Thursday, December 29, 2022


 December 30, 2022


Christmas is such a sweet time!  We love the decorations that remind us of the birth of our Saviour, the Christchild.  

This little decoration turned itself on and off at its own choosing this year.  It was such a treat - such a reminder of Christ's presence with me this Christmas season! It would be off, then it would be sparkling away brightly!  

As I take the decorations down the thought comes to me that we must continue to 'seek Him'!

We won't have the bright sparkling decorations as such an easy visual.  So, we must search for Him a little more diligently!  

Let's decorate with things in our home that will help to remind us of Him - that will help us to remember Him and to glorify Him.

Let us spend time in His Word.

Let us be part of a local church where we can grow in the Word, have fellowship with other believers, and serve Him. 

Make sure you seek Him and search for Him!

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

Those little kind gestures make memories.....

 Often as I go through the doorway of our bedroom I think of the time....

when our sweet little Missy, as a young girl, tried to bring us breakfast in bed one morning. She had quietly fixed us breakfast and held it at our bedroom door.  When she knocked on the door the breakfast spilled and juice went onto the new carpet.  That was years ago and today as I go into our bedroom I don't think of the spilled juice on the carpet - instead I think of the love she showed us by fixing us breakfast.   

Two thoughts here:  when accidents happen - as they will from time to time- don't overreact about the accident.  Clean the mess up and move on.  Don't make someone have a bad memory over an accident.

........And remember to do little acts of kindness that will make positive memories.   

It is the Christmas season now.  Several years ago I fell and broke my kneecap.  I was rather laid up and couldn't get out much.  So Emily and Missy gathered me up, propped my leg up in the back seat of our suburban, packed a picnic lunch, and drove me around La Junta to look at the lights.  We had a great time! That was such a little thing but it made a BIG memory for me.  

We don't need big trips or outings to make great memories - we need little kindness shown every day to have wonderful happy memories!

What can you do today or tomorrow to make a memory for someone this Christmas season?


Friday, October 28, 2022

A blessing for a birthday gift....


 Today I read an article about a favorite birthday gift.  The article was written by a person who said her favorite birthday gift ever was a blessing from her grandmother.  The grandmother, year after year, would give this birthday blessing to each grandchild on their birthday.  

Many happy returns on the day of thy birth,

May sunshine and gladness be given.

May God in His mercy prepare you on earth

For a beautiful birthday in heaven. (Jacobs and Lincoln)

The author of the article said she waited all day for the blessing.  Sometimes her grandmother would call, sometimes she would give the blessing when she saw the child that day, or sometimes it was given at the family birthday party.  She said it was the same gift every year and one that she carried with her all year and now gives to her family.  

I just thought this was a great idea and an idea for a family tradition that could be used by us. 

"Our grandchildren need hopeful, encouraging, inspiring words from the people they love.  I pray the Lord will give us the eyes to see the significance of even the smallest word of encouragement.  May we renew our efforts to share simple, special moments with our grandchildren and reassure them that they are loved and never alone." Kay Swatkowski


Praying aloud with your spouse and grandkids...

 I want to share with you all a couple of ideas for praying at night before the lights go out with your spouse and or your children and grandchildren.

    Gail and I began praying together aloud as a couple at night before we went to sleep many years ago.  Someone wisely gave us this advice when we were a young couple.  We have kept doing this now for fifty years.  It has been a wonderful thing to do. By praying aloud and together you know what your spouse is thinking and concerned about.  It helps you to know their thoughts.  It lets you pray in agreement for your concerns. There have been a few times that we were struggling in our relationship and it was very difficult to pray together.  But having committed to doing this we were able to settle our differences and mend our relationship before we prayed.  Just couldn't sleep on the couch!

    We also prayed aloud with our children as we tucked them in and are now trying to do the same with our grandkids when they get to stay all night at our house.  We usually pray and then let the child pray.  This is such a blessing!!!  Sometimes the grandchild will be in our bedroom on the floor in a sleeping bag and we all three get to pray aloud before we go to sleep.  Such a huge honor to have the grandchildren praying with us.  Sometimes we may have several grandchildren staying with us, I am tired, and I am thankful it is bedtime.  Sometimes I want to just say goodnight and turn off the light!!! But (I am preaching to me) don't miss an opportunity to pray with those special little ones, to know their hearts, to hear their prayers to our God!  This is an honor and privilege and a way to help the grandchildren cement their relationship with our Lord!

Hope these ideas can help your marriage and family! God Bless You!

Sunday, October 16, 2022

My thoughts about Halloween...

 Thoughts about Halloween from an old granma.....Just saying....




It is that time of year again already.  Just want to tell you the older I get the more I feel the need to steer clear of this holiday.  It has such a dark spiritual feel to me.

I can think back to enjoying Halloween as a child.  One year, now to my horror, I was dressed as a witch and we had a party at my grandmother's basement.  Now it bothers me that I was dressed like that.  You see, I do not want in any way to open myself up to let the devil have a foothold in my life.  

Your actions now can affect not only you but your children or grandchildren.

We also need to be watchful about what we let into our homes.  Is there anything in them that would attract Satan and his evil spirits?  It is a good idea every once in a while to look around and clean things out that don't honor God.  

As Christians, our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit.  Let us do all we can to keep them clean and honoring to Him. I Cor. 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God?  You are not your own, for you were bought with a price.  So glorify God in your body.   

I am asking you to listen to the nudgings of the Holy Spirit in your life. Don't harden your heart but seek what God has for you as you decide to celebrate or not celebrate this holiday. 

A couple of questions you could ask yourself are:

Would I do this if Jesus was with me?  

Will this action honor God? 

 Will this help or hurt my Christian witness?

Will this activity help me to grow spiritually?

Just saying .......because I love and care about you all. 

Friday, October 14, 2022

TRUTH....or....LIES? What will you believe?


One of my granddaughters recently posted this picture on her Facebook page.   It brought me a lot of joy to see that she saw the value of this sign:


Then my grandmother's devotion this morning addressed these issues.  There are so many thoughts we let roll around in our minds that are not true.  No one likes me.  No one loves me.  Everyone else has friends but me. God only loves perfect people.  I should make everyone happy all the time.  It doesn't matter what I think or how I feel.  It is all my fault.. . . . . . 

Many of us believe lies about ourselves because of our past.  Maybe we have someone who has abused or neglected us.  Some of us believe lies about God or His Word. Maybe we don't know the Truth of God's Word and have believed lies instead.  Maybe we have had a spiritual battle and have let Satan have the victory.  These 'things/battles' can cause us great pain and distress.  

At these times - when you have these thoughts and struggles - remember that God is with you.  These are lies and we can be free from them.  First, surrender your life to Christ and accept His salvation. Then accept the freedom from the 'lies' that you have been delivered or are thinking.  Correct the faulty beliefs.  Don't accept them.  Remember YOU ARE LOVED BY GOD.  YOU ARE HIS PRECIOUS CHILD!

Remember no one is perfect.  We are all sinners. Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.  

We can have forgiveness for our sins when we ask.  I John 1:9  If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from unrighteousness.

Know God's Word and stand by it.  Ephesians 6:14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place.  

Guard your thoughts.  2 Corinthians 10:5 We demolish arguments and every lofty opinion, raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.

Don't conform to the world but be transformed and changed through Christ and the Bible. Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  

Think about those things that are true and pure and good.  Philippians 4:8  Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.  

KNOW YOU ARE LOVED AND VALUED!!



Wednesday, September 28, 2022

Winning the Heart of Your Child


 I just recently finished up this book.  The title originally caught my eye because I  have always thought that those parents who had successful relationships with their children had their children's hearts.  Now as a grandparent I too want to know how to have my grandchildren's hearts.  I want to share with you a few ideas from the book that I hope you will find helpful.  

The author said that the parents are the most important people in their children's lives in their early years.  Then when they hit the teen years they look to others such as their peers, the culture, and other adults, and you as the parents take the fourth most important position for influence.  Don't fight this but use it....to win the keys to your child's heart.

1.  Widen the circle of influence for your children.  Let them be around good coaches, teachers, Godly families, next-door neighbors, relatives, youth pastors, mentors, and friends who care about your child and are willing to steer him or her in the right direction. 

2.  Time is not on your side so use your time wisely.  Don't wait to spend time with your kids, as they grow up soon and are gone.  Get to know your children.  There should be a number of quality times! Step into their world and listen to their hearts.  If your child seems busy and not interested in spending time with you then take the little amount of time they might give you and use it as best you can.  Relate to them on their level. What are they interested in? Seize the small moments along with the big elaborate times together.   

3.  Be dedicated and involved in your children's lives.  Carve out time to listen to your kids. Set aside your cell phone and turn off the radio so they can have your full attention as you visit. Intentionally schedule a time to do something special with your child such as going out to eat, shop, or to go get coffee. Kids do need boundaries and correction. When your child does something wrong actively listen and communicate with your child before jumping in to correct him. 

4. Be consistent! Consistently love, be consistent with boundaries and appropriate discipline, and consistently spend time with your children.

5.  Tell your kids you love them and show them you do.  Affirm and encourage your kids.  Tell them you believe in them and their strengths.  Our words matter but our tone is also important. Ask your child to forgive you when you mess up in your parenting.  "There is power and freedom in seeking forgiveness.  It teaches our children how to forgive." (pg. 149)

6. Don't let fear of failure or inadequacy slip into your mind as you parent. Don't compare yourself or your family to other families.  God has put each parent in the place he is in.  Look at God and what He has for you. When you as a parent give in to fear it inhibits your parenting. You are a good mom or dad.  Listen to the voice of TRUTH!

7. Blend love and discipline for influence.  You as the parent as important.  You can influence your kids.  Think in the long term.  Have love, healthy boundaries, and consistent parenting in every season of your children's lives. 

Parenting is a big job and can have its difficulties.  Hang in there.  Seek God and His ways.  Keep moving forward!    And be sure you kids Know Christ and are saved!!

Comparison....don't do it

 

What do you see? Spatulas!!  Each is a different size, and each is created differently to do a specific job.  

We are the same way! You and I are each different from each other and have different jobs to do.  We need to ask the Holy Spirit to guide us to do our job to the best of our abilities.  We need to keep our eyes focused on the goals set before us.  

We must not COMPARE ourselves with others. God has a plan and a direction for you.  He has made you for such a time as this to do His will. Don't give in to the devil's schemes to feel that you can't do good enough.  You can! God put you where you are! You can do it!!!! Listen to the voice of Truth!

Grace and Justice




 I am so blessed to be able to teach Sunday school again!  Our class is using the Answers in Genesis materials.  A few weeks ago the lesson was on the Israelites and their sin in making the golden calf from Exodus 32.  The lesson book talked about the grace that was shown by God when he did not kill all the Israelites for their sinful ways.  He showed favor to the unworthy.  He spared them from death.  

Then it talked about justice - that God is perfectly righteous in His treatment of his creatures. He is just. It is one of God's attributes.  The sins of the Israelites called for a just action from God even though God had given them His grace.  So God had many of those who continued in their rebellious ways killed by the sword and then others were destroyed by a plague.

It seems that today we want only grace.  When justice takes place we think we are being taken advantage of or treated unfairly.  Step back. Look at the bigger picture.  Be thankful for grace and favor when it is given you BUT also accept justice and the punishment that is given when it is deserved. 


Tuesday, September 27, 2022

Trimming petunias

You may recall that last year I wrote a blog about my flower pots. The petunias came back from seed again this year and looked beautiful.  About July the flowers were getting gangly looking so I trimmed them back.  They looked great again for about two months and then they were getting gangly again.  So in mid-September, my little helper and I trimmed them once again.  And once again they came back and look beautiful. I know there are other ways to keep the flowers looking nice but this is a quick fix and it works great.  It takes about ten days for the petunias to begin blooming again. 



Thursday, September 15, 2022

Zucchini Bars - another favorite recipe




 This recipe for Zucchini Bars is one I have had for years that I got from my sister, Cindi.  Some of my favorite recipes are from her! It makes two pans of dessert.  I often freeze one and have some dessert ready to pull out of the freezer when I need one.


Zucchini Bars

Mix:

3 eggs, 1 c. oil, 2 c. sugar, 2 c. grated zucchini (does not need to be peeled first), 3 Tablespoon vanilla

Add:

2 1/3 c. flour, 1/4 tsp. baking powder, 1 tsp. salt, 2 tsp. soda, 1 cup walnuts

Bake in 2- 9 x 13 greased and floured cake pans at 350 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes

FROSTING

1 stick oleo or butter, 3 oz. softened cream cheese, 2 tsp. vanilla, 2 1/2 c. powdered sugar

Beat until fluffy and put on baked and cooled bars.  The frosting and nuts really make this yummy!


Friday, August 26, 2022

Rancher junk

 

Just a thought to say: every job we have has some good parts we enjoy and some 'other jobs'! Those other jobs are also important, though not very romantic!

One of those jobs got done this summer...It seems every place has a pile of old metal and equipment that needs to be hauled off and discarded.  Gail had such a pile and decided he had a little time and could get our pile hauled into town to the scrap metal yard. Such a blessing to get the pile cleaned up and hauled off.   

We try to keep our place looking nice. We feel it is an important part of our Christian witness.  It honors the Lord to be a good steward of what He has given us - to take care of what we have.  

There are jobs we like to do like branding and riding to move the cattle.  And there are jobs we don't like to do like scooping out the old, dry, dusty manure in the stock trailer.  But they are all necessary. We MUST do them all!

Don't procrastinate....do all the jobs....give thanks.....glorify God!

Beets - a thing our grandmothers served!!!



 Beets - have you ever cooked them?  They are sort of a food of the past.  I remember one of my grandmothers serving them often. Yet they are delicious and easy to fix.  Let me share with you how to do that now that they are available at the farmer's markets nearby. 

You take the beets and rinse them well.  The tops should be cut off as in the above picture.  Then put them in a pot of water and boil them until they are tender.  Pour off the water and let them cool.  The beets will stain your hands when you work with them, so I put on a pair of disposable gloves. With your gloves on, rub the beets to remove the skins which will come off easily. You are ready to then cut your beets in bite-size pieces. Put a little butter and vinegar on them and warm them and enjoy them. They are a healthy vegetable for you to enjoy!

May the Lord find us faithful.....

 A small miracle happened in August, we were able to get all 23 grandchildren and their parents together for a family picture! It is so special to have these photos and memories.  Many of you commented on the photos that were on Facebook.  Thank you for the kind comments.  

I have given some thought to this event and these pictures.  Here are a few of my thoughts:

We are blessed beyond measure to have these grandchildren in our lives.  They are EACH special and unique. They are each so very loved and prayed for. 

We are not a perfect family.  We are a Godly family striving to live Godly lives.  We have made mistakes and will probably make more of them.  But we are seeking God and trying to live by His Word. We are thankful for His gift of forgiveness when we confess our sins and ask for it.  ( I John 1:9)

 I remember my growing up years.  I didn't do everything right.  I loved the Lord but failed miserably at times to honor and glorify Him.  I am thankful God and my family didn't give up on me.  Half of our grandchildren are in their teens or up.  These years can define their future depending on the choices they make.  Please pray for them that they may hear from God and obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit. We covet your prayers.

I am so thankful to be able to pray for them.  I have recently been reading and praying through a book called A Grandmother's Prayers by Kay Swatkowski that I purchased from Our Daily Bread Publishing.  It is so helpful as I pray for the grandkids almost daily. 


May we all do as:
   -Philippians 3:14 says and ..." press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in          Jesus Christ." 
   -Hebrews 12:1 says and ... "since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus...

May the Lord find us faithful
May His Word be our banner held high
May the Lord find us faithful
Ev'ry day though we live though we die.

Monday, August 15, 2022

Big batch of zucchini bread

 




This is a recipe I got from a cousin of my dads years ago.  It uses six cups of zucchini and makes a big batch.  This recipe can make four big loaves of bread or a bundt cake and two big loaves of bread.  It calls for 4 cups of cooked shredded peeled zucchini.  To get 4 cups of cooked zucchini, use about 6 cups of raw shredded zucchini cooked until it is tender in a pan on the stove. Drain off any water that is on the cooked zuchinni.  This is a fun version of zucchini bread as it also has bananas, pineapple, dates/raisins/or chocolate chips in it. 

Zucchini Bread

4 cups flour

4 teasp. baking soda

4 teasp. cinnamon

1 teasp. salt

3 cup sugar

1 cup dates, raisins, or chocolate chips - your choice

1 cup chopped nuts

Mix these ingredients together....................then

Make a deep well in the center of  the dry ingredients and add in order:

6 eggs

1 cup cooking oil

1 teasp. vanilla

1 cup bananas

1/4 cup crushed pineapple or applesauce

4 cups cooked shredded peeled zucchini

Mix all together well, pour in pans, let sit for 20 minutes, then bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 1 hour. After the bread is cooled it may be wrapped and frozen. 


Sunday, July 10, 2022

Vacuum advice from a wise friend....

A short blog about vacuums.....





A few years ago one of the older, wiser men at our church told me about vacuums and caring for them.  I have found what he told me to be true and useful. He was always annoyed that the church vacuum would be left unemptied.  

My friend said that it is best to empty the vacuum after each use.  This will prolong the life of the vacuum.

I have found that not only does one need to empty the bag but be sure to also clean the dust out of the filter or filters.  I recently emptied the canister but I didn't clean the filter. I began vacuuming but realized the vacuum was not picking up and it didn't have much suction strength. This was because I hadn't taken the time to also clean the filter.

Another thing that needs to be done is to inspect your vacuum before and after you use it.  I have found that several times my vacuums have been plugged up either at the canister or the brush head.  Sometimes you need to take the head apart and cut the hair out of it. Keep an eye on it to make sure it is turning.  Who wants to vacuum and not have the floor cleaned?

Our time is precious and we want to accomplish what we set out to do.  We also want to be good stewards of our tools. So, if you want to get the benefit of vacuuming and removing the debris from your floor be sure to start with a cleaned, inspected vacuum. 

Sunday, May 29, 2022

Use what is in your hand...

 




You've heard the saying, "Use what is in your hand."  Today I have a great example of someone doing this that I want to share with you.  

Our daughter, Missy, had expressed some interest to a lady in the community about learning to sew.  This dear lady whom Missy hardly knew called one day to say she had a machine for Missy, would like to give it to her, and would like to come out to show her how to use it.  She put a list together of supplies Missy would need to begin in this new endeavor and actually traveled twice from her home some thirty miles away to teach Missy the basics of sewing. This has been such a blessing to Missy!  She has run with this project and


created a little business for her family while staying home with the kids.

Saying all this to encourage you to 'use what is in your hand' to help others.  Look around.  What do you know that you can pass on to the younger generation?  One of our grandsons last year went to town to spend time with an older man who is good with wood tools.  They made a little race car.  He hopes to continue to get together with this wonderful Christian man again soon to learn more woodworking skills.

We can all help each other.  It doesn't matter what age you are.  You know something that can help someone whether you are a child, youth, parent, or older generation.  Looooook around - help someone! Use what God has given you. You will both be blessed!

IMPORTANT NEWS!!!!!! Some helpful advice for midlife mommas!

I am writing again about this issue since it is so important - that is the midlife crazies that some ladies get.  (Momma's sometimes you don't even know that you are there but just ask your family and they will tell you that you are!) I tell you it is true, we can get crazy and it is a BIG deal to us and everyone around us.  I want you to know you are not alone and there is help.  

When I first started writing this blog, I wrote an article about this. (April 15, 2020) I really struggled in my mid-forties with life.  I was either angry or crying! Someone was always in trouble and that someone was mostly my husband!

We don't like our life this way and it doesn't have to be this way.

I found some help.  It was life-saving! I began taking Plus by a company called Mannatech.  It may now be purchased online.  I took two of these pills a day for about eight years to get me through my crisis until I saw calm waters.  My husband, my family, and I were all very grateful for the change this product brought to me.

There are other products out there now that may also help.  This is just what helped me.  Find something that will help you rather than go it alone making life hard for you and your family!

I really think many marriages could be saved if the wives could get this help.  I wish every woman in their forties and early fifties knew about this product.  Please share with those you know who are struggling. Our families and marriages are so important!

AND there is light at the end of the tunnel!  I am now 68 and life is much happier!  Maybe once or twice a year I get that sinking feeling again.  I take a Plus and within an hour or so life is good again. Praise the Lord!! 

GET HELP IF YOU NEED IT!

Reach out to me if you'd like...I want you to be happy and successful!


Opening the dreaded trash bag!


 The other day I was trying to open up a new trash bag and I didn't have my glasses on. (Sometimes at the grocery store I have the same problem with their produce bags with my glasses on!)  I couldn't seem to figure out which end to open.  Neither end seemed to open!  Not a big deal at all but I realized a lot of life is like this.  We can't seem to 'see' what to do! 

I had just recently read about King Saul in I Samuel 13.  Saul had been given directions to go to Gilgal and to wait there for seven days until Samuel came to him there.  The people began being restless and fearful and started scattering. Saul couldn't 'see' what he should do. So Saul took it upon himself to offer the sacrifice at the temple - a job that was not his but Samuels.  He did not wait upon the Lord but rather took things into his own hands....he could not 'see' but rather became fearful, afraid, and disobedient.

I am writing this to us all to be faithful to our Lord,  to be obedient to our Lord, and to follow the directions He gives us in His Word!!

When we can't 'see' the future or the way, TRUST GOD!  OBEY HIM!

Patriarch?

 

It doesn't seem long ago at all that we were trying to decide what I would be called since I was becoming a grandparent.  Would it be Grammie?  Yes, at least that is what I thought until our oldest granddaughter named me Nanna.  So Nanna it has been! We now have 23 grandchildren calling me Nanna.  I love it!  BUT now I am no longer just Nanna and part of a bigger family but I am Nanna and the oldest of our own big family- the patriarch!

I realized the other day when I was struggling with some issues, that Gail and I were now the patriarchs of our own big, extended family.  I told God I wasn't really ready for this job and struggled with this a bit. After some time with God and some soul-searching, I surrendered to God and the fact that this was not my choice but it was God's design for His families. He has put us here.  He designed the family unit.  He has a purpose for each one of us.  He will give us the wisdom, knowledge, and strength to succeed! 

I know I must stick close by His side, seeking His ways, continually listening to the Holy Spirit whispering in my life moment by moment. I pray God will help guide me and I know He will!! He will do the same for you!

Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 

The other side of the fence....



 Sometimes we are on the other side of the fence... and the job inside the fence isn't ours. 

This picture was at a recent ranch rodeo.  Some of our family got to be on the team.  Some did not! 

I was recently talking with one of our daughters about this issue.  We are all busy people.  Don't be wasting your time doing things in life that you aren't called to do. Don't fight God wishing you were doing this or that.  DO what He calls you to do!!

God has you where you are to do jobs for Him.  Are you wanting to be somewhere else rather than being obedient to what he is calling you to do where you are?

 Look to see what God wants you to do and be obedient.  We waste much of our time and energy doing things we aren't supposed to be doing.  If the task is yours to do, God will be with you and will supply the energy and time.  

Philippians 4:13  I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.  Spoken by Paul as he served fearlessly and faithfully doing what God called him to do!


Changes have a purpose....


 This is a yucca blooming in my yard this spring.  It is beautiful now and for just a short time.  Then it will change.  Now it is beautiful ....



As it matures and changes, the flowers will fall off and pods will form that will be full of seeds. Then it changes from being beautiful to being like candy!  You see the cows absolutely love these pods full of seeds.  It is extremely hard to push a cow past one of these 'sweet treats' when you are out moving them. They literally run from yucca to yucca to eat these pods when they are in this state of their growth.  

Then the plant changes again.  




Seeds form in the pods.  They soon dry up and crack open so that new plants may form and grow. These black pods allow for new plants to grow. Though not the 'pretty' stage in the life of a yucca, they are the most useful.

Our lives are like these yucca plants.  Every stage had a purpose.  Every stage of life is different.  God has a purpose for you with each stage of life.  Some stages are definitely more beautiful and fun.  Some stages seem rather 'sweet'. Some stages of life don't look too good to us.  

Just a reminder that God is with you in each stage and EACH time in our lives has a purpose.  We may not bear as much seed if we don't go through the hard times. Change has a purpose!

Romans 8:28  And we know that all things work together for good for those who love Him, and are called according to His purpose."


Can you see 'it' in the distance?



 Springtime..... for some the favorite time of the year....for others the hardest time of the year.  

With spring comes baby calves, color in our world, much work, and many activities!  

Just writing this short blog today to remind each of you to take some time to rest.  It is a MUST!

Slow down for just a bit, spend time with the Lord, and rest your bodies! Seek Him and His will for you.  

Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. Take a nap.  Get a good night's sleep.

Then you will be able to 'see' the goal you are aiming for and obtain it!   

Exodus 33:14  The Lord replied, "My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."

Monday, April 18, 2022

Testimony of God's goodness

 


Since returning from our time in Arizona I have wanted to write this little testimony of our time there and God's goodness. 

As most of you know Gail loves to team rope.  He has only really started to compete in the last few years.  He has worked hard at improving and learning and he has had some great help along the way, for which we have been very grateful! 

This winter Gail sort of hit a slump.  He wasn't catching as many steers as he needed to.  Needless to say, he was disappointed to miss for his heelers and also to be putting money out for entries and not winning much back.  A time or two he 'thought' about packing up and heading back home to Colorado early.  But he didn't - he stayed in Arizona and practiced harder.  He asked for help and worked on what he learned. 

The NTR finals were the first week of March.  Gail roped in the ropings he was interested in early in the week and did well.  He did not win but he caught.  He came back in the short go and was able to rope well under the pressure.  We went back to our little 'home' there and gave God thanks that he caught and roped good even though he didn't win.  We felt like our prayers had been answered.

 A young man who had become a friend of Gail's asked Gail to rope with him on Saturday.  We had thought we'd be on our way home by then but stayed to rope one last time.  This was a pick one partner and draw a partner.  We had really hoped Gail and his young friend would do good.  Didn't end up that way but Gail and the draw partner ended up winning the roping.  They each won saddles and some entry fee money back.  

We really feel like God blessed Gail for his determination and hard work, for giving God the thanks regardless of not winning, and for staying to help his young friend out.  

All this to say:  WORK HARD, DON'T GIVE UP, BE HUMBLE, GET HELP, AND GIVE GOD THE GLORY! 


Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Give thanks always....




 Last night at Valley Cowboy Church, Trent preached a great sermon from Philippians 4:2-9.  I was excited to hear what he had to say about my favorite verses in the Bible. 

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness[d] be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

I have usually thought about these verses when I am anxious and I would be centered on that thought, quoting this verse to help me not be anxious. Last night I really heard him talk about the thanksgiving part. PRAY and BE THANKFUL!  Most of the time I do pray but I'm not thankful.  Rather I worry and pray and worry.  I was reminded to pray and then be thankful!!  I was committed to doing that and started a page in my prayer journal this morning for things I was thankful for.  I hope to add to it daily as I pray for others from my journal.  

Then I was asked to listen to Charles Stanley's devotional today.  It talked about staying young by staying in service to our Lord. He is in never done with us but always has work for us to do. This is what it had to say: 

Staying young while growing old begins with your mind. Never stop listening to the Father and learning from His Word. Allow godly thinking to shape your attitude. Be thankful, never stop laughing, and rejoice in your Lord. Above all, keep believing and loving Him with all your heart. 

May we keep serving, keep learning, keep thanking, keep laughing, and keep rejoicing!!

Sunday, April 3, 2022

Born for such a time as this.....





 This is a blog I have been thinking about writing since last October.  The theme is "You were born for such a time as this" or 'Do what God had called you to do where you are".  

Years ago as Gail and I started our family and the direction for our family, we made some decisions about where we felt God was calling us. We finished school, purchased our farm, and built our house.  Then there were lots of needs and things calling for our time and energy.  Gail and I began to be involved in community organizations. Soon there were opportunities to go up the ladder and to be more and more involved.  That is when we talked together and sought God for His calling for us.  We felt we needed to use our time to further God's kingdom and His work.  We still feel this is our calling. This is the calling we all have as believers.  God wants to use us where we are. 

God has put you here in this world at this time.  Can I encourage you to seek what God has for you to do at this time and the place where you are and the age you are?  There is no task too small or big. 

Sometimes I wish I was in Washington DC or Denver 'doing' for the Lord. Sometimes I wish I lived in another century as things now are pretty hard.  Then I am reminded that God did not call me to another land and God did not have me born in another century.   I need to serve where I am and NOW!  

Listen to the gentle nudgings of the Holy Spirit.  Be in constant fellowship with the Lord.  HE will direct your paths. God will show you what he wants from you for His kingdom.  The needs are many!


For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14

Monday, February 28, 2022

Praying for Ukraine




 The recent invasion by Russia into Ukraine has been heavy on our hearts and deeply questioned in our minds.  What are we to think of it?  Will evil win? Is God at work?

I read today in Psalms 44 about a time when the Hebrew people were attacked by their foes.  This was a time when the Hebrew people had been faithful to God and walked in His ways YET they were attacked and it looked as if the enemy was winning.  They were trying to look to God and understand and deal with their national tragedy. 

This Psalms said this about the wicked:

-the face of the Lord is against them -they are forgotten about and not remembered-affliction will slay them and they will be condemned

This Psalm said this about His people:

-they shall bless and praise the Lord continually - boast in the Lord, be humble, and be glad - magnify the Lord and exalt His name - seek the Lord and He will answer us and deliver us from our fears - those who look to Him will have radiant faces and will not be ashamed - when in humility we cry to God, He hears and saves - God will be around those who fear Him and will deliver them - for those who see that the Lord is good and take refuge in Him, they will be blessed - fear the Lord and have no lack - they were to learn the fear of God - they were to turn from evil and to do good and to seek peace - if they were righteous the Lord would hear their cry for help and deliver them out of all their trouble -  God would be near to the brokenhearted and save the crushed in spirit - they may have many afflictions but God will deliver them out of them all - they will not be broken - the Lord will redeem the life of His servants and none who take refuge in Him will be condemned

So  - we must focus on the things above that God has told us about His people when they are in trouble. There have always been wars throughout history.  Some of the wars were because the people had turned away from God, other times the wars were because of evil people wanting power and land. We do know some will die in the battle, some will be injured, some will have to go through rough times.  

Please pray for those in Ukraine.  There have become many new believers there since they became a free country on their own. Pray for the safety of the people and for their faith to be strong. Pray for the country to be strong and to remain free.  Pray for the other nations to know what to do in regard to the war. 

In the meantime, we will continue to praise Him, to live righteous lives, to look to Him and He WILL be with us.  We may or may not have victory now from the battle but in the end we will!!! Stay faithful! Heaven awaits!

Tuesday, February 22, 2022

Be strong...no half truths or wrong actions





The blog today is about telling half-truths and using our actions to harm others.

In Sunday school last week we started studying the book of Exodus. Chapter two tells of Moses killing the Egyptian whom he saw beating a Hebrew person.  It was good that Moses had compassion for the Hebrews, but it was not good that he killed the Egyptian man.  He acted on his own instinct rather than inquiring of God what to do. This started me thinking of all the times we saw people whom God was using to do His work.  Many of them did things on their own that they shouldn't have.  Abraham had amazing faith - enough to offer his own son as a sacrifice.  But when he was afraid he told a half-truth saying Sarah was his sister rather than his wife. Jacob lied to his father when he impersonated Esau. Then like Moses, he had to run for his life. Peter loved Jesus.  In the garden when Jesus was arrested. Peter sprang to life and cut off the guard's ear. Peter acted on his own instincts. 

My thought is this:  God wants to use us.  He loves us and has a plan for each of us.  May we draw very close to Him. May I encourage you today to do the right thing?  Don't let fear cause you to sin. Do not tell half-truths rather tell the truth straightforwardly. Don't let yourself take rash actions that would be against the will of God.  Look toward Him and LET Him take care of you.  HE WILL!

Psalm 33: 20-22 Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield.  For our heart is glad in Him, because we trust in his holy name. Let your steadfast love be upon us, even as we hope in you. 

Sunday, February 20, 2022

Jesus is Jesus - not someone else!




 I recently read a book called Do all Roads Lead to Heaven.  I want to share with you one idea learned from this book in terms of who Jesus is.  

Is Jesus the same as Allah or other human prophets or pagan deities?   Are they all the same person with different names?  Does it really matter which God or prophet you believe in? Will they all get you to heaven?

To illustrate this point an assertion was given by Dr. Robert Jeffress, author of the book. "Suppose the church had advertised all week that today's message will be delivered by Dr. David Jeremiah.  When you arrived, you looked at the bulletin and saw the title of the message with the name 'Dr. David Jeremiah' beside it.  But when the time came for the message I stood up and preached.  After the message you approach me and, trying to hide your disappointment, you say, 'Pastor, I thought Dr. Jeremiah was preaching today.  Is he ill?' And I reply, "Not at all.  Actually, David Jeremiah is just another name I occasionally use to refer to myself.  Other times I go by Chuck _______, Joe ______, or Jesse ____. But we are all the same person!"

Get the idea?  

Jesus may have similar characteristics to some of the other prophets but He is His own distinct Person. 

In the picture above, each person is their own distinct person.  We are who we are and the special names given to us by our parents' matter!

Jesus is Jesus.  He has his own characteristics! He cannot be called another name.  He is the only way to heaven!

These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. I John 5:13

Saturday, February 19, 2022

A new attitude of gratefulness for submission to my husband...






Goodness!! Submission to our husbands? Do you struggle with this?  Why should we be submissive?

Well, first off we know that the Bible commands it.  "Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord." The Greek verb submit means willingly putting oneself under someone or arranging under rank. 

After almost fifty years of marriage and 'happily?' obeying this command, I realized the other day how grateful I was for this command. I realized that by practicing submission I was given protection from God. I have stayed under my husband's authority and God's authority and I've been blessed beyond measure!!! I think by being submissive I have been shielded from doing things that I shouldn't have been doing.  I am sure I have failed miserably at times but generally speaking, I have tried to submit! 

I read a chapter in a book this week that listed four reasons why God set our world up like this - wife being submissive to husband.

Submitting to authority :

1.  teaches us obedience to God

2.  provides orderliness

3.  frees us from unnecessary worries

4.  gives us direction in life 

I can definitely support these principles.  I am thankful that by being submissive to Gail I have also grown closer to God, that our family has had order, that I can be under his authority and not worry as Gail leads, and that God will give us as a couple His direction. 

Submission isn't always easy.  As wives, we often don't think our husbands are going in the right direction.  But we must follow God and trust Him.  He is ALWAYS at work.  He will bless you if you do right and stay with Him following His directions. The blessings may not be immediate but they will come. 

.....just a little encouragement for you girls.....obedience brings big blessings!!

Suggested reading: Why on Earth Should we be Heavenly-Minded? Robert Jeffress


Thursday, February 10, 2022

Striving for being GODLY MINDED!



Job 28:28  "And He (God) said to man, 'Behold the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away for evil is understanding.'"

Then what? What do we do when we turn from evil?  

If then you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.  Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.  Col. 3:1,2

How do we be heavenly-minded? How do we set our minds on the things above?

Colossians goes on to say we need to have compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forgiveness, and above all else love.  We need to let the peace of Christ fill our hearts and we need to be thankful.  Christ's Word must dwell in us and we must share it with others.  Do everything we do in the name of Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

THAT is how we are to be HEAVENLY-MINDED!

When we keep focusing on the negative or evil our minds become trapped and enslaved.  Our brains actually rewire themselves to suit the information you feed into them. If it is bad information put in then our brain focuses on bad information.  But when we focus on Christ and His Word we have freedom and purpose. This good information makes it easier for our brains to focus on the good. This kind of focus takes time and self-determination but it is what God wants from us.  

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.  What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me - practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.  Philippians 4:8,9

I know from my experience in life that this is not always easy.  Sometimes others hurt us deeply - our friends, family members, or our spouse may sever their ties with us.  Someone evil may hurt us or our family in some way. A drunk driver may cause a wreck.  Someone on drugs may kill a loved one. There may be a war. There is MUCH evil in the world. It is not always easy to focus on God and His ways BUT WE MUST!

Work at it with all your strength and might.  The Holy Spirit will be there to help you!  You can have victory and peace!



From Job: Praise God Through Your Suffering

 I recently finished reading the book of Job.  These ideas came to me as I read the scripture and the commentary on it. 

Job suffered terribly after God allowed Satan to hurt him.  He was in terrible anguish, not only from his physical pain but also from losing his children and all his possessions.  Job was a righteous and Godly man.  He was in general without sin. When he was hurting though he cried out to God and complained against God.

In Job 36 we read of a speech given by Ehihu.  He had some valid points against Job for complaining. Ehihu said God does at times use suffering to chasten and bring repentance.  BUT God also uses suffering to open men's ears and to call men to himself. Because Job kept complaining as he suffered, he was sinning rather than drawing nearer and nearer to God during his suffering. Job should not have been complaining but rather he needed to see God in his suffering and worship him. 

At the end of Job in chapter 40, Job said "I am guilty!" He knew he was in trouble for finding fault with God. He had been insisting that God give him an explanation for what was going on in his life. My Bible commentary said Job should not have thought God unjust and he should not have insisted on his own understanding. It said 'Job needed to admit his weakness, inferiority, and ability to even try to figure out God's infinite mind.  God's wisdom was so superior, his sovereign control of everything so complete, that this was all Job needed to know. '  The commentary also said, "The great lesson of Job was: Trust sovereign God when you can't understand why things go badly in life."

This is a reminder for me and you to examine ourselves when we are suffering.

Is this suffering because of sin in our lives? Then we'd best repent and turn from our wicked ways.

Is God using the suffering to draw us closer to Him? If this is the case, may we trust in His grace, see God while we are suffering, and worship Him! 

I know this is easier said than done but may we with all our might worship and glorify our Lord and Savior at all times! Amen!


Dealing with criticism and succeeding....

 I have always known the old saying, "the only person who doesn't make a mistake or get in trouble is the person who does nothing at all."  I have often reminded Gail of this when something he has done with good intent doesn't turn out like he wanted it to - when failure comes or criticism from others. I recently wrote about doing the right thing. This is a follow up and continuation of 'doing the right thing' and being victorious thru criticism

The ideas for this blog today come again from Dr. Robert Jeffress' Daily Devotional. Jeffress wrote several devotions on criticism.  I hope to recap to you what he said:

- if you have a dream, you will experience opposition and the greater your goal or dream, the greater your opposition.  Are you trying to do the right thing and live out God's will for your life?  You will get criticised.

- discern the motive of the critic, seek God to discern the cause of the criticism.  Pv. 27:6 Is the critic a friend tying to help you?  Is there truth in what they are telling you? Do you need to heed his criticism? OR maybe the critic is trying to cause harm.  Is there insecurity or jealousy on the part of the critic? Or look deeper into the critics life and see if he is struggling with somethings himself. Is he hurting and struggling with something? Always pray for them and then see if you can help in someway. IF you discern they are trying to harm you, then you are probably in the middle of a spiritual war and Satan is using them to try to harm you. Rev. 12:10

-understand your critic will try to attack you personally, will try to stop you from accomplishing your goal, and may attack your motive

-to gain victory:discern the cause for the criticism, deliver your critic to God, and keep moving forward to fulfill your God-given goal.  

- sometimes you answer your critics and sometimes you just don't cast your pearls before swine (waste your wisdom). When you answer them make sure you speak softly and slowly so as to put the fire out rather than stir it up.

- the goal of criticism is destruction. The greater your goal is, the greater the criticism.  If you are getting more and more criticism, you can probably know you are in the middle of God's will!! 



When others try to discourage you....keep focused on the goal....

 This is a follow-up to the blog on 'Do the Right Thing" which I published last.  I was visiting with two different people after that blog who were struggling with opposition from others.  I just had recently read a few devotionals about Nehemiah and the opposition he was receiving as he was leading the Jewish people to rebuild the wall. The daily devotional by Robert Jeffress and Pathway to Victory listed four principles for handling difficult people.

1.  practice prayer - how much time are you spending in prayer about this person or situation? "There are a lot of things you can do after you pray, but you can do nothing until you've prayed."

2.  exercise patience - do the right thing and what you should do, while waiting on God to do what only He can do.

3.  recognize when God begins to open the door and you can make your next move - make the request of what you need from them to stop this opposition or reconcile the problem

4.  expect more problems - whenever you have a God-given dream or goal, don't be surprised when difficulty comes. This is not a sign you are outside of God's will; it may be an indication that you are right in the middle of God's will

Saturday, February 5, 2022

A way of escape....




When our girls were growing up we had a special verse we encouraged them to memorize that we felt would help them get through their teen-age years with victory.  This verse is a good one for all of us - as it encourages us to get through life without succumbing to temptation or sin.

I Corinthians 10:13  No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man.  God is faithful, and HE will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide a way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. 

Let's look at it piece by piece:

- what you are facing in life is nothing new.  Others have also faced what is looking you in the face.

- God is there with you.  He won't let you be faced with more than you can bear.

- there is ALWAYS a way of escape.  LOOK for a way to get away from the tempation.  This is the KEY!!!  Do you need to leave the place you are in?  the company you are with? what you are watching on TV or the computer?  Use the way of escape and stay in close fellowship with your Savior!

Do the right thing....

😡😠😟😞😕

Short idea and blog today:

Over the past few years, we have gone through some trials.  One thing we gleaned from them was this principle:

    DO THE RIGHT THING!

When you are confronted by someone who is not treating you very nicely, or has done something wrong to you, maybe said something mean to you...... don't retaliate.  Rather:

    DO THE RIGHT THING

I was reminded of this principle today when I was reading through Job.

Job 17:9 Yet the righteous holds to his way,

and he who has clean hands grows stronger and stronger.

God will bless you when you do the right things, when you make the right choices, when you strive for righteous.  You WILL grow stronger and stronger. 

Thursday, February 3, 2022

God's will...which road?



I have read several books about knowing the will of God in our lives.  Today I want to share with you a list that will help you in knowing how to know God's will.  I also want to share a little bit of 'our story' in implementing this list. 

There are several processes to go through in knowing God's will for a situation or decision:

1. Meditate on scripture

2. Listen to God in prayer

3. Evaluate circumstances

4. Discover our desires and see if those desires are in line with God's desires

5. Seek counsel

6.  Trust in God's sovereignty

Don't make a decision using only one of the criteria above.  Rather incorporate all the areas into your decision-making. 


***************

In 1994 we felt God was calling us to move so that we could be more involved in ministry.  We visited with our pastor.  He basically ran through the list above and asked us if we had examined all the areas.  We said we had and still felt called to move. He told us to go ahead and follow God's leading. So we started the process of looking at other ranches.  We looked at three that we liked and thought would work for ministry. But with each one when we were ready to proceed, the door closed - the ranch was already sold or taken off the market.  We then felt God wanted us to wait.  Maybe our idea was right but the timing was off.  So we waited.... We received his blessings in many ways. We were content to be where God had us.  We tried to serve Him where we were.  

After ten years, we felt the call again to move.  Again, we went through the list above seeking God's will. We felt we were to go ahead.  We began looking at ranches and this time we found a ranch that would work for us.  We put in an offer.  We were anxious but trusted the Lord.  The sellers of the ranch were to accept our offer by 4:00 on a set day.  At 3:50 they called and they had another offer for the ranch.  Would we give them another hour to decide which offer they were going to accept? We said we would.  It was a long hour for us but we knew it was in God's hands.  The purchase would come about if it was God's will. They called back and accepted our offer and the moving process was started.  That is how we came to live where we now do! We felt God's calling, sought His will, trusted His timing, and He was faithful!




The lighter side....be like a dog...be happy!


 Just a quick blog to share a thought I've had for a long time.   I think we should be more like dogs and be happy!!!

This is my dog, Uno.  He is always so happy to see me.  He doesn't care if it has been a month since I've been home or if I just went inside and came back out, he is happy to see me!

Years ago we had a nice cattle dog.  He often went with Gail in the pick-up.  Well, one time he went with Gail and somehow got left in the pickup cab.  We wondered where he went!  The next day we went to get in the pickup and there he was.  Happy and excited to see us!!!

Well.... what if that was you?  Would you have been happy?  

That's why we need to be more like dogs!!

Thursday, January 27, 2022

Sometimes we just need to rest!!

 

A quick thought for you today..... sometimes we just need to rest!!
In the book of Nehemiah we saw that the Israelites had grown weary from working hard to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem.  They were fatigued and worn out. My devotional book by Robert Jeffress said: "The Israelites were discouraged, first of all, because they were weary.  They had spent twenty-six days working on the wall, and Nehemiah said they were 'failing'. In Hebrews that word means stumbling.  They were staggering.  They were worn out.  ...Fatigue brings fear and a distorted perspective of reality."

Once in a while, we need to rest.  If you can realize this before your meltdown you will be better off.  Occasionally I tell my daughters you are just tired and need to rest.  Take a nap and everything will be ok. We all get tired and then we don't perform our tasks as well as we should. We don't handle stress well. For example, as a mom, if get you too tired you tend to get grouchy and don't handle life as well as you should.  You know the saying: If momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!! Realize this and take a quick rest before you say or do something you shouldn't to your kids or husband. 

My mom used to put her feet on the couch and lay on the floor.  Worked great for a quick nap.  I have done the same many times.  You won't sleep too long in this position but will get a quick rest and be ready to go again!

Also moms - make sure your kids are rested.  Our little two-year-old granddaughter was being a real jewel one morning when I kept her.  About 11:00 she fell apart and started misbehaving.  She was just tired and needed to rest.  So when things start to fall apart with your kids, let them rest or nap and they will be much easier to deal with.

********************************

Little Lucile went to rest and decided she needed her jammies on over her clothes!! Those grandbabies are so much fun!!


Monday, January 24, 2022

Don't throw a fit....God cares for you!

Fun for today!!!!  Sometimes we are going through life just having a great time!! All is well!!

We are looking around - enjoying everything!



Then God says, "No" and we throw a fit!

Just know He cares and loves us and shows us His compassion!!

 Deut. 8:5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the Lord your God disciplines you.