LOLO-Living Out Loud Online™- Walking Out of Darkness

Begging

2012-01-23T12:30:00.000-06:00

For many years I had a cockatoo. Her name was Halo. Halo was always insistent and learned to say Please! early on. As a young bird we had taught her to ask for treats and things by saying Please!

I learned many lessons interacting with Halo. The lesson of patience was acquired quickly by calming this creature. Once Halo had a notion there was not much that could distract her focus. I likened it to prayer. It certainly made me pray!

This is the lesson I learned by listening to Halo beg, "Please,Please, Please". This litany of repetition would be uttered almost in a whisper which would escalate into a full fledged crescendo if not addressed quickly.

On this particular occasion, Halo kept urging me to satisfy her need for a treat. In reality her want of a treat..

And so she started begging, "Please, Please, Please" and on it went.

I was busy so I became annoyed because the thing she was asking for was sitting right in front of her.

Yet, she still kept begging louder and louder, "Please, Please,Please!"

As I listened, I wondered, Is this how I sound to God when I talk to Him?

Begging, please, please for an answer. When in reality there is no need for He has given me the treasures of heaven and has withheld no good thing from me?

Her begging annoyed me, but it made me look at my prayer life differently.

Instead of Please, Please, Please. I asked God to help me have eyes to see His answer right in front of me.

So I could say...

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

~Debbie

Matthew 6:26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God [is] a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good [thing] will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.

Ephesians 1:18,19 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2012 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/ Would you like to hear a bible story read to you? Click here http://www.youtube.com/user/debbieturnerchavers

Agree with God

2012-01-16T09:40:00.000-06:00

"Can Two Walk Together, Except They Be Agreed?"
copyright © 2004 Debbie Turner Chavers
From Amos 3:3

I want to encourage each of you as well as myself to trust in the Lord Jesus.
To trust when all seems lost, when life doesn't make sense. Remember that God is still God.
Period.
That He loves you and wants to do you good and not evil all the days of your life. Jeremiah 29:11
God does not waver or change. Stay in agreement with Him.
Let your confession, your words in conversation and alone, humbly acknowledge, that God is in control and that if He says it, you agree. He gives you peace, even in the midst of great hurt, He is your Prince of Peace. Rejoice in this.
Break out the tambourine! The drums, the bells and the whistles. God is good and He loves us with an everlasting love.
There may be times of sorrow, but rejoice in the Lord, and again I say rejoice.
Life may not be fair, at times people and events may be awful. But God will give you, your suddenly if you hold on and agree with His word. Not your opinion, not your pain, BUT His Word.
Hold on, you are redeemed, SAY SO.
As a child of God we have the light of the world in us. Don't Hide. Get in agreement with what God says about you. God's word is your heritage as His servant. Rise up!
He who redeemed you is mighty, say so! Say so in word and in deed. Agree with God.
Now is not the time to turn over, or give up.

Psalm 107:2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say [so], whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;

Isaiah 54:13 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue [that] shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This [is] the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness [is] of me, saith the LORD.

John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Mark 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

We are more than conquerors through Him that loved us
~Debbie

© Debbie Turner Chavers

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2012 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting or recording? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/ or http://www.youtube.com/user/debbieturnerchavers

The Scent of Water

2012-01-01T22:23:00.003-06:00

Life Line-The Word and Blood of Jesus Christ, Do Not Let Go
copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers

A few days ago I was reading Job 14. Not my favorite book of the bible. Life was hard for Job.
Chapter 14 starts as Job 14:1 Man [that is] born of a woman [is] of few days, and full of trouble.

Life can be hard and hard to deal with, as Job so aptly states. But God gave us His Word to find hope once again. Even in the midst of Job's stated misery, I related to the tree.

Job 14:7 For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease.
Job 14:8 Though the root thereof wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof die in the ground;

As I continued to read, I was caught up in verse 9,
Job 14:9 [Yet] through the scent of water it will bud, and bring forth boughs like a plant.

The scent of water. Hope is like the scent of water. The hope contained in God's word. Just a glimpse, a scent, and we can bloom again. From hopeless to new growth. Resurrection. There is resurrection power in the spoken and applied word of God. I am branching out in the beauty of new beginnings, being watered by the word of the Lord.

God's word is the scent of water to me.....pulling me from the depths of despair, the gates of undone, the hopelessness of yet another failure.
The scent of water...the water of Life. My Life Line.

What did I learn today? That as I am being schooled by the Holy Spirit in God's word, that there is no permanent failure in the study of His word. That as I apply myself, God is ever patient to go over the material contained in living the life He has given me. That life is a process and that He will continue to teach me until I have passed. Passed from this life into the glorious future of eternity.

What did I learn today? That Jesus is the vine and that I am one of the branches.

~Debbie

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2012 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

You are a Masterpiece-Wonderfully and Fearfully Made

2011-11-15T08:06:00.000-06:00

Lately, I have been listening to the preaching of Joseph Prince. His ministry sends daily devotional encouragements. I like to encourage others in their life and their walk with God. So one of the things I do in my own life is to seek encouragement from God, His word, and the encouragement given by others in these areas. I really like how Joseph broke apart the different designations of gifting in today's encouragement. I am enclosing a link below to read it for yourself.
This particular encouragement reminded me of Psalm 139. For indeed God has designed each of us in particular. There is no detail about us that was overlooked. For we are fearfully and wonderfully made. God fashioned each of us as His wondrous masterpiece. I pray that we will see ourselves as His masterpiece and reflect His bestowed goodness toward one another. Today, lift up your eyes and look unto Him, He is well able to meet your every need. You are loved. Shine.

~Debbie

Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

1Corinthians 12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

Psalm 139

Click here to read Joseph Prince's devotional for today.

All writing, poetry, posts, art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/. Want to listen to a bible story? Click here.

Forgive And Let God Do The Rest

2011-10-26T06:44:00.000-05:00

Ephesians 4:32

And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

People like to say, “I can forgive, but I cannot forget.” Have you heard that before? Now, in the first place, nowhere in the Bible does God tell you to forgive and then to forget. It is not in the Bible! The devil is adding something here to make the whole thing burdensome.

God only tells us to forgive because God in Christ has forgiven us a debt we cannot pay. When we do this, we do ourselves a favor because harboring bitterness and unforgiveness can sometimes destroy our health!

So just forgive and let God take care of the rest. When you really forgive, sometimes, He makes you forget. But sometimes, you still remember the incident because it was a major thing in your life. Yet, when you look back at it, the pain is no more there. The sting is gone and you are not bitter.
Joseph had forgiven his brothers before they came and bowed before him. He remembered what they did to him, but he did not remember it with bitterness. (Genesis 50:15–21) So you may remember the incident, but the bitterness is gone because you have put the cross in the picture — “God in Christ forgave me. Daddy, I forgive you. Mama, I forgive you. My cousin, I forgive you.”

When you forgive, forgive by faith, not by your feelings. We walk by faith, not feelings. (2 Corinthians 5:7) Some people are waiting for feelings — “I am waiting, Father, for the right emotion to come on me to forgive that person.” That “right emotion” may never come!

No, forgive by faith, and do it once and for all. Spend time in prayer. Take out your diary and write it down: “Father, I bring this person before you. You know what he did to me. Father, as You forgave me through Jesus’ cross, even though I did not deserve it, by faith, I now forgive this person and I let my anger against him go in Jesus’ name. Amen!”

Once you forgive by faith, you will see the sting of bitterness removed from your heart. You will experience the peace and joy of God filling your mind, and see a greater measure of wholeness in your body!

*Above encouragement is a repost of Daily Grace Inspirations from Joseph Prince Ministries-10-26-2011

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting?
Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/ .
Check out www.youtube.com/user/debbieturnerchavers to listen to a bible story.

The Burden of Disobedience

2011-10-18T07:02:00.002-05:00

Choices
©1999 Debbie Turner Chavers

Last month I realized that part of the reason I retreat from some situations is a refusal to take on someone else's "burden of disobedience". When you know that another has the knowledge and the ability to do God's word, yet refuses to obey, it is a burden.

Their refusal and poor lifestyle becomes a burden to you if you allow yourself to be sucked into a whirl wind of rebellion. This is a choice. Yours and theirs. God has enabled us to make the right choice in all instances.

Rebellion causes people to be miserable and blame others for their choices. Do not become a victim of their choice or their sin.

We are to lift up the name of Jesus by our fruit. By confessing His word, by lending physical help when needed and prayerful help always. Yet, the wicked one is never satisfied with_______ (you can fill in that blank).

Do not allow the choice of someone else to serve the devil make you a victim with them.

Be Led by the Holy Spirit of God in your response and prayer, in all things, with all people.

The burden of disobedience becomes a grief of spirit and mind when you try to do for the other person,what they are not willing to do in agreement with God's word for their well being.

The burden of disobedience is a choice. A wrong choice. But everyone has a choice and is responsible for the choice that is made.

Stay in agreement with God's word on every subject. God will require each mans choice. He has already chosen us.

The disobedient will try to tell you that you are self-righteous, wrong, haughty, full of yourself, responsible for them, to them, and their choice. Wrong.

Yet, no one says these thing to a STOP sign on the road. Yet, this an be an indicator of caution, observation, and thoughtful response.

Ignore it to your own peril.

God gives you a choice. Choose life.

Joshua 24:15
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that [were] on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.
Join me, as I declare,"but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."

~Debbie

Deuteronomy 19-20 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, [that] I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:
That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, [and] that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he [is] thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.

John 15:19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

1 Peter 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 called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

Galatians 6:5 For every man shall bear his own burden.

Matthew 11:30 For my yoke [is] easy, and my burden is light

New book review of The Blessing posted under book review tab.
The Burden of Disobedience is a repost from LOLO, April, 2011.

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright notice© 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers.
Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.
Scripture references taken from the King James bible.
Want to hear a bible story? Click on my channel on to listen or click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/ to see what I am currently painting.

Alone

2011-09-18T09:35:00.002-05:00

Because No Man Is An Island
copyright © 1997 Debbie Turner Chavers

You can have your own way, always, when you are alone.
There is always a cost.
Are you willing to pay?
Most things seem shiny and new when we first receive them.
But humans overall quickly tire of newness.
For after all there really is nothing new under the sun.

The relationship,the job, the car, the house, the children...all things eventually equal work.
Day in day out...work.

Life is a continual adjustment to the other people and things in your life.

This is not necessary if you are alone.

Alone,you can have just what you want...no consideration of another persons feelings, needs,or wants.

ALONE.

Do you want to be alone?

Every path has a destination.
Are you headed in a right direction? Wrong direction? Your direction?
Do you need to change course?
Start over?

You alone make the decision that charts the course for your life.
Simply and profoundly God loves you.

It is your choice.
You never have to be alone.

~Debbie

Ecclesiastes 1:9 The thing that hath been, it [is that] which shall be; and that which is done [is] that which shall be done: and [there is] no new [thing] under the sun.

Proverbs 16:25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof [are] the ways of death.

*You can read more about the painting by clicking on the title of the painting.

** I saw a great video other day by Ryan Shook concerning salvation. The video is entitled "Empty".
click here to see the video.

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Cross Road

2011-09-16T08:05:00.000-05:00

Daily I meet people who are at a cross road in life.
A cross road.
The place where two paths intersect at a given point.

At the corner of my world
I linger, looking for direction
At times I give direction
To those I meet

Sometimes
We meet briefly.
Nod politely.
At times we speak.
t
And cross.
Sometimes walking on the same path.
At times headed in a different direction.

~Debbie

© 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Eight Recovery Principles

2011-09-08T09:45:00.000-05:00

Based on the BEATITUDES by Rick Warren

1. Realize I’m not God; I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and my life is unmanageable. "Happy are those who know they are spiritually poor.” Matthew 5:3
2. Earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to Him, and that He has the power to help me recover. "Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Matthew 5:4

3. Consciously choose to commit all my life and will to Christ’s care and control. "Happy are the meek.” Matthew 5:5
4. Openly examine and confess my faults to God, to myself and to another person whom I trust. "Happy are the pure in heart.” Matthew 5:8
5. Voluntarily submit to any and all changes God wants to make in my life. "Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires.” Matthew 5:6
6. Evaluate all my relationships, offer forgiveness to those who have hurt me and make amends for harm I’ve done to others when possible, except when doing so would harm them or others. "Happy are the merciful” Matthew 5:7 "Happy are the peacemakers” Matthew 5:9
7. Reserve a daily time with God for self-examination, Bible reading, and prayer in order to know God and His work for my life and gain the power to follow His will.

8. Yield myself to be used by God to bring this good news to others, both by my example and by my words. "Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires.” Matthew 5:10

Reprint of an article.

All writing,poetry,posts,art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

30 Days to Taming Your Tongue, What You Say (and Don't Say) Will Improve Your Relationships by Deborah Smith Pegues

2011-08-15T09:50:00.000-05:00

This small book covers such a big issue. Scripture says that our tongue can be a blessing or create a world of trouble, so this was a needed read for me.
I enjoyed the presentation of scripture and a chapter for each day dealing with a different aspect of speaking...or not speaking. There are 30 readings for 30 days. Good common sense in the area of taming the tongue can be beneficial to anyone who wants to improve their relationships.
There are checklists to go over in the back of the book for the continued discipline of taming your tongue.
There is an additional work book available also.

James 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion [is] vain.

James 3:5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!

~Debbie

All writing, poetry, posts, art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Marriage

2011-08-11T07:31:00.001-05:00

Marriage

This picture reminded me of marriage. Two individuals united under His care, a couple sheltered under God's wings. Marriage.

Consider the verses below.

Psalm 91:4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth [shall be thy] shield and buckler.

John 2:2 And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.

Jesus did His first public miracle at a wedding. He was invited, He was called to be there. Have you invited Jesus to your marriage? The Lord cares about your marriage. He does all things well. It is a very wise thing to call Jesus to your marriage.

The first step to the marriage miracle was...He was invited, and His instructions were followed fully.

John 2:5 His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do [it].

How wonderfully simple. God says it..we do it.

~Debbie

*Book review will be posted under the book review tab later today...30 Days to Taming Your Tongue: What You Say (and Don't Say) Will Improve Your Relationships by Deborah Smith Peques
**Photography credit for the bird picture in this post is unknown by author.

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

My Sin is Prettier than your Sin

2011-07-27T17:22:00.000-05:00

My Sin is Prettier than your Sin. Can you see the absurdity of this statement? I did.

Read John chapter 8 and consider. Drop your stones. What is Jesus writing?

"My sin is prettier than your sin".
This sentence was given to me as I lay upon my bed the other night. I was trying to pray, yet I kept thinking of the flood of information, that had been delivered by several people to me over a period of days.
I sorted through the different emotions that were trying to gain ground in my thought process.
"Nothing doing", I thought. We are called to have the mind of Christ.
That settles it, I will have the mind of Christ.

I was being asked to consider how I view someone else's sin versus my sins. I am asking you, encouraging you to do the same.
Have you ever considered how easy it is to think self righteously about your sin versus the sin of others?
Daily we are given an opportunity to view others and ourselves through the Word of God.
On a personal level, I have had to consider my response to sin.
It is never easy to deal with sin.
Thank God, Jesus has already made a Way.

Therefore, I am to commit myself unto His tender care. To use His word to admonish myself in this earthly walk of love.
To not view myself better than others.
To recognize that my sin is not prettier than your sin. We have all sinned.
Yet God has made a Way and invites us to come clean. Literally.
To be real with one another.
To drop our stones and for each of us to go and sin no more. John 8

Sin is not pretty. Regardless of the degree of perceived sinfulness, ALL sin is wrong, and we have all been wrong.

In consideration of 1 Corinthians 13, I would like you to consider the statement.
My sin is prettier than your sin.
Humans tend to categorize their sin by their personal perception. Such as....little sin, little lies, small offenses, big offenses...the "But I am a good person" defense.

But God, who is righteous, sees the Truth, and He only, is good.

~Debbie

Mark 10:18 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? [there is] none good but one, [that is], God.

Romans 3:9 What then? are we better [than they]? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;

Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean [thing], and all our righteousnesses [are] as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

.

All writing, poetry, posts, art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Author Interview with Catherine Zoller

2011-07-26T15:22:00.001-05:00

Catherine Zoller is the author of The Rhyme and Reason Series. A series dedicated to introducing the word of God in rhyme. The books are a compacted rhyming version of the books of the bible. Easy to read in a sing song fashion...which children LOVE!
Each book is 48 pages filled with rhyme and colorful artwork. The artwork was done by Mr. Sketches.
I read the Genesis book and the Matthew book. A great addition to my library.

Next to be released in the series will be Exodus and then Acts. There are a total of 30 books planned for the series.

For a preview check out the website for Rhyme and Reason http://www.therhymeandreasonseries.com/

The series can be purchased at the Rhyme and Reason website or by special order from any bookstore.

Catherine would love to share her story of God's amazing power and the grace given as we live out our daily lives. Join her in her quest to reveal the heart of the Father by inviting her to speak at your church or group.
For scheduling information please call or email for your next event.

Contact number is (918) 663-8414 or (251) 229-3354 or email: shewrites@catherinezoller.com

Catherine's Interview

1. Introduction of the series. How did you get started with writing Rhyme and Reason?

I had just finished a Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) study of the book of Genesis and was lying in bed trying to think about what I wanted to share with the women on the last day of class when this couplet came to mind: This is the true story of how it all began, God was talking to Himself and came up with a plan. I thought, "That's kind of clever," so I got up and wrote it down then went back to bed. Another one came: In six short days when He shouted the command, up popped the stars, the trees, the seas and land. So I got up and wrote that one down as well. But they kept coming so I finally decided to stay up until the stopped and when I was done, I had put the entire book of Genesis to rhyme! I read it for the women the next day and they went nuts. I was stunned by their response! Everyone wanted a copy and one woman asked me if I had every thought of making it into a children's book. I said, "I hadn't thought of any of it until 3:00 this morning!" But her question planted a seed and I began to pray and ask the Lord if the idea was from Him. Apparently it was!

2. How long did it take you to publish your first book, after you started trying?
Whoo-boy! It took me about three or four hours that night to get it all written, and 13 YEARS to get it published! It was a very long and arduous process. There were many times when I was sure nothing was going to come of it; when it seemed certain the dream was dead. But by God's grace I persevered and He began to slowly open doors. It's been a steep learning curve. Getting published is a very long and complicated process and not for the faint of heart!

3. Can you tell us about your upcoming book?

Yes. "Genesis" and "Matthew" are the first two books in "The Rhyme and Reason Series" and "Exodus" is ready to go to press, followed by "Acts." I don't have a release date for either of them yet, but will be happy to let your readers know once it has been established. We are planning for their to be thirty books in the series. The next six, after the four listed above will be "Leviticus" (and it's the funniest one of them all!), "Hebrews," "Numbers," "John," "Deuteronomy," and "Romans." These are already written as is "Esther" and "Revelation." I'm not sure what the order will be after that, but that's enough to keep me busy for a while!

4. Tell us a bit about yourself. How long have you been born again?

I got saved after a little country preacher picked me up when I was 15 years-old and had run away from the home for juvenile delinquents where I lived at the time. I was hitchhiking toward Florida and he picked me up outside of Monroe, Louisiana, and asked me if I was a Christian. I said, "Yes. I'm an American!" Can you believe that?! He bought me a Dairy Queen hamburger and while I ate he opened up his Bible and began to share the Gospel with me. When I got out of his car I prayed my very first prayer and said, "God, if you are really like that man says You are, I just hope I get caught tonight." Well, I did. The police sent me to a juvenile detention center and while I was there I cried out to the Lord and asked Him to come into my life and clean up the mess and chaos I had created for the past fifteen years.
I'm 53 now, so you do the math. I do words not numbers!

5. Are there any particular things that inspire you to write besides your love of God?

Money! I'm kidding. Sort of.... I did some ghost writing for a couple of years during the time nothing was coming of the series. It was really a lot of fun, except for the deadlines! And it really helped me develop as a writer. I look back on that time as the college education I squandered. One story in particular, about P.G. Vargis, who is a missionary in his own country of India was so powerful and moving I would have to stop in mid-sentence and just weep over the incredible things the Lord was doing in that country.

When I was writing articles for the regional Christian magazine in our area I wrote humorous pieces about my left-brained engineer husband, the challenges of raising three children and what the Lord was teaching me. They had a kind of Christian Erma Bombeck flavor to them.

The story of my oldest son Jordan's heart/lung transplant and death five years later also inspired me to write. I started a book about the whole experience titled, "Living With Lazarus" but I don't know if I will ever finish it. I have the beginning and the end, but was having a hard time fleshing out the middle. But right now I am pretty busy promoting the books and with my speaking ministry. Maybe I'll just hire a ghostwriter to finish it!

6. A favorite spot to write?

We have a small room off the kitchen where our old albatross of a computer sits. I think it was the third one ever made! It isn't portable, so most of my writing was done in there. I put some pretty pictures and inspirational sayings on the wall above it to keep the environment as pleasing as possible. Now I have a laptop, but I keep it on the kitchen table and it never occurs to me that I can actually take it somewhere else to write! Silly, isn't it? I guess we are all creatures of habit.

7. What is your favorite time of day?

When all three kids were still at home I wrote while they were at school. Now that they are all grown and in various stages of gone, I write whenever the urge strikes me.

8. Do you have a favorite snack or drink while you are in the creative process?

Vodka tonics. Ha! I am totally kidding! I hope your readers have a sense of humor! In the mornings I make a giant cup of coffee and sip on it. Other than that, no. I don't snack. I have about forty very stubborn pounds I am constantly trying to lose, but I'm not having much luck.

9. Who is your favorite author or book?

I love Christian biographies. I read non-fiction almost exclusively. I couldn't tell you the last time I read a novel. They seem like a waste of time to me. I want things that are going to inspire me or strengthen and deepen my walk with the Lord. George Mueller's life is incredibly inspiring, but he is just one among hundreds. I continually refer to Richard Foster's book, "Prayer: Finding the Heart's True Home." You'll never guess what it's about!

As for secular stories I still want to be inspired or challenged in some way. I loved both of Laura Hillenbrand's books, "Seabiscuit" and "Unbroken.' I love books I can't put down until I have read the last page. My husband prefers I read books that I can put down long enough to fix dinner!

10. Do you listen to music while you create or do you enjoy silence?

Definitely have to have my tunes! I am listening to John Mayer right now. I like mellow or slightly energetic music with a great melody. My kids have been a great source for keeping me in tune with current artists. No pun intended! If I really need to concentrate, I put on the classical station. I love all kinds of music and it's one of the things I am looking forward to about heaven. Can you even begin to imagine what it will be like to hear all of heaven filled with the sound of glorious praises being sung to our great God?

11. Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Yes. Stop right now. Find something else that will be less challenging. Like mountain climbing, for instance. If they insist on continuing I can only suggest the things that helped me. Join a writer's group. Join a critique group and if you can't find one, start your own. That's what I did. I found three different writers who all wrote completely different stuff than I do and we critiqued each others work. It essential to have thick skin. It's not personal, it's about becoming the best writer and story teller that you can be. And remember, even the very best writers have editors. That's what makes them the very best writers! Find writing contests and make submissions. For a nominal entrance fee you will receive valuable critiques from other writers. Go to writing conferences. They are a huge source for practical workshops, finding an agent or a potential publisher. Whatever you do, don't quit your job!

12. Do you have a favorite quote or scripture and why?

Yes. 1 Corinthians 1:26-28 are my life verses because they perfectly describe what the Lord has done in my life, and what He can do with any life that is submitted to Him.

There is a great story behind Isaiah 40:26, but it would take too long to tell. Suffice it to say, the idea that God has named all the stars always helps me put my problems in perspective. If I have a God of that kind of brilliant magnitude and He is for me, then truly, who can be against me?

I would like to thank Catherine for sharing her talent and answers for this interview. All copyright of the book covers and Catherine's picture enclosed in this article were taken from Catherine's blog.

~Debbie

All writing, poetry, posts, art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Shotgun Gospel

2011-07-21T14:35:00.002-05:00

Daily I realize the gift that God has given mankind, the gift of choice, the ability to come to Him freely.

He has invited ALL to come to Him. God is an equal opportunity Lord of All.

If your choice is wrong there are consequences. Right or wrong choice, a consequence. But you always have a choice. God will not force you into a shotgun gospel relationship. Those who come to Him must come willingly. He wants you to gladly come to the Marriage Feast of the Lamb.

But I ask, "How long will you halt between two opinions? Today is the day. He is knocking at your hearts door asking you to be in an eternal relationship with Him. Marry him. Give yourself and your will completely, wholly to Him. He will in no wise cast you out. He will not divorce you, reject you, or look away when you are less than lovely.

He will behold you and say MINE.

Will you say YES to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords? Will you? If yes. There will be rejoicing.
As with any wedding there will be rejoicing. Angels will rejoice and it will be recorded in the Lambs Book of Life.

A forever commitment.
Jesus, He will never leave you or forsake you.

~ Debbie

Acts 10:36 The word which [God] sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)

John 6:37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

1 Kings 18:21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD [be] God, follow him: but if Baal, [then] follow him. And the people answered him not a word.

Hebrews 3:15 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.

Revelation 19:9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed [are] they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.

All writing, poetry, posts,art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Blood

2011-07-12T08:11:00.001-05:00

The beauty of communion. I do not like pictures of a suffering Christ, yet I find great comfort in partaking in the Lord's Supper.
I celebrate His victory, His obedience, that bought our freedom from sin and death.

Matthew 26:28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.

The shedding of His blood bought you and I the beauty of salvation. Jesus has invited us to accept his offer of salvation and afterwards to remember his gift to us through the taking of Communion. We have been entrusted with the privilege of eating with the Lamb of God here on earth and in Heaven.
To eat, drink and remember His sacrifice, therefore I take communion on a regular basis to remember Him as He said.

If you do a study of the word blood in scripture, you will see that God is quite specific about its importance.
There are 447 listings of the word blood in the bible.
As you read John 6, you will see how blood and its application became a decision point. Jesus was very specific, some would not receive His word.

John 6:66 states that " From that [time] many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him."

Even today, there are disciples that are walking away.
As for me I will repeat what Simon Peter told the Lord in the book of John.

John 6:68,69 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.

The world has taken an ungodly interest in blood. Not the redeeming blood of Jesus Christ, but the consumption of real blood and those that drink it. As you study the Word of God, you can see why the god of this world desires to pervert people's understanding about blood, specifically the drinking of blood by vampires.
There is no redemption in this.
The only drinking of blood that God approves is the remembrance of celebrating Jesus Christ sacrifice through taking Communion. Physically partaking of actual bread and wine, spiritually partaking of the remembrance of His shed blood at Calvary

Luke 22:19,20 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake [it], and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup [is] the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.

John 6:53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.

Will you also walk away from the truth, back into darkness? Have no fellowship with darkness. Walk in the light, as He is in the light.
1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

1 Thessalonians 5:21-23 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Worthy is the Lamb of God

Revelation 5:9,10 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
Revelation 5: 11,12 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, [be] unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

~Debbie

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Unless otherwise attributed, all writing, poetry, posts,art, and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved.
Would you like to see what I am currently painting?
Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

July 1, 2011

2011-07-01T21:11:00.000-05:00

July 1, 2011

Today
I saw you for the first time
A small blip
A bud of a child, complete in Him
Yet growing daily stronger

Today
I saw you for the first time
In the belly of your mother,
on a screen that showed the tiniest heart beat
Almost imperceptible, yet beating in time with His plan
His word has declared that you are wonderfully and fearfully made.
I am in awe and grieved all at the same time.

Today
I saw you for the first time.

© 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers

All writing,poetry,posts,art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Money Secrets of the Amish by Lorilee Craker

2011-06-30T15:59:00.000-05:00

The budget secrets were common sense tips. I was raised by a thrifty mom who re-purposed before it became the "In" thing to do, or "Going Green" etc... She was creative in her financial sensibilities in most areas of our home life.
Ms. Craker's discusses new ways to share gift giving joy in Christmas gift giving. This is an area of spending that a lot of people fall into a debt trap. She shares many tips on how to avoid this money pit.

A quote from the chapter titled, Rethinking Gifts, " I don't know if I'm prepared to receive only a light bulb for Christmas...but I think we could all stand to dial it down about ten notches."

I heartily agree! My best gifts have always been those that were simple and spoke to me of the givers thoughtfulness not necessarily their abundant bank account.
I liked the book. It was an easy read and a doable process for most anyone. There is a list of bartering websites that would be helpful to most. After 14 chapters, you are likely to have picked up something that will help you in your quest to save money and enjoy the simple pleasure of saving more money and sharing with others.

~Debbie

© 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers

All writing,poetry,posts,art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Reboot- Rest

2011-06-22T06:42:00.001-05:00

Time to reboot! I want to encourage you to take at least 24 uninterrupted hours of rest. Notice I said take. This will require a determination and action on your part. Turn off phone, computer, etc.... and just chill out. I have begun to really appreciate the value of unplugging. Life still happens around you but even with all that you will be amazed at how much more you get done afterwards.....after the unplug! Being still to the best of your ability...a Sabbath rest from life. The suitcase, the laundry, the email..etc...can wait. Yes, wait. But an airing out of your temple can not. We are fearfully and wonderfully made. Resting from our life gives the Holy Spirit time to clear cobwebs, open windows, renovate our rooms. Give Him place, rest.

Mark 6:31 And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.

~Debbie

All writing, poetry, posts, art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Extravagant Giver

2011-06-13T10:14:00.001-05:00

Do you have a generous spirit? Are you looking for ways to be a blessing? Will you encourage and help others along the path towards God and His goodness? I want to encourage you to be extravagant in praise. A giver of good things, like your Father in heaven. God is a giver. It is absolutely amazing what a little encouragement can do. Your smile, your word of encouragement, praise, or help can make a true life difference. Don't dismiss your ability to minister the love of God to those in your life and your sphere of influence.

~Debbie

Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

2 Corinthians 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

All writing,poetry,posts,art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

A Prayer for You

2011-06-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

May God richly bless you today and may you arise in your God given anointing to do that which has been prepared for you. That you may walk in the light of His word and fulfill His will in your daily life today and always.
In Jesus name,
Amen.

Countless hugs for each of you :-) because God has loved you with an everlasting love through His Son, Jesus Christ. Take a moment and rejoice with me...this is indeed very GOOD NEWS.

~Debbie

All writing,poetry,posts,art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.
Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Once Saved. Always Saved?

2011-05-31T12:31:00.000-05:00

Questions and answers. From the very first days of my salvation I have been asked about and told of other peoples concept of once saved, always saved.
So I decided to write a few of my thoughts on this question. ..once saved, always saved?
From my perspective it has never been about whether Jesus changed His mind about my salvation, but did I? At any point in my walk with God, past, present or future, did I change my mind?
Am I walking away from Him or toward Him?

He has promised to never leave or forsake me. Did He mean it? Yes.
Did I mean it? Am I backing it up with my obedience? Am I applying myself to the study of His word to show myself approved?

So, I ask myself, "Have I applied it"? Am I applying it? His word, am I actively participating in my relationship with Christ?
Once saved? Yes, I was once saved.
And since I am in a relationship with God through His son Jesus Christ, I have committed myself to the nurturing of this relationship. Not of works, lest I boast, but an active relationship with the one who shed His blood to set me free from all that would hinder me.
The relationship of salvation.
~Debbie

Ephesians 1:13 In whom ye also [trusted], after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

Ephesians 2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

Hebrews 3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

All writing, poetry, posts,art, and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible.

Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

National Day of Prayer-TODAY and Everyday

2011-05-05T20:48:00.001-05:00

God loves us very much and desires for us to walk in His blessing and protective covenant.

Today is a declared National Day of Prayer, but as a people and as a nation, God declares TODAY if you will hear His voice do not harden your hearts.

*Hebrews 3:7-13
Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice,
Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:
When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years
Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in [their] heart; and they have not known my ways.
So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.)
Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

*Deuteronomy 18:10-14
There shall not be found among you [any one] that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, [or] that useth divination, [or] an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch
Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer.
For all that do these things [are] an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee.
Thou shalt be perfect with the LORD thy God.
For these nations, which thou shalt possess, hearkened unto observers of times, and unto diviners: but as for thee, the LORD thy God hath not suffered thee so [to do].

With so much confusion that exists amongst Christians on the subject of horoscopes, tarot cards, etc... I wanted to post an excerpt from a book I am reading right now titled ---

Purging Your House, Pruning Your Family Tree, by Perry Stone.
Pages 29-30:
copyrighted material below © Perry Stone

Christians in covenant with God are also forbidden to consult witches, sorcerers, and those operating through familiar spirits ( Deut. 18:10-12). This includes consulting astrologers who believe your life cycles are patterned after the position of your star charts. Your life is not directed by the stars but by the Creator! The reason God forbids contract with familiar spirits is a simple one --the adversary is a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44). Any prediction made by a familiar spirit involves sorrow, death, suffering and trouble. Jesus came to give you life and life more abundantly (John 10:10)
The Holy Spirit can show you things to come, and His revelation will always be accurate and always point you to Christ. (John 16:13)

All writing,poetry,posts,art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

A Mother, A Proverbs 31 Woman

2011-05-03T10:47:00.002-05:00

A Mother,
Quiet strength, that absorbs the repercussions of a family.

Grace and wisdom
that flows ribbon like through the family tree.

Peace
that finds comfort through the study and application of God's word in the landscape of everyday life.

A Gardener
planting trees of righteousness in her generations.

Toiling and sunning in life's field
Pulling strength from the vine, as the Sun of righteousness arises with healing in His wings.

"Arise children and give Him praise"
A Mother said at the beginning and the end of the day.

A Mother
Proverbs 31 woman, her generations will arise and called her blessed.

~Debbie
© 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers

***Excerpt from my book "Proverbs 31, Verse by Verse "
© 2009 Debbie Turner Chavers

Malachi 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.

John 15:5 I am the vine, ye [are] the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

Click here to read my book review of 90 Minutes in Heaven by Don Piper

All writing,poetry,posts,art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Because He Said So

2011-04-29T08:27:00.000-05:00

The World Can Seem to Bb Flat Without Music
© Debbie Turner Chavers

Because He said so, I can dream and see the reality of my dream. What dream do you have that is waiting to hit daylight?

The sweet dream of success is followed by work.
We all have dreams.
Reclined may be the posture of a dreamer, but up and at them is the stance of those who succeed.
What do you need to do to awake and see the tangible result of your dream?
Just as the world would be flat without music...so the dark of night would be gloomy without dreams.
Awake and Arise to your possibility.

~Debbie

Prayer: Father God help me to apply myself to my possibilities. Grant me the courage to step out and do what I can not do in my own strength.
In Jesus name I pray.
Amen

Philippians 4:13I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Matthew 19:26
But Jesus beheld [them], and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Mark 10:27And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men [it is] impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers
Would you like to see what I am currently painting?
Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

The Burden of Disobedience

2011-04-22T07:19:00.002-05:00

Choices
© 1999 Debbie Turner Chavers

Last month I realized that part of the reason I retreat from some situations is a refusal to take on someone else's"burden of disobedience". When you know that another has the knowledge and the ability to do God's word, yet refuses to obey, it is a burden.
Their refusal and poor lifestyle becomes a burden to you if you allow yourself to be sucked into a whirl wind of rebellion. This is a choice. Yours and theirs. God has enabled us to make the right choice in all instances.

Rebellion causes people to be miserable and blame others for their choices. Do not become a victim of their choice or their sin.
We are to lift up the name of Jesus by our fruit. By confessing His word, by lending physical help when needed and prayerful help always. Yet, the wicked one is never satisfied with_______ (you can fill in that blank).
Do not allow someone else's choice to serve the devil make you a victim with them.
Be Led by the Holy Spirit of God in your response and prayer, in all things, with all people.

The burden of disobedience becomes a grief of spirit and mind when you try to do for the other person,what they are not willing to do in agreement with God's word for their well being.
The burden of disobedience is a choice. A wrong choice. But everyone has a choice and is responsible for the choice that is made.
Stay in agreement with God's word on every subject. God will require each mans choice. He has already chosen us.
The disobedient will try to tell you that you are self-righteous, wrong, haughty, full of yourself, responsible for them, to them, and their choice. Wrong.
Yet, no one says these thing to a STOP sign on the road. Yet, this an be an indicator of caution, observation, and thoughtful response.
Ignore it to your own peril.
God gives you a choice. Choose life.

Joshua 24:15
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that [were] on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

Join me, as I declare,
"but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."
~Debbie

Deuteronomy 19-20 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, [that] I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:
That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, [and] that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he [is] thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.

John 15:19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

1 Peter 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 called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

Galatians 6:5 For every man shall bear his own burden.

Matthew 11:30 For my yoke [is] easy, and my burden is light.

All writing,poetry,posts,art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

God Loves YOU!

2011-04-21T07:01:00.000-05:00

God, Creator of heaven and the earth, LOVES YOU. You can trust Him. He called all things into being, including you. Trust Him, He loves you. He will not forsake you, He will never leave you.. You are not hidden from His eyes. Look up.

~Debbie

Isaiah 40:25-31
To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal? saith the Holy One.

Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these [things], that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that [he is] strong in power; not one faileth.

Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from the LORD, and my judgment is passed over from my God?

Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, [that] the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? [there is] no searching of his understanding.

He giveth power to the faint; and to [them that have] no might he increaseth strength.

Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint.

All writing,poetry,posts,art,and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved.
Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Water

2011-03-31T11:03:00.002-05:00

Green Door © Debbie Turner Chavers

The beginning of warmer weather has brought an amazing display of song birds, robins, and assorted woodland creatures to my yard. The water color painting above is an example of a bird bath that I have in my back yard that we try to keep filled for the birds in my area. Recently, I witnessed several birds landing on the empty bird bath in my back yard. Due to extra activity I had been remiss in keeping their watering hole, filled with water.
It was sadly comical to watch the birds reactions when they landed on the dry bird bath. Most would land on the edge, stop, lean forward and peer into the bowl for several seconds and then hop into the bowl and walk around slowly, usually dipping and coming up dry. A few then hopped back on the rim and continued to look in the bowl as though they thought the water would appear. After a moment, they would then fly away. It was impossible to know whether these were the regular birds that use this bird bath often, but judging from their reaction I think it is possible.

My husband and I receive a lot of enjoyment from watching these small winged creatures take their small sips of refreshment as they journey. But watching the birds reaction to an empty bird bath, caused me to think about keeping myself overflowing with God's word. It is easy to become busy with life's demands and forget to refill yourself with the water of God's word.
When I saw the birds and their expectation of finding water, the Lord reminded me, that there are people in our own lives who come and expect to find the living water of God in us.

Daily we have opportunity to share the water of life, through God's word and our actions. Let's be diligent to keep ourselves filled with the knowledge of God, so no one will leave us thirsty.

~Debbie

Colossians 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

John 4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

John 7:37, 38 In the last day, that great [day] of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

Ephesians 5:26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Our Hands

2011-03-14T17:40:00.000-05:00

Some things in life defy logic, which can cause me to throw up my hands. Have you ever thrown up your hands in disgust or aggravation? Our expressive hands can tell the world our immediate thoughts. With hands that declare, "I can not believe they did that!", "I give up!", "Are you kidding me?"
I must admit I have not always used my hands to say the nicest reply, so today, I am encouraging all of us to throw up our hands in a holy, wonder filled way, without wrath. Titus 1 warns us not to lift up our hands in an unworthy way. To be mindful, for we are speaking with our hands. Let us say something worthy.

~ Debbie

1 Titus 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.

Psalm 63:4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.

Unless otherwise attributed, all writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible.
Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Religion vs Reality

2011-03-07T11:39:00.001-06:00

Religion is evidenced as men's traditions versus the reality of the Living Word of God effecting a real verifiable change in you. Salvation should bring about a change in you and your behaviour. Salvation is not just a few words said to please others or our self.

Christ accomplished our salvation on the cross through His shed blood and His obedience to God.
Jesus submitted to His Father's will. Our acceptance of the shed blood of Jesus Christ should bring about our own obedience to God's word as well.
The seed of our new birth has been planted in us and manifests itself in the light of God's word working in and through us.
How can we know that the love of God is at work within us, unless there is the manifested fruit of a changed heart by word as well as deed?
We have need to be hearers of His word as well as doers of His word.
I am addressing the day in day out change that should be evidenced in our over all daily behaviour.

John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

Our walk with Christ should be evidenced by fruit, the evidence of a changed heart followed by our actions.

An example in nature.

As a seed grows, it expands out of its shell. In first grade my teacher had the class perform a science experiment to view a growth cycle.
We brought a seed from home, a bean seed. The seed was cocooned in a moist napkin until the shell was softened. Then we removed the seed and planted it in a small milk carton containing soil. Before it was planted we could see evidence of the new growth. There was a small green shoot emerging from the seed. Without moisture, no growth will happen. The Holy Spirit of God supplies the moisture needed for our growth through our application of God's word in our everyday life. The water of His word begins to soften our spiritual shell and prepares us for growth. As we apply ourselves to doing His word, we become rooted and grounded in our faith.
Do not allow the cares of this life to uproot you. As a new creation in Christ Jesus you need to receive the needed moisture and the life giving warmth from the Son through the study and application of God's written Word, the bible.

~Debbie

Galatians 5:22-24 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

Deuteronomy 30:6 And the LORD thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live.

John 15:5 I am the vine, ye [are] the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

All of John 5 and Galatians 5 for your consideration.

Galatians 5: 19-21 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are [these]; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told [you] in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

Unless otherwise attributed, all writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography,

copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved.
Would you like to see what I am currently painting?
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Proverbs 1

2011-03-01T06:35:00.007-06:00

I try to read proverbs daily. It is an easy way to read the Bible and gain wisdom. Today is the first day of March therefore I will read Proverbs 1. I read and as I read I receive a nudge of understanding. A moment of clarity regarding my own walk with God or a situation may be shown in a new light. I love Proverbs.
I like to study from the King James bible. The headers on Proverbs 1 have the verses broke down into 4 sections. A quick summary of the given information or a preview of the menu.
As I read and digest the food of God's word I can consider the meal set before me.

The first header for Proverbs 1:1-6 states
A Wise Man Will Hear.
Jesus said to take heed what we hear. So listening to the right thing is important. We need to guard our hearing. If I have time to chew on this precept/concept, it will lead me to thinking about what I hear, who I hear it from, and if I should be listening to them! Our minds and spirits become conditioned to the verbal atmosphere we surround ourselves with daily.
Proverbs 1:5 A wise [man] will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:
The word hear in this sentence means obey. This shows that we have a tendency to obey what we hear. So listen up! Be careful what you hear.

The Beginning of Knowledge
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge: [but] fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Verse 7 clearly says fools despise wisdom and instruction. I will not be a fool. I will study, hear, and obey God's word to me. Will you?

Walk Not in the Way of Sinners
Proverbs 1:10 My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.
Peer pressure at its worst! How often are we tempted to go along with the crowd around us. Be the voice of reason. Speak, someone is waiting to hear the obvious.

Proverbs 1:15 My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:
Lead by example.

Wisdom Cries in the Streets
Proverbs 1:20 Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets. In our everyday, day in day out life, in the market place and beyond, the wisdom of God cries for attention. There is a severe warning for all who ignore her. Wisdom will not be ignored. The fruit of her presence is manifested in those who take heed and obey.
Verse 31 warns
Proverbs 1:31 Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices.
We need Godly wisdom to live this life of ours successfully. This was a quick summation of my own study today. Sometimes I have the luxury of a leisurely meal at the table of God's word. Sometimes a snack. I am always fed and fueled for the next step in the journey. Do not try to accomplish your day on an empty stomach. The table is set and He has prepared a wonder filled meal for us.

Bon Appetit
~Debbie

Unless otherwise attributed, all writing, poetry, posts,art, and photography, copyright © 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved.
Would you like to see what I am currently painting?
Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Meek is not Weak

2011-02-07T22:08:00.002-06:00

There is an assumption that to be meek one must be weak. Not so! There is great strength in the ability to maintain your peace without becoming a doormat for others to tread upon. A studied balance is needed.
The need to take a stand without placing your foot in your mouth!

As you walk out your everyday life you will be challenged. You will be challenged to walk in meekness and yet retain your integrity, focus, strength and peace of mind. To walk steadfastly in an uneasy world.
Daily we face the foe of unrest. Whether the foe appears on the battlefield of our mind in inner struggle or presents itself as a situation or person who seeks to jab at our resolve to walk in peace. Life happens and with the best intention it is easy to become aggressive in our stance and reply.
There is a battle and you are a warrior.
So summon your warrior's heart as you approach this battle, but appear on the battlefield dressed properly.

Ephesians 6:10,11 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
You can find the list on garments in Ephesians 6:10-18.
Remember the goal of any enemy is to steal your peace, to change your mind, to convince you of your weakness. Yet if you have surrendered your heart to God, you have become a meek warrior. Not a weak warrior.

Matthew 11:29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

1 Peter 3:4 But [let it be] the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, [even the ornament] of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

God is well aware that it is hard as a human to cultivate a meek and quiet spirit. When I looked up the word spirit in 1 Peter 3:4, it referenced wind. The Vines dictionary stated it as " primarily denotes "the wind" (akin to pneo, "to breathe, blow"); also "breath;" then, especially "the spirit," which, like the wind, is invisible, immaterial and powerful.

So my understanding is this, a quiet spirit in practical application would be presented as a quiet wind. To speak with authority and quietly. When our emotions are stirred we tend to become loud and louder. Speaking louder as though this will cause us to be heard more efficiently. Therefore, tempers flare. Words ignite and the battle rages. In this case there is a need to be gentle or meek but never weak.
You are not to be a tea bag of slightly brewed strength spiritually.

But a strong cup of resolve presented in a gentle manner.
Fight the good fight of faith warrior for meek is not weak.
~Debbie

Unless otherwise attributed, all writing,poetry, posts,art,and photography, copyright
© 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved.
Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Just as I am

2011-01-31T10:56:00.006-06:00

Going Home © Debbie Turner Chavers

I was impressed this morning with the remembrance of a hymn that has always ministered to me since receiving Jesus Christ as my Saviour. The hymn is Just as I Am, Without One Plea.
As humans we tend to make the gospel message difficult, but the fact is, God wants you. He wants you just as you are. Sins and all. You see HE has made a provision for that. He has made a way for that. His son, Jesus Christ and His shed blood at Calvary. Come to Him just as you are. You will leave the old you at His cross and rise in Christ as a new creature. Click here for a simple salvation prayer to start your new life in Christ.

Isaiah 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

John 14:16 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Colossians 1:20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, [I say], whether [they be] things in earth, or things in heaven.

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Galations 6:15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.

~Debbie

Unless otherwise attributed, all writing,poetry, posts,art,and photography, copyright

© 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved.
Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Hymn

JUST AS I AM, WITHOUT ONE PLEA

Just as I am, without one plea,
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidst me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot,
To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind;
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need in Thee to find,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, Thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, Thy love unknown
Hath broken every barrier down;
Now, to be Thine, yea, Thine alone,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, of that free love
The breadth, length, depth, and height to prove,
Here for a season, then above,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!

~Charlotte Elliott

Miss Charlotte Elliott was visiting some friends in the West End of London, and there met the eminent minister, César Malan. While seated at supper, the minister said he hoped that she was a Christian. She took offense at this, and replied that she would rather not discuss that question. Dr. Malan said that he was sorry if had offended her, that he always liked to speak a word for his Master, and that he hoped that the young lady would some day become a worker for Christ. When they met again at the home of a mutual friend, three weeks later, Miss Elliott told the minister that ever since he had spoken to her she had been trying to find her Saviour, and that she now wished him to tell her how to come to Christ. “Just come to him as you are,” Dr. Malan said. This she did, and went away rejoicing. Shortly afterward she wrote this hymn.

Charlotte Elliot wrote this song about how to find salvation through Christ. It has been used by many as the call to the altar at the close of services, as it brings a quiet simple message of sin, forgiveness, and salvation to all that turn from sin and trust in Jesus.
Quoted from http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/j/u/justasam.htm

To Persevere

2011-01-07T08:23:00.001-06:00

This is the beginning of a new year and my encouragement for you is to persevere. We have each been allotted a specific time here on this earth to accomplish our calling in Christ Jesus. Not all call Jesus, Lord, but each person has been gifted by God with a specific purpose. Our first purpose is to worship God and then to serve Him and each other with His gifting in and through us.

Persevere- to persist in anything undertaken; maintain a purpose in spite of difficulty, obstacles, or discouragement; continue steadfastly.

What is important to you? What are you doing about it?
Pray and ask God to help you discern what you need to persevere at during your time here on earth. Now do it and keep doing it until God tells you to stop.

I am reprinting a newsletter that I received from the Starfish Foster Home from Amanda de Lange. Visit the website, marvel at the miracle of love and care that God bestows through willing hands and hearts and the difference that it makes.
I highlighted the text about perseverance in Amanda's newsletter below. Obviously, it is difficult to raise a child and this is a home for many children.
I love the banner for Starfish that states "For this child, I will make a difference."

You can make a difference. The difference you make while on this earth at times will be obvious, but truly the eternal difference will only be seen when this life is over.
Persevere.
Do what you can and do it well. I know you can.

~Debbie

1 Timothy 4:15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. NIV
1 Timothy 4:15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.
KJV

Unless otherwise attributed, all writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright

© 2011 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved.
Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Article below is reprinted with permission from Amanda.

End of Year Letter, 2010
On September 13th, 2010 we celebrated 5 years of Starfish. I think of it as one of the greatest tutorials of my life. There is no way to fully explain the things I have learned and the adversity I have overcome and the life lessons that are being taught every day. It is an experience like no other I have ever had. The unbridled joy, the pain personified heartache, the overwhelming gratitude, the intense hard work and unrelenting stress. For the first time I understood this year why it is so. I asked my assistant to count the time the babies have been at Starfish and then to add it all up and would you believe it came to 125 YEARS and some months. So at Starfish every day is like five days other wise. Now I get why it is so hard to do. You have to be incredibly strong and very focused on your mission. You have to be flexible and able to adapt really fast and with a minimum amount of complaint. At the same time to have a very clear vision of where you are going and what needs to be done to get there. You cannot be swayed by any opinions and unsolicited advice. About this aspect I can write books because there are so many people who have something to say, without knowing much of anything that happens at Starfish. Your decisions need to be swift and right and so I pray for guidance all the time.
Recently, I read about three women and the money that they spent on their unsuccessful political campaigns in the US. It turned out to be US$217 million. What an incredible waste! I found out too, that Obama raised US$500 million through microphilantropy, where many people gave small amounts and he spent it all on becoming the president of the US. When I looked at that amount my heart wept because I thought about the 143 million orphans that are estimated to be in the world and like winning the lottery, I thought of what I would do with that money to help those kids be adopted and to get surgeries. I thought of the adoption funds that I would create to allow the families a donation to allow them to defray the enormous cost of adopting. I would have enough money to continue helping like this for years. Reverend Billy Graham once said: "Show me your check book (credit card etc) and I will show you were your heart is."
I watched the movie Schindler's List many years ago. There were so many lessons from that movie, but one that stayed with me. Oscar Schindler who was by all accounts a womanizer, a gambler, an alcoholic and a member of the Nazi Party, but in those golden years he saved more than 1 200 Jewish people's lives, in giving everything he owned, even his wife's jewelry to help them. After that time, he was not to be successful again at anything and he faded into oblivion except to the people whom he saved and who never forgot him. He requested to be buried in Jerusalem because according to him: My children are there. The lesson to me was, you do not have to perfect to be able to do good deeds. If we waited for the perfect people to turn up, there would be no-one to do the work. So for me, in spite of my foibles, I get to save babies lives and in my own way I am writing my Amanda's List with each baby that comes to Starfish and some who do not. I might sound egotistical but true none the less.
I am so grateful for the chance that I have to be able to help the babies when they are so medically fragile such a critical stage of their lives. I am so grateful for the love that is poured out on them by the nannies and the volunteers. I love being the keeper of their hearts at such an important time and to teach the what it means to be loved and how they are to love back.
I am so grateful for all the donations that we receive and for the ability that it gives me to help a child in desperate need. We have had 124 babies at Starfish and they are all little teachers. I am so grateful for the lessons they have taught me and for the change they have brought into my life. I am grateful for the 52 families who have received our children and for offering them something that we could not do for them at Starfish, a family of their very own. There are more families going to have the blessings of having a Starfish baby in the future. This year we did a phenomenal 28 adoptions. More than the four previous years combined!
I am also so grateful to the volunteers who come to Starfish from far and wide and around the corner here in Xian, to offer up their time, talents and their love to the babies. Thank you for your service on behalf of the children. It really is a team effort which has such excellent results.

I am also so grateful for all the medical help we receive from skilled surgeons and medical staff, who with their training heal so many children. I cannot express my gratitude enough for what they do. We did 53 surgeries this year. Think of all the lives that have been impacted by that.
It has been the greatest honor of my life to be entrusted with the lives of these children . I love hearing how well the babies are doing and I love writing about what our adventures at Starfish.
My heart and my thoughts also go to the children who never got the chance to know the love of a family, the children who we were not able to heal. It is hard to accept that not everyone can be helped, in spite of your best efforts. These lessons of life are some of the hardest to learn and come to terms with. May I never forget them.

Thank you for your love and support of Starfish. We thank you for your generosity and concern for children you might never meet.

Life, love and laughter,
Amanda

At Starfish, we have taken care of 124 children to date, arranged more than 100 surgeries and had 51 international adoptions, so our little starfishes live all over the globe: the US, Netherlands, Norway, France, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Canada and in China. Our latest adoptions are to Washington State and New Mexico, Georgia and to Southern California. We currently have 45 babies under the age of 3 and three foster homes. Preparing to move to our new "castle" hopefully before the end of the year.

Starfish Children's Services
US Tax Number: 20-4682916
Xian China

http://www.thestarfishfosterhome.org/
http://chinesestarfish.blogspot.com/
http://chinesestarfishcleft.blogspot.com/
Email: throwingstarfish0913@gmail.com
Cell: 86.1348.812.4847

Words Revolving

2010-12-29T13:22:00.015-06:00

My new birth, birthday is January 1st of each new year. As I enter into a new year I contemplate the hope that most of us feel with a new beginning. Diets, new resolutions, new beginnings are on most of our minds. So with that in mind I want to encourage you to find a verse that will help you stay focused on a positive move forward in your own everyday life.

Prayerfully consider God's word which is His promises to each of us and write out one or more that ministers to you and your needs. I have written mine down on a banner and will refer to it throughout the coming year to remind myself of my focus.

I looked up the scriptures below and was fascinated with the meaning of the word fitly. The context meant to revolve like a wheel. A word that is revolving or repeating in a circle, like a wheel.
So I will take the word fitly spoken, my chosen verses and repeat them to myself and over my life and choices regularly.

Maybe you have an area of weakness. Your verse might be, Philippians 4:13, that says "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
Are you fearful? Lack boldness? Then your verse might be, 2 Timothy 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

God's word is powerful, use it. Through reading and proclaiming His Word, you can allow it to enable and empower you, to overcome your own perceived real and imagined limitations.

The voice you give the most credence to is your own. Speak well of yourself. Give yourself to God and see what He will make of you. A new creature. You can start over. He loves you.

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Get in agreement with Him. He loves you and wants to do you good and work all things out for your good, all the days of your life.

Start the New Year off new. If you have never asked Jesus to live in your heart and be your Lord and Saviour, I am asking you to do so now. Have you walked away from Him? Have your choices led you astray? Turn now, revolve, repent. Do not just be a hearer of the Word, but be a doer of the Word.
He is waiting. With open arms, He is waiting.

Click on this link ABC-A Simple Salvation Prayer for an easy prayer to receive Jesus as your Saviour.

Proverbs 25:11 A word fitly spoken [is like] apples of gold in pictures of silver.

Proverbs 15:23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word [spoken] in due season, how good [is it]!

~Debbie

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers
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Pet portrait commission

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To Bleat or Not to Bleat? That is the question.

2010-12-08T10:58:00.000-06:00

Life has a way of giving you many opportunities to speak your mind. I have often heard people say, " Well, I am going to give them a piece of my mind".
You do not want to do that.
Keep it.
You will need it!

When you perceive a wrong done. The perception or the actual wrong done will apply pressure and things under pressure usually boil. It is helpful to not simmer with an issue too long. Because a simmering pot, when pressure is applied.... will boil. Sometimes the pot boils over.
MESSY!

I do not want a messy life or a missing mind. So this sheep is studying the question " To bleat or not to bleat"?

Question for the mindful. Will your bleat make a difference? Will it improve your life or anothers life?
Sometimes it is needful to speak up and sometimes we just need to be silent.
Carefully consider the need and the response.
To bleat or not to bleat? You decide.

Baah!
Debbie

Ecclesiastes 3:7
A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers
Would you like to see what I am currently painting?
Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Sheep

2010-11-19T10:25:00.004-06:00

Recently, I heard an amazing fact about sheep. Sheep hang together and are led as a group. But sometimes a lamb tends to wander off alone by itself and will not follow the shepherd. When this happens the shepherd will break the lambs legs and carry it around his neck as it heals. The lamb becomes so accustomed to being right by the shepherd that when it heals it no longer wanders. Many times I have seen art work where it shows the Good Shepherd with a lamb around his neck and I thought how sweet that he was carrying the lamb. I did not understand the root cause of the shepherds actions. A rebellious lamb.

John 10: 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
John 10: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any [man] pluck them out of my hand.
John 10: 29 My Father, which gave [them] me, is greater than all; and no [man] is able to pluck [them] out of my Father's hand.

Jesus stated that if we hear His voice and follow Him, that no one is able to pluck us out of His hand.
So if you have been broken by life or experience. Allow the Good Shepherd to carry you.
However you have come to brokenness, know that God desires your complete healing.
Hebrews 13:5-8 He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. You can walk away, but He will never leave or forsake His own. He changeth not.
But if you give God your heart. You will heal and you will change.

Original watercolor painting "Cold, Stony Heart" © Debbie Turner Chavers

~Debbie

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers
Would you like to see what I am currently painting?
Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Seed-Life Field

2010-11-14T07:43:00.001-06:00

“Anyone can count the seeds in an apple, but only God can count the number of apples in a seed. ~Robert H. Schuller

Matthew 13:31 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:
Matthew 13:32 Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.

For the last couple of months my attention has been brought repeatedly to seeds and the productive power within them. Seeds in themselves are not very note worthy in appearance, but their potential is amazing. Our actions and words are seeds.
Most actions or words go unnoticed to the untrained ear and eye. Yet each action and each word has great power for good or destruction.
In our daily lives it can be easy to ignore the seed of our life's plantings. The actions, the words that are planted in our life field and the life field of others.
Do not dismiss the power of your actions and reactions. Life is a field that is being planted second by second. You have great potential within you. I have great potential within me. We are seeds.
Leave and live this life having grown into the tree of righteousness that God intended you to be.

~Debbie

Isaiah 61:3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers
Would you like to see what I am currently painting?
Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Prayer of Blessing

2010-10-28T17:29:00.008-05:00

Recently, I wrote and sent a blessing to all of my children. It is written as a poem of blessing. My children are grown but whether they are near are far from me, I bless them. Your blessing is important to your children.
Throughout scripture, the blessing of a parent was coveted. Some of you no longer have parents that are alive. Some of you have parents who do not realize the blessing of a spoken blessing and so do not bestow it upon you. So TODAY I want to bless you and I ask that you bless your children. Because you can.

Today

Today
I pray you receive joy to live this day to its fullest.
That you allow God to fill your empty places.
That you will feel His presence in a fresh way that draws you ever nearer to His peace.

Today
That you KNOW that you are loved, just because
And because you literally are a gift from God, I delight in watching you unfold day by day and the revealing of His beauty in you.

I love each of you.
Momma

Acts 3:26 Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers
Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com/ or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Your Hired

2010-10-15T08:01:00.008-05:00

Did you know that you can become a new creation in Christ Jesus? That the old things can disappear and that God will do a new thing in you?
Do you drag through each day hoping that things will get better? Are you waiting on someone else to fix your attitude, your family, your job, your life?

Well, the change starts with you. Yes, you. This should be a word of encouragement to you.

The only thing we can attempt to change is our self through submitting to God's good word for us. You have everything you need to get started.
And yes, you are the right person for the job. I am excited for you.
Today is a new day with infinite possibility and you have been gifted with this irreplaceable day and your irreplaceable life.
Do not be discouraged. God has a good plan for you, to do you good and prosper you. Get in agreement with Him.
God knew you before you were born, before you were created.
So what are you waiting on? You are not hidden from God's care or eyes. Ask Him today, to help you do what you can. It is not easy to change but with God's help, I know you can.

~Debbie

Prayer: God give me your wisdom to do what I can, to effectively change my life for the better. Give me strength and wisdom to accomplish the goals and plans that you have ordained for my life.

In Jesus name I pray
Amen

Psalm 139:13-17
For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully [and] wonderfully made: marvellous [are] thy works; and [that] my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, [and] curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all [my members] were written, [which] in continuance were fashioned, when [as yet there was] none of them. How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!

2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Would you like to see what I am currently painting?
Click on these links http://artparables.com/or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Sit

2010-09-16T09:43:00.009-05:00

Are you looking in the rear view mirror of life? If you drive through life looking in the rear view mirror instead of the road ahead, it is hard not to wreck.
Looking backwards, it is hard, if not impossible to see the path ahead.
Unless, you are backing up, or turning around in an area of your life.

Focus.
Eyes on the road.

Yesterday, I was reminded to stay seated, in peace, eyes forward, on the path ahead.
Not to keep checking the rear view mirror of life.
In other words, to not dwell on past fears or failures.
Stay seated in Christ Jesus.

I do not drive or walk this path alone. He is with me.
I will be painting His reminder to me. In the meantime, I will share a picture of the little chair that is now hanging from my rear view mirror.
This little chair is a reminder to Trust God, the one who has the road map for my life and yours.
~Debbie

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Ephesians 2:6 And hath raised [us] up together, and made [us] sit together in heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus

Philippians 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

Would you like to see what I am currently painting?Click on these links http://artparables.com/or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Breathe Deeply

2010-08-31T10:00:00.012-05:00

There is an automatic relaxation response when you breathe deeply.

While working this morning I saw a picture of the ocean and involuntarily took a deep breath and felt a flood of peacefulness pass across me.
Relax my mind tells me.
I comply by focusing momentarily on the moment. Literally taking a moment, to take in the moment.

I have on purpose placed an object, a color, or a sound in my immediate atmosphere to cause me to focus on a positive, deep breath.
To use these things to refocus my attention on the positive.
My goal is to be mindful. To walk in peace, to relax.

God's written word, the Bible has a similar effect on me. So I take time to rest in His word.
Inwardly I breath in His breathe, His peace which passes understanding. Allowing His Spirit to renew my mind in His word.
As I focus on His written Word, I breath deeply, feeling the cares of the moment slipping a way, until His way has pre-eminence in me.

There are many ways to cause the Relax response. It is different for each of us.
I want to encourage you to pay attention to those things which cause you to take a deep breath.

Learn to recognize your Relax response.
To breathe in the moment and rest.

~Debbie

Philippians 4:7
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 4:23

And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

Psalm 33:6
By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.

Isaiah 9:6
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Would you like to see what I am currently painting?

Click on these links http://artparables.com/or http://debbieturnerchavers.com/

Wanted

2010-08-27T12:57:00.007-05:00

What is more lovely than being wanted? Humans as a whole seek to belong, to be wanted.

I believe that one of the most beautiful things about God is that He wants you.

He wants me. He wants to be our God as well as our friend.

When everyone else turns away, or just walks away.

There He is.

Can you see Him? Throughout history God has reached out to us by His Spirit and with written love letters called the Bible. He sent His Son to tell us in person. See Him.

See Him standing with the woman caught in adultery in John 8.

See Him stopping to speak to Zacchaeus, in Luke 19.

Throughout the book of Hosea you see the redeeming love of God toward man.

The parables of Christ point repeatedly to searching and finding, from the lost coin, to the lost sheep. God is ever seeking you. He created you for Himself.

HE LOVES YOU.

He wants YOU.

~Debbie

John 8:11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.

Luke 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

The Starfish Foster Home needs HELP

2010-08-24T09:25:00.004-05:00

Today, I would like to draw your attention to your ability to help. I am asking you to help the babies of the Starfish home. Prayerfully consider what you, your business, your church, or group can do to help Amanda and the Starfish babies. Thank you for caring and sharing what you can.

To help a child is always a good thing,
Debbie

I have copied Amanda's blog entry below for your consideration. You can find out more about the babies and what Amanda and her staff are doing by clicking on the links.

Looking For Skilled Volunteers
After being in the same place for five years STARFISH has to move. We have found a house which is really suitable for us, but needs some major work and we found out yesterday that we will be able to move in there, but before that happens we have to renovate. In order to do that, I will need some major help. Do you perhaps know a plumber, electrician, handyman experienced do-it-yourselfer that will be willing to come to China for a month or two and come and help us get this new place ready for the babies?
Time is of the essence and I will need someone as soon as possible. Nothing like having a plan and giving you a long lead time. As one of my favorite adages teaches: IF IT WAS NOT FOR THE LAST MINUTE NOTHING WOULD GET DONE!
For all the people in China, do you perhaps know if any companies that do construction and decoration that would like to make a donation in China to Starfish, please put us in touch. We could even use samples of household products and appliances, and we are going to need air conditioners for sure. If you can think of anything that could be useful to us, I would like to know.

Life, love and laughter,
Amanda
Starfish Children's Services
US Tax Number: 20-4682916
Xian China

At Starfish, we have taken care of 118 children to date, arranged more than 100 surgeries and had 38 international adoptions, so our little starfishes live all over the globe: the US, Netherlands, Norway, France, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Canada and in China. Our latest adoptions took place recently and now we have a fifth baby in Holland and our first baby in Washington State. We have also added another baby to our count in Holland. We currently have 51 babies under the age of 3 and three foster homes. We have fifteen babies matched and we are waiting for their families to come and get them.
www.thestarfishfosterhome.org
http://chinesestarfish.blogspot.com
http://chinesestarfishcleft.blogspot.com
Email: throwingstarfish0913@gmail.com
Cell: 86.1348.812.4847

A Sign of Encouragement

2010-07-30T06:40:00.020-05:00

Recently, I saw a sign of encouragement. One that was particularly special to me.
While driving, I thought of a recent discouragement and mulled over what to do and made a quick decision to believe the best about it and to move forward.

On paper this sounds so cut and dried, but inwardly it was a struggle to give up my hurt feelings and to forgive. Yet, this is what is required to move forward and leave all results in God's able hands. Within a second of deciding, God slid a red car in front of me within inches of my bumper. I laughed.
There right in front of me was FEAR NOT~ Isaiah 41:10
A sign.. A bumper sticker.

Isaiah 41:10
Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

We are surrounded by reminders to look up. To not give up. In God's goodness and mercy He is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
Pay attention,you will probably notice a note just for you, just when you need it.
Looking for the positive is a trained response. One that you teach yourself as you live out your daily life. It will become easier, as you train yourself to look for God in your everyday life.
There are 3D pictures that look jumbled and only by training your eyes to look for the enclosed image can you see it. An image within the image.
I want to encourage you to look around you in your 3D life for the small reminders that you are not forsaken, that you are not forgotten.
That the God of the universe has printed YOU on the palms of His hand. How amazing is that!

Train your eyes to see the picture within the picture. You and your life in the eternal plan of God.

And right now, my note to you is a virtual bumper sticker that is reminding you that God loves you. That as His child, the tears that you shed are held in a bottle. That nothing befalls you in mind, body, or spirit that He does not see. Look for it. His notes of encouragement in your everyday life.

~Debbie

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Isaiah 49:16
Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of [my] hands; thy walls [are] continually before me.

Psalm 56:8Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: [are they] not in thy book?

Proverbs 18:24
A man [that hath] friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend [that] sticketh closer than a brother.

The Safety Pin

2010-07-15T10:53:00.009-05:00

At times, small issues can seem enormous. Life and other people can seem petty.
When this occurs, an adjustment of attitude, some sort of mental hug is in order.

My first inclination during dry spells is to retreat. To spend time alone, or with my husband.
Avoiding contact with others, until I can see the positive in people once again with God's help.
But last week God had a different plan and did not wait long to share it with me by allowing my button to fall off my pants!

This was one of those times in life when my glass was not half empty or half full.
IT WAS JUST EMPTY!!

I needed encouragement, a mental hug. A renewal.
My hug came through the gift of a safety pin.

After a hectic start on my first full day of vacation, the last thing I needed was a button to fall off my pants! Or so I thought.
This small aggravation left me exposed in my clothing choice and in attitude.
After packing for vacation what would have sufficed for almost any occasion, I still lacked a sewing kit or a safety pin.
What to do now?

My answer came as I approached the sink in the store bathroom to wash my hands.
As I came near the sink, I heard and saw a woman muttering and fussing to no one in general. She stood at the sink watching me in the mirror as I approached.
Noticing that I was still being watched, I explained briefly, that my button had fallen off as I stooped to retrieve it from the floor. She said nothing in return.

Momentarily, I paused to smile at her and turned to leave when I heard her mutter something in my direction.
"Here" she said abruptly, as she extended her hand toward me.
She was offering me a bent safety pin which had seen better days.

It was a small, silver, safety pin.
Yet it appeared jewel like, extended in the hand of a stranger. Just what I needed.
She appeared embarrassed by her offer of help and awkwardly returned my joyful hug as I thanked her.
She smiled and gave me a firm hug back..... no longer muttering.

I had a great vacation with many blessings but the gift of the safety pin is definitely a memory I will treasure.
The act of kindness to a stranger from a stranger helped restore more than my gaping waistband, it helped pin back together my bruised desire to be an encouragement and help others.
From the smallest gift, we can encourage one another to press on. Do not doubt your ability or your gifts to make a difference today.

Being held together by His Love,
~Debbie

Hebrews 13:2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

2 Thessalonians 3:13 But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.

News Update

2010-07-12T07:39:00.014-05:00

Recently, June 29, 2010, CTN's television show Bridges with Monica Schmelter, blessed me by re airing my initial interview/introduction of my Art Parables, Visions of His Word™ .

Russel Mobley, http://russelmobley.com/ , editor of MTA's online magazine has featured my work in a Featured Artist page. This can be viewed at the following link http://www.middletennesseearts.com/artists.htm

JoZoara's in Murfreesboro has gave me the opportunity to show my work in their business for several months. This business is a supporter of local artists and is a great gathering place for a cup of coffee, lunch, or a snack. The atmosphere is laid back and the walls are filled with the creative endeavors of many artists. Visit JoZoara's for a feast, for your tummy or your eyes!

Currently, there are paintings at Cannonsburgh in Murfreesboro and TAL in downtown, Nashville.

If you would like to join my new monthly art challenge you can find the details at http://aparkview.blogspot.com/

This summer has been busy! I will have work displayed at Linebaugh's Public Library, the Center for the Arts, and the Greenway Art Festival in Murfreesboro, Tennessee with water color artist Angie McLain in about 6 weeks.

Before Christmas, I hope to have my poetry journal "Letting Go of Cockatoo Dreams" available for sale. My daughters and I are also working on several children's books. Will update when they are finished and ready for sale.

I appreciate the generous opportunity that others have shared with me, to share my work through my art or my writing. Many thanks to each of you.

Numbers 6:24-26
The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. In Jesus name

~Debbie

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

On Purpose

2010-06-28T21:40:00.012-05:00

With purpose of heart
Today
I will say good-bye before I say hello
To that which will bring death

With purpose of heart
I will choose your way O God, not mine
As I take each breath
In hope
Of a life lived with love to spare
For all
Because you first loved me

With purpose of heart
I choose to live out your purpose in me.
Even when
Life seems without purpose.

Each of us must face our own moments of decision. Where our choices make or break us.

The poem above is part of my poetry journal "Letting Go of Cockatoo Dreams"

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Act 11:23
Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.

Job Description-Servant

2010-06-15T09:30:00.008-05:00

During a brief visit with someone yesterday, I was asked what I do daily with my time.
My job?
This is an uncomfortable question, because there is no general descriptive term for what I consider my job to be, other than Servant.
Some how, with all the hoopla of awards, recognitions, and the "worlds" pat on the back.
The title Servant does not seem so grand.
For what I do on a daily basis is service/serving others.
It is probably what most of us do. Serve. You may have a fancy title attached to your service.
I do not. Unless, wife,mom, friend, cook, landscaper, nurse, etc...is a fancy title.
So I guess my official work title is "Servant".
Or I could adopt the title of "Doer".
Daily I apply myself to those things which need to be done.
The everyday, day in day out needs of a family and home. The large and small things that make life easier for those in my circle of care. Some days this circle shrinks and some days it is popping through my orderly seams!

My job is to serve others in my circle of care by making life easier, more orderly, and prayerfully a better day for those in and around my sphere of influence. And when life slows down, I grab a pen "Writer"or paintbrush "Painter" and share what I am learning with others.

As with any job, I am more successful on some days than others. This servant thing is hard.
Yet, to live life only for one's self is harder still.
Regardless, of our job titles, job one is to serve, just as Christ served.

After, study of God's word, I think Servant, is a pretty grand title.

~Debbie

Matthew 20:26-28
But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

Mark 9:35
And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, [the same] shall be last of all, and servant of all.

The Pointy Accusation

2010-06-04T06:10:00.008-05:00

Two forward and three back. Sounds like a game of checkers.
Yet, this is a game that has no winners.
The heart that points a finger has three pointed back at its self.
In checkers you make points by taking the other players chips off the table one by one.
But in real life, relationships are not a game of checkers.
And what you take from your supposed opponent is more than a chip.
It can be the beginning of the end of a relationship.

Relationships are built by adding one chip on top of another to build a base for a solid foundation of trust and empathy.
As individuals it is easy to only point out the wrong of another in a relationship.
To feel justified for a wrong done.
Even when the accusation is true, there are no winners unless the opponent realizes the fault and changes accordingly.
So when pointing a finger at someone else...look down and see the three pointed back at you from your own hand.
This will help you remember to be kind as you point and realize that the chips are stacked on mercies side.

James 2:10
For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one [point], he is guilty of all.

Luke 6:42
Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye.

~Debbie

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Reciprocal

2010-05-20T06:34:00.008-05:00

A reciprocal : shared, felt, or shown by both sides,: serving to reciprocate : consisting of or functioning as a return in kind

We all go through changes, some better, some worse and yet changes must come about for growth. Growth in our understanding and in our relationships with one another.
I am learning many things and one of them is how to ask for and receive a reciprocal.

A reciprocal in life or business is a like exchange for rendered service.
I find it hard to ask others for assistance, yet feel perfectly comfortable giving assistance to others.
Upon contemplation I found this to be odd.
Upon study, I realize that this reluctance can be based from fear of rejection and in some cases a form of pride.
So I am studying the Abraham covenant of a reciprocal.

Genesis 12:2
And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
Genesis 12:3
And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.

A Holy Reciprocal.
If it is your habit to be a giver/ nurturer by nature, then receiving something in return will probably be odd at first.
To give and expect something in return.
Yet, this is scriptural.

Example:
For God gave and wants you in return.

John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Remember the choices you make today are affecting your future.
I am told in God's word that you reap what you sow.
So, I now expect a reciprocal. Not a payment in kind, yet to be blessed in return for my blessing.
An Abraham type of blessing.

Luke 6:38
Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.
For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

You do not plant beans and expect to harvest apples from that field.
A reciprocal, something of like value. Ask and receive.
To give and receive nothing in return is not scriptural.

~Debbie
© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

In Isolation

2010-05-07T07:42:00.008-05:00

We are isolated to some degree from the needs of others. All around the world there are disasters in many places and yet it is a time of opportunity. The opportunity to share the love of God with others.
As we prayerful look around, we will see needs that we can meet.
At times, it all seems to be over-whelming.

Yet, we must reach out. Jesus said, that we would have the poor always.
Poor means lack.
It is not just a lack of resources but a poorness of spirit. We are equipped to help meet needs. Even if you lack funds.
You have something to share.
A smile, a word of encouragement, an acknowledgement that although you are not the answer, you can share The Way to have every need met in Christ Jesus.

I want to encourage you today to do something today. Help meet a need. You are able.

~Debbie

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Philippians 4:19
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Matthew 26:11
For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.

Half-Hearted

2010-04-29T06:18:00.007-05:00

Do you find yourself dragging through your life? It is important emotionally to commit to walking out your days not only in a spirit of love but with your whole heart. There is a tendency to give just enough to say you have done what is required. This might work with people for a while, but God knows the difference.
It is not enough to just go through the motions in life.
Commitment and action is required.

Every area of life shows forth the proof of what is truly important to you. From your personal relationships to your work ethic. Most people will give heed where the money hits their understanding, but many relationships are left to flounder because of a willful lack of effort.
Half-hearted.
Today I am encouraging you to prayerfully consider the different areas of your life.
To take a fine tooth comb to the knots in your relationships. To work through the areas from within and without that so easily entangle us and hinder our progress to walking in love with one another.

~Debbie
© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

You can read more about the heart at The Love of Money my art parable painting.

Mark 12:33
And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love [his] neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.

Neutral

2010-04-20T06:42:00.019-05:00

Life can have you running at a high rpm. So when life is coming at you hard and fast, do not forget that little gear called Neutral.
Shifting life's demands can require a steady hand, a close eye on the road, and regular fill-ups.
Neutral in my life is spending time with God through prayer and the reading of His word.
But even with regular maintenance, the issues of life still shift me into high gear at times. Sometimes the frenetic pace seems a bit exciting, but an all out run for your money, can also drain your last bit of energy for the road ahead.
So.
Back to Neutral...literally.
This point was driven home recently by the need to drive someone else's car and my inability to shift from Park to Reverse. The car had a stick shift that refused to go into gear while the engine was running.
No amount of self-effort would move it.
So I sat there, becoming more aggravated by the moment.
All my effort still left me in Park. When I turned off the engine and applied the brake, I could easily move the gear into Reverse.
Alright, so the gears work!
Yet, as soon as I turned the engine on, the gears would lock.
Not moving.
I called for help.
My help, came from my husband, who said, " Put the car in Neutral with the brake engaged, turn on the engine and move the gear into reverse. "
Wow! it worked.
A simple gear change.
If you find yourself not going forward and not going backwards. A shift in gears in needed.
Neutral.

~Debbie
© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

There Is a Time

2010-04-07T11:42:00.013-05:00

There is a time when your prayers seem unanswered.
A time where life is a wall of obstacles with no apparent foot holds.
Where dreams have shattered and only fragments remain.

There is a time when your prayers are answered without reason
or rhyme.
A time where hope springs anew and shadows depart from you.
Where with clasped hands in submission or hands lifted high with praise.

NOTHING stays the same.
This too will pass and only God and His word remains.
The same yesterday, and today, and forever.

There is a time...

~Debbie

From my poetry journal "Letting Go of Cockatoo Dreams"
© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.

Ecclesiastes 3:4
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance

Tap Root

2010-03-26T08:03:00.027-05:00

Behold the Man, The Word Became Flesh
© 2005 Debbie Turner Chavers

Well, it is that time again. Spring has sprung. Time to tend to the weeds in the garden. Weeding is something that I do not necessarily look forward to, although I love the appearance of the garden after the removal of weeds.

There are so many spiritual lessons to be learned from the Lord of the harvest as you tend to a garden.
I try to weed in intervals due to the physical exertion required. I have found that weeding spiritually has exertion involved also. Due diligence is required to take care of the little foxes that spoil our vines spiritually.
Weeding is always easier after a rainfall. Spiritually, it is easier to see our own weeds as the rain of God's word and Spirit have drenched us and opened our eyes to His truth.
The ground and our hearts become pliable and yield to the effort to remove offensive weeds.

As I tended to the weeding in the garden, I noticed a new weed this week. The weed was quite attractive in appearance. It was similar in appearance to lambs ear. An invasive plant.
All the weeds up to this point had been pliable and easy to remove with the roots lifting out easily. When I tried to pull this new weed from the bed it had a long tap root. This tap root required a small shovel to remove its hold in the garden.
Because this particular plant had a tap root, I will have to be diligent to watch for its renewal.
Although it appeared attractive, it was an invasive weed.
Some things in our own lives have tap roots and require the shovel of God's spoken Word and the power of His Holy Spirit to remove. We must be diligent to examine the garden of our heart and weed out those things which will invade and attempt to take over the garden of our heart.
We are a garden unto the Lord and He has planted peace, love, joy, goodness in His garden. These are some of the seeds that God's love has planted in us.

The Easter season is upon us. My encouragement today is that we all will pray for and allow God through His son Jesus Christ to create in us a clean and weed free heart and renew a right spirit within us.

~Debbie

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Psalm 51:10
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Ephesians 3:17That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

Song of Songs 2:15
Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines [have] tender grapes.

Isaiah 58:11And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.

Provocation

2010-03-15T09:40:00.012-05:00

I have been considering how I act on a daily basis. Do I provoke others in a positive or a negative way? God's word tells me to provoke others unto love and good works. If I do not make a conscious effort, this will not necessarily be my plan of action.
It is easy to follow instead of lead.
To fall into line with complaining and complacency. Not a proper path if we want to obey God's word.
Without a decision on our part, you and I will float along participating in the status quo.
I have made a quality decision to focus on the positive. Yes, I know there is plenty of negative stuff all around. So I can either wallow in the mire or take a bath in God's good word and clean up my perspective and the area around me.
There is almost a spoiled delight in complaining. Yet, if I look around while wallowing in this mire, I will recognize that my mental mud has a way of splattering those around me.
Without much thought at all, I can be provoked into thinking I have an excuse to complain. Whether by a peevish attitude or a general dissatisfied demeanor I can affect those around me. So can you.
So today I want to provoke us both to take the lead. Obey God's word and provoke those around us unto love and good works.
You and I have tremendous potential to have a wonderful, positive effect on others during our life time.
Do not dismiss the power of one.
Be the one who provokes others unto love and good works.

~Debbie

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Hebrews 10:24
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

John 15:3
Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.

A Stranger

2010-03-01T20:49:00.008-06:00

I have been granted a fine time of getting to know an assortment of new people. Everyone comes from somewhere but most of the people I have been meeting have moved to my area in the last year from other states.
At times even with a new job, new church,new school , even extracurricular activities it can be hard to make a new friend. Once the day or activity is over you have spent time but not found the one on one fellowship that helps you overcome the newness of a move.
Maybe you have lived in the same place forever. You know most of the locals and you know just where to go when something is needed. Well, because of this bouquet of strangers I have been given the opportunity to extend a smile and a welcome and sometimes a shared meal.
This has been a privilege, but unusual to my everyday way of life for the past couple of years.
As this influx of strangers kept being put in my path, I began to think about it.

Upon contemplation, the scripture in Matthew 25:35 was brought to my attention in an entirely new way. The scripture states, I was a stranger and ye took me in.
Well, to be honest that has always kind of freaked me out. You know taking in the stranger. From a small child I was warned not to pick up hitch-hikers. Do not accept candy from strangers. And the list went on. Stranger Danger!
I repeated these same warnings to my children. So how could I reconcile my fear with the scripture admonition of Jesus Christ, with my parents warnings ringing in my ears?
Well, God meets you where you are at, even if it is out of town!
He showed me that I was being allowed to take in a stranger by offering friendship and fellowship to those who were put in my path.
I am being allowed to participate at my own comfort level..via friendship to fulfill the scripture admonition. I was a stranger and you took me in. I took them in by including them in my circle of care.
Read over the scriptures below and see how God grants you the ability to live out these scriptures.

~Debbie

Matthew 25:35
For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

Matthew 25:36
Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

Prayer

2010-02-27T19:10:00.002-06:00

This seems kind of odd to me, but I am asking you for encouragement today.
No need for details, but the encouragement I need is the prayers of God's children
in my time of need.
Please do not ask why, for I am not at liberty to share, but please pray.

~Debbie

Weed or Flower?

2010-02-09T11:40:00.016-06:00

A short story.
When my oldest daughter was a little girl she presented an older family member with a freshly picked flower from the yard. I do not remember what the flower was, but the person who received the gift saw it as a weed, not as a flower.
He considered all flowers that were not of the genius that he cultivated to be weeds. He worked in horticulture and propagated new flowers. He had mastered flower knowledge yet was in the infant stage of sensitivity. He failed to see the bud of sharing that was growing in my young daughters heart.

"That is not a flower, that is a weed" he said, as she presented her gift. " I do not want it, take it out of the house."
Her child like response was " But I picked it for you".

Needless to say. I was not pleased and my daughter appeared confused by the rejection. She went from a smile and out stretched hand to a bewildered look and retreat.
I followed.
I tried to explain to her that not everyone would appreciate our gifts and yet we should still give. He did not like her flower, but I did.

Years later, we still give a horrified laugh when we remember the insensitivity of the situation. There were other times when this same person was giving but had a hard time receiving. It would be easy to only perceive the weeds in life and not look for the flowers.
Weed or flower? The choice is yours.
It is really all about how you view it.

We used that day to learn to look beyond the obvious and try to be patient with each other.
By the grace of the Holy Spirit and a realization of our own faults we will be able to patiently anticipate the finished work in each other.
Only the potter knows when the pot is finished and complete. We are told to be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another.
Be patient with each other, sometimes things are not as they appear at the moment.
But the sculptor of our soul sees the complete picture before the unveiling.
Be patient.
Wait for the "Ta Da"! at the unveiling.

~Debbie
© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Ephesians 4:32
And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

Hand to the Plough

2010-01-30T11:52:00.012-06:00

I joined a gym a few months ago. This particular gym was new and still had plenty of equipment available for work outs. But recently, since the new year has begun, it is hard to find an empty machine. Regardless, of the time of day, most machines were occupied by new gym members.

Each new member was working out with great vigor and expectation of good things on the horizon. But in the space of a few weeks, the number of members and available equipment has fallen back to normal. Sigh.

Most of us are like that about a new step in life. Excited and ready to start immediately! Yet, results in most areas of life are not seen immediately. You have to persevere. Stick to it. There is a slow, steady ploughing of a new endeavor. A ploughing that breaks through the initial problem areas and then a reworking to a workable plan. Success.

My encouragement this week is to encourage you to put your hand back on the plough. Whether you are ploughing spiritually, physically, or mentally.

Do not give up. Even in gardening, the fields have to be ploughed repeatedly until the soil is pliable, broken up and ready for the applied seed. Prepare your fields. Do your part.

Eventually, there will be a harvest. Remember, even a field that is not ploughed will break through with weeds. Seeds are everywhere. Plant what you want to grow.

Be diligent......hands steady on the plough, working toward the desired harvest in your life and the lives of others.

~Debbie

Luke 9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

Romans 14:17
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

Choose Your Path Carefully

2010-01-20T10:50:00.022-06:00

Last week-end, I found myself on a road that appeared on the surface to be quite firm.
But I would soon learn that appearances can be deceiving!

We (husband and I) had a break in the weather and after being trapped inside for days, we decided to go for a drive.

So we drove to the country on the other side of Nashville.

Hills and valleys, streams and rivers. The country side was beautiful. We finally arrived at a scenic place to get out and take a walk through the woods. My husband began to look for a firm place to pull over and park off the road.
The road bed and the surrounding roadside appeared firm.

No standing water, yet beneath the surface, the clay mixed road bed had thawed, froze again, and thawed again after a hard rain.

Everything looked beautiful in the forest. The evergreen trees were freshly washed from the previous rain. The country road was not dusty and the sky was blue with just a hint of breeze blowing. Just beautiful.
Until..... we pulled off the road.

Life can be like this at times. The path your on, appears to be just fine. Until you take a moment to pull over. If we had examined our path closely we would have noticed that the road was fairly firm but just inches into the side of the road the land was mush!

Quickly realizing our mistake, we turned the wheel and started moving backwards.
Well, sort of. We actually moved backwards and forwards, and backwards and forwards with much prayer and steady slight turning of the steering wheel.
Going forward into the mush seemed counter productive but the driver hoped to find more solid ground on which to get a running start toward the road.
But we had made a rut.
Sometimes even our well meaning actions to get out of a mess....put us in a rut.
After much effort and many false starts we finally made it back to within a few feet from the road. Not back on the firm ground of the road bed. But close.
So close....yet so far. Long story short. We have a friend who lives right off that country road who has a tractor.
We walked down the road and our friend pulled us out of the ditch with that beautiful country tractor. After a bit of effort he pulled us out of our dilemma, for which we are very grateful.
What could have been a huge aggravation ended on a positive note because of the help of a friend when we wandered off the path.

Life is like that. God has a chosen path for us to follow and yet if we through accident or rebellion wander off it, He is prepared to rescue you if you will come to Him and ask.
Don't leave your life or your truck in a ditch. Get some help. I am glad we did.

~Debbie

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Proverbs 4:26Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.

Boundaries, This is Important

2010-01-09T20:33:00.012-06:00

Boundaries can be ancient landmarks, ways or laws that were established in our life time or far before the day we were born. In our current society there is not much respect held for boundaries that were put in place to be beneficial to mankind, spiritually and physically.
In general I have seen a repetitive mindset that throws all things away in lieu of something new.
Not better. Just new.

Today I traveled many small towns and back roads and appreciated the boundaries that were set in place, a neighboring fence, a stop sign, a sign that warned of sharp curves ahead, one lane bridges, etc.....
Large and small boundaries that made my day and my path so much easier to navigate.

Man established these boundaries and at will, can and has changed these boundaries.
Yet, God gave us boundaries that are never to be changed by mere man.

Some old places I passed had been designated as landmarks, historical landmarks.
One building even stated on the front "This is important"
So man has recognized some ancient landmarks and yet ignores or replaces thousands of others that have far greater value to the spiritual and physical needs of our nation.

Each dismissed boundary shouts from our past "This is Important"

I am one, you are one. In my life I can choose to honor God's word and obey the boundaries that His love for me has established. As an individual I can daily find a way to establish God's word, His ancient landmark in my heart and my everyday life.
In the physical realm, I can let my voice be heard for the good.
There are many ways to establish a landmark or recognize and honor our ancient spiritual and physical landmarks.
Set a precedence.
You are the generation that will establish your children's landmarks.
Be one.
A vocal, active one.
I am one. You are one.
Make a difference.

~Debbie

Proverbs 22:28
Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.

Goals and The New Year

2009-12-30T13:34:00.009-06:00

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 given area. Do not berate yourself at the end of the day. Find a positive and build on that.
*The important thing is to have a goal followed by action. Congratulate yourself on your success even in minuet matters. It is not whether you succeeded or failed, but that you tried. Congratulations! This does get easier.

Soul-the principle of life, feeling, thought, and action in humans, regarded as a distinct entity separate from the body, and commonly held to be separable in existence from the body; the spiritual part of humans as distinct from the physical part.
2. (My intentions/goal)My emotional well being, my feelings. My emotional well being is established by trust. Trust in the word of God and those that I am in relationship with. My immediate circle of love and outward.
For me to stay stable in this area, it is imperative that I study the Word of God on a regular basis. From this I am able to judge the proper way for me to respond to everyday life. This means that I must set aside time to read God's word daily. This is my compass, my true north.
If I am not viewing myself and others with the mind of Christ it is easy to become offended and in a ditch emotionally. I am dependant by choice on the word of God. Make time for your relationship with God.
*No relationship stays vibrant and healthy if you neglect to give time and effort toward it.

Body-the physical structure and material substance of an animal or plant, living or dead.
3. (My intentions/goal)Most of us neglect the vessel that carries us around. Our body.
I am guilty. As I age, I have noticed that my body demands attention toward its care far louder than it ever did when I was young. Obviously, better nutrition, water, and movement are in order. So there you have it. Moderation in those things that are not so great nutritionally, and a focused effort toward taking better care of the body I have been given.
*Moderation. Little by little, step by step, take better care of yourself.

May God grant each of you, His wisdom,protection and help in the New Year as you live your life in obedience to Him.

~Debbie

1 Thessalonians 5:23
And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Are YOU Prepared to Live?

2009-12-17T10:31:00.014-06:00

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 precious moment as though it is the last moment.

~Debbie

Ecclesiastes 3:2A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up [that which is] planted;

1 John 3:23And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.

1 Corinthians 13:12For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

Enough

2009-12-08T20:33:00.029-06:00

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 this, you can see how the Lord supernaturally provided a place of rest, food, and water. Elijah was a man who lived in a human body and needed spiritual encouragement as well as physical rest and nutrition . We also need to take care of these requirements of rest, food, and water.
Elijah was tired and discouraged. We also become tired and discouraged.
Everything looks worse when you are tired. Try not to make major decisions when you find yourself in this condition. Elijah was so overcome that he asked God to let him die. As you read the rest of the chapter you will see how he continued with his doldrums to the point that he hid in a cave and God allowed him to hide, but then asked him twice "What doest thou here, Elijah?"

Elijah's desire to die was a permanent solution to a very temporary problem.

God did not berate him but gave him what he needed. Rest, food, water, encouragement and a new assignment.

God allowed him to recuperate and then showed him that his work for Him was not finished.

God encouraged Elijah by reminding him that he was not the only one left who still served Him.

God also showed Elijah that regardless of the storm, fire, wind, earthquakes and such that as the commotion dies down that it is His still small voice that we will hear.

In the midst of your life....have you heard His still small voice speaking to you. Listen and remember....you will probably recall His gentle nudging to take care of yourself and to be encouraged that you are not alone.

The storms will pass and you will continue. Do not give up. We are counting on you.

~Debbie

1 Kings 19:11
And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; [but] the LORD [was] not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; [but] the LORD [was] not in the earthquake:

1 Kings19:12
And after the earthquake a fire; [but] the LORD [was] not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.

1 Kings 19:13
And it was [so], when Elijah heard [it], that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, [there came] a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?

1 Year Blog Anniversary/LOLO

2009-12-02T08:07:00.013-06:00

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 shall never fall:

2 Peter 1:11
For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 1:12
Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know [them], and be established in the present truth.

2 Peter 1:13
Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting [you] in remembrance;

Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T17:19:00.011-06:00

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 thankful.
Give thanks with me and may you have a time of thanksgiving that does not end by the end of the day but continues in your actions daily.

~Debbie

Leviticus 22:29 And when ye will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving unto the LORD, offer [it] at your own will.

Volunteer

2009-11-19T02:38:00.008-06:00

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 commitments that need to be fulfilled. Work and family.
Yet, we as a complete package belong to the Lord. Therefore our time belongs to Him also.
So volunteer.
Give the Lord your hands, feet, understanding, abilities, etc...
Give a few minutes or a chunk of your very precious time on a regular basis.
We all have 24 hours a day, but minute by minute we are spending our allotted time, not knowing how many minutes are in our lifetime bank.
So spend yours prayerfully and carefully.

~Debbie

Colossians 3:23
And whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

Leftovers! Again

2009-11-10T08:09:00.003-06:00

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 and your family.
Prepackaged. Packaged meals with instructions.
It feeds you a meal, yet something is missing.
That something is the knowledge that it was intended and prepared specifically for you.

Life demands a huge investment in time and effort.
Do not give those you care about....leftovers on a regular basis.
They might be time savers, but they are not relationship savers.
We all need to feel special on a regular basis.
Anything worth doing. Is worth doing right.
Leftovers are fine occasionally.
But no one who has a relationship with you, will only want the leftovers of your time and effort.
What's for dinner?

~Debbie

Galations 5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only [use] not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

Do Not Give Up

2009-11-03T09:24:00.006-06:00

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 He has for each of us.

Prayerfully consider your decisions.
Is it harvest time?
Or is it a Sabbath rest for you and your fields?

~Debbie

John 8:12
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

2 Corinthians 4:4
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

Fall Back

2009-10-23T09:11:00.007-05:00

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 shed the extracurricular leaves of our lives. This will free us to concentrate on the root of our lives.
In the garden, when you prune back leaves or limbs of a plant, it concentrates or focuses the strength back to the roots.
The same refocus of energy and new strength happens to us if we also prune back the unnecessary in our own lives.

If life is too hectic, too much, or you have lost touch with what is important.
Fall back or Spring forward, but do something!
Life is passing and this is the only one we have until eternity.

~Debbie

Ecclesiastes 3:1
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

He Showed Me the Rain

2009-10-14T14:41:00.008-05:00

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 rain.
Rain that quenched the need of the earth, yet the raindrops were not noticed individually.
Yet, each drop met a need.
Rain, like friendship is a gift from God, meeting a need
Sometimes noticed only temporarily because it brought relief, not simply because it was rain.

Sometimes our gift of friendship to one another is like the rain.
Absorbed and forgotten, yet needed. A gift from God that has fulfilled its purpose.

So He uses us to rain His love and care
One drop at a time, rivers of living water, flowing out of our bellies-one to another.
Friends.
Friends who had been and friends who will be...
Filled and watered by His love.
One drop at a time.
I showed myself friendly and He showed me the rain.

~Debbie

What Side Are You On?

2009-10-08T07:36:00.003-05:00

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 the right side of the ship, and ye shall find."
Peter starts out doing something which appears harmless and necessary. He went to work.
When he was called, he was fishing, doing his job.
He had been a fisherman by trade. The problem was, Peter was no longer a fisherman.
He had been called by Jesus to be a fisher of men.
His calling was sure and he applied himself until he lost sight of Jesus.
So Peter did what most of us do. He did what he had always done.
He applied himself to the task of catching fish and he caught nothing!

The ocean was full of fish. But now, there was no blessing in Peter's job.
He came up empty when he worked in his own strength.
It states in John 21 that Peter was fishing naked.
Doing things your own way...leaves you naked.

And yet when the morning was come....
Physically the morning dawned and spiritually the Light of the World, Jesus appeared and showed them what was needed.
Peter put back on his covering and his obedience brought blessing.

My thought was that Peter was on the left side or wrong side of his calling.
On a daily basis we fish. Aka...work, marry, raise children, and the list goes on.
And yet if we are not doing what we know we have been called and raised up to do...we are fishing on the left side of the boat.
And we come up with nothing.
When we follow God's direction and cast our net aka our calling in Christ Jesus/our lives on the right side of the boat...we find our prosperity.
Prosperity to meet our needs, more than enough.
More than enough blessing for us as well as those whom God has placed with us.

As you read the rest of John chapter 21, you see that Jesus did not berate Simon Peter, but showed him His provision that was provided by Peter's obedience to do as Jesus instructed. Regardless, of Peter's questions, Jesus reminds him of his original calling.
Follow me and again, Follow thou me. John 21:19 and John 21:22.

Are you fishing on the wrong side of the boat?
If you are, I want to encourage you to cast your net on the right side.

~Debbie

Ruffled Feathers

2009-10-01T10:53:00.012-05:00

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 saw them.

Under the eaves of the overhang of the building where I sat, were three birds.
One bird was flying in and out attending to its nest, hidden in the eave.
The other two were busy twittering and preening. As I silently watched, I noticed they would quit flapping about and would start to preen. Their feathers were puffed out!

What causes a bird to preen...is ruffled feathers!

They pull their feathers one by one through their beak and cause the small barbs on their feathers to lie down. It is hard to fly when your feathers are ruffled.

To tend to preening...you need to be still.

Thus my call to sit for a while and allow the Holy Spirit to smooth my ruffled feathers.
I needed to be still.
Not deny there was a problem, but allow the Lord to realign my feathers.

Preening peacefully,
~Debbie

Psalm 91:4He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

Flowers For YOU!

2009-09-29T15:14:00.007-05:00

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

2009-09-24T22:39:00.012-05:00

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 religiously, yet thoughtfully. That He who granted you the privilege of prayer will meet yours and their need.
He awaits. Our petition, our prayer, our thanksgiving that He is who He says He is, and He will do what He said He would. He changeth not...on this you can rely.
No magic formula. But a sovereign God and Savior who will accomplish what He has sent His word to accomplish. His word will not come back void.
Pray today. Pray His word. Thank Him for He careth for you.

~Debbie

Isaiah 55:11
So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

Ephesians 6:18
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

1Titus 2:1
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

Jealousy

2009-09-20T14:26:00.018-05:00

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

2009-09-15T18:26:00.020-05:00

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 encourage you to shine.
There are storms that would try to quench His light in you, yet shine.

God wants to use us to light the darkness around us.
~Debbie

Luke 11:33
No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light.

Philippians 2:15
That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

Daniel 12:3
And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

Matthew 5:16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Walking Gracefully

2009-09-05T22:20:00.004-05:00

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 word,
~Debbie

What Smell?

2009-09-03T06:38:00.007-05:00

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 attitude is great, careful consideration may be in order.
Spending time in God's word can be a drain basket for your less than lovely attitude.
Take a few moments and thoughtfully, stop and smell your attitude.
A lot of times upon closer inspection you will find that it is not as sweet as you once thought.
Removal of the junk and air freshener does wonders for your home.
Application of God's word and a fresh wind of God's Holy Spirit can clean up the most offensive things.

Cleaning house inside and out.
~Debbie

Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpeneth iron, so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

NOT Forgotten

2009-08-31T09:08:00.012-05:00

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 forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.

Psalm 139:15
My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
Psalm 139:16
Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.
Psalm 139:17
How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!
Psalm 139:18
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.

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

2009-08-26T17:21:00.013-05:00

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 vacationing.

Enjoy! Story below is from the link above...copyrighted to Kristin Espinasse.

A Day in a French Life...by Kristin Espinasse

We arrived in Croatia at 10:30 at night after a 14-hour drive from Ovada. This late in the evening, I could not yet make out the charming maisonnette* that was to be our rental for the next seven days.
The location* was part of a farmhouse, long since divided up like a Kit Kat wafer. If you stood facing the long building, you could easily pick out our unit, with its cheery lavender-colored facade, its little iron fence, geraniums tumbling down the sides. Above the patio a sprawling grapevine provided shade and a visual feast: clusters of sweet fruit. The bright little abode was bookended by the continuation of a grayish colored building in need of repair and refacing.
I looked up at the grapes each night as I sat reading in a cozy, cushioned chair. Though I had brought a stack of books (ranging from "The Life of a Simple Man" to "Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress"), in the evening I took advantage of the serene setting for some scriptural study.
Around the second or third night, my feet propped up on a chair, I settled into my cozy routine. That's when I heard the crunching of gravel. My ears tuned in to the driveway, just outside our enclosed patio, as I listened to the sound of Croatian steps approaching.
I soon sensed the presence of a stranger on the other side of the fence, just inches from where I sat. "Hello," I said."What are you reading?" the stranger nodded his reply.
Caught off guard, I thought about the object of my study, and how prayer isn't something you shout from the rooftops; just like tithing -- where your left hand shouldn't know what your right hand is doing -- worship should be done in private. No need to blab about holy matters, or how much they matter to you -- when actions speak louder than words.
But with the stranger's eye now poking right through the bars of the front fence, I had no other option but to reveal my spiritual zeal.
"I... am reading the Bible," I replied."Yes, but which book?"For a moment, I was confused, for I had told the stranger what book I was reading: the Holy Bible.
I looked up at the man, who waited for my answer. He was tall and thin, with shoulder-length locks. He looked to be about my age, forty-something.
Book... In fact, the stranger had already identified the livre* that I was reading (the gilded pages were a giveaway) and wanted to know which chapter I was reading -- only he had correctly called the sections "books".
Distracted, I had to look down to the delicate pages to answer his question."Romans," I informed him.The man nodded and there followed a moment of silence, one I was anxious to fill. Only, what to say?
"Do you read the Bible?" I inquired, feeling like a Sunday school teacher's pet. I hoped I didn't sound that way -- but I could think of nothing else to say."Sometimes. When I am not working," replied the stranger.
I remembered the other Croatians that I had recently met, all of whom were so busy working to make ends meet that vacation--even home-bound R&R and meditation--were an unaffordable luxury.
"Do you live around here?" I asked."No, I live in the city." I thought about all the HLM's* we had passed by, dingy gray façades that were peeling like sunburned giants. The dilapidated units were piled, one over the other, sky high. There were hundreds of humble abodes within one dismal block of concrete. The blocks crowded the graffitied commercial centers, where we went to buy our bread and butter. What a contrast these "homes" were to the charming vacation rentals on the coast....
"My grandmother lived there," the stranger continued, pointing to a house up the dirt lane. "She passed away three years ago. She was ninety-one."
Listening to the grown man talk about his grandmother, I was lost for words, but managed a random reply:"She had a nice life," I offered, once again petting another's pride.
"Not a nice life," the man corrected, "a long life".
Having said a simple goodbye, the mysterious man walked on, leaving me with the power of words--exact words, not fluffed up, flattering ones. I made a commitment, then and there, to make an effort to practice precise speech, to slow down in time to search for les mots justes,* for exact words--and to have the confidence to deliver them. Even the overworked stranger had made the time, and had had the self-respect, to do as much.
I closed my "books," as the stranger had justly called them, and relished the unexpected lesson, on truth, that I had learned from the other side of the fence.

Knowing Your Purpose

2009-08-24T08:34:00.013-05:00

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 those who are called according to his purpose. Now is not the time to panic..know your purpose.
Jesus was able to do the things he did because he knew who he was.
Do you know who you are? If you belong to the Lord, then He lives in you and through you.
And who you are...is a new creature in Christ, you are HIS.

I am not suggesting that you act as an ostrich with your head in the sand. You are in the world and life happens. But there is a peace in knowing that he who loved you, loved you to the end.
Focus on your purpose. Do not be distracted.
Jehovah-Jireh, your provider will sustain you through each step of your journey. He will never leave you or forsake you.

Know your purpose. Commit to your purpose. Carry out your purpose.

~Debbie

John 13:1
Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.

Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

This is Painful.

2009-08-20T08:48:00.015-05:00

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 Father God desires CONFORMED.
You see, we have been made a new creature in Christ Jesus when we accept His shed blood for the forgiveness of our sins.

God only discards our sins....not us.

So we are remade, day by day, into a vessel of use, fit for His plan in our lives.
Again, this is painful.

So back to the original question. Are you broken? Well, be encouraged that there is a wonderous repair happening in you.

~Debbie

Romans 8:29
For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

Romans 12:2
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God

2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Galatians 6:15
For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.

Fruit

2009-08-18T10:58:00.015-05:00

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 fruit.

~Debbie

Galatians 5:22,23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Luke 13:7Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?

Be Not Weary-Life Happens

2009-08-12T09:48:00.007-05:00

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 and testings that happen to us all. Be in it to win it.

~Debbie

Galatians 6:9
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Letting Go of Cockatoo Dreams

2009-08-08T07:38:00.013-05:00

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

2009-08-04T10:14:00.007-05:00

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. I need encouragement.
The next time you are stirred to send a note, a smile, or anything that would encourage.
DO IT.
Appearances can be deceiving. You might convince yourself that the other person does not need it, yet it is needed.
Everyone needs encouragement.
Everyone has a God given destiny and our encouragement can make a difference.

~Debbie

Deuteronomy 1:38 But Joshua the son of Nun, which standeth before thee, he shall go in thither: encourage him: for he shall cause Israel to inherit it.

What Are You Doing?

2009-07-29T06:31:00.010-05:00

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 someone else. What would I tell someone else?

Make a plan and execute the plan. Easy. Right? NO.
So maybe I need to look at what I am not doing to decide what I am doing.

Here is what I am not doing.

1. I am not running ahead of God, looking back to see if He has caught up to me and my plan.
2. I am not fretting about things that I have no control or authority to change.
3. I am not waiting to see how I feel about His word before I move in obedience to His word.
4. I am not looking at another person to do for me what only I can do through my choices.
5. I am not leaning on my own understanding.

Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

There is my answer. What am I doing? I am in the process of trusting God with all my heart.
Simplified this equals....
Always do the right thing and expect God to do His part.
You can do this. I can do this.

~Debbie

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Faithful

2009-07-23T08:09:00.006-05:00

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 keep pressing in and on regardless of the circumstances. But, I want to encourage you to do just that.
Be faithful.
There is a reward.

God promised and He can not and will not lie.
1Samuel 15:29 And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent.

Matthew 25:21
His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

~Debbie

Our Cross

2009-07-15T22:33:00.007-05:00

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 that cross my path that I must walk out to the glory of God and the continued growth I experience as I obey His word in my everyday life.
Deny myself is what I am doing when I refuse to do what I want to do naturally and do instead what I believe God's word tells me to do in any given situation according to His written word in Scripture.
And sometimes the load is bigger than my faith or my natural ability and I stagger as I walk the path of obedience assigned to me.
And yet, the Lord will send me a helper to accomplish the carrying of the required load. Sometimes my helper is another person who helps shoulder the load physically or points my eyes heaven wards. It is easy to become over whelmed with the difficulty of life when your eyes are not lifted upward.
Following Him is what happens as I lay down my will and pick up my cross.
Not your cross
Not His cross
My cross.

~Debbie

Matthew 27:32
And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.

Marathon=Focused Intensity

2009-07-04T10:55:00.014-05:00

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. It is easy to lag behind and lose focus of why you entered this race of your faith. The marathon of life makes many demands upon your being. It is necessary to renew your strength and refocus as you run. The Lord is in the race with you. He is encouraging you onward and hands you a cup of living water as you thirst. The race has a beginning and an end. He sends you off, He provides for you as you run, and He waits at the Finish line for your triumphant entry. Do not give up.

Be in it to win it.

~Debbie

Philippians 3:14
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus

1Corinthians 9:24
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.

Words, Weed and Reseed

2009-06-30T09:41:00.015-05:00

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 has been seasoned by the Word of God.

~Debbie

Proverbs 18:21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

An Excerpt From " A Dog's Purpose"

2009-06-24T15:38:00.032-05:00

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.

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY
-Unknown author

--------------------------------------------
Everyday of our life is a gift. Take the time to slowly unwrap the paper, admire the bows, and share the gift.
With a smile at the thought of God's beautiful handiwork which He created ...by creating YOU.
~Debbie

Bread Trail

2009-06-17T11:24:00.013-05:00

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 know about you but I think it is time for a snack!
I think a bit of bread would satisfy me:)

~Debbie

Psalm 119:105
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

No Parking

2009-06-15T23:29:00.020-05:00

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
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Remember, until we go to heaven our parking passes are expired.

Mark 16:15
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Moving forward...
~Debbie

Gardening

2009-06-08T21:44:00.025-05:00

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 tend to start growing again.
I may convince myself at times that my garden is just fine ...Thank you!
But just like my rose and vegetable garden I soon see evidence of a few weeds amongst the roses in the garden of my heart without proper attention on a regular basis.

The scripture reference below said this about tares.
tares- a kind of darnel, resembling wheat except the grains are black
The important part of this to me was that it resembled wheat.. it wasn't wheat.

There are things that I allow at times, convinced that they are part of a good harvest.
But without the light and truth of God's word it is easy to be deceived by the appearance of a weed.
My garden once again...for the moment is weed free.
But least I become deceived by appearances...I must observe carefully the planting and harvest of my garden and the care that it requires to give an account to the Lord of the Harvest.
Remember...the Word of God zaps weeds at the root when applied liberally.

Matthew 13:27
So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?

~Debbie

I recently received a blog award by a lovely lady named Helen. I will post it and the future recipients a bit later. Thanks Helen:)

Hello

2009-05-31T23:00:00.016-05:00

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 Chavers

Bridges re-aired this interview on June 29, 2010 and in October 2010.

Stretch

2009-05-27T05:45:00.007-05:00

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 prayed; and turning [him] to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.
Acts 9:41 And he gave her [his] hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive.
Acts 9:42 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.

Just as Dorcas, we too can make a difference by our giving.

Because of her giving, others sought the Lord in her healing and others were led to believe because of her being raised from the dead. Her reaching out to others through service to the needy pointed others to Christ. How cool is this!
Your dispersing or giving to others can have the same effect. That which is dead, can be resurrected unto new life. The word stretcheth had a dictionary link of "to disperse or break apart as bread to others.
"So on days that you are feeling stretched beyond reason.
I hope you remember Dorcas and take heart that your stretching is not in vain.

~Debbie Chavers

In Memory

2009-05-25T08:08:00.007-05:00

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