was trying to come up with an Acrostic for Home, what I had come up with was that home is where I can live within the Honesty Of My Enemies… meaning the place where those who would speak ill of me, still I am touched by the grace of God and live in his honor, and for those who are my friends, where I can feel I am giving the glory of their praises to Him.

    Reply

    • I like that – Honesty Of My Enemies. If I am hated for belonging to Christ, may those who hate me truly have enough evidence to prove their accusations that I am His! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6710. Thanks, Linda
    “I have had words churn and boil in my mind and in my heart, felt the fear of saying or writing them, but had to push through that fear and let those words fly and land wherever God desires.”

    Heavy stuff…
    I too have struggled with sharing what I think He wants me to share. If it were up to us we would could and dice and splice until what’s left is noneffective ‘feel good” stuff that is pleasing to the ears. May the Holy Spirit always quicken our hearts to speak as He wills. Our God is able to direct His words to the hearts that need them – whether or not we are aware of what we need to hear.

    @ April. “It is all about God speaking. Me writing.” – Amen … though sometimes the human in me forgets.

    Thanks for bringing this to us, Linda. Greatly appreciated.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It would be so much easier to slice and dice to leave just the “feel good” stuff, and that is what many churches do today, but I don’t think that is what God wants. Reminds me of a Billy Graham quote I read once: “I believe God would have us go to hard places, not easy ones.” Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6711. Linda, thank you so much. This wasn’t an easy post in itself, to bring to us, was it? But you did. I often think of those prophets and what they went through, whenever God asks me to do something . . .something not nearly as hard as what was asked of them. I want to share this with Larry Who . . .he would love and understand that quote.
    God bless you and all that He speaks through you today!

    Reply

    • Deb, This was one of those posts where I sat down with absolutely no idea what I was going to write. I opened my laptop, closed my eyes, and prayed for something to write because my mind was a blank slate. Share away with Larry Who; I’d love to hear his feedback. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6713. This was wonderful! You ran from that darkness, and in the light you found the promise and love of spirit…He is there…and He is there for all! Well done

    Reply

    • Thank you. Eventually I did run, though for years it would have taken someone dragging me out kicking and screaming from the darkness because I didn’t know they were trying to help. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6715. Linda
    Wonderful post. I know exactly what you mean about having to push through the fear. I present myself to God as an empty vessel asking Him to fill me up and give me courage to share my thoughts. It is all about God speaking. Me writing.
    Have a wonderful day.
    Blessings,
    April

    Reply

  6717. Linda, what an amazing story! Of course I don’t remember all those things because they were all behind the scenes…it’s an amazing testimony to the fact that it’s not about ‘the wedding day’, but about the ‘marriage’! Congrats on a great 25 years! You and Randy are truly a well-matched, ‘complete-each-other’ kind of couple! love y’all! 🙂

    Reply

    • Patty, I know, I think what most people remember is that we had such a fun reception party, and perhaps that it was really hot! What a nice way to describe us, as a ‘complete-each-other’ kind of couple!’ I never really thought of us that way, but I agree it’s true. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6718. The big 2-5 indeed is “quite an accomplishment”! conGREATulations, Linda. Did you read this to your husband today?

    You cracked me up, especially with this line: “It took me almost 20 years to even be able to have marigolds in my yard again.”

    Stay Godlocked! : )

    Reply

    • Geoff, Thanks. It feels pretty good to have made it this far with excellent prospects for another 25, the Lord willing. I didn’t read this to my husband, but I told him I was writing it and he knows my blog address. 😉 As for cracking you up, sometimes the truth is funnier than fiction! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6719. I liked the feel of repetition here, as if counting the days or years of darkness. Yet always, there is a redeeming feel when you reach out after finding the true source of strength.

    Reply

  6720. smiles. each of us are given our hardships…that they move us to empathy with others is a great response to them…redeeming them…

    Reply

    • Brian, What a waste those days of darkness would be if they had not produced a strong empathy and compassion for others! I like the idea that those years have been redeemed. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6721. I wondered how those three were going to connect. I never would have figured it out though! I love the memories you have shared with us. It makes me think that not so perfect is better is some ways. (maybe years later) And hearing about your wedding made me think too about how simple it can be without spending a small fortune (mine was like this too) . . .and how it doesn’t make the marriage any less for spending less.
    God bless you and hubby and son too, on this special day!

    Reply

    • Deb, Where there is an abundance of love, less money isn’t a problem. Our whole wedding was quite affordable. My best friend and bride’s maid made my dress for $182, and it was beautiful! Last year for our anniversary we went to Qdoba Mexican grill on a buy-one-get-one deal and spent $6.95 total for dinner, but we had a great time. Tonight we are going to Red Lobster for all-you-can-eat shrimp and my son made us a lemon coconut cake. Perfect is not always better (except in the case of Jesus – He is perfect and He is awesome!) 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6722. Hope you have a fantastic day today, Linda 🙂

    Thanks for sharing your memories with us. May your marriage continue to be blessed by our amazing God!

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

  6724. Happy Anniversary – we also had yellow roses and white daisies for our wedding – Nothing is ever perfect and seems to be a combination of joy and things unplanned
    Prayers for your day
    susie @ sptp

    Reply

    • Susie, Thanks for the anniversary wishes and prayers. When I think of things not being perfect and of accepting them as they are anyway, I think of how we are not perfect but God loves us just the same. It’s a good reminder of His love for me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6725. Beautiful song , beautiful story, and beautiful ministry. Thank you for sharing about the Gideons. I didn’t know all of that before and the numbers of Bibles distributed are quite amazing. What an encouragement to know all that is being done to tell His story.
    God bless you, Linda, as you help us to help others!

    Reply

    • Deb, It is pretty amazing, isn’t it? 1.7 billion is a lot of Bibles with a purpose that will not return void. I was happy to be able to share the news of the Gideons’ ministry. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6727. Happy Anniversary to you and your beloved! 25 is a beautiful number 🙂

    Thanks for sharing the Psalm too. Such a wonderful piece 😉

    Blessings in abundance over and over again!
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you! 🙂 It’s hard to believe that I’ve been married more than half of my life, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Looking forward to the next 25. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6728. Happy Anniversary to you! I love this Psalm . .. “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.” That gives me much to be thankful of and rejoice in!
    God bless you as you praise Him today!

    Reply

  6730. Hi Linda

    Sorry I couldn’t share one of my own. Here’s one I found online at http://www.squidoo.com/bread-pudding-recipe. Looks like this satisfies the gooey and sweet factors 😉

    [i]” This Bread Pudding Recipe is very easy to make and will have you looking like a professional cook in no time! Make this bread pudding recipe tonight for dessert and your family will love you! Follow along with my simple recipe below for Bread Pudding! It’s great for breakfast or dessert and is delicious with milk poured on top! Whatever the reason this bread pudding becomes your number one comfort food; savor every bite. It is truly the soul satisfying treat that most people crave.

    Ingredients for Bread Pudding Recipe:
    2 cups whole milk (or 2 cups half & half)
    1/4 cup butter
    2/3 cup sugar (white or brown, depending on taste preference)
    3 eggs
    2 teaspoons cinnamon
    1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    3 cups bread, torn into small pieces (french bread works best)
    1/2 cup raisins (optional)

    Follow the directions below for Bread Pudding Recipe
    1. In medium saucepan, over medium heat, heat milk (or half & half) just
    until film forms over top. Combine butter and milk, stirring until
    butter is melted. Cool to lukewarm.
    2. Combine sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Beat with an
    electric mixer at medium speed for 1 minute. Slowly add milk mixture.
    3. Place bread in a lightly greased 1 1/2 quart casserole.
    4. Sprinkle with raisins if desired. Pour batter on top of bread.
    5. Bake at 350 degrees F for 45 to 50 minutes or until set. Serve warm.

    If you make the sauce to put on top of your bread pudding, adjust the
    sugar in the bread pudding recipe, change it to 1/3 cups sugar (the
    sauce has the other 1/3 cup in it).

    Now make the Bread Pudding Sauce:
    1 cup whole milk
    2 Tbsp. butter
    1/3 cup granulated white sugar
    1 tsp. vanilla
    1 Tbsp. flour
    dash of salt

    Mix everything together
    Bring to a boil for 3 – 4 minutes, stirring constantly.
    Set aside for 5 minutes, then pour on warm bread pudding.” [i/]

    Reply

    • Ann, This recipe does sound very good! Thanks. As soon as our current heat wave (by which I mean a few days of 90 degree weather) I am going to try this. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6732. Linda, this was so powerful and healing to read! It puts us into His love and hands and doesn’t allow our pasts to control us. I just love how you worded it , what he did versus what He did and does!
    God bless you as you help others to Him for healing today!

    Reply

    • Deb, I know people who are still allowing past trauma’s to dictate who they are, and it just doesn’t have to be that way. Jesus will heal if we are willing to forgive and focus on Him and not our past. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6735. Dear Linda,
    Your words are always a comfort and a balm for my soul. Always.
    God bless you for sharing so much of what is in your heart with us!
    Kay

    Reply

  6736. What a wonderful analogy!
    I know nothing at all about gambling, but I see the analogy and it certainly speaks volumes. Someone once said it is impossible to write a parable on the lines of the ones Jesus told, but this would be the closest.

    The big difference between throwing a dice and trusting God to work things out is the nature of God. He only desires the very best for us and He is not only willing but able to work all things to accomplish His purpose in our lives.

    What an amazing God!

    Reply

    • Angela, What a wonderful observation, that the difference is the nature of God! He does want only the best for us. I think that’s sometimes why He holds the dice a little longer than we would like, waiting for the circumstances to be right. 🙂 What an amazing God, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6737. God bless you Linda in your search! I hope a good recipe turns up here. I have never had bread pudding. ! So, I’m of no help in the recipe department. And i know what you mean about just trying recipes blindly. Sometimes when I google a recipe there is a ratings and comments from other people who have tried it. I read those and try to go with the one with the best ratings. Just in case someone doesn’t send you one! 🙂

    Reply

  6738. I found this to be a great reminder of Biblical strength and truth. It had an immediate Beth Moore feel to it, taking me back to the Believing God study I was part of years ago. I look forward to reading more of your work. … I liked that you didn’t use commas in your lists; it’s fun to break the rules in poetry. : )

    Reply

    • Thank you. I’m pretty new to writing poetry and generally write what I feel. I didn’t know there were any rules in poetry. 😉 For me, the only important rule is that God be glorified. I’m glad this poem was a blessing to you. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6739. Hiya, Linda! You’ve received some stellar critiques here, so I’ll just add a few commentsuggestions for now:

    — I like how you incorporated modifiers from Heb. 4:12 into the second lines of your first three stanzas.
    — Regarding the verbs “fills,” “changes,” “judges,” etc., consider using vivid, unpredictable words instead, such as “packs,” “charges,” “slices,” etc.
    –S4,L3: In the light of Carys second concern, maybe add “and you” in parentheses after “me”

    Will you be posting a revision?

    GeOwl

    Reply

    • Geoff, Thanks for the additional feedback. I did edit this one a little based on Luke’s feedback and am going to leave it as is for now because I want to preserve having written it and the feedback. But I already have a similar but different poem swirling around in my head taking the critiques into account for future posting, probably for next Wed. or Thursday. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6740. I loved the poem! What a great thing to be thankful for, so perfect for Thankful Thursday. I will need to go more carefully through your critiques, to learn too! ha!
    What I liked was the different ways you saw the Word of God. 🙂 I never thought of watchful before and loved thinking about it being active!
    Thank you for writing and sharing a blessing!
    God bless you and all the places He takes you with your poems! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I actually made some changes in reponse to Luke’s critique. The others have me thinking about a whole new poem that I want to write. His Word being active and alive has always thrilled me. There is always something new to apply to my life whenever I read it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6742. “… sharp and judges my thoughts.” And it’s a good thing. Our actions are always preceded by out thoughts. Can you imagine where we’d be without God’s judgment, knowing that He sees all?

    For me the Bible creates a desire to honor Him, not behave against His will. Wish I could say I always did it perfectly… I’m still a believer in training! Awesome poem… hugs : )

    Reply

    • Linda, That is reall what I wanted to do with this poem is to honor God. 🙂 I’m still in training, too. A work in progress – just need to keep moving forward. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6743. The repetition device, using your key, titular phrase to start every stanza is powerful and holds the piece with a firm hand.

    Have you accidentally cut a word or line off the end? It seems quite abrupt; in fact I’m not even sure I understand it. Does it need rephrasing?

    I’m having no trouble with the short, terse lines, as long as the caps at the beginning are dropped (most modern poets don’t use caps bar following a period etc). They stick out in short lines and ones that run-on (where the though/sentence spills over onto the next) in particular, hampering the flow. Sans caps it would look like this ( in my opinion, even if you decide to go for longer more lyrical lines, dropping the caps will do the piece service) –

    The Word of God

    The Word of God
    is alive
    fills my life
    with blessings >see the run-on here? ‘fills my life with blessings’
    wisdom
    comfort

    The Word of God
    is active
    changes my heart
    with conviction
    truth
    Love

    The Word of God
    is sharp
    judges my thoughts
    with precision
    repentance
    faith

    The Word of God
    is watchful
    sees me
    with understanding
    mercy
    grace

    The Word of God
    is a lamp
    by which I see me
    as He sees

    Reply

    • Luke, Thanks for the wonderful feedback. I am new to poetry, and so I appreciate any help I can get. I do see how it flows better without the caps. The last stanza is not missing a line. I suppose the fourth line could end with the word “me” as it is supposed to convey that God’s Word helps me to see me the way God sees me, and so I am humbled by that knowledge. He sees all my flaws and weaknesses, which I am likely to overlook out of pride. Okay, that was a lot, which now that I re-read the stanza is not well conveyed. Thanks again. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6744. Linda, I’m so glad you joined us at dVerse and offered us some inpiration. Julie (Carys) and Laurie pretty much did a good job with critique. My suggestion, like theirs, is to focus in on specificity–maybe a descriptive metaphor for the Word. For example, think about your lamp simile–already abundant and appropriately so in the Bible. What do we have today that gives light, or comfort or strength etc. that was not known then? I hope to see more you you!

    Reply

    • Thanks, I appreciate the feedback. With this poem I was trying to use some other similes besides the lamp because I have used “Light” in several other poems I’ve written recently. Frankly, the lamp was an afterthought, a way of trying to finish the poem. The similes I was trying to focus on are the Word as a sword that cuts deep into the soul to remove the evil and make room for the light. These comments are really helping me to see where what I intended was not completely conveyed. I’m looking forward to the next iteration of this poem. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6745. Dear Linda,
    As poets we all want to take on the things we love, we feel passionate about, be it our family, politics, things we fear, injustice, despair, grief, death and sadness. Yes these are the “huge” topics and have been written about since man could make any marks to communicate his thoughts.

    I agree with Carys here and suggest you go to http://dversepoets.com/2011/08/18/meeting-the-bar-critique-and-craft-2/ and read some of the linked poems which were dealing with these huge subjects. Getting a “small” symbol and examining it to make your point is fresh and becomes your own statement saying it in a way no one else has.

    That way you avoid some of the flaws in this piece. There are a number of commonalities in your language. I’m not sure they would be considered cliche but certainly they are platitudes and while what you are saying is heartfelt and important, it isn’t new and it doesn’t give us you…as opposed to any other speaker. That is what we strive for as poets, to find our own voice, as distinctive as our faces, the light in our eyes, our fingerprints, our life expressed through the choices we’ve made. Bring that unique thing that is you to your work.

    I’d also like to direct you to a young woman’s blog who exemplifies this and someone I’d like to share with you. Her name is Emily Wirenga and I just visited her blog. Not all the posts she shared with us are up, but she is amazingly frank and intimate in her poetic conversations. She makes you feel you are in her kitchen having coffee as she gives you an artistic sketch of her own thoughts and feelings. Her blog is here: http://canvaschild.blogspot.com/

    Her faith flows from her fingers in every line with such honesty and generosity that she never fails to bring me to tears.

    Reply

  6746. Hi, Linda- I love all poems on faith, so this is difficult for me to critique, but this piece is general and I agree that maybe if you narrowed it down to an observance and focused on that… like an example of how your faith has worked in your life… that it would be more personal.

    Also, since God is all-encompassing, I think a different form would be more effective; rather than short terse lines, longer flowing ones.

    The message is beautiful… and I agree!

    Thanks for stopping by my blog, too. I left a little note for you under your critique.

    Reply

    • Laurie, Thanks for the feedback. I did feel, when I wrote this, that maybe the short terse lines were not quite right. I have written other poems about how faith has made a difference in my life, but my goal with this one was really to focus on the Word and not on me so much. I am loving the input, though, and will likely take another crack at this subject matter, starting with this poem and incorporating the ideas from you and Carys. Thanks. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6747. Hi there Linda. I’m always a little cautious about critiquing poems about faith but I’m assuming that as you’ve linked to a critique feature that you do want honest feedback.

    Your work is heartfelt and deeply personal and the repetition of the first line of each stanza works well to reiterate your point.

    I’m not sure if you read my article a couple of weeks ago about writing about big topics but they really don’t come bigger than this. My advice when writing on universal topics such as faith which have been written about for centuries is that we have to find new and interesting ways to present our ideas and I don’t think you’ve quite managed that here. As I see it there are two problems here. The first one is that you have tackled the subject head on. With big topics it is often far more effective to try and focus on an object of interest or intrigue to draw the reader in. You’ve mentioned a lamp at the end of the poem and I think this would be an excellent aspect to focus on. The other problem that I see here is that this is all about the narrator; what she thinks, what she feels, how her faith affects her. the reader is, in effect, excluded from the poem so I think that’s another aspect that you need to consider.

    I hope that you find this advice useful and that it helps you to hone your skills and develop as a poet.

    Reply

    • Carys, Thank you for the feedback. I am fairly new to poetry so any ideas I can gain from this critique session are appreciated. It is a big topic, I agree, and I hadn’t considered whether I was looking at it in a new way. I will check out your article for future reference. I may tweak this one as you suggest to try to bring the lamp idea in at an earlier point and make it more of a focus. I’ll have to ponder that one. Although the Word being a lamp is not a new concept either.

      I will have to think more about your second critique. When I write, especially poetry, it tends to be from my own perspective. I only know what I think and feel, and do not wish to presume what others think and feel. But I never thought of this as excluding the reader. I will have to look at this poem from the perspective and see if I can write another poem on this topic taking that into account. Thanks for your perspective. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6748. Linda,
    Quite the poet these days.;-) I really like this, and how you highlight the fact that being able to study the Word of God is not a given, it is a gift. Awesome encouragement!. God Bless-Jim

    Reply

  6749. “But when you think about how powerful His Word is, I suppose it makes sense to keep it out of the hands of people if you want to control them. God’s Word, when it takes hold of the heart, will not be displaced.”

    Amen!

    The word of God
    Perseveres
    Won’t return void
    Or pass away

    I just had to chime in. 🙂

    Great poem!

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  6751. Amen Linda! We have not because we ask not.
    By the way, I went back and left you a comment on your post about the dream of forgiveness. Wow! What a clear sign from God! Why can’t all dreams be this obvious?

    Reply

  6752. Linda, I’m so grateful you shared this glorious story. It reminds me of a definition I once heard of depression: anger turned inward. Also, it brings to mind the parable of the unmerciful servant from Matthew 18. You know the story well, I’m sure. But the part that has changed my heart most of all is the final verse, “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.” Unless I forgive from the heart I too will be turned over to the tormenters.
    One day a friend of mine shared with me a revelation she’d had about this verse. The ‘tormenters’ could very well be mental anguish, depression, or physical illness resulting from unforgiveness. We could be destroyed for lack of this knowledge, couldn’t we?

    Reply

    • Debra, About two months before this dream, my sister actually gave me a book called “Depression is Anger Turned Inward.” Although I don’t believe that is the only cause of depression, hanging onto anger will definitely lead to torment of the soul. I agree that the Matthew 18 parable fits. Thanks for adding that. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6754. Sometimes those thrown together posts are the best! 🙂 With your heart toward Him and your writing ability, all your posts are good and needed.
    Thank you for reminding us about praying for all things, the small and the big. It’s often the way He answers about those small things that impacts me so much . . .that He cares and is listening, loves us that much.
    God bless you, Linda, as you help us to keep praying!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are such a wonderful encouragement to me! I do know that I have no writing ability that wasn’t given to me by God, and am so blessed to be able to use it to His Glory and for the benefit of His people. I agree that it is the answers to small things that impact me the most, too. To think that the little details we care about, He cares about too, just amazes me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6755. How many times have you heard someone say, “God helps those who help themselves”… as though they’re quoting something profound from the Bible?

    Bringing the small things before God is essential, I agree. How can we as Christians have a truly intimate relationship with Him when we call our girlfriends before we call on Him?

    I really like this post because it spells out specific instructions and examples for praying and hearing God’s voice in return. Great topic!

    Reply

    • Linda, I have heard that quote, and I believe it was actually Benjamin Franklin who said it. It really isn’t Biblical at all. God helps those who are humble and seek His help, those who are willing to admit they can’t help themselves. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Kellie, The more I am open about where I’ve been and how God has delivered me, the more I find that I am not alone in my experience. That is both sad and comforting. Psalms are my refuge as well. Thanks for stopping by. It’s nice to meet you. I will check out your blog when I have more time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6758. Prayer is an art and so is stopping to hear the answer
    I have been reading books on praise and prayer –
    So beautiful to know our God wants to hear the “little stuff” from us
    Prayers for your day

    Reply

    • Thank you for sharing yet another way we can “pray without ceasing,” by leaving little “Prayers for your day” in blog comments! 🙂 Now let me stop to listen for the answer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6759. Linda
    Very good post. With the kind of summer our family has had, prayer is what has gotten us through. Our church has a prayer chapel that is opened daily for people to use. Yesterday, I shared with a friend who had just lost her husband that I don’t know what people do without God in their lives and prayer. She agreed.
    Blessings to you this week!

    Reply

    • April, I agree. I remember how it was when I tried to weather the storms without God and prayer. I was lost and miserable. So glad you are weathering the challenges of the summer with Him! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • LeRoy, I appreciate the encouragement. I kind of threw this together at the last minute last night and wasn’t really sure it was any good. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6763. LInda, I am profoundly thankful that you thought to mention my blog, as I was sure it would provoke some folks. But my blog exists TO provoke, in the best way, to stimulate discussion. Yours was one of the best responses to my poem I received. We are all under God, and yet God created each of us with free will and the curiosity to explore, to ask questions, and ultimately, to love each other despite whether or not we agree on any given point. So I do send my very real love to you and all on your blog, especially Debbie, who brought us together. Peace, Amy

    Reply

    • Amy, I was pleased to share your poem, and hopefully it makes people think. There is a precarious balance between love and truth, and I appreciate anyone who helps me keep that balance in my own life. You do that. I am blessed that Debbie (and God) has brought us to each other’s blogs. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6765. Sorry I’m so late getting here to the Tuesday Three party! Blessed that you included something simple. 🙂 And Linda, blessed also that you included something from Amy too. Now off to read about glorifying God in our churches! Thank you for all you do to encourage us and keep us connected!
    God bless you and your heart centered on Him!

    Reply

  6766. beautiful…love the transformation through your verse…there are many that need to hear this in their lives…feeling stuck in that darkness…i once was….

    Reply

    • Brian, Thank you. I wrote this for those who need to hear that there is hope in the darkness. The real transformation in my life is even more wonderful than verse can portray. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6767. You had me walking with you, from the darkness to the light, and rooting for you all the way.

    This is a wonderful piece, especially a testament to the power of faith.

    Keep it going!

    Cheers!

    Reply

    • Jannie, This comment made me smile, because knowing the end when I started writing the poem it never occurred to me that someone reading it for the first time would have this reaction. I’m glad I let Him rule the day, too. The power of the love and light of God helped me overcome. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Pat, Thank you for the encouraging comment. I am fairly new to poetry (with the exception of some really bad stuff I wrote many years ago) and find it a wonderful diversion from my usual prose. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Claudia, I enjoy showcasing other blogs. Who knows, you might show up in one of My Tuesday Three sometime. I didn’t even notice until I was done that two of the three posts were poetry. I don’t know what it is with me and poetry these days. Hmmmmm. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6771. Thank you Linda – What a gift you are giving not only through your own blog but also sharing other’s blogs. I definately will check the blog’s “in” my readings. We are so blessed to have some many people sharing being love with our God

    Reply

  6772. Thanks Linda 🙂
    You do a great job at connecting…
    I had read Deb’s … now I’m off to check the others!
    Blessings,
    ann

    SIDEBAR: – Can you access your ‘following’ list on WordPress? ‘My Subscriptions’ has vanished. When I click on the link that normally displays the blogs I subscribe to, I get this “Nothing to read! Why not find your friends, subscribe to some blogs, or have a look at Freshly Pressed?”
    How weird is that? I’m already subscribed to quite a few!
    Thx

    Reply

    • Ann, Connecting people to God and with each other is what life is all about! I love doing it. As for my subscriptions, I’m having trouble with my list, too. A few show up, but only ones that aren’t WordPress blogs and the DailyPost blog that is by WordPress staff. It’s happened before, so hopefully they will get it fixed soon. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6773. This is just so good, Linda! That prompt was made for you. I can picture you coming across that and just not being able to let it go. 🙂 Loving all the support and exposure it is getting too, thus Jesus.
    God bless you, wonderful writer and friend!

    Reply

    • Deb, I knew you would like this one. 🙂 You should check out dVerse and maybe submit your own poetry link some time. They have three opportunities a week to participate. I just added them to the blogs I subscribe to so I will get a notice when they have an opportunity. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6774. That’s a wonderful song. Love it . . .and now I understand the name of the band too. Thank you! I’m thinking that they played a song of theirs on the radio here for awhile . . .but I can’t remember the title of it.
    The idea of this song, of His mercy haunting us, is going to stay with me. I love how you ended this too . . .knowing that it’s okay. You are with Him forever.
    God bless you and your love of Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, It’s strange how I just can’t get this song out of my head, even though I’ve listened to other music since I last heard it. The rest of the CD is really good, too, but this one song just really spoke to me. The other line I love is “I’ll love you til the end.” I know I love Him because He first loved me, and that’s the way it should be. What a wonderful Savior! Peace and mercy, my dear friend.

      Reply

  6775. Thanks, Linda.
    Never heard of this band before. Thanks for the intro. Will check them out some more too.
    The theme of redemption and restoration seems to be haunting me lately…
    I’m chewing!
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, You know eventually you have to stop chewing and swallow. 😉

      This band is from Oregon, so I’m surprised I hadn’t heard them before, but I don’t listen to the radio so that is probably why they were new to me. The whole CD is very good and I’m glad I forked out the $10. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6776. Great line, yes, haunting: Were there times I should have stood up and claimed Jesus as my Lord and Savior, even as my friend, but did not? Perhaps, even if only by my silence when boldness escaped me.
    GREAT SONG!
    I pray for the Spirit to fill me so full I will over-flow into others lives
    Prayers for your day

    Reply

  6777. Thanks for the poem and the link, Linda.
    ( Thanks for always finding links to share with us. Iron sharpens iron. Much appreciated!)
    I shall go a-reading!
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I was pleasantly surprised by the poets from this site who came and commented and who also are believers! I’m sure not all who post their links at dVerse are, but it’s always a blessing to find fellow believers in the blogosphere. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6778. Thanks for sharing this Linda

    It breaks my heart over and over again….

    Thankful His promises are forever true. The present sufferings will one day cease but living in the now requires much.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6782. Thank you, Linda, for this encouragement that God does see and care and will help. I also appreciate what you are saying about CEO’s and big corporations who are harming others in a way that no one says anything to them about. Instead they are applauded for being so shrewd and knowing how to make a profit.
    God bless you and your desire to see His justice done.

    Reply

    • Deb, I know that I am blessed to work for an organization that does care about its employees and about justice. It just makes me sad that there are so many companies that really don’t. 🙁 But I was also encouraged by this Psalms that God’s justice will ultimately prevail. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6783. I loved how He gave you this analogy! 🙂 It has me thinking about all stages of the game. The not being in the game part, the waiting part, and then the accepting the outcome part. It is all much more of an adventure and blessing when we know Jesus and can trust Him in it all. Thank you, Linda! And God bless you and your congregation as a new pastor begins his time with you!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you. Our interim pastor was awesome when he did the sermon yesterday after the announcement had been made that the pastor we had called had accepted. He really encouraged us to trust God and to embrace our new pastor, not to compare him to other pastors we’ve had, and to know that as interim pastor he has been so blessed to be with us for the past year. We’ve been blessed by his presence, too! God has used him where he is and I have no doubt God has a wonderful plan for him and his family. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • David, This comment made me smile. 🙂 The whole reason I blog is to help others know the love of God that I know. I’m glad I could provide an answer you were looking for. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6788. smiles. that is the essence of faith…things that are yet unseen crashing into our reality…well penned and i echo the welcome to the pub…and hopefully we will be seeing you around…left a note for you in the comments as well…

    Reply

    • Brian, What a blessing I have received in positive comments about this poem. I will certainly be back, and am looking forward to reading others poetry as well. Have read a few good ones already (but then had to take my son school shopping). So much to read and so little time it seems. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6789. hmm i agree – there are things we just can’t see with our normal eyes, no matter how hard we try…beautifully penned linda, nice to meet you and welcome at the pub….doors are open three times a week and there are always a lot of nice people around

    Reply

    • Claudia, Thanks for the nice comment and welcome. I’m excited to have found the pub. Now just to find the time to spend there reading a bit of what others write as well. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6790. Yes, our economy is worse than ever. But the evening news is so full of moms throwing babies off of balconies to their death, and parents dismembering their kids and scattering their parts, that people who are quietly giving and supporting the needy rarely make headlines.

    It’s the “wicked and the greedy” who give cheerful givers a bad name.

    Reply

    • Linda, I seldom watch the evening news, though such terrible things don’t escape my notice. But you are right that those who are trying to help the needy seldom, if ever, make the news. The Scriptures warn of such days, but it is a comfort for me to know that ultimately God’s justice will prevail.

      I guess the reason the greed and wickedness of those who run big corporations bothers me more than those you mentioned is that everyone can agree that parents who mistreat or kill their children are wicked, but the actions of CEOs, Wall street, and big corporations seems to be accepted as a normal part of capitalism. But if corporations like Walmart would care more about their employees, pay them better, and give them enough hours and benefits, it would hardly put a dent in the lifestyle of the shareholders but would make all the difference to the employees. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I may have been overzealous in my comment. The night before I wrote that I was at a dinner with a corporate giant who recently finished building a hospital, a major supplier to big box stores who flies volunteers to Haiti to minister to the sick, and a third who took over a rehab… financially and hands on leadership… when funding dried up.

        All wealthy Christian men, and all would be mortified if their generosity was exposed. (LaLa Land is a very small town, and word gets around!)
        What a night it was!

        Sorry if I was too bold before… : )

      • Linda, No need to apologize! I appreciate your zealous championing of the mistreated. There are all kinds of wickedness in the world and each of us is exposed to different aspects of it. I know that there are wealthy people who use their wealth to help the needy. But there are many who don’t. I know we can agree, though, that God’s justice will prevail in the end because He knows the hearts of us all. Peace, Linda

  6792. Thank you, Linda

    “So what uncertainty do you have in your life right now? Have you just thrown the dice or have they been hanging in the air for what seems like an eternity? ”
    Eternity … and then some 🙂 … The whole ‘frozen in time’ concept

    “Take heart, God is in control. When the time is right, He will cause the dice to fall as they should. Trust in Him for His perfect timing in all things. ”
    I have been finding loads of encouragement in blogs today. Thank you for adding to the pile! 🙂

    The perfection of His timing is my life’s anthem but sometimes, just sometimes the flesh in me cries out for deliverance and then He sends me grace and more grace. His grace is sufficient … I choose to believe that.

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

    • Linda,

      I went to church today thinking about this post and the life applications. It was a real treat to me that God met me at the point of my need right in the worship service! The message was on-point and the worship team did all the songs I felt I needed to hear including Blessed Be Your Name, Healer and Shout To The Lord. By the time they got to Shout To The Lord, I was singing, jumping and dancing like there’s no tomorrow! You see, I have been holding on to His promises even though everything around me says “what’s the use?”. Today He reminded me that “nothing compares to the promise I have in (Him)”! And that’s HUGE!

      I would be happy if He took the thorn but I am ever so grateful that He gives His grace to help me over the rough patches. Our God is awesome!!

      Blessings and thanks again for sharing. I’m not a gambling person either. I like to see the plan laid before me but sometimes His will requires tossing the dice and trusting Him to give us the play we need – even if it’s not the play we want!!!!! May His name be glorified!

      Resting in Him,
      ann

      Reply

      • Ann, This is the hard part: “sometimes His will requires tossing the dice and trusting Him to give us the play we need – even if it’s not the play we want!!!!!” It sounds like you had a wonderful worship time this morning. We sang Open the Eyes of My Heart, one of my favorites. Plus we got the news that the pastor we called has accepted the call. Now we just need to go through the formality of a congregational vote. 🙂 Peace, Linda

  6793. “We can let the waiting make us miserable, or we can trust that God is in control.”

    What an awesome example your interim pastor is of the ultimate faithful craps player! Sometimes those long periods of waiting build the strongest faith…

    During my only trip to Vegas, I couldn’t bear to throw the dice, and instead bought a very nice lipstick at Neiman Marcus. No regrets…

    Great analogy in today’s post! Thanks… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I’ve only been to Vegas twice. The first time I was 4-months pregnant and every time my husband put a quarter in a slot machine I’d say, “There goes another quarter!” I hated it. The second time was for a work conference. I did my presentation, then sat at the pool afterwards until it was time for my flight. Not my favorite town. But I’m glad you liked the analogy. I often think in analogies, and it’s nice when it works out to make sense. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Susie, Thanks, I like that line, too. This whole post came to me as I was praying for our interim pastor the other morning. He is such a wonderful example of someone with His perfect peace. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6795. Thanks Linda.
    I love to sing but I can’t sing a note in tune. I’m not too bad in a large group and can sing praises wholeheartedly . . . . . just as long as there is no one near me singing “parts” or the lead singer seems to be singing in a higher key. Now, one who often leads the singing – and has a good voice – loves to sing “high” and I find it impossible to take part. I used to feel critical or sulk because I couldn’t sing . . . but the Lord convicted me and I now just concentrate on the words and worship Him.

    Reply

    • Angela, What a wonderful testimony of how the Holy Spirit changed your heart! It is so wonderful to be able to let go of the critical spirit and worship in Spirit and in truth. I’ll bet the Lord loves to hear you sing His praises even when you are off key. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6796. Thank you! You have no idea how much God has used your recipe Fridays in my life. Even when it isn’t something my family would eat, it yet encourages me to keep trying and instills a joy in the whole cooking process, renewing me where I need it so much! I make the same ol’ salad all the time. This sounds like a great one that everyone should like!!! 🙂
    God bless you and all the ways He works through you!
    Have a great weekend! We are off to house sit again for a few days! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I don’t know what I would do if my family was a picky as yours. Mine will eat anything I cook and never complain, even when it seems to me like it’s the same old thing once again! I’m glad you are encouraged by my Recipe Friday. 🙂 And I hope your family all like this salad. Have a great time house sitting. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Jessica, Thanks for stopping by and commenting! I agree that jicama is underappreciated. I like to just eat it raw with no dressing as part of my lunch, usually with a few slices of cucumber or red pepper. But when it’s for dinner I put it in a salad with dressing so my hubby will eat it. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6798. Thanks Linda 🙂
    Yum! And thanks for including the subs too. Nice!
    I’m filing this one!!
    Blessings,
    ann
    P.S. there goes that dressing again 🙂

    Reply

    • Ann, It just happened to be the dressing I had in the fridge! You could use whatever dressing you like and I’m sure it would be delicious. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Susie, Thanks for stopping by! Praise be to God that His people are able to find each other here in the blogosphere. Enjoyed your site earlier today. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6800. Linda, I so look forward to your thankful Thursday poems. 🙂 Thank you and thanks to Ann for suggesting it!
    This one especially touched me and one of the reasons why is what it stemmed from, your personal worship time each morning. That really grabbed me and also challenges me to return to writing/journaling , creating my own worship songs and poems. . .just for Him.
    God bless you, Linda, and all the ways you bless us!

    Reply

    • Deb, I am thankful that Ann suggested this theme, too! I think of that every week when I sit down to write my poem. And I’m also thankful that you have inspired me to write poetry, which I never thought I could really do. Then on top of that I am always blessed by your comments and knowing that you look forward to Thankful Thursday! It’s just one blessing after another from the Lord. You really should get back to writing worship songs and poems – I’ll bet they would be awesome because they would always focus on and point us to Jesus. 🙂 You do already write the simple worship poems, but I’ll bet you could write some longer ones if you wanted to. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6801. Thanks Linda 🙂
    I like much!
    Here’s the Gaither Band … The Alpha & Omega. Will share Israel Houghton’s later 🙂
    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, What an awesome song to add! Thank you very much for that. I love the Gaithers. I saw them in concert with my in-laws once. It was wonderful. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Most welcome Linda
        Here`s a bonus 😉 This was on the list yesterday as well:
        Israel Houghton – Alpha & Omega

  6802. Hi Linda! It is so nice to meet you. Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog and leaving your comments. I really appreciate it. I was blessed to read your post on Third Day. I’m so glad everything turned out greater than you imagined. God is good like that! Your post brought back memories of when my daughter and I went to see Third Day several years ago. They were wonderful. We left feeling truly blessed. I put you on my Blogroll so I can keep up with you. 🙂 Blessings!

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting, and for putting me on your blogrolll! It’s always good to meet another follower of Christ and fan of Third Day. God is good, indeed, and brought me such blessing through this concert and they just keep coming. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6803. Thanks Linda,

    “The next time you are in worship, remember to keep your focus on Jesus that He might be exalted. There is no right or wrong way to conduct worship services. As long as Jesus is lifted up and the glory of God revealed, as long as the focus of worship is on the Lord and not on the congregation, then the Lord is pleased. Remember, Michal was unhappy when David danced to the Lord in his tunic, but the Lord was pleased. David was called a man after God’s own heart, and Michal was left barren. (2 Samuel 6:16-2)”
    Very well said!!

    It’s truly all about Him and how our hearts line up to what He wants. We may not like what we see or hear but worship is for His glory, not ours.

    This is beautiful …thanks for sharing.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, The Lord is our whole reason for worship. It really isn’t about us, but we try to make it be about us so often. I used to be one of those who complained about certain aspects of the services. (I’ve been known to say that Lutheran hymns are like dirges!) But when I focus on Him, my complaining decreases and I even come to enjoy the old hymns because they are a beautiful song to my Jesus. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6804. Wow, oh Wow. You just sat down and this came to you? Thank you for your obedience and your worship of Him through this blog, your posts and your poems. Your love for Him does not grow cold and it ignites us as well!
    God bless you as you lead us to worship Him in Spirit and in Truth!

    Reply

    • Deb, Actually the idea and structure of the poem (an acrostic of the words critical spirit, Holy Spirit) came to me while I was kneeling in prayer. The actual words took a bit longer to develop. But I have to give all the glory to Him for even being able to write poetry. And I thank you for being His instrument to wake up the poet in me. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6805. You said, “They may not join our particular congregation, but that should not necessarily be our aim. Our aim should be to draw people to Jesus Himself.”

    I couldn’t agree more. However, this is one of those areas small churches struggle with. In small communities, where the population is not that big, there is a tendency to be jealous of other congregations, especially different denominations. The challenge is to take the focus off of ourselves, however needy, and place the focus on glorifying our Savior. He will take care of the rest as best meets the needs of the ones we are trying to reach. We just need to be obedient and trust Him.

    Reply

    • That is true. I don’t live in a small geographical area – though there are a lot of people with no intention of going to church where I live. My own church is not that small, yet there is a tendency to compare ourselves to the really big churches in town and try to do what they do to increase the number of people in the pews on Sunday, even if what they do is not point to Jesus. His church really isn’t about programs, it’s about Jesus and Him crucified. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6806. Such a beautiful Tuesday Three! 🙂 You had me smiling right off the bat , when you said you couldn’t leave it at just one Monday post. I’m so glad you couldn’t do that because we received the blessing of this one! So glad you not only got to go, but had sun too, and were able to video one of the songs you love, and then had a dear friend with you who was blessed so much too! It doesn’t get much better than that! 🙂
    God bless you and thank you for spreading the joy!

    Reply

  6807. Thanks, Linda

    Now you really have me looking forward!!

    ‘There’s nothing I can do on my own to find forgiveness”
    The reality of this hit me today as I read an OT account of sacrifices and offerings. I’m not rich but I have sinned a lot… how on earth would I afford to pay for my transgressions? So thankful for the blood of Jesus!

    Glad you had a great time. (This reminds me of your family fellowship post. Isn’t it grand to celebrate Him with others?)

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I hope they head up your way to Canada sometime soon so you can go see them! I have another video I took of them singing “I Want to Sing a Song” and in the middle is Mac saying a prayer that God would be present and that He would bring healing (physical, emotional, and spiritual) and blessings to everyone present. It is just so precious to hear prayers from the stage at a concert. And it was just so wonderful to share this with my friend who, if I hadn’t invited her, would not have gotten to go. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6809. Linda’
    I know how much you love going today, and I was actually thinking about you being at the concert, because you kinda counted it down on FaceBook. It is awesome when God places something on your heart, as He did at the concert. Thanks a ton for your writing about this, we all need to serve Jesus through loving others, the downtrodden and needy. I am so glad you had a chance to go see your band again. God Bless-Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, Part of me thinks I might be too old for rock concerts, when it’s my favorite Christian band I just listen to the other part that says you’re never too old. And I am always blessed in one way or another when I go to concerts, so I think I’ll keep going as long as the Lord is willing and the bands keep praising Jesus. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6810. Linda . . .thank you so much! I love how you, too, support our Christian artists and so appreciate getting introduced to Trevor here. 🙂
    Seeing Jesus and recognizing Him is life changing. I should see Him everyday and be changed. The change I most experience is one of humility. A big dose of humility. 🙂
    God bless you, Linda, and all you see of Him today!
    p.s. I have to wait to play the song, so will be back! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, The Lord has really been working on my heart to see Him in the faces of those in need. The scripture from Matthew 25 has come before me in various ways over and over in the past few months. I pray that others would see His love in me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6811. Thank you, Linda

    Glad you had a chance to see Third Day. You’ve so connected me with them I’m looking forward to a live performance 🙂

    Don’t you just love it when He interrupts our plans? Glad you had this experience so you could share this with us. Praying we will not miss any of the opportunities to see Him in others.

    Blessings much,
    an n

    Reply

    • Ann, I’ve been listening to my new Trevor Morgan CD in the car, and I am so blessed to have found more Spirit filled music I just love. The whole event was terrific – especially getting to take along a friend who was available at the last minute. 🙂 But more on that later. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6812. Thanks, Linda!

    Where would we be without our refuge?

    Thanks for the reminder 🙂 Here’s Ron Kenoly with Rock Of Ages.
    “You’re a shelter In the time of trouble
    A refuge in the time of storm
    You’re a fortress in the time of struggle,
    A tower in the time of war.” !!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks for the video, but I couldn’t watch it. I clicked play and it said it is not available in my country. 🙁 Jesus is our Rock of Ages, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6815. Thanks Linda,

    Sounds like a pretty good read…there’s always so much to learn!

    Thanks again for sharing.
    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, My reading list is long. I have so many books on my bookshelf and so little time to get to them. I’m glad I made the time for this one because there was much Biblical wisdom in it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6816. I didn’t get it when Pastor B told us we should. ha! But, reading this, I know it’s important for us to know about what affects our brothers and sisters, and be able to bless and support them the way Jesus would want us to. This book could help me with that. Plus, He has brought someone to mind, and I can get the book for them as well! 🙂
    Thank you for this review and bringing it back to me. I let so much fall by the way side!
    God bless you as you reach out with His understanding and love!

    Reply

    • Deb, You could fit reading this book into even your busy schedule. 🙂 It is so worth the time and I have been so blessed by it in my own struggles with darkness. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6817. Thank You Linda for the reference. I have had a long struggle with anxiety/depression and often blamed my “unbelief”. I agree, many christians lack understanding, including those positioned to counsel the depressed.

    Reply

    • Nancy, I had no idea – that explains why I relate so well to you, I think. Ministering to those who struggle with depression is definitely a passion of mine, and I believe is one of the main reasons God led me to start this blog. I truly believe Jesus understands completely and will be our strength. I’m loaning this book to someone else, but if you want to read it I can loan it to you when she is done. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6818. Listening to music even in a shower? You love music! Music is another thing that I am thankful to God. He reintroduced me to it through Christian songs and I am loving it! 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, Well the iPod itself isn’t in the shower, it’s just in the bathroom, silly! 😉 It’s a great way to start the day with praising God in song – He can wash my soul while I wash my body. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6819. I can almost taste it Linda! I love onions, I love mango, I love peanuts — so there’s no reason that I won’t love this one! So many mangoes in here 😉

    Reply

    • Rea, It’s good to see you! I’ve been away a bit and so busy, I’ve missed seeing some of my blog friends here and at their blogs. I need to get over your way and see what you’ve been up to. 😉 Hope you can find the hot chutney dip where you are, but I bet you are creative enough to imrovise if you can’t. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Bryan, Saccharine is really not my style. 😉 I’ve actually written a few poems lately like this one, and I’m sure there will be more. Glad you liked it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6821. Thanks, Linda
    I can so see this happening! :-). ( I’m not so brave … not sure I could handle the heat 🙂 )

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It actually isn’t that hot because the cream cheese balances out the chutney sauce. Which is I think why you need hot chutney sauce. 😉 Be brave! You won’t be disappointed. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6822. You came back with a recipe! Why am I not surprised??? 🙂 Thank you sooo much. I’ll start looking for the sauce now. And there was something so sweet about that picture of your Aunt in place of the food . . .loved it!
    God bless you and thank you for sharing!!

    Reply

    • Deb, I think I might have to take this to the next party I go to! I’m afraid to make it at home because I’d eat too much! 😉 I also came back with some recipe ideas, but the first one I tried didn’t turn out quite like I expected so I need to experiment a bit. Maybe it will be next week’s recipe. Hope you enjoy this one. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6824. I was so affected by the song based on Isaiah 6 from Petra many years ago that I recorded a whole tape of the song played over and over. “Lead me in to the Holy of Holies . . . take the coals, cleanse my lips . . . Here I am”
    This takes me back to the very early hours of 29th May 1992 – one of the most precious times.
    Thank you for the memories and for the challenge.

    Reply

    • Angela, May 29th is my birthday! But my memories of my birthday in 1992 are not good ones as I was struggling with major depression at the time. I’m glad to hear something good happened that day. 🙂 I have not heard that song by Petra. I will have to see if I can find it on YouTube. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6826. This was just perfect, Linda! 🙂 What a beautiful thing to be thankful for. And I am too! I don’t get to listen as much as I used to, but music always makes my day better! Especially those songs that praise and worship Him!
    God bless you as you sing for Him today!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad I get to contribute to your music listening occasionally when I post a video on Monday (and sometimes other days)! I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t listen to my music. I suppose I would do a lot of humming in my head. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6827. Thanks, Linda

    ( Can I hit the like button more than once?!! 🙂 )

    Music means so much to me too 🙂 I can always find a song or a melody that speaks my heart. I love me some music and I too am thankful for that ministry / gift.

    You have blessed me greatly today. May He return to you a hundredfold.

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I’m glad you “liked” this poem so much. I can tell from your frequent video comments that music is important to you. It was kind of funny when I was in Austin, all sorts of things triggered song lyrics playing in my head. I can’t sing very well, but I enjoy music so much, especially when it is music that glorifies God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6828. Linda, there was something so precious about this that I’m in tears. This morning I was considering how the reality of who we are is in how He sees us. And now this . . .how we see Him. Thank you.
    God bless you and all the beauty He displays through you, for His glory.

    Reply

    • Deb, I do think, though, that the reality of who we are is in how He sees us, too. He sees us as His creation, as His children, and as sinners in need of redemption. When we accept Christ, He sees us as clothed in the righteousness of Christ and we are perfect as He is perfect. In that, He is glorified! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6829. Thanks, Linda

    Lovely post! Much food for thought. Very, very interesting.

    I’ve always heard Isaiah 6 preached from the position of the King’s disappearance giving Isaiah a direct view to God. Can’t recall hearing the passage explained from direction but I like it! Thanks much for sharing this with us.

    I like your interpretation of the Seraphs covering their faces. All we have and are is truly because of Him. May we never think of ourselves as being able to do anything without Him. Whatever we accomplish in life is all because of Him. Praying we will truly see Him for who He is.

    Blessings much,
    ann
    Eddie James – Because of You

    Reply

  6830. Beautiful Tuesday Three post Linda! 🙂 I liked how you explained what looked like arrogance in John whenever he called himself the disciple whom Jesus loved. Thank you for that! After all, he didn’t say Jesus didn’t love the others . . .he just acknowledged that Jesus loved him.
    God bless you and the love, faith and humility you have and display in Jesus!

    Reply

    • Deb, That is true, John didn’t say Jesus didn’t love the others. In fact, he said that “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son.” In his epistles, he assured all believers of God’s love. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6831. Thanks, Linda

    What a wonderful piece!! I like all three but the woman speaks much to me.

    ” One other thing I love about the story of this woman is that she is not named, and so her need can easily represent the need for spiritual healing that we all have.”
    I tag her with being brave too … she believed all she had to do was touch Him and she let nothing stop her from getting to Him. She took the risk of being shamed and scorned if that meant her infirmity wouldn’t follow her home.

    God bless you as you continue to share the ‘hard truths’.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I love your observation that she was brave! That is so true. In her condition she shouldn’t have even been out in the crowd, but she took the risk and the reward was great! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6832. Those really were great choices! I like what you said about the woman. There are also people who might have been named but had more obscure parts in the Bible…but they are still very important.

    One of those people was a man called Ananias (NOT the one who was struck dead and his wife, too). He is the man that the Lord used in the Story of the Apostle Paul’s conversion. We all can tell about Paul and his Damascus Road experience, but we seldom pause to see the beautiful experience Ananias had where he was commissioned and even made brave enough to extend mercy to a man he feared.

    Thank you so much for reminding me of the love, faith and and humility that the Lord treasures. 🙂

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, It was hard to pick three people for this post. I had to leave out so many of the Lord’s faithful, both well known and not so well known. Ananias is a great example of trusting in God and being obedient to His call even in the face of fear. Thanks for adding that! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6833. I haven’t heard this one by them yet . . .so thank you so much for gifting me with that! 🙂 Love it, love them, love you! I know you will have a great time worshiping God with the band and everyone there.
    Was the last time you saw them when you got to go backstage awhile?
    God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad this was such a blessing to you! The last time I saw Third Day was July of 2010, but I didn’t go backstage. I was in the front row for a before-concert Q&A session and for the concert. I opted not to spend the extra money to do the Q&A or meet and greet this time, but am looking forward to the show. And excited that my son wants to go with me! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6834. Thanks, Linda

    I’m learning new songs today!
    Nice lyrics. I’m tucking this phrase under my pillow today 😉
    “I trust in Jesus, my great Deliverer
    My strong Defender, blessed Redeemer”

    The thought hat He knows every single thought I’ve had and every single thing I’ve done wrong and yet He still loves me blows my mind. I am redeemed, bought with His blood. Washed. Made new!

    His coming back is certainly not far away ( third time I’ve made this comment in blogland so far this week!)

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, We all have to face judgment day, and it is so comforting to know that when I do I won’t have to be judged on my own record. All that will matter was that I trusted in Jesus! It blows my mind, too, that He knows everything and loves me anyway. What an awesome and merciful God we serve! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6836. Thanks for this Psalm, Linda

    Hope you had a chance to take lots of pictures! ( I’m the chronicler in my family – do forgive me 🙂 )

    I am celebrating in thanksgiving today too! We have much to be thankful for.

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I didn’t take many pictures, but my sister took over 800 pictures during the week. Unfortunately, when we tried to put them on my laptop last night before she headed home, my computer said her SD card needed to be formatted. It seems that the x-ray machine at the airport might have erased all her pictures. I’m praying she will be able to recover them, because there were some great family photos that she took. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6837. Linda,
    What a great poem, your daddy would be proud. I lost my mom a year after you lost your dad, and I miss her and think of her often too. In this world where often dad’s are not around, I am glad you had a good one. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  6838. How wonderful it would be to have such a father!
    While I had three “fathers” I never had a father . . . . . but praise God, 53 years ago, I was adopted by the Creator God into His own family and the Father I have now far, far, faaaaaaaaar exceeds the best any earthly father could be.

    What an amazing God!

    Reply

    • Angela, My dad wasn’t perfect, but he was pretty awesome for a dad. I’m so glad you were able to find our Heavenly Father in spite of your bad experiences with earthly fathers. I know there are people who have a hard time accepting God as Father because of their experiences with humans. Our God is amazing, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • >> “I know there are people who have a hard time accepting God as Father”
        Yes Linda, sadly way too many, but it was the idea of having a PERFECT Father that appealed to me so much, and over many years of counselling abused people I have found that this is the one thing that touches most of them. They run from the idea of an earthly father but fully embrace a PERFECT Father whose one concern is their well-being.

  6839. The closest of my sons is a 5 hour drive away, another is a 16 hour drive, while one would be a six DAY drive or an all day flight. My eldest now lives in New York but lived in London for 12 years. Another lived in England for 6 years.
    Distance separates but as you say, “in our hearts we are connected”

    Reply

    • Angela, For both my husband and I, our closest family is at least 3 hours away. But when we see them it’s like time just melts away. It was that way with my aunt this week, and I haven’t seen her in 35 years. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6840. Linda! ; ) I just LOVE this poem!

    In all its simplicity and sweetness, I feel like I’ve met your dad, and would have enjoyed knowing him. The one year anniversary of my own dad’s death is this Friday, and I wish I knew him that well.

    You and your dad were both very blessed. Hugs… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, My dad and I were very close, and he loved me even when I gave him grief. (Kind of like our Heavenly Father). I remember when I was in college my favorite thing to get in the mail was a note from my dad saying “Here’s some mad money for you. Don’t tell your mom.” And there would be a $20 bill in the envelope. But it was never the money that was important to me, but the fact that he thought about me and took the time to send it. I will keep you in my prayers for peace and comfort this coming Friday and you think about your own dad. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6841. Thanks for sharing your Dad with us, Linda…I can see why you miss him the way you do.

    What Deb said.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, thanks. 🙂 He was a good guy. I think of him often and have pictures of him in my office at work. Plus it’s like I see him every day when I look at my son, who is a lot like him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6842. This is such a beautiful heart felt tribute to your dad. Thank you so much for writing it and sharing it. It blessed me to know these things about him and to know how much you love him.
    God bless you and comfort you as you honor your dad yet today.

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad you enjoyed the poem. As I wrote it Sat. morning it became clear why nothing had come to me for a Sat. post before that (plus the fact that I was so busy all week!) Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6843. Wow Linda,
    Looks like a fun food frivolous family experience indeed! 😉 ( I’m borrowing your words!)

    I know quite a few people who’d happily accompany you on this trip 🙂
    Thanks for taking us along to enjoy the ride. I can almost taste that bisque!

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, The fun, food, and frivolity continues! We had Whataburgers today on our way back from San Antonio and stopped in Fredericksburg. I’m looking forward to going home, though. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6845. Thank you for sharing all these wonderful foods with us and giving us ideas too! It’s nice to get away and get some inspiration to cook again! 🙂 God bless you and yours!

    Reply

  6846. Thanks, Linda 🙂

    Sounds like you’re having a blast! 🙂

    “…Love will forever bind us…”
    I like the simple beauty of this poem but the line above makes me tingly. 🙂 Very warm … reminds me of Christmas.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6848. Fun food and frivolity – when these are present in a family there will be happy memories.
    I believe the kitchen table should be the place of the happiest family memories – a time when each member can share highlights and lowlights of the day and bond in their love for one another. Regrettably the “kitchen table” family time is a thing of the past in many homes today.

    Reply

  6850. Kinda like having a perfect attendance record at Sunday School! We would love you anyway… : )

    Frivolity… a word that sounds like its meaning! I have a brother who loves to exchange silly emails and childhood memories.

    Kudos to you sister for a winning three. And try to stay cool. Ha!

    Reply

    • Linda, You are so sweet! I know you all, and God, would be okay with me missing a day. It is truly an obsession, which may not be a good thing, but I wouldn’t be me without it. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6851. Wonderfully written. I have always thought of the Old Testament as Christ concealed, and the New Testament as Christ revealed… you just revealed another portion from that which was concealed. May you be blessed.

    Reply

    • Thank you for stopping by and leaving such a nice and thoughtful comment. I agree that Christ is concealed in the Old Testament but only for those who refuse to see. If you just ask God to reveal Him, you will see Him throughout. So glad I could help you see Christ in this part of scripture. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6852. So thankful that you are getting some family time in! Love these Tuesday three! 🙂 God bless you with fun, food and frivolity this week!

    Reply

    • Deb, It has been go, go, go! Met some more family I hadn’t ever met before yesterday and we had a great time. It was a long drive to Houston, but we had fun talking and joking on the ride, and got to go to dinner with them. I might need a vacation after my vacation, though, to recoup! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6853. Thank you, Linda

    Family is such a blessed thing to have! Happy you’re having a blast and thanks for taking the time to share your family time with us. Make beautiful memories and take lots of pictures! 🙂

    “The family that can experience fun, food, and frivolity together will remain strong and connected. Even when time and miles separate you, the connection will remain.”
    May God continue to bless you and yours and your relationships with those around you. I am fortunate to have family by birth and family He has added to me. I am most grateful.

    Blessings to you for reminding me of the importance of Family – Fun, Food, Frivolity (and Fellowship).

    Thankful.
    ann

    Reply

  6854. I hear Jeremy Camp songs played all the time, so what a blessing to hear this wonderful song from his wife, Adie! Thank you for adding her to our list now too! God bless you and overwhelm you with His love!

    Reply

    • Linda, Even though I scheduled this post before I left Portland for Austin, I’ve had this song playing in my head off and on all week. I’m glad you liked it! It kind of makes me want to dance and kneel in prayer all at the same time. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6856. Thanks Linda
    I’ve never heard this before. Thanks for sharing!

    “Overwhelm me with your love
    Set my mind on things above
    Show me what you have in store
    For my home beyond this world”

    My heart’s cry….

    Thanks again, Linda.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, This is a beautiful song, isn’t it? I first heard Adie when she opened for her husband Jeremy Camp at Rolling Hills Church in Oregon. Her voice is just so beautiful – I had to get her CD. Glad you enjoyed this one. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6858. The fact that God is just is ignored by many these days. We hear so much of the love of God (and rightly so) but the love of God does not erase the justice of God.

    If we do not yield to the LOVE of God
    And be changed by the GRACE of God
    There will be no escape from the JUSTICE of God.

    17 I will thank the Lord because he is just;
    I will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High.

    Reply

    • So very true. People want human justice for those who do terrible things worse than they would do, but they don’t want to admit that God’s justice is staring them in the face. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6859. Thanks, Linda

    “With the shield of faith
    Darkness is thwarted
    Unless I grow careless
    Even for a moment”

    Reminds me of the scripture that admonishes us “to be sober and vigilant” The enemy is moving about like a lion. Must be careful to keep our eyes on Him and to walk in His steps.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6860. Thanks, Linda

    “Hope
    Overcomes and
    Peace
    Emerges”
    I like this stanza very much!!

    I like to think Hope is the theme of my life… thanks for sharing.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6861. Thank you, Linda

    Great recipe that I found late!! I had a whole bunch of tiny feet running through the house this week. They’re all gone now and my feet are tired as ever.:-)

    Would have been great to find this while they were here.I have not had Kool Aid in moons. This would have been so much easier than what I did but I didn’t get much computer time while they were here.

    I’ll know what to do next time 🙂

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

  6862. Thanks, Linda

    “if I have betrayed a friend
    or plundered my enemy without cause,
    5 then let my enemies capture me.
    Let them trample me into the ground
    and drag my honor in the dust.”

    This is some heavy stuff! We can’t always have every thing smooth sailing but it’s great to know God is still in control, regardless of what we face.

    “I will thank the Lord because he is just;
    I will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High.”
    What Deb said about how it ends 🙂 I join in praising Him!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6863. Thank you for our Psalm Sunday! I love how after all it goes through, it ends with thanking and praising God. 🙂
    God bless you and your time in TX!

    Reply

  6864. Thank you Linda for thinking about this and addressing it with a doable solution . . .giving us a way to help.
    Jar of Clay did a benefit concert recently for something my church (that I don’t get to attend. . .ha!) has started doing, called BackPack Peoria. You get into the concert for $15 and the money goes to buy backpacks full of supplies for underprivileged children here. How compassionate of them to do the Blood:Water Mission!
    God bless you and your heart for Him and others.

    Reply

  6868. Linda, I’m praying that this helps many who are going through a crushing and painful experience, suffering hurt at someone else’s hands. The dream, the message of forgiveness, and how He worked that out in your life is huge. What an amazing God and testimony He has given you. God bless you and thank you for sharing! 🙂

    Reply

  6869. This describes the spiritual battles so well, that we go through! God bless you, Linda, and how you use whatever He gives you for His glory!

    Reply

  6870. This is such a beautiful story, Linda. I love all that He leads you to write and your faithfulness to do it! 🙂 God bless you, your writing for Him and your next trip!

    Reply

  6871. Seems like I’m “making pies” all day long. But it is so true that when we ask God for patience, He grants it. (Why would God not want us to be patient… especially with a spouse?)

    Paul was content with alot less… a good reminder for us all.

    Hope you’re having a blast with all your summer activities. God bless you, Linda. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I’ve always said that when we pray for patience, God gives us situations that require us to be patient. But patience is a fruit of the Spirit and it comes when we need it most. Tomorrow morning I’m headed off to Austin with my sister, but I’ll be back home in a week. Should be a fun trip. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6872. Hi Linda,
    Sounds Delicious, I grew up drinking the stuff too. You did forget that it must be poured into a clear crystal pitcher with a smiling face on the side. We actually had one of those when I was growing up.
    I am sugarless these days, but it still sounds great. I am actually having to resubscribe, for some reason, I no longer get emails when you post. Have a great weekend, God Bless-Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, My son has been making it in a Belle Plaine, MN Bar-B-Q Days pitcher, and we always used a plastic pitcher when I was a kid. No fancy glass one with the smiley face for us. 🙂
      I noticed I lost a subscriber the other day, but didn’t realize it was you. But I did have to approve a pending comment of yours, which I thought was odd. Anyway, you have a great weekend, too. On Sunday I’ll be down in Texas in the kind of heat you’ve been having. It will be a nice change for me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6873. There are so many cool flavors of Kool-Aid too! 🙂 I love this and it is perfect for my last 2 weeks of not being able to cook much either.
    God bless you and keep you!

    Reply

  6874. LOL, we don’t get KoolAid in the UK, but some friends kindly sent me some. I don’t drink it – the unsweetened variety is perfect for dyeing silk and wool.

    Have a great weekend.

    Reply

    • Sounds like a good use of Kool-Aid to me! I don’t drink it any more either, except when my son is persistent that I try some that he has just made. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6877. I loved hearing about Holly! Thank you for sharing her with us! And you know what? She sounds a lot like you! 🙂
    God bless you and Holly and your friendship today!

    Reply

  6878. Linda,
    Wow, what a great story about such a woman of faith. I was greatly encouraged just to hear. I think it is great that God sees fit to bless us with friendships like that that we may be mentored in addition to having a selfless friend. It sounds like Holly exemplifies the phrase “Christ Follower” in a true and genuine way. Thanks for telling us about her!
    God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  6879. It is people like Holly who really show what it means to walk as Jesus walked among others on this earth. Enjoyed this post. I have not had much time to write. I have a couple of things on board to publish and a few thoughts going through my head. We are on the home stretch of our son getting married. He is to wed this Saturday and the wedding is out of town. Needless to say, Jim and I look like a moving company trying to pack all we need to take to host the rehearsal dinner!! After Drew’s wedding, I will begin to help with my niece’s wedding who weds on 9-10-11 at 12:00!! Whew! what a summer but prayers from prayer warriors such as you and my faith is what keeps me going.
    Blessings to you and your writings!!
    April Hawkins

    Reply

  6880. Thanks, Linda

    Thanks for poking the thinking about the things we don’t relish thinking about.

    “So when the iPad 3 does come out, if you are thinking of getting one, will you make the choice to be the shelter for someone in need instead? Will you consider going to the Blood:Water Mission website and donating what you would otherwise spend on that iPad 3 so that the poverty-stricken of Africa can have clean water and clean blood?”
    Your post sounds like our Pastor’s message on Sunday! He spoke about the greed- driven nature of society and how we are never satisfied. We may own a 2011 car but we feel the need to upgrade as soon as the 2012 model comes in. While we’re doing all this, we ignore the plight of those who can’t even afford last week’s bread. 🙁

    Praying we’ll respond as He would.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, We are so blessed with so much, and yet we do seem to always want more. Cars is not the place I struggle with that – still driving a 2001 escape with a passenger door that won’t open from the outside – but there are other areas where I spend when I could be helping someone who has very little. I echo your prayer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6881. Thanks, Linda 🙂

    What a blessing we have! The circumstances may seem overwhelming but there is comfort in knowing He will deliver. Thanks for the reminder.

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

  6882. Thank you, Linda,

    So thankful for His deliverance in your circumstances. How great is our God indeed! So thankful for His truth and Light and His anointing that “breaks every yoke!” May He shower you with even more peace as You continue offer Him praise for taking you through this.

    In my own walk, there are few things I find as freeing and rewarding as releasing me to Him. There is freedom in laying my issues at His feet yet the freedom somehow binds me closer to Him. The more we walk with burdens the less we become aware of the need to let them go. The extra weight becomes such a part of our norm we sometimes forget we have them! Still, He says “Cast your burden” and “Come to me and I will give you rest…”

    At this point in my life, I am truly thankful for the healing I could never afford to pay for.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for the wonderful prayer. Peace seems to be lacking a bit this week, and so I do appreciate your prayer that I be showered with more. Seems I keep learning the same lesson over and over. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6883. Once again it seems we are on the same thought pattern. I posted a blog on de-activating the bomb of harboured feelings last week.

    Typical of many abused people, I didn’t harbour unforgiveness because I thought it was all my fault: that I deserved the wrongs I received, because I was so evil. However, in later years I did tend to blame my “hang-ups” on him. I have no doubt they were caused by his actions, but I didn’t acknowledge that I was responsible for my responses – and that all-powerful help was available to assist me.

    Praise God for the wonderful release when He graciously led me through all that had happened and gave me victory!

    Indeed He is an amazing God!

    Reply

    • Angela, I certainly went through the time when I thought it was all my fault, but by the time I nosedived into major depression I’d had enough counseling to have dealt with that aspect. I’m so thankful that our Amazing Jesus knows what we’ve been through and has shown us the way to healing and victory! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6884. As you know, my passion is children’s ministry. I don’t know who wrote this poem, but it is constantly before me. Although it long, I thought you might like to read it.

    THE CALLING
    I am called to minister to the largest mission field in the world. I am called to minister to children.

    My calling is sure, my challenge is big,
    my vision is clear, my desire is strong,
    my influence is eternal, my impact is critical,
    my values are solid, my faith is tough,
    my mission is urgent, my purpose is unmistakable,
    my direction is forward, my heart is genuine,
    my strength is supernatural, my reward is promised
    and my God is real.

    In a world of cynicism, I offer hope.
    In a world of confusion, I offer truth.
    In a world of immorality, I offer values.
    In a world of neglect, I offer safety.
    In a world of ridicule, I offer affirmation.
    In a world of bitterness, I offer forgiveness.
    In a world of sin, I offer salvation.
    In a world of hate, I offer God’s love.

    I refuse to be dismayed, disengaged,
    disgruntled, discouraged or distracted.
    I will not look back,
    stand back, fall back or sit back.
    I do not need applause, flattery,
    adulation, prestige, stature or veneration.
    I do not have time
    for business as usual, mediocre standards,
    small thinking, outdated methods,
    normal expectations, average results,
    ordinary ideas, petty disputes or low vision.
    I will not give up,
    bail out, lie down, turn over, quit or surrender.

    I will pray when things look bad.
    I will pray when things are good.
    I will move forward when others stand still.
    I will trust God when obstacles arise.
    I will work when the task is overwhelming.
    I will get up when I fall down.

    My calling is to reach boys and girls for God.
    This is too serious to be taken lightly,
    too urgent to be postponed, too vital to be ignored,
    too relevant to be overlooked,
    too significant to be trivialised,
    too eternal to be fleeting
    and too passionate to be quenched.

    I know my mission and my challenge.
    I know my limitations and my weaknesses.
    I know my fears and my problems.
    And I know my God.

    Let others get the praise.
    Let the Church get the blessing.
    Let God get the glory.

    I am called to minister to children.
    This is who I am. This is what I do.

    Reply

    • Angela, Thanks for sharing this poem. It is a good one. I love this one line: “Let God get the glory.” It all belongs to Him anyway! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6885. Beautiful post. Thank you for sharing. The wonderful thing is that when we want to forgive He is there to help us do it. He is also there with the reward – the sweetness of His presence that is so precious.

    The pain, the awful, sickening pain that we carry around from day to day isn’t caused by the initial hurt – it’s caused by the holding on! Let it go and forgive. Amen.

    Reply

  6886. Thank you for the poem and for sharing about the 6 stanzas representing 6 years. 🙂 I love how you are indeed using that time for His good now, reaching out to people and helping them to Him!
    God bless you and your love of Jesus!

    Reply

    • Deb, I seem to have really caught the “poetry bug” and can’t seem to stop. So glad these poems are a blessing to someone. It does feel good to have something good come from my years of depression. I just wrote another one yesterday that I’m posting for next Wednesday. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6887. Only you would bring us dueling chickens! 🙂 The beer can cooker is cool. Did it come with the Traeger? They do both look great!
    p.s. I did the pork tenderloin, and while my husband didn’t want to eat that night, unfortunately, it WAS delicious. 🙂 Thank you!

    Reply

    • Deb, The beer can cooker didn’t come with the Traeger, but we bought it at the hardware store where we get Traeger wood pellets. I still think I like just doing breast or drumsticks better. I find the job of getting all the meat off the bone of a whole chicken after dinner is over to be quite tedious. But it is juicier when you do a whole bird.

      Glad the tenderloin worked out for you. As for your hubby, the phrase “a fool and his tenderloin are soon parted” comes to mind. 😉 I can’t imagine my husband ever not wanting to eat! I would probably call 911 thinking something was dreadfully wrong if he ever did. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6888. Thanks Linda

    Looks like a tie from this end 🙂

    I have to sub Traeger and Traeger rub so I’m thinking oven… Will have to try both to have a fair assessment. 😉

    Blessing much
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, We had a whole chicken on the Traeger again last night and did a combination of these two recipes, with just using the beer and salsa mixture to baste it while cooking. Turned out so juicy and wonerful! If you are interested, I can look at what the spice mixture is in the Traeger sweet rub and let you know, though I’m sure part of the ingredients will be “and other ingredients” or “and other spices.” 😉 Enjoy! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6889. Beautiful and sweet poem…

    I hope everyone who ever shows up in your stats reads this, because that message is long gone for so many people. It’s an outrage! Imagine how God must feel…

    Does your son check your blog? I hope so… what a treasure he must be. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, Thanks. It is sad how so many have forgotten how important children are. I’d love to say my son reads my blog and so will see this, but that would be a lie. Reading is not his strong suit. I do sometimes point out to him things I’ve written about him, but he’s more of a visual person. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6890. This poem has a special place in my heart. 🙂 Thank you Linda! I love my children and they have helped me so much. And I love other people’s children too! Kids are great!
    God bless you and your son/family, Linda.

    Reply

  6891. Thank you, Linda

    Children are indeed a heritage of the Lord 🙂 (be they good, obedient or otherwise)

    “3Children are a blessing and a gift from the LORD.
    4Having a lot of children to take care of you in your old age is like a warrior with a lot of arrows.
    5The more you have, the better off you will be, because they will protect you when your enemies attack with arguments.”
    Psalm 127: 3-5 CEV

    Blessings,
    ann

    Thank God for Kids – the Oakridge Boys

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks for the great video! What a perfect song to go with this post. As for the Psalm quote, that one always makes me a little sad because I only have one child and wish I had more, but that was not to be. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6892. I well relate to this – the darkness, the despair, the horror – “resigned to hell on earth” with no hope of escape.
    Thankfully, I also relate to the then unknown Saviour reaching out to me and giving me no peace until I responded – and then an abundance of peace.
    Thankfully again I relate to the last two verses. What a privilege to be His ambassadors in the world today!

    Thank you Linda.
    Angela

    Reply

      • 2 Corinthians 5:20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ.

        This is quite a challenge for me, because an ambassador fully represents his nation and the nation is judged by its ambassadors. Therefore, people will judge Christ by what they see in me – a great privilege but an even greater responsibility.
        Angela

  6893. There would be more than 3 people, but this one gave me a firm footing on an adventure which has lasted for more than 50 years – and is still exciting.

    I was about to become a nun when I became a Christian and was daily, after work, challenged by priests about my new faith. The pastor of the Church where I was converted (affectionately called PK) asked me if I was willing to put God to the test. He encouraged me to read my Bible at lunch time and mark the place God had directed me to read. EVERY day, the priests were silenced because God had directed me to the passage which answered their challenge – and they had no answer and soon gave up.

    PK gave me a love of the Word. He never answered any of my many questions but gave me some Scriptures to read. He showed me that God’s Word had the answer for everything and could be trusted without exception.

    My love of the Word and my confidence in its truth have never diminished. Thanks PK and thank you Lord, for putting him in the right place at the right time.

    Reply

    • Angela, Our God is awesome and always provides the people and answers we need, just when we need them. Praise God for PK and for His Word! For me, there were definitely more than three people in my life, but these three were extra special gifts from our Lord. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6895. Thanks much, Linda

    I like how you moved from the point of utter desperation to being lifted by Him to pointing others to Him. Sometimes we forget what the pit is like since we no longer have to live in it 🙂 .

    Your post made me think of an old song – Remind Me – A part of the song says “roll back the curtains of memory now and then. Show me where You brought me from and where I could have been”… A gentle reminder that it is His grace that sustains me and not anything I did to ‘earn’ it.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks. I kind of felt like the poem was unbalanced because there weren’t more stanzas after He rescued me. But the six stanzas of darkness represent the six years I was in such darkness that I thought I would never escape. As for the years since He showed me the way out, I’ve lost count and I decided the focus needed to be not on how long it’s been but on what I can do to show others the way out. Thanks for the song. I will listen to it later when I have time and better speakers. I like the lyrics that you quoted. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6896. Thanks Linda

    This is a wonderful post! How amazing is it that God sent these people at the right time?

    Bless His name! Thanks so much for sharing

    Thankful,
    ann

    PS Now I see what you meant yesterday. Loving the way He syncs 🙂

    Reply

    • Ann, Thinking about this definitely makes me aware of how He is wanting to send me into the lives of others to be part of their faith journey, too. I’ll bet if Clarissa thought about it now she would never expect what a big impact she made so many years ago simply by inviting me. We may not always see the final fruit of our encouragement, but God knows what we can accomplish with a little kindness. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6897. I love this. It has inspired me to sit and consider those who were most influencial in my life, and in my coming to know Christ. Thank you for posting this! I also notice that “invited” is a theme in your post, which is a wonderful reminder of the power of “invitation”.

    Reply

    • Karla, Hoooray! I hope you’ll post about those who influenced you. I would love to read about them. I’m glad you picked up on the “invited” theme. I was in part, I think, reminding myself that inviting others is an important part of ministering to their needs and that I shouldn’t let fear that they won’t accept or that they won’t immediately come to faith deter me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6898. After rising this morning, reading God’s word before the usual distractions came forth, brought me to where I left off in this reading through work. Completing a few chapters led me to Zech. 13-9. Deciding to study out “refined as silver; try them as gold,” I goggled my way to this truth article. Enjoyed! God is AWSOME

    Reply

  6899. Thank you for sharing this Linda.
    Tragedy – very REAL tragedy. I think you see more of it in America than we do here in Australia, but we are catching up very quickly.

    You mention that years ago most people went to Church and young people grew up in Church activities. I think that was less so here, but at least almost everyone believed in God – or more correctly, believed that there was a God and there was a heaven and a hell. That thought – or the mere possibility of it being true – prevented a lot of young people from committing suicide. I know it stopped me. While I mistakenly thought hell couldn’t be worse than life here, it many times stopped me from putting my plans into action.

    These days, it seems most people don’t believe in God or if they do, it is their own variety of god and while there may be a heaven there certainly isn’t a hell. I believe this at least partly accounts for the increase in suicides. A favourite tombstone inscription here is “gone fishing” which shows how many think of eternity.

    I guess you could say that children’s and youth ministry has been my passion for many decades and I have been heavily involved both actively and in organisation and in conducting training seminars for leaders. I believe children’s ministry is the greatest need in the Church today. Teenagers are the most vulnerable people in society.

    And yet, when phoning pastors nationwide about a childrens/youth ministry in their Church, I have been appalled at a common response: “We are not interested in children or youth. We focus on adults.”

    Sorry for such a long response. As I said, this is my passion.
    Angela

    Reply

    • Angela, The response you have received from pastors is appalling and misguided. What good is it to focus on just adults when many people will be so lost by then they will never find Christ. We have to instill values and faith in our children. “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6. No need to apologize for your long response. It was all good information and commentary. I appreciate your passion for our youth. I am thankful that I belong to a church that considers youth to be a priority. I we are in the process of calling a pastor who has six children of his own and is passionate about youth ministry as well. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6900. When our first words in the morning are “Good morning, Lord” the day is off to a good start. Even while attending to the “must-do’s” of early morning, our thoughts can be centered on what the Lord is going to achieve through us that day – and “waiting in expectation”
    I am often amazed at how the Lord “stretches” our time through the day when we give a special time to Him FIRST.
    Thanks for the reminder Linda.
    Angela

    Reply

  6901. Thank you for sharing, Linda

    This is a very relevant and timely post. The truth needs to get out there one way of the other. Thank you for being the vehicle. I will forward this link to the young ones.

    “Maybe this kid was reaching out for love
    Or maybe for a moment he forgot who he was
    Or maybe this kid just wanted to be hugged …”
    The lyrics are a real eye opener … We have forgotten our roots. Time to return to our first love… It’s a reality we have to deal with and the more we know the better we are able to reach the lost ones and also help to coach those who are trying to walk the straight and narrow.

    I like your list of challenges … I will be praying and I will be passing this to our youth pastors as well.

    Blessings much,
    ann

    SIDEBAR: I read your post, hit the like button and then went to gather my thoughts. When I came back and saw your comment, my heart died and danced in the same moment! It died because there are some who choose to turn to blind eye to the truth but it danced because whoever clicked the low rating button had to have read the post – that means a seed has been planted whether or not they care to admit it!!

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for sharing this with others. This was a hard post to write, but I was compelled to write it. It is an important subject. We need to reach out to the lost. We can’t just remain in our “holy huddles” as an old friend once called it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6902. Excellent, and difficult post. It overwhelms me at times when I see what is happening with the next generation. But you are right…there are those who are living for Christ. I am so very thankful that my kids are pursuing Jesus.

    Reply

    • Karla, I am thankful that my son is, too. When he was younger my husband and I talked about sending him to a private Christian school (we have an excellent on in our area), but decided that it was more important for him to learn how to hold onto his faith when not all around him agreed. Over the years I have come to know that this was the right decision as he has cared about and in his own way ministered to more than one kid who claimed to be an atheist. My prayer is not only that they do not influence him, but that he be a positive influence in their lives. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6903. I noticed this morning that I got a 1-star (Very Poor) rating on this post from someone who followed the “Atheism” tag to get here. You might think this would upset me, but it doesn’t. It just reminded me of this passage from John 15:18-21 –

    “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? ‘A slave is not greater than the master.’ Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to me, they would listen to you. They will do all this to you because of me, for they have rejected the One who sent me.”

    I’m okay with being hated, or having my writing hated, because I write boldly about Christ. Peace, Linda

    Reply

    • Linda. . .the post made me cry. Just thinking about how often we think our kids are okay . . they are old enough to take care of themselves, be on their own some. It’s like we can’t wait to not be responsible for them any more. To get them out of our hair. It’s not easy to raise children . . .I know, and we can’t always know what they are thinking, how they are really feeling. Praying and doing as many of your challenges as I can. God bless you and your boldness for Christ!

      Reply

      • Deb, You are exactly right that so many parents just can’t wait to get their kids out of the house and out of their hair. It makes you wonder why they had kids in the first place. It isn’t easy raising kids, even when you only have one like I do. I know you are well acquainted with how challenging having kids can be since have one who will always be somewhat childlike and need you to take care of her. Thank you for keeping our youth in your prayers. They need it! Peace, Linda

  6904. Thank you, Linda

    Here you have showed the simple steps (that we so often ignore)… I try to find Him first thing in the morning but sometimes I am in such a hurry I find I miss the waiting in expectation part. You can be sure though, that I will find Him at the first sign of trouble!

    Thanks for the reminder of the proper order of things. 🙂

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

  6905. Linda,
    Life goes best (always) when I start the day and end the day in prayer. When I get preoccupied and inconsistant, it shows. Thanks for the great scripture reminder.
    God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, You are so welcome! It was a good reminder for me, too. 🙂 Inconsistency is definitely something I struggle with as well, so I know exactly what you mean. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6906. “The heavens declare the glory of God ; and the firmament shows His handiwork” Psalm 19:1 [also Romans 1:19-20]

    Just like in the story, so many people “see” the wonder of creation but hardly consider it, while a few glory in the Creator and desire to know Him.

    Thanks.
    Angela

    Reply

    • Angela, Thank you for adding the perfect scripture to go with this story. Our Creator is truly awesome and I am so glad that I do know Him! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6907. I love the psalms, Linda, and this is a wonderful idea! It is here, more than any other book in the bible, that I have learned of the character of God. He hears, and we can wait in expectation for Him to respond!

    Blessings,
    Karla

    Reply

    • Karla, That is true, that much of the character of God, as well as the relationship He desires to have with us, is revealed in the Psalms. I am so glad I started Psalm Sunday this year because it means every week I look closely at another Psalm without fail. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6909. Thank you so much for this poem Linda. God wants me to read this today. While I am comforted that He loves me so much to erase my sins, I am reminded that I use eraser as well for the hurts inflicted to me. That I do not write the hurts using indelible pens or that I do not write them at all, not in my mind or heart. Eraser, please 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, What a great idea! To erase the hurts inflicted on us sounds very Christ-like and just what God would want us to do. And I’ll bet He has an eraser big enough that He would let us use. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6911. Oh I love this story! 🙂 And the comments! 🙂 Thank you for lifting me up with it all today! God bless you and all the ways He stretches you!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks! I’ll probably be posting my other two IDFK short stories here, too, over the next few weeks. I have two trips coming up and am going to be very busy! 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6913. Linda, Fiction is a knack you have and you are very good at it. This story is so cool, I remember it from IFTK, but not the rest. It is cool because it actually reminds me of a similar thing I experienced. I am a fan of art too, and I went to an art museum regularly. I was mesmerized by a painting, beautiful snow capped mountains, leading down to a beautiful lake with elk wading out in the water. I was stunned because I knew this “exact” scene. Painting was called “trout lake” after the name of the lake for which it was painted. Six months prior, I had been south of Telluride Colorado at “trout lake”. But in the painting, there were no cabins, no buildings or any sign of man. it was painted I want to say in the early 1800’s by a man who did not know how to paint, but was so taken with the beauty of Colorado, that he travelled to Paris and trained at the famous art salons to learn to paint, this took several years. He then returned to trout lake and painted it perfectly, in amazing detail. anyway, I know there is no Godly reference in my response this time, but the story reminded me of that, and how I stood before that painting for so long. anyway, great write, God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, Thank you for the encouragement. Fiction is a stretch for me, but I’m learning that God is in the business of stretching us so that we have to rely on Him and not just do what comes easily to us. I like your story. I can see God in it because this painter saw the beauty of God and wanted to be able to paint it accurately. Painting was a stretch for him, but He did it to the glory of God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6916. I keep looking for something new to try . . .and I think this is it! 🙂 Do the veggies cook for as long as the tenderloin? Thank you and God bless you for helping me!!!! I need help!!!! ha!

    Reply

    • Deb, I put the veggies on about 5 minutes after the tenderloin, but only because I didn’t have them cut up sooner. They could have cooked a little longer and still been good. We are having this tenderloin again tonight (it was a 2 pack from Costco) but I’m making cauliflower in a closed packet. I’ve never tried cauliflower before. I’ll let you know how it turns out. If your hubby doesn’t LOVE this pork tenderloin, there’s no help for him. It is mouthwatering! (Okay, now I’m making myself hungry! 😉 ). Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I got a tenderloin tonight at the store , and a beautiful orange pepper , some bacon . . .:) We just have a little charcoal grill. Would you suggest it or the oven?

      • Deb, If I had to choose, I think I would do the oven. It’s easier to keep the temp at 350 and I’m not sure you could keep a charcoal grill hot enough for long enough. But I haven’t used a charcoal grill in many, many years. If you think you could keep it hot for 45 minutes or so, and it’s too hot outside, that would work too. If you do the oven for the tenderloin, I would suggest using my fajita tacos recipe for how to saute the pepper and onion. You’ll do great! I’ll say a prayer for it all to turn out awesome. Peace, Linda

  6917. Another blessing. Thanks Linda. Another reminder of what a great God we serve.

    We cannot help but see God’s glory all around us. Although this world has been corrupted by fallen mankind, it shouts out the glory of God. How magnificent His creation must have been before it was tainted!

    I believe the glory of God is most evident in the changed lives of His blood-bought children. We can marvel at His power in stilling the winds and the waves; at parting the sea; at all the wonders and miracles – but really, did the winds or the sea have any option but to obey Him? They were created by Him and HAD to obey.

    On the other hand, God gave us free will. WE are the ONLY part of His creation that has the power to refuse to obey. How incredible! ALL of creation MUST obey its Creator, and yet WE can refuse! What love He shows!

    What a wonderful revelation of His glory when He broke my stubborn will; when He gave me understanding of Himself and gave me the faith to believe!!! What a revelation of His glory when He COMPLETELY CHANGED me; when He made me a NEW person! What a revelation of His glory as He continues His work in my life, overcoming my desire to go my own way! He has a l-o-n-g way to go, and I know I will continue to struggle sometimes, but – *I KNOW* He continue His work and one day will present me faultless – NOT by anything in me, but ONLY because of His work. What a revelation of His glory that will be! And all heaven will praise Him!

    Reply

  6918. I presume your tenderloin is what we call a pork fillet – looks the same in the picture.
    I don’t have a BBQ but next time I do one in the oven I’ll wrap it in bacon – great idea. Thanks.

    Reply

    • Angela, Yes, I believe pork fillet and pork tenderloin are the same cut. They are the perfect size for my small family, with some lunch leftovers to boot when I make two. The bacon was a definite plus and I suspect this is how I will be making them from here on out! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6919. Linda,
    Thanks for featuring “a safe place”, I am touched. I appreciate you always for all you do, and for all the support you give in our little community. God Bless and keep you and your Family always!
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, You’re welcome! I was happy to include it and hopefully send some readers your way. Encouraging fellow believers (and future believers) is so important and I am blessed to be able to play my little part in doing so. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Thanks, Linda

        I woke up thinking about your dinner! Oh man… 🙂 Now I’m seriously thinking of heading to Costco this morning!

        Blessings,
        ann

    • Karen, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Yes, it did! And the bacon was pretty tasty, too. Though this recipe does take a perfectly healthy low fat tenderloin and make it less healthy, but you gotta live a little. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6923. The Holy Spirit shows me what I could never see for myself. I love that God reveals himself in the beauty of his creation. I wish everyone knew his joy and grace.

    Reply

  6924. Linda . . .this would be so great on a card! Or a poster! Or both!
    Thank you for staying with Your Lord, listening and writing what He gives you. It is really special to read poems like this and know it comes from a close relationship with Jesus.
    God bless you and your thankful heart and soul!

    Reply

    • Deb, How about in a book of poetry? I’ve been thinking a lot lately about putting together all my poetry here into a book and trying to find a publisher, or self-publish. And I am determined not to let someone discourage me from this idea like I did the book idea I was working on last year (which I am still thinking about, too). Now I just have ask the Lord for the extra time to make these things happen! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6926. Linda,

    This is simply wonderful … I read and read and read again . Each time I found something different.

    “Darkness, tears, and pain
    Replaced by my Savior’s
    Light, Love, and Truth…”

    So much in these three lines. Liking the concept of the Trinity too. 🙂 So thankful He took the broken pieces and made me new! Thanks for this beautiful piece that brought so much to bear!

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I love how you saw the Trinity in this poem. I didn’t even think of that with the “three” of everything! Thank you for making that connection. I’m so thankful He took the broken pieces of my life and made me new, too! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6927. I’m about to check out those blogs – thanks for the heads up.

    You are so right that God uses the way He has enabled victory in the lives of His children to challenge others. I have found that while non-Christians tend to challenge beliefs, they cannot challenge or deny personal experiences. They might try to excuse some with claims of “circumstances” but they are caused to think and in many cases admit to a supernatural work. A personal testimony is very often a starting point for effective witnessing.

    Reply

    • Angela, That is so true; people can’t argue with personal experience, although I’ve had people try. 😉 I just keep telling my story anyway, and let God do the rest. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6928. Emotion filled:
    despair strives to overtake . . . despair displaced . . . victory through Jesus.

    Thank you Linda for what will be used to bring hope and victory to many.
    I know God will use you to reach, help and bless many others with the gifts He has given you.

    Reply

    • Angela, I could know no greater blessing than to share my Jesus and His saving grace with others! He has been so wonderful to me. I love your summary of my poem: “despair strives to overtake . . . despair displaced . . . victory through Jesus.” Those words are a poem in themselves. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6929. Once again He leads you Linda, from yesterday to today, with a poem. I could relate so well, that it was hard not to cry. So thankful that now I can cry tears of repentance and tears of joy instead of those tears that knew no hope.
    God bless you, Linda, and the hope and truth of Jesus you bring to us!

    Reply

    • Deb, I know what you mean. There are different kinds of tears. I don’t mind the ones that come now because I know why they come, they have a purpose. But those tears in the darkness knew no hope. I would cry and never know why. I do hope that this poem brings hope and truth to others. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6931. I can sure relate to your featured posts (and thank you for featuring mine! : ) Seems that church is the last place anyone wants to take their past, their sins, their trials.

    Why is there no room for sinners among the pews? Maybe that’s why on days when I’m feeling depressed I just don’t go.

    Too bad, but a shameful reality. A touching post, Linda… thanks.

    Reply

    • Linda, I was happy to feature your post. It helped to make a point I hope takes hold. Jesus didn’t worry about people’s pasts. He said He came for sinners, not the righteous. And I suspect there are a lot more sinners in church than there are people who let on. I truly believe we miss an opportunity to share His saving power when we hide our past. I admit I am guilty of that myself quite often, but I’m trying to be more real about what He has done in my life and my heart. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, I think it applies perfectly! Thanks for sharing, it made me laugh. But I read it to my husband and his reply was, “That doesn’t sound right, God dropping you on your butt.” We’ll see. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I know what your hubby means! ha! But, it’s better than Him dropping us on our head. 😉 The part that doesn’t sound like God to us . . .the “I got tired, I got fed up” . . .He IS longsuffering, patient and full of lovingkindness. (But the children of Israel still got “dropped on their butts” in Babylon.)
        love, deb 🙂

  6933. Linda . . .awesome Tuesday Three! Thank you so much for connecting us and the dots and challenging us to let Him use our past to help someone in the present or future.
    God bless you and your passion for Him and people! Your writing just keeps getting better and better, by the way!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you for such a nice compliment! You are so sweet and encouraging. I really appreciate you, your comments, your blog, and that half-smile in your gravatar pic that I can tell goes from ear to ear with the joy of the Lord! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I really really mean it about your writing!!!! I just have this feeling that He is gearing you up for something. It makes me excited each time I read your blog, for you, for Him, for what He wants to do and will do!

  6935. What is that about ‘great minds’? The same thought is contained in one of the two blogs I am preparing at present.

    “Make me somewhat better” is preferred to one I hear a lot “This is the way God made me, so you have to love me as I am”.

    The latter tries to put the blame on God but doesn’t excuse. The former is useless. God doesn’t reform and isn’t interested in self-improvement. His emphasis is on re-creation: a complete change with a change of ownership and control.

    Thankfully, I am not the person I was 50 years ago – or 5 years ago – or 5 weeks ago. Left to myself, I would be on a downhill path, but *HE* continues His work in me, gradually changing me, molding me into Christlikeness. I am nowhere near the goal, but I know He will continue His work and will one day present me faultless before the throne – but certainly NOT due to any effort of mine.

    Reply

    • Angela, I’ve heard that, too, from people who insist they don’t need to change and God loves them like they are. I know God loves me like I am, but He doesn’t want to leave me that way. He wants to make me just like Jesus. I can’t wait to read your post on this. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6936. Heck yes, Linda. In my childlike 16 year old way, I’m way too scared to ask for complete change, when I’d rather hang on to parts of the old me.

    Maybe I’d be better off going all the way, a new creature in Christ. It’s been a rough confusing Alzheimer’s/ barking dog day. Maybe I’m ready to take that leap.

    Do I have the guts to ask Him? We’ll have to see… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I must confess that I’m a long way from the wholesale makeover myself. I’ve let go of a lot of the old me, but there are parts I still want to hang on to. We’re all a work in progress. By the way, your poem is going to be one of My Tuesday Three tomorrow. I hope you won’t mind. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6937. |>> “If I had only five minutes with God, I would spend every second of it praising Him for His love, grace, and mercy”
    I love that paragraph and agree wholeheartedly. I don’t think one word about self or self deeds could pass my lips.

    Everything is only because of Him and His work within me and through me. I think of words from Stuart Townend’s ‘How Deep the Father’s Love for us’ . . . “I will not boast in anything: no gifts, no power, no wisdom: but I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection.”

    Five minutes! Thankfully we have all eternity to praise Him for what HE has achieved – and we’ll need it all!
    Angela

    Reply

    • Angela, I love that hymn! It’s one of my favorites. I cannot boast in anything of my own. I made a mess of things before I let Him take over my life. I am so glad we will have all eternity to praise Him, too, and we will need every minute, indeed. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6938. This is really ministering to me Linda . .. thank you. Loved the song, of course. Your message with it is powerful. It is something that I keep praying for, nearly everyday, for Him to change me. But I need to add “completely” to that prayer.
    Quite a few years back, I was praying. There was a lot going on, a lot of family around me not happy with me, a lot of pressure. Oh my I prayed. You probably know what happened, don’t you? None of them changed, my situation didn’t change, but somehow He changed me and how I dealt with it all. 🙂 I keep needing that kind of change.
    God bless you and your heart for Him, and your desire to ask and want Him to change you.

    Reply

    • Deb, That does seem to be the most amazing thing about prayer – it doesn’t change our circumstances but it allows God to change how we deal with the circumstances we are in! We always want others to change, but we have no control over them. We need to just find joy in the Lord and pray He will change what He sees fit to change. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6939. Wonderful! Thank you. This poem took me back in memory to the day I found out that my sins were G-O-N-E – forever and totally G-O-N-E – NEVER to be remembered by God or brought to account.

    As a Roman Catholic, although I was granted ‘absolution’ after confession, my sins were never GONE. I knew that one day I would pay for them in (so-called) purgatory. If I had not committed a (so-called) mortal sin since my last confession, I had to confess one from a previous confession, along with the (so-called) venial sins committed since.

    What a joy it was when I saw from Scriptures that if I told God about a previously confessed and forgiven sin, He would reply, “My dear child, you must be mistaken. I have NO RECORD of your committing that sin”

    What a blessing!
    What forgiveness!
    What a cleansing!
    What a Saviour!

    Reply

    • Wonderful! I am so glad you found that joy! We know from the scriptures that there is only one unforgivable sin, and that is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. I don’t fully understand what that is, but am confident that I would know it if I saw it. All others will be forgiven if we just ask.

      I’ve often wondered about the idea of purgatory, and why we would have to do anything to pay for our own sins if Jesus already paid the price. I am so glad His sacrifice is sufficient and that “it is finished” with His saving work on the cross. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6940. Thanks, Linda

    “He wants to tear down the old house and build an entirely new one.”
    This has been echoing in my head all day…

    Made me think of 2 Corinthians 5:17 … ” 17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” Made me also wonder how many old things I have tried to make functional when all I had to do was give them to Him so He could give me something new in return.

    Sometimes the obvious is not so obvious. I am thankful for His patience!

    Blessings much, Linda
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I think I’m still a little bit in remodeling mode myself, though I’m closer to wanting Him to tear down the house and start afresh than I once was. I am thankful for His patience, too! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6941. Linda, I liked that translation of “O God who declares me innocent” too! Thank you! Also, Aub and I pray verse 8 every night as she goes to bed. 🙂
    God bless you and thank you for Psalm Sundays!
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Verse 8 is a great before bed prayer! I love Psalm Sundays because it keeps me going back to the Psalms every week, and that’s a good thing. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6942. Congratulations on your 500th and on your posting every day..
    Thank you for your words of wisdom and challenge and encouragement.

    A word from 2 Timothy 4:2 (Amplified)
    Keep your sense of urgency, whether the opportunity seems to be favourable or unfavourable, whether it is convenient or inconvenient, whether it be welcome or unwelcome; you as a preacher of the Word are to show people in what ways their lives are wrong and convince them, rebuking and correcting, warning and urging and encouraging them; being unflagging and inexhaustible in patience and teaching.

    Reply

    • Thanks! What a great version of the 2 Timothy verse. Fits great with the sermon we heard today, which was about staying true to the faith in the face of ridicule and scoffing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6943. Thanks, Linda

    Psalm 4:8 has been a constant reminder of His protection and His omnipresence even in the midst of turmoil. It doesn’t always seem like He is there but I know He never leaves us alone!

    I like the entire Psalm but verse 5 has my wheels turning… When we face danger, we often get thrown off course but I am thankful for this reminder to “Offer sacrifices in the right spirit, and trust the Lord.”

    Our God is mighty to save! … It all comes back to a matter of trusting Him.;-)

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I agree verse 8 us a great comfort. It’s a great one to meditate on as we go to sleep at night. Our Lord is mighty to save. Though we will have troubles in this world, in the end we will be with Him for eternity. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6944. It completely baffles me how one can look at creation and NOT believe in a Creator God – and the closer we look at creation’s marvels, we more we marvel at our Creator God.
    What an incredible God we know, love and serve!

    Reply

    • Baffled – that is exactly how I feel when I hear someone say there is no Creator. I’m so glad there is not only a Creator God, but that He offers us, His creation, love and mercy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6945. I don’t think I’ve had a fear like that, but for many years I had horrendous nightmares, waking with a huge tarantula spider coming down towards my face. I would wake screaming and my husband said I had goosebumps the size of pumpkins. Whenever I saw a spider of any sort, I would literally freak out.
    After my loving heavenly Father gently lead me through the day under the house that had caused these nightmares, my dread of spiders vanished. I’ll never really like spiders, but they hold no terror.

    Yes, truly God is great. When He heals – whether it be past hurts, harmful addictions, fears, dreads, anxieties or whatever – He heals completely.

    What a Saviour!

    Reply

    • I’m not a big fan of spiders, either, but am not really scared of them. My water phobia stems from the time I sunk to the bottom of the pool when learning to tread water in swim lessons when I was in the third grade. Someone had to jump in the 7 foot deep pool and pull me out because I couldn’t get back up to the surface. For years I had bad dreams about being under water and there being something on the surface preventing me from getting above water. I am so thankful that God has healed me of this terrible phobia and so many other things. 🙂 He is awesome! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6947. Linda . . .thank you. You had no idea, but this review touched on something He and I were discussing. I’m in Acts and read where Stephen was full of faith and power. Full. And he did great signs and wonders while full of faith and God’s power. Are we not seeing and doing all He wants to do through us because we only have a little faith?
    And I love how the end of the book affected you, what you thought about that answer to having only 5 min. with God. He already knows all we have done!
    God bless you, Linda, as you continue to praise and worship Him and let your faith grow!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love what you took from this review, how it related to what has been on your heart lately. I don’t think His church does do all we could or all He wants us to do because we don’t have more faith. I also think we don’t do more because so many Christians are afraid of standing up for the Gospel and being viewed as intolerant of other religions. There was very much a theme of all religions being the same in this book, and that all that mattered was that you had faith in your own and passed it on to the next generation. As for my 5 minutes, I am so thankful that I will not be limited to that when the time comes, but that I have an eternity to spend with Him – and that eternity starts now! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6948. Worrying is such a useless activity and achieves no benefit – and yet we tend to do it whenever we take our eyes off the Lord. If we REALLY trust Him, we would find it impossible to worry. Roll on that happy day!

    Reply

    • So true! Jesus loves me and He will be coming back someday (maybe sooner than we think). These things I know to be true and are worth meditating on. Why waste time thinking about things that might be but probably won’t? Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6949. Thank you, Linda, for helping us even when it’s not easy and you could use some help yourself! Like dinner out . . . 🙂
    God bless you as you serve Him and us!

    Reply

  6950. Thanks, Linda

    My dressing solution is an imitation of Kraft Calories Wise … Works out to about 5-10 calories per tbsp… It’s not a ceasar but I can pretend! lol

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, The low fat brand I’ve been using is 60 calories per tbsp, and as long as I watch what else I eat and don’t do Caesars every night it’s been working out for me. I tried the spray on dressing one time, because it is very low cal, but it has no flavor at all! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6951. This is so good . . .and it has brought me to tears tonight. There is such comfort in my sins being erased . . .something that I could never do. So, so thankful too . . .a perfect thankful Thursday post.
    Loving the comments! 🙂
    God bless you for your thankful heart!

    Reply

    • Deb, The comments on this one were touching to me, too. I love Theresa’s addition of the Psalm. It is a comfort to know our sins are erased. We just need to always remember that He is faithful in His promise to forgive! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6952. Thanks, Linda!!

    “…You erased every sin
    All that remained was You…”

    O HAPPY DAY!!!!

    God bless you for sharing,
    ann

    Reply

  6954. What a beautiful post!…so beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing it!

    1Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD.

    2Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.

    3If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?

    4But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.

    5I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.

    6My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning.

    7Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption.

    8And he shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, Thank you for adding that Psalm. Just this morning as I was getting ready for work “I Wait for the Lord” by Jeremy Camp came on my iPod. It is based on verse 5 of this Psalm. But I think the verse that really stands out for me is verse 3: “If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?” So glad He has erased all my iniquities and given me the opportunity to stand before Him on judgment day knowing He has been faithful. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • “But I think the verse that really stands out for me is verse 3: ‘If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?’ So glad He has erased all my iniquities and given me the opportunity to stand before Him on judgment day knowing He has been faithful.”

        That is my favorite verse in the psalm. I am glad, too. 🙂

  6955. I love how He brings poems to you. 🙂 And I love this poem and need it too. I start off with the best of intentions each day, to not say what doesn’t need said . . .but there is most always something that slips out in weariness and haste that I regret and must confess.
    God bless you and your heart that yearns for Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love that you took this poem from the opposite perspective as what I wrote it. For me, it was the failure to forgive something said to me that I have to learn to forgive, to not just hold onto my grudge. But I suspect there are things I’ve said that I need forgiven for, too. 🙁 Thanks for pointing out the other perspective. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6956. Thanks, Linda

    “Teach me Lord
    To forgive and forget
    Words spoken
    Day by day
    Seventy times seven
    To infinity
    To eternity“

    I so pray!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I don’t know why it is so much harder to forgive the little, daily things people do than it is to forgive the big, one-time hurts. The ability to forgive is something I need to pray for every day. Without forgiveness, all is lost. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6957. Whenever I’m writing (at my leisure) I think of you and the commitment you’ve made to contribute so much. I admire your discipline…

    I wonder why we, as believers, need a reminder for joy. “Sorrow no more, dance and be glad.” I recall that Solomon danced, but he seems so unhappy to me. He could have used your reminder, just like me! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I’ve gotten to the point now where my blogging is beyond commitment and is now an obsession. (It actually didn’t take long to get to that point!) It really does help keep my mind clear and focused on God. It helps me to maintain my joy! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6958. Linda, I love that you dance, even if it isn’t something that most do at your church. 🙂 That’s not always easy to do even if you are from a dancing, jumping church. ha! There was a small window of time, when Aubrey was still in public school, older sis too, hubby working days, that I had part of a day at home to clean and work on things . . .and DANCE and praise Him too.
    Loving the song, Ann! And the responses! And here’s Paulette’s post , Linda . . .

    http://pbus1.wordpress.com

    God bless you as you dance for Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, When I was a little girl, I wanted to be a dance choreographer. I obviously didn’t follow that dream, but dancing is still important to me. Thanks for the link to Paulette’s post. I’m heading over the check it out now. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6959. I heart that Lynda – that David’s dancing came from inside – and led to the outside action. And David – poor David – never had very good taste in women. I’m sure there was some nice Jewish girl around – but he never ended up with one 🙁

    Thank you for this Linda – I’m not a dancer either – but I certainly don’t begrudge someone filled with the spirit – and dancing about. God bless and keep you and all of yours.

    Reply

    • Craig, I attend a Lutheran Church and whenever I get the urge to dance a bit to an upbeat contemporary song, I feel a little out of place, but I do it anyway. 🙂 There are some songs that just make me want to dance and praise the Lord! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6960. The culmination of our faith is to be united with God in Heaven. Surely celebration of that is a time for dancing? I have seen dancing at a funeral for those who truly loved the Lord and had been called home – it takes getting used to!

    Reply

    • If my family and loved ones dance at my funeral in celebration of the fact that I’ve gone home to be with the Lord, that would be fine with me. 🙂 But I would have a hard time dancing at someone else’s funeral for fear of upsetting someone. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6961. Thanks Linda!

    “In the meantime, I’ll keep dancing with joy to celebrate the blessings of our God.”
    Thank you so much for the reminder to dance! I am a dancer indeed!! I sing and dance like there’s no tomorrow! I dance now, but I look forward to that dance … that final day when Jesus comes to get us. What rejoicing (dancing) that will be!

    Here’s one of my favourite ‘dancing’ songs 😉

    Dancing my way over to Pastor Bryan’s 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    P.S. Paulette wrote a comment today about David’s dancing and Michal’s response! Cool!!

    Reply

  6962. Linda, thank you for being bold for Him and for us! Praying with you to stay close to Him and what desires us to proclaim in His name! I keep feeling an excitement each time I’m here. And you know that I love that Third Day song, right? 🙂
    God bless you and your next 500 with Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love your prayer! And I love that Third Day song, too. The first Third Day CD I ever owned was Offerings which has a live version of Thief followed by Consuming Fire. It is still my favorite Third Day CD. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6963. Congrats, Linda 🙂

    I was thinking that last week you were halfway through the post-a-day challenge. That’s pretty neat! Praying continued guidance and strength as you share what He places in your heart.

    “This is my prayer – that the consuming fire of the Holy Spirit would burn away all fear and timidity, and cause boldness for Christ to reign in my life and my next 500 posts.”
    Praying in agreement with you!!

    God bless you as you step out boldly for Him.

    Blessinngs,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks! I can’t say I’m surprised by how much I love blogging because I love to write, but I am surprised by how much the Lord has strengthened my faith and boldness in the process. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Myfanwy, It worked for Peter and John! I think boldness is one of those “ask and you shall receive” type of prayers. You will no doubt encounter opportunities to be bold if you pray for boldness! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6965. Congratulations on such a milestone!! And I love this post. I’m asking God if my writing is timid when it should be bold. I’m always thinking I should tone it down a bit…but now, ya got me thinking!

    Reply

    • Karla, Thanks! Boldness is definitely what He calls us to, I believe. But as our guest speaker pointed out, boldness is not the same as obnoxiousness. As I was praying this morning it came to me that boldness must be coupled with gentleness and humility. Our boldness should always point to Christ and Him crucified. I think your writing has that good balance of boldness and humility, but it is always good to keep thinking and praying about it so that we stay on track for Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6967. What a beautiful Psalm to go with your trip . . .and it matched your campsite number? wow. I see more of Him at work in your life and it makes me so excited . . .and giddy! Oh yes it does! ha!
    God bless you and cover you throughout your week!

    Reply

    • Deb, On the way to the campground my husband said he had a feeling we were going to find a great campsite. When we got to the campground there were only 4 first come, first serve sites left and 89 was just perfect! I was so tickled to read Psalm 89! God is so awesome! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6968. Thank you, Linda 🙂

    “The heavens are yours, and the earth is yours;
    everything in the world is yours—you created it all.”

    All His!! He created it all for His pleasure. So thankful that He allows us to enjoy the wonder of His creation.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Last year vacation was in New York City where everything is manmade; this year the Redwoods, the Rogue River, and the beach where everything is created by God. The latter was much more impressive to me. So glad He allows us to enjoy His creation as well! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6969. We have the assurance that He loves us. Praise His Name that He came to fulfil prophecy, and that the Old Testament is only complete in Him.

    Lovely Psalm. Sounds like a great trip.

    Reply

    • Myfanwy, I don’t know where my next water trip will be, but I know He wants me to move out in His Spirit of Power and not have fear in anything I do. We came home a day early from our trip, so I went to church this morning and the sermon was on being bold for Christ. Our guest speaker quoted 2 Timothy 1:7! I think God is trying to tell me something. If I can conquer one of my greatest fears with His help, I can do anything. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6971. Thanks for sharing, Linda

    This post makes me smile as I think through past conversations I have had about large bodies of water.

    Hawaii is on my dream destination but getting there has me rethinking.
    …. I should take a page or two from your book. 🙂 Funny, I know that verse by heart but I just walk around doing the boat or ship or cruise liner ideas 🙂 I will get there yet!

    Nice shot.! I`ve never seen one up close so thanks mucho.

    Blessings much,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Always remember, you can do all things through Christ who strengthens us! If He wants you to do something, He will give you the power and the courage to do it. Glad you liked the photo. I wish my bald eagle photos had turned out better. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6972. LInda, this just encourages me so much, to see how He guides you and then covers you. And makes those verses come to life for you. I feel like He is preparing you for something more, for the future plans that He has for you. 🙂
    God bless you and lead you on fearlessly today!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad this encouraged you. I think you might be right about Him preparing me for something more. In church this morning the topic was being bold for Christ, and this 2 Timothy verse was quoted by our guest speaker (even though it was not one of the scheduled readings for the day). He mentioned a writing instructor he once had who said his students’ writing was timid when it needed to be bold. I realized that as bold as I am with my writing, God wants me to be bolder – though not obnoxious. Fearless – that is what I want to be! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6973. I remember driving with my family from Southern California to Ohio when I was about ten years old…how weird is that? There were five kids and two adults crammed into a station wagon and all I remember was puking and being laughed at!
    I think I developed what has turned in to severe claustrophobia on that trip.
    I shudder to think of it…
    But, hey, Linda…thanks for the memories!! Haha 🙂
    Bee well, my friend!

    Reply

    • Barbee, That is weird! I have lots of memories from that trip – like seeing an alligator out on the boardwalk at the first rest stop in Louisiana, but no one believed me, eating “square donuts” in New Oreleans, and seeing tons of baby crabs going in and our of holes on the beach in Galveston, TX. Shortly before he died, my dad gave me some of our old family photo albums and one has pictures from the Cali to Ohio trip. They are fun to look at. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, The only hard part is deciding what nice picnic site to stop at! We had these at the beach in California, in the middle of the Redwoods, and almost stopped by a herd of elk but decided to keep going. Memories indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6976. This brings back so many good memories of traveling and the sandwiches were extra special because of it! 🙂 Thank you and God bless you and your travels!

    Reply

    • Deb, It is amazing how a sandwich that would taste just okay at home tastes wonderful on the road because of the scenery and memories! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6977. What an exciting and perfect poem! 🙂 and loving the comments too! I liked how you let God carry you away and not the beauty of what He created. 🙂 Go right to the source, eh?
    Once a young buy wise woman told me nature was God’s love notes to us!
    God bless you and sink you deep into His love!

    Reply

  6978. Yes, I praise God for the freedom we have in our countries – USA and Australia – but our freedom is being whittled away as Christian morals and ethics are being torn down and replaced with humanistic thinking.

    Even though our freedom is being challenged and we are ridiculed for our beliefs, we do not endure anywhere near the persecution faced by believers in many other countries. We need to pray for our persecuted brethren throughout the world – and for their persecutors, that they will see and understand the difference that Christ makes and turn from their false beliefs.

    Thank you for sharing this.

    Reply

  6982. Thank you, Linda

    This is very beautiful. I had all these word pictures running through my head as I read your poem. David, the Psalmist, also popped by singing “The heavens declare the glory of God, the firmament showeth His handiworks”.

    How excellent is His name!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

      • Ann, What a perfect song to add to this post! Thank you! I saw some of those things shown in the video on vacation – the bald eagle, the redwoods, the ocean – because of them and so much more I stand in awe. Peace, Linda

  6983. I really liked this poem. It read much like my favorite hymns. I was thinking about your comment about the ocean. Something so powerful is still subject to Him. It reminded me of this quote:

    “‘Yes,’ said Queen Lucy. ‘In our world too, a Stable once had something inside it that was bigger than our whole world.'”–C.S. Lewis (The Last Battle)

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, What a great C.S. Lewis quote. I love “The Last Battle.” Actually, the whole Chronicles of Narnia and anything by Lewis. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6984. I am reminded of the wonderful promise recorded in John 8:36: “If the Son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed” . . . “free indeed!” . . . there is no greater freedom.

    He has freed us from so much and I praise Him for it.

    Reply

  6985. >> “When someone looks at me do they see something different? Do they see something deep inside that is worth learning about? Do they see faith and love in action so clearly that they want to know what (or Who) is behind it all?”

    This is what the Christian life SHOULD BE.
    I am sure people see this in you. If all of God’s children lived as we should, we would live in a different kind of world.

    Reply

    • That is so nice of you to say! I hope people see Christ in my life, but I think it is important to frequently take spiritual inventory just to make sure. It’s easy to become complacent and comfortable, and lose that which makes us different. You are right, though, that we would live in a much better world if all of God’s children lived as we should. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6986. I really like this kind of poetry… where the words don’t really rhyme, but flow.

    I struggle with forgiving people that hurt me, too. Sometimes I have to talk it over with God several days in a row.

    “Then he showed me the way, to let got of the anger, the bitterness.” And it’s so true. I needed this blessed reminder. Hugs…

    Reply

    • Linda, I find it most difficult to forgive the little, daily things that bug me than to forgive the big hurts that are all said and done. It does take talking it over with God and asking for His power to forgive. I certainly was never able to do it on my own. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6987. I love how and what you express through poetry! It means all the more when He just sends them to you. 🙂 Thank you for sharing your special poems with us! God bless you and all the ways He speaks through you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I am so thankful that reading your poetry has been a big part of my own ventures into poetry writing. I do quite enjoy it – to say so much with so few words is challenging and a blessing because I must always rely on Jesus. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6988. Thank you, Linda

    “… But you didn’t care
    You didn’t even know
    I only hurt me more”

    I still hear this echoing… when we choose not to forgive those who hurt us, we truly hurt ourselves.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  6990. God bless the USA…we do live in a great country!!
    I’m happy to hear the weather is good in the Pacific Northwest, I’m about to travel there.
    I am spending the summer with my best friend (the one who owns Tyler the Newfoundland)…I hope to share pictures and stories of my travels on my blog.
    Thanks for sharing the information about Pastor Youcef…he will be in my prayers.
    God bless…
    Bee

    Reply

  6991. Thank you for these great 3 verses about worry! 🙂 I always, always need reminders. Sometimes worry slips up on me before I realize it. That peace that passes understanding . . .that is so real and priceless. I’m with you, I never want to live without it!
    God bless you and yours on this worry-free time away! 🙂

    Reply

  6993. Thank you, Linda

    How assuring!!! Thanks for linking the three and sharing them with us.

    Blessings,
    ann
    Sharing a song from my all time favourite group featuring Anita Baker

    Reply

  6995. Dear Linda . . .this really hit me. There are so many to pray for, so much to lift up to Him. I can’t imagine what this man and his family are going through. . .for doing what just comes naturally to me, without fear of arrest.
    God bless you and all the ways you use your freedoms for Him.

    Reply

  6997. Thank you so much, Linda! I love it when you see something new too, and share it with us. 🙂 Praying to show others Jesus each day! God bless you as you share Him face to face and here in blog land!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks so much. I’m going to be away from my computer this next week, though I may get a moment here and there to get online. So don’t be surprised if I don’t reply to every comment as I usually do. 🙂 Have a wonderful 4th of July! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  6998. Oh I love it! And I love the campfire advice in order not to have flaming marshmallows! 🙂 You know, this takes less ingredients than regular smores . . .so yaay! God bless you and yours this weekend and up coming week!

    Reply

  6999. Before camp fires were banned by authorities the children and teens at our camps loved toasted marshmallows. We didn’t have Oreos but we used either halved cream biscuits or two savoury round crackers. The combination of sweet and sour was more popular.

    Reply

  7001. Unceasing prayer – or the attitude of being in the presence of our loving Father God and under His guidance and control – is the secret to a victorious Christian life. If only we could act on this knowledge A-L-L the time!
    Thanks for the reminder.

    Reply

  7002. I also like this song and when we sing “changing me and changing you” I can’t help but think of and praise God for the dramatic change in my life when I came to know Him. What power! What love!

    What a Saviour!
    Christ died to save and He lives to KEEP and one day He is coming back for me. What a Saviour!

    Reply

  7003. So many times in our busy life, when we actually stop and take time out for meditation on the goodness of God, we later find that the time “lost” was really gain, because “things go better” and we are able to achieve so much more in a shorter time.
    What a great God we serve!

    Reply

    • So very true! Time spent alone with God is never lost or wasted time, and actually seems to multiply the available productive time for the remainder of the day. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7004. This is amazing! 🙂 And I love how it is on prayer yet too. I’m so blessed by you, your blog and your poetry!
    God bless you as you listen to Him each day!
    p.s. I also love that part of Revelation! I find myself saying it too.

    Reply

    • Deb, It was you who inspired me to start writing poetry again, so it is only fitting that you would be blessed by it! 🙂 And it is Jesus who gives me the words that makes it poetry worth reading! I love the Revelation verse and how it echos the Isaiah verse. The sight of those angels singing “Holy, Holy, Holy” is something I don’t want to miss when I get to Heaven. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7005. Thank you, Linda

    This is very nice! Thanks for sharing.

    “learning to listen to Him.
    So am I 😉 .. I’m told it makes the difference 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I KNOW it makes a difference! A quick comparison of a day when I do and a day when I don’t make that quite evident. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      P.S. I just wanted to say thanks again for inspiring Thankful Thursdays. This has become one of my favorite theme days on my blog, and I am loving the stretch to write poetry every week and to rely on Him to do it.

      Reply

  7006. Hi Linda,

    I was reminded of this post you wrote a while back when I read a “Freshly Pressed” post today which has been featured for about a week now on the WordPress main page.

    I usually ignore the featured posts, but my curiosity got the best of me and I finally clicked on “The 20 Most Rewatchable Movies Of All Time” (as of today, it is still on the main page). Freshly Pressed?? This post was dated February 14, 2010!!! Right now it says there have been 491,297 posts written so far today (it’s not even 1 PM P.S.T.). So, basically with nearly half a Million posts to choose from, just from today, not to mention the half a million or so from every day this week, they felt the need to feature a post that’s a year and a half old.

    I thought you might find this as interesting and ironic as I did 🙂

    Loren

    Reply

    • Loren, I am laughing right now because I was compelled to click on that very post yesterday and noticed the date. I wondered the very same thing. If I brought bread that old it defintely wouldn’t still be fresh. Neither is that post, which mentions a sequel that is supposed to come out in 2010!

      I have been having fun with My Tuesday Three theme that was started from this post, though. It’s moved beyond blogs to whatever “three” God leads me to. So far He hasn’t led me to the Freshly Pressed page. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • That’s funny because it was that exact statement (about the “upcoming” sequel) that made me look up and notice the publication date in the first place. Guess I assumed it was more recent before I got to that part 🙂
        I am glad that this inspired you to write your excellent “Tuesday Three” series…it’s introducing us to a lot of very wonderful resources!

  7008. I love this poem! And don’t remember reading it at Idylls, so I’m glad to have my sagging memory refreshed, in such a holy way. 🙂 Praying for your week off to be just what God wants it to be, for you and your family. 🙂 God bless you and all these posts that He so amazingly blesses you and us with! That’s what I like about that post a day challenge . . .it has me needing to be with Him all the more. 🙂
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad this was all new for you! 😉 It really was my way of posting something easy for today. Next week is really going to be a challenge because I think I have to do it all ahead of time! I don’t know if we’ll have Internet where we are going, or that I will have time when we are trying to enjoy the great outdoors. But that’s all the more reason I need Jesus to help me. 🙂 I already have an idea for my Music Monday post. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7009. Thanks Linda.

    Great piece on the “Blessed Trinity” !

    Your poem also made me think of Leviticus 11:44 “… consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy. …”

    Holy is our Lord indeed!

    Thanks for sharing
    Blessings
    ann

    (lol. Do I see a Tuesday Three in here somewhere? 🙂 )

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you so much for adding that beautiful song! I had never heard it before but it is perfect to go with this post. As for a Tuesday Three, perhaps His Holiness will be the subject of a future Tuesday Three post. I will keep my eyes and ears open! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7010. You have a gift with writing poetry. Always enjoy your post! I will be taking a week off to spend time with family and to allow God to refill my cup. I have one more post that I will publish in the next couple of days and then time off! But, I will be back! God is still speaking and I still have to write!
    Blessings to you and your family! April

    Reply

    • April, Thank you. It is definitely a gift that was given when I started really listening to God for my poetry. My older poetry, which was very self-centered and dark, was not nearly as good. I pray you will have a wonderful time off. I’m taking a week vacation next week, too, but plan to schedule a post for every day before I leave. It is times like this that I wonder why I took the post-a-day challenge! But it has been wonderful to feel the need to listen to Him each day for what to write. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7011. This is so good, Linda . . .and that He would decide if your Tuesday Three are blogs or quotes or scripture, I love that! He always knows what we need. And we need to learn more about prayer and to pray more (or at least I do!).
    God bless you as you pray and seek Him more today!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love that: “He always knows what we need.” Often when I post I think it isn’t what I want to post, but for one reason or another it is what He leads me to post because I’ve nothing on myown, and those are the times when I get the most comments about the message being just what someone needed to hear. 🙂 When I go my own way, I get a lot fewer comments of that nature. And we can never learn too much about fervent prayer that brings us closer to God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7012. Thank you, Linda

    Beautiful quotes. I like this post very much. Very enriching comments too. 🙂 Your recent writings are pushing me to re-read “The Practice of the Presence of God”. I think I’ll take the bait 🙂

    “I will not cease to pray for my loved ones and for everyday needs, but in praying for them I desire to seek God’s answer rather than to dictate to Him what His answer should be.”
    Thanks for the heads-up, Linda. I am learning…

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Just this morning I caught myself dictating some results to God during my prayer time, then got that Holy Spirit check and changed my prayer. I’m learning, too! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7013. It is constant conversation with God and consultation with God that gets me through each day! Prayer is very powerful! Blessings

    Reply

    • April, I agree. If I find myself feeling overwhelmed or overly stressed, I know it is because I have forgotten to pay attention to my conversation with Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • You’re welcome! It’s one of my favorites and I’ve been so blessed to have been able to bring a new song to so many of my blogging friends. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • I try to let all of my posts be God-led, but being human sometimes a self-led one creeps in now and then. But this one was all His doing! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7016. Linda, it does have that old hymn feel to it! I haven’t heard it before either, so was extra blessed. This may sound silly . . .I don’t know that I’ve actually thought about how reading God’s word changes me. ! I just thought about Him changing me. So thank you for opening my eyes to that. How all the more important it becomes to stay reading His word.
    God bless you and all the changes He brings forth!

    Reply

    • Deb, I believe that it is Jesus who changes us, but He uses His Holy Word as a tool to do just that. Just as I wrote on Wednesday, the Scriptures are the servant of God. And they are a faithful and good servant that does what it is called to do. I knew you would like this song. It is one of my favorites that we sing in church. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7017. I am not saying that I have mastered it – I haven’t – but “practicing the presence of God” has been a great experience, especially during hectic times of busy-ness.

    “Practicing the presence of God” requires waking up with the thought of entering the day with God, like – “Good morning, Lord. What have You planned for us to do together today? Help me to keep on track and not go my own way.” Then, every task we consider, we refer to Him, knowing that He is right there and that He is ready to guide and help. The whole day becomes a communication – a two-way communication.

    As I say, I often START right but all too often I leave my Saviour standing, waiting, with a sad look, while I go about my own way. However, the times when I have depended on Him throughout the day have been a very real blessing and I wonder why I don’t ALWAYS seek Him in every little detail.

    Reply

    • I have not mastered it yet, either, but continue to practice and have improved over the years. I know what you mean about the days of not waiting for the Lord. At the end of such days I wonder how they got so hectic and stressful, then remember that I failed to rely on my greatest source of strength. And like you, on the days when I keep close beside Him all day I wonder why I don’t do it every day! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7018. Thank you, Linda

    Sounds like you had a wonderful time at the retreat.

    That’s quite a beautiful song too… I’ve never heard it before but I will be hearing it a lot now 🙂 Ancient words, but they remain as relevant as the day they were written.

    Thank you for sharing the ‘Ancient Words’

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It was a wonderful retreat! I’m glad you like the song. One thing I really love about our worship team at church and our “blended” worship services is that we get to sing good old hymns AND some great contemporary Christian songs. This is one of those that is contemporary but could almost pass for an old hymn. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7019. I have been searching all over your blog for this post. I never forgot this post and that quotation…sooo powerful! I finally found an old facebook inbox message that I sent to a friend. It contained the title of this post and the quote…I copied and pasted it from here into that message.

    I shared this quote with someone I love more than you could possibly imagine just a few moments ago in hopes that it will encourage Him to keep praying even though he no longer is confident that the God of the Bible exists, and that the Bible is without error. He told me He still prays and asks the Lord to show Him something to help him believe.

    I would appreciate it if you would pray for this person.

    Reply

    • Theresa, I had not thought about this quote in a long time. Thank you for prompting me to re-read that post. I was struck by how the post that I have already scheduled for tomorrow echos the sentiment of the quote and post. 🙂 God’s timing can be quite amazing! I will certainly pray for your friend. And never forget that God loves them more than you can imagine. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7020. LInda, this Psalm was so perfect with your other posts . It was like you gave us a little blog retreat. 🙂 And I loved the other comments too. The Psalms always seem to say something to me that I need to hear. Thank you and God bless you as you still yourself before Him each day!

    Reply

    • Deb, I wish you could have been at our retreat! I suppose we may have to wait until we go home to heaven to enjoy a retreat together, but until then I so appreciate your friendship. Our retreat was a lot about friendships as well as our relationship with God. There was less being still than one might expect! A lot of talking, which is right up my alley. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7021. The living Word and the written Word. They totally agree. If we are deprived of the written Word we still have the Holy Spirit to recall the Word which is in our memories and in our hearts. Best of all, as you have said, we still have the living Word – the Word who has promised never to leave us; the Word who strengthens, enables and encourages us and is all we need.

    Because the time could be coming when we will not have the written Word, we should be diligent about “hiding God’s Word in our hearts” so that even if it is taken from us, we will still have it – or at least portions of it.

    Reply

    • I am so thankful that we do have the written Word, and you are exactly right that a time may be coming when we will have it no longer. We can’t just let it sit on a shelf while there is still time to hide it in our hearts. I am also so thankful that Jesus will always be with us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7022. ” The meaning of this Hebrew term is unknown for sure, but based on how it is placed in the Psalms, especially those that have notations at the beginning for the director of music, is seems to indicate a pause or interlude in the music.”

    I once heard it meant “Pause and reflect on that.” I am so glad you had a good time. It is a wonderful thing to be still. There is another Psalm I like to meditate on when I am trying to quiet myself and also a song.

    Psalm 131

    1Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.

    2Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.

    3Let Israel hope in the LORD from henceforth and for ever.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BeHjYK2Z1YI&w=425&h=349%5D

    Reply

    • Theresa, Thank you so much for the link to that song. It is beautiful, just like you! It would have been more calming if I didn’t have the sound of video games in the background from my sons room. 😉 I’ll have to listen again later when it’s quiet around here. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7023. My life is full of clamour. The only silence I get is when I’m on my own – or in the very early hours of the morning. It was different before my DH retired, I could find peace at any time of the day. Now I treasure the moments. The lack of ‘pauses’ is not of my making, but the precious Lord knows and makes those times so very special.
    Stop
    Enthrone the
    Lord
    Amen
    Hallelujah

    Reply

  7025. Thank you, Linda

    ” Continual prayer doesn’t require constant words; it requires only continual awareness of the presence of God.”
    This jumped off the page at me… I think it lends understanding to the ‘pray without ceasing’ verse.

    Thanks for sharing these gems with us today.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, There are days when I wish I had a life like Brother Lawrence, but most of the time I’m content with where I am. Given my present life situation, the only way I can “pray without ceasing” (my favorite translation) is to think of it in terms of awareness of His presence. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7026. Thank you Linda

    This looks nice and tasty. I’m adding this to my file 😉

    Hope He visits with you in a new and beautiful way this weekend.

    (I had some “sinless” chicken breast with tomatoes for lunch. Low-cal and healthy. Sinless indeed! lol 🙂 )

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I thought you might like this one. It’s quite healthy but not lacking in taste one bit! I suppose you could almost say the chicken in it is “sinless” because it’s low fat and no breading! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7027. I love how you made this so doable for yourself and all of us! 🙂 Thank you so much for re-posting and God bless your weekend with Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, The Women’s Retreat was wonderful. Our first session this morning was about being still and knowing that He is God. I thought of having posted this and how we can be still in our spirit, knowing He is God, even when we are busy with the day to day things of life. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7029. The clamour of the world will do all it can to spoil a special relationship with the Lord. It’s a relationship that I cherish. Thanks for reminding me that the time is ‘now’.

    Reply

    • Myfanwy, It’s a relationship I cherish as well. What is so wonderful is that He cherishes His relationship with each and every one of us even more! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment! It is wonderful to always KNOW that God is with us, loves us, and will never forsake us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7031. I’m giggling about the sinless chicken. teehee. You might start a new trend, something beyond organic. 🙂
    I happen to have some chicken on hand and no one to eat it . . .so wala! I can make myself a salad! Thank you!
    God bless you and your recipe Fridays! Praying that your retreat time is a treat and a blessing in Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, The first two session of the retreat were awesome! I just got home and should go to bed because I have to get up early, but I’m just not tired. The chicken salad was a big hit. There’s just a little left over for my hubby. 🙂
      I’m glad you got a giggle out of the sinless chicken – it was pretty funny. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting, and for the link to your pasta recipe. I will check it out. I’m trying to eat less carbs, but the occasional pasta dinner is a must! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7033. I love that your poetry “comes to you.” I know by your words that you are truly inspired.

    I hope your Women’s Retreat is a blessing! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, What a nice comment! Thank you. This week has definitely been a lesson in patience and waiting on God. I much prefer when my poems come to me a week or so ahead of time, but that was not His plan for this week. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7034. So thankful for all the times He brings you what you (and we!) need to hear. I have time issues. ha! So your poem helped a lot! Thank you and God bless you and the time you use for Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad this short poem was a blessing to you. With the little time we have I do think it is important to be aware of whether we are using it to His glory. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7035. Thanks, Linda 🙂

    Nicely done. I like-y 🙂

    “I‘m thankful for what time I have and hope I use it well
    May the Lord be glorified by what I do with each hour of each day”
    Praying this prayer. A very timely 😉 message for me .

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • I had never heard it, either, but I like it. I love getting the Quotemeal email every day because I get a lot of good Christian quotes that I might not otherwise ever hear. And it’s free! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7037. Linda, once again you went to Him and He proved Himself faithful with the perfect post. I’m not sure I ever thought of this before. It is comforting to me in so many ways. One . . .I’m not so good at memorizing. I read and read, but it doesn’t stick and stay the way it does for some. What if something happened and I was without the word? Well, I wouldn’t be without the Word, Jesus. And I love scripture, need it desperately, but when Jesus speaks something personally into my life, those things are so impacting as well, and that can’t be taken away from us.
    God bless you and your time with Him and His word!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love the Word of God! I am so thankful that we have easy access to it. But I am more thankful that if it was gone tomorrow, Jesus would still be with me. I’m so glad this post was a comfort to you. It worked well as my devotional for our BoE meeting, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7038. No excuse necessary. I can’t keep up with one a week, let alone one a day!

    Faith, hope and love – what better three! Only surpassed by Father, Son and Holy Spirit, who give us faith, hope and love and without Whom we would not enjoy such blessings.

    Reply

  7039. Thank you, Linda

    “While the Scriptures help to guide us and teach us of the love of Jesus Christ, if tomorrow we no longer had access to God’s Word in print or on the Internet, Jesus Christ would remain…”
    Deep stuff. Man can physically destroy His word but He remains forever the same. We can have all the discussions about which translations are most accurate but at the end of the day, it’s the relationship with the Person that will matter.

    “But what they never forgot was Jesus Christ. He remained with them, upholding their faith even in the darkest of circumstances. Though the servant, the Word of God, was not with them, the Master never left their sides. ”
    The days will come when we won’t be able to read the Word. It is truly important to stay connected to the Source. He never changes. Psalm 90:2 Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God!!! ( I read Tortured For Christ as a young child (and a young Christian). I have never gotten over it and from way back then my little brain tried to figure out what I would have done if I lived back then. … Now that I am older and wiser in Him, I know I will have to trust Him to lead me through the unfamiliar, unkind places.)

    Thanks for this direct and thought provoking piece, Linda. I just downloaded an audio Bible and listened to 3 chapters of Proverbs while I went about my daily business. I’m able to cover more scriptures now because I have the Word in my ear BUT I can listen until the cows come home. Unless what I hear causes me to be drawn closer to Him, what would be the point of listening (reading)?
    Thankful He never changes. ‘May the words of our mouths and the meditation of our hearts be acceptable in His sight.’

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Sadly there are those who still live today without His Word available to them and who are persecuted and tortured for their faith. You may be right that a time is coming when we will not have access to the scriptures either, and so it is important to develop a lasting relationship with Him. I personally own 5 different Bibles, plus a NT w/Psalms & Proverbs, and another book of just the Psalms. Plus my son has 2 Bibles and my husband has 1. And just last week I pre-ordered an audio version of the NT read by Johnny Cash due out in September. We are so blessed to have His Word to teach us of His love and mercy, but we are more blessed to have Him as our master. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7040. No cop out . . .and no excuse about being busy. It’s the truth! 🙂 God bless you as you do all He calls you to, in faithfulness and love!

    Reply

  7041. Thanks Linda 🙂

    Perfect three for daily living indeed;)
    Praying renewed strength for you as you take the days one at a time.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7042. What an amazing post and demonstration of love! I’m blown away at how this all progressed and how He used it to show about love, that it isn’t always easy. It takes perseverance and work too! Love how your hubby helped you . . .and you didn’t give up!
    And that love changes us . . .oh yes it does. I remember being fearful of people a lot before Christ .. .of what they thought about me. But with Jesus love in me, I can just love people, no matter what they think and whether or not they can return it.
    love you!! 🙂 God bless you and all the love He lets flow out of you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I used to be fearful and worried about what others thought, too! But now I know Jesus loves me no matter what, and that He wants me to love others. And so I do! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7043. wow! the video is cool, Revive is cool, and you are cool too Linda! I can actually see God smiling — cool!

    Thank you for sharing. Praying for total revival of my heart 🙂

    Reply

  7044. Thanks for sharing, Linda 🙂

    “When you find Love and Love finds you, that Divine Love begins to change you from deep within your heart. Selfishness and pride begin to be rooted out. Humility and concern for others begin to grow.”
    This is a great truth! I love the fact that He brought about change in me. I would rather not think what I might have become without Him.

    You’re quite a brave lady!
    I’ve been singing for many, many years yet I was as nervous as jello when I had to do a solo piece. Kudos, Linda. You did well!

    Blessings,
    ann

    P.S. Thanks for the rest of the post too. I only know Revive because of you. I think it’s fitting that you would have opted to be a part of this celebration.

    Reply

    • Ann, My courage comes from the Lord, for sure! It also helped that I knew they wouldn’t use any of my audio because I do not have a very good singing voice. I’m happy to share Revive and their music with others – they are such a wonderful witness for Christ. Their story of how they came to America – which is posted on their Facebook page – is truly an amazing story of faith and complete trust in God. They don’t just sing about faith, they live it each and every day. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7046. Thank you, Linda

    ( I love this Psalm!)

    I remember hearing a group of High School students do this as a choral speaking piece. It was magnificent! Their voices sounded like thunder as they lavished praise on Him. I totally enjoyed it.

    Thank you for sharing. I love the memories that come with it and the plea in verse 14. I just scheduled tomorrow’s blog and I’m smiling. I love the way He confirms His words.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7047. Thank you, Linda.

    This hits close to my heart.

    We are our brothers’ keepers. We can’t “change the world” but we can make a difference one person at a time.

    Blessings and thanks,,
    ann

    Reply

  7048. Thanks for the idea of a fast food voucher. As one who never shops at a fast food place that thought had never occurred to me. I didn’t know such a thing existed. (Maybe it doesn’t here in Aus. I’ll have to make enquiries)

    I have struck up a conversation with lonely, depressed looking women in the shopping centre and invited them to share a coffee and slice with me in a nearby cafe but this is a way of helping others who couldn’t be reached that way. Thanks.

    Reply

    • Angela, Here in the U.S. we can get a gift card for just about anything! Fast food, grocery stores, bookstores, pretty much anything you want to get a gift card for. I like your personal approach – I’ll bet you’ve helped a lot of women by your kindness. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7049. This psalm is so awesome and perfect for today! I didn’t realize all of that was in Psalm 19! God bless you and your Psalm Sundays!

    Reply

    • Deb, I know, I didn’t realize all that was in Psalm 19 either! And it’s not like I’ve never read it before, and surely loved it when I did, I just didn’t remember that’s what was in it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Kay, The Psalms are so beautiful. When I first started Psalm Sunday as a theme on my blog, I felt a bit guilty like I was taking the easy way out of a daily post. But the Psalms I post have been such a blessing to many. You just can’t go wrong with the Word of God! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7051. Strong words of truth. My pastor spoke on similar lines a week ago, from Jesus’ words to Simon “Do you see this woman?” So often we do not allow our eyes to see a need right in front of us, let alone those we only view at a distance. We cannot help everyone, but the fact is that so often we do not even help the ones whom God places right before us.

    Lord, open our eyes – open our hearts and compassion – to SEE the need and to DO whatever is in our power – with His enabling – to show His love. We are privileged but we DO have a responsibility.

    Angela

    Reply

    • Angela, Thank you so much for your added prayer! I love the call to action – to show true love for those in need whom God places in our path and view. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7053. Thank you so much, Linda, for talking about this and raising our awareness. I have tons compared to others. Sometimes our checking account is low and I have like $40 to get groceries with. God has helped me so much, to just get what I NEED for my family. It’s amazing how He covers me during the lean times. And it helps me see that there is so much that I don’t need and may waste when I have more money and get all sorts of things.
    More importantly . . .I didn’t open an envelope from the Peoria Rescue Ministries just today. It helps those in need in a nearby city. I’m going to open it and send something to help today . . .because He had you write this. 🙂
    God bless you and how you stay open to Him each day!

    Reply

    • Deb, Bless you for allowing this post to spur you into action, not just thought! I know there are many times I spend on things I want but don’t need. Today, shortly after writing this post, is a perfect example. My son and I went to the Christian bookstore to get a Bible cover for him to be able to take his Bible on a youth retreat this next week. While there, I found a Bible cover with the names of Jesus and an Apologetics Study Bible that I decided I really wanted, so I bought it. I do not need another Bible, though this one does have a ton of great articles in it and at least it was on sale. I also bought a Bible that will be sent to someone in the navy who is serving abroad, so I felt a little better. But I probably could have done more good with that money some other way. But I shall endeavor to make good use of it for research for future blog posts. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7054. Hi Linda! I live in Sydney in Australia and do voluntary work at Childfund an overseas humanitarian aid organisation. One part of my job is to edit the profiles of some of the children to make them ready for uptake by sponsors. I am totally amazed about how large families in Cambodia for example have to live on only US$200 per year! I am not rich by any means but it is truly humbling to read about the struggle to survive so many of these families have. It makes me think twice about how I load up my supermarket trolly when I think that some families do not have enough food to eat. I am guilty of wasting food>>>bread that I think is too stale etc, throwing out large quantities of food that I just didn’t get around to eat. It is a good wake-up call for me. All the best! Good job!

    Reply

    • Kay, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. It truly is amazing what some people in the world live on. Many eat what’s available even if it’s the same thing day after day, and nothing goes to waste. I’m trying to make some changes in my own wastefulness, but old habits are hard to break. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7056. Thanks, Linda

    Looks like quite a handy piece of equipment. 🙂 ^I`ve never seen one before but I would get excited about dinner too! The description worked as well as the pictures … I could see myself experimenting lots.
    Those who dwell herein have a passion for all things grilled. (I`m filing this one!)

    Would you put salt and pepper on the leather? 😉 I bet you could cook that well if you had a mind to. lol

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, The marketing tag line for Traeger is “Taste the difference.” It is my favorite piece of cooking equipment, and I do experiment quite a bit. As for the shoe leather, yes, a little salt and pepper, maybe a bit of basil. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7057. I love grilled chicken! 🙂 I used to marinate the chicken in Ceasar Dressing before grilling. . .but then my hubby stopped liking grilled chicken. haha!
    Your post cracked me up, each time you’d forget to take pictures. I would too!!! It’s time to eat, not look at it! 🙂
    God bless you and thank you for sharing yourself and your food ideas with us!

    Reply

    • Deb, If you hubby had chicken grilled on a Traeger he’d have to like it again! It is sooooooo good. Of course, the first night we got the new Traeger we had to have rib eye steaks – those are the best! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Lynne, It’s just out of habit because usually there are vegetable packets on the other side. The right side tends to run a little hotter so that is where I put the meat. On this night, I made cauliflower and having never tried it on the Traeger and having some other things to do I opted to boil it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • I don’t know what the problems is. When I click on the link it goes right to her blog. I also linked to it in my blogroll. That might work better for you.

      Reply

  7061. Kudos to your sister for being so politically incorrect that she mentioned the one true God in a COLLEGE CLASS! Way cool and so bold!

    Judgementalism and being our brother’s keeper is a tough one for me. Too easy to judge without even knowing it.

    I will definitely check out her bog…

    Reply

    • Linda, I’m working on letting God turn my desire to be my brother’s keeper into action. The Lord gets His way sometimes, but not as often as He should. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7062. Linda . . .this is extremely powerful. May God use it to move us, to help the least of these. To help one another. It’s really hitting me and the tears are flowing.
    God bless you as you continue to write when you are nudged.

    Reply

    • Deb, I am hoping my sister posts her paper on her blog because it was extremely powerful, too. It was an interesting assignment in that it was a series of shorter essays strung together by a common theme, called a “collage” essay. She could easily post each part as a separate blog post. And following up on what she had written seemed so much more important than the sisters poem I wrote. Not that sisters aren’t awesome, both biological sisters and sisters in Christ, and maybe eventually He will give me a better sisters poem. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Thank you, Linda, I am honored by your poem. You are a wonderful sister and you inspire me daily.

        I was thinking about posting my paper, but didn’t have a plan for how to post it, separate parts would be a good strategy. I have my conference tomorrow and will let you know how it goes.

      • Berta, You are a wonderful sister, too! I do think posting it in parts would be good. When I was first blogging I read a couple of blog tip posts and breaking longer pieces into installments was a common tip. Since your paper is already in parts it would be easy to do. Besides, I’m looking forward to reading how you ended it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

  7063. The most fantastic experience in life – being adopted into the family of the perfect Father God.
    How could anyone feel unloved and unwanted when we consider His great love and – wonder of wonder – His desire to have ME as His child!
    What amazing love.
    What an incredible Father.
    What a Saviour!

    Reply

    • So true! It is amazing that He loves us, that He loves ME, so very much. And I thought the person who put together this Love Letter did such a great job of putting together various verses highlighting that truth in a perfect progression. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Dearest Ann, Don’t take this the wrong way, but if this left you speechless (or wordless), then it must be more powerful than even I realized when I wrote it. In the end, though, it is not words that matter but action – love in action helping those in need. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Yes Linda. It truly is more powerful than you realized …

        “ In the end, though, it is not words that matter but action – love in action helping those in need. Peace, Linda ”

        We had a visiting minister on Sunday. He mentioned many of the points you wrote about! I do not think it coincidental at all … we can do so much more that we are doing but we`re so good at making excuses. If the pain is not on our doorstep we ignore it. It saddens me 🙁

        I have always maintained that there is enough wealth in the world that no one should do without but it is so unevenly distributed, people go to bed hungry while others toss out half eaten meals. I`m sorry but I get particularly passionate when matters like this come up for discussion. I may not have the financial ability to feed the world but I know we can make a difference one life at a time.

        Thank you for sharing this Linda. We do have a responsibility to be our brothers`keeper.

        Blessings,
        ann

  7069. I could learn alot from the Romanian girl… although regretfully, I know I won’t. I am a fierce hoarder, money and all the rest, although I’m happy to support a cause/person I believe in. (judgemental? HA!)

    I was just on my way to Ann’s, and prayers for April and her challenges. The faith of your readers leaves me in awe…

    Reply

    • Linda, We could all learn a lot from the Romanian girl, but I doubt I’m going to give up my lazy susan full of canned goods and my weekly grocery shopping trip any time soon. And I often wonder why I have two storage sheds and a spare bedroom full of stuff I don’t use. But the Lord is working on me regarding all the stuff I don’t need. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7070. Thank you, Linda

    May God bless you and continue to give you vision as you ‘connect the dots’.

    I’m off to explore. 😉

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7071. I love the focus of your Tuesday Three and thank Him with you for bringing them to you. 🙂 For some reason there has been a lot of focus on storms and trials in blog land. Your Tuesday Three will bless and help us all with what we face! 🙂
    Now, to go a reading!
    God bless you and thank you for thinking of us!

    Reply

    • Deb, Perhaps it’s because we all have experienced storms and trials and will again. But thankfully the Lord is with us through them all! Peace, and happy reading, Linda

      Reply

  7072. Linda, Thank you for sharing my post and for all of your prayers. Day by day we are healing from our recent loss. Prayers have been truly felt. Blessings, April

    Reply

    • April, I have to give the credit to God for your post being included in My Tuesday Three. He led me right to it! I am so glad to hear that you are all coming through this loss with God’s help. That has been my prayer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7073. You said, “Without Jesus, it is impossible to be completely real because a part of me would always be false.” I couldn’t help but be struck by that.

    I don’t want to sound boastful, but I have been called “real” on many occasions. I try not to hide behind a mask of piety, but admit my sinful humanity. If anything, my desire is to display before others a total dependence on God for any goodness they see.

    Still, there are secrets. Still, there are dark places in my life that I want no one to see. As much as I hate to admit it, there are some areas in my life that require “unreality.” Because of the position I am in as a pastor, I am constantly put on a pedestal, especially by those who think I have some special connection, like a hotline, to Jesus. If they only new my faults, many would falter – because they look at ME…ME! If they could only see Jesus! Your words remind me that those dark places that the Spirit still fights for are little pieces of Jesus that are being hid. Sadly, for some, that may be the part of Jesus they “really” need to see.

    Reply

    • I can relate to those “secrets” that only God knows, but because of certain relationships we keep hidden. I am on the Board of Elders at my church, and so I understand how others can put church leaders on a pedestal. I think, though, that it is important to step down from that pedestal, to refuse to be kept there, so that others can see that part of you (and me) that really struggles and must rely every moment of every day on the grace of Jesus.

      For me, it is with my son that I am more likely to hide my faults and my past sins. He looks to me and sees someone with a special connection to Jesus, and I fear that if he really knew what I’ve not shared, then he would falter. But I have been pondering lately that maybe, just maybe, it is those faults and Jesus’ response to those faults that he needs to see to help him mature in his faith. Maybe I am doing him a disservice by hiding those flaws that I need Jesus to fix, those false parts of me that I need Jesus to route out with His truth. And maybe, just maybe, it’s the same with the members of your congregation that you fear letting know the real you. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7074. There is so much truth in what you say here!
    No matter how much we achieve in life all is vain unless God is in control; unless we are in His perfect will.

    I think of Paul’s words in Philippians 3:10 “That I may KNOW HIM”
    Surely Paul already knew Him! Surely Paul knew Him better than most people! But Paul’s desire is to KNOW HIM.

    One day we will know Him and we will be like Him, but while we are here on earth, as His ambassadors, we need to constantly desire to know Him and to know His will and purpose for us. How can we do this? Only, as you say, by laying our whole selves on the altar, counting ourselves as dead, crucified with Christ.

    Some would say this is negative; this is a joyless life; but we KNOW that God only wants the very best for us; that the way of His choosing is the very best path for us and the most satisfying life. Oh that our mental acceptance of this fact would ALWAYS kick in to ensure we follow His will!

    Reply

    • Thank you for adding that bit about Paul. What a great illustration of one who, as you say, KNEW Jesus and yet still desired to know Him more. It is sad that so many forego the truly joyful and abundant life God has planned while striving after earthly happiness apart from God. I know I am not there yet, I don’t fully know God yet, but desiring to know Him has been such a blessing in my life. And I see a little more of Him each day. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7075. Your post is so timely for me! Those are all the things that I desire too. It’s easy for me to lay it all down and trust Him . . .in that moment. It’s harder for me to walk out that trust that He is working and doing those things that I desire . . .especially when hard things happen.
    God bless you and your desires for Him and more of Him.

    Reply

    • Deb, It is hard for me, too, to walk out that complete trust in His plan and purpose. But the more I truly rely on Him, the easier it seems to be. I just experienced that with My Tuesday Three that I’m working on for tomorrow. I spent more time stressing about whether I would find three related posts than it took Him to lead me right to them. And appropriately, they are all about trusting more in Him. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7076. Thank you, Linda

    This makes for very good conversation! Thanks for sharing 🙂

    You have me scratching my head and raising my eyebrows. (The wheels are turning over at an alarming rate! 🙂 )

    “We must let go of what we think we desire so that He might place in our hearts a greater desire to be a blessing in this world for His sake.”
    Hmmm… this resonates with me. 🙂 I remember reading a note that said “Hannah wanted a son, God wanted a prophet…” I am learning to ask Him for what He wants in what I think I need…. I may be looking for a job but He needs a sympathetic ear for someone who’s been praying for a Christian to work alongside them. I may want to avoid a medical procedure when He needs someone to share hope with a despondent doctor. Who knows? We probably never know until we get over yonder 🙂

    Being where He wants us to be

    I am praying your note as a prayer. Thanks for putting this out today.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, What a great comment! It is so true, we pray for one thing but His purpose will be accomplished by something entirely different. This weekend I think I saw the beginnings of His answer to one of my prayers for a loved one. The answer is not unfolding as I had thought it should or would, but I can see His hand in it nonetheless. I look forward to the day “we get over yonder” and can see the big picture of what God has done. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7077. Great to see this post! I get so excited when I hear about other people embracing God’s plan for their lives! I recently started a blog about my husband and I seeking God’s will, especially in regards to his music career. I’m going to share your post with him!

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I have found that God’s plan and purpose is so much more wonderful than what I could possibly think of on my own. That is great that you have started a blog. I’d love to check it out. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7079. Just what I need! Thank you for including the story of Daniel as well. For a week now, I am monitoring my food intake and my weight. For the first 5 days I lost 6.18lbs but gained 1.98lbs thereafter during the weekend. Rice and calorie count account for the difference. God help us on this 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, Wow! A net loss of 4 lbs is pretty good in just a week. I’ve lost about 8 lbs in 3 weeks. Now I need to start adding some more exercise – taking the dog for more walks. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7080. I hope the local bookstore carry this — would like to read it! Any gratitude book excites me and this one looks interesting because if a dog could give thanks how could we not? Thank you for sharing Linda 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, If your local bookstore doesn’t have it, there’s always Amazon.com! My friend and I actually used the dog and cat diaries as a skit to promote our women’s retreat. It was pretty funny. I played the cat. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7081. Thank you, Linda 🙂

    “Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth.
    Remember me in the light of your unfailing love,
    for you are merciful, O Lord.”
    I hear David’s heart in this one. I am thankful that He forgives fully and that He does not hold my sins against me anymore…

    Thanks again, Linda. I echo Deb.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, This is definitely one of David’s better, more heartfelt prayers / psalms. I am thankful that the Lord does forgive the rebellious sins of my youth, as well as those I have yet to commit. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7082. one of my recent twitter tweets was a thought that I had – something like, “if love of money is the root of all evil, then humility may just be the root of good.” I heart this psalm – I heart that you found it. My favorite line in it is this, ” 9 He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way.” — maybe if we want to be led a little more – we need to humble ourselves a little more. Thank you for this Linda – and God bless and keep you.

    Reply

    • Craig, I think you are right that humility is the root of all good. It is only in being humble that we learn to truly love and know what Divine love is. I like your favorite line, too. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7084. Thank you so much, Linda, for Psalm Sunday . . .for looking to find a psalm on mercy and humility. Those are two things that I always need and this psalm served as a prayer for me today too. 🙂
    God bless you and your family today!

    Reply

  7085. Linda, thank you for the great book review. I love books. I haven’t been getting or reading as many lately, but I love them all the same. And I love to get books to give as gifts too. This sounds like a great one for myself or to share! 🙂
    God bless you and your book reviews!

    Reply

  7088. Wonderful true words. Thanks.

    I’m sure you know the old definition:
    God’s MERCY is in NOT giving me what I deserve;
    God’s GRACE is GIVING me what I do NOT deserve.

    Reply

  7089. Thanks Linda,

    This is absolutely wonderful 🙂

    Everything we need is truly in the BIble ;).

    Thanks for sharing.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, There is so much wisdom in the Bible – afterall, fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. It always amazes me when some new study proves something we already knew from the Bible. Like the one I heard the other day that gossip can cause people to have a lower opinion of themselves and others. God said long ago that gossip is bad, but people needed a study to figure that out. Thanks for your wonderful comment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7090. It’s good for me to read this..just started on the ideal 1400/day…kept track first and with all the recent partying was getting about 2500/day. So now am starting fresh! Thanks for the inspiration!

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I’m so glad I could be an inspiration to you. I didn’t mention one other thing, and that is that I am allowing myself a treat at least once a week. The first week this included a piece of cheesecake at the Cheesecake Factory for my birthday, which was almost my whole day’s calories in a single dessert. But I don’t let getting off track once a week derail the overall eating plan. Keep up the good eating – every day is a new day! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7091. I really needed this more than a food recipe! It’s a recipe for better health. I keep doing the same things and hoping I’ll loose weight. And we know what they say about that . . .crazy! Thank you for sharing what is working for you. Please pray for me because I’m so bad and so weak!

    Reply

    • Deb, It really does just take thinking about food as a nutritious necessity, as fuel for the work God has placed before us, instead of it being our comfort in times of stress and boredom. When I read your comment, I immediately thought of this passage:

      But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

      You can eat healthier, with God’s help, and some tips from your friends. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting. There is a lot of wisdom in the Bible that we often overlook. I think this is one of those passages. It’s a great reminder of what we need to do if we want to feel good. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7093. When we know that God only wants the very best for us it seems ludicrous to say other than “Thy will be done” but stupid though we know it to be, we so do it all too often.

    A couple more CS Lewis quotes I like . . .

    >> The very man who has argued you down, will sometimes be found, years later, to have been influenced by what you said
    This is often an encouragement when we witness.

    >> Has this world been so kind to you that you should leave with regret? There are better things ahead than any we leave behind
    So true!

    Reply

    • Thanks for adding those additional quotes; I like those one, too. Lewis was such a wise man and I am thankful that he didn’t remain an atheist all his life, but that God called him to something greater. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7094. Hi Linda, Great post!
    I love what you said about holding grudges…”and keeps me apart”
    Lord, free me from holding grudges because I never want to be apart from You!
    Lord, have mercy on me! 🙂
    Bee well…and God bless you!

    Reply

    • Barbee, That is the stanza that I struggled with the most and I wasn’t sure I got it right. I’m so glad you understood exactly what I was trying to say. What a wonderful God we have who would have mercy on us, on me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7095. This was beautiful and so full of truth and encouragement. Especially on those days that I can’t pray as I should, speak as I should or even think as I should. So thankful with you for His mercy!
    God bless you as you continue to find wonderful ways to express your thanks to Him!

    Reply

  7096. Thank you, Linda

    This is beautiful (and timely!!!) My thanksgiving today is for the Holy Spirit!! Way cool!!! Thanks for sharing this poem – I will read it as part of my prayer tonight.

    God bless you, Linda. And may He answer the prayers of your heart.

    What Karla said. 🙂

    Thankful,
    ann

    Reply

    • Karla, Thank you for the encouragement! It is so interesting to me the directions the Lord has taken me with my Thankful Thursday posts. There is just so much to be thankful for, even when on the surface there might seem not to be. As long as the Lord is with me (and He has promised He will always be), then there is something to be thankful for. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7099. I think it is quite an accomplishment, to have posted every day for six months! I don’t think I could ever do that…kudos to you!!
    Thank you for inspiring me every single day…
    God bless 🙂
    Bee

    Reply

    • Barbee, I couldn’t do it without the Lord, but I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me! You could, too, if He called you to. 🙂 But not everyone is called to a daily blogging ministry. I’m so glad I can be an inspiration to you. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7100. Thank you, Linda

    It’s still beautiful and thanks for sharing it over here too 🙂

    It’s amazing how God works … Our church is doing a 31 day challenge using the book of Proverbs. Each day we read one chapter, listen for specific verse/verses He’s speaking through and write our thoughts on it. I said to myself, I should share this with you to see if you want to use this idea as part of your post-a-day challenge 🙂

    There’s much He has deposited in you. Thank you for continuing to share with us. I woke up this morning thinking about what you shared yesterday … I don’t like the idea of pushing Him to the point of ‘have thine own way’ but I know I’ve done it before. Thanks for pointing my thoughts in the searching direction. You have no idea how this has caused me to think 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, The Proverbs challenge sounds like a good one. I’m trying to get through Jeremiah right now, and there are some ideas I’ve had for posting based on what I’ve read there. I know that the weariness is just the enemy trying to slow me down, and I need to rest in Jesus and He will give me the strength and the ideas for what to write each day. Thank you for the encouragement! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7101. I love these quotes. The first one especially. Do you know where it came from? Is it from one of his books?

    Reply

    • Delilah, I pulled these off of http://www.brainyquotes.com, so I don’t know for sure what book they are from. I believe the first two are from “Mere Christianity,” but I’m not positive. I’m sure they are all from one of his books, though. I’ve read so many of his books I forget which ones had which quotes. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7102. Praying for you, Linda, as you do so much! No wonder He had me thinking about you posting everyday.
    This poem is so true of our wondering. There is so much that I don’t know or understand outside of He is mine and I am His.
    God bless you and keep you and give you rest!
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. I do love when the Holy Spirit impresses upon us to pray for someone or something and we don’t even know why. But if we are faithful to offer those prayers, He is faithful to answer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7103. Glad you repost it here Linda. Made me pause and realized that that could be me wondering. Thank you for taking the lead — to Him 🙂

    Reply

  7104. Thank you for sharing C.S. Lewis quotes Linda. I especially like the first one. Got to keep that in mind especially in my workplace where the diversity includes faith.

    Hmm what could be your next Tuesday Three? That makes it more exciting 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I am quite familiar with diversity in the workplace. It can be a good thing, but does pose challenges to remaining faithful to God’s call that we love our neighbors as ourselves. As for next week’s Tuesday Three, I’m excited to see what it is, too. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7105. I really identified with this post. I have spells where I am not able to post, too. I really liked this poem. It is so direct and earnest. Parts of it made me think of this passage:

    63It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

    64But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.

    65And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.

    66From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

    67Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?

    68Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

    69And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. John 6:63-69

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, Thank you for adding the passage from John. That is one of my favorites, though I find verse 66 to be so sad. And yet I choose to answer as Peter did; He will never leave me and I will never leave Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7106. Thy will be done, indeed. It’s hard to keep feet on the right path. Thanks for the reminder. I haven’t read C S Lewis for a while.

    Reply

    • Your comment reminded me of part of “The Cowboy Prayer” by Johnny Cash:

      Just keep an eye on all that’s done or said
      And right me sometimes when I turn aside
      And guide me on that long, dim trail ahead
      That stretched upward toward the great divide

      So glad He will right us when we get off the path as long as our attitude is that His will be done. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7107. Do they taste any different, Linda? I love that this is simple and basic and good!!! thank you and God bless you and your cooking!

    Reply

    • Deb, They do taste a little different on the Traeger, and now I have a new one to make them on! They were having a big sale at Costco. We decided there would be no eating out all summer if we got it. It’s soooo worth it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7108. I love books, and think that was a wonderful way to use your birthday money. 🙂 And then for God to use it right away in the book of Jeremiah? More wow! I love and am so encouraged when you write, Linda. Time after time I see Him at work, and I love that, as much as I love the part of Jeremiah being considered too young, being too shy, etc. I read about those OT prophets and am so amazed at what they did. Would I?
    God bless you and all that He asks you to do!

    Reply

  7109. Thanks, Linda

    This post goes way, way deep!!

    I want to believe I am in the ‘Thy Will Be Done’ category but only He knows for sure. If I say one thing with my mouth but my heart is saying something else, that’s a whole different ball-game!! (And the only one who will know the condition of my heart is Jehovah God…)

    I’m learning to match up my heart with His words. I’m learning that the more time I spend with Him is the more I will be like Him and the less likely I will ask for what I want “to consume upon my own lust”. I’m learning to trust Him even when all the signs say otherwise.

    CS Lewis is on my list of faves. Thanks for sharing … I like this mucho!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for the encouragement. I need it this week. I certainly didn’t feel like this was very deep, but I’m so glad it spoke to you. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7110. Thank you Linda, for doing three C.S. Lewis quotes! I just love how he thought and could convey truths about Christianity is such a wonderful way. So thankful that God gave us someone like him, to help us!
    I so appreciate your idea and heart behind the Tuesday Three posts . . .but it is a tough one. Praying with you for help with that! These three quotes were wonderful! Maybe for next Tuesday you could do three places that give out quotes. 🙂 Just trying to help!
    God bless you and your desire to please Him always!

    Reply

    • Deb, Themes were supposed to make this easier, but sometimes they make it harder. But suddenly I am reminded of a Billy Graham quote: “I believe God would have us go to hard places, not easy one.” He said that right before going on his first crusades to New York City. But perhaps I need to be a little more flexible with My Tuesday Three. It doesn’t have to be blog posts – it could be three of anything. I just love the number three as it reminds me of the Holy Trinity. Thanks for your prayers and encouragement. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7111. I am definitely in the “Thy will be done” category.
    And, the second quote of the three is my favorite, too.
    Thank you, Linda, for spending time on your Tuesday Three posts; I can well imagine the time it must take out of your busy schedule.
    Bee well, my friend!
    And I hope the pain and loss of your beloved pet is lessened a bit by now…

    Reply

    • Barbee, I just love pretty much anything C.S. Lewis wrote! He is my favorite Christian author, and it is so encouraging that he was an atheist for a long time but them came to know the Lord so well. Thank you for your concern about our loss of Tom. We were just talking about him last night and saying what a good cat he had been. We miss him, and will always remember him fondly. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7112. Thank you, Linda, for looking at this Psalm . I am so weird. I remember it finally dawning on me, after believing for a little while, that others didn’t think my faith was such a great thing. I sure did! ha!
    Theresa, I loved the love , mercy and understanding in your comment. Thank you, as someone who has lost loved ones.
    God bless you and your Psalm Sundays!
    p.s. Love that song by Chris Tomlin. Linda, if you get a chance, check out his stuff sometime. Don’t think I’ve heard a song of his I didn’t like. 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad you liked this one. I haven’t known a lot of people personally who ridiculed my faith, at least not to my face. I did have a boss once who was an atheist and would always try to convince me that my faith was unfounded. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7113. Wow Linda, I just loved this message! It is a hard-hitting meesage of truth. Isn’t it amazing that we, the dust of the earth, have the arrogance and audacity to try to dictate to God the way things should be done? I am always amazed that he allows us to live! We are nothing without him and yet sadly in this country we have thrown him out of our government, our schools and in some places, our churches.

    I loved the Elvis version of Amazing Grace. It should be playing in all of our hearts! Keep up the awesome kingdom work, Linda!

    Reply

    • Marianne, Thank you for the encouragement. Your comment is so true! The saddest part is when some churches don’t want God to be in control or to give Him the glory He is due. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7114. I loved Elvis’ version. Thank you! What a timeless hymn, Linda. Sometimes I think of that, how He inspires us and we just don’t know what all He is doing with what we do.
    How He works your posts out, inspires me too! I was thinking recently of how it’s June and you are still doing a post a day! Praise God!
    Praying for all of those who are at the bottom, and those not quite there yet, to not wait but reach out for His grace now.

    Reply

    • Oh, Deb, it’s so good to have you back! I love the encouragement of your comments. 🙂 I’ve just started feeling a bit weary of posting everyday, and you come along and remind me that I’m almost halfway through the year. And you remind me that Jesus is my strength to work out each post. I’m glad to hear you and Aubrey had a nice time pet sitting. I knew you would. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7115. When I became a Christian I suffered the barbs of ridicule and contempt from my own parents. At first, I kept my new-found faith to myself because I was afraid of their criticism, but as my love of the Lord grew, they couldn’t help but realize I was a strong Christian woman. My mother died many years ago and she never accepted my being a Christian. My father recently passed away–we had not spoken to each other in over five years.
    I know all I can do is pray for their souls, and trust that God is merciful.
    I had no idea this would come up while reading your post!
    Thanks for your wonderful blog, Linda…and thanks for letting me comment, too 🙂
    Bee well and God bless you…

    Reply

  7116. I found what Dr. Mears said about Jeremiah very interesting, so I got out my “Halley’s Bible Handbook NIV” published by Zondervan Publishing House in 2000.
    Here is how they characterized Jeremiah in the opening paragraph (page 392): “Jeremiah experienced the end of the monarchy, the final agony of the nation of Judah. He was a pathetic, lonely figure, who was God’s final appeal to the Holy City, which had become hopelessly and fanatically attached to idols. Jeremiah cried out that if only they would repent, God would save them from Babylon.”
    It must have been a rather difficult, and extremely humbling position for Jeremiah to be in, as he pleads with the people to turn from their wickedness.
    I am thankful you wrote about this, as I was able to gain a new perspective on the Prophet Jeremiah.
    God bless you for your ministry!
    Bee

    Reply

    • Barbee, Thank you for adding that from Halley’s! I love the description of Jeremiah as pathetic. It does seem to fit. I would not have wanted to be in his shoes. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7117. This is just wonderful, Linda.
    “Made the Way for us to return to You…”
    I am so thankful my road led to your blog–you are such an encouragement and write so beautifully…thank you 🙂
    God bless…

    Reply

    • Barbee, Thank you. 🙂 What a nice comment; you made me smile. I am just so happy that with this blog I finally have a place to use my God-given gift of writing for His glory. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7118. Thank you, Linda

    I’m so thankful that He looks out for us! I am reminded of ‘Our God’ by Chris Tomlin. The entire song speaks volumes but the vamp is a great reminder that our salvation is in Him.

    “And if our God is for us then who could ever stop us,
    And if our God is with us then what could stand against?
    And if our God is for us then who could ever stop us,
    And if our God is with us then what could stand against?
    Then what could stand against?”

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-6YdT1DEO8&feature=related

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7119. Thank you, Linda

    “I must remember that even when I do not think I am qualified for the task of encouraging someone, if He has called me to do it, He will give me the strength and wisdom necessary to accomplish it.”
    I have a project on my list that will take more out of me than I would normally give. Our Pastor mentioned something today that has me thinking very deeply … He says God’s asks are always greater than our ability. If we can do it without effort, then it’s not a biggie but if He stretches us beyond ourselves, then we have no choice but to allow Him to equip us for the task.

    Thanks for this beautiful post. I take it as confirmation of His word to me today.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I have no doubt the Lord will provide you the strength and wisdom you need for this task He has set before you. Then guess who will get all the glory? 🙂 Glad I could be an instrument of His confirmation this morning. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7120. I just got done reading about pride at Ben’s blog (Justified Freely)!
    I am glad you chose this Psalm. Sometimes the ones that ridicule us are ones we deeply love. Sometimes they are only trying to be playful, and I know that. In those cases I am not hurt just deeply concerned for them…it can be so painful to have lost loved ones.

    It is true, though that there are those who ridicule just to be mean. I am so thankful the Lord is merciful. 🙂

    Thank you for sharing this post.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  7121. I love Jeremiah, and sometimes I think he gets a bit overlooked as he is, as you say, a little more on the shy side than Isaiah or Paul. I didn’t know Johnny Cash also wrote – sounds intriguing! Hope you and your family are getting on ok, after losing your cat, xxchar48

    Reply

    • Char, There is a lot of great scripture in Jeremiah. It’s been a while since I read it last and am glad to rediscover what God did through him. As for Cash, other than his autobiography and music, I didn’t know he wrote either. Now I just have to find time to read “Man in White.” And thank you for your concern about us at our loss of Tom. We miss him a lot, but are getting along okay. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7122. Simply beautiful Linda. I’m holding a small purple cross and your poem makes it more special. The Way, the Truth, and the Life — the ultimate and perfect blessing! 🙂

    Reply

  7123. I haven’t seen yet a red and purple potatoes but my kiddos do love roasted baby potatoes (that’s how they call it). Will try the roasted pepper and onions 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I just saw the purple ones for the first time a few years ago. It’s kind of weird because they are purple all the way through! Enjoy the peppers and onions. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7124. Wonderful Linda. Thanks.
    While I wish I could sing in tune and wish I could write poetry I am more than pleased with and thankful for the gifts and talents God has given me, so I thank you for sharing YOUR gift here.
    Angela

    Reply

  7125. I don’t know what part prompted it, but sometime during reading this blog, the old hymn “O the bitter shame and sorrow” by Theodore Monod occupied my thoughts. The last line of each verse changes from “All of self and none of Thee” to “Some of self and some of Thee” to “Less of self and more of Thee” and finishes with “None of self and all of Thee”

    His grace overrides all and our submission, our obedience, is a response to the amazing grace which He constantly and generously bestows.

    Can we do other? Only when we exert our prideful “independence” . . . but our great God gives more grace and brings us back to Himself. What an amazing God!

    Reply

    • I have not heard that hymn, but just the parts you quoted, and the progression from “all of self” to “all of Thee”, make me think I would like it very much! Thank you for sharing it. I can see how it fits with this post wonderfully. What an amazing God, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • O the bitter shame and sorrow
        That a time could ever be
        When I let the Saviour’s pity
        Plead in vain and proudly answered
        “All of self and none of Thee!”

        Yet He found me; I beheld Him
        Bleeding on the accursed tree,
        Heard Him pray, ‘Forgive them Father’
        And my wistful heart said faintly,
        “Some of self, and some of Thee!”

        Day by day His tender mercy,
        Healing, helping, full and free,
        Sweet and strong, and ah! so patient,
        Brought me lower, while I whispered,
        “Less of self, and more of Thee!”

        Higher than the highest heavens,
        Deeper than the deepest sea,
        Lord, Thy love at last hath conquered,
        Grant me now my supplication:
        “None of self, and all of Thee!”

        Theodore Monod 1836-1921

  7126. Simply beautiful.
    As I read this, I couldn’t help but be reminded of the new age illusions out there (ubiquitous in the blogosphere and everywhere) that there are “many paths to God.”
    I recently read a lengthy debate on a FB comment thread. How apparent that the masses are deceived in believing that God is within us all. Not! Jesus is the ONLY way to the Father, and the only way to eternal life – but I’m preaching to the choir here 🙂

    Reply

    • Debra, Thank you. It is easy to write beautiful poetry when you have a beautiful subject to write about! I agree that many are deceived by the “tolerant” view that all religions are equally valid and that we can each find our own way to God. But if we have to find our own way, then we are all lost! Thankfully He has shown us the Way, He came to save us instead of making us come find Him. I’ve actually written several posts on relativism and tolerance, pointing people to the One and Only Way. You are, indeed, preaching to the choir (though I only sing in my car, the shower, and in the pews at church 😉 ) Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7127. Thank you, Linda

    So much popping up around us daily – it’s great to know that we have no reason to doubt Him or anything He says!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It is so wonderful not to doubt! I am always saddened by Christians who say they aren’t sure of where they will spend eternity. He has given us all we need to be sure, including His Holy Spirit. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7129. I am crying. There was something so precious about this . . .maybe because it pours out of your love for Him. And the way you combined His way, truth and life in that last stanza . . .touched me!
    God bless you even when your poems make me cry! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I have you to thank for inspiring me to even try to write poetry. Then I rely on Him to give me something to write, and the combination just seems to work! I’m sorry I made you cry, but I’m glad they weren’t tears of sorrow, but rather tears of joy! 🙂 Hope you had a relatively stress-free Thursday. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • It has been better today, for a Thursday . . .thank you!!! 🙂 We are going back for 3 days, to house sit for the family I clean for. There will be 4 dogs and 2 cats to care for. This will be challenging for Aubrey, but God told me to relax about it, so your comment about stress-free is a confirmation of sorts. ha!
        Oh and Linda . . .I may not be able to read or comment for a little while, just so you know that I’m okay . . .just away!

      • Deb, I will keep you in my prayers while you are house sitting. I bet the dogs and cats will love having you there! Thanks for letting me know you will be away. I so look forward to your comments, I just might have worried. 😉 But now I won’t. I’ll just picture you and Aubrey surrounded by a loving menagerie of pets! Peace, Linda

  7131. I loved that last sentence, Linda! And this reminded me about keeping my faith simple. . .keeping it about love. If I am wondering how to respond to someone or what to do . . .love is always the right answer. 🙂
    Thank you and God bless you as you keep listening and writing His words for us!

    Reply

  7132. Great quote and post. He is the Author and Finisher! Not only does He create the character He composes the story – IF we allow Him to. His graciousness gave us our free will, and our reward is His presence. Praise God.

    Reply

  7133. Our posts are here because of God’s leading — so wow!
    You explained my post better than I can — cool!
    Christ link us all together — awesome!

    You had me smiling Linda — thank you so much!
    And yes, Christ Is All! 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, It is pretty awesome how Christ can tie together three quite different posts, but it is because all of you had Christ as the center of what you write. Glad I could make you smile! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7134. Thanks for the mention. Theresa’s post from Makintosh was a great one. It is so amazing to me how that God forgives us when we sin. I have bumbled around and stumbled and fallen so many times I don’t want to think about it. Every time, I worry that maybe He done showing mercy, and every time I am wrong. His grace is sufficient, even for me! 🙂 Thanks!

    Reply

    • Ben, You are so welcome. I’m with you – I’ve bumbled and stumbled a bit myself, and still do some days. He always picks me back up again. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7135. God bless you, Linda, for sticking with this and following His directions! That fact alone is enough to blow me away! And then you include this awesome threesome. . . it just gets better.
    Thank you so much for highlighting all Christ is today . . .everything!

    Reply

  7136. Thank you, Linda
    I like the way you tie these posts together 🙂
    Heading over to Princess Rea’s
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7137. Thank you for mentioning my post. I just came from Bended Spoon’s blog. Now I I am Heading over to Ben’s blog…I love that account from the book of Daniel! 🙂

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  7138. This is such an emotional and well written post, so touching for Memorial Day. Thank you for helping us remember what it’s all about. And I hadn’t heard the Third Day song before .. .just perfect, Linda. God bless you and all that He asks you to do!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks. I knew I wanted to write a Memorial Day post today, but didn’t know what song to use (since it is Music Monday, had to have a song). So I looked through my iPod and this one just seemed to fit. I made me think of how one of our military must have felt, all alone in a foxhole, as night was closing in and feeling all alone. So glad Jesus was with them. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7139. This is the first time I saw a Mothers’ Day lilac — so lovely, your poem too! I love the imagery of ‘Opening their faces to the sun’ 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, That is not the official name for this lilac; I just call it that because it was my Mothers’ Day present about 12 years ago. 😉 But I have never seen another one like it either. Each flower is actually bigger than a regular lilac, which is cool, too. Welcome back from your vacation. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Rea. Thanks. It is with God’s help that I am a good example. I know I wasn’t much of one before I let Him in. But now He’s in charge, He is my hope, and that’s a good thing. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7141. Happy birthday, Linda. I wish you peace and joy with the knowledge that no good will God ever withhold from you. I leave you with this thought:
    All that has happened to you in this life as a believer, whether good or bad, is being used by Christ for your good to prepare you for royalty in a kingdom that will never end!

    Reply

  7142. Happy Birthday, Linda!

    “O Lord, you alone are my hope.
    I’ve trusted you, O Lord, from childhood.”
    (Except for the times when I was running my own show… 🙁 )

    Thanks for sharing this lovely passage with us. Hope the rest of your day is super fantastic! As my pastor would say ‘May the rest of your days be the best of your days!’

    Birthday blessings and more,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks! It’s been a great day hanging out with my guys. I know what you mean about the times of running our own show. I’ve tried to do a bit of that myself, but am glad to trust in Him as my hope now! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7143. Happy , happy birthday to you!!!! I love the psalm you found to go with your birthday. We can never praise Him enough. And you ARE such a great example for Him here in blog land, and I’m sure in the rest of your life too. God bless you and fill you with extra joy today as we all celebrate beautiful you!

    Reply

  7144. Hi Linda,

    Happy Birthday!!!! You were prayed for by many people in college, and God answers prayers on His own schedule,in His own time. Here you are now–23,000+ discreet bits of encouragement to believers (and maybe non-believers/questioners) in countries all over the world! I love the illustration of your life and the power of faithful prayers–and I give thanks for your life too!!

    Reply

    • Jill, How nice to hear from you! God does, indeed, have His own timing in answering prayers. I’ve come a long way since our college days. His love and grace amaze me, and I am honored to have Him use me as an encourament to others. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7146. HAPPY BIRTHDAY LINDA!
    While I cannot say that God was my hope from childhood, since I had no reason to believe there was such a person, I can wholeheartedly say that for the last almost 53 years of my almost 75 years, my loving heavenly Father has been my Guide and Counsellor, my Strength and Enabler, my Encourager and Challenger . . . my Everything! Without Him I am nothing.

    Reply

    • Thank you! It’s been a pretty nice day. When I was young, I didn’t realize God was my hope. But looking back I can see that He was with me all along; He was my hope even when I didn’t know it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • “Looking back” . . . that is the key. Looking back I can see that even though I didn’t know there was a God, He was there. So much happened in my early life and while people would think that God had no part in it, I KNOW He intervened so many times. Although there isn’t even one happy memory from childhood, I thank my God for EVERYTHING that happened to me, for enabling me to face them and triumph over them and for using those things to make me the person I am. To God be the glory: great things HE has done.

  7147. I’m sorry for your loss Linda. At least you know what happened. Our cat just never came home and we still wonder what happened.

    | > “It would be impossible for God to answer every prayer that someone or some pet not die”
    This is so true and can present minor problems when praying for elderly loved ones. Every person and every living thing WILL die. There has to come an end and we have to leave it to the One who knows everything to decide when that end shall be.

    Reply

    • I agree; I am so thankful that I do know what happened. Tom disappeared for 16 days about 3 years ago, trapped under our neighbor’s house, and that was much more stressful because we never knew if he was coming back or what had happened to him. I am thankful that he did not die all alone somewhere. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7149. That was so sudden, Linda. So hard when you are expecting them to live quite awhile longer. I’m so sorry. At the same time I’m blessed by your insight into your son’s experience going through this. Praying with you that God speak something special to his heart, to encourage and build his faith, even when he’s hurting.
    When my youngest daughter’s cat died of kidney disease, too soon for us, I was concerned at how she’d handle it. He was such a special boy for her, like a big marshmallow that let her dress him up, stroll him around, lay and sleep with him in her arms. She still misses him so much sometimes, but then talks to herself and says, “If I still had Sheba then I wouldn’t have gotten Celia from the shelter. And since she can’t see, no one else might have taken her.”
    God bless you, Linda, and comfort you at the loss of Tom.
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you so much. God is already working in this. My son and I had another conversation about Tom while walking the dog, and he said he was mad at God. I told him that was okay, there’s a whole book of Psalms where David was mad at God, and that God could handle it. Later when we got in the car to go somewhere the song “You Build Us Back” by the Newsboys came on, and he said it really spoke to him because even at times like this we know God builds us back. I think this was as much a lesson for me to let my son work out his own faith as much as anything else. And I know we’ll get another cat again someday, and he’ll still remember Tom and miss him, but love the new cat just as much. I so appreciate sharing the story of your daughter and her cats. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7150. We had a similar situation a couple of weeks ago. It was our grandson’s dog – and he felt he was too old to be upset. It is hard to explain, but thankfully we don’t have to take responsibility for the event, our dear Lord takes that onto his own shoulders. Prayers and thoughts from across the Pond.

    Reply

    • Thank you for the prayers and thoughts. This is actually the third pet my son has lost (at least that he remembers). I am thankful that he doesn’t think he’s too old to be upset about this, which may be in part because my husband was not afraid to show that he was upset. As my son said this morning, we’ll never have another cat like Tom. We do still have our dog Roman, and we may get another pet. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7152. Thank you, Linda

    This is a great post.

    Thank you for sharing even in your pain.So sorry you have to walk this path. I too will keep your family in prayer.

    I don’t always know what God is up to but I do know nothing catches Him off guard. Praying His leave over you and yours.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for your prayers. I don’t know what God is up to, either, but I do know that in the grand scheme of things He’s got a purpose for even this. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7153. My sympathies go out to you and your family, what a difficult loss.
    I love what you said about your son, and how you can’t just pass faith on to him “fully formed.” …But the way you live your life is a shining example to him! God bless you and may He ease the pain of your family’s loss.
    Bee

    Reply

  7154. Linda, I am crying over the loss of Tom too. So sorry for y’alls loss, but like you I am praying it will indeed be a marker in the faith walk of Benton.
    blessings to all of you…love ya…patty

    Reply

  7155. Linda,
    I couldn’t agree with you more. In fact, I have felt so strongly about this that, when frustrated with bible lessons that lifted up doctrines more than Jesus to share with folks, the Lord impressed me and through Him I wrote the “Lifting up Jesus” bible lessons which focus on JESUS, his salvation and His love.
    The 30 lessons have been published but I also offer them free on my website which has been translated into several languages now.
    http://www.liftingupjesus.net
    Blessings,
    Karen

    Reply

  7156. Beautiful! Thank you for brightening the morning.

    Here in Australia it will officially be winter in just four days but we are still enjoying, at least in Queensland (where our slogan is ‘beautiful one day and perfect the next’) what would be described as beautiful summer days by people from other parts of the world.

    We don’t get the dramatic Spring change here simply because we don’t have the stark winters. We are green and in bloom most of the year (though sometimes brown in the hot summers). However I remember the English springtime and the joy it brought to see the new blossoms again.

    The whole of creation praises our great God.

    Reply

    • Of all the places in the world to visit, Australia has long been at the top of my list. I once said to my son that I’d love to spend spring and summer here, and then spring and summer in Australia. That would be perfect. But I don’t know if I will ever get there. Here in the Pacific Northwest it doesn’t get too cold, not like Minnesota or New York, but it does rain, a lot! Glad you liked the poem and so happy I could brighten your morning. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • If ever you do come here, be sure to let me know. I wouldn’t advise a summer visit though, unless you enjoy high humidity. It is the ONLY thing I dislike about living here. I detest being WET all the time, with perspiration dripping from my head non-stop.

  7157. Linda, I loved this. I like how you show us how to substitute and still be okay. 🙂 We can do this cooking thing . . .as long as you keep posting us help on Friday. haha!
    God bless you and all the ways you help us!

    Reply

    • Deb, Substitutions in cooking are not as difficult as you might think. I do it all the time, even with my own recipes! Glad you liked this one. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, This one did turn out even better than I expected. I’m not a huge fan of asparagus – there are many vegetables I would prefer – but I could really learn to love it cooked this way. Enjoy! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7159. Thank you, Linda 🙂

    Beautiful … simply beautiful!!

    We’ve had rain, rain and more rain. Didn’t feel much like Spring at all but this lovely poem brightened the day.

    Thank you for sharing. God bless you as you remain rooted and grounded and blooming for Him!

    Blessed,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, We’ve had a lot more rain than usual, too. Yesterday it poured buckets, but when I wrote this we’d just had a nice day. One at a time is about all we seem to be getting, but the flowers make it okay. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7160. Oh Linda . . .thank you so much for this beautiful post. I love flowers. The pictures you took made me so happy just to see them. Lilacs are one of my favorites!!! And you did a wonderful poem with it too???? You did it again, gave me a sweet soft place to land today, in His beauty and grace. God bless you and keep you surrounded by His wonder.

    Reply

    • Deb, Lilacs are one of my favorites, too, and my mothers’ day lilac is so special to me. I’m glad I was able to give you a sweet soft place to land. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7161. What a beautiful display of color and splendor, and a gentle reminder of the life lessons God means to teach through creation and nature.
    Oh, that we would all bear such lovely fruit… and be the sweet fragrance of Christ we are called to be… and like the lilies of the field that still grow and bloom though they toil not or spin but bring Him glory by simply existing and being still….

    Reply

    • Debra, Thank you. All glory goes to the One and Only who created and inspired this beautiful display of color and splendor! I’m so glad you stopped by to enjoy His Flowers in Bloom. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7162. Thank you, Linda

    We know so much about Him yet there are so many who know so little…. O that they would come face to face with the Water of Life that He is!

    Blessings and thanks so much for sharing.
    ann

    Reply

  7163. My heart aches for those who are thirsty and dying for a drink of living water . . . and He’s right here. Praying for eyes to be open to Him more and more . . .that many come to drink freely and live!
    God bless you, Linda, and your desire to see lives given over to Him.

    Reply

    • Deb, You have such a wonderful heart! It is the heart of Christ who cares for those who are thirsty and don’t even know they don’t have to be. I echo your prayer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7164. His grace is what saves us! Thank you for this wonderful post, Linda.
    This sentence really speaks to me:
    “They are not bothered by the trials of this world because they have the power of the Holy Spirit to sustain their spiritual life.”
    This is what I will meditate on as I go to sleep tonight.
    God bless you and your ministry.
    Bee 🙂

    Reply

  7165. I often look to the sky and express the thought that He could come today . . . then dismiss the thought, because I know that “in such an hour as YOU THINK NOT the Son of Man comes”

    I thoroughly enjoy my life here and have no desire for it to end, but I LOOK for the day of my Saviour’s return with desire. The only thing that diminishes my desire is the thought of loved ones who don’t know the Saviour.

    Since I do not know the day or the hour, I continue to love and serve Him as He directs and “occupy till I come” [Luke 19:13] but still actively watch and wait.

    Reply

    • I agree that the only thing that diminishes my desire for His return is the thought of loved ones who don’t know Him, too. I will also continue to watch and wait, doing my best to follow Him, until He returns. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7166. If more of us would tell of the things the Lord does for us – in a natural, humble way – more people might SEE the living God and come to know Christ.

    As one who has been involved in children’s and youth ministry for several decades I believe it is the most important, or at least one of the most important, functions of the Church. Yes, it is primarily the parents’ responsibility to teach their children spiritually, but sadly, this isn’t the case in most families.

    We need to instill a Biblical worldview in our children long before their minds are corrupted by worldly teachings.

    Reply

    • This is so true – if only we would not be afraid do say “the Lord did this for me” in a humble way. Sometimes I am bold in sharing what He has done, other times not so much. But I’m definitely getting better than I used to be.

      As for parents’ responsibility to teach children spiritual things, I think that first the parents must understand, and that is not always the case. The church needs to offer more spiritual teaching than Sunday morning sermons. I think that sometimes the best parents can do is to bring their children to church and Sunday school so that they can learn of God that way.

      And we need to always remember to pray for our children. My son has a good Biblical foundation, and now that he is a teenager I spend much more time praying that God would strengthen his faith, hold tight to him, so that he doesn’t become lost in this world. Thanks for for your insightful comment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I certainly agree that the Church needs to offer children MUCH more spiritual teaching than just Church and Sunday School. In phoning pastors concerning a children’s ministry program I have been appalled to receive the response “Oh we’re not interested in CHILDREN! We concentrate on the adults and they’ll bring the children with them.”

        A very resounding Amen to that last para. I believe teenagers are the most vulnerable people in society. As they enter high school (here in Australia at least) they are faced with enormous pressures to conform to the world. The majority of high schoolers here soon disappear from Church services and activities. Those who continue on to university encounter even more pressure. Teenagers certainly need our prayers.

  7167. Sweet reminder to look for depth in advice from friends, rather than “handy” or “easy” advice from co-conspirators. I find this is not only a good way to choose advice but also a good way to choose the friends I spend the most time with — friends who will actually have a positive impact on my life.

    That’s what this means to me: “A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24

    Reply

  7168. All I know is that we are supposed to “occupy until He comes.” There are many things I would still like to do for Him, but I am ready for Him to come. Watching and waiting! 🙂

    Reply

    • Ben, I like that – “occupy until He comes.” I’m personally ready for Him to come back any time, but as I said in another comment I am thankful that He is patiently awaiting all who will come to Him to do so. I have friends and family who don’t know Him, and hope and pray they will find Him before He returns. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7169. Thank you, Linda, for taking the time to put this all together again . . .and including me in it. 🙂 Bee is such a wonderful new blog friend and Blue Print Baby’s poems are always inspired and inspiring. God bless you as you encourage us each day to go to His word and to keep blogging His word.
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, You knew I had to include you in My Tuesday Three at some point. 🙂 I simply love all your poems. And I love that you always start with a Bible verse, which would have made any one of your posts appropriate for this Tuesday Three. Thank you for all your encouragement and love. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Bee, You deserve the honor! You have such an encouraging story and I just hope I can send a few people your way to be blessed by your posts. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7171. Thanks, Linda

    Praying we will cling to the truth in His word.

    I can’t imagine how life will be for those who truly believed this would happen but I pray He would open their eyes before it’s too late. I remember when I walked away from Him. I thought I was happy but I wasn’t at all … I just didn’t know it.

    I am really praying that truth would be revealed to them and that they would turn to Him and allow Him to lead them. When the enemy of our souls is directing our ships we’re bound to run into problems. When our Father takes control, our situation has to change.

    He could come tonight, tomorrow or next year but you raised the all-important question … are we ready?

    Blessings and thanks,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Although I am ready for Jesus to return any time, part of me is glad He is patient and is waiting for those who don’t yet know Him to come to Him first. I echo your prayer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7172. I can’t listen right now, but I’ll be back later when I can . .. and just know that the songs will speak to me, so thank you and God bless!

    Reply

  7173. Thank you, Linda, for posting about this. I haven’t checked out this site or the story behind it all. I was so hoping that they would be humble and admit they made a mistake. I didn’t know until reading this that they are now reporting Jesus did come back. I’m so glad that we will know. He said we would. He told us what to look for . He won’t be just a little blip somewhere on the radar in a remote corner of the world.
    God bless you for sharing Jesus and the truth of Him. 🙂
    p.s. loved the song! Hadn’t heard it for awhile . . .

    Reply

    • Deb, Heather pointed out that the site I linked to is actually a hoax, so I don’t really know what Family Radio and Harold Camping’s position is on the rapture not happening on Saturday is. I think I need to add a caveat to my post now. But it is still true that when He returns, everyone will know it is Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7174. Hi Linda,

    Yes, I’m ready…. 🙂 …. I was dumbfounded to check this guy out the other day and discover that he owns millions in radio stations….. But, what is so troubling is the number of people who are taking the time and effort to listen to him every day — and then believe him, because they are not reading their Bibles….. They seem to have plenty of time to work for him and money to support him, but no time for the Lord — no time to read God’s real word…..

    Those sorts of “leanings” are sad — to say the least…. Let us honestly turn to the Lord, by opening up His word and reading our Bibles, in a way that honors God.

    Love, Margaret

    Reply

    • Margaret, So true – If people would just dust off their Bibles and read them, they would not be so easily deceived. What’s really astounding about this group is that they are still selling T-Shirts on their website and claiming that Jesus actually did come back on Saturday and that it was Judgement Day. Thanks for your encouragement for us to stay in God’s Word in a way that honors Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7175. I think you said it well..”I’m ready; are you?” The important thing we need to do is live our life to the fullest and for the glory of God.

    Reply

    • April, Yes, any day could be Judgment Day, either the final judgment or just my last day on this earth. My goal is to glorify Him and to continue to learn more about Jesus and grow in my faith. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7176. Thank you, Linda, so much. You are telling us not only His word, but also what He has done for you personally. With just how you came to choose this Psalm, and now here I read Margaret’s comment and April’s . . .so we see first hand how God works and we can pass it on. April’s comment has me in tears, but also prayer.
    God bless you and all that He is to you!

    Reply

    • Deb, God is just so awesome! In church this morning our pastor talked about how God created us for relationship, both with Him and with each other. One of the best ways we share relationship is when we share how our relationship with Him enriches our lives. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7177. Hi Linda,

    Every single one of us is supposed to share all that God has done with those around us….. Parents witness to children and children witness to parents….. All that helps us to remember and not get distracted when we are faced with the troubles of this world….. God has done marvelous things and we dare not forget any of them.

    There are so many things that vie for our attention, but the most important thing is the truths of God….. If we look only at the things of this world, we will quickly be enticed to forget the things of God….. Knowing this, God’s wisdom tells us to teach the truths of God….. God wants us to care for each other in love and truth.

    Love,
    Margaret

    Reply

    • Margaret, So very true! Thank you for adding this important reminder. And the things that God has done that we are to share are not just in the Bible; He works in our lives all the time and it is to Him we must give the glory for all our blessings. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7178. Linda, This was so timely. This past Friday, our family received some very bad news. My son’s best friend in High School who had taken many trips with us, was swimming this past Thursday on the coast of San Diego (stationed there-in the Marines) he got caught in a rip tide and could not swim out of it. Officials are still looking today. Then, this afternoon, I received a beautiful note from his younger brother. This note demonstrated a child being raised in grace, taught what grace is and what a true relationship is with Christ. Sometimes, people get so angry and bitter in such a situation but instead, I got the most beautiful testimony. Pray for the Yeckering family. Also, pray for my son. He not only lost a best buddy but a brother, too.
    Blessings, April

    Reply

    • April, Thank you for sharing this. I will certainly keep this family and yours in my prayers. It is true that so many turn away from God in times of tragedy, wanting to blame Him. But thankfully many turn to Him for comfort in times of loss in this broken and hurting world. What a blessing for this young man who wrote to you was taught of the grace of God by his parents. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7179. I loved this . . .:) I felt it was so like God to show you that, especially about Kenya, since your pastor’s wife and son and just went in March. Something about this has really lifted me tonight. He is sooo good, to use us and our offerings more than we can imagine.
    God bless you and yours this weekend Linda! love you!

    Reply

    • Derrick, Glad this will be of help to you. Another nice thing about it, once you figure out which ISP is you, you can set it to not log your own visits (which WordPress does automatically). Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7181. Thanks, Linda
    Technology has made the world so much smaller… We can reach so many this way.
    Double echo what Margaret said!
    Praying He’ll continue to bless you as you continue to share His love.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7182. Margaret ,above , really wrote my thoughts so well. I just want to echo them and say I love the thought of your writings going on mission trips and taking you right along! Nancy

    Reply

    • Nancy, It is pretty cool to see where my blog has been read, and makes me glad that I’ve always tried to use this forum to glorify God and share the love of Jesus! I do still want to go on a real one someday, though. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7183. Hi Linda,

    It is really amazing how technology allows us to be missionaries these days…. This is all stuff we would never have dreamed possible 20-30 years ago…. And yet, we can be missionaries in our own neighborhoods and families….. Thank you for the thoughts and information.

    Love, Margaret

    Reply

    • Margaret, We have a sign on the door as you leave our church that says “You are now entering the mission field.” You really don’t have to go far because there are lost and hurting people everywhere. But the revelation that I had been to Kenya with my blog I thought was worth sharing. I’ll bet you’ve been to Kenya, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7185. Thank you, Linda! I love chicken too and right now, I’m just oven baking some for Aubrey. She doesn’t like bbq sauce , but I can make some for me! 🙂 God bless you and help you with that Traeger!

    Reply

    • Deb, I think tomorrow I’m going to get another bottle of Salsa-Que at the Farmers’ Market. It’s hot and spicey! My hubby is off work today and tomorrow, so maybe he can get that Traeger fixed. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Yes, and it’s been a beautiful sunny day here today! I even ate lunch outside (leftover chicken strips and some raw veggies). I really need to get my Traeger fixed, though, so I can share some of my Traeger recipes with pictures, and to get me out of the kitchen for a change. 🙂 Have a blessed weekend! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7187. The last line
    “For you see, in the end,
    it is between you and God.
    It never was between you and them anyway”
    is by Mother Teressa. The first part seems to be modified a little bit

    This is the exact quote writter by her
    “”People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
    If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
    If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway.
    If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
    The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.
    Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway.
    For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.”

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and adding this. I don’t even remember where I first saw the poem and didn’t know it was from Mother Theresa. That’s cool! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7188. Linda . . .I think this is just so good, so good. And all that you included, with He is all that matters, sure helped me tonight to just be thankful. Will you post this at Idylls too? Please? ha! Thank you and God bless you and your thankful heart. And your poems!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad this poem helped you. I have “Your Name Is Beautiful” already submitted, but maybe I’ll submit this one after Eden’s posted the other. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7189. Christian living in a nutshell.
    We are not guaranteed a bed of roses. In fact, Jesus said we WOULD have tribulation, but the absolute certainty that He is with us, working out His purpose IN THE MIDST of everything, and the knowledge that He only desires the very best for us, gives us peace.
    Indeed, He is all that matters!
    Thanks for the reminder.

    Reply

    • I love your description of my poem: “Christian living in a nutshell.” I am blessed that you would say this. It is so encouraging to find other Christian bloggers who understand that He is the most important thing and that no matter what else happens, as long as we have Jesus everything will be just fine. As the old hymn says, “It is well with my soul.” Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7190. Hi Linda,

    I think this is why the early Christians rejoiced and praised God, even while their children were being eaten by the lions…. The audience could not understand the hope of those Christians….. They just knew that Jesus is all that really matters.

    Love,
    Margaret

    Reply

    • Margaret, I think you are right about that. So many people, including Christians, don’t understand verses like James 1:2 – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.” Or Paul when he wrote to the Thessalonians: “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thess. 5:18. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7191. Thank you, Linda

    You have no idea how you have just put things firmly into perspective. I can lose stuff ( I just lost something I really cherished), but at the end of the day, HE is ALL that matters!!

    God bless you. I am thankful for you and your poem and the blogger that inspired you and the gift that God gave you and the fact that His name remains blessed.

    Thankful yet,
    ann

    Reply

  7192. As I read this I thought to myself, “There is something about this poem that reminds me of Matthew 24.”. Then I got to the bottom and saw your scripture reference. 🙂

    I really like this poem.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, That is so cool that you were thinking of the very scripture He gave me to post at the end. I actually wrote the whole poem first, starting with just the losses and bad things, then realized that even when all is good He is all that matters and added the other verses. The scripture came last. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7193. Sin is still sin. We will still sin as long as we have the flesh to contend with, but it should never be our ambition to sin…or to call what God has called sin “an alternate lifestyle”. Great post.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  7195. 2 Corinthians 2:11 Lest satan should get advantage of us, for we are NOT IGNORANT of his devices.

    The devil IS a defeated foe when we allow Christ to be in control, but he is cunning and will use all manner of devices to creep in unawares and ensnare us. I believe one of his main weapons these days is camouflage. He is a master artist who paints dangerous and evil attractions and activities in such a way as to deceive many. We need to be on our guard at all times .

    Reply

  7196. Thank you, Linda!!

    Praying for your son!!

    Who would have thought the Easter message lived in a video game? Wow! 🙂 Please say thank you for letting us in on revelation.

    I tried for years to get to that cake. Moving target. Sometimes I felt it would have been great if Adam and Eve had caught on but put me in her shoes and the story would have been about Adam and Ann …. same ending 🙂

    God bless you for sharing this. Redemption is still available to those who choose to accept Him. Praying God’s direction will always be clear to this young mind and that he will live a life sold-out for our King. Keeping you and your beloved in prayer as you co-parent with Papa.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I like to think that if it had been me instead of Eve I wouldn’t have been fooled, but I know that is not true. If it was Adam and Linda, the story would have been the same, too. Thank you for the prayer for my son, his dad, and me. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7197. I really love analogies and seeing Jesus in whatever is going on around us. 🙂 This is a great one . . .and now you have to give your son another hug from me. 😉 Something that keeps coming up in my time listening to Jesus, is that there are lies that are so subtle that I can buy into them. I feel so extreme sometimes, but often can do little else other than read my bible and pray, take care of my family and home, and not listen to or watch or read much else. (except safe blogs, like yours. 😉 ) I have to stay really close to Him or I get to believing the lie about cake. And you know I love cake . . . love you too! God bless you and yours, Linda!

    Reply

    • Deb, There are many lies that are subtle and pervasive. Some have, as the apostles warned, even creeped into the church. I think your “extreme” option is a good one. Stay in the Word and prayer. Pray for wisdom and discernment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7198. Wonderful posts! Timely too! In bible study this morning we were sharing what advice you would give to the HS graduate. One of the things shared was to encourage them to stay true to the faith that they have been raised in and don’t buy all the lies that people will try to sell them when they enter the world on their own.
    Blessings to you my friend! April

    Reply

    • April, Thank you. That is definitely good advice for HS graduates. My son still has two more years of HS, but I’m praying already that the Lord will keep his faith strong. Now I just need to get him into God’s Word more. He’s not much of a reader and has hardly cracked the Bible we gave him for confirmation. I’m thinking of getting him the New Testament read by Johnny Cash on MP3 for his iPod. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7199. Linda,
    This was very well put and such a great comparison… Give your son a hug for seeing the similarity…. So many these days prefer to mar and destroy that message on the wall…. People see the message…. It’s even written in our conscience, but we choose to defy it…. We choose to believe a lie, even when we’re told outright that it’s a lie….. That is arrogance and defiance, which is a part of our sinful natures.

    We need our Savior, who has promised to save us from all this as we learn to lean on Him for all our needs…. Thank you for a great post.

    Margaret

    Reply

    • Margaret, Thanks. After I told my son I had posted this, he said there was another analogy in the game and that I should add it to the post, but I didn’t have time. The Ratman also includes arrows telling the player which way to go to escape. This, my son said, is like Jesus telling us the Way back to God. He’s a pretty bright kid and I pray his faith will stay strong. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7201. Thank you for the new links. I love your perspective on things and your writings are always encouraging. My latest post Renewal of the Soul and Heart had trouble when it published. My subscribers may have only gotten just the title. But, fortunately, I was able to restore it and it is up to share. The enemy TRIED to attack but he DID NOT AND WILL NOT win!
    http://aprilhawk.wordpress.com

    Reply

  7202. I am amazed at how He and you put this together. I wondered earlier how you would go with Jim’s blog post . . .more of other church persecutions? But no, something that I would never have come up with. Somehow I think that this is so important for us believers and for even non-believers to know, that this walk with Jesus is not for wimps. Christianity is not a crutch . I need to go read some more now, thanks to you! 🙂
    God bless you Linda, and your Tuesday Three Bloggers!

    Reply

    • Deb, I am amazed, too, because up until Saturday I was pretty determined to find other posts about church persecutions. But He had other plans. 🙂 Thank you for adding this. I love your summary: “this walk with Jesus is not for wimps. Christianity is not a crutch.” That is so true. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7203. Linda… your writing is as true to God’s Word and educational to me as always.

    I always enjoy Jim’s posts (although I am so fearful these days I might stay away from this one!) rather than put myself in the shoes of those who endured the Holocaust.

    Thank you for introducing me to two new writers, both of whom have a way with words. To the medical student, most of us who have endured depression, by God’s grace, survive.

    I’m with Ann on this one. Keep it simple, and pray.

    Reply

    • Linda, Thanks. I can understand your reluctance to read Jim’s post. It was difficult to read. I’m really enjoying this new theme, finding other bloggers to showcase. I don’t know if you read my post from three weeks ago, my Freshly Pressed rant that started it all, but now I’m really glad something so good came out of my frustration. Prayer, pure and simple, is a great place to start. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, I love your response! Prayer – communication with God about these troubles – is the best answer of all. It is where we must begin and end. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7206. Linda,
    You have presented so much here that many Christians don’t take the time to remember…. Maybe it has something to do with our self-centeredness and dealing with our own challenges…. All this is why we must keep looking to Jesus to show us the way, step-by-step….. And we need to remember others in prayer.

    Margaret

    Reply

    • Margaret, Thank you for the kind comment. Yes, our self-centeredness can often get in the way of seeing what is really important to Jesus. It reminds me of the old hymn that goes “I need Thee every hour in joy or pain. Come quickly and abide or life is in vain.” We truly must keep looking to Him so that we may see as He sees. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7208. God bless you, Linda, and your nomination for the Board of Elders. That is huge and I can’t think of anyone better suited for it. 🙂 (I’m not prejudice either. 😉 )
    I loved the song, hadn’t heard it, and the whole idea of being a go church. It has me thinking about Jesus going from town to town. He didn’t stay in one place and expect everyone to come to Him.
    God bless you and all the plans He has for you!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you. I will appreciate your prayers as I head into this important role. But I know the only reason I am well suited for the role is because I know that on my own I am not suited for it at all, which means I will have to continually rely on Jesus to sustain me. I’m glad you liked the song. It’s on MercyMe’s newest CD. I just loved how God worked out that evening so that the perfect song was playing when I got into the car. The lyrics really make me think about those in the world who are so much worse off than I am and what I can do to help. Thank you for the observation that Jesus was a “go” kinda guy, too! That’s perfect. I will have to share that with my friend who inspired this post. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7210. Words can never fully express the love of God for us. I think of the old hymn by Mary Shekleton 1827-83 “It passeth knowledge, that dear love of Thine” and especially of the last verse:
    And when my Jesus face to face I see,
    When at His lofty throne I bow the knee,
    Then of His love, in all its breadth and length,
    Its height and depth, its everlasting strength,
    My soul shall sing!

    Meanwhile, your “to the cross . . . and back” is an excellent expression.
    He died to save but He lives to keep and one day He is coming back for me.

    Reply

    • Thank you! When I heard Him say this to me, I thought it was an excellent expression, too. 🙂 I don’t know if I’ve heard that Mary Shekleton hymn, but it sounds like a good one. I appreciate you sharing the lyrics. I will have to go to YouTube and see if I can find it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7211. Linda . . .thank you so much for honoring your dad this way. I loved seeing a glimpse of him through how you described him drawing pictures for you girls on the albums and hearing the music that he liked to listen too. So glad you have these memories of him and that you shared them.
    Now . . .I’ve developed a problem. I can’t hear any of the videos. Not just yours, but any videos/music. 🙁 Can you think of anything for me to check to fix this? It’s not muted and my speakers are turned up. When I figure it out, I’ll have to come back and listen! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m sorry you weren’t able to listen. I’m not sure what the problem could be if it’s not muted speakers. I do know that on my computer there is both the icon to mute or turn up the speakers, and the button on the keyboard. They sometimes seem to act independently of one another. I will pray God helps you figure out the problem so you can once again enjoy all the wonderful videos posted on our favorite blogs. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Linda, you are a genius. 🙂 The speakers were turned down on the computer. My hubby was working on something the other day and must have done that. All better now! God sent me YOU! Okay . . .now to give a listen . . .yippee!

  7212. We all need to be “go” Christians in a “go” Church.

    I believe Church is primarily a place for Christians to gather together as one in Christ, to encourage one another and to worship Him and feed on His Word. MOST non-believers would feel extremely out of place in such an environment, but of course this is not always the case. Many have been saved after stumbling into a Church service. I believe the “come to Church” is more valid where we are talking about ministries within the Church, such as a ladies fellowship, a craft group, a mens shed, and especially childrens and teen ministries.

    As believers we need to “go” into our communities, showing the love of Christ and telling of His plans whenever we have opportunity. This is the responsibility (and enormous privilege) of every child of God. The “come” to Church will follow later if the Holy Spirit is at work convicting the person.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by. I love your parenthetical pointing out that it is not only our responsibility to go out into our communities and share the love of Christ, but it is indeed our privilege to do so. That He would entrust us with His love and His grace is sometimes beyond my comprehension, but I am thankful that He has. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Derrick, Thank you for this prayer. We are a relatively new church and we know God has great things in store for us to do. My prayer is that we are always open to His direction. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7214. Thank you, Linda

    I have to take this as confirmation!

    Our last rehearsal wa more of a sharing worship session than anything … one of the things that echoed in the room, was the need to go and share. We’ve all heard the story countless times yet there are those who have never heard. How are we being His hands and feet if we just sit around and listen in smug satisfaction while a hurting woe is on it’s way to certain destruction….

    God bless you for sharing this with is today. Praying He will order your steps. Praying also that He will open doors to avenues for service and that we will trust Him enough to be his hands and feet…

    Available,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, We had a guest speaker at church yesterday, a young man who recently returned from a mission trip to Indonesia. He gave a wonderful sermon about being the hands and feet of Christ, of just being available for whatever God might want us to do. And we don’t have to go half way around the world to do it. We just need to go outside the walls of the church and all around us are those who need the love of Christ. I echo your wonderful prayers for all of His people to trust enough to walk through the doors that He opens. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7215. So many Christians forget what you have just mentioned. It takes more than sitting down each week or reading the Bible or even prayer. There has to be an action with it too!

    Reply

  7216. “Only good works that are done out of appreciation for the love and grace of Jesus as revealed on the cross are worthwhile.”

    What a great reminder! This was a great post. 🙂

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  7217. Do you understand the 4th Cup?

    After the beginning of Jesus’ Last Passover Supper (Seder) Judas Iscariot left to do what he had to do. The twelve left in the room were at the point where the second of four traditional cups was about to be drunk.

    (The first is at the beginning of the Seder meal.) Jesus took the cup and gave thanks and gave it to them and said, “Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the Kingdom of God comes.”

    More of the lamb meal was consumed. During that He took a loaf of unleavened bread, gave thanks, broke it and gave it to His disciples saying, “This IS my body given for you; do this to recall me.” (“Recall” is a better translation of the Greek “anamnesis” than “remember”.)

    After the supper He took the third cup saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This IS my blood of the NEW and everlasting covenant which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”

    A hymn was sung, which is a combination of several psalms called The Great Hallel, and they went out to the Mount of Olives.

    What happened? The Passover ceremony and ritual was not complete. There was no fourth cup. There was no announcement that it was finished. Could it be that Jesus was so upset with what He knew was about to happen that He forgot? Doubtful!

    Not only Jesus, but also the 11 others had participated in the Passover Seder every year of their lives. No, this was done on purpose. The last supper of Jesus was not over.

    On the Mount of Olives, in the Garden of Gethsemane, the disciples slept while Jesus prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will but yours be done.”

    He prayed that three times. Then Jesus was arrested, illegally put on trial by the Sanhedrin, then by Pontius Pilate, sentenced and crucified.

    While on the cross He wept. Jesus, who was in excruciating agony, was so merciful that He prayed for the forgiveness of His executioners. He was offered some wine with a pain killer, myrrh, in it. He refused it.

    “Later, knowing that all was now complete, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled and the kingdom established, Jesus said, ‘I am thirsty.‘” A man dipped a sponge into sour wine; he placed it on a hyssop branch and lifted it up to Jesus lips.

    He drank. (We recall that it was the hyssop branch which was used to paint lambs blood around the Hebrew’s door for the Passover of the angel of death.)

    It was then that Jesus said, “It is finished.” He then bowed His head and gave up the spirit to His Father.

    The fourth cup now represented the lamb’s blood of the first Passover, a saving signal to the angel of death.

    The Lamb of God was now sacrificed. The last Passover supper of Jesus Christ was now complete with the fourth cup. It was finished.

    The tie in with the Passover is unmistakable.

    The Lamb of God was sacrifice and death was about to be passed over come Easter day.

    The promise of eternal life for many was about to be fulfilled.

    Reply

    • Thank you for stopping by and leaving such an informative comment. I was aware that Jesus, as the Lamb of God, was the final Passover lamb, sacrified for the sins of all, once for all. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7218. I love your testimony, Ann! 🙂
    Linda . . .there is so much in this Psalm. It makes me sad to see us so concerned about making money, making a living . . .and yet I understand. Somehow it seems we just have gotten things so twisted . . .have developed a society so apart from Him.
    The end of this Psalm shows us God’s heart, what’s important to Him. 🙂 God bless you and thank you for our Psalm today!

    Reply

    • Deb, It does seem that our society lives so apart from Him. So many relegate God to Sunday only, but He wants to be a part of our lives every hour of every day. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7219. Thanks, Linda 🙂

    “2 It is useless for you to work so hard
    from early morning until late at night,
    anxiously working for food to eat;
    for God gives rest to his loved ones.”
    This verse makes me smile. I used to work long, long hours that would drain the life out of me. I would be out at the crack of dawn and return at nights. God gave me deliverance and for that I am totally grateful! I don’t work those hours anymore and still He provides for us – enough and to share! How amazing is that?!
    I am learning to truly rest in Him. 😉

    Blessings and thanks again for sharing.

    Trusting,
    ann

    Reply

  7221. This looks perfect . . .not too bad for us, but bad enough to make us feel good. Did that make sense? haha! God bless you and thank you for sharing! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I know exactly what you mean! I still have some of the angel food cake; I think I need to get some more berries at the store tomorrow. 😉 We’re supposed to have lots of fruit servings, aren’t we? Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7222. Linda . . .you are so honest and I felt this one. I know He has a way of showing these things so that it gets us back on track, but doesn’t crush us. So, I’m thankful that He is encouraging you too!
    I can think of a couple of things, right off the bat. Once, I was so frustrated that I had no time alone, with Him. But really . . .I was more into just having time alone. (and that’s is not a bad thing . . .but God knew my heart and my situation!) So He showed me that I worshiped my time alone more than I worshiped Him. And I no longer had times alone, but He worked out a way for me to be with Him and worship.
    Another time while Aubrey was in school, we were really struggling to have her needs understood. So I struggled before God about it too . . .oh poor misunderstood me. And Jesus told me that it was okay to want to be understood, but it was going to be more helpful for others to understand about Him. Well, that quieted me down. ha!
    God bless you and yours today . . .and the work of your hands!

    Reply

    • Deb, When we open our hearts and minds to His lessons, they come in so many little ways that one would never expect. I sometimes wonder how many lessons I missed before I started paying attention! Thank you for sharing some of the lessons He has brought to you in the ordinary things. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7223. Yummy! I am blessed because I live close to strawberry fields and can buy them freshly picked…this recipe makes me want to get some today! Thanks for sharing 🙂

    Reply

    • Bee, Today is the first day of the Saturday Farmers’ Market in my town, and that it where I get my fresh berries all summer, but I doubt they have berries yet. Hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we did. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7224. With 4 kiddos it’s impossible to maintain cleanliness and orderliness beyond 10 minutes! I remind myself that it too shall pass though my heart doesn’t want to. But not with confession — I am not wasting my opportunity to be cleansed by the Holy Cleanser 🙂

    Reply

  7227. Hi Linda,

    What a telling video!…. The ratio of people found with Christ in their hearts in comparison to those who just shrug their shoulders and walk on shows how we need to share our joy more often — hopefully, letting others know that they can have a reason to rejoice….. We can temporarily enjoy peanut butter, but knowing the joy of Christ is eternal — a whole different kind of joy with real value.

    Thank you for sharing this.

    Love,
    Margaret

    Reply

    • Margaret, I’m glad you liked the video. The one that really gets me is the woman who says, “What makes you think I’m rejoicing?” Breaks my heart. But you are right that we need to share His joy. We need to rejoice in all circumstances (not necessarily because of, but in the midst of, all circumstances). If we don’t handle challenges any differently than the rest of the world, what kind of witness are we being? I’ve been thinking the past few days about Billy Graham being in the hospital with pneumonia. I bet in spite of his illness he is rejoicing and being a wonderful witness to all the doctors and nurses he encounters along the way. Thanks for stopping by. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7228. Thanks, Linda

    This is a sure summer hit! Nice pictures too.

    Interesting naming concepts. I’ll further complicate it with Sunday-Berry-Pudding-Volcano-Delight! 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I love that name! I’m sure we will be having this again this summer, too. It’s sooooo easy to make, and healthier than most of my dessert recipes. I even used 2% milk for the pudding, so there is very little fat. Mmmmm. Now I’m making myself hungry. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7230. I can’t decide which one I like the most! So I’m just going to love them all! They are all beautiful and all about our beautiful Jesus!
    God bless you and thank you Linda, for helping us be thankful too!

    Reply

  7231. Linda,
    I just came to your blog to check it out. In reading about you I found it ironic that you are a “recovering” lawyer. HA! As I start working on my first book this year (I hope I can get it published), feel free to share your insights (comments) from a legal perspective.

    The Recovering Legalist, Anthony

    Reply

    • Anthony, Thanks for stopping by. I never really thought about it this way before, but perhaps the reason I didn’t like practicing law is because I am a bit of a “recovering legalist” myself. I find the freedom of Grace that has developed in me a desire to please God so much better than following rules. I will certainly be back to your site to read more. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7232. Thank you, Linda 🙂

    “We must be faithful citizens of Heaven, and we show our faithfulness by caring for those things and those people God has put us in charge of in this life and on this earth.”

    Amen echo!!!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Between you and LeRoy, you have me singing, “Aaaaamen, aaaaamen, aaaamen, amen, amen. All together now.” I don’t know if you’ll know the tune, but I hope so. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7233. Linda, this was so inspirational! 🙂 Thank you for driving me/us on to do all we can, while we can. You spoken something that God has echoed to me in others posts too . . .that there are those He has given us. Am I doing my best taking care of what He has asked me too, my surroundings, my community, my family, friends and neighbors? Also, 20 years or so ago, though I knew Jesus, if you had asked me if I was ready to go . . .I wouldn’t have been. I knew in my heart I wasn’t pulling my weight, so to speak. I wasn’t being responsible with what He had given me. Now, now it would be okay. I know I’m seeking Him, listening and obeying what He asks me to do.
    Thank you, Linda, and God bless you!

    Reply

  7234. Thanks, Linda, I think this is such a wonderful thing you are doing 🙂
    I am grateful for the gracious review you gave my own post, but I also appreciate how you have tied in three different related posts that give three perspectives on similar themes. It blesses me to catch these glimpses of the “big picture” that God is speaking through the unity of the Spirit 🙂

    Reply

    • Loren, Thank you for such a nice comment. I’m just happy that God is now using my rant of two weeks ago for His glory, and am so excited about what He will draw me to for each week’s post. I doubt that without the leading of the Holy Spirit I would have been able to tie these three posts together so well. In truth, I believe He did the tying before any of them were even written, and then showed me the connection. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7236. I cannot tell you how much this post blessed me. The are the foundational truths that I believe, but for some reason forget that they apply to all believers and not just me…especially the depraved part. For some reason the enemy is still sometimes able to trick me with the lie that my sins are uglier than everyone else’s.

    I was just about to go and have some time in prayer, and saw the link to this post on facebook. I am so glad I read it. It reminds me of the words to one of the verses to one of my favorite hymns:

    “I love to tell the story; ’tis pleasant to repeat
    What seems, each time I tell it, more wonderfully sweet.
    I love to tell the story, for some have never heard
    The message of salvation from God’s own holy Word.”

    Linda, thank you so much writing this post.

    God bless you,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, I’m so glad this was a blessing to you. Thank you for adding the lyrics to that hymn. I love that one, too. And I love to tell the story of God’s salvation. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7237. I know these guys! ha! Chris’s is a little newer to me and I haven’t read that post, so will go . .. yippee!
    Thank you and God bless you, Linda. You are doing such a wonderful thing here on Tuesdays. Love it. Love you. 🙂

    Reply

    • Chris, You’re welcome. I think I will have that photo of your daughter in my mind for a long time, and hopefully it will remind me to always be willing to open the door and let God in. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Bryan, Thank you. I am excited about this new Tuesday theme and looking forward to all the wonderful Christian blogs and posts God leads me to share. Also, thanks for adding me to your blogroll. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Linda,

      I read. I pondered and I gave thanks. I have gone back and read some more and I marvel at the Awesome Wonder that we serve. (I have not commented yet, but I will.)

      Thank you for sharing.

      God bless you.
      ann

      Reply

  7241. 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂
    I have to get me some Audio Adrenaline. haha!
    LOVED THIS.
    Loved some of the responses too. “what makes you think I’m rejoicing?”
    Thank you Linda, for helping me remember to rejoice always! and then some more!
    love you,
    deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Both of the songs I posted today are on the Lift CD. It’s one of my favorites of theirs. I still think it’s sad that they aren’t together anymore because the lead singer had throat problems of some sort and couldn’t sing any more! Listening to their uplifing music really does remind me that I want to REJOICE! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7242. Thank you, Linda

    “Our aim should be to draw people to Jesus Himself. Once drawn to Him, He will do the work necessary to inspire His believers to gift-based ministry and need-oriented evangelism. He must be the center of all that the church does and teaches. “
    Funny … I was singing an old song in my head as I read your post. It’s called “Lift Jesus High” and there’s a line that goes “He said if I, be lifted high, I will draw all men unto Me”. … If He’s been saying this for eons, why are we not doing it?
    Here we go with the basket weaving classes again 🙁 Praying we’ll really sit up and take notice of what’s important to Him. Thank you Linda. Thanks for reminding us of what we need to do.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, He has been telling us for eons what is the right thing to do; I think it is so hard for some people to do it because they want some control over their own salvation so they can get part of the credit. People find it hard to give God all the credit and all the glory. I admit sometimes I find it hard, too, but it is what He calls us to do. So to Him be the glory today for helping His Church “sit up and take notice of what’s important to Him.” Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7243. Love the song! 🙂 And thank you for talking about growing church membership, and what you found during that process. Not getting to go to an actual church any more . . .I miss that. I never was in a leadership position or thought a great deal about all the ins and outs of keeping a church going. Guess I kind of thought it was God that kept people coming to Him, and the Holy Spirit that moved in services to draw the unsaved. If a church’s membership was dropping, I’d probably consider some serious time in prayer seeking Him! ha! See why I wasn’t in leadership? 🙂 I loved how you understood that it has to be about Him, about lifting His name first.
    God bless you as you praise and lift His beautiful name!

    Reply

    • Deb, It sounds like you would be great in church leadership to me. You understand that it is God who will draw people to Jesus, and your first solution is prayer. Too many church leaders try to do it all on their own these days. And I’m glad you liked the song. This is one of my favorite Audio Adrenaline songs. It also has me thinking of a poem for this Thursday. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7248. God bless you and many wishes for you a sweet Mother’s Day. Thank you for thinking of moms everywhere and posting such a beautiful Psalm. Did the company time go well? Pray so!
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, We had a wonderful visit with our company. They are still here today and we’re looking forward to a great day. Hope you had a terrific Mothers’ Day! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7249. Thanks Linda,

    “From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets,
    the name of the LORD is to be praised.”
    Praising alongside you 🙂

    Hope you have a restful and relaxing Mother’s Day.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7250. Thanks, Linda

    I’m way behind in blogging this week. We’ve been doing a bit of renovating and besides not having access to my computer, I just have not had the time.

    I read Margaret’s post yesterday http://123hallelujah.wordpress.com/2011/05/07/those-who-dwell-in-thy-house/ and commented how timely it was. I’m reading yours today and thinking that God is really trying to get my attention!

    Thanks for the reminders. Praying I’ll put as much effort into ‘heart-cleaning’ as I put into house cleaning. 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, We did some renovating starting a little over two years ago. Everything but two bedrooms and a bathroor was gutted. I know how time consuming that can be. I will have to check out Margaret’s post. I don’t know if I’ve ever been to her blog. Thanks for the link. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7251. I like this post. 🙂 I go to clean someone’s house each week, but I’m not quite as diligent with my own. haha! Hey, we try. But, when it comes to confessing, I want to be diligent and do more than just try. I usually confess throughout the day as each sin comes up. It may be just an attitude or thought, but if I confess it then and there, Jesus helps me and keeps it from being acted on. It happened just today, in fact. Had to keep confessing and asking for forgiveness. But then at crunch time . . .He had me and all that stuff I thought I’d say didn’t get said. God’s so good. And I want to be good at confessing my sins! Okay, and maybe at cleaning house too. 😉
    love you!

    Reply

  7252. Thanks, Linda

    I’m a lover of wild rice! 🙂

    Question: – Could I dry roast the burger instead of frying? (thanks)

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I don’t know how to dry roast burger, but any method that gets it cooked and crumbly would work. Once cooked, you could then add it to the skillet and proceed with the recipe after the grease-removal step. Let me know how it turns out. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7253. Thank you so much for supplying us with recipes. I did frozen pizza for my hubby tonight. ha! Not so good, eh? But, Aub and I have the flu or something, so he doesn’t realize it, but was doing good to get that. 🙂
    God bless you and all the ways you encourage us! love you!

    Reply

  7254. Thank you, Linda

    Children are truly a blessing!!

    May God continue to lead and guide us as we give of ourselves in shaping their lives.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7255. Oh Linda. . .could you give him a hug for me? 🙂 Loved the poem. So special because it’s all about him and Him. And thank you for sharing those stories. Now you have me remembering some special times of our own and that is a blessing. God bless you and your thankful heart. . .and your son too!

    Reply

    • Deb, I will do that when I get home! I showed him the poem when I was writing it the other night and he liked it, but had forgotten about his prayer from the Third Day song. I think it is good for us mom’s to remember these things, and when the time is right reminding our kids of the wonderful little details only a mom would pay attention to. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7256. When we see young Christians, us ‘older’ Christians have the responsibility to mentor them and set the example. Also, we have to remind ourselves that God is molding them little by little and with time they grow stronger in their faith and become strong witnesses for Christ.
    Blessings to you today! Have a wonderful weekend! April

    Reply

    • April, I agree, and it’s not just with our kids that we have this responsibility. It is with all in the body of Christ whom the Holy Spirit leads us to mentor. And sometimes “young Christians” can be older than us in age if they are newer in their faith they still need to see us set an example. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, You can’t imagine the smile that has been on my face all week as I see the connections that occurred because of this post! It has been wonderful to see what God has done with my sharing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7258. I love how God got you to go ahead and read 2 Chronicles. And then showed you something as great as this. 🙂 God bless you and all that He has you share with everyone!

    Reply

  7259. Thank you for the Proverbs verse you posted on Elizabeth’s blog. That is exactly what I was trying to express when discussing my own feelings. Also, I can see why you were proud of your son. My daughter expressed the same thoughts. Out of the mouths of babes….

    Reply

    • You’re welcome. It was one that someone posted in a comment to a friend’s Facebook post about the issue. I was happy to have someone point the verse out to me, and thought it was worth sharing. His Word always provides the best answers! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7261. I’m so excited about this! Thank you so much for the chance to read other great blogs and poems and meet more special people! Yay! Now, off to check them all out! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love your excitement! Since I was doing poems, I thought about including one of yours, but they are all so great, I couldn’t pick a favorite. Besides, I think I’ve linked to your blog before. But don’t be surprised if some week one of your posts ends up being featured, too! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7262. Thanks Linda,

    I’ve been running back and forth and making tracks 🙂

    I appreciate your sharing these with us. God bless you!!!

    Finding community,
    ann

    Reply

    • April, You are welcome! I love the thought of expanding the Christian blogging community and bringing fellow bloggers together. Who knows, one of your posts might be features in a future “Tuesday Three.” 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7265. My Tuesday “Three” is perfect…represents “Father, Son and Holy Spirit.”
    Thanks for your dedication in committing to this. I will be following your posts. God bless you! Bee

    Reply

  7266. This was really good. We just have to let it all go, and forgive. I am so thankful that we can go to the Lord and ask Him to help us.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, Yes, it is wonderful that we can go to Him for help in forgiving and loving. I was doing that a bit last week! So glad He is faithful if we just ask for help. I hope all is well down your way. I’ve been thinking about you and praying for you with all the storms. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7267. You are so right…McCann’s oatmeal is wonderful. I am going to try this recipe. By the way, don’t know if you live near a Trader Joe’s, but in the freezer section (near the waffles…yum) they have cooked steel-cut oatmeal in one-portion sizes. I would think all you have to do is defrost, then use in your recipe. Thanks for sharing, Linda!

    Reply

    • I do have a Trader Joe’s near me, though I don’t shop there often. I may have to go look for their frozen oatmeal, though. The only difference would be that you wouldn’t get the cooked apple in the oatmeal, which adds a nice flavor to it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7268. Thanks, Linda

    “As Christ dwells in us, He gives us the power to show His Divine Love to those around us as the love story continues for the furtherance of His Kingdom.”
    I used to sing a (secular) song in which the writer expressed his desire to know what love is. I didn’t pay much attention to the passion or the lyrics, it was a feel good song so I sang along.
    When I entered into relationship with Christ, I started to experience a different kind of love. It was just the strangest thing. What I thought was love all along paled in comparison to what He showed me.

    Thank you for this wonderful reminder today. It’s great to know that love does not stand on it’s own. If we truly love, we ought to live it.

    This is a wonderful post, Linda. Praying we’ll do more than just lip service in the business of loving.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, His love is indeed different than any other love I encountered before I knew Him! Thank you for the prayer. I want to live out His love and not just pay it lip service, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7269. This post really spoke to me, Linda. Thank you so much. It’s the basic thing we know . . .to love, to forgive, to not expect sorry or love or forgiveness in return or first. Living that out sometimes looks differently than reading it and knowing it in my head. Living it must come from the Holy Spirit.
    I wrote something yesterday in the comments here and this was like God’s reminder to me of how to go forward in it. I needed reminded that someone who doesn’t know Him can only act out of what they do know . . .self preservation.
    And I just read this in a little booklet on prayer:
    “What would happen if we followed literally Jesus’ command to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us? How would it affect the reputation of Christians in [our country] if we became known not for our access to the [parliament] but for our access to heaven on behalf of those who strenuously, even violently, disagree with us?”
    Philip Yancey
    God bless you as He loves through you today!
    p.s. smiling that the little poem I sent into to Idylls is up today, in combination with your post, thanks to Him. 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, The circumstance that prompted this post was a lesson of this very thing for me: “someone who doesn’t know Him can only act out of what they do know . . .self preservation.” I have a good friend who once said that all actions stem from either love or fear. May our actions towards those who know only fear show them that there is an alternative, and that is the Divine Love of Christ. It is difficult to live this out, though, day in and day out, because I think sometimes even we act out of fear, at least I know I do. But that fear should never stop us from praying for them, just as your wonderful Philip Yancey quote says. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7270. Our God is so faithful! He is our protector! He is our guide! We just have to place all our trust in Him! Wonderful post. Have a good week!

    Reply

  7271. Linda,
    His marvelous love and grace says it all. Wonderful post. May you feel His peace and love as you journey in the week ahead. Blessings, April

    Reply

  7272. Linda –
    I really enjoyed this post. I so often need to be reminded to love and forgive. To pray for those who are “my enemies.” This is ever so appropriate today in light of the news, too. Thank you, Elizabeth

    Reply

    • Elizabeth, When I scheduled this post I had no idea what the big news of the day would be, but you are right. It is an appropriate post under the circumstances. I wonder what would happen if Christians everywhere prayed for our terrorist enemies instead of hating them? Perhaps even the heard of Osama Bin Laden could have been changed. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7273. Thanks, Linda
    (I know that kinda week!!)

    Thankful that He makes provisions for the low moments.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, We all have weeks like that. I think if you never encounter trials then you probably aren’t accomplishing much for the Lord, because if you (and I don’t mean you personally, I mean all of us) were accomplishing His work, then the devil would never let you have a moments peace. 😉 Thankfully the peace of Christ is always just a prayer away. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7274. This fit with my week too, Linda! It’s kind of tricky sometimes, when the one you love and who is close to you also tries to hurt you and plans evil for you. I can pray for protection . . .but also for deliverance for them as well. So, great Psalm!
    God bless you and prepare you for the week ahead, as He shows Himself strong on your behalf.

    Reply

    • Deb, You are in my prayers this week for protection and deliverance for those you struggle with. Our God is faithful and will see you through! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7277. You rock Linda! I love it that you are not so chicken to air your observations with the freshly pressed. Anyone mention there that chicken could have came from easter eggs? 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, You made me smile to find all your comments when I logged on this morning. 🙂 You are one of God’s blessings in this life, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7280. This is so wow Linda from the title to the content! I am so sure He found me Linda because during my lowest time I didn’t even have the strength to pray or look for Him. I just fenced in myself feeling lifeless. He took me in His arms and comforted me and nursed me back to life.

    Thank you so much for this and blessings to you 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, When I look back, I realize that He found me long before I even knew it. I’m sure it was the same with you. When we were at our lowest He was holding us in the palm of His hand already helping us heal. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7281. This is just perfect. . .like a prayer, as we go before Him, wondering and asking and Him always answering and finding us there. (not sure that made sense . . .sorry) But your poem did make sense! Thank you! God bless you as you help others get found too!

    Reply

    • Deb, It made sense to me. 🙂 Your comment, that is. It is just so wonderful that He found us, that He cared enough to come in search of us when we were so lost. And that He then uses that lost time to help us have compassion for those He hasn’t found yet. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7284. I have never heard of this and am amazed at you! How cool! Thank you so much and I will be on the look out for that specific type of oatmeal in the future.

    Reply

  7285. I cried about your poem on Idylls and now I’m here crying too. What’s up with that? There was something again about you not wanting to be limited in your thankfulness, that was so pure and sweet and got me boohooing. I’m so thankful for Him too, Linda. And for the blessing He has made you in all our lives.

    Reply

  7286. Uggggghhh!!!! Don’t get me started 😡
    I have wrestled with a lot of these same issues. What bothers me even more than the “freshly pressed” page is the “tag” pages (like when you click on the tag “Bible” or “Christianity” on a post and get a list of other posts with that tag). To WordPress’ credit, they have gotten a lot better since I first started blogging here, but I still wonder what criteria they use to decide which blog gets “promoted” at the top of the list (the “featured” post, the “big” one at the top, not the most recent).
    For a long time, there were two or three anti-Christian bloggers who would upload maybe 20 or 30 new “posts” a day — usually just little 200-300 word attacks against Christianity — and these would inevitably be the “featured” posts in all related categories. So, anytime you would search for blogs related to “Bible”, “Christianity”. “Jesus Christ”, “God”, etc., you would be met with a huge “featured” post that blasphemed God (more than once the “F” word, unedited, would be right in the title).
    I understand that WordPress wants to remain religiously neutral and not “offend” anyone, so I can kind of understand their approach to the “freshly pressed” page, but come on, if someone is searching for posts related to “Christianity”, I don’t really think they are looking for the profane, blasphemous vitriol of those hostile to the Faith. Everyone has a right to say what they want, but I know I would appreciate it if WordPress would at least not exclusively promote material that mocks Christianity. Like I said, though, they have gotten a lot better since I first started writing here 🙂 Like you said, it’s not that I want my blog to be featured, but something positive and well written would be nice.
    Now that my little rant is over, let me say that I think your idea about “freshly pressing” other blogs is a great one. A co-blogger I met on here when I first started used to do the same kind of thing and it was a wonderful way for people to find out about great Christian blogs. One word of caution: you might want to be sure and contact bloggers with whom you don’t have a lot of interaction and make sure they are OK with you endorsing their blog. The person I mentioned who used to do this had a couple of problems with people thinking she was trying to solicit an endorsement from them, or a “link exchange.” I know it sounds crazy (we should all be grateful when anyone shares our writing with others), but some bloggers actually got angry with her!
    With that said, I, too, look forward to learning about some great Christian blogs that I am unaware of when you start this. Like Deb, my time is pretty limited and I don’t have the chance to read or comment on half of the blogs I wish I could. But it is nice to be able to show support for others sharing the Gospel through their blogs and maybe put them on our own blogrolls and keep them in our prayers. We all know this is not an easy effort and we gotta stick together and encourage one another!
    God bless you, Linda, for all you do. May the Lord continue to bless you as you serve Him 🙂 Sorry about such a lengthy comment!

    To God goes all glory,
    Loren

    Reply

    • Loren, No need to apologize about the length of the comment. I appreciate the feedback. I actually chuckled at your rant because since I wrote and posted this I’ve worried the post itself was too much of a rant. I don’t want to seem overly critical. So I appreciate that I am in good company with my frustration. I will keep in mind your advice to contact other bloggers before I post anything about their articles with links back to their blogs. It does seem that no one could possibly mind, but if they are the type of people who would be so upset as to become angry, perhaps they aren’t the type of blog I want to promote anyway. Thank you for your encouragement! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7288. Thank you, Linda.

    I thoroughly enjoyed this poem. We have lots to be thankful for even though we don’t always name them. Thanks for these wonderful reminders.

    Thanks for allowing me to encourage you in this direction to the glory of His name.

    Blessings to you and yours, Linda. May He continue to give you words of wisdom to share with us.

    Blessed!!
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I’m glad you liked this poem. We do have so much to be thankful for and I have enjoyed having a reason to focus on what I am thankful for. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving the nice comment. I love poetry, especially poetry that glorifies God! I will check out your poems, too. By the way, my son would love your Gravatar. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Claudia, Thanks for stopping by and leaving such an encouraging comment. We do have much to be thankful for, and life is much more enjoyable when we focus on the blessings instead of the trials. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7291. Linda, I loved the song and am so thankful that you wrote about this. After just a few years of being set free, God needed to remind me and keep reminding me of what I was set free from. And how others around me are where I was at. I knew how it felt. I just forget and expect them to “get it”. God bless you so much and your ministry to us all!

    Reply

    • Deb, I know what you mean about forgetting where we once were and what Jesus set us free from. But I think it is important to remember and thankful, and realize that our purpose is to help others to be free in Him, too. Glad you liked the song. I was glad I found this acoustic version. The studio version is a lot louder (and I like it, too), but I think this fit better with the post. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7292. Thanks so much for sharing this. Sometimes we do not realize that we create our own prison when we don’t have to. Just went through a wonderful bible study When Wall Flowers Dance by Angela Thomas. She touches on some of this topic in this study.
    Blessings to you and your writings!

    Reply

    • April, Thanks for the encouraging feedback. I was a little nervous about this post because of the Creed video, but I love rock music and so decided to just go for it. The Bible study you did sounds interesting. I will have to check it out and maybe put together a group at my church to do it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7293. God bless you, Linda . . .for caring. For wanting others to at least have an equal chance to read something more eternally worthwhile for them. They may not search out Christian blogs . . .but if one was freshly pressed, they might read something that would change their lives forever. I’ll be praying for you as you search out and share other blogs that share Jesus. 🙂 Can’t wait to see them too! I just have so much time, so don’t get to read and comment on as many as I’d like to.

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you for the encouragement. This post started out as just a frustrated rant and I almost didn’t post it. But then God gave me the idea of something positive to do with my frustration. I don’t have as much time to read and comment on blogs as I wish I had, either. There are just so many good ones. But I never miss yours! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7294. I hadn’t heard that one before Linda, and loved it! 🙂 Thank you sooo much. Glad to be a one trick pony too . . .
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I thought you would like this one. I saw MercyMe do this in concert once. It was awesome! It’s easy to be a one trick pony when the One trick you have is the truth of Jesus! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7296. Thank you, Linda

    Great post!

    “Sometimes that might mean giving up what society tells me are my rights, and it will often require me to trust that the spiritual blessings God will grant me as a result of my selflessness will far outweigh any material blessings I could gain by putting my desires first.”

    Linda, this here could be a whole post by itself. 🙂 Thank you for tying is so beautifully to the rest of this wonderful piece. Thanks for taking the time to put this together to the glory of His name.

    The nailing of the sins to the cross makes me think deeply. I have never had the experience …I don’t know how I would respond to the hammer and nails. That would just reduce me to a pile of tears 🙁 … Makes me appreciate His sacrifice even more.

    Easter may be over but the sacrifices He made still cover our sins. We get to choose how we respond to what He’s done for us.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I cannot stress enough what a wonderful experience it is to nail your sins to the cross. It does cause some tears and sorrow, but it’s a good sorrow that leads to deep appreciation for all that He has done. Thank you for your encouraging comment about this post. For all that He has changed me over the past 20 years, I know He isn’t don’t yet. That thought both scares me and causes me joy at the same time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7297. So blessed by the post and the comments.Theresa said something that really hit me too . . .to take the time to quiet ourselves and listen for His voice throughout our day. I need that . . .have to do that.
    Thank you Linda, for sharing about what comes next . . .goodbye to self.
    God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, Life is so noisy it seems (at least mine is) that I do have to make a conscious effort to quiet myself and listen. One thing about the Holy Spirit, He doesn’t often shout. It’s usually more of a whisper. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7299. Linda, I like the idea of nailing our sins on the cross and leaving it there. Jesus carried the cross out of love for us and here we are sometimes carrying our cross not out of love but pride. Got to nail them really hard! Blessings to you 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, It is a very moving experience to actually pick up a hammer and nail, with sins in hand, and nail them to the cross. I can still hear the ring of the hammer to nail from the first time I did this at a Good Friday service. But this is the first time I really thought about the need to leave those sins there and not try to pick them back up again. You are right that it is pride that makes us want to do that. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7301. This was a great post. I really liked these words:

    “It will also require me to listen closely to the Holy Spirit and follow His advice and promptings. To truly say “so long” to my selfish nature, I must rely on Christ living in me.”

    I really believes the key to living a life pleasing to the Lord is write in those words. He is right there with us, and if we take the time through out the day to quiet ourselves and listen for His voice as we pray and meditate on the word He will increase and self will decrease.

    I am so glad you wrote this post. It reinforced the thoughts in a sermon I heard yesterday that referred to it as practicing His presence.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, Our sermon yesterday was about the good side of impossible. We had a guest speaker and he talked about how it is impossible for God’s Word and promises to not come true. He has promised us His Holy Spirit to guide us. He has promised that if we practice being in His presence, He will increase and we will decrease. I’m so glad this post was a blessing to you and an reinforcement of what you heard yesterday. I love when He works it out so that these things all come together for us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7302. “The whole earth will acknowledge the Lord and return to him.
    All the families of the nations will bow down before him”. . . and all God’s people say, “Amen!” Thanks

    Reply

  7303. Thank you, Linda

    Our Pastor has been doing a series called ‘Vantage Point’ leading up to Easter. When He shared from Peter’s viewpoint, my heart was heavy with the understanding of how Peter must have felt…that sick feeling in the bottom of your stomach when you know you’ve done something terribly wrong. He did mention the word that Jesus sent to tell the other disciples “and Peter ” … I imagine this was comfort to Peter knowing that Jesus did not hold his actions against him. ( I wonder what might have happened had Judas sought His forgiveness….)

    Thanks for sharing this eye opener. I like the Easter story and I often imagine what I would have done had I been front and center.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I wonder what would have happened if Judas had sought forgiveness, too. And I’m pretty sure if I’d been there I would have scattered with the rest of them when the Roman guards arrested Jesus. I have no doubt fear would have been a huge motivating factor for me, as it was for much of my life. I’m so glad He took all that fear upon Himself at the cross and gave me courage and trust in return. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, But the story doesn’t end there really, because each day He changes us who believe, and new believers claim His promises every day! And He will come again when the time is right. But it is wonderful how this chapter in the story ends. Hope you and the family had a wonderful day. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Amen, Linda

        I was singing “That’s Love” as I read your post. The line “That’s not how the story ends, three days later He rose again!” was echoing in my head 🙂

        You are so right. That chapter may have ended but our story is still being written in Him.

        Today was great, thanks kindly. Our Sunday services are called ‘Celebration Services’ but this one was extra special. It was wonderful being in corporate worship singing and dancing to the glory of His name 🙂

        Thanks again. Blessings to you and yours.
        ann

  7305. Thank you for the ending to Psalm 22 today. 🙂 I love that last line, that they will hear about everything He has done. Amen. Thanks for all you do to make sure we hear! God bless you on “He is Risen” day!

    Reply

  7307. I didn’t realize that, Linda, that John was there too. And to really think about how they all felt . .. it’s so hard. I cried a lot yesterday watching different videos with songs. I think it helps bring the joy of Him and His resurrection to bear even stronger.
    God bless you and thank you for all the heart touching posts you do for Him and us!

    Reply

    • Deb, I had never realized that either, until our pastor said it last night. I already had this post planned, but then decided I needed to add that as well. I agree that allowing ourselves to experience the sadness of the crucifixion helps enhance the joy of the resurrection. That’s why I love going to the Good Friday service even though it is so very hard to bear, hearing the nails being pounded into the cross as we nail our sins to the cross. It makes me anticipate Easter all the more eagerly. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I wanted to come back again. 🙂 I loved the song and had forgotten that I knew it, had heard it before. Watching and listening, I thought about the soldier whose ear was cut off and then healed, by Jesus. He too, could have been feeling guilt and shame, knowing first hand that this was not a man like most know. Won’t it be wonderful some day to get to hear and know all their stories? I am thinking sure this man went on to be one of those who believed.
        God bless you and yours this Saturday before Easter!

      • Deb, I had never thought of that, but you are right. One minute his ear was cut off, and the next it was healed by Jesus, so he knew Jesus was no ordinary man. It will be cool to hear all the stories of the disciples and others who witnessed Jesus walking on earth when we get to heaven. Peace, Linda

  7309. I never get tired of hearing that story. In fact, every year at this time, I ask God to help me understand Jesus’s sacrifice and each of the ingredients you mention here… a novel way that helps increase my understanding.

    And yes, it is the Holy Spirit that helps us believe… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I never get tired of this story, either. I love going to the Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services and really focusing on His sacrifice. Tonight we nailed our sins to the cross during the service. Then there is Easter! I’m glad you liked my “recipe” method of sharing the story. Gotta give the Holy Spirit credit on this one, too! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7310. The best recipe yet . . .all ready fixed and done for my family and every one everywhere. God bless you Linda . . .thank you for helping me worship Him today.

    Reply

    • Deb, I agree it’s the best recipe ever! I’m so glad our Lord prepared the Way for us. It is amazing how some ingredients that by themselves can seem so bitter when combined together can be something so sweet. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7311. I think you outdid yourself with this one, Linda. I loved how it covered so much, just like Jesus on the cross, covering all our sin. God bless you as you continue to write just what we need to hear. 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, This is another that came to me while I was on my knees praying the other morning. I had decided the title and acrostic phrase a few days before then couldn’t figure out what to write. But then when I turned it over to the Lord, the words came flooding into my mind. He is so awesome! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Linda,
      This poem is incredible. May I use it in our bulletin? I will most definitely list you as the author. Thank you
      Pastor Scot Schlittler
      Madisonville Christian Church
      Madison Twp PA 18444
      (We are a little country church in the North Pocono area of Pennsylvania 🙂 .

      Reply

      • Hi Pastor Schlittler, Thank you. I’m glad you like this poem. Yes, you may print it in your church bulletin. Please note that it appears in my poetry book “Rejoice! Rejoice! Poems for the Holidays.” Also, I would love to have a copy of the bulletin for my records. If you would send me an email at lindalk48 at gmail.com I’ll give you my mailing address. Peace and grace, Linda

  7314. Wow I like your added thoughts in here — tithes beyond monetary value. I just mentioned blogging in your post ‘A Busy Week Like No Other’ and here I thought about it again because:
    Despite how busy Deb is she encourages other bloggers regularly.
    Despite that Ann was sick she took time to visit and inspire.
    Despite that you have more profound blogs to read you checked mine.
    Despite that Theresa was depressed she took time to appreciate.

    Thank you so much everyone 🙂

    Reply

  7315. And He is so busy not for Himself! I like this post so much Linda. When we think that we have not enough time to even pray and talk to God the more we need to find time to pray and talk to Him! Then we will be amazed how much more extra time we have after spending time with Him — the One who puts order and value to everything. This applies even on blogging 🙂

    Reply

  7316. Thank you for helping us look at this in a better light. And so as not to stress so much over our stuff. It makes me re-check my list to see if the really important things are on there. . .the relationship things , with Him and everyone else . . .and to move those to the top. The other things might have to go, but I don’t want to let those ones go.
    God bless you as He keeps revealing Himself to you this week.

    Reply

    • Deb, Yes, relationships definitely need to be at the top of our to-do list, and our relationship with Him must be #1! As a people-oriented person I don’t have too much trouble with that, but I know people who are more focused on tasks and they find doing this very difficult. I pray we always hang on to Him! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7317. Linda,
    Amen! You said it so well about letting Him help us with our to do list. I was overwhelmed on Monday with a list so long. Then, I said a prayer giving it to God and to my amazement I got it all done with a little free time for myself!
    Blessings to you this week and Happy Easter!

    Reply

    • Elizabeth, I am thankful for His gentle reminders to trust Him, as well as the times He has to pretty much hit me over the head to get me to remember where my strength comes from. Hope you are having a wonderful Holy Week leaning in to Him! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7319. Wow! Thanks Linda …

    Great post! This certainly puts things into perspective.

    I didn’t realize He had so much on His plate…and after all this they flogged Him 🙁

    My to-do list just fell off the radar! 🙂

    Seriously, how can I say thanks?

    Grateful,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I had never noticed before how much happened in that last week either. It just really jumped out at me this year. I don’t know how we can say thanks enough, except to share His love with others and tell them of all the wonderful things He did for us! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7320. I echo Ann’s comment and your post. Am I going to hold back, worried about myself and my needs or am I going to go ahead and extend what ever encouragement I have to give? If I give all that I think I have, I immediately find I am encouraged and can keep going. If I cling to what little I have, I continue to feel desperate and lacking. I love what you said about Divine Love not being logical. 🙂
    God bless you and all He does with what you give.

    Reply

    • Deb, That is exactly it: “If I give all that I think I have, I immediately find I am encouraged and can keep going.” I suspect that the widow, though she gave all she had to live on and then we hear no more about her, never went without that which she needed to be content. She trusted God, and I believe He was faithful to her. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7321. Thanks, Linda
    “sometimes it is necessary to give the widow’s offering of encouragement and spiritual strength, though we may have little to give, rather than keep it for ourselves.”
    I always say God has a sense of humour … often it is at my lowest that an opportunity for ministry presents itself. How much do I trust Him to use me to meet the needs of others when my own needs aren’t even met?

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I have been pondering lately that it is perhaps in meeting the needs of others, when we think we have nothing to give, that He intends to meet our own needs. It’s that whole paradox of finding freedom in surrender. Luke 6:38 comes to mind: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” I think we (at least I do) get hung up on logic. But Divine Love is not logical, it just is. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7322. Thank you

    This is a great post, Linda! I came and read this yesterday, hit the ‘like’ button and ran off, trying to convince myself not to write my thoughts. As you can see, it didn’t work. 🙂

    “I have heard arguments that Jesus did not really rise from the dead, but that the disciples stole His body from the tomb and then made up a story about His resurrection. But if the disciples were trying to perpetrate a fraud and wanted to convince others that their lie was true, they would never have told it in such a way as to rely on the testimony of women.”
    The resurrection is the pillar upon which the Christian faith is built. If He was still in the grave, we would have had no hope! Zero! Zilch! Nada! Those who concocted the lies knew how important it was for His words to be fulfilled so they would do all they can to distort truth. It’s no different now. There are still those who spend their lives trying to disprove what He’s accomplished. That changes nothing. He’s alive! He’s risen! We have eternal life through His death and resurrection. Like you, I choose to believe it happened this way even though I wasn’t there to see it.

    Thanks again for sharing, Linda. Your Easter themed posts are giving me much to think about.

    Believing,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, He is risen, indeed! (Thanks for giving me the perfect opportunity to say that even before our Easter service. That is my favorite part of our service – when the pastor says “He is risen!” and the whole congregation responds “He is risen, indeed!”) You are right, those who still try to distort the truth and disprove what He has done (and is still doing) don’t change a thing. We both know He has accomplished what was impossible for man to do alone and had changed us both to be more like Him. I’m so glad you did come back and share! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7323. Linda –
    I love this and the truth that God calls us to give much more than our financial resources–that it is really about responding to His call to us to reach out to others. To extend ourselves through Him.
    Godspeed,
    Elizabeth

    Reply

    • Elizabeth, We were not meant to be isolated, but to be in relationship with God and with others. We like to think we are independent, but truly we are dependent creatures and we need to reach out to others who are dependent, too, so that they will learn on Whom they can depend. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7324. “the testimony of a woman was not admissible in a court and essentially meant nothing.” Thank you Linda for adding this one, another angle that shows that God isn’t working based on society’s norm.

    I have only one question, if God isn’t alive today how come He has been with us? 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, That is so true that God doesn’t work based on society’s norms. Good question! Too bad those who believe He is not alive today would never see the rhetorical nature of such a question, but would simply answer that He never was with us. I am so glad we know He is alive and living in us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7325. This is such a great post Linda, and the comments too. Thank you for what you have done, led by Him, to prepare our hearts and minds for this week, for this time, for Him. God bless you as we tremble together.

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  7326. have you read ‘who rolled the stone’ – can’t quite think who wrote it, but it’s a really good (and not too hard going) read about the politics and general set-up of the time and does a lot of ‘myth busting’ – like the idea that the disciples moved Jesus’ body.

    Reply

    • Char, I haven’t read that one, but will look for it on Amazon.com. Not that I need to add anything to my current reading list, but I can’t resist a good book about Jesus. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7327. Linda,
    Awesome post, to me it underscores faith. Faith is a belief not on what is seen, but rather what is known. I know He rose from the dead, why would the creator of the universe stage a hoax? The questions to His resserrection come from the devil himself, in his attempt to insert question into our minds. The debate as to whether Christ rose is a dead debate, and anyone who believes He didn’t rise will truly not dwell with Him. Although I believe we need to honor Christ daily with service, I can’t help but feel an apprehension (pleasant) in the week leading up to Easter. The immensity of what He and God did for us weighing down on my heart, and filling it with hope and gratefulness. Great post-God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, You are right that the lies about the resurrection being a hoax come from the devil, and they started right after the wonderful event itself. As recorded in Matthew 28:

      12 When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, 13 telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ 14 If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” 15 So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day.

      I know what you mean about how you feel during this Holy Week. Although we must honor Him daily, this week is special for me, very contempletive, as I ponder the wonder of what He has done for me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7328. Now Ann has me thinking . . .what will I do with Him? All that I can think of is to worship Him, to love Him.
    I love how this begins and ends with giving thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. His love even endured the cross. Thank you so much for doing Psalm Sunday’s Linda. You bless us with His word.
    love, deb

    Reply

  7329. Thank you, Linda

    Psalm Sunday and Palm Sunday together 🙂

    “May this wonderful prophecy be a blessing to you this Holy Week as we journey towards the saving grace and resurrection of our Savior.”
    I’m thankful I was born after the story was written so I can look forward as the other chapter unfolds. For those who had seen Him do miracles, I imagined they expected to see Him to pull one out of the bag but I can’t imagine the horror they may have felt in watching Him go through all that – for us.

    Peter denied Him. Judas betrayed Him. What will I do with Him? I have no palm fronds to lay before Him this morning so I will lay my heart instead.

    The story of Easter has to be the truth I live daily … (What have I done with Him?)

    [ Thanks for the great commentary and scriptures. Did you intend to provoke my thoughts so? 😉 ]

    Blessings right back at ya!
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, If I’m not provoking someone to think more deeply about Jesus, then what would be the point of blogging? It might as well be you. 🙂 I like your question, “What have I done with Him?” I am happy I did have palm fronds to wave at church today to welcome Him, and to sing Hosanna! I’d share mine with you if I could! But I suspect that He is more pleased with our hearts than a palm frond anyway. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7330. This was really heart wrenching, Linda. I know how hard it is for me just when I’m going through my small stuff, to always see God loving me in it. How hard must it have been for Mary? Thank you for keeping us focused on Jesus as we head on towards Resurrection Day. God bless you and your own son!

    Reply

    • Deb, When I thought of Mary when listening to this song, it was heart wrenching. Can you imagine how she must have questioned why God would have sent Him to her only to take Him away in such a brutal way? But I can also see her among the crowd praising Him today, on Palm Sunday, hoping He would save Israel. If only they had understood how He would accomplish just that, as well as saving all mankind who choose to believe. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7331. Thanks Linda,
    I may experiment at making one or both but I shan’t be brave enough to try 🙂 [I will leave that to the young ones.]
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I’m kinda like the Chili Mac, but not being a big fan of hot dogs anyway, I can’t see me eating Chili Mac Dogs! But I’ll probably make it for my son some time. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7332. I love the team work and the good attitudes . .. to try things! 🙂 I need lots of easy fast things so thank you!!! 🙂 And God bless you recipe Fridays!

    Reply

    • Well, we’ll see if I’m brave enough to actually try it on a hot dog! Hopefully this one will be a hit at your house. It is definitely easy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7334. Seems like a nudge to me, there’s a great book by John Ortburg called If You Want To Walk On Water You Have To Get Out Of The Boat and perhaps this will push you further towards what God wants of you. God Bless, Mike.

    Reply

  7335. This is so wonderful and comforting to me today!!! I am loving your poems, here and on Idylls. My how they are ministering to me right where I am at. I don’t like it when I get down. But when He lifts me up like today through the blogs/friends, I feel extra extra blessed then. 🙂
    Thank you and God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I am so glad you were blessed by this poem. I’ve gone back and reread it several times myself since I wrote it a couple of nights ago, and am just amazed that He gave me such perfect words. This is another one of those instances where I have to give the Holy Spirit all the credit for anything that is good in it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7336. Linda

    I like your interpretation of trusting Him. 🙂

    We don’t always know the way but I’m learning to trust Him!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks, I’m learning to trust Him more, too. And I’m really loving all the poetry He gives me and am so glad you suggested Thankful Thursday so that I have a reason to write a new poem every week. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7337. Linda . . .I loved this and that verse! 🙂 ( And Rachels’ post too!) I find it exciting and comforting all at the same time. I’m not sure how to tie this in, if it will make sense, but I seem to keep being reminded of how much we live in a fallen world, surrounded by lies, that permeate my thinking more than I know. And so I might be tempted to worry or despair that I don’t know His word enough, that I don’t have it memorized like I should. Which in fact is a lie . . .as stated in John 14 above. 🙂 The Holy Spirit will remind me. Jesus said so. One lie squashed . . .thank you!
    God bless you as you pour out His truth here!

    Reply

    • Deb, I think that’s all we can do, is squash one lie at a time. I have been reminded a lot lately, too, that we live in a fallen world and that there are lies everywhere. Many of those lies are masquerading as the truth and being accepted as the truth by the majority, which makes it all the harder to squash them, even if it is only in our own mind. Thankfully the Holy Spirit is here to help us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7338. I can’t imagine going through my daily living without the Holy Spirit!
    My husband and I took part in a year long bible study called Disciple where we studied as a group the bible from cover to cover. Though I had read the bible, grown up in a Christian home, my eyes were opened up to so much more about God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit ! It was all so amazing!

    Reply

    • April, Group Bible studies can be quite wonderful. I’ve participated in a number of studies over the years. The first one I ever attended was a study of Nehemiah and Ezra. I look back on that now and see that it coincided with my own return from a self-imposed exile from the presence of God. Thank you for sharing about the Bible study you and your husband attended. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7339. Linda, I have not fully realized that it’s best to trust in the Lord until someone close to me broke my trust. Even the restoration of broken trust is best left to Him.

    Thank you for posting this one Linda. Made me think further how I may have failed others too 🙂

    Reply

  7340. Trust was also the topic at my Alanon meeting today. I was surprised and delighted to hear most of the women discuss trust issues the way you have here.

    My contribution was that I fully trust God to care for all those who are suffering because of the tsunami in Japan. But even though I prayed that the day of our airline travel back to Ohio would go smoothly, we got to the airport and I wasn’t sure I could trust Him to help me find gate C1.

    How lame is that? I confess my distrust almost nightly. I can’t imagine how that sin must hurt God’s heart… Great lesson tonight. Thanks. : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I love how God brought this subject to your attention in more than one way! He is so awesome to repeat lessons that we really need to hear. Sometimes it makes me think I can see the big picture as He does, but then it’s gone and I just see my little piece once again. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7341. I know some close to me with trust issues. I understand where they are coming from, but it can so consume their lives and has become the driving force behind what they do and don’t do. So stressed and unhappy. So I love what you have shared about trusting God who can be trusted . . .and forgiving those who can’t be.
    God bless you and thank you for keeping it real.

    Reply

    • Oh Deb, I don’t think I said anything about forgiving those who can’t be trusted, but that is what I needed to be reminded of. Thank you so much for adding that very important point! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7342. It is amazing how trusting Him frees us from the dregs of disappointment when others let us down, or we let others down. I think in a lot of ways it also gives us the courage to once more try and trust those who have hurt us. Good post Linda! Blessings,
    Eden

    Reply

  7344. Hello Linda…

    I am the thief who needed evidence, someone who always wanted a sign. And then He changed me. So it’s not just by faith that I believe, I have proof that everyone who calls on His name will be forgiven and receive a new heart, as promised! The Holy Spirit living in me is all the proof I need!

    Also…I love the song and the video! This sounds like good, contemplative music to drive by and I can’t wait to put it on my iPod. Will you be burning a CD of your favorite hits anytime soon? Sign my up… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I agree – the Holy Spirit living in me is all the proof I need, too! So glad you like the song. Third Day is one of my favorite Christian bands. They have a nice mix of mellow praise music and good Southern rock! No plans to burn a CD; I just keep adding stuff to my iPod. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7345. Thanks, Linda

    This is a wonderful post. I’ve been here more times than I can count today. I keep turning your thoughts over and over in my mind and it’s just so much to think on. You’ve packed some really interesting thoughts here in here… Where to start?

    Which thief am I like? I’d say a bit of both… there are days I do “God to just fix everything right now and do things the way (I) think they should be done.” There are other days when I believe I am “willing to trust that God has a better way” . He’s given His promises and I know them to be true…it’s just that some days are more challenging than others. 🙂

    As you said, “thankfully, He knows that I put my trust in Him… He knows where my heart is.

    Blessings and thanks for the hard questions. Trusting Him to lead me through.

    Committed,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It’s nice to hear that after these thoughts are turned over and over in my mind, then finally committed to blog, they take up residence elsewhere. I am so blessed to have this place to share the things that God lays on my heart, and to have fellow bloggers who find them worthwhile to read. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7346. Oh no . . .I forgot to tell you how much I love that song. It made me cry . . .and how many times have I heard it??? When my oldest was young and taking Tae-kwon-do, I found out her instructor, just a young guy 16 to 17 yrs. old, liked that song. So I gave him my copy of that first cd of theirs. I’m so glad so many of those first songs are still heavy favorites. So easy, for me at least, to see God’s hand upon them. Thank you!!

    Reply

    • Deb, My favorite part of the song is when he sings, “They nail Him to the rugged cross, and raise Him, they raise Him up next to me.” You can just hear in his voice how unworthy he feels to have the Messiah, the Son of God, next to him. One of my earlierst posts on here was actually about this song, before I knew how to post videos. It’s called The Thief on the Cross. It was also written during Lent, but last year. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7347. I love the insight you bring to this. Thank you so much. Sometimes in wanting to see those “miracles” I lose sight of the biggest miracle, my salvation and forgiveness of my sins. Only I and He know the extent that my life itself is a miracle, in how He changed me.
    God bless you, Linda, as you continue to lead us on toward Easter with Jesus.

    Reply

    • Deb, I think I have some idea of the miracle of how He changed you, because He did the same to me, and continues to on a daily basis. 🙂 As humans, I think we are just prone to want to see the other “miracles” and “signs.” I know I was quite touched by Jim’s post about Zahra’s miracle. But I think we have to always keep sight of that most wonderful miracle of forgiveness! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7348. I love the story about your grandma’s goulash. It is always nice to get a new version and I’m going to make yours tonight. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the recipe. Please post more recipes.

    Reply

    • Cami, Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. I think of Grandma every time we have goulash. I do post a new recipe every Friday, so check back then. Also, in case you didn’t notice, I have a Recipe Index page linked at the top of my blog that lists every recipe I have posted so far. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7349. I love this – I was teaching on the crucifixon to a learning disability group on Sunday, using some basic drama, and as always, learnt quite a few lessons myself! I would love to think that I would be the humble of the sinners, but am also aware that this would probably not be the case. Saying ‘I was wrong, Jesus, and your way is better’ can be a challenge of wills, sometimes, but always worth it. blessings, char48

    Reply

    • Char, I think that at this point in my life I can safely say I am more like the humble sinner asking for Jesus’ mercy, but that was not always the case and it has been a long journey to get there. Then some days the old me rears its head. Thankfully, He knows that I put my trust in Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7351. Thank you, Linda

    For the most part I rejoice when I read the Psalms… at other times I reflect. I think this is one of those moments for deep reflection.

    Thank you for your these great lead notes. Good question about the prophecy… it probably didn’t hit them until after the moment. Somewhat like Judas or Peter… I wonder alongside you 🙂

    I can’t imagine the anguish that Jesus endured, all the time knowing what was ahead of Him. Still He went through it for us. I am truly grateful

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I agree that this is definitely one of the more reflective Psalms. I am also grateful that He endured it all for us, knowing ahead of time all that would transpire. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7352. I haven’t been in the Psalms reading, except for when you post them or Theresa. This is so powerful. I think that there were some who were looking for the Messiah, who were studying prophecy at that time, who came to realize that Jesus was indeed the One. Wouldn’t that be something if those who actually did those things came to understand and believe in Him as their Lord and Savior?
    God bless you as you help us prepare our hearts for Jesus.

    Reply

  7353. Thank you, Linda

    “Just as Jesus allowed things to play out and did not try to avoid Judas’ betrayal, we must continue in our faith and in speaking the truth of Jesus even though it may mean persecution and trouble.”
    We don’t often like the hard teachings or like to answer the hard questions but they are oh so necessary. Some hard questions don’t come with the answers we hope for but we can trust His direction.

    “We must do the same and not become discouraged because there are so many in our world today who do not believe.”
    Comments like these encourage and sadden me at the same time. I am saddened because my heart bleeds for those who don’t know Him but I am encouraged because there is still hope. Many won’t hear unless we tell them…

    This year’s Easter lead-up is the most intense I’ve experienced in many years. Thank you for being a part of this ‘intensity’. Blessings to you and yours as you research and share His love with us.

    The hard questions can often be very hard but they help us grow in Him.

    Thankful for His sacrifice,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I can relate to your concurrent feelings of encouragement and sadness. There are people in my life who don’t know Him, and I just have to keep praying for them, and for the right words to share with them. Thank you for letting me be part of your intense Lenten experience! Mine has been a bit intense as well, with much more focus on Him than I used to have. I’m looking so forward to Palm Sunday and Holy Week this year! And then, of course, Easter will be so wonderful. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7354. This is a very encouraging post. I love these words and have thought about them often:

    “Lord, to whom would we go?”

    There was an old hymn we used to sing called “Where Could I Go But To The Lord”. I am always reminded of it when I read those words Peter spoke.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  7355. Excellent advice. I have always loved Peter’s answer in John 6:68-69. It has to be one of my favorite passages. If He doesn’t have the answers, nobody does.

    In Christ,
    Ben

    Reply

  7356. Thank you so much, Linda, for this excellently written and composed piece for Jesus. I know that there are many things that are still hard for me to understand, but love how you put it . . .that His basic teachings aren’t difficult to grasp. We can start there. I always ask Him to show me what I need to understand for now, for this day, for this season of my life, for this situation. I figure He knows what I need to know and I can trust Him to give me the understanding when I need it.
    God bless you as you serve Him and us!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m not sure those who walked away in this passage realy wanted to try to understand. I am so thankful that if we have a desire to understand His teaching, He will help us understand what we need to when we need to. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7357. Thanks, Linda.

    I’d like to try this one in the summer. Would I be able to substitute tomato paste….?

    Your thoughts please and thank you.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, The main difference between catsup and tomato paste is that catsup has sugar and vinegar, so I think it would be okay to substitute the paste. It also might end up a but thicker, so you could add a tad bit of water to make it easier to spread on top of the meatloaf. Enjoy! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Thanks, Linda 🙂

        I can’t find any this side without additives … I may have to experiment a bit but I’d sure like to try this one 🙂

        Blessings,
        ann

      • Ann, The topping is not nearly so important as the ratios of the meatloaf itself, so I’m sure any experimenting you do would turn out fine. Peace, Linda

  7358. Thanks for this recipe Linda! The next time I go for meatloaf, I’m using this. Thanks again for the potato soup! 🙂 I tried the ham and scalloped potato recipe . . .he wouldn’t eat it. 🙁 So, I shared it with my mom . . .and gave her some of the potato soup too! 🙂 It’s hit and miss here with food, but God encourages me to keep trying. God bless you for helping me do just that.

    Reply

  7360. I’m here and sooo happy about it. 🙂 I loved, “at last I heard the Shepherd and found His sheep pen.” No finer place to be!
    Thank you , Ann, for the song . . .for lots of grace.
    Thank you and God bless you, Linda, for taking us through salvation, something we can’t live without.
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I always think of you now during my prayer time on Thursday mornings, knowing it is a challenging day for you, and smile knowing the poem God has given me will be a blessing to you when you get home. I’m so glad to be in His sheep pen and in His grace. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7362. Thanks, Linda!

    I like mucho 🙂

    “We all need a Savior, and Jesus died to fill that need. I also knew I needed to address the change that comes as a result of accepting the gift of salvation. It is a gift that changes the recipient to be more like the Giver.”

    When I used to hear my grandma sing “Blessed Assurance” I didn’t get it. Now I can sing with the understanding that the death and resurrection of Jesus gives me the hope of a future with my Father. He has done a marvelous thing and I am changed indeed 🙂

    “Now I am free, His Spirit within assures salvation, not loss.”
    I’m human and I make mistakes BUT I know He’s there with open arms waiting for me to come back to Him. Jesus died for all my sins and nothing can change that fact!!

    “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine
    Oh what a foretaste of glory divine
    Heir of alvation, purchase of God
    Born on His Spirit, washed in His blood!!”

    Assured of His salvation,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for adding the video of that wonderful hymn. I love that one! Now I’m going to have that running through my head all day, and that’s a good thing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7364. “The word ‘know’ appears 42 times in this short epistle because John wants to make sure believers know that God loves them and that they can rely on His promise of salvation. ”

    That really is something.

    This really is a well thought out post! I am so glad that you shared it. I think I will come back and look at it again. I am so glad that you wrote those five statements at the top. They are really something I want to look at again.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, I knew you would like this. And I am hoping at some point to do some additional posts on the other points that I’ve noticed from John’s writings. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7365. Oh my goodness, Linda. This really hit me. I had never heard that story/sermon before, or thought of it like that. Jesus is tugging on my heart with this, with each thing I say “no” to changing, to putting on new. phew. This has been a powerful day for me in blog land. And at home, some hard things going on, so He knew. 🙂 God bless you for sending this post out for Him, right to my heart.

    Reply

    • Deb, This story really got me thinking, too, about the things I still don’t want to change. I’ve come so far, but there’s still more work He needs to do before the wedding day. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7366. Very, very impressive blog, Linda! I think I’d like to ask you to congratulate pastor Gary from me on a very moving sermon, even though I was about a thousand miles awayand didn’t hear it in person. You conveyed it very well!

    Reply

  7367. Hello Linda,

    Thank you for this post! it is a good reminder that God uses others in the Kindgom come along side us to help purify us and ready us for His coming again.

    Blessings,
    Laura

    Reply

    • Laura, Thank you for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. When I heard the story, I was thinking of how the Holy Spirit purifies us, but you are right that the Lord brings other believers into our lives to help with that process as well. Often, I have found lately, they are fellow bloggers who we will not meet until we reach heaven. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Elizabeth, The wonderful thing is that He is taking your tattered clothes and changing them into robes of righteousness, day by day making you new. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7370. Thank you, Linda

    Beautiful post 🙂

    Thankful we don’t have to wear the smelly , dirty ‘gutter clothes’ anymore.!

    It seems logical that one would jump at a chance for cleanliness and beauty but as you pointed out, the Holy Spirit has to do a work in us. When we allow Him free reign and look back at what He has saved us from, we will exclaim like the songwriter “Hallelujah! What a Saviour!”

    I came ‘Just As I Am’ but I’m thankful I didn’t have to remain that way!!

    Thank you Lord for your wonderful love for us and for the ‘free’ in salvation. I don’t know have enough words to thank You for the change You’ve brought about in me but my heart sings each time I think of what You’ve done. I stand in amazement and wonder!
    “You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great. Psalm 18:35”
    I pray You will be glorified in all I do. Serving You is the least I can do for all You’ve done for me!! Amen

    “I don’t know how to say exactly how I feel” so I’ll sing along with Phillips, Craig and Dean – Pour My Love On You

    Gratefully loved,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for adding your wonderful prayer and that beautiful song. I am so thankful that He has not left me just as He found me, but the Holy Spirit has changed me and continues to change me day by day. “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7371. Hi Linda,

    After reading this blog last night, my devotions this morning included a passage from Colossians which seemed to fit your comments beautifully – especially from 2: 23 to 3:15. I’ll quote just a few – (23: “these rules may seem good … but … they only make him proud. ( 3:2-3), Let heaven fill your thoughts; don’t spend your time worrying about things down here. You should have as little desire for this world as a dead person does. Your real life is in heaven with Christ and God.” And so on through verse 15. The whole passage is a good contrast between practicality and spirituality.

    Btw, your bio says you’re a “recovering” lawyer. We’re curious what your legal specialty was.

    Best wishes.

    Reply

    • Pete, That passage from Colossians does fit nicely with this post. Thank you for adding that. Jesus said we are to store up treasures in heaven, and not get entangled with earthly treasures that keep us from God.

      As for my legal specialty, I’m not sure I really ever had one. I did some construction law and debtor-creditor stuff in my first associate position, and after that did a lot of work on a contract basis for various other attorneys – anything from appellate briefs to family law motions to appearing in bankruptcy court. But I’ve actually been in legal publishing for more than half of my legal career, and that’s what I do now.

      What I really want to do is be a writer and inspirational Christian speaker. I can see where God is laying the groundwork for that, and has been doing so all throughout my life. I don’t know when it will happen, but I trust God is in control. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7372. Thank you for always revealing more of Jesus and encouraging us in our devotion to Him here. This gave me more insight into Judas too. Wondering when he saw what he thought was the end of his prosperity, that that caused him to turn Jesus in, and at least make some money from that. Now thinking about how often I let practicality kill what the Holy Spirit would desire in me?
    God bless you and draw you ever closer!

    Reply

    • Deb, I don’t want to let practicality stop me from seeing Jesus for who He really is or to miss what the Holy Spirit desires in me, either. I still feel sad for Judas, but he made his choice and put money first. I don’t ever want to do that. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7373. Thank you, Linda

    This speaks volumes … Judas didn’t know the ‘end’ was only the beginning but we are fortunate that we know the whole story.

    Praying we will see through His eyes and that experience the wondrous offer born of the Father’s love for us.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I’m glad I could give you something to reflect on. When you think about it, what Jesus did for us wasn’t practical at all – it was quite impractical and outrageous. That is what Divine Love is, something impractical and yet so wonderful at the same time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7375. Yes, it makes my heart sad when I encounter someone who does not know the forgiveness of Christ…I share that they don’t have to carry that burden…it is also sad to see people who know Christ but they won’t accept His forgiveness…how freeing forgiveness through Christ is! I will be checking out this read.

    Reply

    • April, I think you meant to reply to the post after this one about Judas. It is sad when people won’t accept forgiveness or can’t seem to believe that they can be forgiven. The weight I carried before I was forgiven by Christ was too heavy for me to bear, and I am so glad He has taken it away. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7376. My mind thought I believe in God but haven’t really felt God until pains and destructions came upon me. When my dreams were destroyed I cried but I wouldn’t have dreamed loftier, beyond this world, had it not been destroyed. When my relationship was severely damaged I cried but I wouldn’t have loved deeper, beyond human, had it not been damaged. When my possessions were lost I cried but I wouldn’t have aspired further,beyond earthly riches, had it not been lost. If there was no God, there will be no pains and there will be no joys — only boring empty wanderings like a mechanical toy that is produced and left to function until it is worn out and meaningless.

    Linda, I am so happy, though crying, because I have been through this and thankful for it. I am glad that when I felt the pains I didn’t question God’s existence nor I ask , Why? Why do we have to ask why when we know that we took part in the malfunction when we didn’t follow the manufacturer’s manual? Why can’t we take responsibility? Why are we so unreasonable — not believing in God for the creation yet we blame Him for the destruction?

    Glad that you add the watch to simplify things. I read your posts but oftentimes I can’t comment because though I thought I understand, I really don’t. Your thoughts and writings are profound but I am not blaming it — I know why I can’t understand it and I have to smile when I read Ann’s comment, “If I don’t have the guidance of the Holy Spirit, I really won’t get it.” Yes, I don’t have the guidance of the Holy Spirit most of the times because I take no real effort in knowing Him more. I just relied in my heart but it’s not enough. I am like a child who knows for sure that my Papa loves me but I don’t learn about him more that I may understand his messages and ways.

    Now back to the watch. All my watches are from my hubby so naturally I am so grateful for him. I never thought about the manufacturer until it stopped running and my hubby has no capacity to make it work. Most of the times we are like that, we are only grateful to the nearest supply channel — kiddos are thankful for parents but where do parents came from? Evolution? Who designed the process of evolution? We are thankful to gravity because we do not fall from the earth. Who designed gravity?

    We have so many questions about existence and if our answer isn’t the Ultimate then there is no stopping with our questioning. If the answer isn’t the Ultimate what do we need the answer for? Hmm I suspect I am a battologist right now so, I am stopping but wait I got to say woooooot to the Greatest Awesomist Artist!
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, What a wonderful comment! So much there I’m not sure what to say in response. You know, we are each at a different place in our understanding of our Savior and His Word, but if you desire with your heart to know Him more, He will be faithful to teach you. My thoughts on God were not always so profound and there was a time I barely knew Him at all. But your comment has encouraged me to maybe write some more basic posts, to rethink the process of how I came to my understanding of Him and share that journey. I sometimes think that the basics are too basic, but you have shown me that those who read here might need those basics to help them along in their own understanding of God’s love and mercy.

      I love what you said about supply channels. “Most of the times we are like that, we are only grateful to the nearest supply channel.” I pray we would look to the Grand Manufacturer more often! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I LOVED Rea’s comment too!! She knows more than she thinks she knows! 🙂 Thank you, Rea!!! You bless me and help me!

  7377. This is soooo good. 🙂 I’ve heard it many times before, but never enough. It’s that good. Thank you and God bless you for bringing us a Monday music extra!

    Reply

  7378. Thank you, Linda, for the beautiful song and the heart behind your post, that desires God to be seen and known and loved, because He loves us so. Reading the comments leaves me without many words to say. I’m thinking of a song by White Heart, an old song that sang, “Even the hardest heart can break like the morning.” So thankful that He draws us to Him and that hearts can change and be made new. He continues to make me new each day, continues to create in me.
    God bless you and your love of Him and others!

    Reply

    • Deb, I knew you would like the song. It’s one of my favorites by Revive. I am thankful that He continues to make me new each day as well! I like that idea that what He is doing in our hearts is continue to create. He does create in us a love that wasn’t there before. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7379. Thanks for sharing, Linda

    The picture is bigger than it appears. Christianity is our reality and that makes it easier for us to accept truth. For someone who does not believe the Bible account of creation, it’s equally easy to believe alternative suggestions. If I don’t believe the scriptures, quoting them amounts to viewing air. If I don’t have the guidance of the Holy Spirit, I really won’t get it.

    I deliberately avoid certain discussions but I felt compelled to share a part of my story. I want to thank you for putting this out there and I do pray that God will reveal Himself to those who desire truth. My personal experience living on both sides of the fence has taught me much. Because of the foundation I had been given, coming home was easy. Not so for many especially if they received their grounding elsewhere or who have closed all doors to reasoning and learning otherwise.

    When I moved in the other circle I realized that some who thought of themselves as Atheists were Agnostics. For some, there is a belief in a higher power – but a different system of beliefs. An Almighty God (or an entity so exalted) yes. Jesus as the Way…no. There were others at different stages of confusion- seeking what we know not but knowing where we were was not the place to be. ( I found it easier for me to disprove / discount His way than to accept the possibility of a ‘maybe’. )

    Jesus came to die for us but the Word in St John 6 says none can come unless the Father draws them. I choose to believe the scriptures: (44No one can come to me, unless the Father who sent me makes them want to come. But if they do come, I will raise them to life on the last day. 45One of the prophets wrote, “God will teach all of them.” And so everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him will come to me. )
    I know He called me. To write that experience here would take a long, long time but I have to celebrate the fact that He redeemed me and called me by name. My course of action suggested I should have been dead and gone but Mercy said NO!!

    I cannot (and will not attempt to) speak for anyone but myself. The song “It Is Well With My Soul” means much to me. I tell my friends I am not afraid of death … It doesn’t mean I’m morbid. It means I have come to the place in life where I realize nothing else matters except living for Him. I love my family and the wonderful people He has placed in my life but none of them mean as much to me as my relationship with Him. If I had to live life without them tomorrow it would be very, very painful but I would not choose this world or anything in it over living for Him. I struggled ( read suffered ) once. I don’t need to do it again. It came down to me and Him and at the end of it, I surrendered.

    When I lived in the wilderness, those who responded to me in love got my attention quicker than those intent on dousing me with holy water. When we look at the vast number of interpretations of the Bible and the myriad doctrines, it is easy to see why someone could stay on the other side and be quite happy with themselves. Now that I am trying to walk in His steps, I realize I was never truly happy when I wasn’t walking with Him.

    I play a game called ‘angry birds’ on my Ipod. The object is to launch missiles from a catapult to destroy the enemy’s hiding place and the enemy hiding therein. God had to destroy everything I held onto and hid behind in order for me to see Him and Him alone. For others, the destruction of the things around them pushed them further and further away from Him. Even then, He waits with open arms.

    There are still people close to me who have walked away from Him and who still continue to walk away from Him. I too am saddened but I cannot be held responsible for the actions of an adult. I have the option to share Christ, they have the option to reject Him. I live the way I think He wants me to live and leave the rest to Him but I choose to believe they will come home.

    P.S. In my state of ignorance, I blamed the watchmaker .

    Redeemed and grateful,
    ann

    P.S. – Pardon me if I sound jumbled. I was trying to get all the thoughts out before my fingers got tired 🙂 .

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks for such a thoughtful comment; it didn’t seem jumbled at all to me. I love the verse you quoted from John 6. That is what I often pray for family and friends who don’t know Jesus, that that Father will draw them to His Son. You are exactly right in your conclusion: “I have the option to share Christ, they have the option to reject Him. I live the way I think He wants me to live and leave the rest to Him but I choose to believe they will come home.” I am also redeemed and grateful. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7380. “How did this complex and interconnected world come into being without a creator?”

    Depends on what you mean by ‘complex’, ‘interconnected’ and ‘world.’

    If you just mean the planet…gravity is pretty much all the explanation we need. If you mean the life on the planet, then evolution through natural selection explains how life became so varied and connected.

    You’ll have to be a bit more specific if you’d like a more specific answer.

    “but I can’t figure out how the thousands (probably more) species of flowers came into being”

    Because there were biological niches in which those flowers could adapt in order to survive. The environment causes flowers (like any living thing) to either adapt or die. Countless more types of flowers than currently exist died out because they didn’t or couldn’t adapt. Some could, which explains the ones that exist now.

    I agree with you that they’re beautiful. But that’s a subjective judgment.

    “so I’d have to say I know better what I have experienced”

    I didn’t mean to call into question your experience. I merely am calling into question whether or not your experience matches up with reality.

    For example, I have a friend who says he was abducted by aliens. He had an experience which has caused him to believe that he was taken aboard an extra terrestrial ship and inspected by aliens. I don’t doubt his honesty. I’m sure he believes what he tells me. But I don’t believe that he was actually abducted. I believe something occurred that caused him to believe that. And unless or until I am, myself, abducted…or other evidence appears to confirm his story…I won’t believe that he was actually abducted. And the same applies to you.

    Reply

    • I’m sorry, but “gravity” and the theory of evolution are insufficient, in my opinion, to explain the existence of life on this planet or the way in which the various species depend on one another and depend on the very atmosphere that this planet has (and even contribute to it – such as plants using the carbon dioxide mammals exhale and mammals breathing the oxygen plants produce – which is what I mean by interconnected). And if the love I have experienced is not reality, I don’t want to know reality. I hope and pray you will know that love one day. Thank you for the lively discussion. Peace and love to you, Linda

      Reply

      • “are insufficient, in my opinion”

        In your opinion they are insufficient. But in reality, they are the explanations we have based on the evidence. You are, of course, free to have any opinion you want.

        “And if the love I have experienced is not reality, I don’t want to know reality. ”

        If you don’t care about what is demonstrably true, then asking anyone to explain to you how the world works or became the way it is seems the tiniest bit dishonest.

      • I never suggested that my opinion was not based on the evidence I have seen and considered. But now it seems you are just trying to be argumentative, and I think I shall concede that you will not be convinced by the evidence either. Thanks again for your comments. Peace, Linda

  7381. “(though I suspect you don’t think hope is necessary)”

    Not at all. On the contrary, I view hope as a good thing.

    I just don’t think hope in what your religion promises is the only kind of hope out there. And I don’t believe what your religion promises actually exists, thus negating any hope it may inspire. Hope is great. False hope, not so much.

    “But I do find it interesting that so many of the commenters on a blog called “Belief Blog” profess to be atheists and spend so much time there trying to discount the beliefs of others.”

    As we don’t have our own places on CNN on which to comment, why not comment there?

    Reply

    • The hope I have is actually not in a religion, it is in a person and it is in love. My Savior calls me to love my neighbor and love my enemy as He first loved, by laying down His life for me and for all of humanity. I’m not sure what it is you think the Christian faith promises that you do not believe exists, but what I know Christ promises is a to make me a new creation. I have personally experienced the change He has made in my own heart and is making daily, calling me to love in a way I never did and never could before I knew Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • “I’m not sure what it is you think the Christian faith promises that you do not believe exists”

        The deity, whether you call it Jesus or God or Yahweh or Christ. Or any other name. That’s what I don’t believe in. Along with any sort of afterlife.

        “I have personally experienced the change He has made in my own heart”

        I don’t know what that means.

        But I don’t question whether or not you’ve experienced something. I just don’t believe you experienced what you think you did.

        “calling me to love in a way I never did and never could before I knew Him”

        I don’t know what kind of love you mean, but I imagine I can love in all the same ways.

      • Which brings us back to the point of my original post and my question for you. How did this complex and interconnected world come into being without a creator? I am not a scientist either, but I can’t figure out how the thousands (probably more) species of flowers came into being or why if there was not a creator who had an eye for beauty and created them.

        As for my experience, I was there (and I am here now experiencing it) so I’d have to say I know better what I have experienced in terms of how His love has changed me than you would and whether you believe it does not change that. I am sorry you don’t know the kind of love I am talking about, because it is a divine love – the Greeks called it agape – and it is more wonderful than anything else I have ever known. Peace, Linda

  7382. “I almost cried when I read this.”

    I have no desire to make you cry more, but the vast majority of atheists that I have encountered were once Christians and have read all about Christianity and the Bible. Myself included.

    “So why, then, do some people think that what we have done to this earth and what we as humans do to each other is evidence that there is no God?”

    Who does? Could you give examples of people who use this as evidence?

    It might be evidence against the existence of some type of gods that people claim to believe in. But it isn’t evidence that there isn’t a god at all.

    Reply

    • Thanks for the comment. It does make me a little sad that you have explored Christianity and now have somehow reached the conclusion that there is no God. As for the commenter that almost made me cry, there was more to the comment that I didn’t include, and that was that she was feeling quite hopeless. She even has a blog titled “Living Suicidal.” It was her hopelessness that really made me sad. I am encouraged, however, by the fact that there are plenty of former atheists who have come to know the love of God through Jesus Christ, even some famous ones like C.S. Lewis and Lee Strobel. There is always hope (though I suspect you don’t think hope is necessary).

      As for the question you quoted and your query as to where I have heard this argument. The question came from this argument earlier in my post:

      I’ve often heard the argument that if there was a God, there would not be so much violence, famine, sickness, and pain in the world, because a good and all-powerful God would just fix all the problems. But this argument completely discounts the role humans play in taking care of (or failing to take care of) the wonderful gift God has given us.

      I’ve seen this argument many times in the comments on the CNN Belief Blog. Now whether those who make this argument are serious, or are just atheists (or not, it’s hard to tell sometimes) trying to cause a stir on in the comments, I don’t know for sure. But I do find it interesting that so many of the commenters on a blog called “Belief Blog” profess to be atheists and spend so much time there trying to discount the beliefs of others. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7383. Thank you, Linda 🙂

    This was my ‘random’ Psalm before I went to bed last night!!

    Thanks for posting. Praying that when He looks now He will find the faithful remnant.

    Looking forward to the Monday post 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I love that this Psalm is repeated as it’s a good one. I like your prayer; it’s a good one, too. I’ve been on kind of a roll this weekend. Besides writing my Saturday post and posting this Psalm, the posts for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are already scheduled, and I am almost done with my Thursday poem post. The Lord must know I will have a busy week to have given me so much to write already! I’m looking forward to your Monday, post, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7384. I believe excepting His existence is really important too!!! Thank you and God bless you for helping us know Him and accept Him more and more. 🙂
    love, deb
    p.s. Linda . . .I made your potato soup for my hubby last night. HE LIKED IT. ATE TWO BOWLS. !!!!! Thank you so much!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂 God is so good to me!

    Reply

  7386. And they have that song Can’t Change Yesterday — especially for your post! 😉
    I forgot to mentioned in my previous comments that I love your banner — the real stick too 🙂

    Reply

  7387. Thanks Linda, for helping us look at the up side of disappointments. We never know what tomorrow will bring, but being with Him is the best part of every day. 🙂
    God bless you and bring you smiles today! Love the Revive song!

    Reply

    • Deb, I think if we don’t look at the upside of disappointments this world can too easily bring us down. Jesus is with us today, and the one thing we do know about tomorrow is that He will be the same and will be with us still! There is no greater upside than that. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7388. Thanks for sharing, Linda

    I’m sorry you didn’t get to go but I thank you for sharing such a ‘personable’ face to this band. If it counts for anything, I know of them because of your earlier writings and I do thank you for sharing.

    I really pray that you will get to see them soon in the setting you desire. I pray above all that your time of worship will be a wonderful time in His presence.

    Thanks again for letting us share this experience you.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for your prayers. Music is so important to me, and I love sharing the bands I have found who glorify God. This band is definitely one of those! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7389. My mouth literally watered like Pavlov’s dogs. Too funny! I’m not even that into food, but this made-by-hand side dish sounds heavenly!

    You find joy in cooking, it shows in your recipe posts. But for me, not only do I not sing, not dance, (and not work), I don’t cook either! What the heck do I do?

    That realization is even scarier than a mouth that waters… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I do love to cook, though I would love it more if someone else would always take care of the clean up for me. 😉 One reason I love to cook is because I love to eat, and if I cook it I can contol what’s in it.

      It seems to me you do plenty. You are the primary caretaker for someone who is ill, and that can be exhausting. Plus you write. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7390. Thanks Linda,

    This is super efficient of you. Many thanks for sharing 🙂

    I hear summer!! 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Yes, the sun is even shining here! When summer is really here, and my Treager pellet stove is working again, I have another great and easy potato recipe I will share. I should have included in the recipe that you can actually use chicken or vegetable broth instead of milk for those who can’t do milk, and the potato puffs are good without cheese, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7391. I do a lot of potato mashing! But haven’t tried garlic ones. I prayed yesterday for God to help me in the cooking department. I’m not real good at it and then face extra challenges with what my family will and will not eat . . .and He answered me. Right here! 🙂 Here is a way to make something they like a little better, tastier. Love it and love you! Thank you! Will wait for the meatloaf. He hasn’t liked mine again lately . . .ha! God bless you and thank you for helping me!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad these recipes will be help. I have actually made some bad meatloaves in the past. It’s a tricky dish. But I think I finally figured it out this week. Between the three of us we polished off 1 1/2 pounds of burger except for one little slice they left me for lunch. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7392. I’m so thankful to be here and loved Linda’s comment and Ann’s too . . .and Leroy’s is so true! 🙂 I’m so thankful to be forgiven too and can’t wait to see what He gives you for Salvation. God bless you and all the ways He writes His word on our hearts through you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I was disappointed today because the Revive concert was cancelled, but still thankful for forgiveness, salvation, my sweetie’s willingness to take me, and blog friends! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Oh no. I wasn’t sure what day it was on. 🙁 Thanking Him too, for your sweetie. That was precious and so appreciated by you. Love that! And pray you get to see them the next time they pass through!

  7393. “Freedom from fear or condemnation…”

    I know that’s what it means to accept Christ and be forgiven by Him. But lately, I’m starting to believe that my faith frees me from people and their judgement, too.

    “Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them.”

    Reply

    • Linda, I think real faith does free us from condemnation by other people. For some reason your comment made me think of the story of the woman caught in adultery in John 8:

      9 At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 10 Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”
      11 “No one, sir,” she said.
      “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”

      We are blessed because we have the forgiveness of God. If others judge, it’s because they didn’t pay attention when Jesus told those without sin to throw the first stone. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Awesome verse… thank you for that.

        When I was in one of my pray-for-celebrities periods, I posted a story in my newspaper blog about praying for Lindsey Lohan. I told that same story in laymans terms, cited the verse, and of course took a wild beating from the pagans who hate all my stuff anyway.

        I still stand by that story for me, all the bad girls in the news, and anyone who has ever sinned. Nice memories… : )

  7394. Thanks, Linda

    Salvation is such a wonderful gift. Thankful for your sharing and thankful for the way He’s using you!

    I spoke to a sister today about the gift of salvation and how He died for EVERY single sin we will ever commit… And now I pop in here and find this. How amazing is that?!

    Thanks again. A multitude of blessings to you and yours.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, That gives me an idea for another poem, an acrostic with the word “salvation!” Maybe next week. 😉 Have I mentioned lately how thankful I am that you suggested Thankful Thursday? I’ve have really been enjoying the weekly nudge to write poetry, moving into territory where I need to rely on Him even more. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. I have to give the Holy Spirit credit for the creativity. He has really brought out the poet in me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Linda, I absolutely love dancing! When I was a kid I wanted to be a dance choreographer. I’d probably be in better shape now if I’d stuck with that dream. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7397. Thanks Linda 🙂

    I like dancing with Him. I don’t know who wrote this either but it warms me each time I read it. Thanks for sharing 🙂

    Dancing,
    🙂 Ann 🙂

    Reply

  7399. I loved the song . . .loved that your sweetie is taking you! 🙂 Now you have me thinking and wanting more and more to be that city on a hill. Shining. God bless you so much and all the ways He shines in you!

    Reply

    • Deb, When my son first heard Revive he said they are better than Third Day. I disagreed at the time, but with their second CD in the US I finding I like them more and more. All their music so glorifies God, and I so excited about worshipping with them tomorrow night! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Rea, I love to dance and am looking forward to the day when I can start dancing with Him! Right now, I think I’m at that point where my tiny feet are following His, but they have a lot of growing still to do. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7401. Beautiful! Blessings to you! My writing has slowed a little but not stopping! Our family has a lot going on right now. My Father in Law has cancer, my son just moved from one state to another, my dad is retiring from the ministry in June and I am planning a retirement event long distance and my son gets married in August. Such a ‘boring life’ LOL! Right now, God is carrying me a lot!

    Reply

    • Rea, I particularly loved the comments on this one, like what a blessing this song was for Deb! God made something out of my nothing again! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7403. That ‘not good enough’ is quite a baggage — “Whatever I do will not be good enough to pay for my sins thus I’m not going to heaven!” Why is it so hard sometimes to accept that He loves us?

    Thanks for the reassurance Linda! 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I think it is hard for some people because of pride. We don’t want to let go of the notion that we could do it ourselves, we could be perfect, if only we would just try hard enough. I read a great post yesterday at Out of Eden Ministries (see my blogroll for link) about God’s Unreasonable Love. You would enjoy it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7404. While i am not familiar with the bible and the bible stories, i can see that your faith in it is very strong. Thanks for sharing and God Bless, Lisa 🙂

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting. The interesting thing about faith is that it comes directly from God and He will give the measure of faith a person desires to have. I can’t imagine life without Him. 🙂 By the way, your White Chocolate Coconut Blondies were a HUGE hit at work, where I had to take some to prevent myself from eating almost the entire pan myself. I will be checking out some of your other recipes, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7405. Linda . . .God bless you for such a powerful and plainly written account of God’s love for us and His promise of salvation. You are right, John has a different appeal in his recording and now I can see that it’s the assurance that he wants us to have in Christ as our Savior and in our salvation through Him. I got that desire from you too, for us to know Him and His love for us, for everyone to know that He has come to save.
    Thank you!!!!!

    Reply

    • Deb, Like John I believe knowing, truly knowing, God’s love is so important and a message worth sharing. If I can help just one person be sure of God’s love, then I have done something that is pleasing to God. I think of Theresa Moore’s posts about not being sure when she was a new Christian, and I just don’t think anyone should have to be unsure. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7406. Thanks Linda

    “None of us is perfect and completely sinless. If we were, we would not need a savior. But we do need Him, and we thrive best knowing that He is faithful in His promise of salvation for those who believe.”
    As a new believer, I was advised to read John’s record of the Gospel first. I read it, but I didn’t get it… It was many, many years afterwards that I could see the distinction in the way the books were written.

    I too am thankful for the assurance of salvation. It’s great to know that Jesus chose to love me, regardless.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, When I was baptized my husband gave me an NIV study Bible. It was while I was in law school. For some reason, I decided to start with Job. I didn’t make it very far and it was a long time before I picked up my Bible again. Sometimes I wish I had started with John because his account of his experience walking and talking with Jesus has been such a blessing to me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7407. Love you, Linda! Just to let you know . . .loved this song. AND, Aub was having a hard time, getting upset, starting to hit herself then this song started up. It worked miracles on her and she started dancing in her seat. 🙂 God said what He needed to say through you and this song today! yay!
    God bless you as you listen for Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, That is so awesome! This really made me smile and appreciate how great is our God. Once again, what I thought was a lame post was just what needed to be posted. 🙂 Now I’m going to have this song playing in my head all afternoon with a smile on my face. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7408. Thanks, Linda 🙂

    Sometimes ‘nothing’ adds up to so much! 🙂 Thanks for sharing. I like that line too … “If the idea’s mine it’s nothing but a waste of time” – all about Him or nothing at all.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7409. Thank you, Linda

    Never made the Judas/Jesus connection in verse 9 at all. Thanks too for pointing that out 🙂

    [P.S. Why did I see Job in verses 6-9? Thanks for your thoughts]

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7410. Thank you Linda, for pointing that out to us, about it being prophetic of Judas. I’m at that part of Luke, the last supper and so this blessed me! Praying that your day is blessed too!

    Reply

    • Deb, It just seems appropriate to me to focus on the prophetic Psalms as much as possible during the season of Lent. Also, I am reading a book called The Day Christ Died, which I read before about 10 years ago. I’m hoping to finish it again between now and Easter and do a review of it. I was reading it last night and am at the part about the Last Supper, too. Looking forward to your Last Supper post! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7411. Thanks for posting this Linda, I may well need to read Reflections! The final verses of 137 have been a big source of questions for me. Surprised by Joy is one of my favourites – when I was in that painful gap between believing in God but not quite ‘getting’ Jesus, I read SBJ and seeing that CSL went through a similar experience was helpful – I’d be interested to know how an established Christian viewed it.

    Reply

    • Char, I haven’t read Surprised by Joy yet, though I do own it because it was part of a box set Christmas present many years ago. The question of whether I have read it has come up several times over the past year as I have posted about other Lewis books I’ve read. I guess it may be time to check it out. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7412. whoa . . .you ladies have more brain power than I do. 🙂 I have thought about those psalms. And found some vindication in them at times when I was going through tough stuff. I love what you discovered from Mr. Lewis about this. He’s so good. Deep and a little challenging for me, but good. Right down your alley, Linda! But, also, have to go for mercy, personally. Thanks so much for leading us on in knowing more and more of God!

    Reply

    • Deb, This topic is challenging for me, too, but it’s more of a heart challenge than an intellectual challenge. I do love learning from Lewis, though. For an intellectual, he definitely had a heart for God. Just like you do! Even though your blogging may not be as intellectual, you always make me think in ways I hadn’t before. I’m blessed to have you along on my journey of knowing God better, too! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7413. “Hateful to God as well as the victim.”

    For awhile, I prayed that I would love what God loves, and hate what God hates. I, too, was conflicted about what I was reading in David’s cries for vengence and Jesus’s commands to love.

    “God will treat the truly wicked in such a way…” where abused women and children are concerned. For victims of domestic violence, the cursing psalms become a message of hope and justice from a loving God who will protect His children. God is a God of justice, whether you’re David or the lady down the street.

    I’ve been a “vindictive Psalmist,” but I have also prayed for repentance and salvation for the lost, even while on the other side of a locked door. That story is not finished yet, and God is still working. When it’s ready to be told, He will get all the glory, and I can’t wait!

    Thanks for shedding another light on the mercy challenge. Always more to pray about, more to learn… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I knew you would appreciate this one. I thought of you and our comment conversations about mercy and vengeance when I read the chapter in Reflections on the Psalms. I think having had that conversation was one of the reasons I was compelled to go back and reread this chapter. That, and the fact that I can never learn all there is to learn from Lewis on a single reading.

      I think was scares me most about vindictive prayers is that they remind me of the vindictiveness towards an individual that once almost consumed me. It did consume my every waking thought for a period of time in a way that is hard to comprehend now. If not for God showing me the wisdom of forgiveness and mercy, I think it might have killed me, or worse.

      I am so blessed to be traveling this journey of learning to be what God wants us to be, and having you be part of my journey. He will get all the glory for what we are meant to be, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • In AA we ask, “why are you letting someone live in your head rent free?” : )

        I’ve gone the route of obsessive thinking, too. And you know you’ve seen a miracle when through God’s mercy and grace, those thoughts are lifted like no amount of trying could ever achieve.

        God’s will? Of course He doesn’t want us to think that way. No wonder He’s willing to do that for His children… : )

      • Linda, I love that AA saying. It reminds me of something a long-time friend of mine who is a counselor always says, which goes something like this: If you react to what other people do to you in a negative way then you are giving up your control of how you act and think to them. You have to decide who you are and who you want to be, and respond accordingly regardless of how another treats you. I’ve found, though, that without God’s grace and mercy I am unable to maintain control no matter how hard I try. The miracle of His power is quite awesome, indeed. 🙂 Peace, Linda

  7414. Linda, I hadn’t heard holiness put in that way either, but I loved it – having read some of the book I’m working on, you can understand why! It fits so beautifully!

    By the way, I like the new pic at the top of your blog. Very warm and, I think, inviting.

    Reply

    • Pete, You actually crossed my mind when I posted this. Love – real love like Jesus modeled – is really the answer to all the world’s problems. I’m so glad you like the new banner picture. It is a wood carving my son made for me just the other day! He’s also working on a drawing for me that includes the many names of Jesus and a cross in the middle. I was anxious for him to get it done so I could post it, but now that I have this one I can be a bit more patient as the drawing will definitely be more work for him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7415. Imprecatory psalms…these have often been difficult for me, especially in responsive readings. I have not read that particular book by C.S. Lewis. I am inclined to agree with your concluding thoughts. I have written a little on this subject. There is a portion of Psalm 139 that touches on this subject. I wrote a post in February of 2010 that express my thoughts. Let me know if you would like the link.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, I often find that Lewis’ insight on a subject is very valuable for my understanding of it, and this was no exception. I would love to read your post on Psalm 139 and would appreciate the link. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Theresa, I have Surprised by Joy, but I haven’t read it yet but have heard it is very good. I did recently read A Grief Observed that he wrote after his wife Joy died. I also love Mere Christianity, and he has written some terrific essays. The Space Trilogy was also very good, though book 3 was hard to get through. Needless to say, I think anything by Lewis is worth reading. Thanks for the link. I will check it out. Peace, Linda

  7416. Thank you, Linda

    What a wonderful post!! Thanks for sharing what you’re learning. Can’t recall reading this C.S. Lewis at all …

    “I still believe that the better course of action, when faced with someone who has committed an evil act, is to pray for their repentance and salvation. It is far better, in God’s kingdom, that the lost be found than that they be abandoned.”
    Here we go with the ‘Mercy’ theme again 🙂 . I like that very much.

    It is better to ask God to change the oppressors than to kill them in their sin … It may seem painful at times but it’s always better to leave the terms of repayment to God.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, This is not one of Lewis’ better known works, but I am enjoying it so far. I own almost everything he has ever written and find I grow a lot in my understanding of things related to the Christian faith by reading his thoughts. I also appreciate that he never claims to have the difinitive answer; what he writes are simply his opinion and thoughts, though well reasoned and always based on scripture.

      Yes, I seem to be stuck on the mercy theme lately. I just think it is so important and so lacking in our society today, even among Christians. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Linda, So sorry. I will try to come up with a recipe that sounds terrible next week. 😉 Maybe, umm, let’s see . . . this is going to take some thought. No promises. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7419. I have never fixed corned beef. 🙂 I love how you change things up and get creative. My hubby doesn’t like barbeque sauce . . .but maybe he would like corned beef??? I need options here. ha! Thank you!!! You restore my kitchen sanity.

    Reply

    • Deb, I think if I had to cook for your husband I would go nuts! Who doesn’t like barbeque sauce? But you can certainly make corned beef without the barbeque sauce. I think the good old carrots and potatoes option is good, too. Peace and sanity, Linda

      Reply

      • Yes, that sounds good! 🙂 With a side dish of sanity. haha!
        Linda, just wanted you to know that I’m subscribed to your blog, and for this post, when I clicked to read more, it was saying there was an error. So, I clicked on your “home” button and was able to read. Might just be an isolated case, but thought I’d let you know . . .if views are down some today, that might be why!
        God bless you and your creative writing and cooking!

      • Deb, I did have a little glitch when I scheduled this post, and it posted my automatic Facebook link right away, too, even though it wasn’t actually posted. I don’t know what I did wrong, but hopefully it’s an isolated incident. Thanks for letting me know. Peace, Linda

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. Any friend of Linda’s over at Shoes is a friend of mine. If you like poetry, I post a poem for Thankful Thursday every week. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Will make it a point to pass through on Thursdays 🙂 Heck, as often as I can… but yeah, I love me some poetry! Trying to get back into the swing of things! Haven’t written myself in ages, but it is one of my passions…. 🙂

  7421. Thanks Linda,

    I like the way you took us through the whole story with so few words. Absolutely wonderful ! 🙂

    What else can I say? A Psalm! 🙂 🙂

    Praying He’ll continue to inspire your thoughts as you share His love. Thankful for the fulfillment of the prophecy that brought us hope 🙂 .

    Blessings,
    Ann

    Reply

  7422. Psalm 22 is about as direct as a prophecy can be and very comforting, indeed. How can skeptics see this as anything but evidence?

    What about the rest of prophecy, the verses that haven’t been fulfilled yet? I think we have every reason to believe that since so many already have, the others will be, too. But what about symbolism and interpretation, especially in the books of Daniel and Revelation?

    I believe, but it’s so complex… What do you think? : )

    Reply

    • Linda, If there were only Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53 as prophecy for Jesus’ death it would be enough for me. I don’t know how people can dismiss the many scriptures that prophecy His birth, death, and resurrection. I’ve studied the end times prophecies a little, but not enough to really be able to develop an opinion beyond believing that it will happen as God has planned. It is quite complex and I would love to learn more about it. But there is only so much time and I’ve decided it’s more important to understand how God wants me to live my life today and leave the end to Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7423. Wonderful thing to be thankful for and you do an amazing job at fitting a poem to it! I love knowing that Jesus fulfilled the prophecies in the Old Testament. What the bible says is true and all prophecy there will come to pass. 🙂 God bless you and thank you for being my place of rest and grace each Thursday!
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, You have been my poetry inspiration. I never really thought I could write poetry that anyone would want to read before you encouraged me so much. And I find that if my desire is to glorify God, He will give me the words. I’m so glad you can find a place of rest in my Thankful Thursday posts. 🙂 You deserve it! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7424. Yes I am glad today! 🙂

    I just loved this poem. I love what you were able to capture with those words. I also like the scripture that you shared…glad tidings, indeed!

    Reply

  7425. I like your poem. I, too am thankful for prophecy. This comes to mind:

    19We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

    20Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

    21For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. 2 Peter 1:19-21

    “Thankful”? Hmmm…

    Here is a word that I sometimes use: “Glad”…I am exceedingly glad that the Lord is patient when I doubt! 🙂

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

  7427. I wonder if Christians fail to realize the power that is available to them through the Holy Spirit, and for what reason that might be…

    I love all the verses you’ve cited here, and remember reading them the first time years ago. I’ve enjoyed studying this post because it helps me see the clear connection between them, and understand how the Holy Spirit is working in my life.

    I’ve mentioned that as an independant Bible student my first time through the Word, I had no one to teach me, but also no one to mess up the truth or minimize the real (not symbolic) role of the Holy Spirit in me.

    Today when I pray for words that would bless and encourage, I hear words coming from my mouth, but with the lovliness and grace of the one who is in me. There’s more to it than just being smart and nice…

    I disolve in tears and can never forget what a gift this is for those who believe.

    Your post made my day… like a wonderful trip down memory lane, and a reason today to be so grateful! Hugs… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I don’t think a lot of Christians realize the power of the Holy Spirit and that they can take hold of and use that power for His glory and their benefit. I’m so glad you enjoyed this post. It is encouraging to know that there are Christians who not only hear from the Holy Spirit, but follow through, and then give credit to Him for the words He gives. Peter and Paul were not eloquent speakers, but they converted crowds of people by saying what the Holy Spirit gave them to say. I know there are times I have also prayed for the right words in a situation, and there they are coming from my mouth, a wonderful gift from my God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7428. “credit where credit is due”… so sorry about the typos!!

    I honestly can’t see the screen no matter which way I look through my bifocals, and I even have special glasses just for the computer. The words move around a little on the screen, so what looks perfect when I proof it, always looks different when I post. This will be the thing that drives me insane. Just sayin’…

    Reply

    • Linda, Are you sure it’s not the tears in your eyes? 😉 Just kidding. No problem with a few typos, but I know what you mean. It drives me nuts when I think a comment is right on another blog and then I hit submit, and immediately see a typo. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7429. What a powerful visual your teaching creates: “His bleeding brow ringed with a crown of thorns.” Reading it feels painful.

    I thought I coined the phrase “to the moon and back” then ammended it occassionally by saying “to the moon and back times infinity.” Pretty clever, until now. Hats off to Little Brown Nut Hair for credit where credit is die! : )

    I remember riding home from Bible Study with some very holy religious people (see your list from from 3/23), and I said that I loved God to the moon and back times infinity. They scoffed, and frowned, and implied that I was disrespectful. Now that chuch is on my list of, “Churches that I’ve left along the way.” No wonder it’s so hard to worship Jesus!

    I really like your morning prayer, even though you feel your words are lacking. I once fretted over the fact that “thank you” is what I say to a carry out boy at the grocery store, so what are the right words to express my gratitude to Him.

    All good thoughts… reflections for another day. Hugs… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, When the idea for this post came to me during my prayer time, I had to get up twice to get a tissue. 🙂 Thinking of how much Jesus loves me was both painful and joyful at the same time. The carving that is in the picture came from a vacation in Mexico and hangs in my living room, one of the first things I see when I come in the house each evening. I love (and at the same time dislike) the look on His face because I can see both love and anguish in it.

      As for your Bible study folks, sounds like you were right to move on, though no doubt they could probably use our prayers. Maybe someday they’ll really see to picture of God’s love for them. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7430. I was convinced that Jesus loves the unholy the day he scooped me up and rescued me from the life I was living… a gift so full of love and mercy, who could ever forget?

    The pastor’s five learned characteristis for holiness made me think we were on “recipe day”… all the ingredients needed to make a perfect Pharisee! : ) I suppose we all think those things sometimes…

    My favorite part of today’s teaching is the translation of “perfect” into the Greek “telios” which means “complete”. Being complete is certainly more manageable than trying to be perfect. Who can love the unloveable when we ourselves are defeated by religious thinking that dwells on our sins and not on the joy was can bring when we love like Jesus.

    I love this stuff… could go on all day… could start talking about all the messed up people I’ve learned to love in AA, and how my heart belongs to all of them.

    Great post, lasting rewards for all who believe! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I’ve known for a long time that love is really the key to the Christian faith – God’s love for us and our love for others. After all, Jesus did say the first commandment was to love God and the second (which is like it) is to love our neighbor. But I had never put this together with the idea of being perfect before. It was a great sermon and I am so glad I could pass it along. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7431. Thank you, Linda

    This is a great post! Thanks for sharing 🙂

    As a child, I remember an inscription over the door of a church I attended: “holiness to be God’s standard for living”. I came away with the thought of halos and angels wings … As far as I could tell, I most certainly could never attain holiness 🙁

    “If we want to be holy we must love with a complete and perfect love that does not discriminate, but loves all the same.”
    The years have taught me much and each day I continue to learn. After my first brush with holiness, I later learned “Be ye holy, for I am holy ” (Ref 1 Pet 1:16) and over time, I came to see holiness differently. What you shared today is a brand new take on the issue! I thank you for letting us experience this with you.

    Praying He will “Purify my heart ” and teach me how to truly love.
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Y8zP34AhuU&feature=related

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I can relate to your feeling of never being able to attain an impossible standard of holiness. I know I will never be perfect; and at the same time know Jesus called us to be perfect. By looking at holiness in terms of love I feel like it is something I can, with His grace, attain. Thank you for sharing the video. I love that song. We used to sing it in church, but we haven’t sung it in a long time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7432. Wow Linda! I have never heard that before either and it blessed me so much. I was taken up again, reading your posts, by Jesus dying for His enemies, sinners, and the righteous alike. That really drives home what love is, what holiness is. Thank you so much. You share such great truths in such a Jesus way. So glad He has you doing this! God bless you and your life lived out for Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, I can’t take credit for the whole idea. But when I hear a message like this that is so wonderful and helps me to grow, I just have to share. I am so glad He has me blogging, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7435. Thank you, Linda

    Nothing else can cleanse us at all 🙂

    Thanks for the video. What a reminder of what He endured. May I also never forget what He bore to buy my freedom. I am indeed “unworthy of His blood” but happy He took the way of the cross for me.

    Preparations are in gear for Easter production. Please help us pray that souls would be born for His kingdom.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Glad you enjoyed the video. I’ve become a big fan of Jars of Clay lately, though I remain a much bigger fan of Jesus! I will pray for your Easter production; wish I could be there to see it. You’ll have to let us know how it goes. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7436. Thanks Linda

    “To the cross … and back” …. Wow. That’s deep. Very deep.

    Makes me want to ask “How can I say thanks for the thing He has done for me?” … Really, how can I?

    Linda, this is an absolutely wonderful post. Thank you for sharing it with us.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7437. Linda, when I got to what God told you, that He loved you to the cross and back . . .I began to cry. He’s been working on me lately and it’s a little hard to take in. But, it’s because He loves me more. Thank you so much, Linda, for letting Him speak to me, through you, today.
    God bless you and show you His love throughout your day.

    Reply

    • Deb, I don’t know why this occurred to me, but I was thinking that Aubrey would really enjoy “Guess How Much I Love You.” I’m so glad this post reminded you of how much He loves you today. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7438. Can I just say what a relief to find someone who actually knows what theyre talking about on the internet. You definitely know how to bring an issue to light and make it important. More people need to read this and understand this side of the stor. I cant believe youre not even more popular than you are because you definitely have a gift.

    Reply

  7439. Me again… When you told me about the post discussing the Holy Spirit, I figured this has to be it. I remember reading it the first time in the morning, thinking about it with gratitude all day, then finally writing a comment.

    The Holy Spirit speaks to me, too. Last winter, I was going through a long period of prayer, meditation, and study. It was really intense.

    One night, I woke up and the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart regarding the matters that were dominating my prayer life. His instruction was for ME to be the one to change, and there was even a “list” of issues I had to address. I wrote everything down, slept a little, got up and knew exactly what I had to do. (I wrote it all down in my little book!) And my life was changed. It’s true.

    I’ve never experienced anything like that. I understand the story about your collegue. It’s the best, isn’t it? Glad I turned back and got to read this again! Thanks… : )

    Reply

  7440. Regarding beauty, it’s not parents who teach their kids what’s important, it’s the other kids who tell them. Some of us were duped for awhile, and others are duped forever… an addiction that’s as tough to break as alcohol and cigarettes.

    “What should we be teaching our sons to appreciate in a woman?” I don’t know if a mother’s wisdom can trump male hormones and the desire for Cindy Crawford and all the rest.

    Verse 31 says, “Beauty does not last”. True, but with today’s dermatological grab bag of serums and syringes, it can be sustained for a very long time. I posted a new pic on my home page to illustrate my point. No photoshop, only sunscreen and modern science.

    Destructive, and lies of the devil. That’s a good way to put it. But the source of this problem is just as significant as Proverbs 31 , which I used to have taped up in my dressing room.

    Your post makes me think of a kid in sixth grade who started me on my journey of low self-esteem and vanity. If I write a post about that experience, can’t I use a link back to this post offering Proverbs 31 as the solution? Hmmm

    Reply

    • Linda, The problem is complex indeed. I have a friend who is the same height as me and weighs 65 pounds less – I haven’t been her weight in 20 years – yet she complains about how fat she is! It drives me nuts. (I have to admit, though, that I hadn’t done the math for the last sentence – made me feel less than beautiful.) But I do know that internal beauty is more valuable to God. Which is not to say we shouldn’t care about keeping the outside looking healthy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7441. I really liked this too, Linda. I listened first and then read your intro . . .so that is who I heard along with Jars of Clay. God really uses those Blind Boys in marvelous ways. The visual with the song . . .was hard. But, I need to know that too. I get so accustomed to saying that He died for me. I don’t want the reality of what that actually means to slip away.
    God bless you for these very special posts!

    Reply

    • Deb, We went to see The Passion of the Christ when it came out in theaters. I wanted to close my eyes often during the movie, but I didn’t because I wanted to always remember what He did for me. I also own it in DVD, but have never watched it again. I’m glad you enjoyed the song. It’s my favorite on that CD. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7442. Thank you so much for sharing this, Linda. My friend Joan who is in Jerusalem, has had dear friends and acquaintances ask her about that, having been called “Christ killers” in their youth. She loves being able to share the truth with them, that He laid down His life for us all. . .that He was the only sacrifice that would do.
    God bless you and hold you close as you mourn and rejoice . . .all for your Jesus!

    Reply

    • April, Yes, just as He explained to the disciples on the road to Emmaus that you wrote about yesterday, what was written in the Law and the Prophets, and all of Scripture, is ultimately about Him and His redeeming grace. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7444. Thank you, Linda

    “it was the sin of man that was the ultimate cause of Jesus’ death, the thing without which it would have never occurred because it would have been unnecessary.”
    This pointed truth made me think of Ray Boltz “Who nailed Him there?” … our sins… He took it all upon Himself and gave His life to buy my freedom. I get excited around Easter but Good Friday brings me to tears.

    There may have been hope or despair as to what would happen next for those who watched Him breath His last on that first Good Friday. We’re blessed because we know that He has risen but still it hurts to see how much He suffered … for me 🙁

    Thanks for the song, Linda. Thankful He went through that for me. Praying I’ll never take His sacrifice for granted.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I often wonder what it was like for John, Peter, Mary, and the others as they watched Him die, not knowing what was to come (although He had told them – it was just outside the realm of their experience and understanding). I am so glad that we know “the rest of the story,” as Paul Harvey would say. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7445. Linda, one of the best things that ever happened to me with Jesus is when I learned to dismiss the accusations, pray for the accuser, and still treat them well. I am so unlike before who won’t miss the chance to get back at the offender with the intention of hurting way beyond I was hurt. Funny how I felt such a loser after ‘winning’ the war.

    Love and humility in Christ are still the perfect weapon that can caught off guard the opponent to surrender in peace.
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, It is wonderful to have learned this lesson from Jesus, isn’t it? It brings so much peace. And I love what you added about the opponent being caught off guard by our responding with love and humility! Perhaps as a result they will come to know Him and be changed, too. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7446. Thank you, Linda

    The nations are angry but I’m thankful that not only can I take refuge in Him, but I can also experience joy – even in the midst of the anger.

    Echoing Deb 🙂

    Thanks for sharing!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7447. I can’t believe I missed this. I never saw the foreshadowing of Christ’s coming until you pointed it out. And now that I see it, it’s quite clear.

    My first time through the Bible I was very isolated– no church, no friends. So I took everything at face value. I think that’s why I crave good teaching so much. It was hard on my own.

    Thanks for this solid and memorable lesson today! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I’m so glad I was able to point out Christ in this Psalm. I have been fascinated by the many places He is present or foreshadowed in the Old Testament ever since one day when I was reading through Luke, and in the story of when Jesus appeared to the disciples on the road to Emmaus after His death it says, “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.” Luke 24:27. Since the New Testament didn’t yet exist, the Scriptures Jesus referred to were the Old Testament books. I’ve had my eye and my heart open to finding Him there ever since. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7449. Linda,

    This is such a good post! I also identify with your incident.

    I have had a few blow ups with my kids that started when I was being unfairly criticized by them. I knew it was a weakness and would pray about it (still do), and even had some occasions where I actually behaved the right way…but the memories of the times I didn’t have been a source of torment at times. When the person you hurt happens to be the son you passionately love it is so painful, and you find yourself longing to be able to go back in time and behave differently.

    There were fewer incidents that involved people out in the world, but I can say something that some might find humorous. There have been times when I have been with my kids somewhere and someone would speak to me in a way that upset me, and I would remain calm and not say much like you mentioned in your post. But I overheard the kids a short distance away commenting to each other…”Look at mom. She’s blinking! She’s blinking and flashing…she must be mad!” Then of course they got to hear all about it in the car which probably wasn’t pleasing to the Lord. 🙂

    Thank you for this important reminder of learning to not be so defensive.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, I also have those times I’ve lost my temper with my son and wish I could take it back and heal the hurt it caused. It was usually over something stupid, just me being frustrated. It is actually some of the words that come out of my mouth towards him that God showed me when I was struggling with my poem on gentleness. I do find that the more I trust in Him, the more thoughtful I am about what I say and how I say it. Jesus really gets all the credit for that change in me. And somehow, in spite of my temper, my son still tells me I’m the best mom in the world. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Mine tells me the same thing. I miss him so much. He is 23 and lives out of state now. Remember me in your prayers. The past couple years have been full of so much change…and some changes are harder than others.

        Blessings,
        Theresa

      • Theresa, I will certainly keep you in my prayers. My son just turned 16, and I’m just starting to realize he won’t always be just in the next room. A couple of weeks ago I posted the video of the song “Boys (Lesson One)” by Jars of Clay. It is supposed to be a father talking to his son, but it could easily be a mother. There are some lyrics of that song that bring tears to my eyes because I know my son will “weather love and lose his innocence” and that “there will be liars and thieves who take from” him, and I just want to keep him and protect him forever. I know I can’t – And I really deep down do not want to. I want him to grow and love and experience all that God has in store for him. Okay, I’ve gone on and on, and probably didn’t make you feel any better, but just know you are not alone. Peace, Linda

  7450. So beautifully and honestly put. There is so much power in staying silent.

    I can’t express how happy I am to report that I haven’t lost control in anger in at least five years. Truth is, every time I yelled, accused, and threw things, I was the one who looked crazy and risked turning an argument into violence against me. I can say from experience that Jesus’s example has been a true blessing for me.

    Jesus used the power of silence to His advantage all the time… didn’t even raise His voice when casting out demons. “Yet He did not open His mouth, even in the face of the worst accusations.

    As you wrote in your story, your anger may have been justified, but would you rather be happy or right? : )

    Reply

    • Linda, The incident I mentioned in the post was about 8 years ago, and was not the last time I lost my temper but it’s the last time I did so as publicly as that incident. I am so blessed that He has not only given me His example, but He has also given me His Holy Spirit to guide me and give me the strength to remain silent. I’ve seen the blessings that come from that reaction numerous times in the last few years. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7451. Thank you, Linda

    “I have since learned there is a better way to deal with complaints, accusations, and persecution. The better way is to follow Jesus’ example of staying calm in the face of opposition. Often, by staying calm and saying nothing until the time is right, we allow others to see the falsity of the accusations against us rather than being convinced by our angry response that the accusations must be true. The saying “Methinks the lady doth protest too much” from Hamlet comes to mind.”

    I groan… I groan deeply.

    Learning to trust Him to be my advocate. I confess I don’t always ‘patiently wait’. Sometimes I wait but in my waiting I am hurt and disappointed but I fight the natural instinct as you point out. I have much to learn, yet. It’s not easy taking the fall when one is innocent. I’m glad He did it for me and I’m praying He’ll help me to follow His lead.

    What Deb said. Thanks again for sharing.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I can’t say that I have learned to wait without feeling the hurt and disappointment, and even feeling quite angry; but by trusting in Jesus I have been able to keep that between Him and me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7452. I know how hard that is to do, Linda, and have failed at it before as well. The times I have remained calm though brought such a peace. Praying to hold on to this advice, pray that it be ingrained into me . . .my natural unnatural response! 🙂 It is just things like this that glorify God, even if we suffer damage from it. It may glorify Him more for us to suffer that before men, then to lift up ourselves and our rights before Him.
    God bless you and all the ways you are glorifying Him today!

    Reply

    • Deb, The more I rely on Him the better I get at remaining calm. He is so faithful if we will just ask for His help! And He does then bring peace, doesn’t He? Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Had to come back after reading Theresa’s comments and your replies. This is so me too, with my kids. Just sayin’ . . .confessing. 🙂 With Aub . . .it’s so important for me to stay calm and silent. No matter what. And I don’t always do it, give in sometimes to the temptation to defend myself. sigh. Things can get ugly real quick with her, if she feels pushed or challenged, especially if she is extra tired. It’s better to stay silent during a verbal attack from her than to verbalize back and have it go into a full scale physical attack. These happen less and less, but do still happen. I wanted you go know how much this post spoke to me along those lines. Thank you!

    • Theresa, Thank you. I was quite blessed by what He gave me on gentleness, too! When I started the poem (Peace was actually the first stanza I wrote – then He prompted me to do all the Fruit of the Spirit), I had no idea what He was planning to teach me and change in me. What an awesome God we serve and worship! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7454. “The opposite of gentleness is exhibited in your own speech…”

    Might that be an occupational hazard? I can’t believe that’s the real you, because you’ve been such an encouragement to me.

    I would rank this poem along the same lines as the writngs of Isaiah. More powerful, aggressive, and almost prophetic compared to the first two in the “Fruit” series. Oddly enough, they were more gentle… don’t you think?

    I love that God “gives you” your words and you just follow his leading. Astounding, and so beautiful. I’ve enjoyed these poems very much! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, The “natural” me can certainly have a sharp tongue, but I try to let the Spirit be in control of my tone. It’s easier in my writing. I’m not sure I can blame it on occupation – it’s been a character trait since long before I went to law school.

      I’m not sure what to say about being compared to Isaiah! That’s one of my favorite books. I do agree that this poem is more agressive. I also noticed as I just went back and re-read all three that this one was more personal, with more lines where “I” need the Spirit. Maybe it’s because the Spirit knows these are the areas I need the most work on and so He was speaking more powerfully to me about these characteristics.

      I don’t know if you saw my post the first week of January where I wrote about the Holy Spirit needing to get more credit, and my pledge to try to give Him more of the credit. I know that I could not write poetry without the inspiration of the Spirit. I’m so glad you have enjoyed these poems. I’ve enjoyed letting God help me write them. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7455. I like most coleslaw anyway, so I’m looking forward to this too! With or without spring. ha!
    God bless you for including us in your kitchen!

    Reply

  7456. Thanks, Linda!

    I’ll try this one for sure! 🙂 ( I’ll have to sub though as I can’t eat some of the ingredients in the dressing… )

    I can see this one easily being ‘the life of the party’!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Hopefully you can find a dressing that is similar in taste since it is really the dressing that makes this coleslaw. I actually haven’t taken it to a party yet, but I may this summer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Thanks Linda
        Oh dear 🙁 What then shall I do? I wonder if i could gamble at making one … I may have to experiment a bit but who knows ? 🙂

        Kudos to Martin’s for using Palm oil from sustainable sources 🙂 I’m not a tree hugger but I do my best to support establishments that deal in fair trade and encourage sustainability. (I may not be able to have the dressing but I have sent them a note to let them know how happy I am about this fact. 😉 )

        Blessings and thanks again,
        ann

      • Ann, One option would be to reduce the amount of the dressing in the recipe. It has such a rich flavor that it really doesn’t take much. You could probably get by with maybe a tablespoon of it in the whole salad and then stretch it with an light-flavored oil that you can have. Peace, Linda

  7457. Thank you so much Linda for that award …but I really do not know how to pick it up…You have been a blessing in my life and I thank God for all the efforts you do for the Kingdom of God.

    May God Bless You,
    Rani John

    Reply

  7458. Linda… Thank you so much for my Versatile Blogger Award. For a gal who always stuggles with wanting to fit in, I feel like I’m suddenly part of a team who writes with passion and integriy… a real honor!

    Do you know if I can put that logo in my sidebar? It would be nice to look at it every day, just as a reminder…

    Thanks again!

    Reply

    • Linda, You make a wonderful addition to Team Jesus! It is an honor to be on the same team as you. I think putting the award in your sidebar is the whole purpose. I’ve been meaning to put it in mine; it’s just been a crazy day so no time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7459. Linda! I loved what you came up with, with His help! I’m going to copy and post these where I can read them often. They are each so good and really portray the fruit of the spirit they spell out. I need lots of reminders. Lots and lots!
    God bless you and all you do in Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, I felt blessed that He gave me the words for this poem. I actually put all 9 stanzas together and submitted it as a single poem to Idylls for the King. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7461. Thank you, Linda
    I like the entire poem but this part drew my attention
    “The Spirit in control of my tongue
    Lest another’s spirit I bleed ”

    Praying I’ll be attuned to His promptings to tread carefully … even when I’m wronged.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, This is definitely an area where I will never succeed without the Holy Spirit. James knew what he was talking about when he wrote: “Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.” James 3:5. Only God can tame the tongue of man. I will second your prayer, trusting He will answer. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7462. Thanks, Linda, I just stopped by and am honored by your gift Like some of the other recipients mentioned, I don’t know that I could really be considered “versatile” in what I write, I am kind of stuck on one subject…but it sure is a great subject to be stuck on, isn’t it?

    God bless you, Linda, and thanks for taking the time to brighten the day of your fellow-bloggers with your wonderful encouragement!

    Reply

    • Loren, As I told Jim, you follow where God leads and that takes some versatility. And even though your overall subject – Jesus – may always be the same, you share so many different thoughts about different parts of the Bible that I think that makes you versatile, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7464. Thank you, Linda.

    Very thoughtful of you! ( Me? Versatile Blogger? 🙂 )

    I have to figure out how to return the favour since half my subscribers are non WordPress bloggers and each post goes out as an email …

    Thanks for considering me, Versatile One … 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7467. Thanks so much Linda,
    I don’t feel versatile, I sometimes feel my writing is predictable. I know that what I write does not come from me, but from God, he takes all the credit. Without Him, I have no words. God Bless sister!
    Jim

    Reply

  7468. Thank you sweet friend! 🙂 I really don’t know how to pick up the award, but I do appreciate you thinking of me. haha! I’m not so versatile, but you definitely are. God bless you and all the ways He is working through you today!

    Reply

  7469. Thank you, Linda

    ““For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven,
    And do not return there without watering the earth
    And making it bear and sprout,
    And furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater;
    So will My word be which goes forth from My mouth;
    It will not return to Me empty,
    Without accomplishing what I desire,
    And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.””

    That was plenty!!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7470. You found something beautiful to write about today . . .mercy! 🙂 I like that too, Linda, so much , that His word doesn’t return void. It has gotten so that I find I can’t usually send out a card without it already containing scripture on it or me putting a verse in it. I may not know what to say or which verse to use, but He always helps! 🙂
    God bless you and all that He is doing in you today!

    Reply

    • Deb, That is cool! I bet the people who receive your cards with scripture are truly blessed. I always love finding mercy in the Old Testament. It’s not something that was new with the incarnation and the New Testament. God has always been merciful. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7472. I am so glad the Lord’s ways are so much higher than ours.

    I found this part intriguing:

    “Our pastor pointed out that many scholars believe that the commander of the Lord’s army whom Joshua speaks to is Jesus, and I tend to agree with this. If this were not the case, I don’t think Joshua’s reaction to Him would have been quite as deferential.”
    “Joshua asks this man, standing alone with His sword drawn, if He is for the Israelites or for their enemies. The man responds, “Neither.” Joshua 5:14. He is not “for” anyone. He is the commander of God’s heavenly host. The real question is whether Joshua and the Israelites are on His side.”

    That really is something to consider!

    Thank you. This was encouraging.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

      • I understand. I wish to be on God’s side in that I want to yield to Him. But I am so grateful the Lord was on our side when He came and was crucified making a way for us to be on His side. 🙂

  7473. Thank you, Linda

    This is the song I play when life doesn’t make sense… (makes sense?) Sometimes I just don’t get what’s happening so I dive into this one and listen for His voice.

    Thanks for sharing. I need to hear Him speak today.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7474. what a thought provoking post – thank you, Linda! Sometimes I think we all need reminding that it’s not God who needs to change his act but us!

    and to Random Thinker: it’s not so long ago I was in a similar position to you. My advice would be to question constantly and talk to lots of different people about why they believe what they do. And read Mere Christianity by C.S.Lewis – it’s awesome, or The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel – who was an atheist when he started out, but not by the time he finished it. Good for a historical perspective. xxchar48

    Reply

    • The sermon definitely provoked me to start thinking about needing to be on God’s side and not expect Him to come over to mine. I’m glad you appreciated it. And thank you for the suggestions to Random Thinker. Those are both excellent books. You know, Lewis was also an atheist for a long time, which I think is why his logical arguments are so good. They were arguments he had to wrestle through himself. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • yes, have you ever read Surprised by Joy? When it comes to apologetics, I don’t think you can go far wrong with Lewis

      • I haven’t read that one yet. I did recently read A Grief Observed and wrote a book review of it in February. And I’ve read quite a few of his other books. I’m currently working my way through Reflections on the Psalms. Just finished a chapter on the complaint Psalms and need to reread. I can never quite grasp all Lewis has to say on the first read-through. Peace, Linda

  7475. Thank you, Linda

    In the moments when our own words fail, God provides assurance. Thanks for the many reminders that we are set-apart and ought to live that way – despite all else.

    The strategy doesn’t always have to make sense to me but I choose to trust Him!

    Blessings and thanks
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, That is definitely one of the things I took from this sermon – that the strategy doesn’t have to make sense to me to work. Though the closer I get to Him the more I come to see His strategy as actually making better sense for the bigger picture. But always to trust, that’s so important. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7476. Linda, this really encouraged me. I have those “Jericho’s” in my life and you’re right, things are going to happen differently then I might think and from what others might do. 🙂 Thank you so much for sharing this! God bless you as you keep leading us to Him and helping us learn that it’s about being on His side.

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad this was an encouragement. That idea of being on God’s side instead of Him being on our side really hit me on Sunday. I could just hear Jesus standing in front of Joshua and answering “Neither.” It is interesting, too, that the name Jesus is a derivative of Joshua, and both means Yahweh is Salvation. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7478. I’m going to re-start my morning Bible study, it really is one of those things where once you get the discipline and get down to it, you wonder why on earth it took so long to get going again!

    Reply

    • That’s awesome! I know I started a regular discipline of kneeling in prayer in the morning about a year ago, and the difference it has made has been tremendous. And yes, I wonder why it took so long. May the Lord bless you as you sit with Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7479. I am an atheist who most recently started to question my way of life. I struggle hard to define and understand faith, even though I want so badly to do so. Whenever I feel I need some spiritual guidance I jump on and read blogs. I want to thank you for your post.

    Reply

    • Thank you for stopping by and commenting. I am encouraged that someone who is a questioning atheist found something useful in my writing. Faith is sometimes hard for even those of us who have it to understand, and I strive to present my understanding of it in a way that is not condescending or arrogant, but is instead is loving and compassionate. It’s good to know I have succeeded, at least with this post. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7480. I am so encouraged by your time at church in His word and prayer, and praising Him too. Love this Mercy Me song. I have a question . . .have they ever done anything you haven’t liked? ha! They just seem to be in the Jesus zone, you know?
    God bless you and this special time of drawing closer to Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, You made me laugh! No, I’ve never heard a MercyMe song I didn’t absolutely love. And they are definitely in the Jesus zone, even in concert. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7481. The demands on my time and resources are very small. I have nothing but time to study and pray. But I’m in a terrible dry spell… I think since I started reading more blogs and writing about God myself, I somehow think that “counts”.

    I know better… have been blessed with long periods of steady prayer and its rewards.

    Now I pray for motivation, crawl into bed in an Ambien fog, and tell God I’m sorry for not doing a better job staying close to Him. I feel like this really restricts the power of the prayers I say for others…

    I pray that this post would be a good reminder and motivator to set aside that time each day…

    Reply

    • Linda, I can relate to the tendency to think reading blogs and writing my blog “count” for spending time with God. And my one day when I have all the time I want to spend with Him – Saturday – I tend to spend too much time online and writing blog posts for the week, and completely skip the prayer time I wouldn’t dream of skipping on a weekday morning. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7483. I am very glad I found your blog – resting in the Lord is something I am trying to learn (with little success…..)
    much love,
    char48

    Reply

    • Thank you for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. I looked at your blog a bit this morning, but didn’t have time to comment. I will be back. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7484. Thank you, Linda, for this post and the songs! I thought I hadn’t heard of Revive, but then when they sang “Chorus of the Saints”, I’ve heard that one and love it too.
    This is a tender subject, isn’t it? I feel guilty sometimes because God does allow me time to just be with Him. Not everyone has the type of situation that I do to have that time. I find that I really, really need that time and feel like I spend more time listening and just being with Him then I do praying at times. so need even more time for prayer. It’s kind of a balancing act and when you are working and caring for your family, that is not an easy thing to do.
    God bless you as you are at His feet, in your heart and mind, even when you can’t sit!

    Reply

    • Deb, I have no doubt you are making good use of that time just sitting with Him! I’m a little bit jealous, but really just rejoice that you have that because He knows you need it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7485. Thank you, Linda.

    I like what you said about other things being allotted into the 24 hours … I find it easy to book meetings and appointments and interviews for blocks of time yet the time I ‘set aside’ for Him bottoms out.

    I’m learning to make a conscious effort to daily spend time with Him even if I just sit there and force my mind to quiet before Him. Is it easy? Not at all! Is it worth it? Most definitely!

    Praying I’ll get to the point where I daily allot time for Him instead of slotting Him in at the last moment. We often spend so much time doing everything for everyone else that meeting with Him takes the back seat. 🙁

    Thanks for the song!

    Learning to balance,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I find that when I do start the day by setting aside time for Him, the rest of the day goes much more smoothly and seems less hectic (even if it really isn’t!). It is definitely worth it.

      And I just love the band Revive. I first saw them when the opened for Third Day and have been a fan ever since. They are coming to the Pacific Northwest at the end of this month, but both venues are a bit too far for me to go. 🙁 I’ve been posting on their Facebook page trying to get them to do a Portland gig, but so far one is not scheduled. They actually follow me on Twitter, so maybe they’ll see this and schedule something nearby after all. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7486. Thank you so much Linda for sharing this. I’m touched how someone could create miracles for others — so Jesus like.
    God bless the Mom and all the miracle workers 🙂

    Reply

  7488. I love how this Psalm is touching each of us! I am so blessed by the last line, “He rescued me because He delighted in me.” I don’t understand how that can even be possible! Oh yes I do . . .because of Jesus! 🙂
    God bless you and all the ways He is ministering to us through you!

    Reply

  7489. Lord have mercy…

    Could there have been a better Psalm for today? Not just the long list of natural disasters that have already occured, as well as those we’re likely to see in the future, but the blessed assurance that David reminds us of.

    “He rescued me because He delighted in me.” Praise God in advance for the souls that will be saved in this crisis…

    Reply

  7490. Linda,

    Thank you for posting this Psalm. One of my favorite parts is this one:

    “16 He reached down from on high and took hold of me;
    he drew me out of deep waters.
    17 He rescued me from my powerful enemy,
    from my foes, who were too strong for me.”

    Have you always posted Psalms on Sundays? I will have to look at some. I really love them.

    Blessings,
    Theresa

    Reply

    • Theresa, I just started posting Psalms on Sunday in 2011. When I took on the Post a Day 2011 challenge from WordPress I had to figure out how to accomplish that task without going nuts. I had occasionally just posted a Psalm on some days when I had nothing else to post before, so decided making it a regular Sunday theme would be fun. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7491. Thanks, Linda

    Can’t imagine why this line jumped at me the way it did ” … but the LORD was my support” but I’m hanging onto it!

    There have been many many incidents when I felt like the bottom of my world was falling out but He stepped in and made a difference.

    Thank you for sharing this, Linda. Praying we’ll continue to trust Him to support us when we feel like we’ve reached the end of our rope.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, He has been my support, too. I think my favorite verse of this Psalm, though, is verse 6. To think that the Lord would hear my cry from His temple is so comforting. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • April, You’re welcome. Looking at pictures online this morning of people walking through piles of rubble was just heartbreaking. They definitely need our prayers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7493. Dear Linda…
    You touched my heart with your prayers and true concern for the unsaved people of Japan. I didn’t know the stats for Christians were that low… God help them.

    I’ve been praying in agreement with much of what you posted today. And many of the details I already knew because I sat up most of the night watching the nuclear disaster unfold on TV. No wonder I couldn’t get back to sleep.

    I was thinking of the Israelites… how they were exiled/punished because they turned away from God… and in their stubborn arrogance and their CHOICE to reject their Creator… “you will be my children, and I will be your God”… He had no choice but to deliver drastic measures to get their attention and bring them back to Him.

    A parallel? Did they reject God long enough? Am I cruel to think such a thing? What do you think…?

    Hugs… : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I hesitate to attribute any natural disaster to God taking drastic measures to get people’s attention. I suppose sometimes that is what is happening with a natural disaster. But consider Job – a lot of bad things happened to him and it wasn’t to get him to turn back to God, it was to show Satan that God’s people won’t falter and curse Him. I also know that God will use this disaster to further His kingdom. The few believers that are in Japan – like my friend’s mom mentioned in my other post today – will not let the opportunity to minister to and show compassion on their unbelieving neighbors in the midst of this tragedy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Point well taken regarding Job. I believe in my heart that souls will be saved, even though the means is so disasterous. In prayer for all…

  7494. This post has me in tears too. I’ve only saw the video on Rea’s blog and it about did me in. Maybe yet another reason He has asked me to fast and pray. God bless you and keep you ever listening to His call and will.

    Reply

  7495. Linda, thank you for sharing this letter. It is so appropriate for today, as we pray and can’t all be there to help. That his mom continues to do what God has asked her to do, to love, regardless of how they respond . . .makes me cry. May I be found as faithful as that, with no hidden agendas. God bless you and hold you close through all that is happening and is yet to come.

    Reply

  7496. Thank you. So good to know God’s body is at work. I recently read Jerram Barr’s Learning Evangelism from Jesus. Jesus had that same “no agenda” way of loving people.

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. I haven’t heard of that book, but it sounds like a good one. I will have to check it out. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7497. Thank you, Linda

    Very kind and thoughtful of you. Thanks for being obedient to His direction. I’m praying alongside you.

    echo: “… let us not wait for the next natural disaster to remember to pray for those in need of Jesus’ saving grace throughout the world.”

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I must confess I am guilty of forgetting to pray for others worldwide until a disaster such as this strikes. This was a call to myself as much as to others to remember to pray. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7498. Wonderful story and recipe and post and son and momma . . .Okay, I am so glad to be here. But need to go bake something now!
    God bless the cooks and the kitchen and all the love they make and share!

    Reply

  7499. I liked your reply to Ann, that the Lord gives you these poems. I get my stories from the same place, but I haven’t heard anyone else mention “the source”. It feels great, doesn’t it…?

    “Developing character qualities in us, now that are God’s delight.” The fruit really is a gift. That explains why trying harder, or being more disciplined never worked for me. I am so blessed to be a new creature.

    Your poem was a wonderful blessing to finish the day! : )

    Reply

    • You’re funny. 🙂 That’s how I felt on Wednesday. Someone at work mentioned cookies and I remembered that these were sitting at home. I couldn’t get them off my mind all afternoon! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7505. So thankful for Thankful Thursday! I love how each fruit of the spirit kind of told it’s own story. Just so good, so good. 🙂 I loved that last line in Patience. Aubrey and I read a kids devotional by Ruth Graham once. The fruit of the spirit was in there too. We decided the ones we needed the most God help with were patience and self-control! 🙂 Wait seems to be a dirty word. ha! And self-control can fly out the window when we get told to wait. 🙂
    God bless you for easing my mind and heart and spirit here today. aaaahhh. I feel better now!

    Reply

    • Deb, Patience and self-control are challenging ones around here, too. But it seems gentleness is the one I’m having the most trouble with. Still have one week to figure out how to turn it into a poem. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Praying that He shows you something special in all of this, a surprise in the gentleness poem and how He brings it to you. 🙂

  7506. Thanks Linda,

    This is nice!! I’m hanging on to these lines
    “Divine love inspires thoughts of
    No one left behind to fall…”
    John 3 16 right there!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Yes, that is pretty much John 3:16 in a nutshell! I hadn’t thought of that. This whole Fruit of the Spirit poem (including last week’s, and next week’s) was such a blessing to me when the Lord gave it to me. Interestingly, though, next week’s is not yet done. He’s still working on Gentleness. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7509. Linda, I read this earlier today, but then had to go and pray about it. ha! See all the good that comes out of your posts? 🙂
    I haven’t done things before for lent. I love what you are doing at church . . .outstanding. And I love the thought of doing something, adding something, to our routines, to draw us closer to Him. That is really beautiful. 🙂
    As I prayed about it today, the same thing that He has been asking me to do was what came out of it. It is kind of an adding and a taking away. So praying that I can step up and begin in earnest during this special time . . .and that it lasts a life time. 🙂 My thing to do is to fast and pray two days a week. Fasting is hard for me . . .too food addicted and staying focused and disciplined in prayer is hard too for me. . .to ADHD. Must be why He’s asked me to do this, eh? ha! So thank you and God bless you for confirming and bringing this to me today!

    Reply

    • Deb, That is awesome! I have only fasted one time in my life, and I felt I was clearly called to do so. It was in preparation for a women’s retreat at which I was scheduled to give my testimony. I fasted all day until dinner. I was so worried that I would be hungry and have low blood sugar issues, especially since I had to drive over an hour to get to the retreat. But I wasn’t hungry at all that day! Jesus said, “Man does not live on bread alone,” and He was right. I will pray for His strength to follow through what He has asked. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7510. Not counting my tiny-precious-Yorkie-Niles, Alzheimer’s Disease has already taken away every pleasurable thing worth sacrificing. I was quiet over dinner while I considered the possibilities, and decided that being a caregiver to someone with this disease is enough.

    Observing Lent with a church family would be the best… eager to hear how the Wordstrong program blesses you all…

    Reply

      • Linda, Of course, I had to have an easy way to get to your blog whenever I wanted. And your blog is definitely one worth directing others to. Peace, Linda

    • Linda, In your situation, I definitely recommend adding some wonderful new habit for Lent, something that will make you think of God, instead of giving something up. Sounds like you’ve given up a lot already. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7511. Thanks for sharing, Linda

    “The true end of discipline is a relationship with God that results in an abundance of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”

    I love the application 🙂 Between yourself and Ben, I’ve been doing more reading (of parts of the Bible that’s not necessarily ‘favourites 😉 ) I was told some time ago that you will most what you spend most of your time doing. If I spend more of my time with Him, then I should become more like Him, yes? Working on bearing the fruit!

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Thanks for the comment. Yes, for me chocolate is probably the most difficult thing to give up because then it is just on my mind all the time. I much prefer adding a good habit to my discipline. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7514. That is an interesting idea and a cool way to go about it. And I love the thought that the end of discipline, whatever form it takes, is to grow closer to God. I have never formally given up anything for lent, but I like the idea behind it. Good job to your and your congregation!

    In Christ,
    Ben

    Reply

    • Ben, I’ve never successfully given up anything for Lent, either. But I did notice last year when I started blogging every day for Lent it turned out that I did have to give up time spent on something less productive, but it was more of a by-product of doing something for God than a conscious decision to give it up. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I’ve tried giving up chocolate for Lent, but I find I then focus more on the thing I give up and not on God, which kind of defeats the purpose of Lent. I could stand to give up high calorie foods in general, too, to lose a few pounds. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7519. I’m so thankful that you kept journals and wrote so many poems, and share that with us to help us now wherever we are at. (did that make sense?) Sometimes I don’t think much is happening at all, but will trust that He is getting me where He wants me and accomplishing all He has planned.
    God bless you and your heart’s desire to be fully His!

    Reply

    • Deb, You made perfect sense to me! I’m actually coming close to running out of useful stuff from my journals. There’s other stuff that I would never post, but I think I only have a couple more poems left that I haven’t posted, and the one about the fungus on my rose bushes will NEVER see the light of blog! 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • April, There’s a line in the song “Somewhere in the Middle” by Casting Crowns that asks “Would we trade our dream for His?” I know in my heart that His dream for me, His plan for me, is so much better. Don’t know why I also want to hang onto my own plan sometimes. It think it’s time for a trade! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7522. Thank you, Linda

    I’m praying your prayer too 🙂

    You made *me* look back over the last ten plus years just now … Thanks 🙂 I’m thankful for where I am today. The hills and valleys presented their own unique challenges but He was there all the time. I didn’t always see His plan but like you, I learned to trust Him.

    Here’s Babbie Mason – Trust His Heart ( This was my anthem during those times when the fog got too thick…)

    “God is too wise to be mistaken God is too good to be unkind
    So when you don’t understand , when you don’t see His plan
    When you can’t trace His hand Trust His heart”

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9743PE3GXE&feature=related

    Trusting,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for adding that beautiful video! It is so wonderful to know that He is always there through the hills and the valleys, and while we pace on the plateaus. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7523. Oh this was so beautiful. 🙂 Aubrey listened too and said, “She was really nice to share that with us.” I agree! 🙂
    God bless you for the shelter you provide us here in your blog and prayers!

    Reply

  7524. Thank you for taking us along with you! A virtual concert experience! I’m not sure Linda, if I could handle the loudness any more. Maybe getting too old. But it sure sounds like fun. And glad you got to have that VIP time with Jars of Clay. I keep thinking of the song they play on the radio some yet from them . . .and it escapes me. argh. But I love it. Oh wait . . .some words are like “God will lift up your head”.
    One of the other things that you shared about is how they give testimonies at these concerts. That is so awesome and important. It’s more than just a concert. People’s lives get saved and changed for eternity there. A happy sigh . . .
    God bless you Linda , for being our up to the minute music minister!

    Reply

    • Deb, Exactly, it is so much more than just a concert! It’s a giant worship service! There’s always prayer, and they share about Compassion International and give opportunities to sponsor a child if you can.

      I have to admit that this was almost too loud for me. 😉 But not quite. I’ve loved concerts since I was a teenager, but I enjoy them more now that I go to Christian concerts and I just feel so blessed afterwards.

      And I know the song you are talking about. It’s on their Redemption Songs CD, which I’ve had for quite a while. It’s all old hymns, like I’ll Fly Away, It Is Well With My Soul, and They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love. They rearranged them to be a bit more upbeat than you might sing in church, but they are still all the same great hymns.

      Thanks for coming along with me to the concert! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • The last concert I went to was an Aerosmith, Ted Nugent one. There you go. ha! When I came to Jesus, I had the same dilemma. Rock music was so much a part of my life. I just stopped pretty much, cold turkey. But I missed it. God was so good to me and gave me a friend at work who told me about the Christian music radio station. I started listening there. And he gave me some Rich Mullins to listen to. Then the only church I ever went to was an Assemblies of God church and they had a praise and worship band. One of the teams was the youth pastor’s group and they’d do some Third Day songs and he wrote music too. I loved that! Mostly, I think God did a work in me, to mellow out some of that hard rock addiction. ha!
        And ya, my hands just kind of shoot up. It’s like they have a mind of their own. But it was easier because I was in a place where others did it too . . .and even danced . . .and it was all I’d known.
        God bless your heart that rocks for Him!

  7526. I admire your passion for praise and worship. In fact, I’m a little (alot) envious. I’m happy the concert was all you wanted it to be!

    Since I graduated from a life on ongoing sin, and The Doors, Queen, and Meatloaf, I just can’t get into music. It’s terrible, I know.

    For one thing, I’m way too uptight to let go like that in a group of people, even my “brothers and sisters in Christ.” If I had to raise my hands in praise, I would run screaming to an Independent Baptist Church where we sing proper traditional hymns and everyone stands still.

    This is a battle I struggle with every day, especially since my iPod is loaded with great Christian bands, and I love singing alone in the shower. I tell myself I just have to grow into this, but I really want it now.

    Sigh. You’re a pro… what do you think? And hugs…

    Reply

    • Linda, As a teenager, I listened to a lot of AC DC, Foreigner, Judas Priest, Quiet Riot, Nirvana – I could go on, but suffice it to say I was a “head banger” and a rocker. Just tonight my husband reminded me of when we went to the Meatloaf “Everything louder than everything else” tour when I was a few months pregnant. It was in the same venue we were in last night, only 16 years ago. I had to leave the arena because I felt so sick.

      I’ve always loved music, and when I first gave my life to Jesus, I had a hard time with finding music that I enjoyed listening to. I started out listening to Creed, which isn’t technically a Christian band, but it was a good bridge because of the Christian themes in some of their songs but they really rock.

      I still like some of the stuff I used to listen to. One of my favorites was George Thoroughgood, but “Bad to the Bone” as a lyric isn’t something I really want to listen to very much, if at all. I’m just glad there are a lot more really good Christian bands of all different genres now to choose from.

      As for raising my hands and moving with the music, no matter where I am, I guess that’s just part of who I am and always have been. I just never let the devil take that away from me. I figure if David could dance and sing to the Lord like a madman (see 2 Samuel ch. 6), so can I. And so can you! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7527. Thank you, Linda,

    I’ve been waiting for this 🙂 Sounds like you had a blast! (pun intended!! 🙂 ) Wish I could have been there but you wrote such a wonderful review I think I’ll just go to YouTube and ‘relive’ the experience 🙂

    Blessings and thanks for sharing.

    ann

    Reply

  7528. Thanks, Linda

    Hope you had a fantastic time!!

    Thanks for posting Psalm 98. Loving the visuals here! :
    “7 Let the sea resound, and everything in it,
    the world, and all who live in it.
    8 Let the rivers clap their hands,
    let the mountains sing together for joy;
    9 let them sing before the LORD,
    for he comes to judge the earth.”

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7529. What power and passion are in that psalm! There is nothing as beautiful as voices of Believers coming together in song and rejoicing.

    The little Baptist church I attend when we move to Michigan for the summer always has a row of “domestics” who work for the super rich folks out on the point. They are beautiful black ladies, older, wearing hats, and living for the Lord. And you should hear the music we make together… hymns, very traditional… but it sounds like angels singing.

    I hope you had a blast with your friends. I’m sure you knew every single song! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, There were some great songs where everyone sang in the whole coliseum, and it was awesome! I love that sound. But there were some songs by a few of the bands that I didn’t know. I enjoyed it all anyway, just to be together with brothers and sisters in the Lord! I think I would enjoy hearing those beautiful black ladies sing, too! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7530. Loved the new photo! And I don’t think I’ve told you how much I love your HOPE banner. When it appears . . .it just makes me happy!
    Loved the psalm with your worship at the show today! “Let the rivers clap their hands.” . . .and lovely Linda too!
    God bless you and thank you for always thinking about us and making sure we’re fed our Psalm today!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks, you’re so sweet. There is actually a story behind the HOPE sign that I took a picture of for the banner. I’ll have to write a post about it one of these days. The show was great! Look for more about it tomorrow. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Rea, I had a great time. I will be posting something about it tomorrow. It’s too late tonight and I’m tired. 😉 Yes, the new picture is me with my naturally straight hair instead of a perm like I’ve had for years. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7532. Another great post — 2 hands in harmony! This morning I had a great time in the church looking at my youngest daughter joyfully raising her 2 hands in praise to God! And I’m thinking, when did I start multi-tasking that my body parts are not synchronized even in honoring and praising God? Got to talk to self and spirit about this 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, Watching kids worship is so awesome! If only we could all worship like them all the time. In the church I attend not too many people raise their hands above their heads in worship. It’s just not the Lutheran thing to do. But I’ll be doing a lot of that tonight at the concer! I remember the last time I saw MercyMe and they sang “Undone” I was in the 4th row with my hands raised HIGH! “To the cross I run, holding high my chains undone. I’m finally free, free to be what I’ve become. Undone.” I hope they sing that again tonight! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • I’m getting a laugh out of those who have commented on the “Yahoo,” which I almost cut out of the poem! So glad I didn’t. Peace, Linda

      P.S. Maybe I should change my sign-off to Love Joy Peace, Linda 😉

      Reply

  7534. Wow you did it! Last week my eldest daughter and I talk about bungee jumping in Macau. The idea came because I have fear of heights that I remember pleading for the operator of the mini-ferris wheel (for toddlers) to stop it because I might have heart attack though I don’t have a heart problem (literally)! Hopefully I would have a courage to do it and not wonder in my old age why I haven’t even try. And best of all I know God will catch me regardless of the height of the fall 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, You can do it! If you and your daughter desire to, ask for courage and peace, and He will grant it. I can’t wait to hear all about it! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7535. Thank you, Linda

    “He is calling each individual soul to a deeper relationship …”
    This is a very deep post and I believe the line above sums up so much! We all need to catch a hold of the same vision and run it with like there’s not tomorrow….

    He’ll be here soon. I’m excited to know He could come to my generation but I know there’s still so much I can do for Him.

    Thanks for the poke. I read your post and Phillips Craig and Dean flew to my mind. Praying that as worshippers we will hear His voice and respond.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you so much for adding that video. I have not heard that song before. He is calling each of us as individuals, and I find I need to keep my focus on Him and my relationship with Him, and not on what others are doing. Glad my own introspection could serve as a poke to someone else to draw closer to Him, too. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7536. I wish I knew what to say to this. Thank you for your honesty and your challenge to yourself and us . . .to use both hands to do the same thing. I think there is always a deeper place to go with Him, a closer to get, a next level to climb to. I truly believe that you will look back and see just as many changes in ten years time, if not even more.
    God bless you Linda, as you point us to Jesus over and over again. Have a great and wonderful time at the concert!!!

    Reply

    • Deb, If I desire to be closer, to climb the next hill, I know He will be faithful to help me. This was really just my way of stating that desire, of putting it down on paper. I do know that I’m no longer standing in the shallow end, but still long for the joy of deep water faith. Thank you for your encouragement! I can always count on you for a positive comment. 🙂 As for the concert, I know it will be awesome. I’m planning on posting about it on Monday! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7537. “Contentment envelopes my very soul.” Like a sigh of relief where my struggle used to be.

    The shepherd’s yahoo… clever and modern (saw your comment to Ann, lol)

    I love the Holy Spirit, and recognize on a daily basis that every good thing in me is because He is dwelling there. He is why I can like myself today. Makes me want to go tell someone! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I know what you mean – it is the Holy Spirit who is responsible for all that is good in me, too. I never thought about Him being the reason I like myself today, but that is so true; and He’s the reason I can believe others like me, too. 🙂 And best of all “the Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” Romans 8:16. That’s something I want to tell people! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7540. Thank you, Linda
    Nice! (and very peaceful 😉

    I heard the shepherds yodeling ‘Yahoo!’ and I smiled 🙂

    I have a long, long day ahead of me … I will remember to shout yahoo and be reminded of the Love, Joy and Peace He brought!

    @ Deb – you are such a sweetheart! 🙂
    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I’m glad you liked the shepherds’ Yahoo. I thought that part was kind of silly, but couldn’t come up with an alternate line. May the Lord sustain you with love, joy, and peace on this long day. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7541. I was so thinking about you today, wondering when I got home, what I would be able to fall into, with thankfulness! You certainly didn’t disappoint! Thank you so much Linda. Somehow, you keep getting better and better . . .even when I don’t think that’s possible because I love what you have already done. The love, joy, peace was perfect for me. Really helped me focus on what to be thankful for today. God bless you and how His Spirit bears fruit in you each day!

    Reply

    • Deb, What a sweet, encouraging comment! You really made me smile with this. To think that someone would be anticipating reading my poetry, and not be disappointed when they do is just amazing to me. But knowing it is the Holy Spirit who helps me write these I shouldn’t be so amazed.

      It’s kind of funny that I started this poem as just Peace, but when that part was done I had the idea to write on all the fruit of the Spirit. The whole thing is done – except Gentleness. I have two weeks to get that part figured out! Pray the Holy Spirit will teach me what Gentleness is before then. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7542. How wonderfully you connected this all together for us! 🙂 Wow! Linda. . .I’m scared of heights. You . . .you are brave, not a chicken. I don’t care what they say to you about the water business, you are so not a chicken. And I do understand that peace. There have been times when I just had to do something. There wasn’t time to think and He just had me. I like that, even when we fall, He’s got the ripcord!
    God bless you and all your adventures in Him!

    Reply

  7543. Had to blink twice when I looked at the photo and saw it was you! Made me smile…

    Your message about fear caught me at a good time… to remind me that other devout Christians have fearful moments too, and that the solution is always Jesus.

    My fear moves like a flow chart– once it starts, so many possibilities open up that I feel overwhelmed, and sometimes I just forget to pray.

    Thanks for a great story with a perfect ending! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, Glad I could make you smile. One of my favorite sayings about fear is, “Fear knocked at the door. Faith answered, and there was nobody there.” And yet I still sometimes feel fear, and if I forget to pray it can get the best of me. I am so thankful, though, that He helps me overcome the fears eventually. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7545. Thanks, Linda

    I was laughing as I read. Thanks for allowing me to live my skydiving ‘dream’ (read nightmare) through you. ( I am chicken but I still want to ride an elephant! 🙂 )

    Blessings and thanks so much for the reminder that I can do all things through Him!

    Grounded 😉
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Just looking at the picture makes me laugh! I have such a goofy look on my face with the wind pushing everything back. I’m glad I could provide you with a laugh and a vicarious skydiving adventure. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7547. One of the most generous persons I know is Deb. She gives so much of her time, love, and blessings to those around her — near or far. She got so much energy and I wonder how many hands she got 🙂

    It’s the first time I heard of the song but I played it thrice already as of this moment. Thanks Linda!
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I agree Deb is a generous Mrs. Lovewell! I’m glad you like this song. I still have this CD in my CD player in the car, for over a week now. I just love the whole CD! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7548. Wonderful!

    (As you may see, I’m slowly working my way through your past blogs.)

    Joan Uda, a retired Methodist minister, writes a weekly column in both the
    Helena and Great Falls, Montana newspapers (She and her husband Lowell, also a retired minister, live in Helena.) Recently she asked what would happen if all of us were to practise loving all our legislators, of either party? And what would happen if they started loving all of us, of either party? (And, sad to say, she got several very negative comments in the paper for asking that.) Like you said – “crazy.” But count us in anyway.

    Reply

    • Pete, I’m glad you are enjoying some of my older posts. I find it quite interesting to see which of my older posts get read quite a bit. There are a handful that are regularly read because they fit a recurring Google search. Tears in a Bottle is one in particular, and one called The Importance of Prepositions (though I doubt the people who search for that last one find what they were intending). Sometimes I even learn something by re-reading something I posted a while back, or at least am reminded of something important God taught me once. 🙂 Thanks for reading. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7549. Thank you, Linda.

    “Perhaps it is precisely when we forget that the aim of our faith must be God Himself that He sends a trial of loss, so that we may see that we have placed some inferior desire ahead of our desire for Him alone, but that if we turn back to Him we will weather the loss and be whole again. Without the trial we might miss out on the wonder of the only relationship we truly cannot live without.”

    Perhaps it so indeed …

    Deep in thought,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I struggled a bit with this paragraph, with suggesting that God sends trials, because I don’t think that is always the case. Sometimes they are of our own making, and sometimes they are just a product of our broken world, but I do know that He never lets them go to waste. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7550. I haven’t read this Linda, but I love all that you got out of it! It makes me think quite a bit about how what has happened to me has affected my faith. I believe it has always drawn me closer. This is also something that Linda, from shoes for an imaginary life, and I were talking about. I hope she reads here today! 🙂 She was wondering why it took us sinking so low,to such extremes, before we turned to God while others may come without all of that.
    God bless you and thank you so much Linda!

    Reply

    • Deb, I just (and I mean just, as in one minute ago) read the comment exchange between you and Linda about this! It does tie in quite well with this post. I almost posted a reply to your comment there, but then decided it would be too cluttered. But I remember going to a Missionettes camp when I was in the 6th grade and accepting Jesus, then really not paying much attention to Him while I was in high school and college. But I was always His. It just took some difficult trials to bring me back to Him. So glad He never left me through it all. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7551. My husband has a heart for animals that even surpasses my own. He grows crops to feed the ducks and geese who visit along the flyway, and leaves corn standing to give the deer cover in the winter.

    His barn cats are in Ohio sleeping on heated matresses tonight, and when The Cryer, sick with feline leukemia had to be euthanized… he wept.

    My husband really is the best! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, That’s so sweet! I love animals, too. When I first met my husband, he had a cocker spaniel with a mohawk whose name was Bogart. We both cried when he got cancer and had to be put down. But it takes a special person to get so attached to a barn cat. Thanks for sharing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7552. I hadn’t heard this song before, so what a treat. And now I understand better when they mention the Generous Mr. Lovewell tour! 🙂
    My momma is like this . . .so generous. 🙂 Always wanting to help and give me things, get me things when I should be doing more for her! ha! But, I try to let her because it makes her so happy . . .and me too, to be loved like that. 🙂
    God bless you and all the generous ways He works through you each day!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m so glad I chose this song for Music Monday Extra (which seems to have become a permanent fixture here 🙂 ) since you hadn’t heard it before. That’s cool that you get to see that generosity in your mom; I do believe it has worn off on you! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ben, I love your new gravatar! Is that your dog? He’s very cute. Glad you liked the post. When I learned this about the veil or curtain, it was just such a blessing to me that I wanted to share. It is another of those instances in which you must view the OT and the NT together to get the whole picture of God’s love. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Actually, those are not my dogs. I have two chocolate labs. My dog found this guy (and his two brothers) in our front yard one Sunday morning before church. We live just outside of town and a lot of people dump their animals out here. Anyway, they were cold and wet and starving. We took them in and took care of them for a couple of weeks before we took them to the animal shelter where we volunteer. From there, through a program called the Rescue Waggin, they went all the way to Duluth, MN, where all three were adopted. 🙂 So, to answer your question, no he is not mine, but I got pretty attatched to him while he was here. 🙂

  7554. Thanks, Linda

    “So I have decided not to lament or regret my past, but to see it for what it is: the broken road that has prepared me to be the person God wants me to be to those around me.”
    Linda, I pray God will continue to use you to share His love even as He heals the broken pieces. I don’t like the broken road. I don’t at all. Sometimes I wish I didn’t have to take that route but as you said, it’s a part of His plan for me.
    I smiled as I thought of you going through your list trying to find the one you thought you should listen to while He was preparing you to hear it at the simplest of tasks… preparing ‘Chicken Soup For The Soul’ 😉

    We may be broken and bruised but definitely not done with! This is a great post, Linda… thank you for sending me the link.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I’m glad you were blessed by this post. I always hesitate to include a link to one of my posts in a comment on another blog, but this one just seemed to fit so well. And I love your thoughts on “Chicken Soup for the Soul!” It made me smile. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7555. Thank you, Linda

    I hope you get to see Mercy Me! 🙂 Please do sing and shout and dance for all of us!

    “But when Jesus died, that curtain was torn. The barrier between the people and the place where God dwelled was destroyed. At that moment, “hope was born” because we can now come boldly before the throne of grace and into the presence of God. To be sure, we ought to come into this place with reverence and awe for the Almighty, but we can come. We needn’t be the High Priest; and we surely don’t need a rope tied around our ankle.”
    Thanks for this wonderful piece ( I have to tell you how Easter excites me 🙂 ).
    I remember being told that the veil was ripped from top to bottom … just in case those who doubted would think it was ripped by human hands. That may or may not be so but the fact that the veil was torn at that moment is more than enough for me!
    Thank you Linda. I didn’t always get the meaning of this and I didn’t always understand but I’m thankful that even now He still sends His truth. Thanks for being the messenger to remind us about the Cross today. The Great High Priest stands as mediator for me!

    ” Now I can go into the Holy of Holies!
    I can kneel and make my petition known :- )”
    I, a mere human. A sinner saved by grace … *I* can enter in 🙂

    Thankful and Happy,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I get excited about Easter, too! It’s my favorite Holy Day of the year; I love it even more than Christmas. Thank you for adding this wonderful worship song video. It’s a perfect fit!

      If I get to see MercyMe, I will sing, dance, and shout for all my blog friends. I’m planning to go, but it’s one of those where tickets are $10 at the door, and when they are gone, they are gone. So it all depends on whether I get in line early enough. They are playing with Jars of Clay and five other bands in a show called the Rock & Worship Show. Should be awesome! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7556. Love all the lesson behind the veil being torn. It makes me wonder what the people made of it at the time? Could they grasp the significance of what had just happened? I still get goosebumps and am awed by knowing that there is so much yet that I don’t grasp about Him, so much more to Him for me yet to see and discover. And I can do that, because He died and made a way for me . . .and tore the veil.
    Love Mercy Me! Thank you and God bless your music Mondays!

    Reply

    • Deb, I agree; I am awed by knowing there is so much more to know and tickled that someday I will see it all when I’m in His presence standing before the actual throne in Heaven! What a day that will be! And it is so wonderful that we get to learn a bit more about Him each day. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • April, Thanks, I’m glad you liked this one. I love MercyMe, too; their music is so wonderfully Biblical and uplifting. And thanks for sharing with your FB friends. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7561. I love that too, Linda, about the Psalms. How David always ended up praising God, no matter how else he felt and what he was going through. That really helps me . . .that’s what I’m suppose to do too!
    I love how this Psalm really covers it all, doesn’t it, all the things we can praise Him for . . .and all that should give Him praise.
    Loving thinking of you leading the prayer this morning Linda. Though I couldn’t be there in person, I feel like I was there in Spirit with you, praising Him too!
    p.s. I was really touched by that blast of the ram’s horn too! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, When I first started posting Psalms on Sunday, I was kind of thinking it was me just being lazy. But it has been such a blessing to so many, I don’t feel that way any more. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I know how you felt about doing the Psalms for Sunday, but glad that you don’t see it that way now. It’s like me doing the Inside Israel posts (copy, paste!). Your Psalms Sundays are just the perfect thing. And He always reminds me that it’s His Words that are going to make a difference to someone, really. God bless you and how He leads you in life and blogging!

  7562. For some reason the “blast of the ram’s horn” touches my heart tonight.
    I want to be loud, strong, and bold in my faith! I pray for that.

    Writing has a nice way of keeing the focus on His glory. Looking forward to another good week of spiritual growth and praising Him!

    Psalm 150… what an inspiration! Thank you! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, Yes, writing does help keep the focus on Him! In the past almost a year and a half I have grown bolder and “louder” in my faith, and have grown so much closer to Jesus. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7563. Thank you, Linda

    I pondered your questions:
    “So what is more important to teach our children? To be independent and disconnected from others? Or to allow themselves to sometimes depend on others and likewise be willing to help those in need? ”
    and your thoughts:
    “He is a thoughtful, caring young man who regularly thinks of others. He doesn’t take my helpfulness in a situation like his book dilemma for granted and just willy-nilly forget things so I have to bring them to him all the time.”

    I think you did a great job in raising a wonderful gentleman. Praying that the things He’s taught in His youth will remain with Him in the times He’s away from home and that He will grow up to be a “well-adjusted and independent adult…” to the glory of God.

    Blessings upon you and your household.
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for such a nice and thoughtful comment. I have tried to raise my son to love God and to be a good kid, but I can’t take all the credit. God blessed him with a wonderful personality and creative talents. I’ve just tried to encourage the good that I see in him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, I would be surprised to ever hear you say you didn’t love a particular Psalm! I know I love them all, though some are more special than others. I actually used this one as the basis of the beginning of my Prayers of the People in church this morning. It was wonderful to praise Him out loud in so many ways and for so many things. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • 🙂

        Some do jump out at me, Linda. One of these days I’ll go through and see if I can name them! 😉

        It seems I can always find something to ‘sort out my thoughts’ in the Psalms. It’s a wonderful collection indeed.

        I love corporate praise. Would have loved to be a part of that too. I missed church today and it was great to come here and find this song of praise.

        Blessings,
        ann

  7565. I’m so glad that you could be there for him and help like that. 🙂 I think it’s just those kind of things that make him and other children into the thoughtful caring young adults we want to see them be. It is not about every man for himself and too bad, so sad. I understand what that school was trying to say and with the volumes of students and parents, they can’t think individually so well. But, God knows each ones situation and gives parents like you the discernment to see when a child just made a mistake and needs a little help.
    With Aubrey, well, the school pushed independence a lot. I understood, but knew for her, it just wasn’t going to be. . .that by making that the main focus, we were hurting her more than teaching her. Sometimes independence can be over-rated.. .over done. Thinking of how dependent I am on Jesus!!! ha!
    God bless you and your today!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you for pointing out that we are all dependent on Jesus – that in that sense independence really is overrated! And we moms really do know our own kids individual personalities and needs better than the school ever can. I’m glad my son’s school now doesn’t take a position on stuff like this; it’s up to the parents what to do. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7566. “Suffer the natural consequences of their forgetfulness…”

    I’m so glad Jesus came so my sins would be forgiven. Whether it’s A-day, B-day, or any other day, I make alot of mistakes, step on toes, say the wrong thing. I forget things, too.

    Maybe those moms could leave a Post-it note that says, “You’re the best and don’t forget your books.”

    Reply

  7567. Last month we had a meeting in my eldest daughter’s school. The administrator announced that parents are no longer allowed to leave things for the kids for their own safety — because they have no way of knowing if what is left is a bomb. Huh that extreme? Maybe that’s their way of convincing parents that it’s for the best.

    I see nothing wrong bringing something for the kids on a few occasions because even us adults sometimes forget too. It’s one way of showing that we care and support them. However, habitual forgetfulness and dependence on things that they should be doing is a different story. We can’t be there for them forever and do things for them.

    And yes, kiddos can be very appreciative of little things and that makes our day!
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, that does seem a tad extreme, but that seems to be the way schools are going these days for safety reasons. It’s much different than when I was a kid.

      I agree that we cannot enable habitual forgetfulness or laziness, but to suggest that a parent should “never” take a forgotten item in for a kid (or in my son’s case a mix-up on what day it was) seems misplaced. It’s like mandatory minimum sentences for certain crimes. There is no room for individual circumstances. And little room for teaching helpfulness, kindness, mercy, and compassion. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7568. What a great post! “…from an eternal standpoint we should hope and pray that all who are in violation of God’s law would repent and turn to their Savior for mercy and forgiveness…” That is so very true. It’s easy to condemn and seek vengeance- just human nature. But, like you said, that is not the way the Lord would have us to be. None of us are deserving of mercy, least of all me, but I am thankful that He is merciful.
    In Christ,
    Ben

    Reply

    • Ben, I thought of you when I wrote this one, not because you are a worse sinner than anyone else, but because you love mercy. My prayer is that more Christians would learn this important lesson and we, as His Church, would really be seen as different from the world. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Got to check it in the grocery and yes my kiddos would love it because they like garlic bread with butter. Olive oil is healthier and it’s okay with them too because they love my pesto.
        🙂

  7571. Linda,

    This blog post of the poem “Between Me and God” is so inspiring. Would you mind if I shared this in my notes section of FB?

    God Bless!
    Cathy

    Reply

    • Cathy, Thanks for stopping by. I’m glad you liked the post. I don’t mind if you share the anonymous poem included in the post, but if you want to share the whole including the part I wrote, please include a link back here. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7572. “I can’t get no satisfaction” makes me think of the criminals who deserve mercy, too, and what their troubled lives must be like.

    I enjoy observing the growth of Solomon and his wisdom as he ages. At age 48 I care less about my material treasures and value the true blessings that have come from God. A life of darkness and adversity sure got my priorities straight. And I’m grateful that He saw fit to make me His own. I praise Him! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, People like Charlie Sheen and Lindsay Lohan also come to mind. They might have a lot of money and act like they are happy with their partying lifestyle, but they really have no satisfaction in life.

      I, too, used to seek happiness from material treasures, but although I still have nice things they aren’t as important to me any more. I’m much more concerned about having peace found only in Christ. Took me many years of major depression first to get there, but I’m grateful He saw fit to make me His own, too! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7573. Oh this makes me hungry and looks so good! 🙂 And not that much harder than the frozen kind, huh? 🙂 I’ll beware though, once I start it, I may not be able to go back to the other! God bless you and the joy of cooking you share with us!

    Reply

    • Deb, You will never, ever go back! I think if I ever tried to make some other kind of garlic bread, my family might mutiny. Okay, they probably wouldn’t mutiny because where else could they go to have someone cook for them like I do, but they would certainly lodge a complaint. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting. If I got the pre-made garlic toast I think it would be the first time my family complained about my cooking – they are so spoiled with this recipe. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7575. Thank you, Linda

    Looks yummy 🙂

    My grandmother put garlic in almost everything she cooked. She said garlic is good for over-all health. I’ve bought into that! 😉

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7576. Linda,

    Since you wrote this, God place another thread by me. It`s interesting to see how our lives connect even though we`re from different worlds. Our life experiences to date have been similar and those experiences also connect to others. Through His placing us where we are now, we are able to minister to ourselves and to others.

    I don`t always understand the direction He takes me in but I am confident He does not make mistakes. It`s not easy to say `whatever it takes, Lord`, but I`m learning to fall back and let Him order my steps.

    Blessings and thanks again for this beautiful piece.

    Being Woven,
    ann

    Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir – Order My Steps

    Reply

    • Ann, I read your comment in my Dashboard, but it made me want to go back and re-read the post because I’d forgotten what I’d written. It was a good one to re-read. It is interesting to see how all our lives connect, how He connects them, and how He uses us to impact and change one another for the better. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7577. Hello Linda
    I’m here from my friend Ann,our blogs seem to be similar .Expressing our love for our Heavenly Father while learning and leaning on him.”A satisfied mind comes from being thankful for the blessings of God”. I totally love this line Linda,for if we would concentrate on what God has done for us instead of what we seem to be liking then surely we’d enjoy that blessed peace he promised. God knew we needed more help that’s why he sent the Holy Spirit and what a great comforter he is “Hallelujah”! I enjoyed my visit and will be back.
    Love you sister 😀 😀

    Reply

    • Pat, So nice to have you come visit! Any friend of Ann’s (and Jesus’) is a friend of mine. I agree about the help He gives us through the Holy Spirit. I would be lost without that. Earlier this year (I think it was the first week in January) I wrote a post about giving the Holy Spirit credit for all He does, and I’ve been trying to do that in my blog. I look forward to checking out your blog, too. I always love finding another great Christian blog. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7578. Thank you, Linda

    Today I met with friends and we talked about the goodness of God in our lives and how wonderfully He orchestrated the events in our lives to take us to this point. I have to say I have been through the fire and the flood and He never once let go of me. His blood cleansed me and His mercy kept me … I am fully satisfied!

    Thanks to Him, I am a daughter of the King. Yes, He bought me… and the peace I feel from His love is more than I can say! The Joy that bubbles over in me comes from knowing that He took my broken pieces and made me beautiful. ` I will praise Him for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…` I am truly satisfied!

    Bless you for writing this, Linda.
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It sounds like you had a wonderful day! And then you came and shared it with me. 🙂 Thank you. What a wonderful comment. I love how you took each portion of my poem and incorporated it into what you wrote. It made me smile. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7579. You are so right, Linda! I loved the poem and found it very satisfying! 🙂 I think Jesus did too! Thank you for my thankful Thursday resting place, my time to renew and refocus on Him. You are such a blessing Linda. I’m so glad there is a you!

    Reply

    • April, Thank you for such a kind and encouraging comment. I really wasn’t sure about this one, so I am glad someone liked it. I find that if I just keep the focus on Him it all comes out good. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7581. Yes I realized a few years ago that it’s about me. Back then I couldn’t leave the people I love for Christ because I don’t want them to feel unloved. It’s only when I decided to leave them and choose Christ that there is more love because they eventually come with me to the source of love.
    🙂

    Reply

  7582. Wow Linda. .. powerful post. Maybe there is something wrong with me, but I don’t want anyone to go to hell. I want everyone to receive mercy. Micah 6:8 is one of the one’s He’s given me . . .because I need things simple. It’s pretty plain and simple. What He emphasized in it , for me, was to LOVE mercy. Love it. Not just for me , but for me to love being merciful to others. I’ve got more work to do on that, so really was blessed by this so much. Thank you!!!! You keep writing things He wants me to hear!

    Reply

    • Deb, I agree. I don’t want anyone to go to hell, either. I want everyone to find Him and be saved. I want Him to change every heart just like He has changed mine (and yours 🙂 ). Thank you for your encouraging comment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7583. But it isn’t just Julie Schenecker in Tampa, or the guy in Arizona who shot the congresswoman and killed more. Or the 16 year old kid in St. Petersburg who shot and killed a cop yesterday. Here in Florida, we watch the slaughter du jour on the nightly news, reported as if these things just happen.

    My heart is hard as stone when it comes to parents who pimp out their five year old babies to drug dealers who rape them, cut them into pieces, then float them down a canal in a suitcase.

    Or the guy parked on I-95 who, just last week saturated his adopted kids in extermination chemicals until the little girl was dead and the boy was burning and convulsing in seizures.

    Love the sinner, hate the sin. And yes, Micah 6:8. And of course, I know all that. But where does it end? I need to watch less Nancy Grace. And pray more. And remember what the Bible teaches about mercy.

    But for now I’m outraged. And I’ll pray for understanding and that your lesson today will reach my heart. But that will have to be a God thing, because my flesh says Hell’s not good enough. : (

    Hugs… Linda

    Reply

    • Linda, Has it ever occurred to you that these people already live in hell? They don’t know peace, they don’t know God, they don’t have or understand the Love that sustains you and me? I don’t understand it either; I do not understand people who intentionally hurt others. But I know that what God asks of me is to show mercy, and then leave it to Him to decide if that mercy will be eternal. It is a God thing, and it is only because of the change He caused in my heart when I had to forgive someone who hurt me. When I think of how I have sinned against God in my life, I know Hell’s not good enough for me, either. And I am really grateful that He does not see it that way. Peace, hugs, and prayers for understanding, Linda

      Reply

      • Your reply made me think of Romans 9:14-16…

        What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” (NIV)

        Turning off HLN, praying, thinking about mercy today… : )

  7584. Linda,

    “But do any of us deserve mercy? If deserving it was a prerequisite to mercy, well, it wouldn’t be mercy.”
    This is a hard truth…

    It’s often easier for us to decide who deserves mercy because we are not in the position of the one who has fallen.

    Blessings, Linda. Thanks for reminding us of the reason Jesus gave His life.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, You brought to mind the old Kris Kristopherson song “Jesus was a carpenter.” I always loved the line “Everybody’s gotta have somebody to look down on.” We want mercy for ourselves, but we always have to find someone else who we don’t think should receive it. He wants all to receive it with humble hearts. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7585. I’m so glad you posted this. It seems like God is giving me lots of teachings on salvation. 🙂 Love it and need it right now.
    I liked your point about when someone brings up other faiths, that they are diverting from making a personal choice.
    God bless you as you live out your personal choice of Jesus!

    Reply

    • Deb, I had a boss at a previous job who did just that. He was an older guy and had experienced a stroke, almost died. I felt like I needed to talk to him about Jesus, but he argued that he couldn’t believe God would send all those other people to hell. I didn’t have an answer back then, and afterwards I knew I needed to learn more and be ready the next time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7587. “As for me, I have made my choice to follow Christ based on the Gospel that I have heard. It is now my responsibility to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19 (NIV).”

    Amen. Amen. Amen!! Thanks for speaking the truth in love.

    Jesus said “I am the way…” Whoever comes to the Father, comes through the Christ. We have to respond. He offers life but we must receive it. Salvation is not hereditary or passed on by osmosis…

    Thank you Linda.

    God bless you,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I like that: ” Salvation is not hereditary or passed on by osmosis.” Great summation of my post. John 14:6 is my favorite verse in the whole Bible, though there are a ton of verses that all tie for second place. He couldn’t have made it any clearer if He tried! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7588. What you speak of is so very true. We all have a decision to make in life; to follow or not. I’m happy to see you not only chose to follow, but to answer to God’s calling of discipleship and doing His work.

    Reply

  7589. Hi Linda,

    This morning I just thought I’d read your “top rated” post, so here I am. (Overall, as I “listen” to God (see your post the other day), He seems to be telling me to back off some on my blog reading and commenting, because there are a couple other things He wants me to do, and there isn’t time to do all of it. So, I’ll ration my blog time.)

    But I’m glad I read this one. Not only well done, and thoughtful, but very encouraging. Why? Because I and my family have been saying the same thing, but without any success here where we live (btw, that’s one reason why we think God wants to move us before the next “stage” of our ministries begins. No kidding, in this town the ministerial association broke up because NONE of the churches here were willing to work together. We tried to gradually find a group who’d be willing to work together to “love and help their neighbors” – but did not succeed.

    If you’d like to see my and my family’s view of your topic (very favorable), right now my manuscript on “loving our neighbors” is up on our family website. Chapter 9 is on “Loving Christians from other churches.” It’s at http://www.sparkleofnature.com). (Right now looking is free, and you’re welcome to make yourself a free personal copy, if you want.) But it may only be temporarily because we’re trying to find a publisher, and when we do we figure we’ll have to take it down, – at best sell it there.

    Anyway, God bless you for thinking this way. And saying it.

    Reply

    • Pete, So glad you liked this post. It just makes so much sense to me that we need to all focus on what we agree on – that Christ is our Savior. I’m reminded of the old hymn “They will know we are Christians by our love.” I have actually been to your site before and read some of your book. It is very good! I haven’t downloaded it or made a copy, but just read some online. As for trying to find a publisher, I suggest you get one of the books out there on how to write a book proposal so that you can improve the likelihood of success. Acquisitions editors are more likely to pick there next book from the stack of 30 book proposals on one side of the desk than from the 2 full manuscripts on the other. If you do part of their job for them, which includes telling them who your audience would be among other things, then you are more likely to get a publishing offer. And your book is definitely one that is worth being published. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Hi again Linda,

        Thanks for the encouragement. In fact, I have one proposal out now, though I’ve found that most standard publishers won’t even accept those any more. The majority want authors to go through agents, who, unfortunately, are just as hard to get as publishers (rejection rates are generally in the high 90%s. The book did get approved by the Writers’ Edge Manuscript Service a few years ago, and many major Christian publishers cite that and one other service as some they follow, and they contact those authors whose books interest them. I did get a few inquiries, but all from “subsidy” publishers, though one major directory for authors says one of them (Winepress Publishing) is of excellent quality. They’re interested, and I’ve liked the people I’ve talked with there, but right now we don’t have nearly the money it would take, so we’re still feeling out some regular companies.

        In the meantime, I do keep finding more good material to put in, so (I think) the mss has kept getting better and better – and will make an improved book when things finally do come together.

        Again, your encouragement was very appreciated. Thank you. And I hope you get to read more of it.

        Pete Ahlstrom.

  7590. I commented in your post Listening to God that, “I am in the right place”.
    And I’ll say it again in here, “I am in the right place! At the right time”.
    God is amazing!
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I hesitated to post this song because usually I post a song by a Christian artist or band. But this is such a great song and consistent with Biblical principles. I’m so glad it was a blessing to you. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7591. oh no. oh yes! I am in the right place at this moment! Early this morning God sent me a cue and I replied with “How shall I do it?” but there’s no response. I go about my morning business and have forgotten about it when suddenly I heard His answer. I paused, then heard it again. I said, “Okay Lord I’ll do it but please help me do it”. I need to do it by Friday so I have 2 more days to wait for His further instructions. I feel a little pressured but based on previous experience I know He will come to my rescue.

    Thank you Linda for this post — 1st you have blessed your colleague then your blog friends. The circle of blessing keep on growing because there are people like you who are generous enough to share the gifts from God!
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, That is so exciting to hear that you are listening to God! I know He will answer your prayer to help you do that which He has asked you to do. I will keep you in my prayers that His instructions will be clear and you will have strength and courage to obey. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7592. I am so thankful for this post Linda! For you! For Jesus and how He speaks to us. I often hesitate to tell someone “God told me . . .”. I once read a book and this person said she started saying instead, “I think God told me to do such and such a thing.” It’s that human part… was it God or was it me? 🙂
    This is a beautiful example of it being God. And you showed us your reasoning and struggle with it, and ultimate obedience. Sometimes we won’t see or hear about it being a blessing or the right thing to do. But, we go on faith and do what we believe we hear Him tell us. 🙂
    I have felt, thought!, that He has wanted me to send out cards, letters and notes to others real regularly this year. I had fallen away from doing it as much once I started blogging. He keeps nudging me and putting someone on my heart nearly everyday to write to. These are people who don’t write back or contact me, for the most part. Yet, He asks me to! It’s a joy to obey and trust that He has His reasons. 🙂
    God bless you as you listen to Him and He speaks to you each day!

    Reply

    • Deb, Remember what I said about being used by God where we are? This is what I meant. I often feel like at work I am of no use because I can’t really share about Him, but this experience reminded me that I can show compassion and love to others even if I don’t ever mention Jesus. And I can listen for His leading regarding those who need it most. As Linda commented, He will lead us to those whose hearts are already softened.

      I’ll bet you are a blessing to those you send cards and letters to! I have a friend who sends cards periodically just to say she is thinking of me, and it is so wonderful to get some “real” mail! I think it is more about the fact that someone thought of me than of any great number of words. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7593. Could anyone read this story without desolving into tears? Isn’t it the best feeling in the whole world to get a word from God and follow it through to its joyous end?

    I am so thrilled for you, and I have a feeling you help more people than you know. I get that same should-I-shouldn’t-I feeling where I hesitate, but usually not for long.

    A wise girlfriend told me that God will never direct us to someone whose heart hasn’t already been softened by the Holy Spirit, and I have found this to be the case.

    Hugs to you. : D 😀

    Reply

    • Linda, This experience has had me smiling about how wonderful God is since it happened, though I do also understand the tears. Your girlfriend does sound wise, indeed, and I am going to remember her advice the next time I hear God leading me to write or speak to someone to provide encouragement. Thanks for the hugs! I love hugs. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7594. Had to pass on the music because ALL music is upsetting to my husband (who has Alzheimer’s : (

    But off the topic, just had to tell you that your son’s generosity (Deb’s blog) made me stop, think, and cry. What a kid.

    Reply

    • Linda, I am sorry to hear that you had to skip the music because of your husband. I don’t know what I would do without music! The lyrics to this song are so wonderful, though, even without the music. This is my favorite verse:

      Now everyone dreams of a love lasting and true
      But you and I know what this world can do
      So let’s make our steps clear that the other may see
      And I’ll wait for you
      If I should fall behind
      Wait for me

      As for my son, generosity in general is one of the gifts God has blessed him with. He used to take Pringles to school, and the teacher told me once that he was lucky if he got one out of the package because he would share them all. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7595. This was beautiful . . .brought tears to my eyes. Whenever I hear of someone we know going through a divorce, my heart breaks for them. God bless you and your music ministry to us!

    Reply

    • Deb, This song always brings tears to my eyes, but this version is particularly moving and I was so glad I found it. I know my hubby and I haven’t always been in exactly the same place over the past 25 years, but we always wait for each other. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7596. Thank you, Linda.

    Thank you for sharing this today. I love the way He uses our hands and feet to help others. ( Love the song!)

    “What would have happened if I had not listened? What if I didn’t believe God could speak to me directly about a specific thing He wanted me to do to encourage another believer and lighten her load? My colleague and fellow believer may have found encouragement elsewhere, but perhaps not. Perhaps she would still be struggling, thinking no one in her professional life understood, trying to juggle the many sticks that it was impossible for her to juggle.”

    Our God is faithful and so worthy of ALL our praise. Sometimes we don’t feel like we’re doing the right thing and we hesitate or walk away but still He presses us to respond. It was very noble of you to listen and obey… and isn’t it wonderful how the word she received was the word she needed?

    It’s great to be able to hear His voice and zone in on it above all the noise and distractions. Sometimes I convince myself that ‘my own thoughts’ are leading me even though the Gentle Nudge is telling me otherwise. I am challenged and encouraged today. I am challenged to listen more keenly to what HE says and I am encouraged to step out even when I don’t feel comfortable.

    Your post is filled with so much, Linda. I thank you for sharing.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I praise God not only for how my colleague was blessed by my listening and obeying, but by how I was blessed as well. I also find myself listening to my own thoughts, then hear God nudging me in another direction. I actually have arguments with Him sometimes in my head. When I start to argue to strenuously, that is when I know it’s time to stop and listen. I’m so glad this post was also a blessing to you! You are a light for Him and I’m am happy to be an encouragement to keep His Light burning brightly in you. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7597. Linda,
    This was not just written because it can be written but because God allowed it to be written in this time.Let God be praised.Keep ministering and blessing us.

    As I read this I remember growing up with my grandma who was the head of our extended family.She’d call all of us together at five in the morning for devotions and she’ll start singing”We need to hear from you,we need a word from you,If we don’t hear from you,what will we do,wanting you more each day to show us your perfect will” While she was singing this my cousins and I would snicker and make fun of it because we wanted to know how will she hear God. As we got to the age thirteen and she continued singing this song every morning and hearing it in church we started asking her questions,how will you hear God? How do you know when its God speaking? Why do you want God to tell you what to do? She sat us down and she said”I know that you are smart enough to get what am going to say because sometimes I think you guys put some of those words in the dictionary but listen,God gives us wisdom,that means having a clear understanding and insight.It’s telling what is right and what’s wrong.It’s having good judgement,it’s being able to sense when you’re close to the edge.It’s making the right choice or decision and only God knows what that is,that’s why I ask him to speak to me and tell me what to do.” This has stuck with me all my life and I am thankful for that.Now as I am on my own, I sing that song everyday as I wait to hear God as I pray that he’ll direct me with wisdom in all things.

    Lord,I pray for your wisdom and understanding.I know wisdom is better than gold and understanding better than silver(proverbs16:16),so make me rich in wisdom and wealthy in undertanding.Help me to wait on you to be my guide that I will hear you when you speak.My ears are wide open,if there be anything that’s making me unable to recognize your voice I cast it out now in the mighty name of Jesus.Speak lord for your servant and daughter listeneth.

    Kenisha

    Reply

    • Kenisha, Your grandma sounds like a woman wise in the ways of the Lord. And what a blessing that she passed that desire for Godly wisdom on to her grandchildnre. Thank you for adding that wonderful prayer. Wisdom is one thing I do pray for almost every morning, and He does answer that prayer. Wisdom is better than silver and earthly possessions. I am so glad He freely grants wisdom to those who ask and desire to do His will. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7598. Hi Linda – A moving, beautiful, relevant blog. For us, the passage from Isaiah was precisely on-target (and if the Lord should move you to say a prayer or two for our family, we’d love it. We believe we know what God wants to do with us right now, but we’re SURE getting a lot of efforts from the other side to stop it from happening!).

    My wife tells me that the time she first started listening to God – instead of just calling godly friends for advice – was about six years ago. She had gotten very sick (and nearly died) with what turned out to be toxic mold in our apartment. One result was that she had to be very quiet. And during that time she started listening to God – and hearing Him.

    For me, it was longer ago. Actually, it was an Episcopalian priest who spoke in our college chapel service who encouraged me to do it (and, no, I’ve never even visited an Episcopal church, but I must say he was excellent). He just talked – didn’t preach – but he certainly said a great deal! It took a bit of nerve to step out and follow his advice, but the first time I did, it worked – and of course it’s gotten easier since.

    A little later I noticed John 12:26, which says “where I am, there shall also my servant be.” That made me realize that, if I wanted to be God’s servant, instead of asking him to bless what I wanted to do, I should ask him “God, what do YOU want me to do today” – and then ask him to bless THAT.

    And what a thrill it is to find out that that works!

    We’ve had a great variety of experiences – and answers – that have come as a result. Some quite amazing. But the large majority (2/3? 3/4?) have been similar to the moving story you told above. That is, leading us to pray for someone, or encourage someone, who we didn’t know had a need.

    God bless you as you continue to listen to Him!

    Pete Ahlstrom

    Reply

    • Pete, Thanks for the confirming comment. I have a good friend who often says “God told me such and such when I was doing my hair this morning” and people look at her like she’s nuts. But I know she long ago developed the ability to listen and is well versed in the Word. (She’s in her late 80’s, I think). I had experience with her once in prayer group where the Lord kept telling me to read a passage from Ezekiel to her, but I didn’t know why. As we were about to wrap up the prayer session, I finally obeyed and said, “I have to read this to you.” It was the passage where God tells Ezekiel that whether the Israelites listen or not he is to tell them what the Lord says. She started to cry because she had felt the Lord was telling her that she needed to say something at a congregational meeting, and she had asked for confirmation because she wanted to make sure she should say it. The verse I read was her confirmation. That was probably five years ago, and I’ve slowly learned to listen to His voice more and more since. I wish I could say I always do, but I am human. I pray that some day there would be no hesitation to follow whatever He says. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Yes, I must say it’s often NOT easy to learn to listen AND act. And I’ll admit that my wife and youngest daughter are FAR better at it than I am. I have to make a real effort to listen quietly enough to hear.

        I laugh at some of my failures. Years ago, while still living in Seattle, I’d been downtown and was starting back out to Kirkland. The Evergreen Point Floating Bridge had been built by then, but the section of freeway through downtown Seattle had not. I was driving up parallel to the east shore of Lake Union, toward the right turn that would take me to the bridge. Suddenly I heard that “still, small, voice” say “Turn right, right here!” Did I turn? No, I asked God “Why?” By that time I was in the middle of the intersection, and it was too late.

        So I continued up to the usual turn. And found it was blocked for construction! (As was normal for Seattle then, there had been no advance warning signs.)

        I had to go back – and turn at the exact street where I’d heard that quiet voice! It was a very good lesson in “listening” and in following the Spirit, not my logic (and, believe me, logic was what had always been natural for me)!

        Maybe I’m improving – finally. A couple times recently the kids have asked me “Who are you, and what have you done with our father?”

  7599. Oh Linda . . .if you could just be here in my house tonight. I really felt verse 7 . . .I’m only able to come to Him because of the multitude of His mercy. Then I read 1 Corin. 10:13-14 about temptation. It has been a little tougher day with Aubrey. Needed to remember His mercy to me, cry out to Him to help me be merciful too and remember that He always provides a way out of the temptation we face. ( so here I am looking up the verse in the NT as she is making some bad choices, angry, calling me names, etc. ! His way out! Read His word and don’t react like my flesh wants to. 🙂 How awesome is that? )
    I love the Psalms all the time. It seems they always speak to me, provide prayers for me to use or someone that I am praying for.
    God bless you for being my answer to prayer tonight! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I love how the NT verse in connection with the Psalm was exactly what you needed tonight! When I read the NT verse, I couldn’t see how they were connected at all, but it just seemed like including the verse from The Psalms for Prayer was the right thing to do. How awesome is that, indeed! I will keep you in my prayers for another awesome day tomorrow. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7600. Thanks Linda,

    I find verse 8 particularly interesting – “lead me… because of mine enemies” . I’m wondering if it was His intention that His enemies see the Lord in him?

    Thanks for my Sunday dose of Psalm. Because of your emphasis, I have decided to read a Psalm (or a portion thereof) each night. For the most part, I randomly select but even then, God still sends the light of the Holy Spirit to give revelation. Super!

    Blessings and thanks again,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I tend to turn to the Psalms when I am struggling with something or feeling down. But they are good any time. I like the idea of reading a bit every night or morning. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7601. lol

    I find this now … I’m starting my workout schedule tomorrow. 🙂 A few minutes ago I felt a little pain under my shoulder and almost convinced myself to abandon the workout plan! 🙂 (Chicken?)

    Okay…. so this must be confirmation then. It’s funny, I came here to glean knowledge for my spirit man and find my Phys Ed / Religious Ed class in full swing! I shall pray as I play!

    Blessings and thanks for the push. I’m praying too!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Workout schedule? What’s a workout schedule? Can’t remember the last time I had one of those, but it’s probably a good idea in conjunction with the prayer for Holy Spirit self-control. I will keep you in my prayers that you will stick to your workout plan as well, if you will pray that I can come up with one. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7602. I’m joining in on that prayer too! I tell my self to just do something . . .even if it’s for 5 or 10 minutes. I get discouraged and think that it’s not really doing any good. But I think I read somewhere that even small amounts of exercise do really help. I may not lose weight or reshape my body, but my overall heath and strength will be better for it.
    God bless you and lead you (us!) on in healthy habits this year!

    Reply

    • Deb, Yay, now we have at least three of us praying for the discipline to be more healthy. I was thinking last night, too, about how when I walk I can imagine I’m walking with Jesus. How that guy did a lot of walking! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • That’s a wonderful idea! I don’t get to walk, but have my oldest daughter’s eliptical here, so will imagine doing that alongside Him! 🙂

    • April, I can come up with plenty of excuses, but none of them are any good! Exercise is an area where I could really use some accountability, even more so than my spiritual disciplines. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7604. I really needed to hear this today. I am such a slacker, winter and otherwise. You’re right about the either/or theory. When I’m deep in the Word I don’t do much else.

    I like your prayer for self discipline, and I will do the same. Thanks! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, One more thing we have in common! Let’s pray for each other that we have the Holy Spirit self-discipline to keep up both our spiritual and physical exercises. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7606. I loved the tips. Although I don’t do all of them, so my cooking IQ stayed right where its at . . .low! ha! But I can raise it by following you! Yay! There’s hope for me yet! 🙂 God bless you and all the ways you bless us!

    Reply

  7607. Thanks, Linda

    Thanks for the tips 🙂 . I came looking for a recipe earlier but I didn’t find you. The recipe would have been great but the tips are keepers.

    As thank you, I’d like to offer my bread recipe. (The Black and Decker bread-maker is a wonderful invention. I prefer not to eat products with preservatives so this way I can have fresh bread on demand 😉 )
    Because I use the bread-maker, I just pop the ingredients in and walk away, fresh bread in 4 hours 🙂

    I went half cranberry / half raisins instead of raisins only. I also used mixed spices instead of cinnamon and reduced the salt and sugar (for dietary reasons)

    1-1/4 cups 1 egg + water
    2 tbsp. powdered milk
    1-1/4 tsp. salt
    2 tbsp. brown sugar
    2 tbsp. butter
    3-2/3 cups white flour
    1 tsp. cinnamon
    1-1/4 tsp. yeast
    1/2 cup raisins 1/2 cup

    ADD INGREDIENTS:
    1. Measure first 8 ingredients in the order listed into Baking Pan.
    2. Insert Baking Pan into oven chamber, twist to secure. Close lid.
    3. Select:Sweet Bread Setting.
    4. Select “Regular”or “Dark” crust.
    5. Press Start – There will be a 15-minute preheat delay before
    mixing begins.
    6. Add raisins when “Add Ingredient” signal beeps.
    7. Using oven mitts,remove bread when completion beeps sound.
    8. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

    Baking Blessings, 🙂
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for the recipe! It sounds delicious. I’ve never owned a breadmaker, but I do have a birthday coming up in a few months. I might have to ask for one just so I can try this. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Linda, You’re quick 🙂

        You are most welcome. I just came back to add a note that I also used whole wheat cake and pastry flour instead of white flour .

        Happy Baking Birthday when it gets here 🙂
        ann

  7608. Linda, I am stunned. I’ve always been ashamed of my non-cooking skills, but with regard to your tips, I do everything you said except for the garlic and Rice-a-Roni, which I will be happy to try!

    My cooking IQ just went through the roof. Thank you! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, I am no chef, but I like to cook for my family. And they seem to love my cooking! For me, that’s what’s most important. Glad I could provide you some cooking encouragement. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7609. Linda, Psalm 37 has been among my family’s favorites – likely THE favorite – for years now. There are so many good verses in it; so many rich sermons that can be (and have been) written from it. Some of our favorites? Verses 1-5; 12-13, 18-20, 22-24. Right now, we’re very much experiencing verse 34. And those I didn’t mention here do fit so many people in so many situations. A wonderful Psalm!

    Reply

  7610. Great post to make me stop anew and say thanks for my job, for the opportunity to love, for my blog friends, for my kiddos smile, for oranges — I have just eaten 3 of it, thank God!

    I like your HOPE banner! 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, Those are all great things to be grateful for! I like the oranges. 🙂 I’m glad you like the banner. It is a picture I took of a wood carving that I got at the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. It is my second one because the first one fell on the floor and was shattered. But after my hope was shattered, He restored it! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7611. Yay! So thankful for your grateful poem. Loving my time here to rejuvenate and enjoy His goodness through your words, poems, scripture and everyone’s comments. So grateful for all of that! And, these last few days, our snow has melted and I’m so grateful to see the ground again! It’s mushy and muddy and messy with leaves , but oh so wonderful to me!
    God bless you as you lead us on in gratefulness!

    Reply

    • Deb, We had snow yesterday! I was shocked to look out my window while I was getting ready for work and see huge flakes coming down. But it didn’t stick much. If I was you, I’d be grateful to see the ground again, too! We have a mushy, muddy mess even without having had any real snow. But that’s Oregon for you, the land of liquid sunshine! 🙂 Peace and gratitude, Linda

      Reply

  7612. Thanks, Linda 🙂

    I am grateful for the simple things that bring joy – butterflies, flowers, gentle breeze, the ocean… BUT I think I am most grateful for those He sends to help me on my daily walk. I’m grateful for those honest enough to speak the truth in love and those loving enough to embrace me even when I’m at my worst.

    Thankful too for you and the blogging community. There’s always a prayer or a word or a song to encourage another.

    God bless you as you share. I am grateful for you.

    With gratitude,
    ann

    P.S – I think I will email Eden tonight 😉

    Reply

    • Ann, I am grateful for you, too! 🙂 You always have an encouraging word to share. I love your list of things you are grateful for and agree with them all. I especially agree with those He sends to help us. And I love your salutation! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7613. Thanks for your touching poem. My husband and I are farmers in northern Ohio, and more than growing crops, we love taking care of the animals that are part of our world… the baby deer that are born in the spring, the ducks and geese that will soon be nesting, and barn cats… what a bunch of characters.

    We delight in what God gave us to love. My husband is not a Believer, but getting closer every day, I just know it. The animals are his contact with His creation. Thanks for reminding me how grateful/thankful I really am! : )

    Reply

    • Linda, Oh yes, the animals! How could I forget. We have a dog and a cat that I just love and am grateful for. I will pray for your husband, that the Father will draw him to Jesus. We can be grateful that He is true to His Word and will grant us our prayers that are within His will (which I think this prayer falls in that category). 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Absolutely. Thank you so very much, it means alot…

        P.S. He’s 74 and has Alzheimer’s. Time may be short, by not for the Lord.

  7614. The most I was ever taught about Psalm 37:4 (my first favorite verse) is that God will indeed give you the desires of your heart, as long as they are according to His will and purpose for your life. The was a good start.

    The “liberating restrictions” and giving our hearts new desires… that is really the key, isn’t it…? At least that’s what happened (continues to happen) to me.

    You teach the Bible in a way that is full of depth but easy to grasp. I appreciate that alot. And the header for today’s lesson is very slick! ; )

    Reply

    • Linda, You are so sweet to leave such a nice comment. I agree, the new desires really is key and is what I continually experience as I delight in Him more each day. I am often amazed at the gift of being able to write the truth He teaches me – I couldn’t do it without God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7615. Linda, thank you for blessing us with the gist of Chris’ sermon. I don’t think I had ever been taught on this, so it was wonderful learning a new aspect to those so known verses. I love that! I love the part about what being free really means and what desire of our hearts is really about. God bless you for sharing these important truths!

    Reply

    • Deb, This was a bit different way for me to look at these verses, too. But it made so much sense. Our church actually posts MP3 downloads of sermons. The first 2 in the series are up already and I’ve downloaded them to put on my iPod so I can listen to them again. I might add a link to this one to this post once it’s up. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7618. I am so thrilled that you have your journals to go back to as He leads, and find these gems, these most precious poems. Love how Linda saw it helping someone looking at the meaninglessness of their life! Oh, that is true like this poem! And how Ann showed that having everything but God still leaves us so empty and wanting. Jesus fixes everything, doesn’t He. Love that , love the poem and love you! God bless!

    Reply

    • Deb, Who would have thought all this excitement over such a silly little poem? 😉 In part, I was just being lazy because I didn’t have anything to write. But I guess that was part of His plan. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7619. No God = No purpose. I had to try it both ways to see that.

    I like that your poem is a good fit not only for Believers who already live to serve Him, but also for folks who feel meaningless and can’t figure out why.

    Very profound, not a silly little poem…

    Reply

    • Linda, Thanks. I never thought of it being something for “folks who feel meaningless and can’t figure out why.” I knew there was a reason He drew me back to it to post today. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7621. Linda

    This is a beautiful poem! Thank you for sharing.

    “It simply means that in all that you do, whatever you have chosen to do to occupy your time, that you do it to your best ability and give God the glory for the blessings you enjoy and the talents He has given you to do it.”

    We can spend all our lives and effort and energy amassing all life has to offer but without Him, the rewards will only be empty and temporary. All is indeed meaningless without Him.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for your encouraging comment. I hesitated to post this one because in a way it seems like such a silly little poem that I just jotted down in my journal. I’m not even sure I thought of it as a poem when I wrote it, but when I re-read it, it seemed to be a poem indeed. I’m pretty sure I was reading Ecclesiastes at the time. 🙂 Now there’s an interesting book of the Bible. You have to get to the end before you find that although Solomon keeps saying everything is meaningless, that’s not the case when God is in it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Linda,

        That was a nice poem . ( I started out my response as ‘Thanks, Deb’. lol)

        Regardless of what we do, He has to be in it for it to matter!

        Blessings
        ann

  7622. That is so sweet that he gave that to you and wanted you to share it with us too! I like the ending, about us being able to see what others fail to see. 🙂 <3 God bless you and yours!

    Reply

    • Deb, I tried to get him to scan the sketch for me to post with it, but it was late and he was about ready for bed. I think I might ask him to sketch something for me to scan and put on my blog header. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7623. Oh Linda . . .this was such a blessing and a special gift to send out today, on Valentine’s Day, the day we celebrate Love and loving each other. God bless you and love on you today!

    Reply

    • Deb, I wanted to post a song by his wife Adie called “Overwhelm Me,” but couldn’t find a YouTube video of it. In the end, I think this one was better anyway. 🙂 Peace and love, Linda

      Reply

  7624. Psalm 37:4 Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. My first favorite verse in my very first Bible. Still warms my heart, teaches me patience, and comforts me…

    Reply

    • Linda, That’s the verse our guest minister focused on for his sermon on Sunday. He said that what this verse means is not that God will give you what you want, but that when you delight in Him, He will give you new desires of your heart that are better than what our natural desires are. I’d never thought of that before, but I really liked it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7625. Thank you, Linda, for these songs. I’ve only heard Jeremy Camp’s songs that they play on the radio, so loved this listen to a little more from him. I’m not sure, but doesn’t he have quite a testimony that goes behind this music of his? Thinking that he lost his wife to cancer, but not sure . . .
    I loved how they do show that urgency and that peace. There are still urgent times in my life when I cry out to Him! And those times when He answers and comes into my situation . . .that sense of His presence is so wonderful, even when I’m not in the midst of a trial!
    God bless you and your love of Him as you give Him your all each day!

    Reply

    • Deb, Yes, Jeremy Camp did lose his first wife to illness (I think cancer) when they had not been married very long. The title song of his CD Beyond Measure is about that loss and the surpassing love of God that came in to help him through it. He is now married to a beautiful woman named Adie who is also a singer. I saw her open for one of his concerts a few years ago and bought her CD. She has a beautiful voice!

      My favorite line in the second song is “Of your beauty I will always stand in awe.” Just to ponder His beauty and majesty do bring me such peace knowing that this awesome God of ours loves me and is merciful to me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I was just listening to KLOVE on the radio yesterday and they mentioned in the lead-in to “Healing Hand Of God” about how the loss of his wife to cancer inspired him to write that song (I suppose among many others). I didn’t realize that he had gone through this before I heard that yesterday and it just amazed me at how he was able to glorify God in the light of such a tragedy. What an awesome testimony 🙂

        Thanks for sharing these videos, Linda!

      • Loren, I’ve actually heard him give his testimony about how God brought him through it all in concert. He puts on a wonderfully worshipful (but definitely rockin’) show. Peace, Linda

  7626. Thanks Linda,

    The exchange between yourself and buttermilk80 added much food for thought to a great post. I shall get fat here today 🙂

    I’ve given my life to Him (and taken it back) many, many times. I’m learning to ‘chill’ these days … to let Him take care of it without meddling. Did I say that was easy? It is so not! But I’m getting to the point where I realize that letting Him handle it is the best way to go.

    His perfect peace passes all understanding. Praying that His perfect peace will be ours and we’ll no longer have the need to run our own lives 😉

    Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Linda, and thanks for the songs. 🙂

    Blessings,
    ann

    Where would I be if not for Your grace
    Carrying me, in every season
    Where would I be, if not for Your grace
    You came to my rescue and I want to thank You
    For Your grace!
    (Israel Houghton – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afvFhQPf5G4)

    Reply

    • Ann, I too appreciated the comments by buttermilk80, and they added much to my thinking on this topic. His website is quite good, too, with lots of short but truthful posts.

      Thank you for adding another song to the mix on this Music Monday! I love that – “Where would I be if not for Your grace?” Lost is where I would be. We sang Amazing Grace in church yesterday and it was so awesome! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7627. Indeed! How beautiful it is to have our hearts strengthened by Grace!

    With open hand, extended in peace. May God grant all who read these things, that certain and firm peace.

    by His Grace.

    Reply

  7628. We all struggle with a certain “urgency”. This urgency, however, is not God’s urgency. He is steady and pure. It is His desire that His children attain that same steadiness. I too used to feel that urgency. I just knew that I would sink back to my old ways if I didn’t appeal to Him in those precious moments. Yet, now I seek Him in a steady and peaceful manner.

    I do understand that state of urgency. But He has brought me to His steadiness. My fallings and failings are less and less an irritant. My trust in His completeness is growing every day now. May God grant that all His children rest in His inability to lie.

    By His Grace.

    Reply

    • Thank you for stopping by and leaving such a wonderful comment. There are many days when I too seek Him in a steady manner, and I always know in my heart that He is there and will never leave me nor forsake me. He has promised to complete in me the good work that He has begun, and I am completely confident that His Word is true and that He does not lie.

      The thing I like about these two Jeremy Camp songs together, and perhaps that wasn’t clear in my post, is that they highlight the transition that you mention of going from being in that state of urgency into a state of peace, of being in His presence. As I listen to these two songs, I am reminded of having made that transition, and I want to share that with my readers, some of whom are still struggling to rest completely in His grace.
      Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7629. ‘Be still…’
    The Lord has been speaking to me about this for a few days now over my anxiety on the reappearance of evil. I so wanted them to just fade away but I know I need to leave it to God. It’s not easy so please pray for me.

    Thank you Linda for the perfect timing of your post.
    He knows just what I need.
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I will certainly pray for you, that you will be enabled by His Holy Spirit to trust God in this situation. He does indeed know what each of us needs. What a wonderful and awesome God we serve. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7630. Thanks, Linda

    This is mine, gracias!
    “5 Commit everything you do to the Lord.
    Trust him, and he will help you.”

    Trusting,
    ann

    Reply

  7631. Yes, I know exactly what you mean by us bloggers practicing”humilty”when we write. There are times I have written that I felt I was too bold but got positive feed back from my readers that is what they want. Thank you for reminding us ALL writers of how we need to be bold…and to watch the “false humility.” Blessings,

    Reply

    • April, This was in large part a message for myself. I need to remember that as long as I glorify Him and give Him the credit for the good that I write, then I can confidently write boldly of His love. I don’t want Him to come back and find that I’ve buried my talent in the ground. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7632. This is great advice!!! I don’t have to deal with what David did, but I do have some in my life that scheme. And for the longest time, I let it consume me. So thankful that Jesus helped me to turn my thoughts over to Him, to think of Him, trust Him with it all. Oh . . .and I just thought of something else . . .this will be a great one to share with others in my family who worry about what someone might be up to. God bless you as you help us in Him each day!!

    Reply

    • Deb, Although our guest minister took his sermon in a completely different direction, I believe it is important to remember this aspect of the Psalm as we see so many wealthy people getting away with fraud or worse. In the end, their ill-gotten gain is all they will have. But we will have Jesus! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7634. Thank you Linda, for helping check that false humility in me. I do wonder sometimes if I should be blogging. Mostly, I feel a responsibility and just want to check and make sure that it’s about Him . . .that that is why I’m doing this. That I really am seeking to glorify Him and not myself.
    I wrote Eden today about Idylls. 🙂 Remember Nick’s poem “Hands”? It was so good, such a blessing. And in the comments he said he had no idea anyone would like it. Now, he’s thinking about writing more! Something about that . . .I just loved. Who knows what all God has placed in us that is going to come out and about for His glory, in His time?
    Thank you and God bless you for using your talents for Him and encouraging us to too!

    Reply

    • Deb, my dear, your poetry speaks to me every day of His love and mercy! Of all the blogs I read, your is the only one I go to every single day. I am always amazed by your consistency and ability to just work your way through a book of the Bible. It is good for me to see people who write in other styles than mine, which is much more scattered.

      I do remember Nick’s poem. It was awesome! And it definitely glorified God. I’m looking forward to reading more of his poetry. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7635. Linda… I love everything about this post! I vascilate between wanting to tell the whole blogosphere about how I met Jesus, and feeling like my writing style isn’t poetic and lovely enough to be worthy of His name. Also, alot of my secular readers disappeared when I started to talk about my faith. I guess that’s normal.

    I loaded Screwtape on my Kindle a few weeks ago, and you’ve motivated me to dig in. Great topic… thank you!

    Reply

    • Linda, I’m so happy that I’ve been an encouragement! Remember, Moses complained that he couldn’t speak eloquently enough, but God rebuked him and said He would give Moses the right words. I think your writing style is just wonderful and love reading about how you met Jesus. I need to get back over and see part 3 of your Driven series. As for the secular readers, you never know what seed of faith you may have planted that some day will germinate and grow. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7636. “True humility comes not when we downplay our talents, but when we point to God as their source. And when we also point to God as the source of our neighbor’s talents and rejoice in the fruits of our neighbor’s labors in employing his own talents to glorify God.”
    Linda,
    Thanks for this post.
    This paragraph really stood out … thanks so much. I have much to chew on. Shall be back.
    blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7638. My hubby and kiddos love tacos! I love tacos because it’s fun to see how each of my kiddos eat it and what they put in it — more cheese or chili sauce?
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, For many years my son wouldn’t eat tacos. Then one day he finally said he would try them and has loved them ever since. We have sort of a running joke in our family about the things he didn’t used to like, but that one by one he has learned to love! We added one to the list just tonight: marachino cherries. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7639. Loving the conversation going on here . . .from one who is the cook in the house, but maybe shouldn’t be! ha! And boy do we have food restrictions too. 😉
    Linda, does frying the tortillas make this lots better? Thinking it must, compared to the hard little crunchy ones I used to get. And can you think of something else to top with if someone didn’t like sour cream? I just can’t think of what would taste good with what . . .I am no chef. Thanks for you help! You are a blessing and I loved the pictures with this! Even think I could hear how your son asked that question. 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I like the little crunchy tortillas, but the fresh tortillas fried on very high heat are much better because they are still a little soft. But the thing that really makes these yummy is the peppers and onions. We have had them without the sour cream (because I was out) and they are still very good. In fact, I don’t think my son puts the sour cream on his. (Of course, he doesn’t eat the onions and peppers either, but what does he know, he’s a teenager!). I didn’t think of it when I posted this, because I don’t usually bother anymore, but sliced black olives are also a good topping on these tacos. I wouldn’t call myself a “chef” either. I just like good ole home cooking. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • The olives sound good for my hubby . . .he likes those! I’m excited! Believe me, Linda . . .you are a chef in my book (and compared to me!) ha! Thank you for taking the time to help me!!!!! I so need help!!!

    • Ann, I take you are not the cook in the family, since you always say you will pass my recipes on. 😉 This one is indeed quite yummy. Much better than the plain hamburger in fried flour tortillas that my mom used to make. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • lol.
        So sorry, Linda. Hope I haven’t offended you.

        I am the cook but we have rather rigid dietary restrictions so I find I have to walk away from much 🙂 (Where substitution is an option, I run with that otherwise, I just have to run away 🙂 )

        I look forward to the recipes though. I’m always on the hunt for new ones.

        thanks again,
        ann

      • Ann, Of course not! I hope I didn’t offend you by suggesting you weren’t the cook? Anyway, to say my family is not picky would be the understatement of the century. We probably should have some dietery restrictions, but we don’t. I’m pretty good at figuring out substitutions that would work in my recipes, though, so if you ever have any questions along those lines feel free to ask. Peace, Linda

  7642. Linda, I am so blessed and thankful for you and your thankful Thursday posts. 🙂 Thursdays are kind of harder days for Aub and I. To come home and find this waiting for me? I feel smiled upon. 🙂 God bless you and shine His face upon you too! love, deb
    p.s. Ann, full of grace, was here!!! I can tell . . .she left her grace prints with a song. Thank you Ann!

    Reply

    • Deb, God is so great! I’ll bet He knew all along when He prompted Ann to suggest Thankful Thursday as a theme here that you would be blessed by all the thankfullness and blessings on a day when you most need it! And that you being blessed would make me smile 🙂 🙂 🙂 . See, lots of smiles. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Talk about Him knowing what we need before we ask 😉

        Bless you, Linda, for being obedient to His direction. Thursdays have a different meaning now 🙂
        Deb, you’re so sweet 🙂 Blessings to you and yours a hundredfold!

        Jim Reeves is one of my favourites from ‘back in the day’. Glad you enjoyed. Here’s the nice line back at ya “May you walk with sun light shining and a bluebird in every tree.” 🙂

        Blessed to be a blessing,
        ann

  7644. Hi Linda,

    I did it! 🙂 I finally figured out how to post a video in there :d

    Thank you for this beautiful post. A blessing returned to you! “May the God of grace and mercy fill you with His Holy Spirit as you meet each day steadfast in the knowledge of Christ as your Savior.”

    Blessings 🙂
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, You do realize you are partly responsible for these Thankful Thursday poems because the theme was your idea! Isn’t it wonderful how God uses us to bless others (as you did in giving me this idea) and it turns around to be a blessing right back at us. I’ll go check out the video now. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7646. Thank you, Linda.

    Much to chew on …

    “Pride is rebellion against God, and it creates enmity between me and God as well as between me and my fellow human beings.”

    Funny … as I read your post I was thinking of all the things I do daily and I see where pride creeps in (in disguise).

    Thanks for the heads-up. Praying I’ll be woman enough to admit my shortcoming and child enough to seek Him for deliverance.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • April, I know my life would be better if I could do that on a consistent basis. He’s working on me to do that, at least more often than I’m in the habit of doing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7648. Linda, there is so much in this and God is using it on me right now. When I hear the gospel presented for the umpteenth time . . .and think I already know this . . .there’s pride. And it separates me from Him and from hearing what He wants me to, what I need to hear from Him in that moment. More and more I see what you have just said, whenever I have a problem, if I look deep enough, its a pride problem. Humility goes such a long way. Thank you and God bless you for bringing this message to us today. Could you please pray for me to remain humble and submitted? Thank you soooo much! love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Pride is such a problem for me so often, and it just really hit me during this sermon that I had started looking at others as the problem in difficult situations and not within myself. I am actually working on a short story for Idylls for the King that involves pride, but I’m having trouble with the ending. I will certainly keep you in my prayers and ask that you do the same for me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7649. Thanks, Linda!

    ‘Back to Square One’ has taken a whole different meaning 🙂 Nice that you finished it so many years later. That’s really cool 🙂

    Sometimes holding onto the familiar things seem to be the best way out but He still calls us to come up higher. I’m thankful!

    Is it me or does the blue look alive and vibrant? 🙂

    Glad you shared this 🙂 I’ve been contemplating posting stuff from way back then but I’m still a little shy. Eden’s idea has me thinking and now you’re making me thing even more.

    Blessings!
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Yes, I think the blue does look alive! I knew I needed some way to easily distinguish the old from the new and I think the colors accomplished that nicely. I can be a little scary sharing my old poetry, but it just seemed like the right time. Glad you enjoyed it! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I look forward to reading more, Linda 🙂

        God bless your heart for releasing this. Someone reading may be sitting on square one afraid to take the next step forward. Praying He provides breakthrough through what you have been obedient to share!

        He does make all things new. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQfc7iQecw8 ” You make all things new and I will follow You forward!”

        P.S . The colour shows up bluish purple / royal blue on my screen. It’s very pretty.

        🙂
        ann

    • Wow! I’ve heard of getting two thumbs up, but never three! Thanks. It was pretty cool how God led me back to the poem and the idea to finish it. I was surprised by the “narrow path” that I wrote of in the original part, never thinking of the narrow gate that Jesus says we must go through. Anyway, thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7651. I wanted to push the like and rate buttons a zillion times . . .but I resisted. So I’ll just tell you YAY!!!! I’m blown away that you wrote that back then. . .and then now He brings you to it and lets you finish it. Wow! Linda, would you mind sharing some of what was going on in the first part? Did you know Jesus then? Or did you know Him and started writing this, just to show how someone or yourself might feel before hand? It really touches me . . .all of it. And the ending is just perfect. 🙂 God bless you and all the ways He testifies of His goodness and grace through you! love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I had a feeling you would like this poem. It was pretty amazing how He brought me back to it just this weekend and reminded me that it didn’t end there. At the time I wrote this I was a Christian. I had been baptized about 7 years before, though I’d believed in God and Jesus since I was a kid. But when I wrote this I was going through major clinical depression. I believed but didn’t spend any time in the Word or even going to church. I hadn’t really given my life to Him. That didn’t happen until 1998! Oh what a happy day that was!! It’s very interesting for me to read my journal from when I was really depressed. It seems like a completely different person. And I guess I was because He has made me a new creation! He is, indeed, full of goodness and grace! No one will ever be able to convince me otherwise.

      This all reminds me of something I read in a comment several months ago. “The man with an experience will never be at the mercy of the man with a theory.” I have experienced what God can and does do for those who choose to follow Him. He even sometimes starts working in our lives before we’ve even made that decision. 🙂 And that, my friend, is the sign of a good and merciful God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7652. I have some Casting Crowns on a praise and worship playlist, but not this song. It’s iPod worthy, for sure! Thanks for the recommenation…

    Reply

  7653. Ann is a blessing and so are you! I had never heard of this and it was very beautiful. I loved hearing how you discovered singing and prayer and worship was all the same. God is soooo good. God bless you and all the ways He leads you closer to Him.

    Reply

    • Deb, It was quite wonderful, and I plan to attend again! It was a wonderful end to a stressful week. Since then I’ve been noticing how much of the music I listen to really is prayer, especially Jeremy Camp. God is so good to bless me so. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7654. Oh my . . .Aub and I were here swaying and singing! 🙂 I really like Casting Crowns and hadn’t heard this one before. Thank you so much for taking the time to post songs on Monday. They really make our day! 🙂
    love, deb
    p.s. this reminded me of Ben . . .Justified Freely! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I am so blessed to know you and Aubrey enjoyed this so much! 🙂 I really like Casting Crowns, too. And I thought the person who put the video together did an awesome job! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Me too!!! All of it was good, so good, but there was something about the one of Jesus knocking on the door . . .that one really got me!

      • That is a good one. I have a picture very similar to that hanging on my living room wall, with Revelation 3:20 printed below it: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” I love that verse. 🙂

  7655. Oh wow…

    Thanks, Linda. Sounds like it was a truly wonderful time of communing with Him. 🙂

    I was reading Psalm 51 last night and as I read the prayer for cleansing, I thought about the position David found himself in and yet he chose to turn to God. As I looked at the title, I noticed it said “for the director of music’. He prayed in song!

    Bless you, Linda for helping us to see so much more. May He pour back into you a hundredfold!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7656. Thank God for his forgiveness and his arms wide-stretched when we confess and come to him broken.He sees us better than we see ourselves.Thank you Linda for sharing and reminding us that God hears and he cares.

    Kenisha

    Reply

  7657. Linda thank God that I didn’t listen to the little bird these last few days though it’s so tempting! So so so temppppppTING!

    But it is good when I chose to compose myself for God.
    🙂

    Reply

  7658. Thanks for sharing Psalm 51, one of my favorites.

    I like David’s heart… like that in spite of all his power and riches, he has such a tender love and reverence for God. It’s not that complicated… wish we could all follow his lead.

    Reply

    • Linda, This Psalm is a great example of David’s heart, and how he was humbled by His own sin and pride, as well as by the mercy and greatness of God. If we could all give up our pride as David did, what a wonderful world we would live in. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7659. Thank you, Linda. This is another one of my faves!

    He can see deep inside the heart. It comforts me to know that when I bare my soul before Him, He sees what’s inside and He chooses to love me anyway. I just cannot get over that!

    Thankful He will not despise the broken spirit and contrite heart that I bring to Him.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7660. This really spoke to me today. Thank you so much for doing a Psalm Sunday post! I’m being humbled right now, needed it, and so crying and crying out to Him a lot. God bless you as He speaks to us through you each day. You are such a lovely vessel of His!
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, You should have heard Chris’ sermon today on this Psalm! It was so wonderful. Convicting, but full of joy. It was all about pride and humility. The Lord will not despise the humble, contrite heart that you offer. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • That sermon would have really put me over the edge, but right where I need to be. 🙂 Thank you so much for ministering to me!

    • Chris, Thanks! I’ve enjoyed hearing you speak at C of F. Your sermon today gave me the key missing piece to a short story I’m working on for another blog that I contribute to. See you next week. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7662. Hi Linda,
    Such true words! I’ve sometimes wondered about David’s prayers for God to “smite” his enemies… and I have at times prayed these myself, not so much against individuals, but against powers and principalities seeking to destroy God’s people. Understanding that we wrestle not against flesh and blood is key in knowing how to pray. Discernment is wisdom to know the difference. Generally speaking, we pray as Jesus prayed for those who despitefully used him, but how do we reckon with those who are clearly being used by “the little bird” to kill, steal, and destroy?

    Thank you for this timely post, as I’ve recently found myself saying, “All we did for her and not even a ‘thank you’!” This just inspires me to keep on giving, regardless.

    ~ Love and blessings
    http://debrasblogpureandsimple.blogspot.com

    Reply

    • Debra, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. So glad this post was timely for you. I love when God works like that. I’m never sure what to do about those who are willingly or unknowingly being used by “the little bird.” But I believe prayer for discernment and wisdom is key.

      I will have to check out your blog, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7663. You go, Linda!

    Yesterday while I was in the supermarket I saw a lady with a nice steak. I felt a push to pick one up but I shrugged it off … I could kick myself now 🙂

    I ought to try this recipe soon … I’m thinking I could sub with brown rice although the potatoes are calling me too :-).

    Blessings and thanks again.
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It would be delicious with brown rice. We do usually have it with potatoes, but we’d had a lot of potatoes in the few days prior to my making this so I went with rice for a change. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7664. This post meant so much to me. That little bird has been fluttering about lately. And I’ve been extra tired, not tossing it out the window like I should. God bless you and thank you for being His voice to me today! p.s. If I let the little bird stay too long, it grows to the size of a vulture and gets much harder to resist and remove!

    Reply

    • Deb, That is so true! The longer you let the little bird stay, the bigger and uglier he gets. Over and over scripture tells us to not let Satan have a foothold, for then he will try to hang on all the more. So glad this came at a much needed time for you. It didn’t exactly come out of thin air for me, as the little bird has been hanging around here, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7665. Linda,
    Someone once told me that compassion is ‘undeserved love in action’. I thought of that when I read your post. Thanks for reminding us of this part of our Christian ‘duty’.

    “It didn’t matter if the people appreciated what He was doing for them, He did it anyway. He did it because He really loved them.”
    The cross is the perfect demonstration of how we ought to respond to those He sends our way – regardless of their response.

    May our responses always reflect the Christ in us.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Ann, I like that definition of compassion! It is so true. Thank you for the prayer that our responses may always reflect Christ. I need that prayer today and always. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7666. I love your recipes. Going to ask about this one. Maybe we can wear him down. 🙂 haha! God bless you and your family . . .and your cooking!
    love, deb
    ps. thanks again for such a good poem at Idylls . . .and such a good comment at debs blog. 🙂

    Reply

      • Surely he will! haha! It’s the steak with V8 part . . .he likes rib eyes, cooked on the grill. . .:) Some days now are a little “breezy” for cooking out, but I figure if my friend in Alaska can do it, surely this midwesterner can too! 🙂

      • Deb, I like a good rib eye on the grill, too! But my Traeger hasn’t been working for months. Everytime rib eyes are on sale at my local grocery store, I get frustrated because once you’ve had them on the Traeger you just can’t eat them any other way! But this recipe keeps me inside when it’s cold and is just so easy. My son complains because he doesn’t like the V8 on it, so this last time I moved two pieces of cube steak to another small pan to finish cooking before I put the V8 in. Then he says, “Oh, I would have eaten Swiss Steak.” Teenagers! Peace, Linda

  7667. So, so beautiful, the poem and the video! Oh how He moves through you! Thank you for being such a lovely and vibrant instrument of His!
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, The poem actually came to me during my morning prayer time. I had to get up and get a piece of paper to write it down because I was afraid I would forget! I don’t seem to write much down on paper these days, but this poem of His was too good to let get away. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7670. “All that we “have” really isn’t ours and we have no grounds for laying claim to any of it.”
    “Thankfully, He has decided that anyone who humbly accepts and follows His Son Jesus can enjoy the blessings of heaven. We aren’t entitled, but He has blessed us nonetheless.”

    Thank you, Linda. I can never understand the way He loves. Hope this song says what I’m trying to say. I feel a little tongue-tied 🙂

    Remind me dear Lord – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTnxi4nk3bU&feature=related

    The things that I love and hold dear to my heart
    Are just borrowed they are not mine at all
    Jesus only let me use them to brighten my life
    So remind me, remind me dear Lord

    Roll back the curtains of memory now and then
    Show me where you brought me from and where I could have been
    Remember I’m human and humans forget
    So remind me, remind me dear Lord.

    …The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed (praised and magnified in worship) be the name of the Lord! Job 1:21

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7671. I love that “He chose to give us birth through the word of truth . . .” He chose to. To me, that kind of halts the entitlement thing. ha! God bless you and your humble heart for Him!

    Reply

  7672. I’ve been at blissdom and now have blissdom plague – blech. I missed your words.

    That is so good Linda. We can’t get there and as you said “we don’t have to”. God is good. He really is.

    Thank you for this.

    God Bless

    Reply

    • Craig, I’m not sure what blissdom is but I hope it was a good thing; it sounds kind of good except you said “blech” so I’m not sure. Glad you liked the post. It was for all of us standing at the bottom of the mountain saying, “Help, Dad, come get me!” 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7673. Linda, your writing and messages (His through you) just get better and better. I thought this was excellent. I never thought of it that way before, being exclusive by supposing they had a higher up view of it all, excluding those who believed differently. And the fact that we don’t follow a path exactly anyway . . .we follow Jesus. Wonderful. I am encouraged and boosted in my faith from this!!! 🙂
    God bless you , lovely Linda, as you let the Holy Spirit write through you each day.

    Reply

    • Deb, I can’t take credit for the first part, that was Chris’ idea. Well, I guess I really can’t take credit for any of it, that was the Holy Spirit! I have enjoyed using my God-given writing talents for Him, though. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7674. This gives me so much comfort Linda. Simply thinking that I’ll do it alone I am so sure that I will fail — so insurmountable but with Christ not impossible at all.

    “God, I can’t make it up this mountain to You and I need You to come get me.” And so I say too.
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I can see Him swooping down to get you with a big smile on His face! Isn’t it awesome that we don’t have to figure out the right path or climb the mountain? Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7676. Linda . . .how you bless us. This post is amazingly full of Him. Audio Adrenaline . . . I have this one! I haven’t listened for so long but so, so loved hearing it again. And, I’m going to get a copy for my brother. He’s a saved rocker, who too struggled to find something he could relate to. Oh how you blessed me and now you will bless him too. And so many others. Like Ann . . .love you, Ann. Crying with you, just because He does stuff like that, joins us, connects us.
    Okay, going to go. Babbling. God bless you Linda , as you rock for your King!

    Reply

  7677. Okay Linda . . .you just made my day! 🙂 My smile is so big, my face is hurting. Aub was in the tub so couldn’t see the videos, but she danced in there . . .not easy to do, but how could you not to that??? God bless you and thank you for taking the time to share music that moves us for Him! love you!
    deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I think I listened to that song about 6 or 7 times while putting this post together, and I never get tired of it. When I listen to it in the car I have to try to sing along, which is not as easy as it sounds! So glad you enjoyed it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7678. Thank you, Linda

    “Do you have some kingdom you are trying to rule on your own? Are you finding that isn’t working out so well for you? ”
    I struggled to put up this morning’s entry. I second guessed myself many times but I’m thankful God gave me the courage to schedule it.Because the King of Kings bled for me, I don’t have to carry the stones anymore.

    I’m thankful for His blood that covers my myriad sins. I’m thankful that His blood will cover me but I can’t drown in it. I’m thankful that His blood covers all and it’s a great thing to wear the mark of His stains.

    Linda, we have never met (at least not to my knowledge), but God has been doing something in my life through what I’ve been reading here and on the other blogs. I started my blog following a huge life crisis. I have been writing for years but I refused to go public. Now I read this : “What I write here is of no consequence unless I seek to be led by the Holy Spirit and to glorify the King of kings.” You have no idea…

    Thank you, Linda. May the blood the King of Kings shed cover us all. May the gifts He has placed in us so grow and multiply that others will want to know Him based on the fruit we bear.

    “The King of kings is there for you; you can ask Him to take control of your little kingdom and He will gladly rule it wisely and with love.” Thank you, Linda. I’ve given Him the stones.

    God bless you. I’m afraid to read the other pages I normally visit. I cry easily sometimes.

    On His Altar,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I always love your thoughtful and heartfelt comments. Although we have not met, I believe that when we get to heaven we will recognize one another. I believe that will be the case with this whole wonderful Christian blogging community. He has blessed me by what I have read at your blog and others, too, and is changing me, moulding me like clay. I’m not the king, but that’s okay with me. I know the King of kings, and that’s so much more important. Peace, Linda

      P.S., I know what you mean about crying easily. I sometimes read blogs on my lunch hour at work, or take a quick break when I’m feeling overwhelmed, but sometimes that backfires a bit as what I read brings tears to my eyes. Thankfully they are usually cleansing tears that I needed to get over the overwhelmed feeling. 🙂

      Reply

      • Linda,
        Way back then the computers I knew had black screen with orange or green lettering. I didn’t know about the internet and the term blog did not even exist. 🙂
        Ministry and evangelism were done on a face to face basis… I never imagined there would be a time that God would use people I’ve never met to bring me this depth of encouragement from miles and miles and miles away!
        God bless you and all my blogging pals who’ve been faithful to share what God placed on their hearts .
        In His Service,
        ann

      • Ann, Times have certainly changed, but thankfully God has not. I sometimes think of all the bad stuff that happens because of the Internet and am reminded of Joseph saying to his brothers, “What Satan meant for evil, God has used for good.” God is using the Internet and blogs to spread His Word and His love where it might otherwise never have reached. When I look at my blog stats though a service I signed up for called Clicky I am always amazed to see that I have people reading my blog from places like Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Japan, South Africa, and many others. It is really quite exciting what God is doing these days. Peace, Linda

  7679. How wonderful for you to put up a post about it! You are so right . . .Eden could fill a blog with her wonderful writing and we would love it, just like that! How gracious of her to give us all a place to share work that God gives us, that might not fit on our blogs . . .or for those who don’t blog. 🙂
    You might be surprised at what comes out of you, Linda! 🙂 ha! I joined a writing project last year. We were to write for 24 days of the month of August , something each day, and then revise for the last 7 days, reporting in and sharing our work if we wanted. I thought I would mostly write poems, because that’s what I mostly do. Instead I was intrigued and came up with some short fiction, prose poems, twitter length poems and fiction . . .all kinds of things I’d never done before. It was fun! Not saying they were good . . .and I was in with really good writers who got their work published . . .but it was a growing time and fun! ha!
    God bless you and all the places He leads you!
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I don’t know how I’m going to keep up daily posts here and contribute to Idylls for the King, but I guess there’s no pressure to how often I post there. Whenever the Holy Spirit gives me a story, I’ll type it up and submit it. It will be interesting to see where this new adventure goes! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • You’re absolutely right . . .no pressure to post there all the time. Just whenever God moves us to. I did ask Eden about that, if we should wait so many days to submit more or not. She said to go ahead and submit whenever we want. She will let others come before us before posting something more from us. 🙂 Thanks for being willing to join in on this!

  7680. Amen, Ann! 🙂
    I loved thinking about how His name fills the earth! Thank you so much for your faithfulness to bring us a post each day that always honors and glorifies Jesus, and helps us lift up praise too! 🙂 God bless you and give you strength and grace for the work week!

    Reply

    • Deb, I appreciate the positive feedback on Psalm Sunday. It’s so easy for me, but I guess it’s God’s Word and that is always bound to be a blessing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7681. Thanks Linda.

    The Screwtape letters give much food for thought. Started re-reading the other day and misplaced my copy. Thanks for sharing these wonderful insights. I’ll get a replacement copy but in the mean time, I’ll learn again through you 🙂

    Have you ever written your personal response to Wormwood or Screwtape?

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It is a great book. C.S. Lewis was such a wonderful writer. I’ve never thought to write a response to Wormwood or Screwtape. Perhaps when I finish with the last of my posts on the book I will consider concluding the “series” with that. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7682. Thanks Linda,

    Our God is worthy to be praised 🙂 In the big scheme of things we’re not even ‘dots’, yet He takes an interest in us. That’s more than reason to praise!

    God bless you,
    ann

    Reply

  7683. This is one of my favorite CS Lewis books! I like what you took from it for this post, and look forward to reading more! I don’t get on my knees nearly as much as I should. Mainly because it’s so hard to get back up! But I do like the thought that, on my knees, I am less likely to become distracted, which is another problem I tend to have.
    Thanks for the post!

    Reply

    • I love anything by C.S. Lewis, but this is one of my favoites, too. I can relate the the difficulty getting back up. Kneeling to pray and leaning on my elbows can result in pain for me, but I do it anyway and don’t allow the real enemy to prevent me from doing so. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7684. G-od’s love
    L-ead me out of the darkness
    A-llowing myself to live again with zest
    D-oubting no more that He is always with me.

    Your gladness is inspiring Linda! Thank you for the opportunity to share God’s love.
    🙂

    Reply

  7685. The book is very interesting and yes I can see the truth in it. I do not kneel all the time but so thank you Linda for the reminder that I may consciously choose to do so.

    I would like to imagine Wormwood and Screwtape frowning 🙂

    Reply

  7686. What a great blog post Linda, and such a relevant subject that we can all benefit from and have been talking about in our blog communities! The way you develop an idea and see it to fruition for Him, is a work of art, by the way. 🙂 Kneeling to pray, I agree, helps me so much to stay focused. I confess, I don’t always do it. But this sharing will spur me on to be more consistent at it! Thank you and God bless you, Linda. If you can pray on your knees, with pain, then surely I can too!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are such a wonderful encourager! Thank you for this kind comment. For me, kneeling was a matter of finding a place and once I did that it was much easier to make it a habit. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7687. I get on my knees when I pray and I have also literally gone into a closet and had conversation with God. I just bought a collection of CS Lewis last week with Screwtape Letters in this collection which is the one I want to
    re read first! Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

    Reply

    • April, I’ve never tried the prayer closet before, but I can see how it would be conducive to some great, intimate conversation with God. I have lots of CS Lewis. He is my favorite Christian author. But sometimes I don’t have enough concentration to get through some of his stuff. I’ve started The Problem of Pain several times, and I know there is good advice in it, but can’t seem to keep going. I hope you enjoy your new collection. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7688. Hello Linda,
    Hope this doesn’t come across too spammy, but I’m trying to get a new blog together that will be more of a Christian literary journal called Idylls For the King where others can contribute poems, fiction, and song lyrics. It would be great if you would have a look at the site (http://idyllsfortheking.wordpress.com/). If you think you might like to contribute something, just send me an email. Blessings!
    Eden

    Reply

    • Eden, This isn’t “spammy” at all! I am honored that you would ask me to contribute something to Idylls for the King. I will certainly think about it. Now that I am blogging every day for 2011, I don’t know if I will have time, unless you wouldn’t care if something was posted in both places. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • It is fine if it is posted in both places 🙂 Let me know if you decide you want to post something and I will make you a contributer to the site. Blessings!
        Eden

  7690. Laughing about this not being low fat and getting hungry for lasagna! Feel like Garfield! This was so professional Linda, with the pictures and instructions. Watch out . . .the Food Network is going to want you working for them!!!
    God bless you and your wonderful sharing of yourself and your Savior! and your favorite recipes! yum.

    Reply

    • Deb, Adding the pictures was so much fun! You may not have noticed, but I went back and added a picture of Texas Skillet Dinner to that recipe, too. Maybe if you showed your hubby how yummy it looks he might be willing to try it even though it is a rice dish. 😉 I also added a Recipe Index page to make it easier for me and everyone else to find a specific recipe.

      As for Food Network, I doubt they will come looking for me, but I have made it onto the Foodpress page! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • congratulations! I just thought it was excellent! and I love the recipe index page idea . . .thank you. My own personal online cookbook! You gotta laugh at my hubby . . .or cry. ha! I gotta laugh! A sister-in-law got me a Paula Dean recipe calendar. Flipping through it with my hubby, I asked if he’d eat this month’s recipe or the next one . . .NOPE! ha! to all twelve months of mouth watering pictures of food. We won’t tell Paula . . .:) God bless you and tenderly care for you this weekend. Hope it is all good for you!

  7691. Thanks Linda,
    There are people in this house who will eat lasagna 24-7 . I’ll gladly share your recipe. 🙂 🙂

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, My family will eat anything I cook, but this is definitely one of their favorites. You’ll have to let me know if anyone in your house tries it out. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7692. Hi Linda…
    I saw your comment at Deb’s blog, clicked on the pic, and read that you are a Jesus Freak! Could there ever be a sweeter bio than that? So I had to find you, read more, make a note to come back.

    (I, too, have stories that spin themselves in my head until I write them down and make more room. Never heard anyone else who operated that way! : )

    Linda

    Reply

    • Linda, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. It’s so nice to meet another Linda, especially one who has some similar characteristics. 😉 I didn’t know there was anyone else who had stories that go round and round in their head until they are committed to paper either! That is so cool. I will have to check out your blog, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7693. Hello Linda,

    “This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it”! I am also glad, because I found your blog! 🙂 God bless!

    Paulette

    Reply

    • Paulette, Thank you for adding that scripture! It’s a perfect addition to the post. So glad you stopped by. I’ve seen your comments on Ann’s blog. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7694. Your thankful Thursdays are infectious! Loving the scriptures and thoughts of being glad and how it is directly related to His salvation. How wonderfully glad I am of that! 🙂 God bless you and surround you with His gladness and joy!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m just glad I don’t have to write poetry every day! It’s a lot harder than prose. 😉 It’s fun, though and I’ll gladly continue to attempt poetry for Thankful Thursday. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Linda, these poems of yours are so good . . .but they are harder to do than the ones I jot down! The acrostics bend my brain! Good thing you have a good thinker on your shoulders! 🙂

      • Deb, That’s so funny! I need the structure of an acrostic to write poetry most of the time. I think it’s easier than the poetry you write. I guess it’s a good thing we both have the Holy Spirit to help us. 🙂 Peace, Linda

  7695. “He has made me glad and I’ll say of the Lord :
    You are my Shield, my Strength My Portion Deliverer My Shelter, Strong Tower … ” – Alvin Slaughter

    Simply wonderful!! Thanks Linda! I have much to be glad about. I will gladly give thanks to Him for this gladness! 🙂

    Glad in Him,
    ann

    Reply

  7696. Thanks, Linda

    So looking forward to that day! Imagine … all the cares of life finally over! What a glorious day that will be indeed!

    @ Deb – love the love notes 🙂

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7697. I love those glimpses of heaven too, Linda. It’s so easy some days to only see the bad. But He is here. Someone once told me those glimpses we see are His love notes to us. I really liked that . . .and this post! God bless you and all the ways you help us see Jesus now!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love that idea that our glimpses of heaven are God’s love notes to us! I’ve heard as the Bible referred to as His love letter, which I like, too. And I was right about the greeting I got when I got home. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7698. Thank you Linda for sharing this. This means a lot. I have freckles, I have dry feet, I have fats and my face will never be on magazine cover but I never felt inferior or ugly until someone made me felt so. It hurt so much but have to win the battle within because I don’t want to live the rest of my life believing that I am ugly because of this external things. Should I accept that I’m ugly because my freckles will never ever say goodbye? Because my feet that were forced to drink lotions and oils but throwing it out couldn’t be as smooth as others? Because my fat is so fat?*grin* This I can do something about not because I want to be a model but to practice moderation.*grin again*

    Where am I now? Ah..I am not ugly! Ask my Father! 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I’m far from perfect, too. But He has been making my insides more beautiful each day, and that’s what matters. I could stand to loose a little fat, too, but not to be a model, just to be healthier. 😉 As I ready you last sentence I was reminded of my Music Monday Extra from a few weeks ago, the song Beautiful by MercyMe. We are beautiful in our Father’s eyes. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7699. Hi Linda,
    This is such a real problem with us today that we look at the outward to measure a person’s worth… how much, how beautiful, how tall, how slender… Jesus was never described as handsome or stunning in His looks but His heart had greater worth than all the world’s hearts put together because in Him is love that is more than enough for the entire mankind. Thank you for sharing the video and that beautiful passage from Proverbs which certainly helps us to see the beauty of God’s creation through His eyes.
    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, There is scripture that says man looks at the outward appearances, but God sees the heart. We must strive to put the Holy Spirit in control so that we too are compelled to put more focus on the heart than on the outside. May God bless you as you raise your children to know the truth of what is important to our Savior. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7700. “We must teach our children that character and godliness are the most important traits for them to desire and prize above all else.”

    We have so lost it… We’ve lost so much. Why we have become so hung-up on physical attributes is beyond me. “The woman with a beautiful character will bring happiness and contentment to those around her…” How did this message get lost in the ‘perfection propaganda’?

    “It will take effort to impart this wisdom because we must combat the many lies that bombard our children every day. More and more videos like the one above are being posted on the Internet everyday. It is wonderful that they are there to expose the lies about physical beauty. But we must do more than just expose the lies; we must replace them with the truth.” I just shared the link with a young one. Praying the truth of God will be revealed to her.

    Thank you, Linda. This is very close to my heart.

    God bless you,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, It happened because those in charge of advertising and media have bought into the lies of the evil one and believe them to be truth. They can make money to satisfy their greed by exploiting the lies. We must stand firm on the truth and expose the lies to those people God puts in our path. Thank you for sharing this with a young one. I will pray the truth is revealed to her. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7701. Thank you Linda, for sharing such an important message with us. We can know this, know that God sees us differently, sees inside us, that that is where true beauty is . . .but still be affected by what we see all around us. It is hard to not want to be beautiful like what we see and hard when we fail to be able to. I love the idea of matching God’s ideas on beauty with Jean’s message. It’s one thing to expose a problem . . .but we need Him to heal it. God bless you and your beauty in Him, inside and out!

    Reply

    • Deb, The lies of the media are twofold. One lie is that there is a standard of physical beauty that must be achieved to be truly “beautiful” on the outside. I don’t meet that standard by a long shot, but my husband says I am beautiful and I believe him. The second is that physical beauty is most important. God reveals that it is not, and I believe Him. 🙂 I’ve never seen you, but I know that you are beautiful inside and out, too! Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I loved your reply! And I think all of this made a couple things stand out to me. I struggled a lot with “looks” when I was younger, as many young people do. I just don’t think about it now, don’t think about how I look beyond the obvious things (washed and brushed and covered). I love getting this chance to look at how He’s changed me to seeing myself as beautiful (dare I say that?) . . .or maybe it’s more about seeing Him as beautiful and in me and so I’m okay with what I see.
        You talked in your reply about your husband thinking you are beautiful, and I love that too. I think that is so important for young girls . . .to have earthly daddies who love them and tell them how beautiful they are and to show them how loved they are, to combat all the enemy says to them each day. Not all of us will have dads or husbands to tell us that, so we get to share with them what their Father says , how precious they are and beautiful to Him. 🙂 Thank you Linda for doing just that here!

  7702. Hi Linda,
    Thank you for reminding us of what we would do for heaven’s sake. Yesterday our pastor shared 2 quotes by Dietrich Bonhoffer, a pastor who was killed by Hitler, on cheap and costly grace. Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again and again, the gift which must be asked for, the door at which a man must knock. Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of his Son: “ye were bought at a price,” and what has cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon his Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but delivered him up for us. Costly grace is the Incarnation of God. (http://www.crossroad.to/Persecution/Bonhoffer.html).

    I pray that we will never forget God’s amazing grace that set us free from the yoke of slavery. Thank you again for your gentle but firm reminder on what we are willing to do.

    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, I have read a little bit of what Bonhoffer has written and it is very powerful. He definitely understood the cost of holding onto the grace of God offered through Jesus. And yet, in spite of the cost, the gift of salvation is free for the asking. One need not pay any price or do any acts of service to merit it. But once the gift is received, it compels the recipient to offer service as an act of gratitude. Thanks for sharing what you heard in church yesterday. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7703. Love this so much Linda . . .it makes me cry. Just something about Johnny Cash, isn’t there? A genuineness that touches us deeply.
    God bless you and the way you know what we need to hear!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve read a couple of biographies of Johnny Cash and his story is just so genuine. I still remember the day he died I was so sad, and at the same time glad for him that he had finally gone home. This song always makes me cry, too, and look forward to the day when I will be wayfaring no more. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7704. For Heaven’s sake, I will.

    “This world is full of people who are lost and hurting, and it is the purpose of the church and each Christian to shine the light of Christ on them so that they might see God’s love for them.”

    Thank you Linda. The sooner we realize we’re not all small islands and that we need each other, the better it will be. Prayer is wonderful but acts of kindness won’t hurt either.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, There are so many passages in both the Old Testament and the New Testament in which God makes it clear that taking care of the widows and orphans, the poor and the downtrodden, is a priority for Him. I think it is essential that we make it a priority, too. We do need each other, though being dependent is a stumbling block for many, even Christians. Thanks for being there for me! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7705. This was just beautiful . . .and convicting. And I needed to be convicted, all the time really. I don’t want to forget that I’m not here for me . . .but for His sake. God bless you and your ministry for Him.

    Reply

    • Deb, There is a book by Max Lucado called “It’s not about me.” It is a great reminder that it is not about me but what I can do for Jesus and for those He loves. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7706. “You see me when I travel
    and when I rest at home . . .”
    How perfect for you and for everyone today! We have a mobile, everywhere all knowing wonderful loving God! 🙂
    Thank you and God bless your conference time.
    love,
    deb

    Reply

  7707. My all-time favourite passage of scripture! yay!!

    ” 5 You go before me and follow me.
    You place your hand of blessing on my head.
    6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
    too great for me to understand!”

    Thanks kindly, Linda.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, That’s right! I forgot this was your favorite Psalm. It is a great one. I reread it this morning before I headed down to my conference meetings. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7709. God bless you, Linda, on this current trip and on the journey to heaven as well. You are ready and prepared to go. Thank you for helping us all be ready too! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I suspect we may not ever meet face to face here on earth, but I’m looking forward to hanging out together around the throne when we get to heaven! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7710. Hi Linda,
    Ann asked me to visit this post to see the similarity and I’m so glad she did because what you wrote is true. The only hope we have is Jesus Christ and nothing in this world will ever compare. Thank you for sharing this and I pray God will continue to bless your ministering of His word for His glory.
    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, Thank you for such a nice comment! I love it when someone else sees a connection between multiple bloggers’ posts. It is so wonderful to have gotten to know so many Christian bloggers like you and Ann and Deb and so many others, and to see how He is at work in all that we write. May He continue to bless your blogging ministry, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7711. Hi Linda,
    I did a lot of moving around at one point in my life. It always bugged me when I had to pack and move. Your post reminds me of the song below (third stanza being my favourite).
    “Thankfully, the only essential preparation for our trip to heaven is to trust in Jesus. ”
    Bless you for sharing Linda. Looking forward to that trip! I pray we’ll all be ready for that big day.
    Blessings
    ann

    1. I’ve been traveling for Jesus so much of my life,
    Been traveling o’er land and on sea.
    But I’m planning on taking a trip to the sky,
    That will be the last move for me.

    CHORUS:
    When I move to the sky up in heaven so high
    What a wonderful time that will be.
    I’m ready to go washed in Calvary’s flow.
    That will be the last move for me.

    2. I’ve seen wonderful sights as I traveled afar.
    How little, how empty they seem.
    When I make my last move to that city of gold
    That will be the last move for me.

    3. Here I’m bothered with packing each time that I move
    And carry a load in each hand,
    But I’ll not need one thing that I’ve used in this world
    When I move to that heavenly land.

    4. Everything that I’ll need will be furnished up there
    Not even my song books I’ll bring,
    Or the precious old Bible that showed me the way
    I’ll not need when I stand by my King.

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks for sharing that song! It’s a perfect addition to this post. I actually haven’t moved in 22 years, though I did have to pack up almost everything and put it in storage two years ago when we remodeled our house. Got rid of a lot of stuff in that process. But I like how this song points out we won’t need any of that stuff when we go to heaven. Not even our Bibles because we will have the Word of God in the flesh right there! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Rea, My goal is the spread the “secret” around, because I don’t think Jesus wanted it to be a secret. In fact, He told His disciples to go and tell everyone! So that’s what I’m trying to do. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7713. Thank you wonder woman, who works all day and cooks all night! 😉 You know, you’re making us look bad. ha!
    I’ve never had polenta either!!! Thank you for broadening our horizons and taste buds!

    Reply

    • Deb, Cooking is about the only household chore I am any good at! You will love this polenta, and hopefully you can get your hubby to try it. Tonight I made lasagne (and took pictures) so my husband and son will have leftovers to eat while I’m in San Francisco at a conference for a few days. It will be next week’s recipe. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Eden, There is a picture of what the brand I buy looks like on my other Polenta recipe. I know there are people who buy dry corn meal and make their own polenta, but that is just way too much work! I’m all about easy recipes. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7716. I’m contented with your thankful Thursday with each related word you are presenting. Thanks Linda!

    Can I possibly be contented
    Outside of his circle of love?
    Never is the answer
    That I come to realize.
    Everything doesn’t matter,
    Not the fragile relationships or
    Treasures on hand.
    Everything is nothing without Him;
    Definitely contentment is with Him.
    🙂

    Reply

  7718. I really needed a dose of this beautiful contentment in Jesus and what He provides. Today was one of those days that I didn’t get to pray before taking off. argh! That cloud came upon me while I worked, and I began to pray there. By the time I got home . . .and tapped into some blogs . . .He has lifted me again. Thank you and God bless these thankful Thursdays!

    Reply

    • Deb, What’s funny is that I actually wrote this poem last weekend, but saved it as a draft then scheduled it for today. I am really enjoying having some structure to the blog with the various theme days, and I’m so glad I learned that you can schedule a post to be published at some time in the future because I had no time for writing a post today! I’m glad this poem blessed you. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • April, I think the important thing to remember is that joy and contentment are not the same as worldly happiness. Generally, they are much better! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for pointing out the connection between my post today and Vineet’s! Those spiritual riches are what truly make us content. Earthly riches will disappoint in the end. Peace, Linda
      P.S. I’m loving this Thankful Thursday theme. Thanks again for suggesting it! 🙂

      Reply

  7721. Wow! This is a powerhouse of a post! 🙂 I can see that it is pride that often keeps us from coming to salvation in Jesus. . .because salvation is about what He has done, not us. I never thought about pride being the best that satan can offer us. Good one, and also one I want to remember when mine flares up because it is so ugly in me. God bless you and these wonderful post that just keep coming!

    Reply

    • Deb, I just keep trusting Him to give me something to write, and He is faithful as always! I know I can’t do a post every day on my own, that’s for sure. Thanks for your always encouraging comments. 🙂 You are such a blessing to me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7722. Praise God that I have one person so far who believes in God and will help me be accountable on the blogaday2011 challenge with wordpress. Keep up the great articles, glorify God, as you do best.

    Reply

    • Thank you for reading and leaving such a nice comment. I will have to come check out your blog, too. It’s early in the postaday2011 challenge, but I know already I will succeed only with God’s help. My goal is to glorify Him always. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7724. I just came from Theresa’s place and felt so happy for God’s perfect timing and perfect message but He’s not done yet — here I’m blessed again with a perfect reminder! Yes I need prayers; I need to pray and be strong for the enemy named worries, fears, doubts, bad memories and pains surround me and ready to attack any time I let my guard down. Got to pray, pray and pray some more to show the enemy how strong God is and how He loves me.
    Thank you Linda for bringing in this post perfectly 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I am always amazed how God uses my struggles and my pain to help encourage others. I often doubt when writing posts like this, but they seem to be the ones that get the most positive comments like yours. Our God is an awesome God! He knew just what I needed to write that you needed to read. 🙂 The wonder of it all brings tears of joy to my eyes. Peace and prayers, Linda

      Reply

    • Theresa, I am so thankful that He is patient with me when I forget. He gently reminds me of what a blessing it is to spend time with Him in prayer. The last two days have been much better as I have returned to my morning routine. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • I truly am happy for you, because I really do struggle with that, too. This will probably sound silly, but I like to pray kneeling in my bedroom, but I get messy and then my room gets all messed up, and it becomes even more challenging as I try to find other places where I can really quiet my mind down…I have a very noisy mind.

        Theresa

  7726. Hi Linda,

    I just came from visiting Theresa http://pronetoponder.wordpress.com/?p=1855 Interesting 🙂

    I confess I don’t always kneel to pray. There are days I’m praying as I’m flying through the door or getting stuff done or just before my head hits the pillow. I know I need to carve out a time for praying so I have ‘popcorn prayers’ during the day but I like the idea of kneeling before Him… I used to do that before life happened. Thanks for reminding me to go back there… If I’m on my knees I can’t do anything else, can I?

    Blessings
    ann

    P.S. The blog I wrote for yesterday was on prayer. I think God wanted me to offer the Sacrifice of Thanksgiving instead. And now He gives me two prayer posts to meditate on! How great is our God!?

    Reply

    • Ann, Until last year, I never kneeled to pray except in church. It has been such a wonderful habit that He has developed in me and I defintely can tell the difference when I don’t spend time with Him. You are right, if we are on our knees we can’t do anything else! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7727. Good post! I have found lately that, although I talk to God throughout the day, and my thoughts are on Him often, I have neglected that specific time of kneeling before Him in prayer. It really does make a difference. I need to get back to my prayer closet. Thanks for posting!

    Reply

    • Karla, I think about Him throughout the day, and on Monday I was even listening to Christian music and blogging about Him and reading other Christian blogs filled with scripture. And yet, without that focused time just to be with Him in preparation for the day, the day got the best of me. I really does make a difference, indeed! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7728. Sometimes those days happen when the routine is blown apart . . .and the time I usually pray evaporates. I almost feel a panic. I didn’t pray . . .oh no! If I can do nothing else, I try to read a verse or two at least. Then He reminds me that He is with us always and we can pray throughout the day too, even though it will be different than that before the day begins time. God bless you and your desire to kneel before Him always.

    Reply

    • Deb, Glad to know I’m not alone in sometimes forgetting to pray, in letting my routine fall apart on certain days. Prayer time is one part of the routine that I really need, especially during the winter when darkness and pain can so easily get the best of me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7729. Hi Linda,
    I was just heading out the door when your post flashed on my phone and I had the urge to read it. Praise God for how He mercifully and patiently teaches us the reality of being faithful. We are like dog’s tails in many ways for we curl back into our old ways so easily but God is amazingly good at teaching us with love and gentleness. Thank you for being so open about your failures and showing us how God ministered to your heart in it. I recently started kneeling and praying and what a joy it is for me too. I always look at the mental picture of Jesus kneeling and praying and that reminds me of how He humbled Himself before His father and so must we, both our knees but more importantly our hearts. Praying that you will continue to inspire us for God’s glory alone!
    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, I love the idea of creating a mental picture of Jesus kneeling! So true that if it was important for Him to humble Himself, how much more important is it for us? Thank you for your prayers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7730. Thank you so much Linda. I am really reached by this, that if one person isn’t free, then none of us are. May we carry the burden for those who have never tasted freedom. God bless you and your dreams like His!

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you, as always, for your encouraging comments. To know that someone is touched by what I write is such a blessing. I’m praying for the day that this message will reach the whole world and we will all be free! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7731. I think the Holy Spirit led you to this one, for today. So perfect and the words are so real. I want love to be more than just something I say or feel. God bless you and His love that lives inside of you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love this song for the challenge that it gives me to truly let love rule each and every day. I was looking through my iPod song list for something to post as an extra today, and when I got to this one I just knew this was the one God wanted me to post. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7732. First time hearing them (and first time hearing of them 😉 )

    Thanks much for sharing, Linda. I’m off to check out some more songs. 🙂

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7733. Hi Linda,

    Being fairly new to North America, I must profess that I know little of Martin Luther King although I have read a little about him and his great speeches and the movement.

    I hail from India, a country that was occupied by just about every nation that went out conquering the world, and have seen the price we paid to gain our freedom. August 15, 1947 was the day we won our freedom from the British but till this day that freedom is questioned because as a nation, we are plagued by bigger crises internally than externally.

    Freedom is a pursuit that mankind has been after from time immemorial ever since the fall of man and the battle is our sinfulness more than anything else. Thank you for reminding us of the freedom we need through the words of Solomon Burke in that song, none of us are free. Only through the love of Christ do we have that victory! Martin Luther King was spot on about it 

    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, It is true that real freedom is found only in Christ. I just love the Solomon Burke song because it reminds me to think of others first and to always fight for the right for every person to find that freedom that God promises. Thank you for sharing about your own country’s struggle with freedom. I think sometimes we in the U.S. forget that this is a struggle of all mankind and that since we have freedom it is our responsibility to the human race to help others enjoy it as well. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7734. First time I heard them and I appreciate the song so much!
    Love rules and it’s so real — when we can sincerely say that, it’s a beautiful life!
    Thank you Linda for sharing!
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I’m glad you liked it. Revive is a band from Australia. I saw them for the first time when they opened at a Third Day concert and I loved them! This song seemed quite appropriate for today. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7735. Wow your appreciation is overloaded! Truly there is so many things worthy of appreciation and here’s one.

    Awesome blog friends!
    People from different places with
    Pleasing thoughts
    Respecting differences
    Exchanging ideas
    Coming together
    Inspiring each other.
    As time passes by
    Touched lives are multiplied.
    It all started with posted words
    Offered to the world
    Now the heart is involved.
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I appreciate you adding your own acrostic poem! It is very good and is in the style of the one I’ve already written for next Thursday. You are an awesome blog friend! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7736. He, and you, did good! 🙂 I haven’t been in the Psalms for awhile and this had so much in it, that seemed like it was just for me. The Psalms are like that, aren’t they? I’ve been reading and praying and writing about Him being our portion and inheritance. This was a wonderful prop for that! God bless you and your Psalm Sundays!

    Reply

    • Deb, As I’m reading through the Bible with my Bible-in-a-year schedule, I find that I often just want to read Psalms instead of what is on the schedule. Know that I get to read one on Sunday helps me stay with the schedule. I’m glad this one blessed you. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7737. This is the best wackiest advice ever. There is no way we can have peace, have a relationship with Him, without forgiveness. It’s a definite gotta do. Linda, I can tell when I need to forgive, when it’s building up . . .it’s like my ugliness level rises. yuck. What a wonderful thing He has done, making it possible for us to forgive and be free! God bless you and your forgiveness of others today!
    p.s. really good post, for not knowing what to write! 😉

    Reply

    • Deb, The need to forgive is one of those lessons that I learned on such a large scale that you would think I would never forget and would always forgive. But we humans seem to be a bit slow. 🙁 So I find myself with anger building up, too, and have to learn the lesson all over again. So glad He is patient! As for your p.s., I may not have known what to write, but the Holy Spirit knew what I needed to write all along. I just needed to listen. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7738. ” 8 I know the Lord is always with me.
    I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.”

    Wonderful assurance. Thanks, Linda.
    I’m navigating choppy waters right now. I am so thankful for His word and His timely reminders.

    Blessings and thanks for sharing. Please say thank you to your son for ‘randomly 😉 ‘ selecting exactly what I needed.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  7739. This is absolutely wonderful! Forgiveness can be a tricky thing, but I have been fortunate to have seen a prime example of it in my lifetime that have helped me forgive even those who maybe don’t “deserve” forgiveness. When I was in college, a friend of mine was killed by a drunk driver who was driving almost twice the speed limit without his lights on at night. The girl’s dad (who happens to be a pastor) forgave the man and visited him several times in prison to share the message of the gospel with him (which I believe he received!) I always thought that if he could forgive that man and even help him, I can forgive anyone. Another thing that makes me eager to forgive is the simple fact that Jesus forgave me when I didn’t deserve it. I have rambled on, but thank you for a great post!

    Ben

    Reply

    • Ben, That is a wonderful story of forgiveness! Thank you for sharing it. For me the real challenge is remembering to forgive the little day-to-day things that people do and not let the bitterness build up over time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7740. Hi Linda! What a great way to share recipes- you’ve given me some good ideas! By the way, my husband calls this dish Eggie Weggies. 🙂 I hadn’t heard of it until he served it for breakfast one day. Yes he cooks!

    Reply

    • Lori, My husband makes these, too. If we have more than cereal or breakfast bars for breakfast, he’s responsible. But I’m the one who does dinner. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7741. My father used to be on a gluten free diet, and my mother made something with rice noodles. Apparently they blow up too. She said they just kept growing. :-O

    Reply

    • Eden, I used to be on a gluten free diet, too, and I remember trying rice noodles. Not only do the blow up, if you cook them too long they fall apart. Plus they don’t taste that good. I’m glad I’m eating egg noodles again! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, That’s funny! I mentioned to my boss yesterday that I was having leftover homemade chicken noodle soup for lunch, and she asked if I catered! 😉 Now you want my soup Fedexed?! It’s a pretty easy recipe. I bet you could whip some up yourself. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • lol

        I could. Some days I would rather eat it than cook it 🙂 When the days are full, I’d rather come home to dinner than come home to cook dinner.

        Chicken soup always hits the spot!

        Blessings
        ann

      • Ann, I actually enjoy the cooking so long as I can put the thought of having to clean up afterwards out of my mind! I usually come home from work, check my email, and then put in my iPod earphones and cook. It makes me feel good to take care of my family in this way. Peace, Linda

  7743. I love this! I have another friend who makes her own chicken soup and says the same thing, that it’s like a meal! Thank you! Just this week, I put chicken in the crock pot early , with Ceasar dressing on it, and it made a lot of chicken to use! Now I’ll remember to try the soup with it and to freeze it too! God bless you and all you cook up with Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve never tried freezing cooked chicken before. I’ll let you know how it turns out when I make something with it next week. 😉 I just couldn’t pass up that buy one get one deal. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7745. Oh I loved this! You did so good, came up with so much, with only those letters! yay Linda! Here’s a not so great one, back for you!

    Amazing
    People
    Praying and
    Reading
    Encouraging in
    Christ
    Interceding
    At
    The
    Eternal throne.

    oops . . .just realized the word was appreciation not appreciate. haha! maybe you’ll let me slide? I’d appreciate that! 😉 God bless you and your grateful heart for Christ! love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I love your poem, even if it was a slightly different word. I’ll do more than let you slide – I’ll say THANKS for this addition to Thankful Thursday! I love that you ended with the Eternal throne. 🙂 I actually started this post using Appreciative, but decided “v” was going to be too hard. Now that I think about it, though, Victory in Christ is something I appreciate! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7746. Hi Linda,
    I appreciate your post and how beautifully you have sewn in your appreciation for God and his kingdom through prose. Like you, I am appreciative of all things that come from our father in heaven and my list is endless. This is a beautiful way to ‘count our blessings by naming them one-by-one’ and I certainly am surprised to see what God has done 🙂
    In Him,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, The hardest part about writing this post was that there are things I am thankful for, that I truly appreciate, but that don’t start with any of the letters in the word “appreciate.” I guess I’ll have to hold onto them for another Thankful Thursday when I use a synonym of Thankful that has different letters! 🙂 It is amazing how just the act of thinking and writing about what I appreciate can make me feel better. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • April, Encouragement from fellow bloggers is definitely something to appreciate! These relationships have been such a blessing to me and I am so glad I met you! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7748. I appreciated this post. I have dealt with Chronic Fatigue for over twenty years. A couple of years ago found out that I am on the borderline of having lupus. Through it all though, I have learned how to pace myself. Enjoy the days that God gives me and I have learned to tap into gifts that allow me to do what I can within the boundaries that are given. Yes, there are days that I don’t feel so hot but I keep counting my blessings. Each day holds many blessings and that outweighs the pain!

    Reply

    • April, Thank you for sharing that. It is always encouraging to know you are not alone. And yes, the blessings do outweigh the pain. The enemy would like us to forget that, but it is true. When I was working on this post I found a verse, Job 6:10, that I planned to include but didn’t for some reason: “At least I can take comfort in this:Despite the pain,I have not denied the words of the Holy One.” He has promised Joy in all circumstances, and that is something worth hanging on to. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7749. “For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” (2 Cor. 12:8-10)

    I pray that the Lord will remove this pain from you. But if not, may He continue to give you the grace to bear it and glorify Him through it 🙂 What a beautiful and touching post, Linda, thanks.

    In Christ,

    Loren

    Reply

    • Loren, What a perfect verse! Thank you for reminding me of it when I needed it most. Thank you also for your prayers. The Lord has been good to me, and I have faith that His grace is indeed sufficient. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7750. Thanks, Linda

    “Joy is not dependent on my physical wellbeing, but is the natural state of a heart captured by Christ. Joy comes from faith that is confident in my position as a child of God.”

    I came across Paulette’s blog – http://pbus1.wordpress.com/ a few days ago. I marvel at God’s grace and His ability to keep us even in the midst of the pain.

    May you continue in His joy.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I don’t know how I would make it through without Him some days. The best thing about the pain is that it increases my dependence on Jesus, and that is a good thing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Rea, I recently watched Alice in Wonderland with Johnny Depp. There is a great line where Alice asks her dad if she is mad or crazy, and he replies, “I’m afraid so. But I’ll tell you a secret. All the best people are.” I think being crazy for Christ is a good thing! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7753. Thank you for such an honest and encouraging post about chronic pain. Would you be comfortable sharing what it is you are suffering with? I will be praying with you regardless, because He knows, and thanking Him for your faith that grows ever deeper even in struggles and times of not understanding. God bless you and bring you the strength to face each day!

    Reply

    • Deb, I appreciate the prayers. 🙂 I tried so hard to come up with something else to write about today, but then I realized that I am always talking about being honest and sharing our stories so that others going through the same struggles can be encouraged. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7754. Linda, it’s a crazy idea, it’ll never work…

    and I join up right now 🙂

    Thank you much for this – and to you and yours I really do pray blessings today.

    Reply

    • Craig, Never say never! It may not change the world in my lifetime, but Love will conquer all eventually. Thank you for the prayers. They are much appreciated! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7755. Definitely workable!
    Thanks for sharing, Linda. Going against the grain can be gritty at times but with Him at the helm, this ship will get there.
    Bless you Linda. May God continue to use you to change lives.
    ann

    Reply

  7756. Love the challenge and am diving into the crazy end of the pool with you. I discovered this earlier, while blogging and meeting people who believed different than me. A friend had shared with me something God told her, that some may be right and some wrong, but for the ones who are right to lord it over others was wrong, so not to fret . . .Jesus would come and set all things right. That impacted me, and helped me not to look at what was different between myself and someone else, but more at how I could encourage them, how I could love them, in Jesus. Thank you so much Linda and God bless your ability to love those around you today!

    Reply

    • Deb, Somehow I knew you’d jump on board this crazy train! 🙂 That is so true that those who are right shouldn’t lord it over others. That was good advice. I’m looking forward to the day Jesus comes and sets all things right again. Until then, just call me crazy. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7758. I read this at work and started crying – what a concept and such a HUGE truth. I’ll take that challenge and stand right along side of you!

    Reply

    • April, That is so cool! Thank you for sharing my post. As for the verse of the week, I try to change it every week, but sometimes it becomes the verse of the week and a half. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7760. Well I liked them so much I kept listening to what was up next afterward! 🙂 I’ve heard you mention them before, but this is the first time I’ve gotten the pleasure of hearing them! Wonderful and so full of Jesus. How can we not feel better and assured of our Savior after listening to them sing? God bless you and the music that He asks you to share with us! love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, That is so cool! I forgot that another video would come up after the one I posted. That is a nice feature of YouTube. It took me a bit to figure out how to post the video, but now that I have it down I think I will always do that for Music Monday. 🙂 Did Aubrey get to listen to some, too? Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Oh yes she did and loved them too! 🙂 She is a music lover and loves to sing. She calls them Jesus songs. She may not get all the words right but has been told that she has perfect pitch. ! And she can hear something just one time on a movie or commercial, and later she’ll be singing it and I’ll be trying to figure out where it came from! ha!

  7761. So blessed by your “extra” and here I haven’t even got to the original one yet. Aubrey listened with me. I love to fill her with messages that she is beautiful and His. It took awhile after coming home to school here, but she is doing good in believing that! 🙂 At school, she had trouble coping and got in trouble a lot and it made her feel that she was bad. Once she even asked me if Jesus still loved her, because she didn’t feel that anyone else did! Thank you Linda for blessing us tonight and for following your Holy Spirit music cloud. 😉

    Reply

    • Deb, I didn’t know who this was for, but I am so glad Aubrey and you were blessed by it! I’m hoping there are many others, too. The first time I heard this song I cried just thinking about how beautiful I am to Him. Actually, the whole CD is great, but this song in particular is special to me. Peace to you and Aubrey, Linda

      Reply

  7762. “I may not can see, but I got someone lookin’ after me” … I think I like this 🙂
    I have the best Help ever!
    Thanks, Linda
    ann

    Reply

  7764. Interesting book!
    I love the ripples that the book is making!
    I oftentimes pass on the books that I have read on the condition that they will pass it on too after reading it. It’s fun and better than barter system.
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, The best part was finding those paperbacks for only $1 each! I wish I could find more to hand out all over the place. And the ripple effect was also very heartwarming to see. So often we do what He asks but don’t see the result and just have to trust the outcome to Him. But every once in a while He lets us see the fruit of our labor. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7765. Thank you, Linda.

    You make me want to read the book! 🙂 Thank you for putting these wonderful notes together. This is very good.

    God bless you and your ministry. May you continue to be obedient to His direction.

    Challenged,
    ann

    Reply

  7766. “When the Lord registers the nations, he will say,
    “They have all become citizens of Jerusalem.” ”

    I feel special. I feel loved. I feel like He has indeed ” stooped down to make me great” (Psalm 18:35) When God saved me, He gave me a brand new identity. I take this verse as mine – that His sacrifice has made me a citizen of heaven.

    Thank you, Linda.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, that is the verse I liked best in this Psalm, too! This morning after church I was reading in Isaiah more about God bringing in the other nations, and I feel special and loved indeed. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7767. Very good summary, Linda. I liked what you said. Have seen you on other blogs often (like Thorns and Myrtles) so thought I should see what yours was like. Will be back. Just picked this topic off your list.

    Can I ask if you’re still an active lawyer? If so, what is your specialty?

    Reply

    • Pete, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I look forward to seeing more of you here, and will have to check out your blog as well. I am still an active member of the Oregon State Bar, but I don’t practice law. I actually work for the bar as the Director of Legal Publications. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Hi Linda,

        Thanks for replying so quickly. I had wondered what a “recovering” lawyer meant. But sounds like an impressive position. Does that mean you live around Salem or Portland?

        I lived in Seattle for 12 years, and got to Portland occasionally. Oddly, was in eastern OR more often – going back and forth to southern Idaho.

        Just so you know, we have a family website, but not a blog per se. We’d be delighted to have you look at it. At the moment, there are two major things on it: (1) the current text of the Bible study I’ve been writing on what Scripture actually means by “love your neighbors.” We expect that’ll be up until we find a publisher; then we’ll probably switch that over so people can buy copies of the actual book (right now you can make copies for your own use free.) Also, there are several extracts from it, and info on our family, which my daughter Yvette did.

        (2) A computer desktop wallpaper section, which Yvette did. It has a little over 100 pictures, each available in four sizes. It’s still growing. She plans to put in a group of Scripture wallpapers, and to steadily add more seasonal wallpapers (and whatever else the Lord impresses her to do). She took almost all of those; I think there are 3 that either I or my son Bill took.

        Feel free to browse and, we hope, enjoy both section

        God continue to bless you there, Pete and family

  7768. Linda . . .I have goosebumps. Today I posted something from Joan of Jerusalem in Israel. she talks about an influx of refugees from Africa. Then your husband picks this Psalm. 🙂
    God bless you as the Holy Spirit moves freely and gleefully in your life!
    love,
    deb

    Reply

    • Deb, In church today our pastor talked about giving the Holy Spirit more “elbow room” in our lives and giving Him more glory for what He is doing in our lives. There seems to be a theme going on I think. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7769. Thank you for the book review. Sounds like an awesome read. A good reminder that non of us are perfect but here on earth we strive toward perfection so that when we are greated by our Heavenly Father, we are then made perfect. He accepts us just the way we are and that is so wonderful to know. He is the potter and we are His clay.
    Have a good week.

    Reply

    • April, I’m glad you liked the book review. You are right, we are the clay. And the softer we are, the easier it is for the Potter to work with us and mould us to be what He desires. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7770. What a wonderful book review and what a wonderful book. I loved how the Holy Spirit moved you and the affect it had. 🙂 🙂 🙂 Lots of smiles for that! God bless you and the ripple affect the Holy Spirit sends out through your blog! love, deb
    p.s. You are really, really good at this!

    Reply

  7771. It’s funny, the chili bean recipe – just below your new banner picture – looks like an implication that it was on the Last Supper Menu – he he – funny. Made me smile. I thought, “Hey Peter, can you pass the chili powder?”

    God Bless.

    Reply

  7772. I love that . . .”lots of chili powder”. haha! You add lots of goodies to yours that will help mine too. Thank you!!! Liked the bean story too! When my oldest daughter was in a high chair yet, she liked lima beans. And she would share them with the cat we had then . .. who ate lima beans too. ! ha!
    God bless you, lovely Linda, and your readiness to share recipes and Jesus!

    Reply

    • Deb, The one problem with writing down my recipes is that I don’t measure spices and herbs! So that’s why the “lots of chili powder.” 😉 My dad used to put almost more chili powder in his individual bowl of chili than I put in the whole recipe. So this spice in particular is one that tastes vary on. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7773. If I remember correctly, my mother used to either not put out the Magi or put them somewhere else for the very same reason :). Blessings!

    Reply

  7774. Thanks, Linda

    Here’s another reason to start the singing again :-)(Five golden riiings! Four calling birds…) lol

    I too like the idea of moving the Magi on their journey. [I read somewhere that they found the family after they had left the manger. Can’t remember where or when so I’ll have to jiggle my memory switch a bit. Reference made to the wise men finding a ‘child’ as opposed to a ‘baby’ may have started this ball a rolling. Can’t remember but I’ll try to find the source.]

    Bless you for sharing with us. Looks like the blog a day challenge is geared to fatten us 🙂 I’m looking forward!

    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I’ve heard that the Magi arrived when Jesus was older also, based in part on the Gospel account of their visit in Matthew 2, where it says, “On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.” Since Jesus was born in a manger, some say if He was in a house then this must have occurred some time later. Also, because Herod then has all boys up to age 2 killed to try to get rid of Jesus this is an indication that he was older than a newborn when the Magi arrived and consulted with Herod. As far as I’m concerned, when exactly they arrived does not change the core of the Gospel, but is interesting to think about. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7775. This is lovely, Linda.
    We do have so much to be thankful for! Now you’re giving me ideas to look around me for reasons to give God thanks. I take so much for granted at times.
    (Perhaps we could add a couple more L’s for Lovely Linda? 😉 )
    Thanks again for the reminders, Linda. He so deserves our thanks.
    Thankful,
    ann

    Reply

  7776. Every time I read about ‘The Fruit Of The Spirit’ I am reminded of how human and lacking I am. At the same time I see endless possibilities for God to make something beautiful of my life.

    Thanks kindly, Linda. Fruit can look nice and firm on the outside, hiding the imperfections within. I want to live a life that bears fruit that He will be pleased with. I will trust Him to bring this to pass.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7777. Thank you, thankful Linda! This was a wonderful idea, and a wonderful poem. The more we purpose to think of those things we’re thankful for, the more things we find to be thankful for and this is something that is okay to become habit forming. So thankful for you, dear friend!

    Reply

  7778. Linda, I am one of those who didn’t know all of this about Epiphany! So, I got to pull up a desk and listen to you teach. Thank you soooo much. You are really good at explaining things and giving us scripture to help. Loved all the comments too. 🙂 I’ve been working on a little poem about not wanting to put Jesus back into the box after Christmas.
    God bless you and your Epiphany day!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad I could share something you didn’t know about! It is hard to put Jesus back in the box, and I don’t think we really should, even if we have to put the ornaments and decorations away. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7779. Oh, Epiphany – the shadow of Christmas. Thank you so much for reminding me. It’s like a fragrance left behind – it’s good. And such rich biblical work. I heart this.

    God Bless and Keep you and all of yours

    Reply

    • Craig, I like that – “a fragrance left behind” – a good description of Epiphany. We usually leave our tree up until today, too, but this year it was too dry so it came down last week. :(. But the Nativities are all still up until tomorrow! Peace and a blessed New Year, Linda

      Reply

  7780. Very interesting 🙂 I love the subject too, and your idea of moving the nativity figures closer each day is genius! If we ever find our figures we will have to do that next year.

    Reply

    • Marie, Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment, and with a smiley face even. 🙂 I had trouble finding two of my Nativity sets this year, one of them the olivewood that’s in my blog header. I was happy when they were finally located! Peace and a blessed New Year to you, Linda

      Reply

  7782. I am glad I stumbled onto your post this afternoon. I loved it! I love the idea of placing the wisemen in a different place than the nativity. I usually keep my nativity up through today, too. But, this year, I am leaving Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus on my mantle as a daily reminder that He is with us now and always. Thank you for your wonderful words!

    Reply

    • April, Thank you for stopping by and for your kind comment! I will have to check out your blog, too. It is so wonderful to connect with other believers here at WordPress. I like your idea of leaving Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus out all year. I actually have a set of 3 crosses (1 myrtlewood, 1 metal, and 1 crystal) that I keep out all year – my own Calvary – to remind me of how much God loves me (and to remind my family, too 🙂 ) Peace and a blessed New Year, Linda

      Reply

  7784. I am travelling the narrow road so I might as well enjoy the journey with great music. Your Music Monday can help me discover more Christian songs so go go go for it!
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, When I first started listening to Christian music, there wasn’t much to choose from that was in the styles of music I like. Now there are so many great Christian bands that are contemporary or rock that it will be fun to share the things I like to listen to. I was thinking I should start adding a YouTube video on Music Monday, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7785. Thank you so much for this Linda. It goes so well with yesterday’s post on the Holy Spirit and He is using it to pull me closer. I don’t think that I realize -and perhaps I never will or can – the extent that the Holy Spirit helps me. Every kindness or loving act, every patient and gentle move I make is because of the Holy Spirit. May the fruit, non-plural, abound! God bless you and the fruit of the Spirit displayed through you each day.

    Reply

  7786. Thanks, Linda

    I like this post mucho!

    “I think that too often even Christians forget to give credit to the Holy Spirit when it is due. ..” Amen.

    Some years ago I read “Good Morning Holy Spirit”. My eyes were open to a whole different world.

    Thanks for the reminder to give Him credit where credit is due.
    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I know I have the tendency to give the Holy Spirit here when I write, but it is much harder on the fly when talking to people who may not be in tune to that kind of thing to give Him the credit He deserves. I’m hoping to have His help working on that this year. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thanks for the encouraging comment! This was definitely one of those posts that He gets the credit for. The idea popped into my head immediately upon reading the prompt and there was no other that came to mind who didn’t get the credit they deserve. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7788. When I read the title, I just knew who was going to get the credit! 🙂 Thank you for doing that! Smiling as the Holy Spirit must have known as this challenge came to you, just what you would be posting about. God bless you and every opportunity you have to give His Spirit credit and glory.

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m not surprised you knew where this one was going just from the title. You are quite good at catching on quickly to such things. 🙂 God bless you and every opportunity you have to give the Holy Spirit credit, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7789. This is a beautiful idea, and, you’ve chosen a great one to start with. Thanks for including verse 3 … it’s exactly what I needed to hear today.

    He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.

    Blessings to you!

    Reply

    • Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I haven’t been to your blog in awhile, but just was there. I think I’ve been missing out by not reading every day. So many blogs, so little time! But no matter how little time we have, if we stay rooted in His Word we will be like a tree planted by the river. He will sustain us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7790. I’m with you Linda. The highway to hell is real. I don’t want people going there.

    Love this: “The world would like us to think that we are missing out on so much by avoiding the broad road, but all that is there is pain and suffering without the peace and grace of God.” That is so good. Thank you.

    God Bless.

    Reply

    • Craig, I know there is also pain and suffering on the narrow road, that it will be difficult, but at least we have God’s peace and grace to sustain us in the difficult times. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, I hadn’t thought of Thankful Thursday, but it’s a good idea. I’ll have to think about whether to add that, too, for 2011. I also like the way He works to have multiple bloggers touching on the same general idea even when we don’t realize we are doing it. Thankful for your wonderful encouragement. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7792. Thank you Linda for this beautiful post and I liked the variety you brought into the blog through Recipe Friday, Psalm Sunday and now Music Mondays…Some of the roads that we take in life are really challenging, some we have never travelled before, some very dangerous, some the familiar ones…but no matter how the road is…if He is ahead of us and we are just following His footsteps..then there is no fear…bcos..He is in control.
    God Bless,

    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, Yes, there is no fear if we stay on the narrow road! That is so true. Fear and worry don’t come from God, but from the enemy. When we trust that He is in control of the journey, fear is far from us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7793. I can tell Music Mondays are going to be powerful pieces. This one has me in tears, just thinking of the way He does indeed give us grace and peace along the narrow way. We couldn’t do this without Him. I am pretty well removed from what most do . . .pretty narrow life space. But my how He has blessed it, with joy and peace, with simple things. God bless you, Linda, and all the ways He speaks through you!
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Some days I wish my life was more simple, but I am where He wants me to be and on the narrow road of faith in Christ alone. Thank you, as always, for your encouragement! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ben, I actually got the idea from your Sunday hymn posting, which I love reading, too! It’s funny to see someone who could read the Psalms anytime he likes, and has undoubtedly read them all many times, show such excitement over the idea of reading them posted here. I really intended this blog feature for those who aren’t familiar with the Psalms, but hopefully the excitement of readers like you will rub off on them. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7796. ‘Psalm Sunday’ … I like this 🙂

    Gracias, Linda. I think the Psalms hold most of my favourites .

    I like the blessings that follow the righteous but tremendous responsibility comes with being one of those. The good thing is, we don’t have to do it on our own… we have the Holy Spirit to guide us.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks. I liked the idea, too, because I often want to share Psalms. I am hoping having it as a regular feature will be a blessing to others, especially those who are not familiar with Psalms. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7797. Happy New Year, Ladies!
    (Catching up on the posts I missed over the last couple of days)

    It’s easier with children…they don’t know as much as we do so they will take the story and run with it. We stop and question at times when we ought to just get up and go. I wish I could have childlike faith all the time…

    I’m thankful that God sees potential in me (even when I don’t see it in myself) Thanks for sharing, Linda. I intend to do my part in the ‘Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done’ prayers.

    Debbie, I like the story of faith growing inside your daughter. 🙂

    Blessings to all,
    ann

    Reply

  7798. I love the Psalms and can’t read them enough! 🙂 Always something there for me or to encourage someone I know. God bless you and Psalm Sundays! 🙂

    Reply

  7799. I really love this Linda, and your prayer at the end. How comforting to know that we can grow, like that mustard seed. 🙂 When the girls were little, we were given a small amount of mustard seed at church, to illustrate his message. Before I knew it, one daughter had swallowed hers. We headed to the drinking fountain asap. She is going to have faith growing inside of her for sure! 😉
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Kids do the funniest things! 🙂 I’m sure you have done what you can to plant mustard seeds of faith in your girls. I am really looking forward to a year of growth in 2011. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7801. I look forward to reading your daily posts! I may take up the challenge myself. It’s encouraging to see how your blog is reaching people, blessing them and encouraging them in following Christ! Keep it up!

    Reply

    • Thank you for such a nice comment! I think I am blessed even more than those who read my posts, especially by the friendships I have made. Serving Christ is always its own best reward. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7802. I haven’t heard of this either! 🙂 I just keep getting smarter and smarter here! 🙂 Thank you for sharing, Linda! I love how your family talks about what they want to eat and what to fix. That’s really nice!

    Reply

    • Deb, You have me laughing out loud! If you only knew. Here’s how the conversation usually goes. I ask, “What do you guys want for dinner?” And they reply (sometimes in unison), “Food.” Thankfully they will eat pretty much anything I make and tell me how good it tastes. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7803. Hi Linda,

    Your blog has been a source of great encouragement to me in the few months I’ve been here. I am thankful for the way you share what God has laid on your heart.

    Walking with Jesus is indeed an everyday affair. I talk about Him everyday. Would be nice if I could write about him everyday but there’s way more for me to feed off when you and the others post that often 🙂 . I appreciate being able to check in and find that God has given a word to share with the rest of us. Go for it!!!

    God bless you,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thank you for your encouragement and prayers. They mean a lot to me. God willing, I will be able to post every day and He will be glorified. I know it is only by His Holy Spirit that I can accomplish this. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7804. Dearest Teacher,
    Thank you for sharing the happy song — you have just made me move to the beat! Thank you for your wisdom — sometimes it’s quite a challenge for me to totally digest it but I am trying to learn! Thank you for the open communication — I do not fear of failing when I ask you a question!

    Happy New Year and looking forward to God’s lesson plans!

    Got to learn,
    rea

    Reply

    • My Dear Friend Rea, I am honored to be able to share what God has shared with me with someone so eager to know Him more! But always remember that the real Teacher is the Holy Spirit. He will help you digest and understand. 🙂 I’m glad you like the song. It is one that always makes me move when we sing it in church. Thankfully Lutherans always stand when we sing, so I can do a little dance in place! 😉 Peace and Happy New Year, Linda

      Reply

  7805. Linda, I love your desire to be a trustworthy teacher, to post something that helps us grow in Him each day, and be accountable for it all. You always help me, and when I have questions, I love coming to you and getting your view because it is so based in His word. Thank you for helping each of us to consider what our blogs should look like according to Him in 2011 also. I wondered about not posting as often, if it was too much sometimes, knowing as a writer that some days words and ideas and prayers come together and other days it doesn’t come across as well. I’ll leave it up to Him, what He wants me to keep doing and how it’s suppose to look. I can’t do it without Him anyway. God bless you and all you do for His glory! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you again for such an encouraging comment. I can’t do this without Him, either. 🙂 I thought about you and Ben, who already post every single day, when I read the WordPress Daily Post article. I am always blessed by your poems. Some may speak to me more than others, but each one is meant for someone. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7806. The thing is, as I see it Linda, that if all one has hope in, is this world, one will continue to see it as good as one can, find every scrap of beauty and call it God, because if this is what the hope is based on, it better darned well be perfect even when it’s obviously not. Amen for your last sentence Linda, Amen.

    Reply

    • Craig, I am so thankful that we have more to hope in and hope for than this world has to offer! I pray for those who can’t see the wonder of God and their own need for Him. Here’s to doing our part towards making the world a more wonderful place. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7807. Thanks Linda

    I’m writing on white-washed sepulchers and I believe this is confirmation. It’s amazing how we’re able to cover up from even those closest to us but God sees right into the heart. There’s no point in pointing fingers or passing the blame. Yes, we need to adopt David’s attitude and throw ourselves at His feet and beg for mercy and forgiveness.
    Can you imagine what would happen if we served a ‘three-strikes’ God?
    Thanks for sharing Linda. You always leave me with much to digest.
    “Search me, O God, and know my heart…” Psalm 139:23
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I like your added thought that “we’re able to cover up from even those closest to us but God sees right into the heart.” That is so true that we are able to hide our true thoughts from those we know, but we can’t hide anything from God. But still He is merciful! Amazing indeed! Thankful with you that our God does not say three strikes and you’re out. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7808. Here is the post I expected and the wisdom I needed to hear to help me grow as Christian — thanks Linda! Got to focus on cleansing myself through God instead of pointing out how dirty, ugly and bad others are.
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, This was actually something I needed to be reminded of, too. It’s so easy to point fingers, but that’s not what God wants us to do. I’m glad you asked the question that got me thinking in the direction to write this. 🙂 I am so glad it helped. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7809. So glad you did a post on this. 🙂 I had read you and Rea’s comment conversation and found it very interesting! Your reasoning was so great, how recognizing sin doesn’t create the sin. That’s kind of crazy thinking and we have to study him in college? Thanking God for God and for you, and for the sound mind He has given you. You help us so much, Linda, with the wisdom and knowledge gifts you are blessed with! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I had to read Karl Marx in college, too! But it was good to learn if only to help develop the analytical skills God has given me. Thank you for your encouraging comment. 🙂 You have been instrumental in helping me not get discouraged. I am thanking God for your gift of encouragement. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7810. The Christian resolution to find the world ugly and bad has made the world ugly and bad. — Friedrich Nietzsche

    I came upon that quote and I would like to hear your wisdom about the thought and the person maybe. It made me think actually — “Are the Christians the only ones who see the ‘ugly and bad’ side of the world?”

    “Is Santa Claus a Christian because he knows the bad ones from the good ones?”
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, You’ve brought up memories of reading Nietzsche in college. I never like his writing. Something else he wrote is that God did not create man, man created God. He was definitely an atheist. I disagree with the quote you have found. There is no Christian resolution to find the world ugly and bad, but rather to find God holy, good, and merciful. As Christians, we do recognize the sinful nature of mankind, but that is not what makes mankind sinful – or “ugly and bad.” Consider this, if I see the grass as green, that is not what makes it green, even if someone else sees it as blue.

      I also don’t think Christians are the only ones who see the evil in the world, but we are often the only ones who can see the evil in our own hearts. Non-believers can easily point to others and see their evil and blame the ugly and bad in the world on them. This is essentially what Nietzsche has done here. He has seen external evil and blamed it on Christians, but never sees the evil in his own heart. We have no control to change others, but for ourselves we can invite the Holy Spirit to help us overcome the ugly and bad in our own hearts. That is the Christian resolution – to rely on God to help us overcome our own evil.

      As for Santa Claus, he is based on a bishop – St. Nicholas – who was a Christian who gave to poor children in the name of Christ. As for the present-day Santa Claus, the fact that he can see who is naughty and who is nice is not the measure of whether he is a Christian. There is a verse (which I have been unable to find in my Biblegateway.com search, but I’ll keep looking) that says man judges on the external but only God sees what is in the hearts of men. Santa Claus is just a man who judges based on external appearances. Only God knows how we have grappled with our own sinful desires and turned to Him for redemption.

      Okay, that was a really long comment, but I hope this answers your questions. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Thank you so much Linda — this helps me understand Christianity further. It is such a blessing that we can see evil in our hearts and we have a God who can help us overcome it; that we have a God who sees our hearts!

        How about Neale Donald Walsch’ Conversations With God — what can you say about his thoughts about God?
        🙂

      • Rea, I am glad I could be of help. You may have noticed that your question inspired my blog post today. 🙂 I’m not familiar with Walsch. I’ll have to check it out and get back to you. Peace, Linda

  7811. I like where you say you believe God controls what songs come to play next on your iPod. I too have experienced that, in where I also have my iPod on shuffle and a certain song will come on at the right time and totally lift me up. I’ve also heard from Christian radio stations like K-Love and Air1, how people have wrote them saying that a song came on at the right time that really helped them, and how for some it literally helped save their lives because they were contemplating suicide beforehand. I love how God can use music to really impact people’s lives.

    Reply

    • Adam, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I love my Christian music and how God uses it in my life and the lives of others. There is a song by Johnny Cash called “My God Is Real.” When you realize and truly believe He is real, then He can use all sorts of things to guide you. If you don’t, then you are going to miss all the messages He tries to share. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7812. “I often complain that I wish God would let me in on His plan.” …. I know the feeling, Linda.

    The good thing is, nothing surprises Him and I can’t hide my true feelings from Him either! It’s challenging at times to trust Him to lead me one step at a time but I’m trying to take it in stride.

    Learning patience,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I’m learning patience, too. Seems like a neverending lesson! You are so right that nothing surprises Him, and what a comfort that is. May we both complain less and trust more in the year to come. Peace and Blessed New Year, Linda

      Reply

  7813. I used to shake, squeeze and rattle the presents too. Never gave me any useful information 🙁

    Your post today reminds me anew to keep my eyes on the present (no pun intended), and wait for God to reveal things in his timing. I will stop trying to rattle the box sent by God. I’ll just let him reveal it. Thank you very much Linda. Awesome. God Bless you and yours.

    Reply

    • Craig, At least you didn’t open them all! I’ll never forget the disappointment of that Christmas. But I’m never disappointed by the gifts of God! They are always a wonderful surprise. Here’s to a new year full of surprises. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7814. This gave me goosebumps Linda! He really uses you in a special way and this message felt like it was so for me!!! So thankful for you and the surprises He has in store for us all! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are so kind with your encouraging comments. 🙂 You were one of the wonderful surprises I received from God this year! I had no idea by blogging I would make such good new friends. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7815. That is a great thought! Sometimes I find myself wanting to now how He is going to do certain things in my life. I like this analogue and have a feeling that it will stick in my mind. 🙂

    Reply

    • Ben, I love when a message in church speaks to me as this one did. Now I know why I opened all those presents so many years ago – it was part of God’s wonderful surprise for me today! I’m glad you liked this one. Analogies that stick are the best kind. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7817. Thank you, Linda. I must try, for Aubrey and I. I like to grill chicken and grilled steak on Christmas for my oldest, but a baked chicken sounds a little warmer this winter! 😉 God bless you!

    Reply

  7818. I’m reading this after Christmas, but it is just as beautiful to me now as it would’ve been before. 🙂 I love that part about why it’s not just about giving. I love how God has given you that analytic mind that works for His glory. It’s about giving . . .God giving us His son, Jesus, and us giving our hearts to Him! ha! Thank you for presenting this so wonderfully, that all might know God does not exclude.
    love in Jesus,
    deb

    Reply

  7819. Linda I love this post so much!
    It makes me feel so excited about God’s surprises for me
    — I know it’s all about good things no matter how it is wrapped!
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I’m sure He does have some wonderful surprises in store for you! Anyone who has been as excited about the miracle of Christmas as you have been is sure to be blessed by God more than you can imagine. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7821. What a wonderful thought! I have been thinking a lot about the Lord’s mercy lately and it seems to come up in just about every passage I’ve been reading lately. Merry Christmas to you and yours!

    Reply

  7822. Linda,
    We have our own christmas eve service at a dear friend’s home tonight and we will have a time of singing carols and I certainly look forward to it because we get to praise God for who He is, what He did and does for us and the life abundant He has blessed us with. Thank you for the beautiful poem and post and I pray all God’s blessings on you as you enjoy the evening celebration of the King!
    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

  7823. Thank you Linda!
    This is a really nice one 🙂
    I too am getting excited. Carol service starts in a couple hours. If ‘Silent Night’ is on the program, I promise I will cry!
    God bless you and a Merry Christmas to you!
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I hardly ever leave church anymore without shedding at least one tear! And Silent Night is a sure thing for me, too. We usually close the service with it, but with all the changes this year I’m not certain. But I have hope that some things never change! Peace and Merry Christmas to you, too! Linda

      Reply

      • We had glows-ticks this year. The lights were turned off while we sang Silent Night. I felt like I was right there on the night He came. The manger was on the stage and Mary and Joseph were there with the shepherds, wise men and angels. I felt like I had somehow been taken back to that wonderful night and was sitting there hearing the Heavenly host sing of His appearing…
        Hard to put it in words but I hope you get the picture.
        Still in awe of Him,
        ann

      • Ann, That sounds like a wonderful service! We don’t have room for a live nativity, and share our sanctuary space with another church that has a service right after ours, but it was wonderful, too! Peace, Linda

    • T.J., Thank you for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. I am blessed that God has given me the gift of writing; the least I can do is use that gift to glorify Him! Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  7826. Merry Christmas to you Linda and your family!
    Thank you for sharing the Magnificent God all year through!
    We’re invited to His kingdom — let’s come and celebrate!
    🙂

    Reply

  7827. Linda,
    Couldn’t help sharing your post on Facebook with my friends who need to hear the truth that Christianity is not an exclusive club of ‘chosen’ people but is about a God who loves the unloved and wants everyone to share eternity in His presence. Thank you for this beautiful post!
    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

  7828. Linda,
    I have not come from a culture where we write Christmas cards but am now in the land where everyone writes Christmas cards to everyone, regardless of what they believe. However, your letter and the beautiful words below struck me as sincere and beautiful beacuse your wish was perfect in that you wished us to have Immanuel. What more can we ask for?
    Thank you and wish you a very special Christ-filled Christmas season and a wonderful new year ahead.
    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, I love to receive Christmas cards, and so that is why I send them. But I am always careful to buy cards that express the love of Christ, not generic “Seasons Greetings” cards. I agree, what more can we ask for during this season and throughout the year than Immanuel! If He is with me, I can’t go wrong. May He bless you and your family in 2011 and beyond. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  7829. I’m with Deb. Too many chores to do for the season. Deep breath. And a very Merry “i get letters from you every day” Christmas to you and yours.

    Reply

    • Craig, my Christmas chores are almost done. I just have some presents to wrap, cookies and pie to make, and making Christmas dinner (we’re having honey ham this year). The important thing is to not let all of the “chores” become a burden that distracts us from the gift of the Christ child. Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  7830. Thank you, Linda
    That’s very beautiful of you 🙂 I was dreading the thought of writing my ‘year in review’ letter but you’ve given me hope.
    A very, Merry Christmas to you and your family. May 2011 be the year you’ve been waiting for!
    Blessings always,
    ann

    Reply

  7831. That was a beautiful closing to your letter. Just perfect. You know, for several years now I’ve thought maybe I just won’t send out cards. I try to look for things to cut out, to simplify, to make it less stressful. But so far, I always end up doing it. ha! I don’t do a wonderful letter like you do . . .but I love to get them! I’ve wanted to make my own cards, but haven’t done that yet. Some years I’ve included an original Christmas poem, whatever He gave me for that year. Thank you for this special card and for inspiring me in what I can do in the years to come.
    love and blessed Christmas!
    deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I think about not doing cards every year, but I always end up doing them. I have the school pictures that will go to waste if I don’t put them in Christmas cards! I think this is the closest I’ve gotten to Christmas to actually send them, though. I think one of your original Christmas poems would be a wonderful addition to a card. You write such wonderful poems! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7832. He is so good to me, for making me wait.
    I got to pause and look for things to appreciate.
    The moment I choose not to, it isn’t good.
    I start to hate myself and God won’t approve that, right?
    🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, Thank you for the wonderful comment/poem! It’s good to remember that the best things in life are worth waiting for. If you take the turkey out of the oven before it’s done, it’s really not even edible. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  7833. Linda,

    You could very well strike out the word ‘Impatient’ and put ‘Ann’. “Restore the sparkle to my eyes or I’ll die”? … I haven’t exactly said that but I’ve come pretty close!

    How long? Why me? Why not? How could you? But you promised … yeh, now I see how annoying I could sound… So thankful that God does not hold my sins against me.

    Thank you Linda, for baring your thoughts and helping us to remember Who we belong to. His timing is perfection. We know that but we still want the deliverance now.

    Deb, thanks for your comments. I’m getting the feeling you were listening to my prayers…. Seems sometimes God deliberately takes us away from what’s familiar and comfortable to teach us a thing or two about trusting Him.

    Waiting on God,
    ann

    Reply

  7834. Linda, this could be me as well. So much I love about this. How you went to the Psalms for help. How you let that work in you. How He reassures us with His own long and painful journey, that He still cares, He’s still there, and He’s got us covered.
    I would take the girls on vacation to my mom’s every year, by myself. It was painful to me. Life was painful. This one year, He really broke into this time. I was driving back home, sleep deprived, had to use the bathroom, and He was using all of it to speak to me. I asked Him if there were any short cuts to what I was going through in life. And like me being extremely uncomfortable and just not seeing a good place to stop, I also came into the city where every light was red and the speed limits were down to 35. He has such a sense of humor. Okaaaay. So I gathered it was going to be slow going and not very comfortable!! And it has been! But, He’s been with me through it all.
    Sorry, this was a little long and maybe just too weird. ha! Like me! Thank you Linda, for your faithfulness to share and be open about Jesus in your life.

    Reply

    • Deb, Thank you! It’s not too long, or too weird, but just what I needed. When we get home from long trips and walk in the house, we all say together, “Good old homie, good old homie, good old homie.” This journey is sometimes slow going and uncomfortable, but one day we will arrive at home and Jesus will say with us, “Good old home!” Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Rea, I don’t want to be sad, you see, either! One day I will get to meet you in person there, and that will be very nice. 🙂 Glad you like the new theme. I wanted something that would allow me to have a picture without my blog title over the top of it. I think I’ll keep this theme for awhile. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Rea, Unfortunately, no, because he had a $1200 cap and it was just a one day thing. But he exceeded his donation goal for all the donation options on that day! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7838. Thank you, Linda.

    We’re all from different stations in life, “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God-” … what a marvelous opportunity.

    Doesn’t matter what we’ve done or what we’ve been taught all our lives. If we believe, we have the opportunity to live eternally. Doesn’t get any better than that!

    Happily His,
    ann

    Reply

  7839. thank you for drawing us together and to Him this Christmas. A friend told me once about Jesus telling her not to worry about all of that division stuff too . . .that He will come and set all things right. That really spoke to me, and helps me to not focus or get distracted by that when I am listening or reading someone who has a different view on something than I do. Helps me to keep the most important thing – Jesus- the most important thing! God bless you, Linda, and your love of Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, It seems to me that it is our job to point to Christ, and His job to change hearts. Just trying to do my part. 🙂 I like what you said, too: “Helps me to keep the most important thing – Jesus- the most important thing!” We all need to keep Him the most important thing in our lives. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7841. Lovely posting especially the end part with your prayer that we all come together with the word of God..The body of believers must come together so we can reach this world and tell others about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

    Reply

  7842. I love your recipes! yay! Keeping this one in mind. Just won’t ask first, but do it. ha! Otherwise I can never try anything new or different, and there’s nothing in this he doesn’t already eat. 🙂 God bless you and your cooking! love, deb

    Reply

  7843. I’d love to vote for Deb. I read the story – absolutely wonderful!

    (Can’t find where to vote, though 🙁 )

    Thanks for pointing me in the right direction…,
    ann

    Reply

  7844. I think it’s wonderful that you actually remembered to back up everything (most people don’t), and I think it’s great that you used this as an opportunity to help your 15-year-old. Merry Christmas!

    Reply

    • Todd, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I actually have to give my husband the credit for having everything backed up – it was his idea and he’s the one who did all the backing-up! Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, Thanks for heading over to Jack’s site for Buck-a-Hit Day! And you left such a nice comment, too. I voted for your comment today and you are currently in the lead to get to pick which charity gets $250 of the money! Way to go! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7847. Hi Linda,

    I have thoroughly enjoyed this series.

    Funny how sometimes we think we’re ready but God keeps us on hold while He sorts out all that needs to be sorted out. “In the long run, this disagreement between Paul and Barnabas was likely God’s will for them so that they might cover more territory and bring more people to Christ than they could if they continued to travel together.”

    Thanks again for sharing your sessions with us.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, The challenge for me is recognizing when it is God keeping me on hold or my own fear or selfishness holding me back. I am thankful that I am still a work in progress. Glad you have enjoyed the blog posts as much as I enjoyed the class. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7848. Investing in others . . .that says so much. It takes time and commitment, but it means so much to Him. Praying that I can do that, like Barnabas!
    Thank you for taking us along with you on this study! deb

    Reply

  7850. Thank you Linda for making me remember all the goodness that my hubby did for me and taking my accountability when little monsters roam our home — the tree take it from the fruits, yay!
    🙂

    Reply

  7851. Thanks Linda

    We sometimes take things (and others) for granted without even realizing.

    Thanks for the reminder that nothing in my life is by accident or coincidence and that God in His infinite wisdom has already made provision.

    Bless you for sharing. We’re all on this journey together. We trust Him to take us through.

    Grateful,
    ann

    Reply

  7852. Now that’s a husband!

    God’s one-two blessing punches are sometimes the best. The songs were like that. The day without the laptop, as stressful as it must have been, also sounds like it too.

    God bless Linda

    Reply

    • Craig, Yeah, I’ve kept him around for the past 24 years and I suppose there’s a reason. 😉 I know that when I complain about him the problem is really me and my attitude because he is a really great guy. As for the day without the laptop, I think the most stressful part was not knowing if I would be able to get my data back or if I would have to buy a whole new computer! I was quite surprised by my own reaction, though, that I didn’t fly off the handle with my son, which I totally would have done just a few years ago! God has defintely done some work in my heart over the years. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7853. Linda –
    I love it when God shakes up our days so that He can remind us of things that need attention in our lives. Thanks for sharing this great story of your day!
    Godspeed,
    Elizabeth

    Reply

  7854. I love all that you learned without your laptop and from that experience. To me it seems He floods you. I loved the part about your husband and what he did to help you. Check. Good reminder for me to stay thankful for what he does do and not looking at what he doesn’t. 🙂 Thank you! About our children and what are we conveying. Check again. Mine is like a mirror. If I am stressed and sarcastic . . .well, so is she. If I am negative, so is she. My monster gets displayed twice! yikes!
    One thing that I tell a friend with teen boys is that sometimes we expect our kids to be where we are at in our walks. . .and they can’t be yet. But your son, he’s getting there because he has a mom and dad that love him and the Lord. We’ll just all pray with each other as we do our best to lead them on in Him! Love your post today!!!! 🙂 Love those life lessons!!!

    Reply

    • Deb, What a great reminder = “sometimes we expect our kids to be where we are at in our walks. . .and they can’t be yet.” That is so true and something I needed to hear. I agree about the mirror thing – sometimes that’s good and sometimes it’s not! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7855. Thank you for your heart. For reminding me that a husband who knows you is a great gift from God. For helping me to see I’m not the only one struggling with “have I led my children toward the light of God” and for making me smile when I remember the times a song that has come on is the exact right song at the exact right time. Coincidence? I KNOW it’s not. It’s a hug from a Father who loves me in my every day.

    Reply

    • Robyn, Thank you for the wonderful, encouraging comment! I find it interesting that the posts that seem to help others the most are the ones in which I share my own struggles and concerns. As Christians, we are not alone; we have each other and the Holy Spirit to help us through the challenges of this broken world. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7857. Indeed the gift of Him is the greatest gift!
    I have heard about it, know about it but not until I appreciate it does it makes the biggest difference. Thanks Linda for the gift of Him all year through!
    🙂

    Reply

  7859. Hi Linda,

    I came across your site today and saw that you like Christian music. I am currently working with Christian Pop/Rock artist, John DeGrazio, who has just released his third album, Stronghold, and I would love to send you a copy to check out for your site.

    John is an accomplished singer/composer/producer and a two-time ASCAP Award winner. He has a number one hit song to his credit, has worked with many major label artists, played in the Dove Award winning group Burlap to Cashmere, and toured with Jars of Clay, DC Talk, and Jaci Velasquez.

    For more info on John DeGrazio, check out the following sites:
    http://www.JohnDeGrazio.com
    http://www.facebook.com/JohnDeGrazioMusic
    http://www.shoutlife.com/johndegrazio
    http://www.myspace.com/johndegrazio

    Please email me back and I’ll send you a copy!

    Sincerely,
    Tom

    Reply

  7860. Thanks, Linda. God bless you for sharing.

    All the songs are popping up this morning. “Be magnified O Lord, for You are highly exalted. And there is nothing You can’t do. O Lord, my eyes are on You…”

    This year there’s something different about Christmas. I hear more and more people talking about the aspects of family and relationships and the birth of the Christ-child (I’ll keep pushing that agenda!! 😉 )

    The thought that the King became ‘nothing’ for me is quite overwhelming. Happy to know I’m not the only one moved to tears.

    Redeemed,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I seem to be finding myself with tears of joy a lot this Christmas season! Usually it is the music that leads me there. I love your sign-off this time. “Redeemed” – isn’t it so wonderful to know that we are? Peace and joy, Linda

      Reply

  7861. Well, I’m just a big cry baby, but this post made me cry. Thinking of His humility, of His coming . . .knowing all He would go through. Tears.
    And I was crying in the car TWICE today, because of a song. It played on our way to go clean and then on our way home. No fair. ha! It’s by Matthew West, maybe titled Last Christmas . . .not sure. But it’s about a little boy that lived here in the town I do, named Dax Louke. (sp?) He had a rare form of cancer and didn’t have long to live. He wasn’t even 2 years old. His mom and dad knew he loved Christmas, so put up their lights and decorations in September. Soon their neighbors did and then it spread to the whole town. He didn’t make it til Christmas, but got to celebrate Jesus one more time before going to be with Him forever. Okay . . .now I’m crying again.

    Reply

    • Deb, You’re in good company! I cried both times I listened to “How Many Kings” this morning. But they are tears of joy and gratitude, so I don’t mind. Having experienced tears of despair many times in my life, I can definitely tell the difference. Peace and joy, Linda

      Reply

  7862. Thank you, Linda.

    It can feel like quite a drag at times… I’m thankful for the work of the Holy Spirit and the constant reminders that God is indeed with us.

    Thanks for being a willing vessel. Your honesty in sharing helps the rest of us recognize that we’re all on the same journey and we’re not alone in feeling ‘inadequate’ at times.

    Powerful lyrics. Powerful, true and so reflective of our daily walk. Can’t honestly say each day ends the way I intended it but I can honestly say He’s always there to wash me again and again and again… I marvel at His love for me.

    Yes, we’re not yet perfect but with His guidance and the prayers and support of those around us, we will yet hear “well done, My good and faithful servant …”. The Christian journey is a journey. Ongoing. Progressing. Not static. Until He returns or bids us to His side, we will ‘fall down and get up’ over and over again. Thankful to know He doesn’t hold it against us.

    Thanks again for sharing. Let’s keep praying for each other.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I love this: “Until He returns or bids us to His side, we will ‘fall down and get up’ over and over again. Thankful to know He doesn’t hold it against us.” I agree it is important that we keep praying for and encouraging each other as we grow to be more and more like Him each day. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7863. Nice blog. I too experience those days and wonder why should I try to better myself if I’m nothing seems to be working. But then I remember that God has greater things in mind for all of us. I just started up a blog on this website and I basically mentioned that I can’t be perfect, but I’m going to do my best to stick the plan that God has in store for me because we are more than conquerers in Christ!

    Reply

    • Adam, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Yes, we are more than conquerers in Christ! What a wonderful truth to hang onto. I look forward to checking out your new blog. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7864. Oh how I love how He orchestrates our lives! And works within us, even when we don’t think He is. That song is so powerful, Linda. I often remember that line too . . .when I start to feeling something that’s not the best, that’s not from Him, when I get a little down. It’s what He says about me and about Himself that is real, not these temporary feelings and emotions I go through. Thank you sooo much for giving us all hope! love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, He is pretty awesome, isn’t He? I have a good, wise friend who always said you can’t go by what you feel, but by what you know. God’s truth I know, and I’m going to hang onto that. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7865. And my blog friends made me cry one after the other today! You have blessed me so much and gave me hope in my walk with Jesus. Sometimes I feel so unworthy of His love because I hate the sin others have committed towards me and yet I am sinning too because of that hate. I want to overcome all of this so I’ll just persevere with my faith and welcome the help from my godly friends.
    Thanks Linda so much for this! 🙂

    Reply

  7867. Hi, Linda,

    I haven’t visited your blog for awhile, so I’ve been enjoying browsing through recent posts–so many inspiring thoughts. With so much distracting us during this season, we need as many reminders as we can about the only gift that matters!

    Thanks,
    Galen

    Reply

  7868. Gracias Linda.

    I heard something today that inspired me to write about giving gifts. Now I can read instead of write 🙂

    The Gift is all that matters yet so many toss Him aside in search of material things. We often give to those who can give back to us… thanks for pointing out that God’s precious gift is ours for the asking…

    What Deb said!

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I’ve actually done a little bit of random giving to those who could not give back this Christmas season, and it felt great, especially since I was able to include a reminder that Jesus loves them and that is the greatest gift in both instances. As for you getting out of writing about giving gifts, I don’t think you’re off the hook that easy. The subject of gifts can never be written about too much! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7869. I love the joy you are spreading about Jesus and knowing Him! Any gift I can get for anyone pales next to that . . .as it should! Kind of lets us off the hook, doesn’t it? God already gave everyone the perfect Christmas gift. We can join together celebrating that Gift of Love and not try to out do Him.
    love and God blessings!
    deb

    Reply

    • Deb, That is so true, we don’t have to try to out do God in terms of gift giving because every good and perfect gift comes from our Heavenly Father! See James 1:17. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7870. Linda

    The insight into the teaching style of Our Lord is precious. Thank you.

    And I love me some good Greek – the thing I remember most about participles is to just to add an “ing” – going, teaching, baptizing. Awesome. Love this!

    Merry Christmas

    Reply

    • Craig, I sometimes wish I had learned Greek. But as an alternative I rely on my Hebrew / Greek Study Bible and can look up words that are noted in the text. I’ve learned some interesting things that way. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7871. Linda,
    It’s been a while since I’ve been to your blog–or for that matter, blogged on my own. What a great post for me to come back to. Thanks for the reminder that we are called to enter into relationships, just as God gave his son so that we might have a relationship with Him.
    Blessings to you!
    Godspeed,
    Elizabeth

    Reply

    • Elizabeth, It’s good to hear from you again! I’ve wondered what you were up to. This has been a great class for me, very challenging, but I’m looking forward to putting what I’ve learned into practice. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7872. Linda, just thinking of you after reading this and thought you might be blessed to check out Poems to Ponder, Bible Based Poetry. JD has a beautiful one up today! 🙂

    Reply

  7873. Thanks Linda,

    I feel like I’ve been sitting in the class 🙂 Grateful you took the time to share so much with us.

    There’s a lot of practical applications. This excerpt says way too much… “the church today does not need new and better programs, “but better men and women who know their Redeemer from personal experience” and want nothing more than to help others experience Him as well. ” His truth will not be silenced.

    When I line that up against your question I feel woefully inadequate. Don’t know how well I score in that area at all.

    Thanks for the poke in the ribs…. there’s work to be done.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, There’s work I need still to do, also. I still have much to learn. But like the disciples, I have a desire to follow, and though I may fail at times, I’m willing to learn. I see that same quality in you! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7874. Thank you so much for calling us along with yourself, to do nothing less than what He asked. I must admit that I feel a little intimidated at the thought of making disciples. Not adequate. But He knows so I will go and do what He lays before me! God bless your passion. It’s contagious! love, deb

    Reply

  7875. Hello Linda
    I have read some of your blogs and I think you provide very insightful opinions about religion.
    I am a senior highschool student, and
    have recently been struggling a lot about career choice. I really do not know how to determine what to do when I grow older. I have been considering entering into the field of law and politics, but I understand that it requires a large amount of writing and excellent writing skills.
    I myself am not an elaborate writer, as I often struggle to put ideas into words. After reading your blog and coming across this page, I wanted to ask you if whether you believe God has given you a talent in writing, or whether we have to find ways to develop these skills on our own?
    I have grown up believing that our talents ultimately determine our career and what we will succeed most at. However, people tell me that it all comes down to interest.
    Please shed some light on my situation. This will help me to better understand how to choose a career path.
    Thanks, Tiffany

    Reply

    • Tiffany, I do give God the credit for my writing ability. I believe all our good gifts and talents are from God. That being said, there is a lot more to the practice of law than being able to write easily. It does help on exams in law school to be able to write, because they are almost always essay exams, but the big thing on law school exams is to be able to spot the issues that you have learned about in an organized fashion. After law school, there are many areas of the law where writing is not the biggest focus. More important is caring about your clients and wanting what is best for them.

      The best career advice I can give you is to figure out what you are passionate about and the research how you can turn that into a career. Pray and ask God what He has in store for you. If you have a passion for something, to help others in some way, God will give you the abilities you need to succeed if you trust in Him.

      I hope this helps. I will keep you in my prayers that God guide you in the right direction. Never forget that He loves you and He always will. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7876. Thanks kindly, Linda.

    A wonderful Christmas to you and yours as well! Praying we will leave a Godly heritage for those who follow our footsteps.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7877. Thank you, Linda.

    Time in His presence so refreshes. And to think He’s (always) with us! Gotta learn to really tap into that 🙂

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I felt a little bad repeating something I wrote last year, but it is just so appropriate. The thought of God with us makes me smile and cry all at the same time. How He must love us to come to earth to be with us always. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7878. Beautiful stories like this touch the heart
    and add faith to the kindness of mankind.
    How little it may seem to some
    the light actually burns endlessly within.
    Thanks Linda!
    🙂

    Reply

  7879. I wanted to make a pumpkin cheesecake too . . .but my hubby didn’t think he’d like it. ha! Now, I’ll ask if he likes pecan pie. He does like pecans . . .;) Thank you Linda, for keeping things cookin’! love, deb

    Reply

  7880. Linda . . .this was so beautiful. We have too much, sometimes, when it distracts us from Jesus. Thank you so much. You are really blessing me with all your posts! love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, This is particularly good to hear Johnny Cash “sing” it. He really talks all the way through the song, but his voice is so wonderful. The same CD has him reading “There Was a Man” with music in the background. Glad you liked this one. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7881. Thank you Linda for that Christmas wish
    – to be blessed with the presence of God
    me with Him and Him with me.
    What can be more exciting than that?
    Holy holy holy holy Christmas come!
    🙂

    Reply

  7883. So true Linda, the definitive meaning of Christmas is God with us. Reading all the blogs I do now, and yours is one of them each day, so much Christmas, so many good Christian people – Merry Christmas

    Reply

  7884. Thank you so much Linda, for helping us focus more on Him this Christmas. I love the name Immanuel too! How we need Him with us. god bless you! deb

    Reply

  7885. Hi Linda,

    You’ve posted two of my favourites, thank you!

    It came upon a midnight clear also ranks high on my list!

    Blessings
    ann

    P.S. – Not near a computer so I’m having a bit of a back log. Shall catch up soon!

    Reply

  7886. Those are very beautiful songs. I love Christmas songs. I like some because of the beautiful words while others have melodies that make me want to hear them and sing them again and again. It is so hard to pick a favorite.

    I know you are a big Johnny Cash fan and you like country music. There is a song that was done by the Judds on their “Christmas Time With the Judds” album that was released in 1999.It has this haunting melody and beautiful harmony I just love! I have sung it before with my husband and also once in a ladies quartet. You can hear it on rhapsody if you don’t have it in your collection. 🙂 Here are the lyrics below:

    Who is This Babe

    Who is this baby
    Where did he come from
    He’s the son of a carpenter
    The chosen one
    He’s the hope of the angels
    A gift of his love
    Just a child in a manger
    Gods only son

    Hallelujah, hallelujah
    Hallelujah, hallelujah

    Shepards were watching
    Out under the sky
    When the star over Bethlehem
    Lit up the night
    He’s the light in the darkness
    A gift from above
    He is held with the spirit
    Of Gods holy love

    Hallelujah, hallelujah
    Hallelujah, hallelujah

    Angels sing
    Worship our king

    Reply

    • Theresa, I love those lyrics! Thank you for sharing. I will definitely look that one up, maybe see if I can download it from Amazon or iTunes for my iPod. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

    • Craig, I forgot from last year about the snowflakes. I was surprised to see them this morning; just glad they are only on the computer! I have O Come O Come Emmanuel stuck in my head today, which is a good thing. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7888. Let it be known that I sing the song
    O Holy Night first
    before I made this comment.
    You actually made me sing Linda
    — with feelings!
    That is one of my favorites too
    as well as Little Drummer Boy.

    … Little Baby, pa rum pum pum pum
    I am a poor boy too, pa rum pum pum pum
    I have no gift to bring, pa rum pum pum pum
    That’s fit to give the King, pa rum pum pum pum,
    rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

    Shall I play for you, pa rum pum pum pum,
    On my drum?

    …I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum,
    rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

    Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum
    Me and my drum.

    And the tears of the little drummer in me fell
    because He smiled at me!
    Thanks Linda! 🙂

    Reply

    • Rea, I love that one, too! I remember long ago in the 6th grade I played it on the xylophone in the school Christmas program. 🙂 Thanks for singing. I bet that sounded wonderful. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  7889. Oh Linda, I love these too! 🙂 I like everything! One that they play on the radio is “Mary Did You Know” and that one blesses me also. 🙂 This is a wonderful post, that glorifies Him and helped homework get done too! 🙂 Oh . . .for some reason, Silent Night, often makes me cry! I’m weird that way though . . .well, in lots of ways actually! ha! God bless you and your joy in Him!

    Reply

    • Deb, I love “Mary Did You Know,” too! And we always sing “Silent Night” at the Christmas Eve candlelight service. It’s awesome! I don’t think it is weird that a Christmas carol would make you cry. “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” makes me cry every time I hear it. I even wrote a post about it last year. :). Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  7890. Thanks for sharing a great summary from your class. Dr. Coleman’s book has meant a lot to my ministry and glad to see that it continues to bless others.

    Your last point is so vital. Vibrant and ongoing evangelism is rooted in nurturing our own relationship with Christ. Fresh stories of God’s activity, fresh readings from Scripture, all become tools that God can use when you are an available witness for Him.

    Chris W
    EvangelismCoach.org
    ***************************************************

    Reply

    • Chris, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I have been getting a lot out of this class. Our pastors who are teaching the class are both wonderful witnesses for Christ and I am learning a lot from the. It is great to have a place to share what I have learned. Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  7891. Prayer, so right on Linda – and your words reminded me that I hadn’t chatted with God yet this morning, well timed words. The not going it alone part? All my life that’s how it’s been. First me, then me and God. Only recently have I acknowledged the need for community. Starts with groups of two doesn’t it?

    God Bless

    Reply

    • Craig, Yes, a relationship with God is the beginning, and the groups of two for strength and encouragement. I love the passage from Ecclesiastes. I’ve actually included it in at least 3 other posts over the past year. It’s possible to be a Christian on your own, but the sailing is smoother in community. I do believe, however, that relationships with other bloggers can provide some of what we need from community. Of course, you don’t get the hugs that come with face-to-face relationships. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7892. Linda . . .you did such a great job of presenting this! 🙂 I feel like I’m getting to take the class with you. I really like all the points . . .the importance of learning to pray and know His word, to join up with other believers, and the one about going where there is more possibility of an audience to receive Him. I had never thought about that Linda! To not spend a lot of time where the door is closed, but look more for openings. Thank you for being such a good teacher! 🙂 Love learning here! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, My ability to teach this material reflects the commitment of those who are teaching the class to point us all to Jesus! And my reliance on the Holy Spirit’s leading in how to present it. It is such a wonderful class and I love getting to share it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Craig, One of my Christmas decorations is a replica of the Charlie Brown Christmas tree, with a single red ornament and Linus’ blanket around the bottom. “I never did think it was such a bad little tree.” Peace and Merry Christmas, Linda

      Reply

  7895. That’s great. I will have to tell my wife because she loves A Charlie Brown Christmas, too. It is always fascinating to me how the Lord can use just a little portion of Scripture to accomplish His purpose.

    Reply

  7897. wow, what a prayer! I liked the “You sustain me from day to day” part. 🙂 I am so aware that I wouldn’t make it without Him! ha! God bless you, Linda . . .laughed at your response to the checker!

    Reply

    • Deb, All of Martin Luther’s prayers are just awesome! I use them when I do the Prayers of the People at church and people are always telling me how wonderful the prayer was. I have to confess that I borrow heavily from the Lutheran Book of Prayer! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, Yes, I think bacon is an excellent way to make vegetable yummy! And the cream doesn’t hurt things any, either. Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7900. First, is there another cranberry sauce other than the kind in the can? 🙂

    And today I’m holding onto “mindful of your mercies every day” – every day, know it not – he showers us doesn’t he? Thank you Linda.

    Reply

    • Craig, The checker at the grocery store on Wednesday told me I should make it homemade. I assured her it was the jellied canned that my husband wanted and I was making enough other things homemade. 🙂

      Yes, He does shower us with His mercies whether we realize it or not. For that I am thankful! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7901. Thank you Linda, for always sharing what God asks you to. I had to chuckle at Ann’s basket weaving comment. Sorry . . .I know this isn’t a funny subject. And I’ve been there in church, teaching and helping with the children, and falling into how I could keep them entertained more than anything. So . . .guilty. The more we stray from the main thing, Jesus, the more complicated and diluted His message gets.
    God bless you for helping us stay on track! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, It’s okay. I chuckled at basket weaving, too. But seriously I do think the churches need to just focus on Jesus, point people to Jesus, develope relationships based on God’s love, and the numbers will follow. Jesus said if He was lifted up people would come. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving! I’ll be making apple stuffing. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7902. Linda,

    I’m pondering this section of your post:-

    “It seems that some churches today have forgotten this principle. They do not simply teach the truth and leave it to the individual whether to believe and follow as Jesus did. Instead, they run after people with offers of compromise and programs to fill their selfish desires for entertainment and instant gratification, all to increase membership numbers. ”

    How did we get here? I pray God would open our eyes and understanding that we would walk in His ways…that we would love the things He loves and teach others as He did. It’s not about the bells and whistles. These things add up to zero if our efforts at evangelism cause others to miss the mark.

    I really and truly pray that we arise from our slumbering state before the cry of the Bridegroom is heard. The fields are ready, He says. It’s harvest time but we seem to be holding ‘basket weaving classes’ instead of bring the full truth of the gospel to those who are perishing.

    Thanks for this timely reminder.

    In His service,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, This has been what He has been impressing upon me more and more over the past year. When others in the church talk of what we need to do to increase numbers my first thought is always that if we lift up the name of Jesus they will come. I love your analogy to “basket weaving classes”! I found myself shaking my head in agreement when I read that. I also pray that the Church will arise from our slumber in time lest we be away getting more oil for our lamps and the doors of the banquet be closed in our absence. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7903. I think that is just wonderful! It is a very special thing to have a close relationship with your child where you are able to share truth and trust that it will not return void. The Lord has shown me some things about that.

    I have had some very humbling experiences. Homeschooling parents (especially Christian ones) can become very proud and respecters of…”themselves”, and not even realize it; it is so easy to slip from a position of honoring God to a position of merely honoring “forms of godliness”. I know that I was and I still can be that way, and I just hate it. The Lord points that out to me daily.

    This is a very thoughtful post and I have so many thoughts on this subject but they are not those of the “typical Christian” Homeschooler.

    “Sometimes the darkness gets to me, but then I am reminded that no matter how dark it gets, there is a light to show me the way. Speaking of Jesus as well as His witness John the Baptist, the apostle John wrote:

    In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

    There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.

    The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. John 1:4-9.”

    My son is 22 now and my daughter is 16. I applaud the convictions expressed in both your posts and the comments. Sometimes the darkness gets to me, too; both the darkness without and the dark places within. Do not grow weary of well doing, but the most important thing is to keep clinging to what you know…”that no matter how dark it gets, there is a light to show me the way”. If your child has faith in Jesus, that light will be in Him guiding him. We parents might be their trainers, but praise the Lord! He is the Author and Finisher of our faith.

    Looking unto Jesus,

    Theresa

    Reply

  7904. I enjoyed this post. It is true that parents should teach their children the truth and have good books on hand that offer a Christian perspective. There is a company called “Apologia” that have great science books. Both of my children have used them.

    Reply

    • Theresa, Thanks for the tip on Apologia. I will check that out. Back in the 7th grade my son actually did a speech for Communications class arguing that Intelligent Design should be taught alongside evolution in science class. I was surprised that he was able to find some good resource materials in the school’s Opposing Viewpoints database. He did a great job with the speech and got an A. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7905. Wow! What great teaching and Spirit leading! Loved that last paragraph and last line! Going to be thinking about that, that the Spirit of God always insists on making Christ known. Oh, it makes me excited! and hopeful! Thank you Linda, for using your gifts to bless us so!

    Reply

    • Deb, Out of the 2 chapters we covered that was the thing that most excited me, too! Isn’t that really what it’s all about? It’s not having the right ideas or theology or worship style. It’s about making Christ known to a world that needs Him! I think I can handle that. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7906. I always like me a little Augustinian love “If you believe what you like in the gospels, and reject what you don’t like, it is not the gospel you believe, but yourself.” Made me smile – and convicted me. Today Linda, you listened, and caused me to listen, and made Christ known’ again.

    Reply

    • Craig, I always love when the things I read or hear in various places all seem to work together. Then I know it’s God talking. Glad I could make you smile today! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, I highly recommend this book! And there are some things in these two chapters I thought of after I posted that might end up in another post soon. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann and Deb, Thanks for the encouraging comments! I have really been surprised at how this one has stuck in my head all week in spite of all the other music I have listened to on my iPod and in the car. It’s a good one, for sure. And Hank was always one of my dad’s favorites. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7912. Linda this sounds good! If not for my family, maybe to take! I tried some apple stuffing with pork chops once, and hubby didn’t like it. I shared it with my mom and she loved it. So I bet yours would be even better to take and share as a casserole. God bless you for taking the time to put up recipes and inspiring us in the kitchen. 🙂 love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Your hubby sounds kinda picky! Mine will eat almost anything I cook. If he doesn’t like something I made, chances are I didn’t either. Also, if you don’t have Honeycrisp apples, you could probably use any sweet, red apple. They just happen to be my favorite variety and what I had in the fridge. Hope they like this wherever you take it for Thanksgiving. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7913. “I suspect that any suggestion by a student that the creation story of Genesis is not a myth would be discouraged because people of other faiths or no faith at all might be offended.”

    You are correct. An important question to ask is, how would you feel if a student of another faith (Hinduism, Islam, Mormonism, Scientology, or Neo Paganism) used class time to proclaim that their creation story was not a myth and the truth that everyone should believe?

    “I suspect that any suggestion by a student that Evolution on the macro-level (meaning humans evolved over time starting with a single-celled organism) is not true and that the Theory of Intelligent Design makes more sense would be laughed at, and any test answers to that effect would certainly not result in a good grade.”

    Correct. Because Intelligent Design is not backed up by science, and you are describing what would happen in a science classroom.

    Again, consider if the public school taught what the Raliens believe, that humans were artificially created and designed by advanced aliens. Do you want that taught to your children as if it were actual science? I have my doubts.

    Reply

    • Thanks for the comment. I would welcome a discussion in which students were allowed, or encouraged, to discuss their differences of faith. I would prefer that the teacher, however, not tell any student that what they have been taught at home is the truth is really just a myth.

      However, I strongly disagree that Intelligent Design is not backed up by science. There are many scientists who study the complexity of the universe and see evidence that it is more likely than not that life could not have happened randomly as Evolutionary theory suggests. There are also scientists who see problems with Evolutionary theory. Just because Evolution is the current preferred theory currently doesn’t mean it is correct. However, the purpose of this blog is not to get into a scientific debate, but to provide encouragement and light to the world. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7914. Wonderful post, Linda. I have heard about that book from a friend, but have never read it. I will have to try to find a copy. To me the saddest part is that some people willing choose darkness. I guess it comes back to “they love darkness because their deeds are evil.” I know that I need to allow my light to shine more than I do! Thanks for this post- it will give me something to think about all day!

    Reply

  7915. Hi Linda
    Thank you for this awakening post about how we are so easily sucked into the vortex of the world around us that wants to believe in their own wisdom rather than subject themselves to one who is superior, higher and in fact their own creator. Just one thing that came to mind was the fact that Christ is able to reach those who have chosen to live in the dark. Paul did not seek Christ but instead Christ sought him. When I lived in the Middle East, I was so taken aback by the testimonies of staunch and often radical muslims who saw a vision of Jesus come and speak to them and transform them from their darkness into His light. All of us born again christians did not seek Christ but He sought us and pulled us out of our dark worlds into His glorious light.
    In Him,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, You are so right! In fact, in Tortured for Christ , Richard Wurmbrand speaks of many communists who Christ called out of darkness and how he and other tortured Christians were witnesses to the light. There is a verse in which Jesus says that no one can come to Him unless the Father calls them. When I pray for those who are in darkness my prayer is always that the Father calls them to Christ. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7916. Thanks, Linda.

    Really praying that God would give you strength as you bring forth what He’s placed on your heart.

    This is a lot ( a whole lot) to digest. Sometimes I feel like we’ve lost a generation but this entry is an encouragement that God is able to do what seems impossible. Yes, we must show them the light. Keeping what we know ‘close to our chests’ is not helping at all.

    Sunday School was the place we had questions answered when I was a child… what will we do for the ‘un-churched’? How do we help them see the light?

    … If we don’t tell them, they won’t know. 🙁

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, My son has a friend who says he is an atheist, and I have a neice who says the same thing. It breaks my heart. Jesus said a lamp was not meant to be kept under a basket; His light is not meant to be hidden in our hearts and not shared. Thanks for your encouragement. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7917. What a heartfelt and relevant post! If we don’t teach them, who will? I remember the youth pastors praying for more back up at home to what they were doing.
    About the darkness and light … I can remember those dark days. I would run from the light. Praying for others who are in that place, to see the light and not turn away.
    God bless you as the Holy Spirit fills you with what is important to Him, and you write . . .

    Reply

  7918. That’s why I read Deb. This is streamlined and sublime Linda.

    Not a wasted word.

    “I would forgo it all
    If it meant
    Not losing You.”

    I’ll remember today, because of your words, that Our Lord is the only thing I have that I never want to lose – and in the most stunning of ways, can’t lose.

    That’s what this poem did to me.

    I heart your poem 🙂

    Reply

    • Craig, I don’t often write poetry, but every once in a while I feel like what I want to say has to be in poem form because it might get lost in all the words if I write it in prose. I see you have grasped exactly what I wanted to convey! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7919. Thank you for allowing me to share, Linda.

    What if we would really live so that others ‘mock’ us by calling us Christians? If we could really, truly live as He commanded … there would hardly be a need to stand up and declare with our mouths who we think we are as our lives would be a living testimony!

    [Christian, Follower of Christ, Servant of Jehovah, His Hands Extended, are all wonderful names I can call myself but I want the way I live for Him to speak of who He is in my life and what He has done for me. If I miss the mark it will be sad indeed. I do not want to be weighed and found wanting.]

    Our team meets in a few weeks. I’d so like to raise this discussion point. Please pray that I will remember to return here and post the responses for you. I pray your post will not only cause us to take stock but that God would use your thoughts to fuel the start of a revival!!

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, This comment reminded me of the song “Crazy Enough” by MercyMe, which goes like this:

      Call me crazy but what if we learn
      To love our brother for nothing in return?
      Oh how the rules would change

      Reaching out to the ones who need help
      Treating them as you first would treat yourself
      Now that would be insane

      [CHORUS]
      It may just be crazy enough
      To work if we could only love
      What if we somehow changed the world?
      It may just be crazy enough

      “With God, all things are possible” even if they seem a bit crazy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7920. You did such a great job and your poem reflects what He has put on your heart concerning Him. It touches me to see you so impacted by the book. May we all be impacted for Him too! God bless you! deb

    Reply

  7922. Linda,

    This is probably the umpteenth time I’ve quoted my Pastor “Relationship is everything”. If we have a right relationship with our Father then we will love and serve Him as we should. If we have a right relationship with our brothers and sisters, then there will be love (and the other fruit of the Spirit), respect, understanding, and whatever else we need to live together while we live together here.

    I could be wrong but I don’t think Jesus ever referred to His followers as Christians. The name was pronounced (more like a mockery than anything else) on those who were said to be like Christ. How can I be a Christian if I don’t reflect Him? … [I never even realized how this lines up with Exodus 20:7 “thou shalt not take the name of the Lord in vain” ! Calling myself a Christian while living in sin is wrong]. If my life can be so like His that I become ‘guilty by association’ I think it would be a life worth living.

    When we, as humans, can look beyond our own faults and failures and learn to love as the Christ did when He walked this earth, we would be well on our way to living as He commanded in Matthew 22:37-40. ( The great commandments)

    I too agree that structure is needed. I also believe that we need not get so hung up on rules and putting up fences and putting others in boxes that we forget the reason we signed up in the first place, to “let our lights so shine before men that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in Heaven” . Mathew 5:16

    If I live to be as old as Methuselah and I don’t reflect a Christ-like lifestyle, I dare say I would have lived in vain. At the end of it all, we each get to give an account of the life we lived…

    God bless you Linda. Thanks for this thought-provoking piece. Jesus sought those who needed Him and spent time ministering tothe despised and rejected. Yes, it would be good if we could learn to love like He did.

    I want to be identified with Christ Jesus.Bearing the name is pointless if we don’t live up to His example. I pray that God would be pleased with the life I live before Him.

    In His Service,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, What a thoughtful comment! Thank you for adding this to my post. Structure is great, but you are right that the relationship is everything. When we are in a right relationship with Jesus and are reconciled to God, then He writes His law on our hearts and we have a desire to be more like Him. I pray that God is pleased with the life I live, as well. I am thankful that He is faithful to answer heartfelt prayers such as this, and will see my life as one who trusted in Jesus. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7923. Hi Linda

    Thanks for the poem.

    The last part of Matthew 6:8 gets knocked around our group a lot. Helps us to keep things in focus. 🙂

    Your lovely poem reminds me of a song discussion yesterday. Do we really mean it when we sing ‘I’ll trade sunshine for rain, comfort for pain … if through sorrow more like You I’ll become”?

    We do like our creature comforts BUT having all this and not having the gift of eternal life would be a recipe for disaster 🙂

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7924. Hi Linda,
    I just started a blog and am poking around looking for ideas and found you. I like your blog and topics as I am a Christian. I love your verse of the week.
    I’m sure I’ll be back! By the way, I started a blog about the crazy world of real estate sales called Sherlock’s Homes. the address is nanseetee.wordpress.com.

    Reply

    • Nancy, Good luck with the blog. I have found it to be very rewarding over the past year, especially all the blogging friends I have made. As for real estate, I’ve lived in the same house for 22 years, just remodeled it last year, and plan to retire here because we love our neighborhood, so it’s not a big interest of mine. But I’ll check out your blog. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7925. Followed your link from Connect. Very nicely expressed. The song Debbie refers to is by Jason Gray “More Like Falling In Love” from “Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue”. Great lyrics, and so true! Looking forward to more entries.

    Reply

    • Robyn, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. And thanks for the help on the song from Deb. It wasn’t familiar to me but I will have to check it out now that I know the artist. I usually post something every day, except Sunday. I will probably only include a link at 3D Connect when a Third Day song is included in the post. Don’t want people thinking I’m just trying to promote my blog. But I’d love to have you come back any time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7926. Our CHRISTIANITY has lost much of it’s flavor – or I guess – much has lost it’s flavor. You are so right.

    “What each individual needs is a Savior; what mankind needs is a Deliverer; what the world needs is a Redeemer.” — Linda – that is such a nice progression of thought. It’s kind of a trilmma. Switch the terms for Our Lord around and each is needed for each point in the progression of thought. I just sat here and rewrote it and kept switching and I think I got it. All about Our Lord isn’t it. Wow.

    We need a little RELIGION – we need some structure, and unity, but without Jesus it’s a unity of nothing. Thank You Linda.

    Reply

    • Craig, Yes, I agree that structure and rules can be important, but as you point out, without Jesus we have a unity of nothing. As for the progression, now that I look at it again I think it should be Savior, Redeemer, Deliverer. But I probably won’t go back and change it. I tend not to edit my own writing much, unless I find an actual typo. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Eric, I like that, too – “Christ follower.” It focuses quite nicely the person and the relationship that are important. Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I’m looking forward to reading more of your poetry, too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7928. I am so thankful for His Spirit in you, that guides you and helps you to continue to write such important posts. Your reasoning about religion and Christianity makes a lot of sense. I somehow came to start calling myself a believer in Jesus, rather than Christian.
    This brings to mind a song, that I don’t know all of or who sings. (big help, huh)
    It’s gotta be
    more like falling in love
    than something to believe in
    more like loosing myself
    than pledging my allegiance
    called up, called out
    come take a look at me now
    seems like I’m falling
    in love.
    (another part goes something like)
    ’cause all religion every made of me
    was a sinner with a stone tied to my feet
    it never set me free . . .
    Thank you Linda, for using the gifts He has given you to tackle some of the harder issues! You bless me! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, You shared the gist of the song and I love the lyrics. It is more like falling in love! Jesus is someone to believe in instead of something to believe in. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7929. This is so true. A million passed out “tracts” does not equal one friend.

    And your silent nomination of the woman behind you – sneaky good.

    To be more like Jesus the evangelist – wow – perfectly pointed words today.

    thank you linda

    Reply

    • Craig, I am reminded of my obsession with how many people read my blog, but really it is those who comment and whose blogs I comment on that have become my friends. The numbers aren’t important. Even in the blogosphere it is the relationships that are most important so that we can learn from each other. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7930. I’m so glad that you are going to be sharing more about this! I don’t get to do that one-on-one relationship with very many, but maybe all the more important for me to learn for the few I do! 🙂
    Linda . . .you are such a blessing! I’m so excited about this! 🙂
    love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Never forget that Jesus picked only 12 (and sadly even one of them ended up betraying Him). Numbers are not as important as individual relationships and small groups that include Jesus. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7931. Thank You Linda.

    This sounds like a very exciting study.

    Our Pastor’s life theme seems to be “Relationship is Everything”. I’m connecting the dots and am seeing how this ties in to life in real time.

    You are so right. We don’t always know how we have impacted others. I’m asking myself the questions you asked … I’m hoping and praying that the example I live will cause others to want to know Him more.

    Looking forward to more updates from your sessions!

    blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I am excited about this study, and the plan to implement it and not have it just be another class when the 6 weeks are up. I will definitely be giving updates. I think what I learn will be worth sharing because it’s all about Jesus! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7932. Good stuff, Lady Linda

    I thought the ‘rice stuff’ was as easy as it got 😉

    If I get a chance to try this, I’ll add the Parmesan. Cheese is always good 🙂

    Thanks as always.

    Blessings
    ann

    P.S. – you should write a book ” dinner in 20 minutes or it’s free!” lol

    Reply

    • Ann, I’m not sure I have enough original recipes for a book! But I’m glad you enjoy the recipes. I was going to post my lasagne recipe today, but it is NOT easy and I didn’t have time. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7933. I love that . . .life’s too short and this stuff is pretty tasty and easy. 🙂 I often have to go the quick route and this sounds so good! Thank you!

    Reply

  7934. Thanks, Linda.

    The price of freedom is high, very high. I’m thankful for those who fought for our freedom and humbled and amazed that a King died to give me eternal life.

    Blessings always,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Your comment reminds me of a song we sing in church, and which is apparently by Newsboys. The lyrics are:

      Amazing love, how can it be
      That You, my King, should die for me?
      Amazing love, I know it’s true
      It’s my joy to honor You
      In all I do, to honor You

      Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ryan, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I didn’t know what the bayeux tapestry was, but now that I’ve looked it up I like your comment. I short, long tapestry that we could never look at all in one glance, but I bet God sees it all at once! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7937. Linda…

    Excitement got the better of me again 🙂

    Name edit please and thank you.

    ( I should go back to bed now. Sleep cures many things) lol

    Reply

  7938. Thank you, Linda.

    Wonderful post!! Amazing how God comforts us through His words.

    The diversity of the issues covered in the Psalms never ceases to amaze me!

    Bless you for sharing
    ann

    P.S. Psalm 139 for me 🙂

    Reply

  7939. Linda . . .thank you for praying, for reading, for writing such a clear call to love those who hurt us . . .to love everyone. There is something so freeing in loving those that harm us, and so assuring that He is alive and working in us when it happens. If there is anything that will say Jesus to the unsaved, I would think that this would be it.
    I’m crying with this one. There are some who have hurt me and yes, He has asked me to love them still. And I have, mostly. Can I love them more? I think so. Can you pray for me in this? Thank you! You have been His voice to me tonight.

    Reply

  7940. Linda,

    There is so much I want to say, I don’t know where to start… It’s hard to go through an experience like that and still ‘pray for those who hurt us’, but that is what God has called us to do!

    Without a doubt, it has to be the love of God within us that will cause us to respond in love to those who cause us pain. We’re getting to a point in history where persecution of Christians is likely to step up on a broader scale. The Word says blessed are those who are persecuted … for (His)name sake. That says a lot more than we imagine.

    Thanks for this wonderful post. Yes, the love that Christ displays is the love we should all inspire to. I pray that when we face these circumstances, that He would teach us to respond in Christ-like love.

    Blessings, Linda. Thank you for reminding me how much I am loved and how I ought to love (so help me God).

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Yes, “so help me God” is exactly what we need to pray! I know I can’t love the way Wurmbrand talks about without His help. I think you are right about persecution of Christians stepping up on a broader scale. So glad He is on the side of truth and love so that no matter what happens we are safe in His grace. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7941. Thank you, Linda.

    I love the Psalms ( Psalm 139 is my personal favorite). It seems that there’s a Psalm for whatever issue I have to face. Some days I have no words but His words speak the very things I cannot say.

    Thanks for this reminder. The Lord is indeed compassionate and merciful. I am truly thankful.

    God bless you
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I’m glad you enjoyed this post. When I am at a loss for words to post, the Psalms are where I turn. My favorite is Psalm 116 (I actually posted once about “My Favorite Psalm” on why it is my favorite). I sometimes feel like it’s a cop out to just post just a Psalm, but the response is always positive. His Word truly does not return void. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Most welcome 🙂

        Not a cop out at all. The Psalms are a wonderful place to feed and grow 🙂

        Would you please share the link to your favorite Psalm? 😉 I’d like to read it, thank you.

        You’re a gem!

        blessings,
        ann

  7942. I love how you found relief within the Psalms. And from turning to God and trusting He will answer. What a beautiful example you set for us as we go through our own times of doubt and weakness. So thankful for His faithfulness and mercy each day! God bless you, friend!

    Reply

    • Deb, I don’t know where I would be without the Psalms and the example they give us of how to cry out to God in our need. And how to praise Him no matter what the circumstances. I am also thankful for His faithfulness and mercy each day, and for your always encouraging comments. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7943. This is great, Linda!

    Thank you for the link. This is a wonderful analogy. Quite an eye opener.

    Sometimes it’s hard to swallow but yes, the process is definitely a process – not an overnight change.

    May I please have your permission to send the link to a friend?

    blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, You can always send a link to anything on my blog to friends! What I write is there to be shared. 🙂

      I hope this doesn’t sound vain, but when I re-read this the other night my favorite part was about how the change from coal to diamond does not happen anywhere in nature, and that the change from sinner to saint likewise does not happen in nature but is a supernatural event.

      Reply

  7944. P.S. – I looked at the inside of my shirt to get a better understanding.:-) It does look better from the outside but if the seams weren’t there, the garment would be in pieces.

    His plans are perfect!

    Reply

    • Ann, I hadn’t thought in terms of a shirt, but that fits, too. What a blessing to be a seam in God’s sewing project! Imagine being stitched in and out with the sowing machine – doesn’t sound fun – but holds the pieces of his handiwork together just as His grand pattern provides! Thanks for this wonderful addition to my analogy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7945. Thank you, Linda!!

    Now I have a point of reference 😉 It’s beyond words … the way He lines up everything. Each thread has a purpose even when it seems to oddly stick out of place 🙂

    Bless your heart for sharing.

    ann

    Reply

  7946. It makes me smile too! I love that, thinking about the backside of the tapestry. It reminds me of turning my daughter’s new colorful knee-highs inside out for her, so the seams don’t bug her so much. They look so different . . .but to her, they are still beautiful. (she’s used to seeing everything inside out! ha!) I need to get used to seeing it that way too . . .and trust Him.
    I loved how He arranged the posts today. You fit right into His handiwork. God bless you always! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, When my son was young I had to trim the lumpy seams out of his socks, too. Never thought to just turn them inside out! He also hated any shirt with a tag. He is still sensitive, but has grown to be able to tolerate these little annoyances, and he always sees the beauty in God’s creation. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7947. Linda,
    As I read your post, I was so inspired to pray and I thank God for using you to bring me to my knees once again. When I hear of people suffering, I rejoice in it because God gives us the opportunity to show He lives and we get to show how we can love and care because He loves us. Suffering is an integral part of our faith walk and we need to praise God for our suffering as much as for His blessings. It was through suffering that we are saved and it is through suffering that we will continue to grow in Him because our faith is built up and our love for Him grows. Jesus said that in this life, we will face persecution and I praise God that He finds me worthy of suffering for His namesake.
    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

  7948. Hi Linda,

    I’ve gone over this one back and forth and back and forth… this is DEEP!!!! I’ve been trying to digest what you posted. I’m still coming to terms with the simple reality of it all.

    The last couple of days I’ve seen a theme across some blogs… When we see ourselves through His eyes, a whole new world opens up.

    I heard a pastor ask his congregation if they could go for a whole day without sinning. Most said ‘no’ … He said it was because we believed the lies of the enemy even though Christ has called us to holiness. I never thought of that before and have been mulling over it. I don’t think your post is coincidental at all.

    With blessings and gratitude,
    ann

    Reply

  7949. It can actually help you ease the pain and heal faster. If I don’t have yet what I want (which I’m not sure He wants too for me) there’s no problem if others have it first (is it actually through my prayers?)

    I heart this post and you Linda! 🙂

    Reply

    • So true, praying for others can ease our own pain and help us to heal. As we take our focus off ourselves and put it on what Christ wants to do, we are blessed beyond measure. I heart you, too! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7950. Dear Linda,

    I visited a congregation this afternoon … the focus of the sermon was how to truly love. “True love is not self-centered and has nothing to do with how I feel”. So despite the things that are happening to me, I can still pray for others, especially for those who don’t know Him.

    Many thanks for the reminder/confirmation/poke in the side. 😉

    Much blessing
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I like the concept that love is an action verb, not just a feeling. When Jesus died on the cross for our sins, that action was the ultimate example of love. Feelings come and go, but true love never dies. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Eden, It is also a reminder of how hard my son worked to try to put it back together, and what a good heart he has because of his relationship with Christ. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7952. This really resonated with me. It is kind of like the other day, when God highlighted the fact that the Israelites began sacrificing while in the wilderness. I often want to help and do more for others than I actually can, in my situation. But, I can pray for them. God bless you, Linda!

    Reply

    • Deb, I think sometimes we feel like “all we can do” is pray, but really prayer is the best and first thing we should always do. In our time of prayer God might lead us to help in other ways, but prayer is the means by which we call on the power of God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • You could probably substitute just plain tomato juice if you don’t have V-8. I didn’t realize there were places you couldn’t get it. As for the marjoram, yes it is dried. I almost always use dried spices (except when I use the basil plant someone gave me, which seems to be on its last leg, or root 🙂 ). If you don’t have marjoram, that’s okay. You could put in dried summer savory instead. That’s what I love about cooking (as opposed to baking) – small substitutions are usually not a big deal. Hope you get a chance to try this. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7954. Thank you, my kitchen angel! I haven’t made stew with tomato sauce for a long time. I love the possibilities you unleash! Blessings for your weekend! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, This beef stew is what helps me survive the cold winter. I can go all summer without even thinking about it, but as soon as the weather turns cold I gotta make it! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7955. What a great idea for you to do, Linda! I too love books. Just go through times when I don’t get to read too much beyond the Bible . . .but I really like to when I can. Thanks for your honest review of this book! 🙂 God bless you! You are always up to something good!

    Reply

  7957. I think the enemy loves to see us get all caught up in not being perfect, to discourage us from even going to Jesus. But He came for all us imperfect people. So glad He’s big enough to handle it all!
    Today . .I was late for something . . .again! One of my weaknesses . . .being late! My oldest calls me time dysfunctional. She’s right! Time to go to Jesus . . .
    God bless you! deb

    Reply

  7959. Deb, sorry your husband had that experience but I’m happy he’s doing well. May God bring complete healing in such a way that it baffles those who see the change!!

    Linda, thanks for sharing this. We just had a discussion about how we should pray for those who deliberately do us harm. It’s one thing to ask God to forgive them and another thing to ask Him to bring swift justice.

    We had to deal with an experience that proved that we are powerless without God but also showed us that our strength is in Him alone.

    Blessings
    ann

    Reply

      • Oh, me too, Linda! My husband had a heart attack on Tuesday. It has been a few days here of needing carried! (hubby is doing great – stent in place and he gets to come home here in a little while!) Jesus has covered us through it all, just like the good Shepherd He is! 🙂

  7961. I didn’t see the connection at first, Ann, but now it’s sinking in. It’s a sermon for me too! I keep posting things and then He uses them in my own life.
    Linda, you are on one of those rolls again, and it’s a good one. So thankful that you respond to His guidance and voice, because it’s always what I need!

    Reply

  7962. *sigh*

    Linda… thak you so much.

    I will sneak back out now…between you and Deb, there is a sermon in here somewhere.

    Thanks for sharing, Linda. Thank you.
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, How sweet of you to say thanks not once, not twice, but three times! This has been a very hard lesson for me, but worth the learning in the end. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7963. A loving society — love it!
    Don’t you think it is easier to understand and achieve than civil society? Because each culture has it’s own ‘definition’ of what civil is? Sometimes we think it’s about common sense but that sense is not actually common to some. Uh did I made sense?
    🙂

    Reply

  7964. I’m so glad you posted this! 🙂 It’s a small thing to do, if we just think before we respond. . .catch ourselves. Praying to keep catching myself more and more and run my reaction by Jesus first. This sounds like something I would hear on the radio, Linda, from Kendra Smiley (I think that’s her name). She does these short clips called “The next right choice”. Being civil to each other is definitely the next right choice. 🙂 God bless you!

    Reply

  7965. Great points. I agree about the lack of civility in our society, and I do think it’s due to a lack of the Holy Spirit being in control of people. That verse about forgiving others like God has forgiven us really hits home. When I think of all that I have needed forgiveness from, I can’t help but want to forgive others. And I try to always keep that in mind.

    ps- I enjoyed your hymn yesterday on Reformation Day!

    Reply

  7967. Yay

    To read it is different than singing it.

    I’m selfish and not a good enough “us” person so I like to personalize it with “I and me instead of us and we – sorry for puctuatuion and spelling here, my new rescue kitty is hlping with theh typing.

    he’s a bad typer

    Reply

  7968. Thank you Linda! I love the line “His truth to triumph through us.” It can’t not happen. He’s unstoppable. 🙂 I didn’t expect a post from you today, so thank you for the extra blessing!

    Reply

  7970. Sounds interesting. A lady from my church married a man from Morocco and he made us some food one time. It was good! Maybe I’ll shock my wife and give this a try some time when it’s my night to cook. (usually we have pizza or a hamburger helper on that night) 🙂

    Reply

    • Ben, I’ve never made Moroccan anything before, but this was pretty easy because the spices were all in the sauce! That would be a nice surprise for your wife if you did make it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7971. Thank you Linda! 🙂 I do make stew, but this would give it a kick. What do you think about adding potatoes to it instead of doing the rice? Oh, I also put it all in the pressure cooker. Would that be a problem? Thanks for your cooking help!

    Reply

    • Deb, I think adding potatoes would be fine, though you might need a bit more liquid to accomodate them. I don’t have a pressure cooker so I don’t know how that would affect it. I bet it would work great! I have a regular beef stew recipe that I will post one of these days, but I always just make it in a big pot. The Moroccan sauce was just so different from my usual, kinda fun to do something out of the ordinary. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7972. God is certainly using that law study, Linda! 🙂 Once again, I see evidence of nothing wasted.
    I love how you go through this and it comes down to the simplicity of two things.. .loving God and each other. Praying that each of us finds it so!
    God bless you and all your gifts! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Your comments always make me smile! 🙂 I am so thankful that He let’s nothing I have been through go to waste. God bless you and your gifts, too! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7974. I really enjoyed this post. It is so easy to slip into that without even realizing what we are doing.

    The other night I was with a group of ladies, and I noticed that when one lady in particular made certain remarks it made me concerned that she might not agree with me about certain things. Then it dawned on me that I was more concerned about her opinion than some of the other ladies, and I realized it was because of her title, and I was in that moment behaving like a respecter of persons, and that behavior usually comes from a selfish motive. It was convicting moment for me, because I can so easily forget that I must decrease. I am so thankful that the Lord faithfully checks us…sometimes with His still small voice and sometimes through the voices of others. 🙂

    Reply

    • Theresa, I love how He faithfully checks us, too. As Johnny Cash asked the Lord in the song Cowboy’s Prayer:

      Just keep an eye on all that’s done or said
      And right me sometimes when I turn aside
      And guide me on that long, dim trail ahead
      That stretched upward toward the great divide

      As I wrote this I realized that I must be careful to always point others to Him instead of wanting the glory for myself, especially because of my writing. It is His gift to me, and I must not abuse it for my own selfish gain. It’s easy for me to become obsessed with my page stats and whether others are reading and commenting on what I write here. And so I must often remind myself that to Him belongs all the glory for anything worthwhile that might be a blessing to others who visit. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7975. Thank you so much for this reminder Linda. There is much responsibility and temptation in the place where those who are more popular are. Not easy! At the church I started out at, the very much loved pastor moved on. The incoming pastor had big shoes to fill and many could not get past how he was not like the other. It helped to remember to look at Jesus. The first pastor was wonderful, but he was only there to point us to Jesus, the Most Wonderful One. ( the second pastor became well loved too! and moved on . . .) love you! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Pastors and leaders do move on, sometimes for good reasons and sometimes for bad. But Jesus never changes and will never leave us or forsake us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7976. Thanks Linda for directing me in here.
    This is actually my second visit because I have to think first what is my favorite Psalm. I don’t have yet because admittedly I haven’t read yet the whole of it. For sometime now it’s Psalm 23 because even the kiddos recite it. Thank you for sharing the other Psalms, I’m blessed. And I love the way you write it — ‘but this is not my favorite either (3x)’
    🙂

    Reply

  7978. Praying for you Linda, for healing, comfort and peace. I know He has you covered, always! This is one of the Psalms I tried to memorize at one time . . .at a hard time. It blessed me then and it still does! Thank you! And thank you for the blessing of how even in your time of struggle and pain, you are thinking of Him, of what to post, of a way to glorify Jesus. Love that. 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks for the prayers. I memorized a number of Psalms at one point, but I couldn’t recite them anymore. The great thing is that they are all still in my heart! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7979. Linda that is a great poem
    and so true for me, I guess for all.
    Until there is no forgiveness
    there is no life.
    That explains why sometimes
    I’m catching my breath.
    Back then I just cried
    now I sing, while the tears fall.
    At least, I’m learning how to sing.
    🙂

    Reply

    • What a nice comment! When you said “Back then I just cried” it reminded me of my favorite Psalm 116, which I posted about a while back. Before I found forgiveness – both from God and for others – I just cried, too. A lot! Singing is much better. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7980. I love how the songs affect you . . .they do me too! Music is such a great ministry. And what you drew from this song I second too . . .to love like He loves me. Every day, we keep getting closer and closer. Thank you for sharing your heart and your love of Him with us! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, I don’t know what I would do without my Christian music. I am so glad we now have really good music with Christian lyrics. I love the sound of rock music, especially southern rock like Third Day, but the lyrics of the stuff I listened to growing up are not nearly as uplifting and growth-inspiring as listening to Christian rock. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7981. Thanks Linda 🙂

    I think I’m going to try this one too. I need to bend my mind around checking in here on Fridays so I can benefit from your culinary offerings 😉

    I like this one. I like it a lot!!

    blessings
    ann

    Reply

  7982. Hey Linda! Back again. Sorry to connect here, but couldn’t come up with your e-mail. I have a blog question. Do you ever get comments that you don’t approve? I have one waiting and I’m not sure what it means. ha! I don’t want to turn anyone away or be judgmental . . .can you offer any help? Thank you!

    Reply

  7983. This was a great post and another way of looking at this that we don’t consider. I think I too often assume they just don’t want to hear it. And maybe they don’t, but only God knows so I need to stay sensitive to Him. Also, I know in my situations, many don’t want to “hear” but they are looking and watching. And maybe secretly longing to know Him. 🙂

    Reply

  7984. I made scalloped potatoes tonight . . .but just the box kind with meat loaf. I really, really think he’d like this. I think. 🙂 ha! God bless you and your family! The way you share your recipes makes me feel like family too! love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, My dear, you are family! 🙂 If your husband doesn’t like this recipe, he needs to get his tastebuds checked. 😉 I supposed you could add a little bacon, and make it a sure thing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7986. It must be hard to know what people need that you work with and for, but have to follow procedures. I hope you don’t mind that I started laughing, thinking of you at that scintillating seminar . .. writing a poem ( a good one too!) about forgiveness! haha! God bless you!

    Reply

  7987. I loved this reminder about temptation. and the Newsboys are so good. 🙂 I haven’t bought music for a long time, but they were one of my early go to favorites. Thank you, Linda, for helping us with our Jesus walk today!

    Reply

    • Deb, Sometimes I feel guilty that I spend as much on music as I do. In fact, I just got the new Third Day CD yesterday (post already in the making based on one of the songs 🙂 ). But then I realize I am supporting the ministry of these wonderful musicians who are spreading His truth and His word with their music. If no one bought their CDs then they couldn’t continue to do what they do for Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • That’s so true! Don’t feel guilty! When I quit work to be home, many things had to go. That was one! So thankful for my Christian radio station, which I support the little I can. 🙂

  7988. Linda,
    WOW, you just echoed something I’ve recently been reminded of. As I have been challenged with some hard questions about my faith in Christ, I have been poring over christian apologetic writings, watching videos of debates, etc. and realized that there are so many differing opinions about everything that making peace is not worth it because it takes us away from the essence of Christ and what He did for us. Thank you for bringing us back to the foot of the cross to admire what Jesus really is to us.
    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, Thanks for the encouragement. I just kept finding myself becoming irritated by people who so loudly espouse their opinions on Facebook and blogs. Then I realized that the sin God is still working on in me is becoming so easily irritated by others. My focus needs to be on Him and who I point to needs to be only Him! That’s what I felt in my spirit. At the foot of the cross admiring the King with His crown of thorns is where I want to be. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • So beautifully put. Beautiful honesty. I love that and so does He. My place of sin was being so easily offended, hurt and threatened by others opinions, as though someone’s thoughts could lessen Who He is or who I am in Him. I have really loved being set free from that reaction. And , like you, I think through that we will glorify Him more.

  7989. Linda,

    This is well stated and the essence of our Faith… All that is not salvational ( Yes I made that word up here on the spot) is secondary.

    Each Day I strive to find that GOD is enough in my life and IT is obvious that you do too.

    Caite

    Reply

    • Caite, Thanks for stopping by and commenting! It is always encouraging to know that what I write is a blessing and encouragement to others. And I like your made up word. I might have to use it some time, if you don’t mind. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7991. I love how you said this Linda! Thank you so much! It is something that He has been talking to me about lately too, and so that makes your post all the more special. God bless you! deb

    Reply

  7992. Deb,

    Interesting timing. Just purchased my future blog names, (filled with dread by the way), and as you would have it – one of my blogs is on one and only one topic, three and only three verses, just love. I’d say the name but it really doesn’t exist yet – it’s just sitting there empty – soon though 🙂

    God has been busy stilling my heart today – and he used your post to slow the swirling mists.

    Never thought that would happen by just writing down some Scripture didya?

    Thank you

    Reply

    • Craig, I never doubt the power of including scripture in my posts! The more scripture I include, the more powerful they are. Can’t wait to see what you will be writing on love. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7994. Linda . . .I have never fixed fresh green beans. ! ha! But my hubby does like them!!! So, he’d have to like fresh better than canned, right? Oh, do I have a lot to learn. ha!
    Oh . . .my mom gave me something that she ordered. It’s bacon flavored salt. haha! If all else fails, I can always sprinkle what I make with it, for the bacon factor. 🙂
    God bless you and have a great weekend!

    Reply

  7995. Somewhere in the back of my head I hear a mighty choir belting out the words of George Duffield Jr:

    “Stand up, stand up for Jesus
    Ye soldiers of the Cross
    Lift high His royal banner
    It must not suffer loss” !!

    Thank you for sharing. May God bless you as you choose to stand for Him. Thanks for your obedience to our Lord and boldly declaring your choice. He is THE Way.

    Signs of the times are indeed everywhere. Come quickly, Lord Jesus!

    blessings
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, What a great hymn! I can hear that choir now, too. Thank you for your encouragement. 🙂 I echo your words: “Come quickly, Lord Jesus!” before more are led astray. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7996. Linda! I am encouraged and emboldened by your stand in Christ Jesus. I have never heard of the P.C.’s. (And sorry, but I had to giggle about you not being P.C.) Thank you for living out your faith and answering His call on your life. God bless you! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I knew this movement was afoot, but had not heard it called progressive Christianity until a friend send me an invitation to discuss a book by someone we both went to college with. This got me doing some research, which led to this post. I’m glad that you are encouraged and emboldened – that is why I posted this. We all have to stand up for our Lord. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7997. This was my first year growing roses … I was amazed at what the pruning produced. Thanks for this reminder that I, too, am undergoing pruning.

    Blessings to you!

    Reply

    • You are welcome. I’ve had a row of roses in my front yard for 22 years. They were mature rose bushes when I moved in, and at first I didn’t know what to do with them so I didn’t prune much at all. I was amazed what a good pruning in the spring did for them when I learned I was supposed to be doing it. It was really hard at first, because I thought I was going to kill them. I am thankful that God has always known what needs to be pruned in me and when it is most appropriate. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7998. Thanks Linda. The second to last paragraph grips me… It really has to be all about Him.

    The songs are His, created for His glory. Our duty is to worship Him.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, I find that when I ask these questions, I must not forget to ask them of myself. I’m not always happy with my answer, but He’s working to change me to have answers that are more pleasing to Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  7999. Thank you, Linda, for turning us to worship what we should be . . .God! I know some people who lead worship and it is not an easy place to be in. I pray for them alot! 🙂 God bless you!

    Reply

  8000. Amen Linda,

    I always like it when someone who actually gardens expounds on the pruning thing.

    Wouldn’t it be nice if we were all “self pruning” roses – never needing cutting back. I guess, one day.

    Thank you

    God Bless

    Reply

    • Craig, Yes, one day we will need no more pruning. Somedays I wish I was already there. But for now I am content with His timeline for Spirit-pruning. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8001. Thank you mucho.

    A year or so ago God spoke with me on this very subject. It’s painful to go through it and I don’t go willingly either 😉 but pruning is necessary for me to maximize my potential in Him.

    I am learning to trust the Master Gardener, even when it hurts.

    blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  8002. Thank you so much Linda, for this encouragement. This morning as I read and a post slowly eeked itself out for later, I was blessed in a similar way you were with this verse. He spoke to me that nothing is wasted that we do for Him. I really needed to hear that, like you did this. 🙂 God bless you, Linda, as you spread His word. May it bloom in our hearts!

    Reply

  8003. Warning, long and wordy comment to follow:

    First, thank you for being so nice to me after my comment on Deb’s blog. And I’m honored, really honored, that you would ask me to tell you when my blog is up and running.

    Humbled, really

    humbled

    and smiling

    Anyway, I wrote this to someone today:
    When the blog is up, I plan on sending little sparrows out with gold laced invitations. They will alight on everyone’s outstretched fingers, and sing a delightfully, while delivering said invites to come and see. Along with some bunnies. Bunnies are good. Can’t go wrong with bunnies. Squirrels are cute, but not nearly as reliable. Three bunnies have already gotten plane tickets, and a sparrow has googled his flight plan to Chattanooga. Hope that’s ok.

    So, since you’ve now told me it’s ok, I’ll make sure I have bunnies and sparrows lined up for you too.

    Now to your brilliant blog today. Isn’t it funny we think something is brilliant sometimes because we agree so strongly with it? That aside – really on target, really well done. I have said this a million (maybe not that many) times. “It’s not my fault, Jesus was being very selective. He said he’s the only way. It would be easier if he were more inclusive in his language. But he wasn’t. Sorry. He said he brought a sword to divide.”

    I have thought so long and hard over the last few years about what “saved” is. Not what the church says it is, or preachers, or my Seminary profs, or Luther, or Augustine. But what Jesus said it was, through his own words, and then through Paul, James, and the other guys. I came to this conclusion. It’s the Gospel in 7 words.

    Accept the Sacrifice.

    Become the living Sacrifice.

    It’s the blending of the teaching of Paul and James. To believe is more than just mere assent. It’s also the doing. Not legalistic rules. Not earning heaven. Though Paul, James, and Our Lord all say we will be judged by our deeds. But it is all pure grace – so it left me wondering. It’s a paradox. God is so often a paradox.

    We use the words all the time, “accept him as Savior and Lord” then we promptly forget the second part – we accept his sacrifice, then do our own thing. What do you think? I think, I’ll love your answer.

    Oh, and your “big celebration” story – beautiful. There’s this Margaret Becker song, it chills me, and says just what you are saying, in a way that probably neither of us can say – at least me:

    These are the words
    I never speak
    ‘Cause they’d embarrass you
    But they’re haunting me
    These are the tears
    You never see
    They’re foolish to you
    But they’re drowning me
    Tell me what is wrong?
    What can I do
    To make this simple truth
    More true to you
    I don’t want to argue
    Hear me with your heart
    I don’t want to be without you

    These are the arms
    That ache for you
    Frightened to push too hard
    Frightened you’ll slip right through
    This is the joy
    I want you to know
    You say it’s good for me
    But, leave you alone
    Well, I can’t walk away
    Won’t leave you here
    When I am so sure
    We could always be near
    I know a place
    Where we can meet
    I don’t want to be without you

    I’m slain every time I hear it, and convicted.

    Beautiful words today Linda, true, meaty, thought provoking.

    Thank you

    Reply

    • Craig, Thank you for this wonderful comment. I absolutely love the song – I’ve never heard Margaret Becker but will have to find this so I can hear it sung. I would also love an invitation by bunny or sparrow, or both! What a grand idea to celebrate the launching of a blog to glorify the King.

      As for the “Savior and Lord” question, I agree that often we want to be saved by Jesus but not give up control to Him. I believe it is a lifelong growing process, as we learn that putting Christ in control actually leads to more joy and peace than we have when we maintain control (or at least cling to the illusion of control). Some of us have learned that lesson the hard way, maybe most of us will learn it the hard way eventually. I seem to have to relearn it. But I know our Lord is patient and kind, and instructs in the way that is best for each of us.

      I wrote a post a few months ago about the connection between faith and works, with a focus on James conclusion that faith without works is dead. If you are interested you could probably find it by searching for “James” and “Works” on my site search.

      I look forward to future comments from you. I really do like the way you write and think. I can see the Spirit in what you have to say. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8004. Just some encouragement my friend. Our Lord and Saviour wants to see those people, those family members saved so much more than we do. That pain and desperation you feel was felt in an unfathomable magnitude by Jesus. It comforts me to remember that. Not that I feel you have done this but sometimes I forget the reality of the fact that He died for them too. His body broke for them to come to Him. I find rest in this. He knows my heart and is able to do something about it. I hope that may encourage you sister. Much love in Jesus name.

    Reply

    • Matt, Yes this is encouraging! Thank you. Funny how I am usually the one encouraging in my posts and comments, and now when I need it I receive such encouragement from all of you! Not really funny, I guess, just how God works in His people. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8005. I care as well, because I believe the gate is narrow and the path is straight. Our God is just and will do as he has said. There will be judgement. I do believe however that we are not wholly responsible for our loved ones salvation and sometimes all we can do is pray and trust the Lord to provide a messenger when we have tried and have met resistance. We can be the seeds, but sometimes we are not to be the gardeners. Our push can be too much when we are too close. It is a wonderful thing to bring someone to faith but we are not always blessed to be the ones to do it. Hold fast, keep faith!

    Reply

    • Nancy, Thank you for your encouraging comment. I know that I am not responsible for my loved ones’ salvation, but it is still hard sometimes to care so much. I will hold fast and trust in Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8006. Linda,
    I feel your message and the pain that goes with it loud and clear. I think what it all comes down to is the second greatest commandment, Love thy neighbor as thyself.
    When you love people, you care about their well being, and you want what is best for them. If you see them engaging in dangerous behavior, you try to help them see it for what it is. Sharing Christ with those you love closest and wanting them to have a home in eternity is not a selfish act based on wanting them to be on the same page as you. It is a loving act of wanting those who cannot see clearly to see Salvation, and the urgency of obedience. You are on the right track!
    God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, You put it so well! It is not that I want them to agree, it’s that I want what is best for them. For now, I can only pray that the Father will draw them to His Son and they will see. Thanks for the encouragement. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8007. My heart aches with yours Linda, and I am praying for those in your life to be drawn to Him that don’t know Him yet. This is why I care,too. And that I don’t know how they can go through life here without Him. I did not do well before asking Him into my heart! (understatement) And then, sadly, there is the fact of them living eternally apart from Jesus, if they don’t come to Him before they pass away. And the reality of hell. I wish there wasn’t such a place, but He says there is. I want no one to go there.
    Sorry . . .too long of a comment, but a very close to my heart post! love you, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Your comment is the perfect length and just the right words. I wish there was not such a place as hell, too. But for those who choose not to want to be with God during our brief time on earth He allows them to spend eternity without Him as well. Thank you for your prayers. I am keeping your lost loved ones in my prayers as well. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8008. Ahhh! Thanks SO MUCH, Linda!

    It bugs me to pieces. I think these so called facts are intended to force people’s thinking into a specific direction. The sooner the truth gets out, the better it is for all – Jesus is indeed the only way 🙂

    Thanks again and have a fantastic day!

    blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, When I posted this I had already posted my Friday Recipe, but I read a “statistic” that just bugged me and I couldn’t get this off my mind. I’m glad you found it to be a blessing. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8009. I have been praying for this.
    First for me, for the household, for the clan,
    and it reached now for everyone.
    I’m moved and thankful
    and prayer is just a small act of gratitude
    that might have the greatest impact.
    Thanks for the encouragement Lynda!
    🙂

    Reply

    • Yes, “prayer is just a small act of gratitude” but it unleashes the power of Christ in the lives of those we pray for. Now all I need is patience to wait for the answers! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8010. Linda, this was perfect for me to read at this time. He has impressed on me to pray . . .more . . .and then this! God bless you and thank you for listening to Him and sharing with us. deb

    Reply

  8011. I loved your statistics, which didn’t lie! 🙂 What an awesome post, Linda. God bless you and guide you as you lead us on in Christ! deb

    Reply

  8012. I love the grandma goulash story and recipe! 🙂 I usually make it with left over chili. Hope that didn’t make you cringe! ha! It’s nice to know that I can still learn how to cook. It’s not too late! ha! God bless you and your family!

    Reply

  8013. He and me …. hmmm. Nice. I like it (and there’s nothing lame about it either!)

    Thanks for sharing. Still so much to learn.

    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

    • Ann, Thanks. I’m glad you like it. I don’t know why I have a hard time accepting that I can write poetry. I’ve been doing it off and on for years, but have a hard time feeling really comfortable with it. But then again, out of my comfort zone is often where God leads us so we can grow. Still so much to learn here, too. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8015. Thank you so much Linda. I love the Psalms, and if J of Jerusalem can’t e-mail anything some weeks, this is what I want to do for Sunday, post a psalm. They all always minister to me.
    Also, sometimes when I get to feeling that I’m not doing this blog thing right or the posts are just not coming out that well, He reminds me that it is His word that is going to make a difference anyway. Not mine. phew. Don’t you just love Jesus? I know you do! ha!
    Take care my friend! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Isaiah 55:11 says: “so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” We can never go wrong when we post His Word! 🙂 And yes, I do love Jesus!! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8016. I love your poems! I can understand them and they bless me! 🙂 And your message today is one very close to my heart as well. Praying for Him to help my unbelief, even that which I don’t know about, when I pray. He’s been asking me to pray harder, more, lately. I want to be obedient!

    Reply

  8018. An important question indeed, Linda.

    I am reminded of the saying ” a saint is just a sinner who falls down and gets up and falls down and gets up all the way to heaven!”

    Thanks for sharing. Much to chew on.

    blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  8020. Your honesty is so wonderful, Linda. It’s one of the many things I love about you. I will be asking right with you, because fully committed means 100%, and I can’t say either that I’m on board to that extent all the time. I want to be, I want to say that I am, but I need instead to pray and ask Him to help me be. It reminds me of one of my friend’s goals . . .to give her heart wholly to Him. good goal! Thanks Linda!

    Reply

  8021. I didn’t expect something from you today! Thank you! And thank you for delving into Revelation too. Because I need things simple, I really appreciated how you ended this post. Ultimately, knowing Jesus as our savior is going to be the most important thing. I am going to trust Him to reveal to me what I need to know each day as I go along. 🙂 God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I was supposed to write this yesterday, but my son had friends over to practice for a talent contest and so I didn’t get it done. I’m glad you found it helpful. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Ann, Thanks for stopping by. I post a new recipe every Friday as a little something different from my usual posts. Though Deb says the recipes fit right in with the rest! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8023. Hi Linda,

    Thanks much for visiting 🙂

    The theme as to who God is to us has been ringing in my head lately (inspired by different ministers teaching on the love / grace of God).
    They basically said that if we knew who God was and how much He loved us, we would stop kicking / fighting / pushing back and allow ourselves to fall back on His open arms.
    I guess it’s safe to say I’m still learning. Thanks for the reminder. Grace indeed gives us what we don’t deserve.
    Blessings,
    ann

    Reply

  8024. Thanks for the fresh string bean info! I’m not sure my hubby will do rice . . .at all . . .but I’m going to ask. I love these that encompass meat and veggies all at once. 🙂 Your guys are so blessed to have you cooking for them! Maybe they could add a blessing to the cook next meal time together. 🙂 love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Rice-a-Roni isn’t just rice, it has pasta in it, too. So maybe he would go for it? I am so blessed that my guys love just about anything I cook. They aren’t picky at all! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8025. This sounds really yummy. I’ve always been a huge fan of rice stuffs of all kinds. Are you using fresh string beans? Frozen?

    Reply

  8026. I love this Linda. 🙂 So opposite the usual “why me” we send up. Thank you so much for reminding us how much He loves us and that there is nothing else like His love.

    Reply

    • Deb, So true! Isn’t our usual “why me” just so much whining? I absolutely love this song, and when I think of all the trouble and turmoil Johnny Cash went through in his life, but he could sing this song and appreciate God’s love so much, I figure I should too. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8027. What a wonderful truth! I noticed the same thing as I have been reading through the Old Testament. Over and over they rejected Him, but every single time they turned to Him, He forgave them and helped them. That has been such an encouragement to me. I wandered far from Him a few years ago and I got to the point that I despaired of His love. I don’t know how He can love a sinner like myself, but I am thankful He does. Thank you for this!

    Reply

  8028. Thank you for reminding us of the unfailing love of God, that calls us back to Him. 🙂 And also in it, you spoke too of His love for Israel, which remains today. 🙂 God bless you and cover you in His love! deb

    Reply

  8029. I loved this! 🙂 It made me feel more peaceful just reading it. I’ve had a couple of situations here, that tried to steal that peace . . .so this was perfect. These things will pass, but He will never pass away or leave me. My Peace stays! God bless you friend!

    Reply

  8030. Happy anniversary Linda’
    Your blog has blessed me every since I began reading it, and I appreciate your deep and thought provoking lessons. It is amazing how God continues to give you fresh subjects daily to write about. I hope your blog goes on for many years to come. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8031. Linda,
    Peace means everything to me, it is something I seek often, have often, but sometimes still escapes me. I am thankful that you end every comment with a peace offering. Worry is so common today, the peace that the Lord supplies is priceless. I am grateful for your posts.
    God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8033. Loved this Linda! Especially the do it again and again and again part. Yes! Because so often I will think that I’m not worried, but then isn’t stress kind of the same thing? And I’ll find myself stressing . . .and going to Jesus again and again and again. 🙂
    God bless you for taking us to Jesus with our worries!

    Reply

  8034. Happy Anniversary Linda…Your blog has been a great inspiration to me in many ways…and as you said…the most wonderful thing about this year is that the relationship we all share in Christ…and that is just wonderful.

    May God use you abundanlty in the coming years and let this blog be a blessing to many in need…and this is my prayer that in the coming year..God will guide you to different exciting spiritual paths that you have never travelled before..

    God Bless,

    Rani

    Reply

  8035. this is a good harvest
    from the post to the comments!
    planted were pear and peas
    and grown into a soul for harvest.
    ‘we may not be the one
    to actually reap the harvest..’
    but in love we lovingly sow
    for we all know
    that ‘the harvest was His’.
    thank you all sow much!
    🙂

    Reply

  8037. Happy Anniversary! I have really enjoyed reading your blog over the last several months. Keep up the good work! Reading what other Christians like you write is really encouraging and helpful to me. Thanks!

    Reply

  8038. Happy Happy Anniversary and Bloggy Birthday to you! You are so right, you are doing good here . . .His good will. Praying for you many years ahead, as long as He directs it. I am one who has been blessed and nurtured by your posts and by you. Thank you friend! love, deb

    Reply

  8039. Thank you so much for this salad! 🙂 I always make the same things, you know? And sometimes I need a something different on the side than my usual. We suffer from side dish burn-out. ha! You are a blessing in soooo many ways! God bless! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I hope you like this one. It’s easy and if you are missing an ingredient or two, it’s still good. I must confess, however, that as I am putting all my usual recipes up here I’m afraid I might run out! I tend to make the same things, too, which is why I can type up these recipes without even thinking about it. I make them so often they are ingrained in my head. In fact, tonight we are have Texas Skillet Dinner. 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8041. I love these analogues. “We must be ready for whatever soul harvest is ripe at any given time.” -what a great quote and a great truth. I had never thought about the harvest like that before. Another way to look at it is from the angle of Paul when he said something like “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.” Sometimes we may not be the one to actually reap the harvest, but we might sow the seed or water the young plant. But it is all leading toward the harvest. I’ll stop rambling, but thank you so much for this great thought. I’ll be thinking about this for a while now.

    Reply

    • Ben, I like the quote from Paul, too. I tend to be a planter and waterer, but as Deb said, the harvest is His and will come in His time. And I don’t mind your rambling comments. I tend to leave those kind myself. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8042. Thank you, Linda, for talking more in depth about harvesting! 🙂 That really blessed me, to think about the different times of harvest, and different lengths of opportunity and just being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. 🙂
    My aha moment was realizing that it said the harvest was His.
    God bless you as you harvest for Him! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I was just amazed at how God led me from one harvest analogy to another. It started with the pea combine, and then off I went following His lead. I even have the start of another post about harvesting berries that didn’t quite fit with the rest. So glad you got me started on this! 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8043. I’m so thankful for all the great friends God has given you and for the great friend you are to them . . .and to me! 🙂 I haven’t been able to have more than long distance friendships for quite awhile. But then here this month, God has brought me back into the life of a friend, in a very flexible understanding way, and I’m in tears as I read this. God is so good to me and so are my friends! God bless you and your friends, Linda!

    Reply

  8044. Linda,
    This reminds me of something our pastor told us a few weeks ago. After every great acheivement/victory, there will be a great temptation to follow. You are in my prayers daily anyway, but I will pray a special prayer that he will surround you and protect you from those that attack. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8046. I loved praying that too. I should know by now about after mountain top experiences . . .what happens. At least, it does to me. So I need to prepare, but I forget. Praying for you, for this tough week, knowing that He is with you and holding you close, no matter what it feels like at times.
    I had a really beautiful God thing happen today . . .then I totally forgot to pick up a med refill for Aubrey. So we will have to miss giving it to her tonight and it’s one of 3 she takes for seizures. argh! I’m praying for Him to cover us until I can get it in her tomorrow. and still praising Him for the blessing today! Thank you, Linda, for all the ways you bless us and keep it real here, living life for Jesus. love, deb

    Reply

  8047. Linda,
    Wow, I often think the same thing, am so bothered by all of the divisions in Christ’s church today. Why is it that when we meet someone from down the street, and they state they are a Christian, the first question is where do you go to church? How may I classify you, to which group do you belong. Yet when someone from China defects to America, and declares their faith as a Christ follower, we don’t ask if they are Baptist, presbeterian, Calvary, or any other. We are just glad they are saved. When you have to risk your life to worship Christ, you don’t have time for semantics and squabbling over whet each person thinks is the most important doctrine to adopt. You study, pray, sing and worship. God bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8048. I love your excitement and experience of being united in Christ! If it can happen through Beth Moore’s bible studies, it can happen at other times too . . .all the time! Hope you stay on that mountain just a little longer . . .it’s so contagious! You pull us up with you! love, deb

    Reply

  8049. What a great thought! Just take each individual thought and choice captive and give it to Christ. I think this is a truth that will really simplify peoples’ lives if they will take it to heart. Of course, when I say “people”, I mean myself. 🙂

    Reply

  8050. What a profound and inspiring post! That is a great attitude for me to endeavor to take throughout the day. It reminds me of the advice Eli gave to young Samuel to answer the Lord’s call: “Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.”

    Reply

  8051. I think I’m going to have to try this one on my hubby! You are giving me such great ideas. 🙂 He is very particular. Very. ha! Maybe I could add bacon to this one, just in case. 🙂 love you! Thanks! And have a great weekend.

    Reply

  8052. I think you wrote this just for me. 🙂 You have encouraged me so much in this . . .for eating and just everything that I find overwhelming to do, but really needs to be done. One thing that I keep failing at is getting healthier foods for me in the house. I forget! Get stuff for everyone else and then think I won’t eat it, will just not eat at all , I guess! ha! Tomorrow we have to go to the store. I will purpose to get me some of my favorite fruits and veggies!
    Also, this method worked really well for me in regards to my thought life. For when I would not say anything, but have negative or unhealthy thoughts. Jesus really was wonderful about helping with that and I know He will this too, if I let Him and ask Him to!
    God bless you! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, This is actually one I really wrote for me, but I must confess I did think of you when I was writing. 🙂 It’s one of those things I know, but just have not done consistently. Several times lately my son has asked if I want some ice cream in the evening, but I tell him we don’t have any in the house. It is much easier for me to just not buy it at the store (a single choice) than to not eat it every night until the carton is gone! I think this is the answer to the prayer we have been praying for each other. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8057. I love, love, love this! How I praise Him for the way He leads you so you can teach us, research things out, and yes, verily, have us say amen in a new light of understanding . . .as a way to start our day with Him! God bless you and continue giving you the wisdom you need each day to accomplish the work He gives you to do! deb

    Reply

    • JD, Thanks! God has given each of us different gifts to share His love and grace. Yours is clearly poetry, my is logical analysis and prose. In both He is glorified. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8059. Thank you for sharing about your family time . . .both of them! 🙂 It just makes me smile. I didn’t get to be with family, but today my daughter and I went to a friend’s house. This friend has a very full and busy household, along with many outside pets. Aubrey loves animals, so we’ve finally got a time figured out to go and spend time there, understanding that my friend may or may not be able to be with us. 🙂 Today it worked out that she got to talk to us a little and it was wonderful! Then, a new neighbor and her daughter stopped by tonight, selling articles to raise money for school activities. I’m not sure what I bought, but loved getting to talk to them a little, instead of just waving at them across the street! 🙂 God bless you, Linda, for sharing family times with us! deb

    Reply

  8061. i think this answer the question that i have on my mind ever since. i am a baby Christian (see, even the term sounds inappropriate)and i have been respectful of each other’s belief. respectful — meaning that i don’t believe in religion but on one’s good thoughts and actions. while reading, i thought, ‘so this is who i am. a relativist, not a Christian’. in the end, i can say that i don’t practice Absolute tolerance because i believe that we can only be saved through the acceptance of Jesus Christ. if my declaration is conflicting and sounds confusing, maybe it is. admittedly i have so much to know and learn. and i am trying to grow that i may not attach that ‘baby’ label anymore. for all that have been said, what i really mean is’HELP’
    🙂

    Reply

    • bendedsppon, Thanks for the comment. We are all at different places in our journey with and understanding of God. It took me a long time to get to where I am now in my faith and my absolute trust in Jesus. It took reading the Bible, reading about other religions and about Christianity. As you may have guessed from my comments on your blog (which I love, by the way), I have been greatly influenced in my thinking by reading C.S. Lewis. God gave us all a brain and I think we have to use it to help understand Him, though we must also seek Him with our heart. There are still times, however, that I am confused about things and don’t understand our world. Some things I don’t ever want to truly understand, like hatred. But love I understand, and the love of God shown to us through Jesus life, death, and resurrection is the greatest thing of all. If you have specific questions about Christianity, I’d be happy to try to answer them. I’m not saying I have all the answers, but I can give you my perspective and how I arrived at it. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • thank you Linda for this one!
        so good to know someone
        who has a deep knowledge
        and understanding
        of the things i have yet to understand.
        🙂

  8062. Linda . . .I thought this was great. I love how you think and reason, and this makes very good sense to me, in a way that respects others. God bless you! Thank you for doing something relevant to the day. And may He be with you as you answer any and all comments that may come. In Jesus name . . .deb

    Reply

  8063. I’m sure you know that a decent portion of the Bible, as well as the words of Jesus, are part of the Koran. As to the differences, there aren’t nearly as many compared to the differences between Christianity and Judaism.

    Reply

    • K, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I am aware that there are similarities and differences both between Islam and Christianity and between Judaism and Christianity. That was my point, that a person should not negate the differences but look at them honestly in coming to a personal conclusion as to what is the Truth. The differences are significant and important to consider. They have, I believe, eternal consequences. But in considering the differences, we should all treat each other with respect. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8064. I love your recipe Fridays! 🙂 I’m making spaghetti tonight too . . .but read this too late to try the turkey meatballs. You are a good cook, I can tell! Thank you for helping stir me up some in the cooking department, and spiritually as well! love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m a good cook when I stay focused on my cooking. Of late, I have burned a few things while frying because I get distracted by blogs and Facebook and such. Which is why I bake the meatballs! 😉 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Beth, Seeing your comment made me smile! 🙂 It is good to hear from you. I’m glad this post encouraged you on your own trip through the valley. You continue to be in my prayers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8066. Linda,

    Thank you so much for explaining that thought..Just yesterday after writing that thought, I was listening to a sermon in my native language which talked about Psalms 23 and the preacher was saying the same…we are passing ‘through’ and not lying down in the valley of death…God has provided green pastures for us to lie down. I was so surprised to see you comment on the same in my blog…I guess Holy Spirit wanted to confirm that thought to me in His special way…Thank you for explaining it to me so beautifully…

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, I am just glad you got me thinking about this, because in writing this post God took me a little further in my understanding of how we get through the valley. I love how He uses all of the body of Christ, working together, to help us all walk a closer walk with Him. Without your initial post, I don’t believe this one would have come to me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8067. Thanks,Linda, for taking Rani’s post a little farther. I too, am encouraged by the fact that we’re not taking up residence in the valley . . .even when it feels like it. 🙂 So, so thankful that He is with us and neither would I dare not go through this, knowing He has a plan and purpose for it.

    Reply

    • Deb, It does, indeed, sometimes feel like we taken up permanent residence in the valley. But God is faithful with His promises and so we can be assured that one day we will emerge on the other side. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad you found something useful in this post. I wasn’t feeling terribly focused when I wrote it. There are some puzzling things in 1 Chronicles, like why did David have so many sons by so many women? I’m not sure I’m up for the puzzling this week, so needed some motivation myself to keep reading this book. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8069. It’s so easy sometimes to let the “thieves” come in and steal the abundant life that God has promised us. I need to rely on Him more every day because like you said, “the price for our full and abundant life has already been paid.” What a great thought!
    In Christ,
    Ben

    Reply

  8072. Thank you for talking to us and teaching on the abundant life. 🙂 Today, I’ve been at the scripture you used from Matthew, asking, praying, listening for what He wants to tell me. God bless you, Linda!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are welcome. This has been on my mind for a few days. I was going to write about marriage today, because today is my 24th Anniversary, but nothing was coming together on that. Asking, praying, and listening are good. We all need to do more of that! Especially the listening part. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8073. I was meditating on this the other day. The abundant life in Christ has a lot of everything. Once you have settled the issue of what you are living for, you roll your sleeves up and get in the yoke with Jesus and start plowing. There is a lot of hard work, great reward, problems, victories, persecutions and many other states of being, some good, some harder. The thing is that they are in abundance. As long as I do not make the problems my own, the burden is light.

    One of my favorite scriptures, or at least one that I use often in ministry is, Were the trough is clean there are no Oxen, but by the strength of an ox comes much increase. In other words if you do a lot of plowing you will have to feed a lot of oxen. Well, you know what happens when you feed oxen. You could easily replace ox with bull and then you understand why not everyone wants to be in ministry. LOL.

    Reply

    • Troy, Thanks for the comment. Yes, the abundant life does sometimes include an abundance of hard work, but the rewards are well worth it! Even just this blog ministry can be a lot of work sometimes, and there are days I don’t want to write, but most of the time the Holy Spirit gives me something to day. And when He doesn’t, it’s because I didn’t ask and I’m trying to do it myself! Anyway, it’s good to hear from you. Keep up the good work for His kingdom. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8074. Ambassadors sounds really official, doesn’t it? What a wonderful message and also a notice of what we are to do, once Christ’s. We had a youth group once called LAMB . . .the Lord’s Ambassador’s Moving Boldly. 🙂 God bless you and take care! love, deb

    Reply

  8075. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10.

    My favorite verse . . . and point well made.

    Reply

    • Mike, It’s one of my favorites, too. Although anything in John can qualify as “my favorite verse” on any given day. Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Eden, It will be turning cool here soon, too. But we do have sun again today! Yet I think the leaves already have changing color in mind. Thanks for stopping by. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8078. This is quite lovely Linda – you have highlighted one fundamental fact that is we are all the same under the skin! Love it – and putting it on the blog now. Thanks:)

    Reply

  8079. This sounds so good! I’m really thankful for your Friday recipe days! 🙂 And I loved the part about making it for your son, while you can. When my oldest comes for a weekend, I get to do things for her again. I tell her I know she can do them, but thanks for letting me “play mom”. ha! Have a great weekend. Praying for you some rest from the pain . . .deb

    Reply

  8080. I’m so glad, Linda! 🙂 I have alot of the mundane in my life, and need the Holy Spirit for that, so I can do it with an attitude that pleases Him! 🙂 God bless you and thank you for this Holy Spirit post! deb

    Reply

  8083. Linda,
    Great devotion, I LOVE when people write about the Holy Spirit as it is so vital to our walk. You are in my prayers everyday, as is our little group, but I will add the pain plea too. I understand the pain thing too. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, I’m glad you enjoyed the devotion. I know I would be sunk without the Holy Spirit, but I think many well-meaning Christians fail to draw on that power and try to do it all themselves. As for the pain, I think it keeps me humble and relying on God, but I could do with a little less of it. Thanks for the prayers. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8084. Linda I love your analytical mind! 🙂 How you put this all together. . .wonderful! I was encouraged by Jesus getting all the glory and honor from what we do. I love that. And how it is the Holy Spirit’s job to enable us to do what we are called to do. This was packed with great insights!

    Now . .. if it’s okay to ask, are you okay? Why the sleep study test? I will pray! Love how God works. You come away with a devotion from it all. 🙂

    Blessings and love, deb

    Reply

    • Deb, As always, thanks for the encouragement. It is by the Holy Spirit that I am able to come away with a devotion from the circumstances in my life. As for the sleep study, just trying to get to the bottom of long-standing pain issues from fibromyalgia. I’m actually doing okay now, but trying to prevent a major pain flare up like I had 2 winters ago. Thanks for the prayers. They are appreciated, and I know God hears and will answer them. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8085. Linda,
    In my reading this morning, Grace seems to be the underlying message in most all of the blogs. He does love us as a shepherd loves his flock. Another thing you said really hit home for ma also, when you said “I needed to know that I can cry out to God and say “Please don’t give up on me” it struck a chord with me. When Israel did evil in the eyes of the Lord, He would allow them to face persecution in order that they might be driven back to Him. Only then they “cried out” would he come to their rescue and lay waste to those who were persecuting them.

    I am a firm believer that my God had never and will never change, He is the same God that gave a child to the elderly Abraham and Sarah, and He is the same God that awaits us to “cry out” to Him for deliverance. Thanks for this Linda!
    God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, I agree. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow! I was reading more Psalms last night as I was getting ready to go to sleep. The theme of foregiveness was throughout the ones I read. Many people think the God of the Old Testament is somehow different from Jesus in the New Testament, but the same mercy, grace, forgiveness, and love are there from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21, and they are still evident in His love for us today! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8086. I loved this Linda! Loved that He had you read it again, in a different translation. (And now I am wondering about reading other translations aside from the one I have!) “Please don’t give up on me” sounds so much like my prayers to Him, more personal to me. And something that I am so thankful for, that He doesn’t, each day . . .even when I want to give up on myself.
    Thank you and God bless!

    Reply

  8087. Just reading this makes my heart cry out for all my family and friends who haven’t made that eternal choice yet. I like how you put that . . .about if they were headed for a cliff, would we just say nothing? May God give us the words, the actions and the timing, to help keep them from falling without hope. love you! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I always pray that the Father will draw them to the Son. Jesus said, “For no one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them to me, and at the last day I will raise them up.” John 6:44. I’ve been including your husband in that prayer lately. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8088. As a man, I can officially affirm the statement “if you put bacon in it, men will eat it.” My wife said she will make this one soon. And I will eat any left-over bacon. 🙂

    Reply

    • Okay, now I’m laughing!! Thanks, Ben, for the affirmation. I know my husband loves this soup, and he’s not usually one to like soup as a main dish, but this one suffices. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8089. Linda . . .you are making me want to cook. And that’s a good thing. 🙂 I make potato soup, but it is not nearly as elaborate as this. Now, the question is, will my husband eat it if I change the recipe? hmmmmm . . .food for thought! God bless you and thank you for helping me, in my walk with Jesus and in the kitchen! deb

    Reply

  8090. What a great idea to have those cards at work, to help you through with just a glance at them. And look at this wonderful post that came about through you doing that!
    Then there is this . . .I am doing this writing challenge and have been trying to rewrite a prose poem about beauty. I’ve really been lost at trying to express what’s in my heart. (plus, I don’t usually do prose poems, don’t know how to, so am extra lost!) Here you talk about beauty in the way I wanted to grasp. 🙂 Thank you so much, Linda, for lifting up Jesus for us to see His beauty, grace and love.

    Reply

    • Deb, I know He will give you the right words for your prose poem challenge. You’re never truly lost when you follow the Spirit of God! I’m glad this post gave you some inspiration. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Deb, It is an easy choice for me. I love the way John is written, with so many of the words of Jesus himself, especially all the “I am” statements. I love the others, too, but John is my favorite. I don’t think I would say your inability to choose leaves you “hopeless” but rather “full of hope!” 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8092. Linda,
    We were studying faith this past week, and determined that faith does not operate in the realm of the possible. When operating in the realm of the impossible God’s work can be seen more clearly, if we are looking. Thank you for this great post sister.
    God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8093. I’m so glad He had you thinking about the Holy Spirit, so you could share this with us. I love that – full assurance. It’s that in us that no one or nothing can shake. Thank you Linda, for such great teachings and essays, powered by the Holy Spirit! 🙂

    Reply

  8094. After reading and rereading I think I agree with you.
    I don’t think the Kingdom was inside the Pharisees but it certainly was “among” them. 🙂
    Really enjoyed this,thanks.

    Reply

  8095. I am so glad you came back to this, in that awesome way you have. And, I’m so glad that you talked about the aspect of Kingdom living for now and not as something that we have to wait for. 🙂 God bless you! deb

    Reply

  8098. Most of my ministry platform is based on living for the rewards of the age to come. God has promised to blow our minds with what we receive on the Day. We are ambassadors of the coming kingdom , not just of salvation. Salvation is the door that gains you entry into the Kingdom, but the Kingdom is much more vast than the entrance. Nice blog post!

    Reply

    • Troy, My goal for this blog ministry is to be led by the Spirit each day to share what He deems important. Sometimes that is to focus on the Kingdom of Heaven, sometimes on His Kingship within the heart of each believer. Glad you liked the post. I’ve been enjoying the blogging and sharing His grace, mercy, and power with others. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8099. This is such a beautiful reminder. And so helpful for me today. I am not struggling so much myself, but am struggling with others’ troubles, not wanting them to hurt and go through the things that are happening to them at this time. God has used this to encourage me, so that I can stay a steadying friend, listening and caring and praying, but also knowing these hard times are temporary. God bless you and hug you for me today!

    Reply

  8100. Linda,
    That is a wonderful passage of encouragement to us and I cannot thank God enough for placing you in my life. Thank you for being for this message today and I pray the same for you too!
    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

  8102. Linda! Thank you so much for recipe Friday! I always need new ideas, and this sounds like a great one. And I think it fits great too. After all, your blog is about “faith, life, family, music and whatever else crosses your mind.” 🙂 God bless you for sharing this! deb

    Reply

    • Eden, Being an encourager is one of the gifts God has given me, and I try to use it to glorify Him as much as possible. It’s easy when I have found so many great bloggers, like you, to encourage. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8104. Well, you’ve got me in tears. Thank you for that wonderful prayer from Philippians and the beautiful example of Christian love for one another. I am praying it right back for you, in love and friendship and in Jesus, deb

    Reply

  8105. I find that as I draw nearer to Christ I do long to meditate on the Scriptures. I know this is of God because I personally do not desire to read the Bible because I cannot understand it, but with the Holy Spirit’s help it begins to make sense. Just like the promises made in Psalm 1- it is only through my relationship with Christ that any of this is possible. Thanks Linda for this reminder!

    Reply

    • Beth, I am so encouraged by your comment that what I am writing here is worthwhile, and I am glad that you are drawing nearer to Christ! Praise God for His great mercy. I know what you mean about personally not desiring to read the Bible. I was the same way, but now He draws me to His word and helps me to understand how it applies to my life. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8106. I love how you presented that, and showed Christ as our righteousness, that we can be planted and grow. And to remain standing, because of Him. 🙂 Thank you for blessing me so! deb

    Reply

  8107. Linda,
    Thank you for this wonderful message about prayer and sin. Yes, the more we pray, the less we sin and the vice versa is true for me too! That is why I have to ensure I wake up with enough time to spend my hour on my knees praying, reading the word and studying it, else I am drawn away by the lures of this world 🙁 Why am I a dog’s tail in terms of my faith and my selfishness? I praise God for the wisdom He has showered up on you and I pray that you will continue directing us to Him always.
    In Christ,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, The Lord has been trying to get me up earlier for years, but I am not much of a morning person. I do spend at least 15 minutes in quiet prayer on my knees each morning, and I have discovered lately that I have a hard time ending with “Amen.” I think it is because I don’t want the prayer time, the communication with God, to end when I stand up, and saying Amen seems like an ending.

      As for you being “a dog’s tail,” this reminded me of when Paul wrote “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” Romans 7:15. You are in good company, my friend, but as long as you are always desiring and striving to give Christ all control, like Paul you will win the race set before you. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8108. Wonderful call to prayer, Linda. No wonder Paul told us to pray without ceasing! There is a humbleness that comes when we pray, that can’t be wrought in our lives any other way. It is as important to us as the air we breathe. God bless you as you lift His name, deb

    Reply

  8109. at some point in our lives we all fear
    that things won’t be better
    or we are not good at all
    to please all

    then we come to realize
    why want to please all
    when all we need is to please the One
    then maybe all will be pleased — one by one
    🙂

    Reply

  8110. Linda . . .I’m so glad you saved those poems, to share with us and to show and know the changes God has brought about in your life. I’m so thankful too, that I went ahead and started a blog, not over thinking it and talking myself out of it, for fear I just wasn’t good enough. Because we both decided to step out of our fear, we have met each other! 🙂 And I am blessed by that! God bless you always! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, If nothing else had come of this blog but meeting you, it would have been worth the risk! But I have been blessed so much more, and know the blessings will only continue. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8111. Boy, Linda, what a day! None of this sounded like complaining to me, just the facts. I love the good things you thought of to counter all the bad! That is an awesome witness right there. And that Third Day song playing on the way in . . .so like Jesus to do that. Hope you have a calmer, may I even say boring, weekend after today! Blessings and love, deb

    Reply

  8112. I love that thought. I know that I have failed Him miserably many, many times. But it is encouraging to see that He doesn’t stop loving us and He doesn’t reject us when we come to Him for forgiveness. I know that my failures have helped me to be more forgiving and understanding with others. Great post!

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  8114. I always know I need to seek forgiveness when I’m having trouble forgiving others and am getting too critical. He often shows me the very thing that I’m critical of in myself. Ouch! But I’m glad He does that, so I can turn and seek Him and be in right relationship with others and Himself! God bless you , Linda!

    Reply

  8115. Thank you, Linda, for sounding the call. I often think of the things God asked those prophets to do . . . surely, then, I can do the tasks He asks of me if it would help even one person repent and come to Him. God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m planning on attending Third Day worship sessions there, and singing along with Johnny Cash, too! I’m sure the music is going to be beyond awesome! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8117. Linda . . .I’m sooooo glad to have you back. But glad you found God in NY too! I love that He was with you and got you back home safely. Take care sweet tired achy friend! 🙂

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks! It’s good to be back home and back on the blog. I missed writing every day, but just didn’t have the time or energy to do it while in NY. Can’t wait to get caught up on all my favorite blogs, too! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8118. Hi Linda- that is one thing I always look forward to when I am on vacation. I enjoy going to church and meeting “family that I haven’t met yet.” It’s such a joy anytime you can be with others who share your faith and love Jesus Christ! God bless,
    Ben

    Reply

  8119. Oh Linda. . .I have felt that at times when everything is going wrong and I just wanted to do a simple something! Thank you for the encouragement to persevere! and I loved the ending part about being in the right line! 🙂 perfect! love, deb

    Reply

  8120. Deb, Thanks. My conference is over and now I’m on vacation with my family in NYC, which is why I haven’t been posting. Today we went to Coney Island. Peace, Linda

    Reply

  8121. What an incredible, absolutely mind-boggling concept–the God of heaven, Creator of eternity, cares enough about my (our) tears that He knows and remembers–Paul and Timothy, both, minister with tears! Maybe that’s the “course” we didn’t take in Seminary! Tears 101! Why would a holy, sinless, glorious God be mindful and care about the tears of “grass-hoppers” (Isa. 40:22)? The child in the grocery store today who was crying, actually more like screaming, got absolutely no attention from the parent! Our God, always righteous and wise, might say NO, but He never forgets our tears or why we have them! Blessings, Kirk

    Reply

    • Kirk, Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice comment. I like your scenario about the crying child. How often do we find no one on earth who cares about our tears? But God does. Mind-boggling indeed. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8123. Thank you Linda! Great post and I love when God drops a connection like that into your day, right where you are at and in the middle of what you are doing! Thank you for sharing your knowledge of Him with us, that we can grow and know Him more too! 🙂 God bless you! deb

    Reply

  8124. What a great thought. I always like the quote from Karl Barth, who, after a lifetime of studying the Bible and the great doctrines, summed it all up by saying “Jesus love me, this I know for the Bible tells me so”. I have definitely been at the “I’ve messed up one too many times and God won’t forgive me” and “God couldn’t love someone who can’t get their life in order and live right all the time” points in life. But I’m glad that He does still love me. A truly amazing thought! Thanks!

    Reply

  8125. God bless you, Linda! 🙂 I’m so thankful that He pardoned me, but just as thankful that He changes me, even consumes me. (I could hear that song being sung as I read the words.) Love, deb

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  8126. Oh thank you, Linda! This is real simple . . .right down my alley, and oh so what I need to remember when the accuser comes calling. Have you ever read 3:16 by Max Lucado? I loved that book! Loaned it to a friend and it never came back. Will just have to get me another one! 🙂 God bless you and love on you! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I love Max Lucado, but haven’t read 3:16. I might have to check it out. Hopefully your loaned copy went right where it was supposed to go to be read by just the person who needed it! Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • I agree! It is really the most important thing a person can know, that God is love and that He loves us. To truly know this and keep it close to your heart makes all the difference in the world. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8128. Linda,
    How funny, I thought you read “a” book on Jonah, not “the” book of Jonah. Larry Who wrote a book called Jonah and I thought thats what you were talking about. Silly me. Anyway, very good post. Here is the link to the book I was talking about. God Bless
    Jim
    http://jonah08.wordpress.com/

    Reply

  8129. Linda, I was really blessed by the part that it may not turn out the way we think it should, but it will achieve His purposes. 🙂 That same message, pretty closely, came to me in another blog today . . .His purposes will prevail. Very encouraging!!! It also makes me feel that I can’t mess up too badly, as long as I am trying to do what He asks. (that’s probably my biggest fear, just that I will mess up, make things worse.)
    Thank you for your faithfulness to Him and us! deb

    Reply

  8130. Linda,
    Is this Larry’s Book? I want to read it too. You are so right though, most of the time the stickler with us is the whole fear of rejection thing. I agree we need give God a chance to work, and if we are silent he doesn’t get the chance. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, Not sure what you mean by Larry’s Book. But this was inspired by two messages God has put on my heart for friends. One is a believer who needs peace, the other a non-believer who needs to understand her need for grace. I’m hoping that by writing this I will actually say what it is I need to say. Peace, Linda

      Reply

      • Linda, Larry Who is writing a book called Jonah. I don’t think it’s done yet, or out yet though. That’s what Jim was thinking of in his comment, instead of the actual book of Jonah, from the Old Testament. 🙂

      • Thanks for the clarification. I thought Jim might be talking about Larry Who, but didn’t know Larry was writing a book called Jonah. I was actually reading Jonah in the Bible! lol. 🙂 Peace, Linda

  8131. Linda,

    I’m reading your blog after many days…Feels good to be back…I saw your pictures in facebook…I could really see the excitement…and got the full picture of it after reading the post…I’m glad that you could worship God in spite of all those imperfect moments…Worship Him out of true love..and thats when He is pleased..

    I’m sorry that I cud not reply to your comments in my blog…I request your continous prayer for me and my family.

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, No worries about not responding to my comments. That’s not why I post them! You have been on my heart and in my prayers quite a bit lately, and I am sure will continue to be. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8133. Linda,
    Sounds like it was a great time. Third Day is a great band, and I am glad you got to see them again. I am a rocker of old, I grew up on Van Halen and AC/DC, but I actually swore off of all secular music about a year ago, so my Christian rock mixes are really important to me;-) Glad you wrote about this. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, I grew up on AC/DC, Van Halen, Quiet Riot, Led Zeppelin, and mostly hard rock, too. I still listen to some of it some of the time, but about 90% of the music I listen to now is Christian rock, and Third Day is my favorite. Did you see my pics on Facebook? Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8134. I was waiting for this! You know, I think I loved that it wasn’t perfect even more than if it was. Because, well, daily life just isn’t perfect. I like them being real, real people who love Jesus and rock for Him. And I like you being real too, prepared with questions that you just couldn’t ask. I doubt I could’ve gotten one out! ha!
    Oh . . .about those cookies and ice-cream. hmmm. That would’ve been a better comment from me to Rani! 😉
    Love you! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I love that it wasn’t perfect, too. They are so real! The one other question I really wish I had asked was what I could pray for them. Being on the road so much has to be difficult, and even more challenging when the bus breaks down!

      By the way, there were 3 cookies on my desk when I wrote that comment. Now I gotta go fix the two errors I found in this post. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8135. Thank you so much Linda, for researching that! Love it! I’m in Exodus, so I had just read that third day scripture. 🙂 God bless you as you help us learn and praise Him more! deb

    Reply

  8136. Linda
    It is amazing when you seek His peace and guidance as you go off into an adversarial situation, and he guides us, places the words in our mouths. If I leave my pride behind and just let Him handle it all, it actually seems like a miracle. I am very encouraged by this post as I am with all you write, You give the power and glory to Him. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, I am glad that what I write is an enouragement and glorifies God. This kind of post can be difficult for me to write because I don’t know who will read it and what they will read into it regarding the situation I am referring to. It’s always a challenge to share the underlying message of God’s deliverance – which is the important thing – without focusing on the specifics of my particular situation – which are really not important at all. Thanks for your kind words that also encourage me to continue in my God-given role of encourager. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8137. What a wonderful post and advice to read in the Psalms when facing opposition. 🙂 Something we all have to face at times. I love how He came through for you. It makes me want to dance and sing! Thank you, Linda, and God be with you always! love, deb

    Reply

  8138. Thank you, Linda, for such an encouraging word! So thankful that I have Him and His word to fuel me up. I can’t even look up ahead without looking to Him first! And, I wanted to thank you for posting your picture too. I absolutely love getting to “see” you! 🙂 yours, deb

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  8141. Linda,
    Great lesson on sticking together. There is strength in numbers if we travel that way. I cannot imagine going it alone on my Spiritual walk with God. I appreciate this lesson-much. God Bless
    Jim

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  8142. I love the visual image this gives us, Linda! Sticking close to Jesus and each other gives us a confidence and an accountability. all at the same time. I need both! And I love the convoy that He has hand picked for me! Thank you so much for walking with me and with Jesus! deb

    Reply

  8143. Linda,
    I’ve often sat at God’s feet and wondered what kind of amazing love He has for us that even though we constantly fail Him, He never fails to be with us. God’s mercies are new every morning and that is something I’m left counting on everytime I come before God because I know there is so much in me that needs cleansing. Thank you for this powerful reminder and I praise God for you son who certainly has His heart set on God and His ways.
    Blessings,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, In many ways my son is a typical teenage boy, but sometimes these pearls of wisdom come from his mouth and I just have to marvel at how the Holy Spirit has taken hold of his heart. I also wonder at God’s amazing love when I fail him over and over. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8144. That is a great thought! The Lord has shown me so much mercy that I should always be willing to show it to others. I am very thankful that He is a God of mercy!
    In Christ,
    Ben

    Reply

  8145. Linda,
    How happy you must be to have a son who thinks that way. Mercy is 180 degrees out from what our human nature suggests. Payback, retribution, and vengeance are what come natural for me. That is where the “dying to self” thing comes in daily, and realizing that if I got what I deserved, I would burn for eternity. Thanks for this great lesson, God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8146. I really needed this tonight, Linda. Really. Sometimes dealing with my daughter can get a bit much for me. It requires patience, yes, but even more I can see it’s about mercy. I have to not address things that my flesh wants to judge. Thank you for reminding how great His mercy is towards me. Surely I can be merciful to those He has entrusted me with. Love, deb

    Reply

  8147. Linda,

    Thank you for that wonderful post…To be grateful in the midst of pain and suffering is something God is teaching me…and I’m learning…still learning. Many a things we take for granted and forget that they are given to us for the glory of God…This world in which people always concentrate on things we do not have…its our responsibilty to make it a practise to thank God and others for the things that we have already recieved…Most importantly…for the salvation. Thank you Linda…Your post really hit on target..

    Love,
    Rani

    Reply

  8148. Linda,
    This was such an uplifting post sister, it reminds me of an old hymn we used to sing when I was a kid. “Count your blessings name them one by one, count your blessings see what God has done”. The Joy you feel is because you are grateful to God for what he has done in your life. This will also cause all of us to begin thinking about it and counting our blessings too. God Bless you and your family Linda
    Jim

    Reply

  8149. What a beauty this is! I’ve been putting on a praise and worship cd that Aubrey really likes, and then there she is singing the songs even when it’s not playing. And there He is with us in it all, and it’s just too much sometimes, all He does and how He works and that He loves us! 🙂 Thank you for sharing your gratitude . . .It’s contagious! deb

    Reply

  8150. What a great post and thought! (And I absolutely love that verse!) Sometimes it’s easy to see the bad things in life, but there really is so much for which to be grateful. And even if everything else in the world is going wrong, just the simple fact that “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so” is enough to make us eternally grateful. Thanks!
    Ben

    Reply

  8151. Thank you for encouraging us to be servant leaders, like Jesus! 🙂 Sometimes I get into “what about me????” mode. Ha! But, Jesus always takes care of me so I can continue to serve others. God bless you! deb

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  8153. Linda,
    wow again, incredible lesson. I was interviewing a couple of years ago for a high promotion, and the interviewer asked what my thoughts were on supervising people, and I said that being a servant was integral to how I would supervise. They did not concur, the servitude was the deal breaker, and I would not budge, so I didn’t get it and was okay with it. Your message just confirms my thoughts “perfectly”. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8154. Linda,
    what a very insightful and important lesson. Being born again is essential to salvation, as is also dying to self and the selfish wants and desires of the world. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8155. Linda,
    Awesome post, and one I really needed to hear today, it has been a day where my faith has actually been attacked by another. It is sooooo important to know what you believe and be able to articulate. I would love to say I am a closer too, but, I am a sower. I sow, and God will determine if I ever get to see the fruits, but I don’t often see them. Thanks for this great lesson, sister
    God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, I’m glad this post blessed you. Funny that you should say it was “one I really needed to hear today” as that echos the current working title of the book. As I’ve been reading about how to write a book proposal, thinking about the audience seems to be quite important. And those who “really needed to hear that today” are those I envision the book reaching. It is a challenge to walk the Christian walk in this fallen world, and a little encouragement at the right time can be a huge help. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8156. Reading your post…this thought came to me…sometimes we are called to plant the seed, someone else will water it…some others will take care of it…and finally the harvest belongs to God..In that seed’s lifecycle….God will place each one of us…accordingly so that our part is so important as the others…and the end result is always the Glory of God. One day, when we reach Heaven, we will come to know our part in the expansion of God’s Kingdom.Thank you for writing it so beautifully…

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, I love the seed analogy. And I think we each get to play different parts, but you are right that God gets the Glory for growing and maturing the seed. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8157. You put this so beautifully. I, too, used to feel so bad, as though I was an awful witness, because I had never prayed with someone to accept Jesus. Thank you for putting that in the proper perspective! God bless you as you share Him today! deb

    Reply

  8158. Linda,
    I am a born again child of God too and that makes us family 🙂 Yes, you said it right and that song from Third Day is one of my current favorite Christian tracks because it echoes my feelings exactly. Hope your husband enjoyed his birthday and you guys had a great Indie Day?
    In Him,
    Vineet

    Reply

  8159. I love how you explained born again. I sing that Third Day song a lot! 🙂 It know the term has been drug through the dirt. But the truth of it has been drug to the cross. 🙂 love and prayers and thanks! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I like that – the truth of it has been drug to the cross! So true! I’ve been listening to Third Day a lot lately because I’m going to see them in concert on July 17 and have front row VIP seats. I even get to meet the band before the concert. I’m so excited! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8161. My daughter was recently visiting some friends in another country. While she was at their home, the police came and asked her if she was a Christian and if she was there to talk to other people about Jesus! As we celebrate our independence today, we can be thankful that the police will not be barging into our homes today to threaten us about our faith.

    Reply

  8162. This post hit home for me, as I’m sure it did for many others. The comparison to kids at the beginning made me laugh. “Why can’t you listen BEFORE I get mad and start yelling?!” Hmm, how many times have I said that?? I also appreciate the recognition that people of faith are a diverse group, and we are called to respect and connect to others who might not be like us. This is always a challenge for me. I blogged about it recently– “Nice Idea But…” I’m not putting the link in this comment because I’m not sure that is appropriate (still learning blog etiquette). Anyway, I enjoyed catching up with your blog this morning.

    Reply

    • Galen, Yes, I have said that very line to my son more times than I can count. But I suspect God has said it to me even more. As for a link to your blog in a comment, I think that is fine if it is related to the topic. I’ll come check out your post anyway. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8164. Another strong and bold post for Christ! 🙂 So glad to be a part of the community of saints, to be one in the Spirit. God is so amazing, so wonderful, so beyond fully comprehending . . .and I love that! Have a great 4th, Linda!

    Reply

  8165. God bless you, Linda, as you await that call. May He graciously work in your conversation and be glorified through it all. (He already is through this post about it!) You are a courageous child of His! love, deb

    Reply

  8166. Linda,
    This is a great and powerful testimony, and it is good that you are sharing this as a lesson learned. We all know what it is like to be tugged on by the Spirit and to resist. It is natural for us as people to stew, it is for me and I have a long history of it. Following the Spirit in His leading is the answer though, and this issue will be resolved soon. I will add this issue in my prayers for you. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8167. Linda,

    Thank you for that powerful post…You need great courage to do something that God asks us to do…but with the grace of God , He enables us to do it, better than what we can ever imagine…Had gone through many creative intervention of God to teach me obedience, forgiveness…and many more….I have never forgotten those lessons that I have learned the hard way.:)

    I pray that God will give you the courage and the right words to speak with your fellow christian and this will be a blessing to you and for many others.
    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, Thank you. Your prayers are greatly appreciated. It does seem the lessons we learn the hard way are the ones we remember the best. I just thought of the lyrics to a song called “Faith of a Child” by the O.C. Supertones that says, “Cause I wander from the path so far, Would it be easier, easier to be where you are.” We don’t listen and wander from the path God has set before us. I know it would be easier to be where He is and where He wants me to be. But to know and to do are not always the same. I’m a work in progress. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8168. I love the illustration of the lawn and the grass seed. That is so true, and I can even see those two extremes at different times in my own life. It is so true that there must be a balance of love and truth. That is something I will think about today. Thank you!
    In Christ,
    Ben

    Reply

  8169. Linda,

    I love when Holy Spirit reveals great truths from real time examples…HE has done that many times in my life…and I feel that they stay in our heart longer….Now, everytime you look at your lawn..you will remember the seeds of faith…

    One of my friends always say..”We have many who preach about the second coming of Jesus..but there are many out there who does not know why Jesus came to this world the first time and what exactly salvation is” As you said…there need to be a balance of truth and love…the whole Gospel needs to be shared and not part of it..

    Thank you for directing us to this great truth..

    God Bless,

    Rani

    Reply

  8170. Linda,
    That was a great example with the lawn and the seed. The need for a balance in truth and love is vital. Secular education, Theory, and human reasoning have led our youth away down the path to Godlessness, and being bold for Christ and telling the truth are their only hope. I went to a conference a few months ago that Steve Forbes spoke at, and he said tolerance and political correctness are killing us, and I agree. When followers of Christ are muted because they fear offending someone, then it is time for change. Great lesson, God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8171. Linda! You are an amazing voice for Christ. I am pretty isolated, so don’t always realize what others are adopting as the truth. Thank you so much for sharing that salvation isn’t something we can do ourselves. We need Jesus, no if, ands, or buts. God bless you as you lift His name! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, It is all the encouragement I get from all of you in comments here on my blog and in reading all your blogs that has helped me to be a bolder voice for Christ. You are exactly right – we need Jesus, no ifs, ands, or buts. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8172. Linda,

    Very powerful thought…I especially like the line..” My faith in Christ is not an obligation, it is a privilege and a gift. ” How often do we forget that? Do we give Him the love and worship that He deserves or is it all about us? The tricks of the enemy is so decieveing sometimes..and very subtle. But when our focus in only in God, He gives us the wisdom to understand the tactics of the evil one.

    Thank you for the wonderful post
    Rani

    Reply

  8174. Linda,
    You are so right, we have had five or six decades at least in this country of having our moral compass slightly guided off course a little at a time until true north is shown to be south. We justify everything, what were lies, became white lies, then became bending the truth, to exagerrating, to I saved him from the truth, which now sounds noble even. True north exists, we just need to recalibrate to find it, and that recalibration lies in knowing the Lord and dying to self. God Bless you
    Jim

    Reply

  8175. I was just studying this today, as I attempt to reconcile my depression with my faith. Thank you Linda for putting it in front me again!

    Reply

    • Beth, It’s not me, it’s the Holy Spirit! I have continued to keep you in my prayers, and it appears God is working on the answer to those prayers without my even realizing it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Theresa, I love that song! It is wonderful that we have such a blessed Savior to help us discern the truth each day. Now that I think of it, I should have titled this entry “Discerning Truth.” Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8177. I really liked this post. It is so easy to let our thoughts go astray and slip into all kinds of thoughts that are not true. We must daily go to Christ to have our minds renewed. It makes me think of the hymn “I need The Every Hour”. It makes me so glad that we have such a gracious Savior who causes our hearts to rejoice in the truth. 🙂

    Reply

  8179. Thank you, Linda, for teaching us about those subtle little lies that slip in and stay if we aren’t careful and fully disposed to Jesus. I read a time management book that talked about looking at what was on our belief windows. We are going to act on our beliefs. If our actions are not lining up with God’s truth, we need to go back and look at what we are truly believing. And make adjustments according to His word! 🙂 Sorry . . .a little long here! God bless you, Linda, and your discerning heart for Him! deb

    Reply

  8181. Linda,

    Wonderful post…The blood of the Lamb on the door frame of my heart…That also means that everything that comes in and goes out of my heart should be holy because I’m dealing with the blood of the lamb that is Holy..

    Thank you Linda..
    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8182. This is just wonderful Linda! I love that . . .the blood of the Lamb on the door frame of our hearts! 🙂 Since I’m doing Exodus, I’ll have a post coming up about this as well. Surprise! ha! love, deb

    Reply

  8183. I am always telling people I’m time dysfunctional. . .because I am! ha! I think I can do a zillion things in a small amount of time. Just doesn’t work. So, doing what is most important, what is going to matter the most, is an ongoing process for me. And that means some stuff just has to not get done . . .or watched or read. If only we could go get more time! this way though I have to prioritize Him. . .and that’s a good thing! 🙂 Thank you Linda and Ben! love, deb

    Reply

  8184. Great post! I am always shocked when I really stop to think about how much time I waste. It’s usually not that I’m doing something terrible, but just spending so much of my time on things that don’t really matter. I have really been convicted about that lately. Thanks for the reminder.

    God bless,
    Ben

    Reply

    • Ben, I have been convicted about this lately as well, so this post was really for me. It was so cool how you had that one line in your blog today that fit perfectly into what I was thinking. I think God might be trying to tell us something. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8185. Thank you Linda for encouraging us to press in to Him in the weaknesses that we have. He’s there too and able to do more with it than we can imagine. But I want to imagine and believe! 🙂 love, deb

    Reply

  8186. Thank you Linda! I’m so sorry that you were going through that, but am thankful for what came out of it. A great post that will help so many! I go through this too . . . and so your encouragement will stick with me. It also helps knowing that others are going through this too. God bless you! deb

    Reply

  8188. Thank you Linda for this thought-provoking post. I have always loved the Proverbs–there is so much there, it could be a lifetime study in itself. David Johnson gave a sermon this weekend that started with some of the “too good to be true” offers we often see, and showing from Proverbs and other passages that we must identify and avoid folly. Yes, we must pray for wisdom, but maybe as a starting point we have to pray to at least avoid being foolish! I plan to reblog your post on one of my sites, if that’s okay with you. Thanks!

    Reply

    • Mike, I’m glad you liked this post. I’ve been reading all the way through Proverbs this week, with only two chapters to go. You make a good point that we need to pray and ask God to help us avoid being foolish, or being fooled into thinking what is foolish in the eyes of God is wise. Feel free to reblog. If this post can help just one person seek wisdom from God, then I’ll be happy. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8189. Linda,
    I couldn’t help laughing when I read your post. I’m a klutz and an absent-minded professor bundled into one. On rare occassions my trousers come out of the laundry with something of value inside the pockets and it is always a real blessing. I fully relate to your post although for me, hope is ever present because of my carelessness. Thank you for reminding us of hope that we seem to think is lost when trials come our way. I praise God for this timely reminder and like Debbie and Rani shall be checking my prayer pockets 😀
    Vineet

    Reply

  8190. Linda,

    Oh…I loved that example you used…When its long..you forget that you still have the hope…I needed it today…Like Deb said..I have to run to my closet and find mine…Who knows..may be $ 20 is waiting for me..
    🙂

    God Bless and have a great weekend..
    Rani

    Reply

  8191. Linda,
    Your post and Rani’s are closely related today, different wording but a lot of the same messages, they actually compliment each others teaching. You have written a great lesson on hope here and encouragement to not ever give up on it. God Bless sister
    Jim

    Reply

  8192. I loved this Linda and needed it too! Sometimes our hope in Him gets mocked. . .I’m heading for my closet, my prayer closet, and pulling out some hope for today. God bless you! deb

    Reply

  8193. Thank you so much Linda! This post reminds me of The Case For Christ by Lee Strobel. I can see the lawyer coming out in you, and it’s good solid truth stating. 🙂 God bless you always! deb

    Reply

  8194. Linda,
    The world tries to discredit Christ as God and make him out to be a prophet because if He isn’t then their whole religion is in the toilet. I do know that the muslims just credit Him as a prophet which is something that most muslims don’t even know. Sad thing for them is that acknowledging Him as such just doesn’t cut it. Great message, God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, Yes the Muslims and other, such as B’hai, Unitarians, and more want to just listen to Jesus’ good teachings and ignore the rest. I am thankful to know and have the faith to believe the truth. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8195. Linda,
    Proverbs is a great book, I did an intensive study on it last year. Yes, the world touts stolen things and legitimizes them by claining that even though it is stolen, it should be yours anyway, so you are entitled to it. I choose to seek wisdom also. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8196. God bless you, Linda, for teaching us on wisdom! It is not the same as the world’s wisdom, is it? So we may look foolish while being wise in Jesus. So thankful for the strengthening your blog brings to my walk with Him. love, deb

    Reply

  8197. Linda,

    Thank you so much for this beautiful post…I love all the tools mentioned…Word of God, prayer, power of the Holy Spirit and the accountabilty…I have failed many times using my will power to fight the temptation…As Jim said, when we use our will power..its like relying on our self that depening on God..

    Linda…the post was very beautifully written and these tools will always remain in my heart..
    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8198. Linda,
    This was a great study. You have it down to a tee in leading others to the chainsaw. As I read I was thankful to realize that I employ all of these things in my effort to stand up to temptation daily. Prayer, the Spirit, Scripture and accountability are a daily thing for me. Willpower to resist sin is a lose-lose for me, because relying on willpower is not relying on God, but instead on self. And self reliance just doesn’t work for me, God guiding my steps is the only thing that keeps me on the path. Thanks for this great lesson sister. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, Relying on my own willpower is a lose-lose for me also. I am working on employing God’s tools more these days, but it took some real failures on the “small things” that I thought I could handle myself to get me there. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8199. Thank you, Linda, for such a wonderful lesson on temptation. I remember at one point thinking that something was wrong with me, with my walk, because I was tempted. Then I understood that isn’t a sin, just the giving in to the temptation and doing the act. Thanks for the tools we can use to resist the devil, so he will flee! God bless! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Even Jesus was tempted, so we’re in good company! I am grateful that God has given us these tools. I know they help me a lot when I actually use them. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8200. I too have written a post long back from the same scripture…but in a different way..I love when the Holy Spirit gives us different perspectives from the same scripture…

    Thank you for reminding us to look to Him for the wisdom that we need for our evreyday life..

    Blessings,
    Rani

    Reply

  8201. Linda,

    This reminds me of King David’s prayer in the Psalms. He asked God not to make him too rich that he might forget Him or poor that he might steal and disgrace God’s name. Yes…God will give us much more than we ask…but it takes WISDOM…and a deep humility to know how to balance.

    Great challenge for me personally. Thank you and blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8202. Linda, you won’t be surprised that I have a post coming up about not compromising God’s word, but taking it all in, will you? ha! And one about answered prayer . . . blessings, and the danger of getting too caught up in them instead of the One who blesses! Thank you so much for sharing your life and walk with Him. You inspire me! love, deb

    Reply

  8203. Linda,

    What an inspiration for your readers! I’m always encouraged when I see humility in print, particularly from one who embraces rather than despises the shaping hand of the Lord. I’m glad that you have a vision for sharing tested truths with people who are hurting and crying out for more reasons to hope.

    Have a blessed day and I rejoice for your family. To have a wife and mom like you is truly a sign of God’s favor.

    Martin Drummond

    Reply

    • Martin, Thanks for stopping by. I tried to live my life without allowing God to shape me, and I was a miserable failure. So now I am the clay, and He is the potter. I’m not done yet, but I’m closer to what He wants me to be today than I was yesterday. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8204. Linda,
    This is a great post, I wrote one similar a while back where I quoted the same scripture. I too pray for wisdom daily and hope He blesses me with a little. God blesses His children as He sees fit in His own time, and the blessings are truly a gift to us when we do not expect anything. I have heard people say that if you tithe, it will come back to you in the form of blessings, and I have always been fearful of taking this approach. Praise with expectations is not praise. Our God is so good, and he knows out hearts. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, Why am I not surprised you wrote on something similar? 🙂 I do expect blessings, but not the kind most people think of. I expect that He will bless me spiritually, He will bless my soul in ways I cannot even imagine. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8205. Linda,

    What a wonderful post which shows the magnitude of His grace which makes us innocent…I was a prisoner too..and was that dead man..but on that wonderful day that I accepted Him as my savior, I was set free…considered innocent…

    I never know how much it cost
    To see my sins upon that cross

    Yes..I never know the cost of my sins…because He paid it full and to make me innocent..he became the guilty…GRACE alone saved you and me…

    Love,

    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, I love that song, but never thought of it the way you summed it up: “I never know the cost of my sins…because He paid it full.” I am so grateful for His Grace. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8206. Linda,
    Very awesome post. I used to allow fear and doubt into my world, buut instead of being the standard, yhey are now an alarm. When I begin to feel fear, worry, and doubt to creep into the perimeter, that is my signal that I need to spend more time in prayer. Fear and worry are extinguished by faith. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8207. Hi again
    Yes, you will like Martin. Larry is a bit different in his writing. I have learned so much from him because he doesn’t write like me at all. He focuses on different areas of his Spiritual walk than I do, and I don’t always agree with him. But I have no doubt he has a deep deep love for the Lord, and nine times out of ten, I learn something new every time I read Him. I pray for all twelve of you that I follow twice daily, as the day doesn’t seem right if I don’t read your lessons. I am deeply enriched by the encouragement I get from all of you each day. God Bless
    Jim

    http://morningdevotion.wordpress.com/

    Reply

  8208. Linda,
    Wow, that was an amazing lesson. Your Spiritual wisdom is evident in your writings, and your passion to pursue Him and die to self daily is also evident. It is funny, there are a group of us that are “SO” on the same page and also at the same place in our faith. Gladwell, Rani, Vineet, Larry, and Martin, I think you read all of them also, but we all think so much alike. I cannot tell you the times I have written, and on the same day two of my other blogger friends wrote the same thing. I don’t know if you read martin, if you don’t let me know and I will give you his link. God Bless you sister
    Jim
    PS had surgery this mornin, so if I sound a bit loopy, it’s the pills . 😉

    Reply

    • Jim, Thanks. I just hope my “Spiritual wisdom” actually shows in my every day life. It’s easy to talk the talk, harder to walk the walk. But by relying on Him each day I get closer and closer. I have noticed the same thing about our little group. I haven’t read Martin, and would love the link. I’ve only read a bit of Larry’s but plan to go back and check it out some more. I will pray for a speedy and blessed recovery from your surgery. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8209. I love that, being innocent in His eyes! The whole world condemns, but not our Lord. Thank you Linda, for encouraging us to be free and innocent in Him today! love, deb

    Reply

  8210. Linda,
    One cannot truly understand and be grateful for the gift of forgiveness and grace unless they were once a prisoner. Being bound by the chains of sin at one time is what makes you delight in the freedom of the Spirit. What is funny is this, when I was living freely in the world, I was bound by the chains of sin, but when I submitted to God through the Son I finally knew what freedom was through the peace of the Spirit. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, Oh yes, the “freedom of the world” is such an illusion, isn’t it? But until you know true freedom of the Spirit you don’t really understand. Thanks for your insightful comment. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8211. Linda,

    I know that kind of fear. For a long time…I kept postponing the process of getting a Polish citizenship based on fear. There were always the ‘what if…’ question in my mind. But when I finally gave the matter…I mean fully surrendered to God, I found peace for my soul…and courage for the journey He has in store for me.

    Fear…only seeks to paralysed us from moving on towards the things God has in store for us.

    Thank you for this great reminder to cast our cares to Him.

    Gladwell

    Reply

    • Gladwell, Yes, fear seeks only paralyze us, Satan seeks to keep us from furthering God’s kingdom through fear. I am so happy to hear that God helped you overcome your fear of becoming a Polish citizen and for your journey with Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8212. Linda,

    Thank you for speaking to me about fear…Though I expereince freedom in Christ, there are times in my life that the devil puts fear in my heart…..I feel the more you know and is confident about His love, less will we fear about our life…I know that I’m much better in that matter than few months back…yet to be perfected in many areas…

    Thank you for that wonderful devotion
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, Always remember that “God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7. As long as no one can take Christ from your heart, you have nothing to fear. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8213. Thank you, Linda, for the beautiful reminder that we don’t have to fear. We can have freedom instead, in His love. 🙂 God bless you as you write for Him . . .and bless us! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I’m glad my writing has blessed you! 🙂 It was you that inspired the poem. Reading your wonderful and inspiring poetry every day has brought out a side of my writing that I have not explored much. And so you are a blessing to me! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8214. Thank you for sharing that great praise report…Our God is a God who answers prayers…And I praise God for giving you the strength to do the needful for the people in need…and also for giving you the courage to share your faith..

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8215. Linda,

    Amen. May the Lord bless you and others as you do good for others in need. And yes…I believe you will have strength for many more years to come. Be blessed and encouraged! God loves you.

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8216. this topic on tears brings tears to my eyes. Thank you for articulating it soo well to bring a different perspective on my thinking. Many times i have asked my friends to cry to the Lord as He alone collects our tears and looks at them when he wants to bless us.

    New meaning of mixing my tears with that of our Lord Jesus. This is owesome and am totally overwhelmed by the thought. Jesus cried for our sin. It pained him to see us not connecting with God. We certainly cry when self unsatisfactory feelings get on us. How can the two types of tears be put together? Yes, God collects them together!

    Reply

  8217. Linda,
    That is a great testament to the power of prayer, but also to the power of faith. a couple of weeks ago, I was praying and toward the end, I had a thought to pray for something, and although I prayed about it, afterwards when thinking about it, I was doubtful, and I knew this was wrong. I then prayed again and put all of my faith into it this time, and the prayer was answered. It was a powerful lesson to me that if I pray for rain, I should bring that umbrella.
    God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8220. Linda,

    Beautiful reflection on prayer. As it were, if one would be ask to meet with the president of his country, they would definitely prepare themselves beforehand and learn as much as possible how to please the president. And if the president is just human, how much more ought we as Christians prepare ourselves to meet the KING OF KINGS…and the OWNER OF THE UNIVERSE? Our choice of words will reflect our reverence and fear of our Lord. Thank you for calling this to our attention.

    Blessed post, indeed!

    Gladwell

    Reply

    • Gladwell, You are so right! We would never appear before the president without being prepared and thinking carefully about what we would say. When we come before God, we should be even more prepared. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8221. Oh LInda . . .I don’t know why exactly, but this has me in tears. I think I too often take Him for granted and do not hold Him in the awe I should. So, thank you soooo much. My tears of humbling are needed. God bless you and be with you as you walk this weekend! You are a wonderful woman of God and I am so blessed to have met you! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, God was definitely with me and blessed me this weekend at Relay. The sun shone all weekend (not expected or usual for Hoquiam, WA)! And I had the opportunity to share Him with a couple of people. Today I did not wake up in pain. All things I reverently prayed for last week. God is good! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8222. Linda,

    You said it correct..Most of the time..our prayers are like a grocery list…your intimate time with Him is over once you babble everything on the list…I loved everything you mentioned about prayer…especially to be silent in awe of Him….

    God bless and have a nice weekend
    Rani

    Reply

  8223. Great explanation of the Trinity Linda. I have never really had a hard time with it, but have known several people who have, wanting a logical explanation of the Spiritual Trinity. Thank you God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, The concept has never bothered me, either, but I know people who are bothered by it. I guess you and I are in that group of believers who are content to trust God with the answers we can’t completely comprehend for now! Maybe someday we’ll meet at His throne and we can ask our questions together. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8224. Wow Linda! What a great post on the Trinity. I just loved it! 🙂 Thank you so much for explaining it in a way I can use to help others understand too! 🙂 God bless you big time! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks. Of all the things the pastor said in his 20 minute sermon, his explanation of the meaning of the word “persona” just hit me as really important to understand, and so I wanted to share it. I pray it will allow you to bless others. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8225. Linda,

    Prayers with you as you walk for this good cause…Yes..one day, God is going to wipe out all our sickness and our pains…and cant wait for that day..

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8226. Linda,

    Thank you for sharing your story…and being a part of ministry for those who have lost loved one and others who have survived. My heart goes out with you…in prayer as you walk on….

    Blessings and love,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8227. We make sure to provide you the best options for how to survive lung cancer. If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with lung cancer, then this would be the right place for treatment of lung cancer.

    Reply

  8228. Linda,
    Thank you for this very Spirit inspired encouragement. I also have much about God, the Spirit and Christ that I do not understand. If I try to figure it all out then I am leaning on my understanding, not His, so I am content to wait and ask the questions when I get there. God Bless you and yours
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, I don’t expect to fully understand this side of Heaven, but I do ask the Spirit for wisdom every day in an effort to know and understand God more fully than I did the day before. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8229. God bless you Linda, as you support those with or affected by cancer. And thanks for giving us a way to join you! 🙂 You are a blessing! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks for the donation! 🙂 Please keep me in your prayers this weekend. I’m not really in good enough shape for this walk, but it is worth it. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8231. LInda . . .I love that song by Aaron Shust! Us and our music, huh? 🙂 and I loved how you tied this into Memorial Day. I didn’t think enough ahead of time to do that today, so am so blessed that you did! I also realized that I don’t think I have you on my blog roll, so will remedy that today! God bless you always as you faithfully serve Him, in love! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I saw Aaron Shust at a Third Day or Jeremy Camp concert and had to get his CD. I love it! Interestingly, the majority of this post was something I wrote about three years ago and found it stuffed in my prayer journal. I typed it up on Saturday, but I just added the Memorial Day part this morning. God’s timing is so amazing to me. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8232. Linda,

    How true…the truth of God does not fade with time. These words are as powerful today. Thank you for sharing with us!

    Love and blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8233. Wow Linda,
    Extremely impressed, so many very important thoughts in such a few words. This line really rings true to me”Even though I’ve often strayed
    Throughout my life You always stayed”. as I was just today telling a friend the same thing in different words. God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8234. Oh Linda . . .I loved your poem. 🙂 I’m so glad and blessed you shared it with us. And thank you for mentioning me . . .some days my poems really stink and maybe I shouldn’t try to write one everyday! ha! But He knows our hearts, right? So I’ll keep trying! Have a great weekend! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I’ve been reading your poems for a while now, and I’ve yet to find one that stinks! We can be so critical of our own writing, can’t we? You glorify God with every word, and that is what it is all about. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8236. LInda, I loved this and have kept journals off and on for many years. The idea of a prayer journal is simple and now you’ve got me wanting to start one up again! All for Him and His glory . . .thank you and God bless! deb

    Reply

  8237. This is such a lovely post, i think ill try making a journal on prayers too. i totally agree, that God answers every prayer even if it dsnt go ur way, it is for the better, and life is a test afterall. =)

    Reply

  8238. Oh, I do, too!! When I’m down, I just put on a great CD filled with God’s love and encouragement and I’m lifted up.

    God’s best to you,
    Mary

    Reply

    • Mary, Thanks for the encouragement. I’ve been thinking about this post for awhile and God finally gave me the green light to post it yesterday! I have been so blessed by the responses. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8239. WOW – if only this were a semon at church. We are still divided only because of this matter. We’re praying for some more open hearts that might learn to praise even if it’s the “other” kind of music.

    Reply

    • Lynne, I do understand people preferring different styles of music. I hope we don’t have any who believe that music does not glorify God just because it is not their preferred style! Open hearts is always a good thing to pray for. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8240. Linda, I noticed that you loved music, and all kinds. me too! 🙂 And I appreciate your searching and study to find out what pleases God about music. Now, I can sing away . . .with Third Day! God bless you! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, If you like Third Day, you should check out these other artists: Jeremy Camp, Casting Crowns, MercyMe, and Audio Adrenaline. You have probably heard of all of these, but they are some of my favorites. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8241. I agree with you. You really explained your feelings on both the subject of music and the subject of Bible translations well.

    There was a point in my life when I began to study the Bible really hard, and the Bible that I happened to use was the King James Version. Since then I have come to appreciate other versions and translations of the Bible, as well. When I am having my quiet time I will often remember a scrap of a verse, and it will be the KJV that I am remembering, so I will go to my Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance to find it. Then once I find it I like to go to biblegateway.com and read other versions like the NIV or HCSB. It can really be helpful.

    I also enjoy all kinds of music, both Christian and secular.

    Reply

    • Theresa, The first Bible I ever owned was KJV, and I still have it. But when I started seriously studying the Bible with was with an NIV study Bible, which is still my favorite of all the translations I own. I like to compare verses in different translations because it helps me gain a better understanding of what God is trying to say to me.

      I also enjoy secular music, though much of what I used to listen to doesn’t appeal to me anymore because of the lyrics.
      Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8242. It takes courage to walk thru adversity and after having done so to relive parts of it. But wow, what an opportunity to re-examine our lives.

    Mary

    Reply

  8243. Linda,

    Wow..that was so beautiful…I love the book of Ezra and Nehemiah…the rebuilding of the temple is so beautifully mentioned in those two books…I loved how you related it to us…the temple of God. Oh…do I know that opposition? Of course…whenever there is any kind of positive steps in my spiritual life..there comes the opposition…sometimes even through Godly people…Satan is good at his tricks you know…but the strong reminder in your post is that once the decree is passed…no opposition can alter what God has planned..What a great assurance.Thank you Linda.

    Blessings,
    Rani

    Reply

  8244. Linda, I love the Old Testament and love what He showed you to share about rebuilding the temple ( us )! Was also thinking about opposition this morning, so this really blessed me. Thank you, Linda, for writing so faithfully for us! deb

    Reply

  8245. Linda,
    The Spirit working through us is very evident when we let Him take the reins. I am so glad things went the way they did for you in this situation, as the glory truly goes to God. Thank you for your encouragements.
    God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8246. Yes, anger can be a horrible poison. God’s love thru the Holy Spirit fills us completely as we make room for Him. Really good post.

    God bless you,
    Mary

    Reply

  8247. I like how you point out that we are all called into preisthood. Sometimes Christians are content to let the church leaders do it all, to sit back, be fed, and enjoy the ride. Christ gave us the Great Commission. which is for all of us who are His followers. Great post
    God Bless
    Jim

    Reply

  8248. Good post- I enjoyed especially your closing thought. That we need only Jesus to take away our sin and we should be always pointing others to Him. Thank you for that great thought.
    God bless,
    Ben

    Reply

    • Ben, I don’t usually think of myself as being like John the Baptist, but in this respect we are called to be a voice calling in the wilderness just as he was. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8249. This is really an important one for us to get, isn’t it Linda? I loved how your situation turned out, as He confirms to you His word. It relates to Jim’s post in a way . . .it’s easier just to react and respond instantly. It takes more time and work to wait and pray . . .to do it the right way. But the results are so much worth it! Thank you Linda for blessing me with this today!

    Reply

    • Deb, You are right about the connection to Jim’s post. I didn’t consciously remember it when I wrote this, but I’m sure it was in the back of my mind during this situation and was a blessing. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8250. Powerful thought Linda…We are called to be a member of the royal preisthood…filled with the Holy Spirit…Though seperated from the world, God expects us to be a living testimony…

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8251. What a strengthening in Christ post Linda! wow! It’s like Mary says above, a responsibility that we can’t chose to forget. Thank you for reminding us of what He’s called us to! God bless you! deb

    Reply

  8252. Linda,

    One day I hope I have a testimony as powerful as yours. Right now my affliction is pulling me away from God, farther each day. This gives me a tiny bit of hope. Thank you.

    Beth

    Reply

    • Beth, That will be my prayer for you. I’m glad my story gave you some hope. Hang onto that thread of hope. I believe God will hold onto you when you don’t have the strength to hold on to Him. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8253. The priesthood of all believers is an honor and a responsibility. Your post is terrific! It gets right to the significance of the Christian life. Thank you.

    Reply

  8254. Oh..Linda..What a great testimony..and I’m glad that you shared this.I’m sure that there are many out there who are not able to forgive someone in life..

    I love our God because He restores the broken and brings them back from the exile..to make them a beautiful temple of God..and you are a living testimony Linda…and I am too.

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8257. Thank you for sharing this with us. I love people’s testimonies . . .just the hope and redemption, stirs me up and makes me want to sing praises to Him! God bless you Linda! I am so thankful that you were saved out of your affliction and are here today, living for Him! deb

    Reply

  8258. Linda,
    What an inspiring message/testimony you have written today, I am glad the spirit led you to share that. Maybe your sharing this will be read by someone who is going through the same thing, and be a source of guidance to them, showing them that nothing is hopeless. Washing off the resentment in the shower of the Spirit leaves one cleaner and much lighter, and it all begins with forgiveness. God Bless and keep you and your family. Happy weekend
    Jim

    Reply

    • Jim, I do believe that we are meant so share our stories of loss and redemption so that others might be redeemed through our testimony. I have told this story many times one-on-one, or to small groups; but it is much harder to write it, not knowing who will read it. I do know that God is in control. Thanks for your message of your “less than flattering” tale that led me to finally post this story. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8260. Linda,

    Thank you…and it is true you are a great and blessed encourager. Keep up the good work of faith! I am part of you..

    Blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8261. Wow Linda,
    I am amazed, You were right, we wrote basically the same thing, virtually the same message. I felt the Spirit tug at me to write that and I dropped what I was doing and went right to it. It is amazing how He works through us. God Bless and keep writing
    Jim
    By the way, you are blogrolled 😉

    Reply

    • Jim, That’s how it was with me. Didn’t want to write this, but felt the Spirit tug – really hard. Our God is amazing! And thanks for the blogroll! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8262. Thank you Linda for reminding us not to take granted anything in this life…even the relationships we have…because we do not know the length of our life and we dont want to regret one day for not loving enough…

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8263. Great thought. I love that passage and the simple “God have mercy on me a sinner” prayer. It is one that I have prayed often. Thank you for the reminder.
    God bless,
    Ben

    Reply

  8269. Linda,

    Great post…I had the habit of saying yes to everything that comes to me…but slowly god revealed to me that He do not expect that from me…He is teaching me to prioritize my life according to His standards so that I will not be stressed by life..God expects us to enjoy each days as it unfolds before us…and most of the time…we do not enjoy it..rather barely live it..

    Thank you for the great reminder.
    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, Yes, slowly I am learning this, too. The world will ask much of us. We must sit quietly with God to discern what He asks of us. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8270. Linda,

    Thank you for this timely reminder. Yes…busyness can and often comes between us and our relationship with God. I am learning this lesson of late. Its better to do little but more effectively…than to have so much to do…with no effectiveness. It takes wisdom to balance between what is most important and what is urgent but less important. I gather the wisdom as to why God created daylight and night. If we try to leave tomorrow today, we will eventually exhaust the energy reserves for tomorrow.

    Lord…make us less busy as we sit with You…and take up Your yoke.

    God bless and keep you!

    Gladwell

    If

    Reply

    • Gladwell, Thankfully God will give us that wisdom if only we ask! Thanks for adding your prayer that we would all take time to just sit with God. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8271. What a timely post for all of us today. I am not as busy as most, due to the nature of my situation as caregiver. So, I often feel pressure to be busier, to do more for others, beyond the one I care for. Thank you for the reminder that He wants us to have time to sit with Him! God bless you!

    Reply

    • Deb, I am not as busy as many moms either, because I only have one child and he is not involved in a bunch of sports or other extracurricular activities. We just need to not give in to the pressure to be busier. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8272. Linda,

    Thank you for that wonderful post…I pray that I’ll have the humble attitude of that tax collector everyday of my life…To be at His feet and to be myself is the best thing I can have…

    Love,
    Rani

    Reply

  8273. Great lesson Linda, on humility . . .on coming to God as we really are and seeking mercy. It makes me cry, to be able to do this and to receive His love and grace. Praying you have a blessed weekend! deb

    Reply

  8274. I forgot to mention its title…Perfect Love: (Part 1…Love- What it Really is and Why We Should Be Glad). I am glad that you also saw that same connection. 🙂

    Reply

  8275. This post amazed me. It seems like we have had the same thing on our minds. I just reposted an entry that I wrote back in January that was focusing on the that very idea.

    Reply

  8278. Linda,

    Thank you for this powerful reminder. Isaiah 59:1 Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save… Salvation had been a theme right from the time Adam sinned. God began preparing the world for salvation…long before God called Abraham to be the father of faith. Salvation…belongs to God and there was ever present with Him. God’s Right hand saves!

    Blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8279. Thank you Linda for sharing your thoughts about Jesus being the right hand of God! I love how you think and delve into scripture to support it. God bless you! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Thanks for your kind words. I figure if I can’t support my thoughts about God with scripture then they are only my thoughts and of no use to anyone. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8280. Linda – What a nice opportunity for you to talk with your son about forgiveness! And, I nice reminder to me, too. So thankful for second chances, third chances, fourth chances. . . .Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8281. Linda,

    What a powerful thought on forgiveness…Yes, we need to forgive just like we recieve the forgiveness from Him. He does not keep account…and so we shouldn’t be…

    Thank you Linda…and God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8282. Linda,
    Thank you for showing us that this equation is to the power of infinity and not limited. I’ve been in a very hard place when God asked me to ask for forgiveness from someone who was causing me severe hurt and pain for no fault of mine (Or so I thought). When I thought about it, I realized that I needed forgiveness from that person because I had ill thoughts about that person for what he was doing to me. The power of forgiveness is so amazing that I gained a friend who once was my enemy and a dear one at that. Better still, he is of another faith and therefore I was able to share the gospel with him through our new relationship. God’s love and forgiveness is eternal and never ending and in that we rejoice!
    Blessings,
    Vineet

    Reply

  8284. Linda,

    It is true what you said here. Yes, the prodigal may go out there and enjoy a bit of the worldly life…while in reality, he has miss on that which is truly life…of love, peace, hope etc. The good son is rarely preached on…yet, it is him who was with the father enjoying the good things with him…while his brother enjoyed himself for awhile before things went wrong. I do hope that they will be more preaching of the good son…in order to make the prodigal desire to come back home much soon. Yes…sometime, the prodigal has to face the consequences of his life..even after setting foot back to the Father.

    Wonderful post…and great thoughts.

    Blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

    • Gladwell, My experience is that the prodigal must hit rock bottom – must be out in the field feeding pods to the swine – before he will come to his senses and return home. But I do think his sense of gratitude for the grace of the Father are greater than that of the good son once he returns home. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8285. Great post Linda! and thanks for the reminder that the prodigals need our prayers and love. 🙂 I’ve thought about that before, of someone only accepting Jesus at the end of their earthly life. I’m glad that it happens, but know that they have missed out on so much, of getting to walk with Jesus here and now. God bless you! deb

    Reply

  8286. Linda – I have so learned that I have to look at what I do have, rather than think about what others have or what I don’t have. It has turned my heart around so that I have so much more gratitude toward God and toward everyone in my life. I love the quote you have from Mark 5. So easy to skim over verses you’ve read a hundred times and miss the message. Thanks for posting it here!

    I recently added a “Gratitude” page on my blog, joining the Gratitude Community started by Ann Voskamp on her blog. It’s been a nice thing to sit down and just list the daily blessings that come to mind.

    I hope your week is filled with blessings! –Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8287. Linda,
    Thank you for confirming something that I was sharing with dear family friends of ours with whom we have a Bible study every Sunday night. I was sharing with them how God answered our prayers for a friend in a breaking (Not broken yet and hopefully never will) marriage and suggested that we keep a log of all our prayers so that we could write out requests and track answered prayers. I do agree with you that “Gratitude is a wonderful antidote for sadness”. Well said.
    Blessings,
    Vineet

    Reply

  8288. Hi Linda
    I’m here from a comment you left at Eden’s,I enjoyed your post,family is important I hope you enjoyed your Mothers Day.Have a wonderful day and I’ll be back 😀 😀

    Reply

  8289. I am glad your son has a good relationship with the Lord. There are women out there who have children that make great grades and achieve many things, but the Christian Mother hopes and prays for what the Lord has achieved in your child. What a precious thing the two of you share! 🙂

    Reply

  8290. Linda,

    Like you, I am grateful for the family that I was born in and had to leave behind in order to come and make one of my own. I thank God…for the joys of motherhood that cannot be compare with any other. I thank God…for husband who is a co-worker with me…in parenting our daughter. And I thank God…for my mum who sacrificed and denied herself so much in order to give us, her children a decent life. I am grateful and thankful…that there are many precious mums in this world who love and nurture their children .

    I thank God…that you found time today to call us into a spirit of gratitude!

    God bless you!

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8294. Great post! Oh, how these words blessed me:

    “But then I realized that every time I come to this blog and post something that is intended to glorify God — to exalt Christ and not myself — I step out of the boat. When I post a link on my Facebook account or tell someone about my blog, I’m standing on top of the crashing waves. Once I hit the “publish” button, I have no control over who reads what I have written because this is a public blog. I know that not everyone who reads my words will agree with me. But I trust that God is in control and that if He is pleased with what I write that is all that matters.”

    Two passages of scripture come to mind:

    When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” John 21:15

    Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. 2Timothy 4:2

    So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Isaiah 55:11-12

    I have the very same struggle. I often feel ashamed and have thoughts that say “Who do you think you are? How dare you publish thoughts about the Lord. You are a terrible hypocrite, and need to keep your thoughts to yourself.” These thoughts tempt me to delete my blog, but somehow I find the courage to keep sharing. Thank you so much! I really needed to read your post today.

    Reply

  8296. Linda,
    I visited your blog today because of the comments you have left on Debbie Feller’s blog and I am glad the Lord brought me here. I started to publicize my daily devotionals on my facebook account after a big turmoil and I totally relate to you on that front. I’m one of those who is very affected by the crowd that I forget to play my game and eventually quit the game. However, in my walk with the Lord, He has taught me that I need to trust Him and share His word out there. Over the years, I grew my facebook account to nearly 800 family and friends and now with sharing Christ, I find meaning and purpose in being on a worldly networking site. Many a soul has questioned, many a friend I’ve lost but what counts is the 1 soul who might consider Jesus. God bless you as you continue to minister His word and I shall be here often to read His word.
    Blessings,
    Vineet

    Reply

    • Vineet, Thanks for stopping by and I am happy that you have found here something worth reading. It is only because of Him for in my own power I have nothing worthwhile to say. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8298. “It seems easier to focus on the character and actions of others, but it is more fruitful to focus on Christ and on allowing Him to change our own character and actions.” — Your words really resonate with me: looking to Christ to change us or how we deal with those around us–to transform us! That is the journey we need to be on.

    Reply

    • Elizabeth, Did I write that? Since yesterday is seems I wrote it and promptly forgot it, going back to my complaining. Thanks for reminding me of this truth that God gave me to share. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8299. Linda,

    This was really beautiful…How often have I made teh mistake of complaining about many others around me…rather than focusing on Him who is able to change them as well as my perspectives about them…I love reading the Psalms too…as they always lead us to the solution of our disturbing emotions…

    Thank you so much Linda for speaking to me through this post..When we respond to that urge which Holy Spirit puts in our hearts..it often ends up in a great blessing…not only for ourselves…but for many others in the same page…You have been a blessing.

    Prayers,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, I’m not sure complaining is always a mistake so long as we remember to complain to God – who can do something about our complaints (sometimes in the form of changing our attitude) – rather than complain to other people. This is something I still struggle with. I tend to complain to God AND to other people. Thankfully I’m a work in progress and He’s not done with me yet. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8300. Linda,

    Wow. What a blessed revelation this one is…to me as I dwell on the richness of the goodness of Our Lord. His salvation which is found within the gates…which look unattractive for the outside, yet when one enters…they find joy, peace and hope…for each day. Yes…indeed this is the day the Lord has made. And I will rejoice and be glad in it. And I pray the same for you today!

    Thank you, my sister.

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8301. This was just perfect, Linda. Praying that I stay in that place of focusing on Him and letting Him change me today and everyday! Love and peace for your day, deb

    Reply

    • Thanks. The idea was not original with me, but came from the song I mentioned. And thanks to the Holy Spirit this post came out not sounding judgmental (I hope). Thanks for stopping by. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8304. Thank you so much Linda, for taking us through those preceding verses leading up to the one we know so well. That was refreshing, insightful, and beautiful to me! But then, His word always is! 🙂 Blessings! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, Yes, His Word is always refreshing, insightful, and beautiful! It is living and active and the best thing I have ever read or will ever read. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8305. Linda,

    Well written Linda…When the world accuse us for our narrow mindedness…its amazing to realize how open minded we truly are to trust a God we have never seen and believe and hope for all the promises in our lives…Not only that, to recieve the salvation and wait for the eternity which the world think is foolishness…is quite a revelation which is given to only such open minded people I guess.

    Blessings,
    Rani

    Reply

  8306. Linda – This is a great way to think of the term “open minded.” I guess I never thought of that term that way. Awesome! To add to your thought, I like to think, too, that by seeking to love our neighbors, as Christ taught, requires a open mind–and heart–too! — Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8307. Linda,

    Amen. It is so true what you are saying here. The world accuses the Christian as one who is closed minded yet in reality, the Christian is one who is willing to believe even before seeing the results. Faith believes in a sure result even though it has nothing to cling on for support or prove other than just believe in the author of the Word, that is God. Faith…as you put is a miracle in itself.

    God bless you.

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8308. Linda . . .God bless you! You took something we get accused of all the time and turned it around. I never thought of it that way. ha! Very encouraging! love in Him, deb

    Reply

  8309. Linda,

    Thank you for that testimony….When people share truths from their personal expereince…it has stronger influence…Thank you for leading us to prayer…on knees.

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, I do believe that it is through my own story that I can best share His story, and so I try to include some of my own experiences here on my blog when appropriate. Glad you liked this one. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8310. Thank you. I needed to be reminded that wisdom is one of the many things that God will supply if we just ask. I have some decisions to make that will have an impact on not only the next few months, but also the next 4 or 5 years. It would mean a lot if you could remember me in your prayers.

    Reply

    • Theresa, You are welcome. It is always God’s will that we act with wisdom, so when we pray for wisdom we cannot help but be in His will. I will certainly keep you in my prayers that you would make the right decisions with God’s help. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8311. Thanks Linda, for leading us in worship and prayer here! His Holiness does seem impossible to understand, yet it’s also something He calls us to. So thank you for helping us along the way. Blessings and love, deb

    Reply

  8312. Linda – What a great testimony. I, too, find that my posture for prayer helps me to come in reverence toward God–whether it is kneeling or sitting with palms open to receive Him. Keeping you and your work in my prayers. –Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8313. I have also discovered that actually kneeling to pray is a wonderful thing. I try to maintain a “spirit of prayer” throughout the day, but there is just something special about kneeling before God, although I do need to do it much more often. I am overwhelmed with a sense of awe every time I think about the fact that when I pray, I am literally talking to God. Thank you.
    God bless,
    Ben

    Reply

  8314. Linda, I loved the part about not having to know how it works, but just that it works! 🙂 Thank you so much for encouraging us to kneel and pray! God bless you! p.s. I used to listen to Audio Adrenaline . . .you are bringing back memories! deb

    Reply

  8316. Linda,

    Amen and thank you for this very needful reminder. The Word should and ought to be handled with care in order to bear much needed fruit. We, the children of God have such a rich inheritance which come through the seed of the Word and when it has fully grow, will produce for us fruit that will last through out eternity. So…why run for seed which has only power for this life? Great challenge for us…when we loose focus.

    God bless and have a great weekend.

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8318. Linda,

    That writer’s block was defenitely for a reason…The message was for me i think….As though God was telling me..blogging is not to show your commitment towards writing..but it should be all about writing what God wants to convey…and for that you need to sit before the Lord and ask His wisdom….Thank you Linda..for speaking out..

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8319. Linda,

    When I started out, with the excitement of a new thing, I also spend much time…writing and writing. Maybe not about myself, but all the same writing. A few weeks ago, the Lord put a stop in the way I think as I approaching writing. Its not about me…but about Him. If I trust Him fully, He will do only what only He as God can do without me putting too much of an effort. God told me, He is not looking for my sucess but rather for my faithfulness. And so…here I am learning to lean on Him and I know you are too.

    Blessings,
    ‘
    Gladwell

    Reply

  8320. Linda, you did really good today. You got His message out to me and I thank you. Sometimes I question my whole involvement in the blog world for the exact reasons you stated. I don’t want it to be about me. I want it to be about Him. Guess it’s a daily challenge we all face. So thank you so much for going ahead and posting today and letting Him have His say. God bless you and keep you! deb

    Reply

    • Charis, I think if God and His wisdom don’t scare us a bit, we are worshipping a false god. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” Psalm 111:10a. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8322. Linda – AMEN! I didn’t see that you posted this yesterday when you commented on my post about a God-fashioned life! I love your post. Thanks. I think about how many times He’s had to reshape me and how I resist–push against Him instead of pressing in towards him. –Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8323. Hi Linda!
    Thanks for stopping by my blog and letting me know of your existence.

    And concerning your post here, I guess I’ve been around long enough that when anyone tells me that they haven’t done anything to cause regrets, I get suspicious. Not that that isn’t possible. Just very unusual.

    I heard a saying once. There are three kinds of people. Those who have had wilderness experiences, those who are in a wilderness experience now, and those who are about to.

    Can’t be avoided.

    Reply

  8324. Linda,

    Reading your post, I was reminded of a kids song..The words are as follows..

    He’s still working on me
    To make me what I ought to be.
    It took Him just a week to make the moon and the stars
    Sun and the earth and Jupiter and Mars
    How patient and loving He must be
    That He’s still working on me

    I’m glad that He has is not done working on ME…:)

    Love,
    Rani

    Reply

  8325. Linda,

    I am glad, He is not done with me too. Not yet. And I guess it will not be possible in this side of heaven. The fire…may seem to burn, but in fact, it only strengthens us for the work He has ordained for us. He is the Pottter, hence, who am I to instruct Him? Thank you for this reminder that our sins are forgiven and forgotten…in HIM.

    Blessings and hugs,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8326. Excellent thought. I am SO glad that He isn’t done with me yet. In fact, one of the prayers that I have been praying lately has been asking that the Lord will keep working on me. I’m glad He doesn’t give up on us.
    God bless,
    Ben

    Reply

  8328. Linda,

    So true Linda…we are very reluctant to tell others about our story…mostly because of fear..When I had to face a misscarriage in my life, God told me that He is going to use that terrible situation in my life to bless many others…I never understood that at that time…but my blog was born from the struggle I went through. I’m surprised how many people came across my life who went through the same situation and he used me to atleast pray for them…If I had not expereinced the emotional pain of a misscarriage, I would never understand what others go through. Thank you for putting your thought into words..because it strengthened me today..

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, I understand your emotional pain, too, having also experienced a miscarriage of a much-wanted second child. It was difficult, but I was able to find comfort from other women who had been through the same thing – and there are a lot of us. And when we share our pain the burden is lighter. I’m glad my words (really God’s words through me) strengthened you today. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8329. Linda,

    It is true. We are never alone…even though we might feel that way at a given season when we are going through our struggles. God always makes sure that there is someone who has gone before us…and will meet us, along the way or at the finish line for comfort and encouragement. Even the fact that we have meet on the net is that truth reinforced. Nothing is new, not our experiences or life circumstance. But above all, I thank God that Jesus through His death has borne all the difficulties we will ever face in life.

    Blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8330. I completely agree. Being a quiet, reserved and somewhat shy midwesterner, I tend to not say too much- even when people ask. But I have been convicted about that lately because I know that there might be someone out there who could benefit from my experiences. Sometimes the “rugged individualist” in me wants to “go it alone”, but that is not the Bible way. We are supposed to be a help to others and allow others to be a help to us. Thank you for that!
    God bless,
    Ben

    Reply

    • Yes, that old “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” mentality of Americans can get in the way of Biblical community. It is another reason besides fear that we do not share. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8331. Thank you for this post Linda. This very thing happened to me yesterday. I had been having a rather rough week and someone asked me at church how I was doing. I gave the typical. “pretty good” and instantly realized that wasn’t true. Thank you for the reminder. Blessings,

    Eden

    Reply

  8332. Thanks Linda, for helping us share our stories! Sarah Markley – The Best Days Of My Life – shares her story on her blog, as well as the recovery and redemption parts . . .and it is so beautiful and powerful and makes me cry every time I read it! So, grab your tissues sometime and go check it out. 🙂 Love in Jesus! deb

    Reply

    • Deb, I checked out Sarah’s story on her blog. Shouldn’t have done it at work! What a brave woman to share so much to so many. I tend to share more one-on-one, but someday maybe I will do more. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8333. Linda,

    Thank you for explaining the difference between love and tolerence…so beautifully…Especially I love that example which you quoted..about training a child..

    Lets hold on to the love that He offers…and show that love to others.
    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8334. Linda,

    My home pastor always said…there is something worse than hate or love…and that is indifference. Tolerance is indifference in a different word. When the world says…it doesn’t bother me…whatsoever, then the spirit of complacency steps in and God hates it. It is the LUKEWARM spirit in the church.

    Thank you and God bless you!

    Gladwell

    Reply

    • Thank you, Gladwell! I appreciate the encouragement. I agonized over posting this as I wrote it, worried about the reaction it would receive. But our God is good and He has used you and others to encourage me on having written such a difficult, but important, post. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8335. Linda – I’ve really struggled with the word tolerance, in part, because of what you have so clearly stated. I think we are to love everyone, as Christ commands. I’ve come to believe that the first step is accepting people in the place where they are–meeting them in their pain, shame, hope, grief, and sin. And loving them as best as we possibly can. As Christ would want us to. –Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8336. Thanks Linda, for talking more about tolerance. It’s a very emotionally charged subject, it seems! Good! God bless you for spreading His truth and love! deb

    Reply

  8337. Excellent thought. Sometimes I think it’s harder to love someone than than it is to tolerate them. True love always involves doing what is right, and that is a lesson it took me a long time to learn.

    Reply

  8338. Well said! Much easier to explain why we don’t want to be tolerant, but love so much we want to help course correct our friends. We can judge, but we cannot condemn. Thanks.

    Reply

  8339. I believe in love as well…I just got done reading through all the posts on givesmehope.com and it reminded me that there is a lot of good in the world it can just be hard to see. I have decided to go there whenever I feel irritated at people or upset, the stories are really moving. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!!!

    Reply

  8341. Awesome post, Linda! 🙂

    I think that Eph. 2:8-10 sums this topic up succinctly. We must bear in mind the order which Paul presents the elements of our Justification with God:

    BY grace – THROUGH faith – UNTO good works.

    The grace and the faith come first resulting in Salvation. Then the works come afterward.

    I really like the way you put this:

    “James says that faith without deeds is dead. Such faith does not die because it is not accompanied by good deeds – It was never alive to begin with if it doesn’t change the heart.”

    It reminds me of the quote by Calvin: “Faith alone saves, but the faith that saves is never alone.”

    In Christ,

    Loren

    Reply

  8343. This post hit home. I’ve been feeling a bit crabby myself the last couple of days. A little irritation leads to thoughts of criticism and judgment. That leads me to separation from others, and, I believe, separation from God. I have had to “capture” those thoughts and remind myself to be grateful. Thank you.

    Reply

  8344. Linda,

    Very powerful thought…My post for today was also about the great price He paid for the cross….Somehow Holy Spirit was forching me to write that…and felt so happy to read yours in that same topic…We can never repay what He has done for us…Our pastor told us the other day that if in this lifetime if we take the decision to preach the Gospel and reach out to many others the love of God…even then it would never repay what He did for us in return…

    Rani

    Reply

  8345. Linda – Thank you for this post. Last night I was talking with friends about how if we have the hope and joy of the resurrection in mind that we live a life filled with grace, joy, hope–and hopelessness disappears. But, we talked about how easy it is, in the midst of life–in the moment of parenting, or counseling or working–that we don’t keep Christ in the middle. It is a struggle, but we just need to stay in relationship with Christ and seek His face… and hope and gratitude will come. –Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8346. Linda,

    Amen. Just this afternoon…as I went to pick my daughter from pre-school…some ugly thoughts cropped up in my mind and for a while I entertained them and I felt depressed. By…after an encounter with someone…I realized that this was the devil trying to shout accusations into my mind. Before long…I had straighted up the matter in my head…and heart. And yes…all is well. I will think about this excellent things. Thank you for the reminder.

    Blessings your way!

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8347. Linda,

    I thank God for your wisdom to choose the right option…And thank God for that wonderful post which reveals what this Sunday worship is all about…

    God Bless
    Rani

    Reply

  8348. Linda,

    I’m really surprised…This is the second time God is doing this with me..Sometime back…all of my blogger friends were going through difficult times individually and all our posts had more or less the same truth to convey…In the same way..for past few days..I have been thinking about His second coming and also about the true worship and I see that God has put the same series of thoughts in many people’s mind and have been reading about the same through different blogs…This is really wonderful…I love when He does that…You know for sure what He thinks.. through all these posts.

    Thank you for listening to what He wanted to share…It was a confirmation for me…

    God Bless,

    Rani

    Reply

  8349. Linda,

    Amen….I love this. PRAISE THE LORD. What a beautiful Psalm, one which all nations of the earth can read and relate to. His love and faithfulness fills all the earth. And yes, I agree…it may seem a few words…but in them…all nations of the earth are blessed!

    Blessings to you, my dear.

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8351. That passage about our tears being put in His bottle is a favorite of mine, and the subject of our tears has for many years been of interest to me. I had never considered the idea of all of our tears going into one bottle. But it is true that the psalmist does use the pronoun “your”, and he doesn’t say “in one of your bottles”. It is funny how we can overlook things like that. I guess I am so used to going to Psalms when I am looking for passages of scripture that focus on the intimacy we can experience with the Lord.

    However, I really like the way you brought up how our tears are mingled both with the Lord’s tears and the tears of other believers; it takes the idea of the unity we have with each other in Christ to a new level for me, and I have recently been contemplating the fact that I have failed to value that as much as I should have at times. Thank you. This blessed me.

    Reply

    • Theresa, Thank you for your kind words. I also love the Psalms. I have a great book called “The Psalms for Prayer” that includes all of the Psalms with suggestions for related prayers interspersed throughout each Psalm and a suggested reading from another book of the Bible. I use it when I feel the need to cry out to God regarding some problem or want to Praise Him using the words of the Psalms. What a rich treasure God has given us! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8352. Linda,

    I pray that God will strengthen you both spiritually and physically in the coming days..

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, Thanks. He has strengthened me spiritually, and has given me the wisdom to know what I need to do to be strengthened physically. I appreciate your prayers and would ask that you pray I would have the self-control to implement the wisdom He has given me in this area. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8353. Great post Linda…Whenever I read a passage that I love or puzzle me..I try to ask lot of questions to God about it…so that I can think about it from different angles…and I have noticed that it has helped me to understand the truths behind the scripture more…

    Thank you for explaining to me that it is such passages that I dont understand much, when learned more will reveal His grace towards us.

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8354. Hey Linda!

    Thanks for sending me this link; you did a wonderful job summing it all up and adding wonderful truth as a reflection. I enjoyed speaking at Community of Faith greatly and am pleased to tell you that I will be back in August for a three week series starting on the 15th.

    Here’s my blog: http://wearemadeofsound.blogspot.com/

    God bless you!

    Reply

  8355. Linda,

    Beautiful thought…I have promised myself that I will not cry in front of others for a specific prayer request in my life…and that it will remain a secret between me and my Lord..I’m glad that He collects all my tears, when everybody else notices only a happy face.

    Thank you for that thought..
    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8356. Linda,

    This was exactly what we heard yesterday in church..We need to look at our lives and see whether God has blessed us enough and not compare with what others have and don’t have..Because it is when you look around you feel that life is unfair…Our God know what is best for each one of us…Thank you for that great thought.

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8357. I liked this, and I have always liked that parable. The Lord’s ways are so much higher than ours, and they are always fair. I pray that I will rest in this knowledge more.

    Reply

  8358. Linda,

    Goodness me. You expounded this better than I. And I love it! For one…when the Lord took me to this Psalm it was because of someone who has hurt me deeply…and who had acquire something and was walking around making me feel like I was worthless. But…God put this words…DO NOT FRET…for it only leads to evil. Oh, what an awesome God we serve. Yes…I may finish last…but the best God has to offer will be waiting for me.

    I thank God that you did a little more homework for my seek!
    Have a blessed weekend.
    Gladwell

    Reply

    • Gladwell, I am so glad this post spoke to you. We do serve an awesome God who uses us all to encourage and help each other. The realization that God calls us to not fret, for it only leads to evil was one I needed to come to, and I probably would not have gotten there if you had not asked for my thoughts on the Psalm. So I thank God you asked! Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8359. Linda,

    This poem made me cry…I especially like that last few lines of it..I’m drinking from the saucer, because my cup has overflowed…

    Thank you Linda for sharing this beautiful poem..
    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, It made me cry, too. I love the line about if I am blessed with courage and strength I won’t ask for any more blessings. Right now, those are the only two things I need more of (well, I guess wisdom, too). Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8360. Linda,

    What a beautiful poem! Yet one sentence seemed to stand out for me …MAY I NEVER BE TOO BUSY TO HELP OTHERS BEAR THEIR LOAD! That has been my prayer for as long as I remember.

    My cup overflowing…!

    Thank you and be blessed mighty in HIM.

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8361. Linda,

    That was a great thought…something that I often struggle with..I give a lot of excuses for my behaviour and expect God to forgive me for them…I forget that Forgiveness is given when you repent and not when you ask excuses…Thank you so much for showing me the difference.

    One more thing , I would like to add your blog to my blogroll..
    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, I do the same thing, always finding excuses. It is so great when God speaks to others what they need to hear through my writing. We sometimes think we are alone in our struggles to grow closer to God and be more like Christ, but we are all the same in so many ways. I would be honored to have you add me to your blogroll. Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8362. I really agree with your thoughts here. They are so important to remember.

    I have noticed that there are times when we would rather make an excuse for something that we have thought, said or done, and we even sometimes are dishonest with ourselves and outright deny that we have sinned in particular thoughts, words, and deeds. One thing that often is underlying this type of obstinacy is an unwillingness to forgive others. If we truly realize that we have sinned and require forgiveness we will also see our need to forgive others.

    Reply

  8363. Seeking forgiveness from others is humbling. It is a time when I have felt God’s presence–thankfully. I know that forgiving myself is often harder, even though I am washed clean by Christ. Why do we continue to carry the cross?

    Reply

  8365. Yep – I totally want to be forgiven. There just is no excuse for my blurting behavior! Thanks.

    Reply

  8366. Linda – Another is Francis Collins who headed the Human Genome Project. He wrote a book called The Language of God: A Scientist Presents Evidence of Belief. Faith is a transformation from head to heart and I think Collins does a great job walking through his own transforming journey–as a scientist to scientist and believer.
    –Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8367. Linda,

    Amen. God is looking for bold men and women who will argue the case of Christ and come to the conclusion that God really exist. The bible calls the thinking of the ungodly or unbelieving futile. That tells me that the people who are in Christ are rather the ones who are thinking straight. Great post beautifully written!

    Blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8368. Linda,

    I loved what you said about the numbers…when you view them as people…blogging expereince becomes more meaningful..at the end of a day to know that you have reached to that many people is a great feeling…

    From my own expereince, what I have noticed is that when I try to penn down my thoughts…it stays more in my mind..Blogging has helped me to grow more in Him…and when you start praying for all your readers…you will see a tremendous change in the results of your ministry.

    Continue writing and be a blessing to many..You never know how many lives you touch with that small amount of time you spent on writing..

    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

    • Rani, Thanks! I find that blogging my thoughts also make room in my head for new thoughts. I like the idea of praying for my readers. It also tells me you are praying for me, since I am one of your readers. I like that. 🙂 Peace, Linda

      Reply

  8369. Amen. And I pray that the Lord will keep your mind and heart alert to hear what He is speaking to you. He will not forget the labor of your love. I enjoy reading your blog. Keep writing and may His blessings be yours today and everyday!

    Blessings and hugs,

    Gladwell

    Reply

    • Gladwell, Thank you for the kind reply. I will keep writing. He has already given me several ideas of things to share, including one that you suggested on Psalm 37. I’m sure when the current list of ideas is used up, He will give me more. Peace, Linda

      Reply

    • Thank you, dear sister in Christ, for your prayers. When I think of what Jesus went through on my behalf this day, it is hard to be too concerned about the little problems in my own life. I have what is important – eternal life – and all else pales by comparison.

      Reply

  8372. Linda,

    I love the way you put it. We have to be loved…redeemed and covered before we can go out there and do the same to the world. As the saying goes…You can’t give what you don’t have. If He washed my feet, than I need to serve others gladly. I love the example He left for us to follow.

    You are a blessed servant!

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8373. You deserted me. I came home tonight so upset about the church – saw you on line and started venting – you went off line 3 minutes later.

    Yes, I’m being silly, but I so wanted to talk with you.

    I love you!

    Reply

  8374. Our pastor talked a bit about what Christ said in anticipation of the cross. He asked, to emphasize the importance of Christ’s words, which you quote here, whether we had ever had a conversation with someone who knew they were dying and who knew they would never see you again. It put in perspective for me the significance of these passages. Your point about preparing them is perfect. He knew He wasn’t going to be with them and needed to prepare them for the journey ahead.

    Reply

    • Not only them, Elizabeth, but us. He DID send them the Counselor (the Holy Spirit), and He sends us the Counselor, too, when we believe. I love that even though He physically left and returned to Heaven, He did not leave His disciples (including us) alone.

      Reply

      • I actually returned to your blog to tell you that I used your blog as a jumping off point for my own today! And, then saw your reply. Yes, He did not leave any of us alone and His words are for us, too. Amen!

      • I read your blog today and noticed the link to this blog entry. Thanks! I was going to comment on yours, but I was too teary eyed and needed to think about it first. I plan to come back and comment as it really touched me.

  8375. I loved this post…I love what you said..Jesus understands all the changes that we go through..The understanding that He went through those changes for me is just humbling me all the more before the cross.He was broken so that heaven had plans about me…He suffered shame and the pain because I will enjoy His peace and joy…

    Thank you for reminding me what the cross had done for me…
    God Bless,
    Rani

    Reply

  8376. Hi Linda,

    Thank you for your comments in my blog…I’m happy to find another blogger who shares the love of God…And thank you for adding me in your blogroll…I will be visiting your blog often..

    God bless your ministry
    Rani John

    Reply

  8377. Linda,

    What a timely word. In a couple of months, my family is about to experiences some major change in our lives. Yet, this morning…as every morning I have to remind myself that He knows the plans He has for us…plans for good and not for evil…to give us a future and hope. More than ever, as each day passes, I know I need to trust in Him more.

    And yes, as Good Friday approaches, I think about the one who know endured a greater change than any we would ever experience in life. JESUS, our Lord. Thank you for this powerful, yet sober reflection.

    Blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8378. Linda –
    Great post. As my post earlier this week indicated, I struggle with change a lot. It is comforting to know that Christ understands this completely. We can rest in Him during these times. –Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8379. good insight. I’ve always thought that self-control was the hardest one…I struggle with it too. My previous Pastor used to say if you have love, you’ll have the rest, that Paul could have stopped with ‘and the fruit of the spirit is love.’ That each of the others flow out of a heart of love – love for Christ, love for others. But I have to agree that in a way each of the other fruits are based in self-denial…I choose to be loving, joyful, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, and gentle. To do so I must have self-control, which, you are right, is all a matter of being submissive and obedient to the spirit. very thought provoking…thanx! 🙂

    Reply

    • Patty, I’m glad you liked this. I write this blog for me, but it is so nice to know others – especially people I know – are reading it and getting something out of it. God’s peace to you.

      Reply

  8380. This one ministered to me. I too…find myself getting irritated about small things…and I have seen God dealing with me on this area time and time again. And well, I don’t think the lesson of patience can be learned in just a few occasions but rather…throughout a lifetime.

    Lord…help us. And thank you for your honesty on this one.

    Blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

    • Gladwell, I agree this is a work of a lifetime. But I know that He who began a good work in me will see it through to completion. I started an empty canvas, and the painting is only partially done. But it is already more beautiful today than it was in the beginning thanks to the Artist.

      Reply

  8381. Great work! I also have got my very own blog I simply realize its tough to write excellent information like this.

    Reply

  8382. Hi Linda. I ask myself that question more often than not. Yes…when I am frustrated, when I feel let down or frightened and uncertain about the BIG PICTURE. But…like the Psalmist confessed…THE LORD IS OUR LIGHT and OUR SALVATION and oh…OUR STRONGHOLD and that knowledge in itself is comforting!

    Blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8383. Hi Linda. I am glad to meet you. And I do hope to get to know you better as time goes by. Meanwhile, I wish and pray that all will be well with you and the ministry in your heart as you write your bit!

    And thank you for putting me on your blogroll.

    Blessings,

    Gladwell

    Reply

  8385. Yes. Faith transforms us. Moves us. I love this. I’ve been thinking a lot about, and posting a lot about change–change in my life and the need for change in the world. Definitely on my heart. Thanks for giving me more the think and pray about. –Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8386. I am glad that this topic was discussed on this blog, totally agree with all the above, but there are some problems in the legal regulation in the light of recent changes in legislation. I would not wish to write here in great detail, much is written on the site http://moslegist.ru … But thanks anyway!

    Reply

  8387. This is so right on the money. After the sermon last week, there were two very angry people who didn’t like what Dale Eble said. Tolerance isn’t a good thing – this spells it out why. Thanks so much.

    Reply

  8388. Was blessed by this seeming simple yet profound truth. I was doing a research of the temple tax amount in mordern currency when I came across this article. Thank God the price has been paid for the believer. Thanks alot . Amen.

    Reply

    • No, I haven’t. But after I found the quote I Googled him and read some very interesting information about his life and theology. I really liked this quote, too, and may have to find some of his works to read.

      Reply

  8391. Linda, what you said is so true. What a great devotion! The passage below is taken from the 36th chapter of Ezekiel and is a favorite of mine.

    21But I had pity for mine holy name, which the house of Israel had profaned among the heathen, whither they went.

    22Therefore say unto the house of Israel, thus saith the Lord GOD; I do not this for your sakes, O house of Israel, but for mine holy name’s sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither ye went.

    23And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes.

    24For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land.

    25Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.

    26A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

    27And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.

    28And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.

    Reply

    • Check out the story in Mark 9:14-34 where Jesus heals the boy with an evil spirit. Jesus says, “Everything is possible for him who believes.” And the boy’s father replies, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” I think this boy’s father had the same trouble you are having. He believed with his head but had a hard time believing with his heart. But remember, God is good. If you ask him to help you overcome the unbelief in your heart, he will. In his time.

      Reply

    • Janice, 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” I know I’ve been forgiven because I trust and believe God when He says in His Word that He forgives me. In chapter 2 of 1 John, the apostle goes on to say, “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins.” Ask for forgiveness, and God is pleased to forgive.

      Reply

      • I pray that the series will be used by the Holy Spirit to enable you to control that small but powerful rudder! You will be blessed by Al Martin. He deals with matters in a very thorough and biblical fashion.

        “Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” (Proverbs 16:32)

        “…the fruit of the Spirit is… self-control” (Gal 5)

  8395. I all too often seek out those who I know will support what I have said, just to ease my guilt. Luckily the Holy Spirit is far stronger than the words of agreement I seek and I repent. Thanks for reminding me that words are powerful.

    Reply

  8396. Thanks for visiting my blog and I’m glad you liked my post. Thank you also for adding me to your blogroll, it’s nice to be able to share the things we learn with others.

    Reply

  8397. What’s the verse that talks about Lord be the gatekeeper of my mouth, or something like that. I so need this constant reminder. Thanks for writing this.

    Reply

  8398. Oh, I love thinking about the 3 holies as the trinity! I’ll keep that with me as I sing songs that use that verse!

    Thanks for stopping by my blog and leaving such a thoughtful comment!

    Reply

  8399. Linda – I’m so happy you wrote about this. I was thinking the other day how much I love those bumper stickers and the message they speak to us all. And, of course seeking God’s grace so that we can wag more. –Godspeed, Elizabeth

    Reply

  8400. Here I am already reading and commenting on another one of your entries. I know this one was the very manna that the Lord was longing to serve up fresh for me today! Thank you, and thank the Lord.

    The past couple of months I have been fighting the temptation to behave like Hem and Haw, and have been losing the battle a good deal of the time.

    The truth that God is unchanging is also something that I like to emphasize in my entries, and I recently quoted James 1:17. I love to meditate on hymns. Below are some beautiful lyrics that reinforce this truth.

    “Great is thy faithfulness, O God my father
    There is no shadow of turning with Thee
    Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not
    As Thou hast been, Thou for ever will be
    Great is thy faithfulness
    Great is thy faithfulness
    Morning by morning new mercies I see
    All I have needed thy hand hath provided
    Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me”

    Reply

    • Thanks! I have been behaving like Hem and Haw just today, and need to move forward. I love the line in this hymn “All I have needed they hand hath provided.” Great reminder that even if God does not provide everything I think I want, He has and will provide ALL that I need.

      Reply

  8402. The inifinte, loving, merciful Saviour. The almighty Lord of Hosts, the everlasting Father. Our time is in His hands. There is none like Him or beside Him. In all of lifes changes may He be glorified, may His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. 🙂

    God bless sister. Keep seeking Jesus, keep finding peace. 🙂

    Reply

  8403. The references you made are that God does not change. That is likely true for many with solid faith. However, for those doubting their faith or believe their relationship with God is changing, they may be thinking “Who Moved My God?” Those people may need to find the new location in the maze. Alternatively, they may just be temporarily lost and need to learn that God has not changed (or changed his location), and they just need to get back on the right path.

    Reply

    • Ron, I agree that there are those for whom it may seem that God does change or has changed location. But things are not always as they seem, and this is one place where I would argue that is true. I truly believe God does not change, though my understanding of him might (and has over the years). Thanks for this perspective. I will add those people you mention to my prayers.

      Reply

  8404. Amen. God is the original ‘true north.’ If we keep our eyes on Him, we will never be lost.

    Good post. Thanks

    Carolyn / internetelias.wordpress.com

    Reply

  8405. It’s like you can read my mind! I was talking to one of my patients today and she was talking about her depression and current struggles and for the first time I could actually relate to her and understood what she was saying. I could tell she knew I understood and she opened up even more. Despite the fact I did very little talking, this time was good for both of us. I hate having depression, but it is making me a better nurse.

    Reply

  8410. Whatever it costs, whatever it takes, may we be vessels useful and pleasing to our Saviour.

    James1
    2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds,
    3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.
    4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

    Reply

    • Matthew, Thanks for coming back. It’s nice to have made a connection with another blogger who wants to be all that God wants for us to be. I love the James passage. Actually, I like all of James. It’s a wonderfully convicting book. Peace to you.

      Reply

  8411. I think it’s gonna take a lot more fire, and a lot more time before he sees His face in my w/o blemish! Thank God he knows when I’ve had enough for one sitting.

    Reply

  8412. WOW! You’re speaking to ME!! No doubt in my mind lol. I am definitely going through that refinement process, especially in my mind. The attitudes and beliefs I had pertaining to business, He is burning it up! I’m now understanding how to have balance and understand Kingdom business principles! Thanks for sharing…

    Reply

  8415. I like this idea-that instead of sacrificing something that is “bad” for you (and really, what people give up for Lent is rarely very bad), you’ll do your best to create something positive for others. That takes a lot of discipline (as you said), but also a lot of initiative!

    Reply

  8417. Oh Linda – this is just how so many of us feel put into words. Thanks so much for the reminder of His promises! You are so very, very right!

    Reply

  8419. Jeremy Camp is one of my favorite artists! Did you know that he is headlining the WAY-FM “Speaking Louder Than Before” tour with Chasen, Jason Gray, and The Afters? They are also giving away a FREE Jeremy Camp download! Just click on this link http://www.givmusic.com/2009/11/free-download-from-jeremy-camp/ for the free download. You can also watch a music video, check out upcoming tour information to see if they are coming to your city, AND purchase your tickets.

    Reply

  8420. So Linda — isn’t this really what Romans 8:35-39 tells us? Christ is our champion in protecting us from separation from the love of God from virtually ANY source!. If that translates to “defense attorney,” then so much the better. 🙂

    Reply

  8421. Because of the poverty of Haiti before this disaster, even those outside Port-au-Prince who were not directly affected (meaning their buildings did not collapse) will soon be suffering as a result of this disaster. The villages away from the capital rely daily on supplies of food and fuel being delivered. Those supply lines no longer exist, and the world is focused on Port-au-Prince (as well it should be). But the people is the smaller villages don’t shop at Costco and don’t have a store of food in their pantries to get them through this difficult time. Had more people cared about Haiti before this earthquake those not directly affected might be in a position to help their friends and family in Port-au-Prince. Instead, they remain in need of our help as well.

    Reply

  8422. Some of my co-workers were talking about Haiti in the lunch room. Most of them didn’t even know where it was. They were so upset by the devastation. They were concerned that they wouldn’t have food or water until we arrived with supplies. Then I mentioned the poverty level there and the lack of food and fresh drinking water. I said they should have been concerned about the Haitians before the earthquake. It shouldn’t take a disaster for us to care for others.

    Reply

  8425. But, if all were Mary’s, who would teach the children in Sunday school; set out communion for the faithful; compose and print the bulletins; feed, clothe, teach our own children at our own homes; earn the money necessary to run our own households AND give to the poor? Seems like the Mary part is so much easier, but if everyone thought it was the more important role, how would things get done on this earth?

    Reply

    • True, we can’t all be Mary all of the time. But I do think if we aren’t all a bit like Mary at least some of the time, we spend too much time worrying about the tasks we have to complete in our role as Martha and grow weary in doing them. If we spend a little time as Mary did at the feet of Jesus we then have more joy in the work He has planned for us to do. It’s all about balance.

      Thanks for commenting. 🙂

      Reply

  8426. I’m truly sorry I made the comment about your gloves. I’d never hurt you on purpose for anything in the world. I’ll be more careful about my quips – I promise 🙂

    Reply

    • Lynne, All is forgiven! Please don’t stop with the quips because sometimes they are right on and are clearly a message from God. The poker comment you made comes to mind. 🙂 It was just what I needed to hear.

      Reply

  8427. What a great joke! I could never think up something half as good, particularly on the fly…maybe Benton has a future in comedy?

    Thanks for the laugh-I needed one today!

    Reply

  8428. Thank you for posting a review of “Same Kind of Different as Me.” I work with Thomas Nelson, and we would love to follow your blog and hear what readers think of this exciting book. I also want to let you know that Ron and Denver have just released a new book “What Difference Do It Make?” which updates readers on their activity since the last book came out. Please contact me if you are interested in receiving a complimentary copy of the new book for review on your site.

    Thanks!

    Reply

  8429. Of a sure, we all need help. We can only get it, when we realize we need it. Oh! that our heart would realize how much we need God’s help to carry our burden through Christ Grace.

    Reply

  8432. “I also “get” how Christianity is different from the other major religions of the world. …Christianity is not about what I need to do to earn my own way to heaven. It is about what God did so that I could be with Him in heaven for eternity. He knows I am incapable of following all the rules perfectly and so doesn’t require that I do.”

    Beautifully said. 🙂

    Reply

  8434. Thanks. It is challenging to turn one-time visitors into repeat visitors, but I’m still working on it. All the best to you!

    Reply

  8435. Congratulations on being listed as the fastest growing WordPress blog this morning! I’ve been blogging for about eight months and haven’t achieved that status, so I thought I’d come check out how it’s done! I appreciate your topics and thoughtful presentations. Your four-part series on forgiveness is very interesting. I’ve posted a few items on that important topic over the months as well.

    Keep up the good work!

    Reply

    • Mike, it helps if you know someone with a longstanding, successful blog who gives you a plug. I just hope I can keep some of the readers my friend Jack sent my way.

      Reply

  8437. You are writing from the heart, and as always, doing it well. I hope you stick with it — there are always moments when a blogger gets tired — because you are making us all think. Which is what this internet thing should be all about.

    Reply

  8438. Thanks for blogging, Linda. Any friend of C.S. Lewis is a friend of mine! I hope Jack Bogdanski’s link provides you some well-deserved readership….

    Reply

  8439. I don‘t know If I said it already but …Cool site, love the info. I do a lot of research online on a daily basis and for the most part, people lack substance but, I just wanted to make a quick comment to say I’m glad I found your blog. Thanks, 🙂

    …..Frank Scurley

    Reply

  8440. Oh this is a wonderful post! I love to see married couples loving each other through the ‘thick and thin’ of it. I especially like when sing each other’s praises. Congratulations on your 23 years together and here’s to the next 23!

    ~K!

    Reply

  8442. Linda, I agree! You summed it up perfectly. I too have so much to be thankful for. Thank you for the reminder. It is amazing that when you stop and thank our Heavenly Father for all the blessings he has given us they are so much more than the pile of “little things” that tend to get us down.

    Reply

  8443. I do get religion!! It’s called faith, believing in something you cannot see. The real test of faith is while going through a trial in your life , trusting God entirely through it all. I know the many trials I have endured were so much easier because of Jesus. There’s such a peace in my heart and I love it!! I love the fact that it’s so much more simple than so many others believe. For when God sent his son Jesus to die for the sins of the world he totally meant for each and every one of us. To go on to let us know that by believing in our hearts and confessing with our mouths that Jesus Christ is lord, that we can be saved from this trying world and have the hope that we can live eternally with him in heaven forever and ever. WOW what a awesome hope I have .

    Reply
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  277. Pingback: About my Paint Chip Poetry Page | Sue's Trifles
  278. Pingback: #Paint-Chip Poem: When I’m Old – Culture Shocks
  279. Pingback: Arizona interlude – ….Bilocalalia….
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  284. Pingback: When I’m Old - Navigating This Thing We Call Life
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  441. Pingback: Thoughts on “Discovering My Purpose” | Linda Kruschke's Blog
  442. Pingback: Thoughts on “Discovering My Purpose” | Linda Kruschke's Blog
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  489. Pingback: Children – A Poem (via Linda Kruschke’s Blog) | My Blog
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