The Stream's Edge

Jeanne Doyon - If you haven't joined us yet...

2017-03-28T19:37:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,

It's been about two years since I moved over to JeanneDoyon.com. Everything is under one roof now. My website with speaking info and The Stream's Edge blog.

If you haven't joined us yet, I hope you will. You can catch up on new content, see my new logo and beautiful website design.

You can also subscribe to the The Stream's Edge blog and/or ministry updates there.

Join in the conversation on my latest series on the book of Esther as well as print off with helpful notes for each chapter as we go.

I love the book of Esther and want to share it with you.

Also, I became a grandmother this year. I traveled to China with my daughter who adopted a little boy.

There is so much to catch up on. I miss you and hope to see you soon,

Jeanne

Subscription Information: Important Message About The Stream's Edge

2015-10-14T15:35:00.000-04:00

Hello faithful friends,

Since moving to my new domain there have been steep learning curves. One, was to think I had figured out how to share my new subscriber link to you so you could continue receiving The Stream's Edge...

Long story...two different subscriber platforms...and I had no idea.

I guess we don't stop learning till we're dead.

Please forgive me again for writing from my Blogger site. I hate to lose you as my readers. If you would like to continue receiving my blog, The Stream's Edge, please log onto my new blog page at http://JeanneDoyon.com/blog

You will see the subscribe field on the right side. Please fill in your email address there. If you are already subscribed, it will tell you so. And, if you are not, we will finally be getting things straightened out.

Thanks for your understanding and I hope you will follow me there.

Blessings,

Jeanne

The Stream's Edge has a New Address - Will You Come Visit?

2015-09-29T19:55:00.000-04:00

Happy Fall everyone! I'm Saying Goodbye to Blogger...

I have a brand new website and a new address at JeanneDoyon.com and I hope you will join me there.

I now have my ministry of writing and speaking all under one address at JeanneDoyon.com

It won't be long before I get my blog archives moved in, but for now I'd like to invite you to subscribe to The Stream's Edge there.

Due to Mail Chimp's spam rules, I can't add you as a subscriber. But I don't want you to miss the updates. You can sign up right here:

I am excited about my new site. It's had a make-over and I'd love to hear what you think.

In case you may have missed my most recent posts at my new place, you can hop over from here. You can sign up for my blog (on the blog page) and ministry updates (on the HOME page).

Most recent posts:

Facing a Big Task - What Have I gotten Myself Into?

I Need to Rest...but My Brain Won't Shut Off

I love bringing you my thoughts on life and how God's Word speaks to us today.

With His Many Blessings....see you at my new place,

Time to Move into My New Home

2015-09-08T09:00:00.000-04:00

I have moved into my new home at JeanneDoyon.com [Click to Tweet]

That's right, I have a brand new website.

That means I'm leaving Blogger behind. My archived posts will be here until I finish moving them to the new website.

And, The Stream's Edge will continue....it is just getting a face lift. [Click to Tweet]

So, I hope you will jump on over to see my latest blog posts there.

Click for more of this post

The Mind Connection - By Joyce Meyer: A Book Review

2015-08-31T07:00:00.000-04:00

I was asked to review Joyce Meyer’s newest book called, The Mind Connection (releases 9/1/15). Mind you, I am not a Joyce Meyer follower per se. I don’t get her television programming nor have I heard her speak. But I have reviewed a few of other her books. You can read them here:

Get Your Hopes Up!

You Can Begin Again

Let God Fight Your Battles

I enjoyed these titles and I think their timely message speaks to people today.

However, The Mind Connection is a disappointment. [Click to Tweet]

It feels a lot more like positive thinking rather than the Hope of Christ. The writing is simplistic and doesn’t have the same voice as the previous titles I mentioned. To be honest I had a difficult time staying focused while reading it and didn’t finish.

Let me share a little of The Mind Connection with you.

Thoughts like on page 29:

“Insufficient funds can pressure the best of us, but we can weather the storm if we think right during the difficulty. Avoid thinking the worst and try thinking the best.

If you have lost your job, then aggressively look for another job, all the time expecting it to be better than the last one.

If you need money, be willing to work at anything until you are able to do what you truly desire to do. When we resist laziness and apathy, God gets on board and makes amazing things happen…”

Or this on page 51:

"Put God First:

I don’t know how anyone can be consistently happy if they don’t believe in God. Oddly enough, some people who don’t believe make it their mission in life to try to diminish the faith of others. They are unhappy and they want to make others unhappy too…"

Page 52 continues…

“It was quite life-changing for me when I realized that God wants each of us to be thoroughly happy and to fully enjoy life.”

Chapter 18 has some good content:

Thinking about what God thinks about You is the title of chapter 18. I gleaned some good things, partly because I think I am in a place where I need to hear its message. We can go our whole lives thinking things about ourselves that others have said about us. But, they are not the truth. Here is a bit from those pages:

Page 192 begins:

“There are many voices that try to shape the way we think about every part of ourselves—our appearance, our abilities, our potential, and our identity. But those voices can be misleading…

The Bible teaches that our true identity, worth and value of a believer is found in Christ…Wrong thinking about ourselves can lead to what I refer to as a case of “mistaken identity.”

Page 194:

"We may not do everything right, but God views us as right through our faith in Jesus and His work on the cross for us.”

My Thoughts about The Mind Connection by Joyce Meyer: [Click to Tweet]

Overall, the book's content feels strained. There are bits of good wording but most of it reads like a stranger wrote it – someone not totally connected to its message. So, my suggestion is to skip this title. I think Joyce has similar themes that are better articulated in her other resources.

I do believe there is a mind-body-spirit connection, but caution as to how much is our responsibility to control is a fine line. It is God who is in the mind and heart transforming business. And that, I believe happens when we know Him and His word more intimately.

Thanks for allowing me express my opinion,

Jeanne

Don't feel like you have to take my word for it. You can find more information about The Mind Connection by Joyce Meyer on Amazon:

A New Season - Change is Exciting

2015-08-28T08:00:00.000-04:00

School buses are beginning to rumble by this week. A signal of the end of summer. I am hanging on to what's left of it. But, Fall is the most beautiful time here in New England.

Image courtesy of Morguefile.com

It's a New Season...and Change is Exciting

Photo by Jeanne Doyon

Seasons change. It's not easy, but we need to embrace it. [Click to Tweet]

There is always something good ahead even though it is difficult to let go of what we have now.

New can be scary but also exciting.

That goes for websites too.

I have been writing my heart out on Blogger for five years. It's hard to believe. I am comfortable here. I know my way around. But, it's time to grow--time for a new season. Time to change.

So, I am introducing you to my new website [Click to Tweet]

JeanneDoyon.com

I do hope you will follow me there. The Stream's Edge will be there waiting for you along with a place to sign up to receive new posts. I will have all my "stuff" under one roof...speaking ministry, topics and my blog.

Everything here on Blogger will stay for now until I figure out what I want to do with it. I need time to embrace the new season. The change is exciting but also a little scary. Big steps usually are!

I'd love for you to share my new site with friends. Be sure to visit my blog and add your email address. And, I would love to hear about your new season...And, calling all Followers...it is time to change.

What changes are you facing? I know God will meet you there... [Click to Tweet]

Jeanne

Summer Moments - Photo Gallery

2015-08-18T11:31:00.003-04:00

What a lovely summer. We are enjoying our new screen porch. The weather has been gorgeous. We've spent time with family. We celebrated our 35th wedding anniversary.

Here is a glimpse of some of our summer moments:

Family vacation

Peaceful places

Flying stunts

Nightly Visitors

Fresh Basil

The Backyard Garden

So thankful!

Jeanne

This photo blog comes at a time when I am preparing for my fall events. Thanks for your grace as I focus on them. I would love your prayer for these:

Teaching a 4-week study of the book of Philemon (Sept 16 - Oct 7)

Speaking at a MOPS group meeting October 21.

Speaking at a women's retreat at Singing Hills Conference Center in NH (Oct 30 - Nov 1)

For more information on how I can bring a message to your next women's event, visit my website.

All photos by Jeanne Doyon c. 2015

What Do You Like To Do For Fun?

2015-08-14T07:30:00.000-04:00

I have been asked, "So...what do you like to do for fun?"

This is another question that causes me to pause...what do I like to do for fun? So often I clean, write, cook, read....

But what DO I like to do for fun? [Click to Tweet]

This year I have realized I don't consciously make time for celebrating. I'm trying to remedy that.

Well, this past week John and I took the tandem kayak to the lake. I don't think I stopped smiling. The weather was idyllic. Sunny. Breezy. And, we went early so the lake was quiet.

We dropped anchor next to a small island. John swam. I waded. We had packed a lunch and enjoyed a perfect morning together.

Have you read my article called, Going Tandem?

Did you know they call tandem kayaks Divorce Boats? [Click to Tweet]

Then, on Sunday after church we went to a classic car cruise with friends. There were over 2500 classic cars on display.

Our assignment: Find a car from our birth year...

Here's mine: 1958 Cadillac Convertible

Here's John's: 1959 Ford Pickup

We had fun! I even chose two fun cars to photograph because they're pink. We decided they must have been the first Mary Kay cars.

1955 Victoria Fairlane

Take time to have fun no matter your circumstances. It will fuel your joy.

"This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."

John and I are celebrating 35 years of marriage this week - and having fun together.

So, what do you like to do for fun?

Jeanne

Get your copy of: Little Book of Great Dates: 52 Creative Ideas to Make Your Marriage Fun:

Photos by Jeanne Doyon

Sharing Opinions – Yours Matters

2015-08-11T10:05:00.000-04:00

Sharing Opinions – yours matters and so does mine. [Click to Tweet]

Have you been able to read between the lines all these years—to discover I have trouble sharing my opinions about things? It’s something I have struggled with since I was young.

I came home with more outfits that I hated and never wore because I couldn’t tell my mom the truth about what I thought while in the dressing room.

And, then, the one time I just had to have a faux bunny fur hat (I think I was about 9 years old at the time), the moment I saw an old lady wearing one at church, I never donned it again.

I don't like talking politics. I avoid Apologetics. I dislike confrontation. When someone asks,

"What do you think?"

I freeze.

It’s been tough being me sometimes. [Click to Tweet]

It’s easier not to like something rather than say I like it and be disappointed.

Now, those of you who have psych backgrounds may have me labeled—don’t tell me, I don’t want to know.

Whatever the cause, I struggle with this.

I like everyone else to be happy. So, it doesn’t matter whether we go for pizza or Chinese food. I’ll take whichever flavor is left on the dessert dish. I'd rather let everyone else choose first.

You're probably thinking--Really, Jeanne?

Or, maybe somebody out there is tracking with me because you struggle too.

I really do want to grow in this area...

That’s one reason I have said yes to reviewing books and movies here at The Stream’s Edge. It has forced me to be honest with myself and others about what I think. And, I think it has been a good stretching thing for me.

My theory is that all of this is rooted in fear.

Fear of rejection
Afraid what others will think or say
Afraid of not being accepted or liked
Afraid of looking or sounding foolish

Does this ring true with anyone else?

Does anyone else out there struggles with this? I would love to hear about your journey.

Maybe we could start the S.Y.O.S.G…

Share Your Opinion Support Group

Or, maybe the M.O.M.S. ...

My Opinion Matters Society

I'm learning how to take a risk with my opinions, to be myself. There is one question I can answer without being afraid of what others think...the one when Jesus asks,

"Who do you say that I am?"

What do you think? Now that I've bared my soul...I’d love to hear your opinion!

Jeanne

Images courtesy of Morguefile.com

Jo Ann Fore writes this book called, When a Woman Finds Her Voice:

Is Your Door Open or Closed? I'm Loving the Living Word

2015-08-05T16:47:00.000-04:00

When I open my Bible, the words leap off the page in living color. I'm loving the living word. Just this week alone, I have pondered passages like:

"I will do something new." Isaiah 43:19

I found myself asking, "What is it, Lord? You are always doing something new; help me not to miss it. I can get so busy focusing on other things..."

You see, I believe the Lord has been closing some doors in my life (Click to Tweet This). They may or may not be closed forever, but when you sense the click of the door latch, I really think God is speaking. It's as if He doesn't want me spending my energy on THAT right now.

My closed doors were pretty clear.

I was scheduled to teach three local community education classes. And, no one signed up. That's pretty clear, right?
I planned a writer's getaway for women but only one registered; it wasn't enough to meet the financial cost. Another closed door.

Closed doors are hard. (Click to Tweet This) They can be discouraging. But, why would I want to keep pounding on a closed one?

So, the question becomes, is your door open or closed?

I asked the Lord to show me the doors that ARE open.

Speaking
Teaching the Bible
Writing

As I thanked Him for the answer, I noticed the following verses:

"...to open doors before Him so that gates will not shut; I will go before you and make the rough places smooth..." Isaiah 45:1-2

"Commit to me the work of My hands..." Isaiah 45:11

It is HIS WORK! I am just the vessel. And, I do believe when the Lord opens a door of opportunity, He will go before me.

I knew I needed to thank Him...for showing me this in His word!

Lord, it is your work and I commit it to you. Help me to focus on the doors you have opened. Shut every door that doesn't have a part of your will for me. Let me leave those doors for others who have been called and led to open them.

A closed door can feel like a frustration but when we realize there are open doors nearby, it will help us to take notice. We can step through the door God has planned for us.

Do you have open or closed doors in your life right now? How can I pray for you as you seek His direction?
Will you also pray for me?

Jeanne

Also, read this great post by Cindi McMenamin on Crosswalk called, 3 Ways to Know if an Open Door is from God

This John Orgberg title is on my list to read:

Photos by Jeanne Doyon

Fasting Discoveries—While AWOL from Facebook

2015-07-29T10:09:00.000-04:00

While AWOL from Facebook: Fasting, Part 2

Read part one here

It’s been two weeks since I set out to surgically remove Facebook from my daily routine. You may think it extreme; it is. Cutting out my Facebook surfing time was difficult but necessary. I needed the break.

Is it forever? I don’t think so.

But taking the hiatus was a good thing to do and the discoveries I made while unplugged—helpful.

I learned that:

Facebook isn’t going anywhere.
Checking Facebook multiple times a day isn’t necessary.
Most of the messages lit up in my toolbar aren’t important.
I get a lot more done when I ignore Facebook’s presence.
People who need to reach me know how to find me.
I need to use Facebook for my ministry, but I don’t need to be tied to my timeline.
I can take advantage of pre-scheduled posts to be more hands-off during the week.
I can get by without a news feed.

For those of you who write or speak, you constantly hear you need to:

Build your platform
Create a web presence
Be visible

But, how many hoops do we need to jump?

I can’t help but think that God is able to open doors that no man can shut…and shut doors that cannot be opened. God is my agent. He is the one who causes kings and rulers to rise up…and ministry leaders to shine.

So, the power that indwells me—the same power that raised Jesus from the dead—will equip me to do all God asks because:

His ways are not my ways.
He confounds the strong and raises the weak.
His Holy Spirit is my ghost writer.

And I trust Him with every part of my being that His plans for me will succeed when I listen to His voice and respond to His timing.

Facebook is a frail, human institution that is not all-powerful.

Facebook's ever-changing algorithms cannot compete with my immutable God (Click to Tweet) —the One who is the same yesterday, today and forever.

He is known for parting Red Seas, toppling city walls, healing the sick, raising the dead, calling those who will hear, to follow Him….

And, He will establish my ministry in His way and His time.

I often have presupposed ideas of how things are going to turn out, but His ways are ALWAYS more amazing.

I don’t want to miss His miracle because it doesn’t look like my preconceived idea.

It didn’t work for the Jewish or Roman rulers.
It didn’t work for Jesus’ brothers.
It didn’t work for Judas.

God works the most miraculous things when we refuse to keep Him in a box.

I know all this. Yet, I can fall into being a sheep and following the herd. Doing what everyone else is doing. I need to be reminded that I am me.

I am not a carbon copy or a cookie cutter girl. (Click to Tweet)

And the most wonderful thing is, God has created me to be just the right person to do the things He needs done in my world. My story. My personality. My gifts and talents—and yes, even my weaknesses are all known by Him.

I am unique.

And, He has created you a one-of-a-kind too.

So, How will you trust Him beyond your limited view? (Click to Tweet)

My Hopes for My Facebook Fast

2015-07-22T07:30:00.000-04:00

Fasting isn't for sissies. And fasting isn't ALL about food.

This past week I decided to fast from Facebook. (Click to Tweet)

For those of you who are raising your eyebrows, bear with me. For those who aren't, I know you understand.

Facebook is a time robber

Facebook is like sifting through gobs of garbage to find a gem

Facebook isn't the only way I can contact people

Facebook has news that isn't news, and truth that isn't truth. Often we find it difficult to tell the difference unless we research every page that shares a link.

I guess I finally decided that something had to give.

I found myself scrolling through the news feed much to often and really am not gaining anything of real worth.

Out of boredom? Maybe.
Because I crave interaction? Getting warmer.
Because I desire the connection and kudos of others? Bingo!

If any of you struggle with this too, I would love to hear from you.

I have way too many things to be attending to and taking a break from Facebook is a good idea.

I am designing a new website.

I am writing retreat messages for this fall.

I have two book projects in differing stages of un-doneness.

Not to mention clutter that has taken over areas of my house like uninvited house guests.

Just a note: I have tackled much of the clutter and it feels like a burden lifted.

Someone suggested I put a dollar in a jar for every hour I resist the temptation to check Facebook. Not sure I have enough dollars for that plan, but I do plan to reward myself for the productivity increase I anticipate.

Any suggestions?

In the meantime, the Lord has whispered a word during my quiet time I would like to share with you.

If we know Christ we are called to be:

Ambassadors
Ministers of Reconciliation

WOW!!

What might that look like for you?
I can tell you that I am doing lots of thinking about it.

Here is an free image you can share:

I'll keep you posted on the fast....in the meantime, I would love to hear your thoughts.

Be sure to read part two of this post: Fasting Discoveries--While AWOL from Facebook

Jeanne

When Clouds Roll in and You're Not Sure What to Do Next

2015-07-16T08:47:00.000-04:00

Join me today at the Christian Communicator's Blog where I share a time the clouds had rolled in...

My message then is just as true today as I struggle to discern the path to take for my writing and speaking. Timeless. Relevant.

Because it is all about our day to day relationship with the Lord of Glory. Stop by and leave a comment about what cloudy circumstances have taught you...

Ministry (and life) is all about discerning the open doors and invitations to use our gifts to share the message of Christ. So, how do we handle those times of lull, when not much is happening and we are unsure of what to do next?

This is a question I’ve asked myself recently, after breaking my foot while speaking at a women’s retreat. My plan to leave my job and pursue writing and speaking full-time seemed to have a huge YIELD sign descend from above. Because of the fracture, I wasn’t able to finish my last week at the office, leaving without any goodbyes; I had to cancel the second weekend of speaking at the women’s retreat. What did it all mean? His plan obviously altered mine, but for what purpose....

Read more of, When the Clouds Descend... and join the conversation.

See you there,

Jeanne

Someday Home by Lauraine Snelling - A Book review

2015-07-15T21:08:00.000-04:00

Reading is one of life’s pleasures.

Finding a good author is discovering a friend with a great imagination. (Click to Tweet)

If you are looking for a good story, I recommend a new book by Lauraine Snelling.

I have never read anything by Lauraine Snelling until now. Her book called, Someday Home: A Novel, is delightful. She drew me in right away with her characters—three women who find themselves needing a home.

I identified with each of them in a different way.

Lynn has lost her husband and doesn’t want to leave her home. Her situation made me think of my mom who just lost her mom last year and my dad five years ago. She is trying to make all of those financial decisions based on whether it’s best for her to move to a smaller house. None of them are easy.

Judith spent her life caring for her parents and their stately home with the promise that she would be cared for after they’re gone. She discovers that’s not the case at all. She has nothing; no home, not even an education.

Angela has just been served divorce papers. Enough said.

The author weaves a wonderful tale of friendship, forgiveness and discovery as they become housemates; and I loved every minute of it.

Because of reading, Someday Home: A Novel, I am on the lookout of more stories by Lauraine Snelling. She is a wonderful writer and has a deep understanding of what women face along life’s pathway.

What are you reading this summer? (Click to Tweet)

Jeanne

Someday Home by Lauraine Snelling is published by FaithWords. It released on July 7, 2015. You can order a copy from Amazon—a perfect book to take on your summer vacation.

Available in Kindle, paperback or Audible versions.

An advanced publish copy was provided for this review by FaithWords

A Whirlwind Month - Catching Up

2015-07-08T08:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Summer! I can't believe it's July already.

June was full of fun stuff like my birthday (June 25) and a family vacation to Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. Our kids are spread out all over the country so we planned a week where we could all meet and chill out together.

Luray Caverns in Virginia Photo by Jeanne Doyon

We enjoyed visiting Luray Caverns and Harper's Ferry. We loved our family time together around the table.

The end of a grueling hike - Looking on Harper's Ferry, VA

Then I spent a week in Maine with my daughters to visit family there.

I think I am finally caught up on laundry; I grocery shopped to restock the shelves; And, I am home for awhile.

I did have two guest posts air if you would like to take a look. Both are at Everlasting Dust Blog. Tiffany Small is on a missions trip and she asked if she could reprint a couple of my previous posts while she is out of the country.

Gleaning By the Ocean

Spiritual Skeet Shooting

What are you doing this summer?

Jeanne

Where the Healing Begins

2015-06-24T07:02:00.000-04:00

My guest today is Laurie Coombs. You won't want to miss where the healing begins in her new book:

Letters from My Father's Murderer

By Laurie Coombs

I didn’t want to revisit my past, but I knew I needed to. I had already seen God move mightily on my behalf in the short time since giving my life to Christ, but I knew He wasn’t finished yet.

Healing begins the moment we allow Jesus complete access to the darkness contained within our souls. (Click to Tweet)

Darkness must flee in the presence of light, in the presence of Jesus, but light cannot go where it is not permitted. Doors must be opened for light’s rays to touch our darkest dark. And at this point, I was flinging doors open left and right, begging, Come, Lord Jesus, come.

Soon, I heard God’s gentle whisper––“It’s time to forgive.”

I knew what God was calling me to. I knew I was being called to forgive Anthony, the man who murdered my dad. (Click to Tweet) But quite honestly, I thought I had already done that. Yet over the course of the next several weeks, God slowly showed me that, while I had forgiven Anthony as far as I was capable, I needed His grace to forgive completely, to forgive unconditionally.

But then God took it a step further––“Love your enemy,” He said.

At that, I cried out to God and said, “Okay, God, I get this whole forgiveness thing, but love my enemy? How am I to do that?”

I wrestled with what God was calling me to do, but I had read account after account in Scripture of God redeeming losses. Of God healing physical, emotional, and spiritual wounds. I saw Jesus’s heart toward the brokenhearted, and I believed God could do all that for me as well. I didn’t want my faith to be just a belief system. I wanted it to be real. I wanted it to impact my life. I wanted it to change the way I lived. So I followed, believing wholeheartedly that God would deliver. That He would faithfully keep His promises.

And He did.

What began with a simple, seemingly insignificant call to love and forgive my enemy led to years of correspondence with the man who murdered my dad, through which I witnessed God do the impossible. I have seen God redeem a situation that seemed without hope or purpose. He has brought good out of evil, love out of hate, and peace out of despair. God has truly worked all things for good in my life. And I believe with all my heart that He will do that for you as well, if you let Him.

I pray you will.

You see, God has not left us to sit in our pain. (Click to Tweet) Jesus came to heal. He is our redeemer, and I know it is His desire to lift each of us out of our despair and bring us in—to a new, better place. A place rich in beauty and blessings. But in order to get there, we must be willing to allow God unhindered access to all the pain and bitterness and anger in our souls. And we must be willing to forgive.

For this is where our healing begins.

Letters from My Father’s Murderer: A Journey of Forgiveness––which tells an incredible true story of grace, mercy, and the redemptive power of God––has just been released. It’s available wherever books are sold. Be sure to pick up your copy today!

Laurie Coombs is a passionate writer and speaker on the issues of forgiveness, redemption, and the hope found in Jesus. She is the author of Letters from My Father’s Murderer: A Journey of Forgiveness, an incredible true story of grace, mercy, and the redemptive power of God. Her story was featured in Billy Graham’s film, Heaven, and she is a featured writer and blogger for iBelieve and Crosswalk. Laurie and her husband, Travis, make their home in Nevada along with their two daughters, Ella and Avery.

For more information about Laurie or to book her for a speaking engagement, visit LaurieCoombs.org. And be sure to connect with her on her blog, Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest.

You can order a copy of Letters from My Father's Murderer: A Journey of Forgiveness

You can also find it at:

You Can Begin Again: Book by Joyce Meyer

2015-06-20T20:16:00.002-04:00

Have you lost your job?

Are you facing singleness again?

Do you fear the unknown of a diagnosis?

Have you made mistakes you regret? (Click to Tweet)

I know many who face a daunting future. They’re not sure of tomorrow and afraid of what to expect.

And, that fear drowns out hope.

But, the message of the Gospel is new life and new beginnings. It is overcoming sin by way of the cross. It is rising above our circumstances to see that our hope is in Christ. Because of His redemption, we no longer have to stay stuck in our cycle of pain.

Click for more of this post

An Unexpected Lesson About Rest

2015-06-17T06:00:00.000-04:00

Rest has been a theme here at The Stream's Edge. A message I need to hear. Maybe you do too.

Join my guest, Dr. Michelle Bengston today with her thoughts about the subject. Often the unexpected lessons are the ones we hear the loudest.

Welcome, Dr. Michelle...

Click for more of this post

What You Really Need to Mark Down: Remembering for the Journey

2015-06-10T19:28:00.001-04:00

Rebecca Hatch is my guest today at The Stream's Edge. Her words will encourage you in your walk (or run) with God because life is a journey. And remembering along the way gives us hope and connection to what God is doing around us.

What You Really Need to Mark Down: Remembering for the Journey reminds us to remember God's faithfulness. Welcome Becky with me and be sure to join the conversation!

Image courtesy of Morguefile.com

I’ve taken up running again on a trail just a few miles from home.

I’m a short drive away from slapping my feet against the pavement with my favorite music blasting in my ears.

After tucking my key and cell phone safely away, it’s a short stretch and quick walk to begin. Nothing feels quite like eating distance and space up with your sneakers.

Click for more of this post

Let God Fight Your Battles: Review Joyce Meyer's Book

2015-06-06T17:19:00.000-04:00

What battles are you facing today? Click to Tweet

You must know by now that I can get jazzed about:

God’s ability to do ANYTHING

God is able!

God is willing.

God wants us to believe He can. Click to Tweet

One of my favorite scriptures when I teach on this is found in 2 Chronicles 20 and includes Jehoshaphat’s prayer. We face enemies every day and his example is perfect for how to handle them. We usually feel we need to figure out a plan and DO something. But, time and time again, the message of scripture is:

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Gleaning by the Ocean

2015-06-03T19:44:00.000-04:00

I love to walk along the seashore, hunting for shells, smooth stones and discovering the treasure of sea glass. Gleaning by the ocean is soothing.

Photo by Jeanne Doyon

There is something about the ocean that draws me. Peace and power in the same place. Click to Tweet

Kind of like Jesus

During this season of REST, I spent a couple of days by the shore. It was chilly—not really beach weather but the time away refreshed me.

The book of Ruth held treasure for me as I sat by the water's edge. No matter how many times I read her story, I glean something new. Her story draws me too, because it is filled with precious truths.

I read:

“May the Lord reward your work and your wages be full from the Lord…under whose wings you have come to seek refuge.” Ruth 2:12

My reward and wages may not look like the world’s because God’s definition of success come from the Kingdom dictionary.

It is HE that rewards my work.

My wages are full from HIM.

How well, He knows me. I am trying to prove myself again – to others – to myself – and maybe even to God.

Forgive me, LORD.

My calendar doesn’t prove my success, nor does my income.

It’s my obedience, reliance and trust in my God who provides. Jehovah-Jireh. And, it is the fruit that remains.

Photo by Jeanne Doyon

I feel like Ruth gleaning in the field. Trying to provide. Trying to survive. Then You LORD, like Boaz, say,

“Come here [Draw near], that you may eat of the bread and dip your piece of bread in the vinegar. So [Ruth] sat beside the reapers; and he served her roasted grain, and she ate and was satisfied and had some left.” Ruth 2:14

Then Ruth shared with Naomi [verse 18].

I’m always amazed at how God speaks to me through His word. Click to tweet

Wherever I am; whatever I am going through, His word is for right then.

I Heard God say:

Draw near to Me.
I AM your source.
Blessings come from MY hand.
I provide plenty so you can eat and be satisfied.
I provide plenty so you can share the abundance with others.

Photo by Jeanne Doyon

Like Ruth, I glean despite the famine in my soul. Spiritual hunger spurs me to find something to satisfy the empty places.

“Boaz said to Ruth, ‘Listen carefully, my daughter. Do not go to glean in another field…” Ruth 2:8

How often do I try to gather scraps from different fields hoping to be satisfied? Click to Tweet

Lord, show me where to gather…under your protection…under the shadow of your wings. Help me to draw near and receive from your hand.

His word is powerful and it brings peace. Like the ocean, it is peace and power in one place. It speaks to my situation today. And will speak again tomorrow. The Living Word is like that.

Here is a free image to share:

Gleaning by the ocean produced fruit and treasure for my weary soul. He fed me from His hand and I am satisfied. I have plenty to share.

Where are you gleaning today? Does it satisfy?

Jeanne

The book of Ruth is just four chapters long but is called one of the great love stories of the Bible. Though she was a foreigner, her lineage goes straight to Jesus. Further proof of God's love for every person, no matter their background or nationality.

For more insight on rest from Holley Gerth, check out her recent post on (in)courage called, A Better Kind of Ambition

All photos by Jeanne Doyon

Pre-order your Keyword study of the book of Ruth:

Read fiction stories about Ruth:

It Isn't Easy To Rest

2015-06-02T20:59:00.001-04:00

Does Rest Come Easy For You?

I thought it did...but I have a lot to learn about the subject. And, the lesson isn't coming easy to me. It is so difficult to turn my brain off. Click to Tweet This

I feel I need to hear from God. And, I am sure all my rushing is getting in the way. Trying to figure it out. Do my part.

Can you relate?

Thanks for growing with me in this area. I would love to hear your thoughts about how easy or difficult it is for you to rest Click to Tweet This

Feel free to copy and share this image

I am "trying" to take some time away from the internet, other than working on my new website launch...which I hope will happen by the end of June.

This is a brief update:

My new website is built. I just need to get my web copy written.

I have recuperated from a bout of shingles and I am taking some supplements to boost my immune system.

June is my birthday month so in honor of my need to REST, I am taking it slow.

Thanks so much for understanding. I will let you know when my new site is up and ready to be bookmarked.

How about you? Does rest come easy for you?

Jeanne

Watch for my post tomorrow called, Gleaning by the Ocean. Rest gives our heart room to hear.

I'm taking next week off so see you on Wednesday, June 17th. My guest, Dr. Michelle Bengtson will be here again with a timely word.

Growing Pains and Leaps of Faith

2015-05-27T06:00:00.000-04:00

Photo by Jeanne Doyon

I have been blogging here at The Stream's Edge since August of 2010.

Hard to believe it's been just about five years.

My writing and speaking ministry is growing and I am preparing for a huge leap.

I'm creating a new website that will have my ministry and my blog under one roof...and my own domain.

This may mean a few less posts over the next month or so as I get ready to launch.

In the meantime I would love to hear what The Stream's Edge has meant to you. Click to Tweet This

Did you have a favorite post?

Have you shared posts with others?

What features have you enjoyed (guest posts, movie and book reviews, suggested resources, etc)?

Will You Pray?

The other thing I ask is for your prayer during this transition. I have often told people that the hardest thing to write is your own BIO....and a website is like a bio on steroids. I am finding it a challenge to say the least!

I am really praying for the Lord's words as I try to portray what the heart of my ministry is all about.

Here is a sneak peak of what I have been working on: Click to Tweet This

Thanks for bearing with me during my growing and leaping....

I'm excited to see what unfolds. Will you pass the word? Once I get close to launching the new website, I will let you know. My new domain is JeanneDoyon.com.

2015 has definitely been a year of growth for me. How about you?

I appreciate that you join me by the stream,

Jeanne

In case you're wondering, here are the top three posts here at The Stream's Edge:

Review: Jesus Daily Devotional

Do Not Be Afraid-Only Believe

Son Of God - Movie Review

It's An Investment

2015-05-20T06:00:00.000-04:00

My guest this week is Melissa Longval. She writes transparently on her blog called, Taste and See That the Lord is Good.

Her words to us are both encouraging and a challenge. Because investing in lives is what Jesus did...what He calls us to do. Click to Tweet

Welcome, Melissa!!

As I am now in my forties, hindsight is long and indeed useful for showing me how the Lord has been with me all my life. Circumstances, choices, and “coincidences” reveal His love, care, and provision over and over again. But none more than the godly people He has placed in my life to mentor, invest, and guide me in His ways.

These people loved the Lord and saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself. They saw value where I saw deficiency. They saw potential, gifting, and talent where I saw average, plain, and ordinary. These people didn’t view me higher than anyone else, but because of their love for the Lord, they valued me. Because of the wisdom of the Lord, they were willing to foster the potential they saw to help bolster my faith.

With encouraging words, quality time, and listening ears, these people…these precious gifts instilled in me a desire to know their God…this Jesus that they loved so much. Why would they care for me? What made them invest in me?

Feel free to share this image by Melissa Longval

Friends, never underestimate the power of a kind word or gesture! Click to Tweet

Something small and maybe insignificant to you, can literally change the course of someone’s life. A small, “how’ve ya been?” and then really listening. Truly wanting to spend time with another person can be such a gift.

We see this with Paul and Timothy. As Paul writes his second letter to Timothy from prison (some experts say this was his last letter), we catch an intimate glimpse into how much time Paul has invested in Timothy.

"You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings…" 2 Timothy 3:10-11

We are all busy. I get it…truly. But busyness in NOT godliness. I feel so strongly about being intentional with investing in others. God brings people into our lives every day. Now, with internet, we have more exposure to people than ever before. How are we loving other people? Are we investing? Are we willing to spend time with people? Can we teach and encourage?

The people the Lord used to mentor me were not scholars, counselors, or professionals, but ordinary individuals willing to let Jesus love me through them.

Are you willing?

Melissa

Hello! My name is Melissa Longval from New Hampshire. I am married to my childhood sweetheart. We have a two children, a daughter and son, who make us laugh and help us grow in the Lord every day. Keith and I are blessed to do ministry together.

The Lord had impressed upon my heart a desire to share my life with others. So I have very recently started my blog. “Taste and See that the Lord is Good” at www.melissalongval.wordpress.com . We all have hardship, but our Lord and Savior is good and kind through all of life’s messes. My heart’s desire and prayer is that through the stories of my life, you would see the goodness and kindness of Jesus in your own.

Check out this mentoring resource just published in April:

Images courtesy of Morguefile.com unless otherwise noted.

When We Don't Understand Why

2015-05-15T13:13:00.000-04:00

Have you ever questioned why?

I have, plenty of times. Like years ago when I found I was pregnant and then developed a pinched nerve. I could sit. I couldn't stand. I couldn't have X-rays. I couldn't take medications.

I asked why then.

And recently I was diagnosed with shingles. I had a busy spring with lots of deadlines and speaking engagements. I knew I needed to rest and planned to do so.

My calendar was thinning out and I was ready to step back.

Then this strange rash started.

Why?

A friend shared this link to Dr. Charles Stanley's message on the subject. And, I am sharing it with you. There is plenty we don't understand. But in the middle of it, I think it's important to ask God, "What are you up to?"

Listen to Dr. Stanley's message, When We Don't Understand Why

I've learned a few things in hindsight to those times when I wondered why. Have you?

I'd love to hear your story.

Jeanne

Resources for when we wonder why:

The Stream's Edge

Jeanne Doyon - If you haven't joined us yet...

Subscription Information: Important Message About The Stream's Edge

Long story...two different subscriber platforms...and I had no idea.

The Stream's Edge has a New Address - Will You Come Visit?

Happy Fall everyone! I'm Saying Goodbye to Blogger...

Subscribe to The Stream's Edge

Time to Move into My New Home

The Mind Connection - By Joyce Meyer: A Book Review

Let me share a little of The Mind Connection with you.

Chapter 18 has some good content:

My Thoughts about The Mind Connection by Joyce Meyer: [Click to Tweet]

A New Season - Change is Exciting

It's a New Season...and Change is Exciting

New can be scary but also exciting.

So, I am introducing you to my new website [Click to Tweet]

JeanneDoyon.com

Summer Moments - Photo Gallery

What Do You Like To Do For Fun?

Our assignment: Find a car from our birth year...

Sharing Opinions – Yours Matters

My theory is that all of this is rooted in fear.

Does this ring true with anyone else?

Is Your Door Open or Closed? I'm Loving the Living Word

My closed doors were pretty clear.

Fasting Discoveries—While AWOL from Facebook

I learned that:

For those of you who write or speak, you constantly hear you need to:

But, how many hoops do we need to jump?

Facebook is a frail, human institution that is not all-powerful.

And, He will establish my ministry in His way and His time.

God works the most miraculous things when we refuse to keep Him in a box.

My Hopes for My Facebook Fast

Fasting isn't for sissies. And fasting isn't ALL about food.

I guess I finally decided that something had to give.

I have way too many things to be attending to and taking a break from Facebook is a good idea.

In the meantime, the Lord has whispered a word during my quiet time I would like to share with you.

When Clouds Roll in and You're Not Sure What to Do Next

Join me today at the Christian Communicator's Blog where I share a time the clouds had rolled in...

Someday Home by Lauraine Snelling - A Book review

Reading is one of life’s pleasures.

I identified with each of them in a different way.

A Whirlwind Month - Catching Up

Where the Healing Begins

Letters from My Father's Murderer

By Laurie Coombs

Soon, I heard God’s gentle whisper––“It’s time to forgive.”

For this is where our healing begins.

You can order a copy of Letters from My Father's Murderer: A Journey of Forgiveness

You Can Begin Again: Book by Joyce Meyer

An Unexpected Lesson About Rest

What You Really Need to Mark Down: Remembering for the Journey

Let God Fight Your Battles: Review Joyce Meyer's Book

Gleaning by the Ocean

There is something about the ocean that draws me. Peace and power in the same place. Click to Tweet

I read:

I Heard God say:

Here is a free image to share:

Pre-order your Keyword study of the book of Ruth:

Read fiction stories about Ruth:

It Isn't Easy To Rest

This is a brief update:

Growing Pains and Leaps of Faith

In the meantime I would love to hear what The Stream's Edge has meant to you. Click to Tweet This

Will You Pray?

It's An Investment

My guest this week is Melissa Longval. She writes transparently on her blog called, Taste and See That the Lord is Good.

Her words to us are both encouraging and a challenge. Because investing in lives is what Jesus did...what He calls us to do. Click to Tweet

Welcome, Melissa!!

When We Don't Understand Why