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Showing posts from 2009

Goals and The New Year

Once again a new year is upon us. It is time for reflection and realignment of goals. Goals are small steps we each can take to further our success in everyday life. I try not to make new year resolutions. Instead I make a list of things I would like to accomplish in the following year. As I reflect on my current list it falls into several categories. I am listing the top three and how I start determining my plan of action. As I focus on each area, of Spirit, Soul, and Body I will co-ordinate my personal plan of action. You do the same for yourself. Spirit- the principle of conscious life; 1. (My intentions/goal) My mental determination to stay organized, focused and methodically move toward my goals. This involves a whittling away of what is not necessary in my everyday life on a regular basis. To be evaluated routinely. In my case, daily, the night before a new day. As with any plan...adjustments will be made as needed. It is necessary to recognize your small and large success in a

Are YOU Prepared to Live?

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 Original water color painting " Weeping May Endure for a Night, but Joy Cometh in the Morning" copyright © 2005 Debbie Turner Chavers  This is a reminder to love one another and live your life fully given unto the Lord . No man knows the time table of the Lord. We each have been appointed a time to die and a purpose under heaven. Most of us are fairly sure that we are not prepared to die. Yet, are we prepared to live? Precious people all around the world died yesterday, today, and will die tomorrow. You have been created and appointed to serve the Lord with your life and your gifting. Are you applying yourself to your appointment? Are you loving others and walking in forgiveness? Prepare to Love and to Live. Today is a unique opportunity for YOU . Prepare to LIVE . Even when your hopes, dreams, or a loved one leaves, you must live. Grab the gift of your life and live. Do not wait any longer. Armour yourself in His love and LIVE. Live and love each pre

Enough

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 Enough © Debbie Turner Chavers  Elijah was a prophet in the Old Testament who loved God and did many things in the strength of the Lord. But there came a time when he was worn out. So worn out and discouraged that he asked the Lord to let him die. 1 Kings 19:4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I [am] not better than my fathers. 1 Kings 19:5 And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise [and] eat. 1 Kings 19:6 And he looked, and, behold, [there was] a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again. 1 Kings 19:7 And the angel of the LORD came again the second time, and touched him, and said, Arise [and] eat; because the journey [is] too great for thee. Now as you read

1 Year Blog Anniversary/LOLO

Yesterday was my one year blog anniversary for this encouragement journal. I started out writing a few of the thoughts and processes that I use to encourage myself. Living out loud online. LOLO ! my encouragement journal :) I have always loved to encourage others as well as receive encouragement. I did my part and you through your prayers and emails of support ministered right back to me:) Thank you. I know that when we get to heaven we will know then the difference that our love and how our lives lived have affected others. But for now I will take encouragement by the purposed and random acts of kindness from others. Mine to others and theirs toward me and mine. You make a difference, I make a difference. Praying that we all continue fighting the good fight of faith. Loving and leaving a positive impression of God's great love toward us all. ~Debbie 2 Peter 1:10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye sh

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day is a few hours away and I want to encourage you to count your blessings. Yes, one by one. It might sound time consuming, but try it. You will be surprised at how much better you feel. Thanksgiving is a national holiday. But thanksgiving is something we can celebrate daily as we think on those things which bless us. In the Old Testament there were different types of offerings. Some were required by the Old Testament law and some offerings were free will offerings. In other words, offered at will by the individual in gratitude.. Today, Jesus shed blood made the final sacrifice by the offering of His shed blood and body on the cross. And His offering fulfilled all that was needed. Yet, I can still offer God by my free will, a thanksgiving offering. A thanksgiving offering of looking for the good and thanking Him. Offering Him my grateful attitude. By expressing in word and deed, that I am thankful for His provision. You can chose to look for the good in your life and be t

Volunteer

You have the opportunity to make a difference in the world. Your input, your presence, are needed. Reach out. How can you add value to another person or a situation? By volunteering to help outside of yourself and your needs. This might be as simple as helping someone close to you. Example: A neighbor. You have been gifted to bring about positive change in your world. There are people and things that make up your world and your circle of influence. You can make a positive difference. Prayerfully consider the needs around you. The world is full of needs. Make a choice. Not once, but daily. Prayerfully consider where your time and effort should be spent today. Do not make a job of it. Today. You are giving something from yourself today. Your gift of volunteering could be 10 minutes of undivided helpfulness toward another persons need. This is not an opportunity to be used but to be useful. Regardless of our time commitments we can schedule a bit of volunteering. Obviously you have commit

Leftovers! Again

I love to have a gourmet meal prepared for me. To see that someone took the time and effort to gather the ingredients, prepare and serve a great meal intended for me. How great is that? Even leftovers can be a great meal from such an effort. But for most of us, a thrown together batch of ingredients make up our meals and our lives. Bits and pieces gathered together as we live and shop in a hurry to just get the task accomplished. I have noticed that we tend to handle our relationships with one another in the same way. This will work for a while, but eventually you will discover that something is missing. Relationships are not prepackaged meals. And a great leftover is still a leftover. Relationships require hands on prep work. They take time. Your time. Relationships require a gourmet meal approach on a regular basis. This ensures that our emotional bank will be replete. We all need to be fed. No exceptions. When cooking, you can find nutritious viable options for feeding yourself

Do Not Give Up

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There are times and seasons in which we need to let go, but not give up. There is a need to hang on to God's word and God's timing. There have been times, when I started to give up on a situation or a person. Yet, the Lord would impress me to give the situation or the person a bit more time. Time to grow, time to be watered, time for the light of God to shine forth in our hearts. In the natural our faith is matured through a growth process. As with all things this takes time. If the Lord plants a seed in your heart to believe for something beyond your natural mind, you need to let it mature. Maturity happens as a thing, person, or situation is left in the ample, sovereign hands of God. If you try to make something happen before its time, results can be less than expected. It is hard to wait. And wait. And wait. But wait. The Lord of the harvest knows when the seed is matured and ready to be harvested. God knows the desires of our hearts and the good plan that H

Fall Back

Soon it will be time to Fall back for daylight savings time. Another adjustment in our everyday life. At this time, I am prioritizing my time commitments and falling back to things that worked better in all areas of my life. I try out new things and ways of managing on a regular basis. Fine tuning things as I go along, and with that acknowledgement, I am reminded that new and different is not always better . Time management and our lives need adjusting with the seasons. Seasons of the year as well as the seasons of our lives. Just as the calendar announces a soon to be time change. We need to thoughtfully consider the changes that are happening in and around us. There is a time for all things. Recognizing when to spring forward and when to fall back is an important tool in our way of managing life. I am cleaning out that which does not bring life to me and moving forward on necessary things . I want to encourage you to do the same. Just as the trees lose their leaves, we too need to sh

He Showed Me the Rain

As I have become older, I have thought about the impact we each have on the lives of others. I have grieved over the loss of good friends who are gone. And I have wondered "What happened?" to acquaintances who did not stick around long enough to be more than an acquaintance. Usually these people were needy and took the gift of friendship and left. Friendship takes time. Friendship is like learning to dance. Step by step you figure out the friendship rhythm without losing your own beat. Friends complement your dance even if occasionally they step on your toes. As I pondered the wonder and gift of friendship, the Lord showed me the rain. The slow steady drizzle, a mist, and the drenching rain. Rain that falls quickly, rain that covers with moisture and rain that arrives with noticeable intent As I questioned Him, "How and why can we pour out love and help into another person and just be forgotten? Used in some instances and then discarded? He showed me the

What Side Are You On?

The beginning of Simon Peter's walk with Jesus. Matthew 4:18,19,20 And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. John 21:3,4,5,6 Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing . But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus. Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No. And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes. After reading these scriptures, I started thinking about the sentence "Cast the net on t

Ruffled Feathers

Have you ever had a day where one thing after another seemed to rub you the wrong way? I had that kind of day last week. One thing after another gave me an opportunity to react in a not so patient way! I found myself....puffing up. Typing this is starting to make me laugh. I can just see my frustrated self in my minds eye. I probably didn't look all that different on the outside....but on the inside....I was ruffled! I tried to put a smile on my face and keep walking, one foot in front of the other. But no. Not working. Still smarting from the aggravation of my day, I heard the still small voice of the Lord tell me to separate myself from the group I was with and take a break for a few minutes alone. Explaining that I needed to go sit on a bench outside for a few, I left the group, to gather my thoughts and reclaim a better attitude. I found a bench and sat down, still puffed up and ruffled inside. Within seconds of my obedience to separate myself and get a grip on my attitude...I

Flowers For YOU!

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I found this bouquet at an flower site. Aren't they beautiful? I like to receive flowers all year long...not for any particular reason. As I was thinking of everyone who reads this or will read it...I wanted to give everyone flowers. Just because. Not for a special reason, but for a special person. YOU:) Enjoy! Enjoy the flowers and enjoy the beginning of fall. ~Debbie

Prayer Encounters

It seems each day has a specific need to be met. I am grateful for prayer encounters. Prayer encounters are prayer requests, sometimes verbal beacons sending out an SOS to those who would seek God's heart. We are to lift one another and our burdens through physical help as well as prayerful petition. If you ask God what to pray for and whom to pray for you will amazed. Sometimes the request comes from someone face to face. Sometimes it is a link from someone else. There have been seasons that I knew I was to pray. Not just my everyday communication with the Lord, but specific requests that came in such odd ways. The seemingly random conversation overheard in a line at a store check-out, getting gas, the post office line. Usually, most of us are processing a lot of information just with our normal everyday life and yet... If the Holy Spirit awakens your prayer response..pay attention. Pray then , pray every time He reminds you of that person or encounter. Praying always. Not religio

Jealousy

Jealousy is a little discussed subject, yet it is one that we all need to consider and repent of when we give in to its self destructive pattern. Have you ever had someone who rubbed you the wrong way. Thinking...I do not know why, but they aggravate me! Well! most of us have had this issue rise up within us and sometimes with very negative results. So carefully think over your own heart. Is any of your behaviour caused by jealousy? Think about it and prayerfully consider what you should do about it. Here is a brief prayer that I prayed. Father, consider my ways and help me to choose your way. To love the unlovely, even if that is me at that time. Help me to forgive myself and others and value myself and others as you do. In Jesus name, Amen. ~Debbie

Shine

Did you ever sing the song "This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine. Not going to hide it under a bushel, NO, I am going to let it shine! Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine." I remember going to Sunday school a few times during my childhood and I left the class with this song. The song stayed with me through the years, although I did not understand its meaning, I knew I wanted to shine! After becoming an adult, I chose to accept Jesus Christ as my Saviour and allow His light to shine in and through me. There are still many things that I do not understand. Yet, I do understand that I am to shine as a light in this dark world. You are to shine. For years I walked in darkness and lived my life in darkness. Nothing is clear in the dark. Only when the light is shown does the darkness recede. Darkness does not disappear. It is still present, but is pushed aside by His light. Jesus Christ in you is a light that can illuminate the darkness. Today I want to en

Walking Gracefully

Have you ever insisted on having your own way? Were you happy with the result? Trusting God and walking peacefully in God's timing can be like wearing your first pair of high heels. Wobbly, at best and practice is needed. There are things that I have desired so greatly, that I would convince myself, I surely needed to help God on this one! Wow! Wrong!! I have never been happy with the result. Sometimes it is a small mess to clean up and sometimes it takes a dump truck! Forget high heels....think rubber boots. If you find yourself at the wrong end of a good intention or an argument, repent as quickly as possible. The root of repent is to turn in the opposite direction. After falling flat on my face and rear more times than necessary I have learned to step lightly and for balance at times I have needed to walk with the Bible on my head as well as in my heart. Ephesians 6:15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Walking softly and carrying His w

What Smell?

Recently, my kitchen disposal broke. Needless, to say, an opening without a drain basket is an opportunity for a big mess. After determining the problem, I commenced upon a solution. A drain basket over the opening until a replacement could be arranged to be installed. In the meantime, I had to clean out the hole, that had just received a large mess! EWW!!! Well, I thought I had removed all of the mess from the drain. Rinse, repeat, rinse again. It appeared clean to me . That is, until my daughters came to visit and told me there was a slightly bad odor in the house. What! EWW! What smell? After all, I had not noticed a bad smell. My daughters laughed and told me there was definitely a bad smell which I could not smell because I had been exposed to it all day. Hmm ...that made me think. How often does our attitude, or our outlook have a slightly bad odor? Stinky thinking Sometimes others notice what we have not noticed and care enough to tell us. So today, even if you think your attitu

NOT Forgotten

Have you ever felt forgotten? Well, God has not forgotten you. Regardless, of the situation you find yourself in, you are remembered. As you go about your everyday life, it is important to remind yourself that you are not forgotten. Regardless, of your view of yourself. In Psalm 139, the Lord reminds you that before you were formed that He knew you. If you have ever nursed a child, you know how impossible it is to forget a child. Your bosom has to be emptied! You will stop whatever you are doing to relieve the pressure. In Isaiah the Lord reminds you that He has that same care for you. Maybe at times it feels as though you go unnoticed or that you are working endlessly. Take heart. Your effort is noted and appreciated. You are not forgotten. Slowly read and chew on the scriptures below and insert your name. Really consider that God , the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end is telling YOU and Me that He will not forget us. WOW! Thank you God :) ~Debbie Isaiah 49:15 Can a woman f

Guest author "Kristin Espinasse" of A Day in a French Life...

Kristin writes from her heart about life as she views it from an American perspective while living in France. Kristin is married to Jean -Marc and has two children. They live on a vineyard and produce wine that can be purchased here in America. Kristin lived in Arizona before she met her beloved and decided to live in France. She has written a book that you can find for sale on her blog. Kristin also takes beautiful pictures of the places she visits and her lovely local scenery. If you enjoy beautiful photography check out Kristin's art at Cinema Verite. Thank you Kristi for allowing me to share your writing. Recently her newsletter via her blog http://french-word-a-day.typepad.com/ recounted a story of an encounter while on vacation. I thought it was well written and touched on things that we all notice as we settle in with our faith whether publicly or privately. A light on a hilltop is to shine and we are to go and tell. In Kristin's case it was in Croatia while vacation

Knowing Your Purpose

Knowing your purpose helps keep you focused when life spins. My study this morning led me to John 13:3,4 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God; He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. The thing that jumped off the page to me was that He knew . There is a time in your relationship, in all relationships that you have to " KNOW." You have to know that though people fail, GOD does not. And even when your natural inclination is to panic...you know there is no need. There is no need because He is Jehovah Jirah, your provider . There is no need because you know that the Father has given all things into his hands and that he came from God and he went to God. And just as Jesus was able to focus on His mission because he knew his purpose and what he was on this earth to do, you too can focus on your mission. God has promised to work all things for our good to th

This is Painful.

Are you broken? I am considering this question from several angles. It is necessary to allow God to break you in some areas....to remold any given area to reflect His glory. This is painful. At times I have willing submitted to a known area of needed breaking down and fixing. And at other times, I have been broken and fixed......screaming and kicking, all the way to the potter's wheel! It hurt each time, willing or unwilling. Each choice brought a different form of pain. Yet each time there is a beauty that appears in my character that I have to acknowledge would have never of happened unless the breaking occurred. Oh! Sometimes.... I can see the crack of "less than" concerning His will in my life. At times it is glaringly obvious to others and myself. At times it is a struggle for me to understand or see the less than divine nature I exhibit. God wants to conform you and I into the image of Jesus Christ. This is painful. Our natural man appears deformed spiritually and

Fruit

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Sitting on the back porch this morning I noticed the okra plants with their pretty yellow flowers and okra pods, standing tall and reaching upward. Even in nature, most things reach up to the light. My garden is right off the screened back porch. I can see tomato plants, apple and cherry trees, okra, and hydrangeas from this vantage point. Each started as a seed, it grew, it flowered, and then it made fruit to be eaten. I noticed that most things bud with a flower but not all have fruit that can be eaten. My fruit trees had flowers then the flower fell away and I had a tiny fruit in its place. My vegetables had flowers and repeated the cycle. Flower first, then something to eat. I think we are like that as Christians. First we flower under the Son and as we mature, others may pick, the sometimes small fruit from our lives. But it is fruit, however small. In God's garden on this earth, let us strive in Christ Jesus to flower and bring forth fruit. Because God expects us to have fr

Be Not Weary-Life Happens

Are you weary? I am. As I write this this morning I consider the things that lie before me. Some days it is nothing but sheer effort that moves us forward. It may be from a general lack of rest,difficult people and difficult situations, to there just doesn't seem to be an end in sight. Ever have one of those kind of days? or weeks? or months? I have. Well the scripture below has been a softly humming song in my mind all morning. I want to suggest that you take a few moments to consider the need to realign your mind with God's good word to you and me. He promises a harvest if we persevere until the end. Do not think it unusual, that with the best laid plans that life still happens. The issue is not life but how we skillfully apply God's word to our lives. Remember it is not that you will not have cause to be weary, you will. Just remember that there is a harvest time coming, do not give up!!!! Rest as you need to, think on His word, and do not consider it unusual the trials

Letting Go of Cockatoo Dreams

Everyone seems to be on a journey to find themselves. And yet.......here we are. So busy pleasing others. Reaching out for ......the elusive self. Pushing down our needs. Giving out seeds. Seeds sown.....to others who have grown. Past our self-sacrifice to parts unknown. And yet.....here we are. Waiting on the harvest. Heart in hand, thoughts afar to times past When we toiled.....to see a harvest at last. Everyone seems to be on a journey to find themselves. And yet....here we are. ~Debbie Turner Chavers I have written some of my thoughts as poetry at different times in my life. This poem and others are in my journal titled "Letting Go of Cockatoo Dreams".

Encourage

Everyday we have the opportunity to encourage one another . There are so many issues that each of us face that we would do well to remember we are not alone. You may feel alone, yet you are not. It is easy to become absorbed in our own problems. Yet we can make an eternal difference by remembering to stir one another up in remembrance of God's goodness to each of us. Do not forget to encourage yourself. Speak good things to yourself and about yourself and others. I was reading Deuteronomy and saw how important encouragement was to the promotion of good things and God's plan for man. Moses was told to encourage Joshua, because he would cause Israel to inherit the plan of God. Do not belittle your ability to truly make a difference by your kindness to someone and the gift of encouragement that could make all the difference in the world. Joshua was an anointed leader that God used to bring about His plan for Israel. Yet, obviously he needed encouragement. You need encouragement.

What Are You Doing?

What are you doing? I fell asleep with this sentence dancing across my mind last night. This tango of thought was center stage due to the ordering of my life. All my life I have had a well rehearsed plan of action that I danced around to the tune of someone else's beat. There comes a time when you must take the lead. And for me...that time is now. Thus the question. What are you doing? Ah! What am I doing? A question to which I am not sure how to answer. The doing part I can manage quite well, since laziness has never been an issue. I have had many others, such as procrastination, fear, selfishness, and the list goes on. But not true laziness that caused me to waste time, money, or effort on the behalf of someone else and their interest. But the dilemma is when I am doing something for or about me. But, I digress! The question still awaits an answer. What am I doing? So here I sit......thinking. As I mentally walk around this question I have to view it as though I am advising some

Faithful

The older I become the more I value faithfulness. Repeatedly, it is a virtue that is needed on a daily basis. Life has a way of throwing curve balls and it is necessary to have someone watching your back, your front, and your sides! There is a blessing that one receives from being faithful. The Lord promises that if you will be faithful in little that He will promote you to greater authority or ruler over many things. In the natural, the first thought is that promotion is realized in the physical realm. But as you think on it and experience the reward of this you come to realize it is a spiritual reward as well. The act of faithfulness in any area cost you something. Yes, there is a price to be paid. Faithfulness requires commitment. If not to the person or situation, then most certainly to God's word. Matthew 25:21 ends with joy, but the process of faithfulness usually starts with tears or anger. It is hard to be faithful. To continue to believe the best, to do the best, and to

Our Cross

Our Cross Take up your cross and follow me. I for one am glad that His cross is empty and that He is risen! But today I am contemplating "my cross" as His disciple. What about that cross? He carried His cross and rose in victory to sit on the right hand of the Father. But we are still here. My cross. Well on all accounts that just sounds awful! Who wants a cross? Oh, yes, a beautiful ornamental cross that we can display as a jewelry accessory. But a cross that I need to carry and not even on a trail of my choosing? Wow! Sounds like that might be difficult. As followers of Christ we each have a cross to bear that is ours in particular. And even as the man conscripted to help Christ carry His cross to Golgotha we too have help when the load is too much to bear because of the task set before us. Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. My cross appears to be the things in life t

Marathon=Focused Intensity

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Are You Thirsty? © Debbie Turner Chavers Sometimes life seems like a marathon. On some days I train hard and yet forget to eat and drink. I find my strength is feeble and the road seems too long. And yet....there is a cool spot of shade and running water just ahead. There is a spring of living water that beckons and with the last of my resolve I push through until I fall in an exhausted heap of need beside the still water of His presence. My soul hungrily devours His presence, until peace replaces my need and strength floods my soul. I have watched others running with all their might toward a goal of dubious value and yet they knew they had to train, and strengthen their body's endurance to last until the finish line. There are people who will stand on the side lines to cheer them forward and hand off a cup of water to help them on their journey. There is an inner urging to keep moving toward the finish line. A focused intensity. There is a need to focus our intensity. I

Words, Weed and Reseed

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Words, words, and more words. We talk and talk and talk some more. Simply said...most of us talk too much and do not say enough. Communication is more than words, it is the fruit of our actions. Scripture tells us that our tongue is a small member that can start a fire. Think before you speak. Our words are seed. There will be a harvest. If you have planted...you will reap. The Lord impressed upon me the seriousness of our (my) words. Are you reaping what appears to be a foreign crop. Have you no idea from whence it came? Consider your seed...your words...your declaration...your idle chit chat. After a time of reflection many years ago, I found that I was reaping an unwanted harvest. I told the Lord that I did not know what to do. He told me if I did not like the harvest that my words and actions had planted, that I needed to " Weed and Reseed" my fields. The garden of our lives needs constant attention. Do not be idle. Plough the garden of your life with a tongue that

An Excerpt From " A Dog's Purpose"

A friend sent an excerpt from "A Dog's Purpose" to me a few days ago. I would love to credit the person who wrote it but they did not forward the authors name. Enjoy! Here is a list of things you could learn from a dog. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy. Take naps. Stretch before rising. Run, romp, and play daily. Thrive on attention and let people touch you. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do. On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass. On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree. When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk. Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you're not. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently. EN

Bread Trail

I have found over the years that it is easy to lose one's way in unfamiliar surroundings. At times I have commented to others that I felt directionally challenged. Thus I own and use a GPS unit frequently. I have learned to ask for direction and landmarks, careful to write down any necessary information. In life, you may find yourself directionally challenged. I have a sure compass that gets me to my destination safely every time. In the natural I use the GPS and all available resources. In the spirit I have learned to follow the bread trail. Whenever someone is lost they will tell you to leave a noticeable trail of where you have been. Mark a trail . Studying and reading the Word of God gives us a trail or path to follow. If I seem to lose my way, I return to the last piece of bread (God's written word) that I dropped into my spirit. Life can be an obstacle course if you do not have a clear sense of direction. God's word will lead us in the right direction. I don't kno

No Parking

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While walking, I saw this sign on the edge of a parking lot for another business that joined the church yard. I was waiting on an appointment and decided to walk for a bit. As I walked around the lot, I continued to think about the " NO Parking " sign that appeared to be in front of the church building and the three crosses. I am posting my picture of it to remind you of our commission. The building that believers gather in is a place to learn and worship the Lord as a group, it is not a place to park . There is work to be done. Even your sins are not to follow you. Don't park there . Leave them. See the three crosses in the picture? They are empty! Jesus did not park there. He did what He came to do and said "It is Finished." And He moved forward. His disciples did not park at Golgotha. They went to Jerusalem and waited, or temporarily parked until they received power from the Lord by being filled with His Holy Spirit. Pentecost. Acts 1:8

Gardening

Recently, I had the opportunity to pull weeds out of my garden and flower beds. The weather was balmy, but regardless of the beauty of the day, weeds are not welcome in my garden! It has been awhile since I weeded the beds and they needed attention. It amazed me as I gardened how even weeds can blend in and not seem so bad...thus my lack of attention to this area. The last time that I weeded the garden and flower beds I carefully pulled and pried gently until I thought I had removed every little bit of the rootlet. Weeds have a way of blowing in from other yards and through the air via birds, insects, etc.... As I felt the warm sun on my face and back, I pondered all the activity and growth of these unwanted visitors. It reminded me of myself and my walk with the Lord. My soul tends to get weeds in the garden of my heart and mind if I am not regularly tending to their care. Bad habits and sin have a way of leaving rootlets that without the regular watering and light of God's word t

Hello

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I am posting today to let you know that I have been given the opportunity to be interviewed on television in Tennessee. The Christian Television Network, CTN, local station WHTN, the program is Bridges, hosted by Monica Schmelter. The show will air on June 4, 2009. That is Thursday of this week. I was given the opportunity to show some of my work and introduce my Christian art line, Art Parables, Visions of His Word ™. http://visionsofhisword.blogspot.com/ or http://www.artparables.com/ The video link was supplied by CTN's station WHTN in Nashville, Tennessee. I am trying to load the video but have not been successful, due to the format. Note: The picture above was copied from the Bridges link. I want to acknowledge the kindness of Monica and everyone at the station. I would also like to encourage you this week to not only watch my first television interview, but Bridges on a regular basis. Monica daily touches on issues that are relevant in the world today. ~Debbie Turner

Stretch

Proverbs 31:20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. Dorcas was someone in the bible who was known to live this verse of Proverbs. Acts 9:36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and alms deeds which she did. Acts 9:37 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid [her] in an upper chamber. Acts 9:38 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring [him] that he would not delay to come to them. Acts 9:39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.Dorcas was sick and had died, Acts 9:40 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and pray

In Memory

Today, is Memorial Day, a day to remember the sacrifice of those who died to give us the freedom to live day to day. Their sacrifice caused them to lose their lives. To those who have someone that gave this sacrifice.. Thank you . But I also think that we should thank those who have sacrificed through their daily service to the betterment of their families, job, or country. There are many unsung hero's amongst us. Today, look around. Who amongst you has given more than they thought they had? Who has died to self? Today recognize not only the dead, but the living. The parent who has stood by you through your difficult years. The friend who responded when others had given up on you. Yourself, when you put others first, to your own hurt. Yes, remember the sacrifices of those who have gone on. Yet, I ask you to also remember to thank those who daily die to their own needs......so that you might live. For those of you who have gave and gave some more, THANK YOU. ~Debbie

Timeless Style

What is a girl to do? Regardless of the occasion, we have the opportunity to always be dressed in timeless style, a look that never loses its appeal or the wonders it does for your figure. Proverbs 31:17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. I have fretted for the last time over an appropriate outfit. I have determined that this is my fashion guide for timeless fashion style that works on every occasion. To gird means to wrap up. Loins were the lower back- which is considered a place of stability and strength. In the physical my imagery is of a toned, wrapped up, strong woman. To see her properly we must consider her clothing, armor, or wrapping! Ephesians show spiritually how we should be dressing daily. Going about undressed or without proper clothing is not an option for the woman of God. If we are dressed in the spirit of God, all can behold our individual beauty. This creates a fashion sense that never goes out of style! Ephesians 6:10 Fina

Friends

Today, tomorrow, there is always something that needs attention. In the business of our daily life it is easy to not respond to an email, return a call or forget friends through lack of attention. Most of us, acknowledge within ourselves that something done or said was kind or made us feel special when someone reaches out to us. Yet, according to scripture and common sense you need to respond . I want to encourage you to reach out to someone you might have been neglecting. When you read this, probably the thought of someone in particular will pop into your mind. Who have you neglected? Fix it, quickly. And if you are one of my neglected ones. You are important and I am glad you are my friend. Working on shewing myself friendly, Debbie Proverbs 18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

One

On a regular basis I have noticed that men and women are being degraded by the worlds portrayal of them as objects of contempt, objects of use. From commercials, media, and the general observance of human interaction with one another. When a man or woman is portrayed as an object of use rather than a unique, gift to God, it should make us run to the mirror of God's word. Have we forgotten the beauty of our Creator who made us in His image? God's word says he has made us a little lower than the angels. Do not allow yourself to be debased. You are valuable. You are one who will make a difference. Only you can decide the type of difference you will make in this life. Choose your actions carefully. Our ability to influence is astounding. One does make a difference. Many assume that they are just one person and that their choices and life do not make a difference in this world. This is not true and it is only the enemy of what is best for you who tries to convince you otherwise. Jes

I Can Adjust

How easily do you adjust? Can you recognize a new season when it appears on the horizon? Learning to manage your life during these times is mandatory for your personal well-being. Thinking of future grandchildren, I realized the beauty of enjoyment from a measured distance, rather than a hands on form of management. There is a season for all things, and in managing your choices and your life, there is a need to recognize a season. I relate most easily to raising my children and keeping an orderly home, in that order. In essence, the CEO of my own mini corporation. Running my home life in a smooth fashion was time consuming, yet necessary for the good of my family, as well as my sanity. As they grew, I had to adjust my means of operation in every area of our life, to accommodate the continued growth. This was not always enjoyable, yet, very necessary. Every time there was growth, there was adjustment. Life does not come with an extra hook or extra buttons for increase. You can only zi

Job Description: Salt and Light

On a regular basis we evaluate what jobs we will accomplish that day. Each of us has 24 hours to try to accomplish what is needed. There are so many things that pull at us and DEMAND our attention and time. Sometimes it is a real struggle to know what to do first! There are some things that are obvious...a deadline, an appointment....things that are a commitment. But while we want to show forth excellence, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Prioritize...this gets your head above water every time. Try it! Our job description is not how much we get accomplished, but the way it is accomplished. We are to show excellence in our endeavors, but foremost our given job description is SALT and LIGHT These actions and attributes will place us in areas of authority, service, and recognition. In the natural world as well as the spiritual world, what is sown is reaped. At times, I find myself being pepper instead of salt. It may be hot but it is not digested. Our actions should make others thirsty for

And The Winner Is?

Chosen . Most people want to feel special, singled out for notice. The world has many traditions of bringing notice to those they want to honor. Think about how excited people become at the thought of being a star on the red carpet. Red carpet runways usually signify a special occasion. Someone is being honored. But before the world was made God had already chosen us to belong to Him and to shine in a dark place. The shed blood of Jesus made a royal way for us to walk into the presence of God, the ruler of the Universe. On life's stage, we all have a spotlight to stand in. That light is the Light of the World, Jesus Christ. You have the unique ability of sharing what God has done in you and for you through His son, Jesus Christ. You are a star! And the winner is? Insert your name. Shine...for indeed... we are watching. ~Debbie 1Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath call

If God asked you a question, what would it be?

I find myself on a busy day sending a quick note or quick question for needed information to those that I know. I never really considered how often I ask a question. Being a fairly practical person I want to get an answer and bring any subject to completion when dealing with business. But relationships don't happen that way. And that is the difficult part! There are so many nuances and reasons why people do what they do. And usually they do not give a second thought to any of this! Well, I believe we need too! Have you ever tried to work on a puzzle where one of the pieces is missing or there is a piece that almost fits, but, not quite? Ugh! This will send me to my knees. Literally. Where is that piece? That's the way I feel at times dealing with people who make me look for the missing piece in a relationship and look and look and look. This train of thought was brought about by mulling over some personal issues. Well, like I said...I like completion. So my thoughts were twirl

Save the Date

Have you ever prepared a meal and had your guests not show up? Or have you ever made a really great meal and wished there were someone to share it with you? The majority of people like to entertain and commit a lot of time and effort in sharing a meal. Even if the meal is not a feast, the breaking of bread with others is usually a wonderful event. At times we choose to eat alone but the Lord desires to eat with us and has gone to prepare a place and a wonderful meal for us. I like to eat in my dining room at times and remember meals eaten with others as I sit there. This is usually a good memory, but the other day I saw it in a different light. I sat there eating the simple meal that I had prepared and I realized that none of my loved ones were seated in their appointed chairs. No one on this day showed up for supper, but they all know that they have an open invite to share a meal with me. Some days they take me up on my invitation, but this day I sat alone. As I contemplated this trai