Simply 4 God

Fearless Friday

2009-11-13T13:19:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Fearless Friday. Fearless Friday is a meme created by Angela who writes a blog entitle Free Spirit Haven. She started Fearless Friday so that at least one day a week all Christian bloggers would come together as one in stand in the gap for people in need of prayer. If you would love to take part in Fearless Friday please scroll down on the right side of my blog to the picture like the one above and it will take you to her blog where you can get the graphic and get directions on how to participate.

This post is one which is very special and dear to me. I would ask for all of my prayer warriors that have ever gotten a prayer through to please lift up a very special and dear friend of mine, Sarah. I met Sarah through the blogosphere. She writes three blogs: Gentle Recovery, In the Eye of Decetpion and Writing.

Sarah has written her first book called, "In the Eye of Deception." Her book will be published within the next week. This book was not easy for her to write. Anyone who has visited her blogs knows that she has gone through many pains, struggles and ordeals. She pours out her heart wrenching story in the pages of her book in hopes that she will help others who have been abused realize there is hope. Sarah is a survivor. She tells everyone that without the love, grace, strength and mercy of God, she would not be here today.

She has a quote by Maya Angelou on her website which gives details about her book: "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." (You can visit her website by clicking on the picture of her book on the top left of my blog). Sarah is truly letting her story be told. A story I am sure has been hidden deep inside of her for many, many years. A story which is now coming to light. A story which I pray will set other abused victims free.

Sarah is a woman who overcame many obstacles and drawbacks. Sarah is victorious in my eyes. I have felt her pain through her words on her blog. She is truly amazing and I for one am so very proud of her. She like the rest of us has her ups and downs. She has days when she questions her faith. Yet, she still remains faithful to the One who saw her through. Let encourage Sarah. Let us all stand behind her as she ventures through this unknown door she is about to open. A door in which God has opened for her and nothing and no one will close.

So, as her book goes to the publisher and then is released, I ask for you to pray for not only the success of her book, but that someone who has suffered a life of shame, misery, self-doubt and depression from the hands of any form of abuse will read Sarah's story and know that there is life and hope in the living God. They can be set free from the heartaches, pains and misery they have suffered alone. Pray for Sarah that she will remain strong in her faith and to continue to lean on God for support and strength. Sarah has come a mighty long way. I pray she continues to stay connected and holds on tightly to the righteous right hand of God.

I love you Sarah. I am so very proud of you.

BTW, I have asked her if I may receive a copy of her book and post a review for her on my blog. She has graciously said "yes." So, once I receive my copy and have read it, I will post a blog about it. So, look forward to a blog that I am honored to write. I am so excited! Praise the Lord!

Let us all stand in the gap for someone, anyone today and everyday. God bless you all.

Dred Scott's Revenge by Judge Andrew P. Napolitano

2009-11-12T11:56:00.001-05:00

Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. (Genesis 1:26-27)

For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe. (Deuteronomy 10:17)

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. (The Declaration of Independence).

I love reviewing books for Thomas Nelson Publishing. I look forward to writing review for their books. I normally do not have problems stating my opinion on a book, yet, Dred Scott's Revenge has been by far the most challenging review for me to write thus far.

Dred Scott was born a slave in Virginia. He sued for his freedom because he had lived in territories and states in which slavery was not against the law. Yet, the U.S. Supreme court ruled against him. Judge Napolitano says this, decision, "denied citizenship to blacks, and spawned more than a century of government-sponsored maltreatment that destroyed lives, suppressed freedom, and scarred our culture."

I have to say, the pages contained in this book was not what I expected to read. I expected to read the usual history on slavery and racism which you find in most history books. Dred Scott's Revenge is not the "usual" history book. It in fact goes well beyond the history of slavery and racism. This book cuts to the very core of why racism runs so rampant in this country then and now.

The above scriptures tell us that God created all humanity in His likeness. He does not discriminate between people. God created all humanity and loves each and every one of us. We are all the same in His eyes. The writers of the Declaration of Independence states "all men are created equal, yet in truth "certain human beings were not created equal, namely the black race" The black race was not entitled to their God given rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Blacks were indeed an inferior race, not considered human beings at all. Yet, did not the same God create us all? Many of the authors indeed were slave owners themselves. So how could they stand by and say that "all men are created equal" with a clear conscience?

This is exactly what Judge Napolitano writes about in Dred Scotts Revenge. He exposes our founding fathers, presidents from Lincoln to JFK as well as judges, senators, congressman, etc. for instilling and keeping racism alive and thriving in America which scars our country to this day.

I have to admit the most shocking part of the book for me is the part on Abraham Lincoln, aka "The Great Emancipator." Lincoln in fact supported slavery and being called, "The Great Emancipator" is simply putting a beautiful title over an ugly truth. Setting the slaves free was not on his top list of priorities. In fact, freeing the slaves was not on his list at all (read the book to find out more).

This book contains so much, it is impossible for me to write all about it on one blog. One thing I am certain of, the history we were taught in school is the "pretty" version of an ugly reality.

I am glad I read this book and if any of you want to be set free and learn the truth behind racism in our country, you must read this book. I applaud Judge Napolitano in writing the truth for everyone to read.

This is by far a 5 star book. It is a must read for anyone who desires learning the truth. The Bible of course is #1 in truth. John 8:32 says, "Then you shall know the truth and the truth will set you free." In reading Judge Napolitano's book, you will know the truth about racism in America and it will set you free from the "sugar coated" history lessons taught in schools today. Be set free, read this book.

Be Blessed in Reading!

Nowhere 2 Run, Nowhere 2 Hide

2009-11-09T13:26:00.000-05:00

Well, it has been quite sometime since I have written on my blog. I have missed every one of my friends here! Thank you so much for all your concern, emails and prayers. Wow, you have truly lifted my spirits. Let me tell you, my spirits have really needed a lift!

The past two weeks have been crazy. I felt like the title of my blog, Nowhere 2 Run and Nowhere 2 hide! It felt like everything was coming down upon me at once! In truth it was, but God saw me through.

My two youngest boys got the flu at the same time. Then about two days later my daughter got it and then my husband. So, here I am taking care of four sick people all at the same time. I was so exhausted! I kept praying, God, please keep me healthy so I can take care of the others. This was my prayer daily along with a quick recovery for all of them.

My girl gets better and last week she says she has a pain in her chest which really hurt. She never misses school, in fact she hates missing school and when she told me she needed to go to the doctor I knew something was wrong. The doctor said to just give her some tums and she will be okay. Well , the next day she wasn't okay and off to the emergency room we go. Oh my gosh I am starting to lose it now because my girl is in pain! I am praying and praying to the Lord and crying at the same time. Well, it turns out that she has acid reflux and as soon as they gave her a dose of mylanta, she was much better. I thanked God it was nothing serious. Thank you Lord!

Last Friday, my oldest son had to get his wisdom teeth (all four) cut out. He came through the surgery fine and was still very numb when we got home. But, boy when the numbness wore off, well I am sure you know how much pain he was in. I cried and I prayed again. Today, he is feeling much better and I thank God for his quick recovery. I thanked Him that his pain had lessened and he is even smiling now.

Oh yes, I forgot my second oldest brother had surgery last Thursday and so that was on my plate as well. Boy, now you see why I am one tired mama! But, I am grateful to God that although there were days I did not think I would make it, His grace was sufficient to see me through. When I was weak, He gave me the strength to carry on. When my soul was down, He uplifted it. God is a good God and I am so thankful that I had Him to lean on through it all.

He never gives us more than we can bear. Oh how true His word is.

Fearless Friday

2009-10-23T22:14:00.001-04:00

For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."

Matthew 18:20 (NIV)

It has been a while since I posted on Fearless Friday. Fearless Friday is a meme started by Angela who authors Free Spirited Haven. You must visit her blog as she writes for the glory of God in ways which we all can relate to. Fearless Friday is a day when all Christian bloggers unite as one and stand in the gap for those in need of prayer.

First, I would like to thank each and every one of my readers who stood in the gap for me and my husband. There is power in prayer and God is truly in the healing business. My husband is doing very well. His sugar, and blood pressure are now under control and closing in on the normal ranges. As for me, well you all know that I had a mammogram (2 of them) and a ultrasound because of 2 small spots found on my right breast. The nurse at my doctors office called me today and said the spots were not cancerous. Praise be to God! Oh how wonderful is our God. I still have to have another mammogram in 6 months, but she said this is to make certain that the spots have not gotten bigger. But, that there is no need to worry about them being cancerous! Amen! Thank you Jesus!

So, if anyone reading this does not believe that God is in fact real, that He does hear and answer prayers, let me testify that He is Real! He does Exist! He does Answer prayer!

On that note, I would like for all of us to pray for the women and men (yes, men can get breast cancer too) who have been told they have breast cancer, are being treated, have survived breast cancer or lost loved ones to breast cancer or any type of disease. Let us pray for everyone who has gotten bad news from the doctor. Let us pray simply for healing across the world!

A beautiful prayer was posted in my comments and I would like for you to say this prayer with me. Thank you KingsKid777 for this beautiful prayer:

Dear Father I pray in the name of Jesus, Thank you for today and all the blessings you have given me. Please heal _________ this day of any tumors, whether cancerous, pre-cancerous, or benign that may be in him/her anywhere in their body. I thank you that he/she is one day closer to being completely healed from the top of their head to the bottom of their feet. Lord if he/she is awaiting the results of a test please comfort and be with him/her through the waiting time also. Thank You Jesus! Your will be done. In Jesus Name, I pray, AMEN! Glory to You o' Lord!

(just fill in the blank with the name of the person you wish to pray for)

My friends, there is POWER IN PRAYER.

PRAYERS GO UP, BLESSINGS COME DOWN.

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

Thank God 4 Faithful Friends

2009-10-22T20:32:00.001-04:00

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

The above picture is of me and my best friend, Lisa. We have been friends since 2nd grade. Yes, we have been through our ups and downs, but we have always remained friends. Lisa has seen me through the roughest times of my life. She has always been there for me.

Now that I am going through this mammogram test-a-thon (which is what it feels like) she has been right by my side. When I first heard the news about the spots on my breast and I had to have more test done, Lisa was right there telling exactly what they were going to do and why they were doing it. I praise God for her and the fact that she is an RN helps too!

The latest mammogram and ultrasound results through me for a loop. The nurse called and said they could not be certain if the spots where cysts or just "fatty" tissue. She said I will have to have another mammogram in 6 months to see if the spots have grown, stayed the same or disappeared. I said, "are they cancerous or not?" She said, "we just can not tell because they are so small, but we think they are not."

My mind went into a frenzy of thoughts. I prayed to God as I have already given my problem over to Him. I told Him I was not going to be overcome with worry. I knew He had everything under control. I still needed someone to talk to. I called on my BFF since 2nd grade.

She was at work, yet she said she would call as soon as she got home. The phone rang, it was Lisa. I told her what the nurse said and she said these exact words, "oh girl, I had the same thing said to me when I had my first mammogram. I had to get another mammogram in six months and the spots turned out to be nothing. This is what they do when you have your first mammogram. You will be fine and besides I told you God was not going to let anything bad happen to my best friend." Oh, how her words comforted me!

I thank God each and every day for my best friend, Lisa. I don't know how I could make it through life without her. I am reminded of the words from Tyler Perry's movie, Madea Goes to Jail. Madea is talking to her nephew, Sonny about relationships. She compares relationships to limbs, branches and roots on a tree. Madea says, "If you find yourself two or three people in your entire lifetime that are like the roots, then you are blessed. The roots don't care nothing about being seen. All they're there to do is hold that tree up, to make sure it stays in the air. It comes from the earth to give that tree everything it needs."

Lisa, you are my root. You lift me up when I am down. You make me smile when I am sad. When I am weak, you are strong. I am truly blessed to have you in my life. I know that before we were created by our awesome God, we were destined to be best friends here on earth. I love you so much. Thank you for being my friend. Thank you for being my sister. Thank you for being you.

I love you Lisa!

If you have just one friend who sticks with you through thick and thin, consider yourself blessed my friends. Consider yourself blessed! I know I do!

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

Blog Love Graphics

2009-10-21T19:37:00.000-04:00

Book Review: Watch Over Me by Christa Parrish

2009-10-16T20:47:00.002-04:00

I am a member of the Bethany House Book Reviewers program. Watch Over Me by Christa Parrish was provided for review by Bethany House. To become a member please visit: To join go to

www.bethanyhouse.com/bookreviewers.

OMG! Watch Over Me by Christa Parrish is a page turner from the beginning. You will not want to put this book down! I am not kidding! The book is excellent and worth 10 stars! But, of course you can only give a high rating of 5 stars. My rating, 5 stars.

The book has three main characters: Ben and Abbi Patil and Matthew. Ben and Abbi are having problems in their marriage. Ben has returned home from Afghanistan and can not shake the demons which are attacking his mind about incidents he saw and lived fighting for his country. Needless to say his faith in God is gone. Abbi, his wife does, not know why Ben has become so distant towards her. She knows God is the only One who can help her, yet she does not know how to talk with God. Matthew is deaf, has a drug addicted mother and is living with the fact that he may not live much longer if he does not receive a kidney transplant. He knows that God is all He has. All three lives become intertwined by one common thread, a baby. Trust me there is a lot which happens in this book, but you will have to find out the rest on your own.

You will not be sorry.

Abby is by far my favorite character. I can relate to her in so many ways. She is strong willed. She has things in her past she is not proud of. She loves Ben, yet she does not know how to become "one" in her marriage with him. She does not know how to get Ben to open up to her. She does not know how to help him. She does not know how to talk to him. Her solution is just not to say anything at all. I know exactly how she feels and where she is coming from. As they say, "I have been there and done that" with my husband in our marriage.

Now, with that said, I highly recommend this book. It is a must read. It is worth the price.

Happy Reading my friends!

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

Book Review: Finding Your Strongest Life

2009-10-16T19:06:00.000-04:00

As you know, I am a member of Thomas Nelson’s Book Review Blogger program. If you love to read then click the above link and sign up. It's free and you receive free books to read. What more can you ask for?

Well, the latest book I selected to read was, Finding Your Strongest Life by Marcus Buckingham. Let me say this right off the bat, this was the most disappointing book I have read thus far. Marcus Buckingham is claiming to reveal, "the powerful key to bring fulfillment, peace, and control into a woman's life. In Find Your Strongest Life, Marcus Buckingham reveals the powerful key to help women draw enough strength from life to feel fulfilled, loved, successful, and in control. Even more, he helps women reconnect with their purpose and gives a starting point for change. A research-based message that applies to work and life, Find Your Strongest Life shows women a "unified theory" for how they really can have it all . . . the right kind of all. "

Uh huh, right.

I was really excited about reading this book. I thought, "wow, a book about bringing fulfillment, peace and control into my life. This should be interesting." Boy, was I wrong. If you are an entrepreneur, business executive or CEO of a company making a gazillion dollars a year, then this book is for you. If you are an ordinary 9-5er living paycheck to paycheck type of person, this book is definitely not for you.

The book begins with, "Ten Myths About The Lives of Women." That should have gave me the "warning sign" about the rest of the book. But, I still gave it a chance. Before really "diving into the book, he would like for you to go to StrongLifeTest.com and take test to "Discover the Role You Were Born to Play." Okay, let's look at the first question. It has to do with an important customer calling you stating they did not receive the presentation. What do you do?" Okay, I am a stay at home mother of four kids who plays taxi cab five days a week. How in the world am I to answer this question. I mean get real. Was there a question for ordinary taxi cab moms like me? NO!

Business professional women please take this test. Maybe you will discover you role in life.

The book in fact was another "self help" book for women written by a man, who if you ask me may have a clue about professional business women but not a clue about ordinary stay at home taxi cab moms such as myself. There is not one mention of God or Jesus or faith in the entire book! Where does our strength come from? Who do we go to in order to learn what we were created for? Who holds the key to fulfillment and peace in our lives? Where does our joy come from? There is only one answer, and that is GOD. Period. You will not find peace and fulfillment by reading a "self-help book" but by reading the best selling book of all time, THE BIBLE.

Let me ask you this question, how many business execs or CEO's do you know that are happy, content and peaceful? I doubt they will be after reading this book either.

My recommendation, take the money you were going to use to buy this worthless book and purchase a BIBLE which has every answer to all your questions. The secret to finding your role in life is within its pages. Talking about an investment which will last for the rest of your life!

Since I must give it a rating between 1 and 5 (trust me, if I could I would give it a negative 10) but my rating 1. Well, it did have a colorful jacket.

Happy Reading my friends!

It Is Well With My Soul

2009-10-13T13:19:00.000-04:00

First thanking God for answering prayers and being faithful and true! Thanking Jesus Christ for His power of healing! Thanking Jesus for suffering a horrible death on the Cross for our sins! What a mighty God we serve! Thanking all of you for your prayers, words of support and comfort. I love you all so very much.

Phil is out of the hospital. They ran so many test on him, from an MRI to an ultrasound on his heart. All test came back fine except for the ultrasound on his heart which the doctor said was nothing for us to worry about. He has a little flap which is not opening and closing properly but it is not affecting his heart in a harmful way. Phil's sugar has dropped within the normal range and we are praising God for this. He has another doctor's appointment this Friday. His spirits are up and he is back to his old self once again. Whew! What a scare we had! But, we know God is more than able to see us through these storms which pop up in our lives.

As for me, well, my doctor said that I have two pea size spots on my right breast. He said, (and I also talked to my best friend who is an RN), that I should not worry about them. The radiologist which looked at my films said they did not look malignant, but could be cyst or fatty tissue. So, this Thursday I will have a test run at 12:30 pm. The radiologists will look at the films and let me know if I will need an ultrasound. Just in case the ultrasound is scheduled for 2 pm.

The entire time Phil was in the hospital I totally forgot to pray over myself. I prayed for him every moment of the day. I wasn't sure whether I should tell him about the results of my mammogram, then I remembered the promise we made that we would not keep medical secrets or any secrets for that matter from each other. So, I told him and he got so worried. I told him I was not worried, (although I had heard every horror story which could be told in less than a day) but I was a little afraid and he should not be worried either.

God knows that we will become afraid, but we should not let that fear consume us. We must take those fears and put them under the authority of Jesus Christ. We must overcome these fears with the Word of God. This is what I did. I wrote down every fear scripture and I prayed them out loud to God until the fear left and God's peace flooded my soul.

I read them out loud daily.

I told him I have a peace about it regardless if my test come back as malignant or not. God has placed a peace within me. It is well within my soul. I kept singing the song, "It Is Well With My Soul" the whole week. If you do not know this song, just click on the title and read the words. Then, you will know why "it is well with my soul."

Those who do not know about the goodness of the Lord do not understand. I have surrendered all into His hands and know that it will all work out for the better of the good. I love the Lord and have placed my complete trust and faith in Him. He knows what is best for me and that is all that matters to me.

I urge any of my female readers who are over 40 or who have a history of breast cancer in their family to please, please get a mammogram. Schedule one today and get the process underway. Do not wait one minute longer.

I will let you know how my test turn out. Just know this: I have a peace which surpasses all understanding. I have a faith in God which runs deeper than the ocean. My soul is firmly anchored in Christ. 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? I know within my heart that, "this too shall pass."

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Sorry I Haven't Written In A While

2009-10-06T19:45:00.001-04:00

Hi Friends,

Just a quick post to let everyone know my husband Phil is in the hospital and we do not know when he will get out. He has some type of infection (do not know what type) which is really concerning me, but as a result of this infection his blood sugar went up to over 500 and doctor immediately put him in the hospital.

As for me, I had a mammogram yesterday and have been told I have two abnormal spots. My best friend, who is an RN, says this is normal and for me not to worry until I have an ultrasound done. I am trying not to, but I am human and I am trying to stay strong in my faith. I am trying to stay positive, but with Phil and what is going on with him and then my news I got today, I am pretty drained physically and spiritually.

I will keep you up to date on his condition and mine. Please add our family in your prayers.

I love you all and will talk with you soon.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Heart = Thoughts, Actions and Emotions

2009-09-30T12:06:00.001-04:00

Proverbs 23:7
For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he (KJV)
For as he thinks within himself, so he is. (NASB)
For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. (AMP)

Above are three different translations which have the same underlying meaning. What we think in our minds is a direct result of what we feel within our hearts. What we think in our minds affects our actions, our emotions and our words. Yet, it all begins in my central location.

THE HEART.

My questions to you: Are you a thinker?Are your thoughts positive or negative? Do you speak out of anger? Do you react out of anger? Are the wheels of your mind constantly turning? Does your mind get tired from all your thinking? Are you ready to be set free?

These are questions I have asked myself this past week. My answer to every single one of them is:

YES! YES! YES!

I have been studying the power of thoughts and words all week. I have Joyce Meyer's book, "Battlefield of the Mind" and I am reading it ever so slowly. I highly recommend anyone who is troubled with wrong or negative thoughts to get this book and study it diligently. It is truly a powerful book.

The first lesson I learned is that all my thoughts begin in my heart. This was an ouch to me because if I am thinking negative and bad thoughts, how can I say I truly love Jesus? Jesus is love. He is not negative nor is He bad. So how can my mouth utter the words, I love Jesus, when my heart is filled with negative and bad thoughts?

HMMM, I have to change the condition of my heart and my thoughts. But, can I change the condition of my heart and mind? NO, only God can. This is why David said in Psalm 51:10, "Create in me a clean heart, O God." David also says in Psalm 139:23,24, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.."

Notice in both verses David is asking God to do something with his heart: "create, clean, search and see". In reading these two verses it is obvious that the heart is the central control tower which directs our thoughts, our actions and our emotions. Also, notice that David is asking the one who created his heart to create, clean, search and see the things that are not right within his heart: GOD. We can not do this on our own.

Only God can change your heart condition.

So, I have began my journey on changing my heart. Each day in my prayers I speak the words in Psalm 51:10 and 139:23,24 to God. (God so loves it when we pray His words back to Him). I know that God changing my heart will take time, and I know that it will not happen overnight, yet I am certain that little by little God will indeed change my heart. He will remove all that is not right within my heart. In God changing my heart, my thoughts, my actions, my emotions and my life will indeed change for the better.

AND GOD WILL ONCE AGAIN BE GLORIFIED!!!!!!!!

Will you travel along with me on this journey? Will you watch the transformation take place as God changes my heart? Better yet, will you join me in this life changing journey by asking God to change your heart?

I hope and pray that you will.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

My Walk Monday: The Love Walk

2009-09-28T19:56:00.002-04:00

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:34-35)

Jesus said in the Gospel of John, that we are to love one another as He loves us. God showed how much He loved us by sending His One and only Son as a sacrifice for all of our sins. What great love God has for us, yet, we in fact can not love one another.

To have God and Jesus Christ living inside of you, we are indeed direct reflections of them. As direct reflections we are to walk in love as God and Jesus walks in love. When we walk in love, we are in fact showing the world that we are indeed God's children. God is truly love.

I have learned that walking in love does not take that much. A simple smile can make another feel so much better. A "have a blessed day" could mean the difference of someone having a good or bad day. A "I love you" truly makes the world of difference, especially when someone is not expecting those words to come out of your mouth. Carrying someone's groceries for them or sending a "I was thinking about you" card, can turn a dark day into one that is bright.

You know they say it takes a lot more muscles to frown than it does to smile. Why don't you try smiling. When I smile I can feel my spirit lift up. I can feel joy and love in my soul. So, try it, go ahead and

I promise you will feel so much better.

I received a book of poems by Helen Steiner Rice entitled, "A Collection of Love Gifts." I pray you will read the words and allow them to sink deeply within your heart.

There's Sunshine in a Smile

by Helen Steiner Rice

Life is a mixture of sunshine and rain,

Laughter and pleasure, teardrops and pain,

All days can't be bright, but it's certainly true,

There was never a cloud the sun didn't shine through-

So just keep on smiling whatever betide you,

Secure in the knowledge God is always beside you,

And you'll find when you smile your day will be brighter

And all of your burdens will seem so much lighter-

For each time you smile you will find it is true

Somebody, somewhere will smile back at you,

And nothing on earth can make life more worthwhile

Than the sunshine and warmth of a beautiful smile.

Smile, Jesus loves you and guess what? I DO TOO.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

STOP! SLOW DOWN!

2009-09-25T10:01:00.001-04:00

Stop! Slow down! Yes, I heard God telling me to stop and slow down, yet I kept on pushing myself to the limit. God gave me all the warning signs that I was about to physically and spiritually crash and burn, yet I did not heed His warnings.

Is He giving you WARNING SIGNS?

Ultimately, I crashed and I burned in such a way that I could not lift my head up nor raise myself out of the bed. I was mentally, physically and spiritually exhausted. My mind was tired. My soul was tired. My body was tired.

I was simply TIRED.

Why did this happen? How did I allow this to happen? Why didn't I listen to God? What made this happen?

This happened because I have been trying so hard to spiritually feed people the nourishment that God wants them to have. I have been helping people so much whether it was encouraging them with God's Word and His love, listening to them, praying with them or simply holding their hand as they cried and cried, I was bound and determined to help them no matter what.

Yes, I was the model Super Christian.

Is helping others and encouraging others bad? No.

Is this not what God wants us to do? YES.

So, what was the problem?

The problem was I was spiritually feeding others but I was neglecting myself. I was not getting the spiritual food I needed to make it through each day. I was not spending time with the ONE who is "the source of my strength." I was not refueling myself with Him and His Word. I believed by doing what He called me to do was enough.

I WAS WRONG!

I began to get tired. I began to feel depressed. I began to not care if I did the will of God in my life anymore. I was EXHAUSTED. I needed to STOP! I needed to SLOW DOWN!

God put the brakes on me and boy did I feel the impact!

He let me know that although I was doing His will, I was doing what He created me to do, I was forgetting one thing: HIM. I was neglecting HIM. I was not giving HIM first priority in my life. I was not refueling my mind, soul and spirit through prayer, meditation and just plain talking with Him. I was trying to do HIS job instead of being a vessel for HIM to use.

Boy, was this a hard slap upside my head!

But, being the loving and caring Father that He is, He showed me the error of my ways. He showed me that doing His will does not mean I have to suffer spiritually and mentally. I have to renew my mind. I have to refuel myself daily by spending time with our Father.Not just some time, A LOT of TIME where it is just ME and HIM. ONE ON ONE.

So, if you are feeling burned out. If you are feeling spiritually, mentally and physically exhausted, take a lesson from me. STOP! SLOW DOWN! Take time and spend with your Father. Go to your "secret place" where only you and HIM are there. No interruptions. No internet. No telephone. NOTHING but you and HIM. Pray. Meditate. Talk. Read your Bible. Let God know that He is first in your life. Let Him know that without HIM you can do NOTHING.

Get refueled by the power and strength of our Heavenly Father. Let HIM rejuvenate your mind, soul and spirit. Do not leave your "secret place" until you know without a doubt that you are refueled in your spirit, mind, body and soul.

Don't get caught up in being a "SUPER CHRISTIAN." You have spiritual needs that need to be met as well.

Don't get so busy that you neglect God and Yourself.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Learn to Study the Bible: A Book Review

2009-09-24T12:32:00.002-04:00

Let me ask you these simple questions:

Has studying the Bible become somewhat of a bore for you?
Are you finding yourself simply "going through the motions" when it comes to studying God's Word?
Have you tried several methods of studying the Bible, yet they leave you feeling overwhelmed? Confused?

If you have answered "yes" to any of the above questions, have I got a wonderful treat for you!

Learn to Study the Bible is a beautiful, exciting, original and enjoyable Bible study book written by Pastor Andy Deane. This 248 page book contains 40 step by step methods (yes 40) to help you discover, apply and enjoy God's Word in a whole new way. Some of the methods are "Daily Bread, SPECS ON, Alphabet Method, Verse-by-Verse Charting, Twenty Jesus Questions, Royal Wisdom, and Meeting Jesus (got your curiosity peaked?).

You will no longer study the Bible using the "same old routine" again.

The author, Pastor Andy Deane, is the associate pastor at Calvary Chapel Old Bridge in central New Jersey. He wrote the book after a failed attempt in teaching a group of junior high students a "few basic study principles that would help them dig into the Word on a daily basis"which he perceived as a "fairly simply task". To his horror, instead of the kids being "excited" about studying God's Word, they were confused and uninterested. He says, "this was the scariest moment I've ever experienced as a youth pastor." (By the way, there are study methods for teenagers in this book as well. Some methods are, "Heart Monitor, Weather Report and Climb the Ladder" (Cool titles huh?).

FYI, my teens love studying the Bible more than ever now! Thank you Pastor Deane)!

Thus, Learn to Study the Bible was conceived.

I am so glad he wrote this book! I have purchased many, "How to Study the Bible, How to Study God's Word" books and the majority of them are collecting dust on my bookshelf. AWWWW! but then I received Learn to Study the Bible and I HAVE NOT PUT IT DOWN! I am using the "Daily Bread Method" and I absolutely love it! It makes me see God, His Word and His promises in a whole new light!

So, you say that you have been reading the Bible for many years. Well, there is a method in the book for you. There are methods for beginners, intermediate and advanced Bible readers. I promise you will not be disappointed when you get this book!

What I love most about Pastor Deane's book is his extensive explanation of the study and then following his explanation there are HAND WRITTEN EXAMPLES of the method! How cool is that!

Oh I tell you, this book is AWESOME!!!!!!!!

Learn to Study the Bible sells for $13.99. It is worth paying a lot more in my opinion. You can find out more about the book by clicking on the link below. The website is packed with useful information. You can even read a sample chapter before you purchase Learn to Study the Bible.

The website is: Learn To Study the Bible.

So, go ahead click the link above, research the site, read about the author and the book and then purchase the book. You will fall in love with God and His Word all over again! You will want to go deeper into His Word like never before!

Oh yes, I am excited about this book, can you tell!

You will be as well!

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with you in truth and love.

THANK-YOU ALL!!!!!

2009-09-22T19:50:00.001-04:00

I wish to thank everyone for your prayer, love and support while I was away. I am feeling much better, praise the Lord! I will be back sometime this week blogging once again for our Lord and Savior and for you.

I love you all and have missed you dearly.

I have learned so much in my precious time with God. It has truly been a rejuvenating experience which I will share with you all. God is so awesome! I hope you will find comfort, encouragement, joy, laughter, peace and most of all how truly LOVING and CARING our God truly, truly is in my testimony over the next few days.

Until then may:

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with you in truth and love.

Taking Some Time Off

2009-09-14T19:05:00.000-04:00

Hello friends,

I am taking a few days, maybe even a week off. I have a sinus infection and I feel pretty bad. Yet, I wanted to let everyone know why I will be MIA for awhile. I will use this time getting closer with God in meditation and prayer. Lots of things going on in my families life. Please keep us in your prayers.

I love you all and will miss you dearly. I will be thinking of you.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Christian Comics

2009-09-14T18:45:00.001-04:00

I posted these yesterday, yet I guess for some reason the pictures did not show up. I hope this works as these are really worth seeing. Let me know if the pictures come through this time.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Fearless Friday: Remembering 911

2009-09-11T11:11:00.006-04:00

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. (1 Timothy 2:1,2 NIV)

Welcome to Fearless Friday. A day when we unite as one and stand in the gap for those who are in need of prayer.

Today I would like for us to stand together as a united front of prayer warriors and pray for those who lost loved one on this day in 2001. September 11, 2001 was a day in which not one person in the United States will ever forget.

The pictures being displayed on television and the internet put everyone in disbelief that something this disastrous could happen in our country. Yet, the fact remains that it most certainly did happen. Yes, it can happen again.

This is why we need to pray for our leaders daily.

Many lost loved ones in this vicious attack. Many lost their lives sifting through carnage and rubble in an heroic measure to rescue the many who were trapped.

Let us join together today and pray for the families that lost loved ones in this devastating tragedy. Pray for the many fireman, policeman and all who gave their lives to save someone else.

Let us pray for world peace.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. (Matt 5:9)

Let us pray that our leaders:

Receive wisdom: Proverbs 4:5-8
Show Courage and Integrity: Proverbs 11:3
Be Sharp In Insight and Quick in Discernment: 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22
Surrounded with Godly Staff and Advisors" Psalm 1:1; Proverbs 24:6; Proverbs 29:12;

Let us pray that the United States turn back and remain in God, the very foundation this country was built upon. As Patrick Henry, known as the “orator of the Revolution”, stated in his May,1765 Speech to the House of Burgesses,

“It cannot be emphasized too clearly and too often that this nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religion, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason, peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity, and freedom of worship here.”

Let us pray that these words never be forgotten.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Honesty Week

2009-09-09T15:08:00.003-04:00

Visit Women Living 4 Jesus

I am a member, and have been for a long time of an awesome Christian Women group called Women Living 4 Jesus. Here is what WL4J is about:

Women Living 4 Jesus is an association whose primary ministry is ministering to all women of all walks of life. We exist solely to support those in need. As we have Jesus Christ in our hearts; we are here to uplift the name of Jesus and support our fellow women and their families. Jesus came to help those in need of hearing His word and His love. We, as Christians, are here to give those in need of hearing His word by spreading His love in the office of help and giving.

It truly is a powerful group. It does not matter if you are new in your Christian walk or if you are seasoned, WL4J is about love, friendship, spiritual support, encouragement and most of all keeping God first and foremost in our lives. This group has truly and I mean truly been a blessing to me.

This week we are having Honesty Week. Each day Sis Alissa posts a scripture and then asks us to answer questions on how the scripture deals with certain areas in our lives. Of course the main thing is being HONEST. Then we are to blog about what the scripture means to us on our personal blog. We are to post a scripture and how this scripture is helping us daily. Honesty Week brings out things you have been hiding deep within your soul. I know it has for me and I believe it has for others as well.

I will be posting some of my post this week, just to let you know what I am talking about. If you want to be a part of a group of Christian Women who can relate to you on every aspect of live whether it be family, love, trust, husbands, marriage, abuse, children, you have got to join Women Living 4 Jesus.

Why don't you click the graphic above and see for yourself. I know you will be blessed.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

FearLess: Imagine Your Life Without Fear by Max Lucado

2009-09-08T11:19:00.002-04:00

"Why are you fearful? O you of little faith"
Matthew 8:26

Each sunrise seems to bring fresh reasons for fear. We fear finishing last, going broke, the mole on our back, and the sound of the clock as it ticks us closer to the grave.

Fear is dreadful. Fear sucks the life out of the soul.

"Fear herds us into a prison and shuts the door".

If you could hover a fear magnet over your heart and extract every last shaving of dread, insecurity, or doubt, what would remain? Envision a day, just one day, where you could trust more and fear less.

(Want to trust more and FEAR LESS? READ THIS BOOK!)

Can you imagine your life without fear?

(If you can not answer "yes" to this question, I suggest you get this book! It will truly get you on your path to freedom from the bondage of fear.)

The quotes above (the writing in parenthesis are mine) are taken from the latest and (in my opinion) one of the best books Max Lucado has written to date: FearLess: Imagine Your Life Without Fear. His book brings to life an emotion that not one person is exempt from: FEAR. Max Lucado teaches us how to conquer fear through scriptures and faith in God and Jesus Christ in typical Max Lucado style. Those who have read his books know what I am talking about. Those who haven't you will understand when you begin to read.

This 221 page book is filled with the fears we all face. The first chapter asked this question: "Why Are We Afraid"? The rest of the chapters are entitled:

Fear of Not Mattering
Fear of Disappointing God
Fear of Running Out
Fear of Not Protecting My Kids
Fear of Overwhelming Challenges
Fears of Worst-Case Scenarios
Fear of Violence
Fear of the Coming Winter
Fear of Life's Final Moments
Fear of What's Next
Fear that God is Not Real
Fear of Global Calamity
Fear of God Getting out of My Box

Fearless can be used as a group study. It can be used by ministers to use in their sermons. This book has numerous ways it can be used. I pray you will buy or get it from your library. However you obtain this book, just GET IT and start living your life without fear. You will read and read this book again. I have already started reading it a second time. Make sure you tell everyone you know and love about FEARLESS!

I give Fearless 1 million thumbs up!

Get it! Read it! Study it! Apply it! Live it! I gave it a reviewers rating of 5 out of 5 stars.I would have given it 100 stars! It is that awesome!

I leave you with this final quote from the book, "Courage is fear that has said its prayers." Become courageous today. Become FEARLESS today!

GOD IS BIGGER THAN YOUR FEARS!

Blessings in Reading!

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Jesus Fed the Hungry, So Must We

2009-09-05T19:47:00.001-04:00

Did you know that if you gave up your daily coffee for one week, you could use that money to help provide 63 meals to Americans struggling with hunger? Wow, can you imagine if we all gave up our daily cup of joe for one week how many hungry people we could feed?

Did that get your attention?

September is Hunger Action Month. Feeding America is calling all people to support Hunger Action Month. Poverty does not discriminate against race, gender or age. Poverty is not only confined within the United States. Poverty is world wide. Hunger is world wide. Homelessness is world wide.

Jesus tells us to "Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed." (Psa. 82:3) This is what we as believers in Christ are suppose to do. He does not ask us to do this, He tells us to do this. If we don't He tells us this will happen to us, "if a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered." (Prov. 21:13). Yes, there are consequences we will face if we do not help the poor. I personally do not want to face such consequences and I know you do not either.

This is why I am begging, (yes I said begging), all of you to help feed our hungry families by visiting Feeding America. Find out how you can donate and help feed our hungry.

I am not asking you to give a million dollars. I am not asking you to give $20.00. I am asking you to simply do your best. Give what God lays upon your heart to give.

$1 donated to Feed American equals 7 meals.

7 meals for only a dollar!

Won't you help Feed American raise money to feed the poor and hungry? After all, Jesus fed 5,000 people with five loaves of bread and two fish.

Imagine how many people you could feed for $5.00.

Take 31 seconds of your time and watch the video below. I pray as you watch this, you will consider donating to this most important cause.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Fearless Friday

2009-09-04T15:32:00.004-04:00

Image via Wikipedia

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16 (NIV)

Thank you for joining me for Fearless Fridays once again. Fearless Fridays is a meme started by Angela who authors Free Spirit Haven.

Fearless Fridays is a day when we as believer's in Christ unite and stand in the gap for those in need of prayer. To join Fearless Fridays, click on the link above.

Let us stand in the gap for the following:

Let us pray for our president and all government leaders in the U.S. and around the world. Pray that they be surrounded by Godly staff members. Pray for them to receive wisdom. Pray God's protection over them and their families. Pray for them to have truth and integrity.

Let us pray for our children in the U.S. and around the world. Pray for those who need medical attention, food, clothing and shelter. Pray for their protection. Pray for guidance. Pray that they are not led astray by false teachers.

Let us pray for families everywhere. Pray that the family unit remain strong. Pray that the family unit remain firmly grounded in Jesus Christ. Pray that nothing formed against family units be able to prosper.

Let us pray for our military and their families. Pray for protection, strength, guidance, wisdom, peace, God's presence, courage, health and a clear mind.

Let us pray for those who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior. Pray that God changes their hearts and that someone comes into their life who will declare boldly the love of Christ.

Let us pray for one another.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

If you need prayer please leave a comment on this post or any of my post throughout the week. Or email me at

GOSPELSCOOP@GMAIL.COM

IT WOULD BE MY PLEASURE TO PRAY FOR U

Bigger and Better Things

2009-09-02T19:05:00.004-04:00

Image via Wikipedia

Oh how I love my daughter, Jailynn. As you well know, I write a lot about her. She is so inspirational to me and I am so proud of her. She always has a smile no matter how bad her day has been. She is always upbeat and lively. She is a true blessing from the Lord.

Jailynn tried out for volleyball last week and this week. I never knew tryouts could take almost two weeks, but she has a large class (there are over 360 7th graders) and she said about 40-50 girls were trying out. Yes, that is a lot isn't it?

She would come home everyday saying how the coach said she is a natural "spiker." He said she had a "natural gift for volleyball. We just knew she was going to make the team. She was so excited and just could not wait for the day to arrive when they picked the 7th grade team.

The big day arrived. I could not stand the wait. I kept looking at the clock waiting for her to come home. In she walks with her dad. He has a sad look on his face, yet she was smiling and bubbly as usual. He broke the news to me that she did not make the team. My heart sank. I grabbed her and gave her a big hug and asked her if she was all right. She looked at me with that beautiful smile and said these words, "it's okay mommy. God has bigger and better things for me."

Can you imagine that? She was not upset at all. She knew that God had something bigger and better for her to do. Tears rolled down my face. I told her, "you have such great faith in the Lord for someone your age. I am so very proud of you." She looked at me again and said, "That's because I have the best teacher in the world on God, YOU."

Oh how the tears rolled! My baby girl is such an inspiration to me. I knew from the moment she entered this world she was destined for great things. I knew she would be something special. I am waiting for her destiny to be revealed in time.

Thank you Lord for the "bigger and better things" you have in store for us. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Thank you Lord for Jailynn and the plans you have for her. Thank you Lord for giving me such a wonderful daughter.

Grace and Peace

Book Review: What's He Really Thinking? By Paula Rinehart

2009-08-31T15:41:00.007-04:00

There have been many books written on how women can understand the way the man in our lives think, act, their emotions and what they expect from the female counterpart. Paula Rinehart's book: What's He Really Thinking: How to be a Relational Genius with the Man in Your Life" is no exception. In fact, when I showed my husband what I was reading, he looked at me and said these words, "You can read all the books you want to about understanding men, but you never will." Hmmm. Have you heard these words before?

I gave this book 2.5 stars out of 5. I was bored with it from the beginning. The one thing that bothered me the most was the subtitle of the book, How to be a Relational Genius with the Man in Your Life. Let me tell you, after reading the book, you do not become a "relational genius." In fact, I was more confused after reading the book than before I started. Yes, she uses biblical scriptures throughout the book and she tries her best to get us to understand the way a man thinks, acts, his emotional side and what he expects, but it just did not go deep enough for me. I need more clarification on just what goes on inside a man's head as well as his heart.

There is one part I did like about the book which of course is at the end (and no it is not about sex either LOL) but it is about how to pray over the men in your life. She lists scripture after scripture to use to pray over the men in your life. Now, there is a discussion section which can be used as part of a group setting if you so desire. But, you will probably learn more from your discussion group than from reading the book.

I have come to the conclusion, my husband is right. We can read all the books on "how a man thinks and acts" all we want, but we will never fully understand the male gender. The only One I can think of who can understand a man totally is God. Men are simply one of God's beautiful creations we will never understand. My recommendation for this book, get it from your library or borrow it from a friend before purchasing. I am glad I got to review the book for free as I would have been upset if I had paid for it.

Jesus Is Everything

2009-08-30T14:37:00.007-04:00

JESUS IS EVERYTHING YOU NEED.

As I sit here and think about the goodness of the Lord. I look back at my life and I see how God has blessed me in so many ways. He has saved my life on more than one occasion. He has delivered me from the hands of the enemy who was bound and determined to destroy me. He has put the broken pieces of my life back together again.

The greatest sacrifice God made for me and for everyone on this earth...giving His Son, Jesus Christ to die for our sins.Not just me. Not just my husband. Not just my children. EVERYONE, including YOU.

Could I give my child as a sacrifice for all? No, I could not.

Could you? Would you?

But God! who loves us so much, sent His one and only unique Son to die for us. A death which our minds can not imagine. A death so horrible that one can not describe. Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrificial Lamb endured a horrible death for us.

FOR YOU.

Why? Because He loves us.

HE LOVES YOU

Today, I ask you to look back over your life. Think about the many ways you could have been taken off this earth. You will see God was there all along. Yes, there may have been some painful times in your past. You may even ask, how could God have been with you? He was.

Let me ask you this question, are you reading the words on this page right now? If you answered yes, God was and still is with you. You survived whatever painful and horrible things that happened to you. You survived because the hand of God was upon you. You survived because God loves you.

Jesus Christ is all you need to make it through this life. With Him leading the way, you can overcome anything. The love of Jesus Christ is stronger than ANY, ANY love there is on this earth.

Simply believe and trust in Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ is EVERYTHING you need.

I implore those of you who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior to do so. Simply say,

"Father, forgive me. I know I have done wrong against you. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins. I accept Jesus Christ as my Savior this day. I believe in my heart you have forgiven my sins. Thank you Father for giving me a new life. AMEN."

If you have said this prayer, WELCOME TO THE FAMILY OUR NEW BROTHER OR SISTER IN CHRIST. WE LOVE YOU!

Did you say this prayer? I would love to hear from you.

I love you and I am here for you.

Grace and Peace

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2009-04-22T00:00:00-07:00

ABIDING IN HOPE AND LOVE
A post about a wonderful poetry book which is a must have!