CHRISTMAS COMFORT

We had another good friend pass away on Friday. He was the Church Administrator the 12 1/2  years we served at First Baptist Church here in Roanoke.  It is so hard to lose a loved one, especially this close to Christmas.  His name was Chip Vail.  Please pray for his dear wife, Paula and their two grown children, Elizabeth and Charles and his family.  Even though we are saddened at his loss we rejoice for him for we know he will be celebrating Christmas with his precious Lord and Savior!  Here is a poem I wrote years ago for another friend who had lost her beloved husband that year.  A regular Christmas card just did not seem right to send to her, so I penned this poem and have shared it with others who have lost someone close during the year.  Perhaps it will comfort one of you during this season that should be full of joy!

CHRISTMAS COMFORT

I know your heart is saddened and you feel a heavy load,
but may you find comfort in knowing your loved one is singing and dancing
down the streets of gold.

There are rows and rows of angels, with our loved ones in between
and there is indescribable beauty, like we've never seen.

The KING'S orchestra is playing a heavenly symphony, and your loved one has a part!
Imagine the majestic sound of the music and let it bring joy to your heart.

There is a glorious celebration in heaven, and the festivities have just begun.
Your loved one and the angels are celebrating,
the birthday of God's Holy Son!!!

Blessings to each of you today!

PRIORITIES

After the recent death of my husband's 1st cousin, age 64 who was diagnosed with a brain tumor 7 months ago and the senseless shooting of a Va. Tech police officer two days ago, I am reminded of the brevity of our lives here on earth.  We never know if we will be here tomorrow.  That is why it is so important for us to keep our priorities straight.  During this busy Christmas season, let's try to focus on telling others about Christ, loving and spending as much time as possible with family and friends, and doing good to help others.  I'm guilty of getting too busy trying to do too much and not taking the time to really focus on the things that are the most important.  Have a wonderful day and tell someone you love them today!

'THE DAYS OF OUR LIVES"

Since I just celebrated my birthday,yesterday, I am more aware of the fact that "time waits for no one".  Looking back at pix from last year compared to this year-I can see how much older I look.  I was blessed to have lunch at a local tea room with my friend/neighbor and her 19 yr. old daughter.  That night my sweet hubby took me out for a wonderful dinner, then I was treated to a "combined" birthday party with cake and ice cream by another neighbor/friend for me and her l7 year old daughter.  I call her "my little twin" since we have the same birthday.  Everytime I realize I am 40 years older than her, I am made keenly aware of how old I'm getting!  It seems like yesterday that those two sweet girls were toddlers. 

When I reflect on all of this, I am convicted to use what time God gives me on this earth more wisely.  I tend to waste alot of time (mostly on Facebook these days, LOL!).  I need to spend more time reading God's word and books that will make me stronger spiritually.  Also, I need to be doing more for others.  I need to spend more time with family and friends and go places I've always intended to go.

The word "days" appears more than 500 times in Scripture-did you know that?  Let's make the most of the days God has given us!

"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."  Psalm  118:24

CONNECTED OR DISCONNECTED?

I want to start out by giving praise to the Lord. After 3 months, my stomach is finally doing much better and I can finally eat and have more energy! I just read about having connections with other women in your church. Do you all feel connected to the other women in your church? If not, why? I'd love to hear some feedback from you on this subject!

Here is another resource for MW's only: contagiousjoy4him.com. Check it out.

I look forward to hearing some comments from you ladies! Have a great day!

PRAYER

Again, I apologize for taking so long to write anything. I am still dealing with gastrointestinal issues and lack of energy. I would like to ask each of you to please lift me up in prayer that I may soon be well and also for strength, patience, and calmness as I wait for healing.

The Lord wants us to pray for each other. I would really like for some of you to share any prayer requests you may have at this time with all of us on this blog.
The best thing we can do to help and encourage each other is to lift each other up in prayer, especially when there's a special need.

"The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer". 1 Peter 3:12

"Know that the Lord has set apart the godly for himself: the Lord will hear when I call to him." Psalm 4:3


"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" Matthew 7:9-11

"O you who hear prayer, to you all men will come..You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness, O God our Savior." Psalm 65: 2,5

THE LORD HEARS OUR PRAYERS, SO LET US BE FAITHFUL TO PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER. I hope some of you will respond with your requests on this post.

Rest

Sorry it's been so long since I wrote anything. I got a sinus infection the middle of June and the 2nd round of antibiotics messed up my stomach. I have not felt well since then. I would appreciate your prayers. I know many of you are extremely busy at your churches this summer, along with all your other responsibilities. This devotional from Wisdom Hunters is very good and I wanted to share it with you. Be sure to take time to rest and also to refresh your spirit. (Be sure and share this with your husbands, I'm sure they need to hear it,too!)

Resting Place


“God will speak to this people, to whom he said, “This is the resting place, let the weary rest”; and, “This is the place of repose”—but they would not listen. Isaiah 28:11b-12

Everyone needs a place to rest, a time to rejuvenate and restore your soul. A soul without rest is vulnerable to doubt, disease, and dread. Without soul care, you risk being ineffective for the long term. So, allow your soul to catch up with your activity through rest. A restless soul loses hope and perspective.

Stop right now and take an audit of your soul. Is it strung out and anxious? If so, rearrange your schedule for rest before it rearranges you. A non-restful pace is unsustainable, and a restful place is necessary to persevere. Do not fall for the false feeling that activity somehow equals progress or success. Without rest, you are going nowhere fast. If you intensify the pace, you are going nowhere, faster.

Rest allows you to recalibrate your priorities and replenish your cistern of creativity. Your work rhythms may require a day with no scheduled appointments. Indeed, each resting place looks different, depending on your need. For example, your resting place may be the quiet screened porch, where you relax with a cup of coffee and a good book.

For someone else, a resting place may be a comfortable couch, where they nap to the steady beat of raindrops pelting the rooftop. It can be the park where you walk with your best friend, a secluded drive in the countryside, or an adventurous exploration of the great Pacific Northwest. Whether your resting place is the beach, the mountains, or in front of a good movie, make time to engage with it. God speaks to you in your place of rest. This is one of His favorite spots to shape your soul.

Furthermore, your resting place allows you to resist temptation. Fatigue causes you to stumble and fall through life. If you are working through exhaustion, you may be missing God. A lethargic life struggles to listen to the Lord, and a heart worn down from weariness has a hard time hearing His voice. A depleted spirit is not primed for discernment, and decision-making during duress can be dreadful.

Therefore, go away to a resting place. Find God and find yourself under the canopy of His creation. A resting place is your protection from yourself, from evil influences, and from lost perspective. Above all else, your resting place reveals God in a refreshing way. His program takes on a new priority in His place of rest. Your confidence is resurrected. Your trust takes on a new level of intensity. Your patience leads to a deeper understanding of what it means to wait on the Lord.

A resting place is for your sake and His. It is necessary to experience God’s very best for you and your family. Discover your resting place in prayer, and go there often. Repentance follows rest, and robust relationships result from rest. Your best and most creative ideas emerge from relaxed meditation on your Master. Wisdom resides in rest.

Taken from the July 17th reading in the 365-day devotional book, Seeking Daily the Heart of God.

Additional Resource: eBooks- Wisdom for Fathers , Wisdom For Mothers, Wisdom for Graduates, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God… click here: http://bit.ly/jHlNX0

Additional Resource: Hard copy of the 365 day devotional: Seeking Daily the Heart of God and the 90-day devotional Infusion… click here: http://bit.ly/bQHNIE

Releasing on Labor Day the 90-day devotional book, Seeking God in the Psalms.

Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional
and two devotional books, Infusion and
Seeking Daily the Heart of God

BOOKS FOR MW'S

Here are two books for MW's that Rachael Lovingood recommends (she spoke at the VBMB Leadership "Gathering" recently): A VIEW FROM THE PEW - by Susie Hawkins and
TEN THINGS EVERY MINISTER'S WIFE SHOULD KNOW - by Jenna Floyd.

I'd love to know if any of you have read either of these books or can recommend other books to share with all the MW's out there!

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13)

HAVE A HAPPY DAY AND I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING SOME BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS FROM YOU ALL!!!

DO NOT WORRY-GOD WILL PROVIDE!

Since yesterday was Father's Day, I've been thinking a lot about my father. He passed away 21 years ago but I still miss him so much. He worked extremely hard, loved his family, and was generous toward others. Growing up, I always felt safe and secure and never worried about having all my needs provided.

As an adult, I confess there have been times when I've worried about having enough to provide for our needs. As MW's, I feel sure many of you have worried about this same thing. Ministers rely on the contributions of their churches for their salaries and benefits. Churches can also call a new pastor and decide to let their old staff go. Sometimes they decide to ask a pastor to leave even though they have done nothing wrong. I know a MW who is going through this right now. Please pray for her and her family. Sadly, churches are made up of flawed humans and even though you would expect them to treat Ministers better than a secular business would, this is not always the case.

We should not lose heart,though. Just as I could always depend on my earthly father to provide for my needs, even more so-we can depend on our Heavenly Father to provide for us. "Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?" (Luke 11:11-13) and in Matthew 6:25-27 we are told "therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air, they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?"

When you start to worry-remember,your Heavenly Father has your back! He will provide.

WHO ARE YOU, REALLY?

In the book, In Our Shoes, by Rachel Lovingood and Jennifer Landrith, they suggest trying to describe yourself without using the words daughter, wife, or mom. (take time to do this). Is this hard for you to do? Sometimes we can lose "our" identity because we're too busy being what someone else needs or wants us to be. In their book, they ask "Do you ever hide the real you behind your husband's job description or your children's accomplishments?" These are tough questions to ask and think about, aren't they!

Now, think about these words from their book: " We are all the Designer's originals, created differently to fulfill specific purposes. Remember that you as a ministry wife-and as a woman, for that matter-were created for a purpose that's yours alone.
Strive to be the woman God designed you to be, trusting that He knows exactly what He is doing."

Pray and ponder these thoughts today and see what God may show you.

BEAUTY AROUND US

I was very blessed to have spent our 35th wedding anniversary in Hawaii. Words cannot begin to describe the beauty of those islands. The beaches, mountains, craters, waterfalls, and flowers were absolutely gorgeous. How anyone can see these magnificent creations and not believe in our God is beyond me. "Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place and let dry ground appear. And it was so. God called the dry ground land, and the gathered waters he called seas. And God saw that it was good." (Gen. 1:9-10)

I was in total awe of the scenery I was fortunate to see. Let's remember to thank God each day for the majesty and wonder of his creation. Whether it's a beach in Maui or a bright, red cardinal in your own backyard, give thanks. Thank him for eyes to see magnificent flowers and ears to hear the cheerful chirping of birds. Give thanks for the ability to smell the luscious aroma of flowers. We get so busy with our day to day lives and with our service in the church that we forget to notice the beauty of creation all around us everyday. "For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him."
(1 Col. 16)

So let's all remember to take time to "stop and smell the roses" and to give thanks to our loving Father who blessed us with the beauty he created for us. Have a great week!

MINISTERING TOGETHER

My husband and I will celebrate our 35th Anniversary this Saturday. I am so blessed and thankful for my wonderful husband and the years we've had together. I graduated from college on a Sunday and we married the following Friday. (This is NOT something I would recommend-too much stress and very tiring trying to finish everything and plan a wedding.) Three months later, we moved 2 hrs. from my hometown to go to Louisville for him to start seminary. It was alot to adjust to all at once. Four months later Gary was called to be part-time Youth Minister at a small, rural church about 45 min. away. We were both so excited and couldn't wait to get started in ministry. There were challenges during the time we served there but there were also blessings and we were thankful for the opportunity to be on a church staff and minister. We still keep in touch with some of the folks from that first church today.

We have served in several churches in several states over the past 34+ years and now have a ministry through the Va. Baptist Mission Bd. There have been times when my husband was ready to leave the ministry and there have been times when I've wanted him to leave, but thankfully never at the same time. We both knew God had called both of us to ministry. He has seen us through the bad times and blessed us with great times. We have dear friends in many places and special memories we would never had if we had not gone into ministry and hopefully we have made a difference in some of the lives we've touched.

We know from experience that "if God brings you to it, He will bring you through it".
I personally believe that Ministers' Wives are called by God to be MW's. There are those that may disagree, but I think it has to be something you are called to do by God in order for your marriage and your ministry to survive. It is a shared "vocation". Some feel called to be more involved in their husband's ministry than others, but all need to be supportive and want to be a part of what God is doing in their church or other area of ministry. Don't feel like you have to do everything and that you can never say no. I'm just saying you are a team and God has called you to play the "position" he has assigned you to. Use the gifts you have been given.

My prayer for each of you is that you won't give up during the tough times and will be able to celebrate 34+ years in ministry one day and even more.

BOOK RECOMMENDATION

Had a great week-end at the Leadership Gathering at Eagle Eyrie. I met some Minister's Wives I didn't know and enjoyed talking with them. We had great sessions just for MW's led by Rachel Lovingood. She's a wonderful speaker, a MW, and writer.
I encourage you to get her book: "In Our Shoes". It's a Bible Study written specifically for MW's. It's published by Lifeway Press. For all of you who are mother's - HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

MIXED EMOTIONS

Today was a day full of mixed emotions. I began by wishing my precious hubby a Happy Birthday. Then we dressed and headed off to the funeral for a friend/co-worker's wife. Her name was Susan Stratton and she corageously battled cancer for 11 long years. I regret I never met her personally. She sounded like a very special,talented, loving, giving, yet independent spirited woman. She started a week-day pre-school at her church and directed it. She also loved growing and arranging flowers. She was dedicated to her husband and daughters. When the Lord led her husband to go to work for the Va. Baptist Mission Bd., she was willing to leave her beloved church family and home and Her preschool because she felt that's where the Lord wanted them. She served faithfully in her new church home after that even though battling the cancer. She left this world on Good Friday and was able to bask in the glory of her beloved God on Easter Sunday. Her struggle was over. I feel relief and joy for her, yet I am saddened for her husband and children who are left to go on without the lady they loved so much. After we made the 3 hr. drive home we switched gears and went into celebration mode. We changed clothes as if this somehow helped shed the sadness and help us dress-up in new emotions. Then we went to one of our favorite restaurants for a lovely dinner and complementary Baked Alaska. The waiter even "attempted" to sing a shortened version of Happy Birthday. There were cards and lots of e-mails and messages when we got home. Cards and Presents were opened and a phone call from his "little brother" helped to top off the birthday celebration. As you might imagine, it was hard to celebrate a birthday when you've just witnessed a death. One thing Susan learned during her long struggle was to enjoy each day as if it were your last. She would have wanted us to celebrate her being with Jesus and she'd want us to celebrate Gary's birthday,too. As humans we face a myriad of emotions each day, some up, some down, some we're not even sure what they are. It's hard to flip a switch and go from sad to happy. However, we know the Lord wants us to celebrate the lives of his children-those who have just been born, those who have just grown a year older, and also those who have just gone to spend a pain-free, tear-free, glorious eternity with their Lord and King. It was hard to totally, mentally separate the two events today but I thank Jesus for giving me another year with my beloved husband and I thank God for letting me get to know Susan through her home-going celebration service. Please continue to pray for her husband, Eddie, and their two daughters in the days to come. Live each day to it's fullest!

On My Father's Side by The Barn Again Gang

On My Father's Side by The Barn Again Gang

"Jesus offered Himself to His tormentors as His adversaries plotted and schemed to bring Him down. They wanted to put Jesus on display as a mad man. If He were truly God, they reasoned, He would not allow this injustice to occur. However, the Creator allowed His creation to beat and bludgeon His only Son. Christ’s back was bruised and beaten for your sake. His ribs were whipped with sharp bits of rock that dug into His flesh indiscriminately. These mob-motivated men inflicted inhumane lashes across His body; facial hair was torn from His flesh. He did not hide his face or scowl back.

Rather, with a gaze up to heaven, as if to say, “Father this is for your glory,” He displayed a grim face of grace. This face of forgiveness was baptized in the sick spit of sinful man. They desecrated His friendly face with determined drool. The frenzy of the crowd took over with verbal lashes. These ungrateful sinners beat Him down emotionally and mentally, as well as physically. It was a horrific sight, similar to a one man concentration camp. But Jesus submitted to this suffering only because He first submitted to God. Ironically, those committing these hideous crimes were the very ones who could benefit from its results. They could have embrace His atonement for sin and receive His resurrected life.

Jesus carried this burden on your behalf and that of all mankind. It was not an exercise in how much pain could be endured by one person. It was pure love, as Jesus loved you all the way to the cross. “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Without the love of God, the events at the cross would not have happened. The dreadful day’s activities would have culminated in the death of just another good man. Death would have been the end." (Boyd Bailey)

Let's all ponder these thoughts today as we prepare to celebrate tomorrow!

GOOD FRIDAY

"The greatest man in history, named Jesus, had no servants, yet they called him Master. Had no degree, yet they called him Teacher. Had no medicines, yet they called him Healer. He had no army, yet kings feared Him. He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world. He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him..... He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today!!" Good Friday seems like such an odd name for the day our Lord suffered so much for our sins yet we know it was good because if He had not died for us we would never be able to spend eternity with our Heavenly Father. However, we must concentrate on the pain and suffering of Jesus in order to really appreciate and understand what He did for us. Take time to visualize the torture and agony Christ endured for you today and give him thanks for it.

COMFORTING WORDS

During this Holy Week as I read the accounts of what Jesus and his Disciples went through, different things "pop out" at me. In John 13, Jesus tells his Disciples that one of them will betray him. Then, he tells Peter he will deny knowing him.
They did not understand yet what was going to happen to Jesus or where he was going but they were confused and scared and wanted to go with him. What really touched me, though, was in John 14, where Jesus tries to comfort his Disciples. He says: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going." (John 14:1-4) Then He promises to send them the Holy Spirit to be with them and in them. In verse 27 he says "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Jesus was about to be betrayed by one of his closest followers, denied by another then handed over to die a painful death. However, his concern was for his Disciples. Instead of seeking their comfort He is the one trying to encourage and comfort them. Would we do the same in this situation? What a wonderful Lord we have. Even when we face our own trials, let's follow Jesus' example and still try to be a comforter and encourager to others. May you feel His peace today!

PLOTTING AND BETRAYAL

Have you ever been in a situation where others were plotting against you in some way?
Perhaps it was your husband they were plotting against. We were in a church situation where a new preacher had arrived and immediately began criticizing everything the large, long-term staff (which included my husband)had been doing.
Everyone in the church had been so pleased and encouraging to the staff during the time they kept the church going after our long-term pastor has retired. For two years they continued to move forward as much as possible and we even had people joining the church, even without a pastor. Suddenly, with the arrival of this new preacher, things began to change. He began to surround himself with a corp of followers (mostly from the search committee who had recommended him). It was almost like he had some kind of strange power over them. People who had been so supportive of the staff and the vision of the long-range planning committee, suddenly were willing to believe whatever this "stranger" said even if it was not the same as what he had said to a staff member. They would do whateve he wanted them to do. He was deceitful behind closed doors and had members basically blackballed if they questioned him. He was not the person some in the congregation thought he was. He was cruel to the staff and when it finally got so bad that some of them spoke to church leaders they trusted regarding some of the "plotting" going on against them and to change certain things and make it look like some of these changes came from the staff and not from him we got a mixed response. Some were very upset and approached him. He denied it or just stared at them or said the staff member misunderstood. Then they were treated badly by him and others of his followers. Some were upset but didn't want to get involved. Others were totally oblivious to it all. Eventually staff and their families began to feel they were the enemy by his followers and so did anyone who disagreed with him or his treatment of the staff. Close friends no longer spoke or trusted each other. It was one of the most painful times of our lives. We felt betrayed and "stabbed in the back" by some of those who had been closest to us for over 12 years. One by one the staff all left and so did large numbers of church members. A few years later, the preacher who caused all this pain and division was advised he needed to resign or he was soon going to be asked to leave. Some had come to see him for what he really was. Others just saw how the church had declined. Many Ministers' families were hurt and many friendships destroyed and have not been restored years later. This experience gives me an inkling of how Jesus must have felt during his last week on earth. There were those plotting against him. One of his own disciples betrayed him. The crowds that cheered Hosanna as he entered Jerusalem quickly changed to chanting Crucify Him and even chose to let a convicted murderer go and have Jesus killed. I hope you never have to experience the pain we did in that church but if you ever go through something similar, know that your Lord and Savior went through something worse and later gave his life for you because of his Love for you. He knows any pain or suffering or trial you may have gone through or are going through and He will see you through it. Let's all remember the great love that Jesus showed to us by allowing them to crucify him that we may be forgiven. Hosanna to our King!

OVERWHELMING NEEDS VS. YOUR WELL-BEING

As a minister's wife, it is easy to get overwhelmed and depressed by all the sicknesses, deaths, marital problems, job losses, surgeries and other needs in your church family. You hear of all the prayer requests on Sun. and Wed. and also get them through e-mails or calls to your home. Plus, you know of many concerns and needs in your own family or those of your own friends who are not in your church.
Prayer is wonderful and we should spend as much time as we can praying for the needs of others. However, don't let it drag you down. I often find myself praying when I lay down to go to sleep at night. I have to make myself limit this time of prayer and then force myself to think of more pleasant things or I can't go to sleep. I read somewhere that you should never watch the 11:00 news then try to go to sleep.
It is hard to fall asleep when you have troubling or sad thoughts on your mind.
Do your serious praying at another time during the day. If you find yourself being drug down by all the needs, take time to do something to help lift your spirits.
Watch some cartoons or a funny movie. Read an uplifting inspirational book or listen to upbeat, cheerful music. Take a walk or get some exercise. With warm weather coming, you can get outside and plant some flowers. Going to a garden center and just looking at all the gorgeous flowers lifts my spirits. Invite a fun friend to lunch or for coffee. Keep on praying but take care of yourself,too.

HAPPY SUNDAY!

Happy Sunday! We had a good day of worship with communion at our church today. It was a beautiful, sunny and fairly warm day. I am so thankful to live in a country where we are free to worship and not have to worry about being persecuted for our faith. We may be harrassed or ridiculed but we don't have to worry about being tortured or killed for our faith. Remember to pray for those believers who worship our Lord at risk to their own lives. I tend to take for granted the freedom to just get up and drive to church on Sunday and worship with my church family. When you are tired or hurried and rushed or trying to get kids dressed and out the door on Sunday morning, think about the blessing of our freedom. Here is a quote from Pope John Paul II that I saw today that I really liked and thought I'd share with you.
"Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people and Hallelujah is our song". Have a great week!

WHY DO CHRISTIANS SUFFER?

Sorry,it's been so long since I posted anything. We've been on the road alot lately. It seems more than a coincedence that I've had several different people asking me about suffering just in the past couple of weeks. One felt that God was making them suffer and was very angry. Another was wondering if God uses suffering to bring someone to Christ. Others just pondered the question of why God allows Christians to suffer and several of these had been doing some pretty strong suffering. I regret to say, I do not have the answer. I think this is one of those mysteries of God that we as humans may not be able to totally comprehend. However, I have been doing some reading and seeking some answers. One article I read was by Bill Bright, the founder of Campus Crusade for Christ. Here is a brief synopsis of his article.
1) SUFFERING PRODUCES TRAINING IN OBEDIENCE.
2) SUFFERING PRODUCES REFINEMENT OF YOUR CHARACTER.
3) SUFFERING PRODUCES INTIMACY WITH YOUR COMPASSIONATE GOD & SAVIOR.
4) SUFFERING PRODUCES UNDERSTANDING OF THE HURTS OF OTHERS.
5) SUFFERING PRODUCES MATURITY FOR MINISTERING TO OTHERS.
6) SUFFERING PRODUCES PERSEVERANCE IN DIFFICULT TIMES.
7) GOD TURNS HARDSHIPS INTO BLESSINGS.
8) GOD GIVES PEACE IN THE MIDST OF ADVERSITY.
9) SUFFERING RESULTS IN FUTURE GLORY.
10 YOU ARE MORE THAN A CONQUEROR.
11)GOD WILL HELP YOU TO TRIUMPH.
12)JESUS UNDERSTANDS YOUR SUFFERING.
13)GOD IS ALWAYS WITH YOU.
You can read the entire article at www.greatcom.org/resources/why_do_christians_suffer. I would love to hear your thoughts on this subject. I pray that if you are going through a time of difficulty and suffering that you will receive comfort and encouragement from this article. As I study more on this subject, I will share what I learn with you. Peace be with you!

MAKE THE MOST OF EACH DAY

I READ THIS IN MY HUSBAND'S "QUICK-BITS" NEWSLETTER THE OTHER DAY AND IT REALLY MADE ME STOP AND THINK. "Hoping to get a glimpse into history, an interviewer asked an 87 year old lady, 'What was the world like back in your day?'
HUMPPH! she responded. THIS is my day!. I love her attitude. Instead of being wistful for the years behind her, the elderly lady's mind was on making the most of the day infront of her."-John Maxwell. WHAT A GREAT ATTITUDE TO HAVE AT 87! IT SHOULD ALSO BE THE ATTITUDE WE ALL HAVE AT ANY AGE. I'M OLD ENOUGH THAT I HAVE ALREADY STARTED THINKING BACK TO DAYS WHEN I WAS YOUNGER AND HEALTHIER AND HAD MORE ENERGY AND COULD DO THINGS I CAN'T DO NOW. SOME OF YOU AREN'T TO THAT STAGE YET.
EVEN SO, AT ANY AGE, IT IS EASY TO FIND REASONS FOR NOT MAKING THE MOST OF EACH DAY.
THERE MAY BE DAYS WHEN YOU DON'T FEEL GOOD OR YOU'RE REALLY TIRED, BUT EVEN ON THOSE DAYS YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. YOU CAN PRAY OR CALL A LONELY WIDOW. YOU CAN WRITE A NOTE OR SEND A CARD OR E-MAIL JUST TO CHEER SOMEONE UP OR LET THEM KNOW YOU'RE THINKING ABOUT THEM. SENDING FUNNY E-CARDS TO A FRIEND WHO IS GOING THROUGH A TOUGH TIME ONLY TAKES A MINUTE AND LITTLE ENERGY BUT CAN MEAN ALL THE WORLD TO THE ONE WHO RECEIVES IT. YOU CAN SPEND TIME READING GOD'S WORD OR LISTENING TO CHRISTIAN MUSIC OR READING A DEVOTIONAL ONLINE. HELPING TO GROW IN YOUR PERSONAL SPIRITUAL WALK IS A GOOD USE OF TIME AT ANY AGE. OF COURSE, THERE ARE SO MANY WAYS YOU CAN MAKE THE MOST OF EACH DAY WHEN YOU DO FEEL GOOD AND HAVE ENERGY AND I DON'T THINK I HAVE TO TELL YOU ALL OF THOSE, YOU KNOW WAYS TO DO THIS. SO, LADIES-REGARDLESS OF OUR AGE OR CIRCUMSTANCES, LET'S MAKE THE MOST OF TODAY!

WILL THE REAL ST. PATRICK,PLEASE STAND UP!

The Historical Saint Patrick
Or: Would the Real Saint Patrick Please Stand Up?
By Bernd Biege, About.com Guide

"For all the hundreds of words written by and millions of words written about Ireland's patron saint, we have to admit to not knowing a lot about Patrick. Sure we know a lot of stories connected to Saint Patrick, from his single-handed conversion of the Irish to his forty days and nights fasting on Croagh Patrick, from the paschal fire he lit in defiance of the royal Tara fire ... to him driving the snakes out of Ireland. But most of these stories are either unproven, slightly dubious or simply tall tales made up by Saint Patrick's followers.


Just the Facts ... on and by Saint Patrick

The only undisputed record of Saint Patrick's life are his scarce biographical sketches in the Confessio and the letter to Coroticus' soldiers (whoever they were). Both documents were written by Patrick himself and contain fairly unspectacular details:


•Patrick was born in Britain into a wealthy Christian family with strong church connections;
•Patrick was abducted by raiders as a young man or boy, taken to Ireland and kept as a servant or slave to herd sheep;
•Following divine inspiration Patrick fled from Ireland, wandered the desert and finally arrived back in Britain;
•Rising within the church, Patrick was chosen to convert the Irish and sent back to the island;
•His rise and mission were not universally welcome, he hints at a "dark secret" rivals knew about;
•Patrick had a definitely apocalyptic vision of his mission in Ireland.


Saint Patrick's Time and Place

While Patrick himself never provided definite dates or places, the common assumption is that his mission in Ireland started in 432. This particular year seems to have been chosen for numerological reasons by later chroniclers and should not be seen as definite. In fact the mission may well have started a few years later, 456 is often mentioned by experts. We simply have way to connect Saint Patrick to any definite date.

Also bear in mind that Saint Patrick's was not the first mission to Ireland - chroniclers relate that a certain Palladius already was sent there in 431. While we know even less about Palladius than we do about Patrick, the latter's biographers seem to agree that the earlier mission was a failure. Again this might just have been a PR-exercise on behalf of Saint Patrick.


Saint Patrick - Harbinger of the Apocalypse

One point that may need a bit more explanation is Patrick's "apocalyptic vision". In his confessio he repeatedly refers to Ireland as the furthest extreme of the world that he will bring into the arms of the church. This ties in with the popular believe that the Final Judgement would come once all nations accepted Christ - thus implying that the completion of Patrick's mission would bring the End of Days.

Obviously Patrick's geographical knowledge even of the world as it was known in his times was very patchy. He seems to have been totally and genuinely convinced, however, that he was chosen to convert the Irish and thus ring in the end of the world as he knew it.

This, in a nutshell, is the sum total knowledge of Patrick as related by himself. With some additional "facts" supplied by his earliest biographers.


Saint Patrick's Legend Lives

Though Saint Patrick obviously did not bring about the apocalypse, he became a cult figure in Early-Christian Ireland and was soon proclaimed a saint. Note that this was a simple process of acclamation in the early middle ages, not the complicated and long-winded papal process it is today. A saint was somebody who led an exemplary Christian life. But Patrick, at least according to his later biographers, also managed to work some truly stunning miracles.

His main feat seems to have been driving the snakes out of Ireland. The slithering ones had been connected to sin since the Garden of Eden. Zoologists will, however, tell you that there never were any snakes in Ireland anyway. Modern interpretation thus sometimes simply equates "snake" with "sin" and sees Saint Patrick driving sin out of Ireland by bringing Christianity into it.

Patrick's other recorded deeds my be as allegorical as the snake episode. His famous forty days and nights of fasting on Croagh Patrick for instance would not be totally impossible physically. It might, however, be lifted straight from Biblical references. We'll never know for sure. Did Saint Patrick really light a a paschal fire to defy the High King of Tara and his druids? Why not - it would have been easy to do and certainly have helped to raise the missionary's profile. Separating the facts from the fictions in Patrick's biographies is next to impossible.


Saint Patrick and the Shamrock

Finally - why just is Saint Patrick nearly always shown with a shamrock? Apparently he tried to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to some Irish pagans. Who simply could not get their heads around the conflicting messages that there is but one God, but that He is a Trinity at the same time.

So Patrick plucked a shamrock and used this to exemplify the Holy Trinity. "Look, it is made up of three identical yet separate pieces - and those three pieces do not exist in isolation but are one." The Irish got the message and the shamrock became a national symbol.


Just Patrick? Or Saint Patrick?

What's in a name after all? A lot - if you see it from a historical perspective.

These days we are used to speak about Saint Patrick, but in his lifetime things would have been different. Patrick himself never claimed any special place, let alone sainthood. The opposite is true - he called himself unworthy, a sinner and uneducated. Just Patrick. Whether this was "fishing for compliments" or true humility we will simply never know, maybe a mixture of both. Surely Patrick perceived his mission as important, bringing on the Final Judgement after all, but then he saw himself only as an important tool in the hand of God. At the same time there would have been many people in Ireland going "Yer man Patrick, he's a real saint, y'know?" But only later was Patrick elevated to the status of a fully fledged saint, recognized by his followers and Rome ...

To be absolutely correct the historical Patrick should be just Patrick, Saint Patrick being reserved for the man and the legend. But even some aspects of the historical Patrick as related by the man himself might be just legend."

OF COURSE WE KNOW THAT ALL OF CHRIST'S BELIEVERS ARE HIS SAINTS. WE DON'T HAVE TO CONVERT A COUNTRY OR PERFORM MIRACLES OR HAVE A SPECIAL HOLIDAY NAMED AFTER US. WE DON'T EVEN HAVE TO BE PERFECT!(even though some church members may try to make you think since you are a minister's wife you & your kids have to be perfect-remember: God does not expect perfection from you.) WE ARE ALL SINNERS SAVED BY GRACE AND WE ARE GOD'S SAINTS! HAPPY SAINTS DAY TO ALL YOU MW'S OUT THERE WHO GIVE SO MUCH OF YOURSELVES TO BUILDING UP HIS KINGDOM! JANIE

PRIORITIES

March Madness is upon us! If you're a big basketball fan like I am, then you're happy. If you're not a fan, you're probably alrady sick of all the games being on T.V. If you fall in this latter category, just hang in there and it will all be over before you know it! Growing up right outside of Lexington, Kentucky, University of Kentucky basketball was a way of life. It's called the Big Blue Nation and I remember my family sitting around the stereo listening to the games on the radio as far back as I can remember. (Sadly, I am that old!) In KY you have to either inherit tickets to go see a game or have celebrity status, like Ashley Judd, to get to actually get into Rupp Arena and see a game. I was fortunate enough to have had a few relatives who had tickets so I got to actually feel the excitement of watching a game inside that huge arena with thousands of other CAT fans, surrounded by a sea of folks all clad in Kentucky Blue, all standing and cheering on their beloved WILDCATS. It's one of those experiences words cannnot adequately describe. Today, my CATS won the SEC tournament, which really made my day! As much as I love cheering my team on in ballgames, it is not the center of my world. My life is not ruined if my team loses. I do not send hate letters to coaches or players when my team plays poorly. I don't call in radio shows and complain about what went wrong and demand the coaches all be fired. Sadly, there are people out there that this IS the center of their world. They have their priorities out of whack. In the big scheme of things, who cares or remembers the score of a game a year from now? What difference will it make in the life of someone who is hurting? Will if help feed a hungry baby? Can it provide homes for single mothers down on their luck? Will it help thousands of Japanese rebuild their lives after the destruction there this week? And most importantly-will it provide them a Savior who loves them enough to die for their sins? Do they know a Lord who will never abandon them? Let's enjoy March Madness but keep our priorities in line.
Let's KEEP THE MAIN THING-THE MAIN THING! Have a great Monday!

SPECIAL EVENT

The Leadership Gathering (which used to be the Pastor/Deacon/Leader Retreat) is adding a special feature, just for us Ministers' Wives this year! We will have our own break-out sessions (just for us!). There will be one on Friday -May 6 from 2-4:30 and another one on Sat. morning (May 7) from 8:15-10:30 a.m.

Rachel Lovingood is coming to lead these sessions. She is a Minister's Wife from Tennessee. She is co-author of a MW Bible Study titled "In Our Shoes". She's also one of the speakers for BETWEEN-US, a conference for MW's by MW's. I know this is Mother's Day week-end, but, that just gives you another reason to have your husband "treat" you to this week-end Retreat. It will be a special time to get away, enjoy the beauty and serenity of Eagle Eyrie and fellowship with other MW's.
On top of that, there will be two great worship experiences with Jon Gordon leading us. Below is all the information you need to register. Oh yeah, bring your husband along - there are alot of great break-out sessions for him,too! IF YOU REGISTER BY THE END OF MARCH THE COST IS $54.00/PERSON (after March 31st, the cost is
$69.00/person)...so sign up now and you'll save more than enough money for your husband to buy you some flowers or take you out to eat on Mother's Day!!!


Registration for "The Leadership Gathering" is underway! Save the dates May 6-7th so you won't miss out on this exciting, high-energy event! Jon Gordon is our guest speaker(author of The Energy Bus, Soup, No Complaining Rule & Training Camp). It was truly "A God Thing" that enabled Jon to share with us at The Gathering. BE SURE AND REGISTER TODAY AT: www.eagleeyrie.org!!!

For more information on our speaker, Jon Gordon-check out his web page.
Jon Gordon | Positive Strategies for Your Life and Career
www.jongordon.com
Home Page of Jon Gordon | Positive Strategies for Life and Work..

Family Christian Stores Daily Devotionals

Family Christian Stores Daily Devotionals

I apologize for not writing something original for a few days. I've got a viral infection and a super sore throat. Please lift me up in your prayers and may this devotional be a blessing to someone today. (Click on the Blue Title: FAMILY CHRISTIAN STORES DAILY DEVOTIONALS, then just scroll down past the part where you can forward or e-mail it to someone, then you will find the devotional).

HOPE

I was so excited to see the daffodils blooming infront of our front porch! It gave me hope that Spring is just around the corner and warmer days are ahead! I can't wait for the trees to bud and my spring bulbs to start blooming.
I know that winter really isn't totally over yet, but I have the hope of Spring to look forward to. Life can be like the seasons. Sometimes, if you are going through bad times, it feels like the cold, dark and dreary days of winter have set in and will never leave. But, just like those daffodil buds, feel the warmth of the sun and burst forth into beautiful blooms you can bloom,too. Even better than the hope of Spring (which only lasts a few months), you will always have Jesus to help you weather the hard times. He will never leave you or forsake you. He is your rock and your fortress. He tells you if you are burdened and heavy ladened to come to Him and He will give you rest. He comforts you when you mourn and strengthens you when you're feeling weak and weary. He will help you to soar like an Eagle. One day, all his children who know him as Lord and Savior will bask in his heavenly sunshine and will bloom more beautiful than any earthly flower. I have the hope of Spring but much better than that, I have hope because The Son loves me and died for me. May we all bloom for Jesus and spread our seeds of Hope to others. Wishing you sunshine today!

THE WISDOM OF DR. SEUSS

Today,many schools are celebrating Read Across America Day. Today is Dr. Seuss' Birthday. Reading to a child or helping a child to read a book is one of the greatest investments of our time. Did you know that each of us will influence at least 3 generations? Encourage a child today by reading to them or with them. If your church doesn't have a library, this might be a good time to start one. Dr. Seuss had a lot of wisdom to share in his books. Here are some of my favorite quotes: "Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you." "From there to here, and here to there, funny things are everywhere." "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." "Today
is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So...get on your way." "If you never did, you should. These things are fun,and fun is good." "I meant what I said and I said what I meant. An elephant is faithful, one hundred percent." "And will you succeed? Yes indeed, yes indeed! Ninety-eight and three-quarters percent guaranteed." "Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple."
"So the writer who breeds more words than he needs, is making a chore for the reader who reads." And with that one, I'll close!

TURNING POINTS ONLINE CONFERENCE

From: "Leadership Network"
To:
Subject: Turning Points is tomorrow!
Date: Tuesday, March 01, 2011 11:04 AM


Hello!Turning Points is just a day away, and we're really excited. It's going to be a great day!We wanted to let you know a few details about tomorrow! Please read this information very carefully:1. We will start at 11:00 a. m. Eastern, 8:00 a. m. Pacific time on Wednesday, March 2. Come a little early so you're all set for the kickoff right at the top of the hour.2. Simply go to this URL to watch: http://turningpoints.leadnet.org3. You'll want to make sure you have a good, solid internet connection, and Flash 9.5 or higher installed on your computer for the best viewing experience.4.  We do have a downloadable program book for Leaders & Readers that will help you give you additional information throughout the day.  It is available as an immediate download for just $29.95 and is available here:http://sites.fastspring.com/leadnet/product/turningpointsconferencecompanionbook5. We also know that not everyone will be able to watch all of Turning Points tomorrow. So... if you'd like to watch all of the videos AFTER the fact, you can order or gold package that includes unlimited on-demand streaming after the conference. The $49.95 one time price also include a copy of the program book listed in #4 above; and it's a great way to share with your staff and church family even after Turning Points is over. You can order your gold package here:http://sites.fastspring.com/leadnet/product/turningpointconferencecompanionbookvideoaccessPlease know that when you purchase either the conference book or the gold video package that you are helping support the tremendous cost and effort it takes to produce Turning Points.We're looking forward to our day together on Wednesday!Todd RhoadesLeadership Network

Ladies,
Sign up today and you can listen to this online conference for women for free!
Hope you have sunshine today like we do. Have a great Tuesday!

HEART REACH

Good Monday Morning, Ladies! So far, it's a beautiful day. The sun is shining and it's warm outside. The weatherman does predict storms with strong winds later today-I hope he's wrong! I hope you all had a good Sunday. I had a great one. Saturday night, my Va. Tech Hokies beat #1 Duke in basketball which made me really happy when I went to bed late Sat. night! Every February, our church does what they call "Heart Reach". Each Sunday School class is given the name or names of a widow or widower in our church and the classes do something special for the people whose names they are given. Our class had a potluck lunch after church yesterday for our two ladies. We gave them each a pretty, potted flower and I made little favors for them using cardstock, punches, and rubber stamps. Inside were Lindor chocolate ball truffles. The ladies seemed to really enjoy everything and it was such a blessing to be able to do something for them. James 1:27 states: "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." If your church doesn't have a ministry to widows and widowers, it would be a good time to start one. HAVE A GREAT MONDAY!

Myspace - Blowin' In The Wind by Bob Dylan

Myspace - Blowin' In The Wind by Bob Dylan

Click on the Blue title above to hear and see this video!

Blowin' in the Wind???

"How many roads must a man walk down, before you can call him a man? The answer my friend is blowin' in the wind, the answer is blowin' in the wind." Boy, the wind sure has been blowin' here last night and today! We had up to 60 m.p.h. wind gusts!
I sure am glad I wasn't flying anywhere- I really don't like bouncing all over the sky! But, back to the song. Is the answer really blowin' in the wind? If we answer our serious questions in life just by "the way the wind's blowin'" (or just by what current culture tells us), we will end up in a pretty big mess. You all know that the only way to get the right answers is to seek God's will. Certainly, don't let today's society sway you when seeking answers. Don't even let church members with their own agenda influence you. There are always some in every congregation who "get in good" with the pastor or minister's wife in order to try and get her to influence her husband into doing things they want done. Beware of these people!
I like this quote from Dr. Seuss: "You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself, any direction you choose." Pray, Spend time in God's Word, Listen. Let God answer your questions and steer you in the right direction. Don't get blown away by a strong wind!

SURPRISES

It was supposed to be 50 degrees here yesterday. We had a meeting on the other side of town at 2:00 and the bank's temperature sign read 32. Needless to say, it never made it to 50. On our way home, we had a sudden surprise-it started snowing! It was coming down really hard and was beautiful (though totally unexpected). We went to Kroger's and when we came out, the snow had stopped just as quickly as it had started. Do you like surprises? I love getting a surprise gift or card or phone call from an old friend. I always want my Christmas and birthday presents to be a surprise. When I had some daffodils bloom in an urn in my garage one February, that was a nice surprise. (I forgot that I'd planted some extra bulbs in this urn when I moved it into the garage at Christmas.) There are good surprises and then there are bad surprises,too. When we got a letter from the water company telling us our meter reading was extremely high and we probably had a leak, that was NOT a good surprise. (we did have a leak and had to have the pipes replaced from the outside of our house to the water meter at the road-ugh!) When your husband gets a call in the middle of the night that someone's been taken to the hospital gravely ill, that's a bad surprise. When someone jumps out and scares you, that's not the kind of surprise I like. We enjoy the good kind of surprises but we don't care for the bad ones. Sometimes God allows the unpleasant surprises to jump out at us. Other times, He blesses us with special ones, like rainbows or sudden but quickly passing snowstorms on a day that's supposed to be 50 degrees. How do you handle surprises? When they're bad ones-ask for God's strength and guidance or comfort. Lean on Him. Search his Word for wisdom. When you get a nice surprise-remember to say Thank-you, Lord! I pray you will be blessed with only good surprises today!

Turning Points: Leading Through Change by 100x - Eventbrite

Turning Points: Leading Through Change by 100x - Eventbrite
Check out this Online Conference for Women's Ministries. You can listen in for free! It's on March 2, starting at 11:00 a.m. Just click on the Blue Title at the top for all the information.

WELCOME TO TOWN!

At church last night, we celebrated our Min. of Youth's 15th Anniversary! I think this must be some kind of record for a Youth Minister. He does a great job and we are truly blessed to have him and his family. We were in several churches for 2 yrs. or 3 yrs and then were fortunate enough to serve our last church for almost 13 years. For a staff member, that's a long time. I'm sure many of you have experienced all those moves to other churches. It's not an easy thing to do, especially for those of you with children or teenagers. Change is hard.
Leaving friends or family is hard,too. There's so much stress involved in the process of moving. We've been blessed to have been welcomed very warmly by all of the churches we've served. However, I do remember the first day we arrived in one city to look for a place to live and there was nobody there to meet us or help us.
Someone had miscommunicated. It was a very lonely and empty feeling. It did not give us a good first impression of that church! Fortunately, this was a town near where I grew up and we were familiar with how to get around and I even had an Aunt who lived there. I can't imagine what it would have felt like if this was a totally strange place to us, like other towns we've moved to. I can recall moving to a new town,to a new church and wanting to pick up the phone and call someone and suddenly realizing-I didn't know anyone there to call! Remember what it feels like to be "the new kid on the block"? When a new minister (Baptist or otherwise) moves into your town, make that extra effort to make them feel welcome.
Take them a a little welcome gift or invite them out for lunch. Tell them the best place to buy groceries and recommend a doctor. Give them your phone number and e-mail. Do whatever you can to help their move be a little easier. When we moved to Roanoke, our pastor and his wife gave us a little basket full of muffins. In it was a note that said "Welcome Home". That truly touched my heart and made me feel welcome. Help make someone else feel welcome to your church or town!

IT'S A WONDERFUL WORLD

My husband took me out for a belated, Valentine's Dinner tonight.
He had a stomach bug on Mon. On the way home, we saw the most gorgeous full moon!
It lights up the blackness of the night sky with it's silvery glow. It's as if God just turned on a huge spotlight to guide the way home for those who are lost.
Sounds like what he did when he sent Jesus into the world, doesn't it!
When we were on a 3 day, Carribean Cruise, years ago- we had a full moon almost every night. It was spectacular out over the vast ocean. We were also blessed to see some of the most stunning sunsets you'll ever see. It was just like watching a huge ball of fire, gradually paint the sky with streaks of pink, yellow and orange and then gently drop into the crystal clear, blue water below. Amazing! God is so good! Take time to notice the world around you and be sure and tell God, Thanks!
He's given us so many beautiful creations to enjoy! It's a wonderful world! Sleep well, sweet ladies and have a great Lord's Day!

HEAVENLY SUNSHINE

God must have decided we all needed a break from winter! He blessed us with sunshine and 70 degrees temperatures today. Tomorrow's supposed to be even warmer! This is such a treat in February. I was able to walk around our neighborhood and deliver my donation envelopes for the Am. Heart Association. I do this every February and it's NEVER been warm enough to walk. I usually drive on the wrong side of the street and stick them in their paper boxes, quickly, before I freeze or get hit by a car coming down the street. (We live in a cul-de-sac and there's not much traffic on our street other than those that live on it.) I also took advantage of this "heat wave" to finally get rid of some dead pansies on my back porch. I've had to look out my kitchen and dining room and see those poor,dried-up, droopy flowers all winter. It was just too cold to go out and throw them away. Sometimes you may feel dried-up and droopy, just like those poor pansies.
But, just like He did with this little taste of Spring in the middle of winter, God will always be there to shower you with the "pick me up" you need. He knows when you need some sunshine in your life and will provide it for you. Enjoy the warmth in the air tomorrow and may each of you feel the warmth of God's love for you!

THIS AND THAT

I just read something in "Family Circle Magazine" that could really help save you alot of time and help prevent some stress. Linda Fears, who is Editor in Chief of the magazine suggests this: She sits down every Saturday and makes out a list of what she plans to have for dinner every night during the coming week. Then, she makes a detailed list of everything she needs to get when she goes to the grocery store. This way, when she gets home from work, she knows exactly what she's going to have time to make and has all the ingredients on hand. I'm sure it takes alot of discipline to make yourself do this but, just think how much easier it will make the week ahead! You will save time and energy, thus eliminating stress and giving you time for something else (maybe a bubble bath or time to read a story to your child).

In trying to find resources for Ministers' wives, I discovered a wonderful site that you might want to check out. Go to: Contagiousjoy4him.com. Several ministers' wives share their knowledge and experiences with you and they are even giving away a book this month. The book is "From One Ministry Wife to Another" by Susie Hawkins.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." -Romans 15:13

I pray for you to have joy and peace today!

LOVE IS....

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY TO EACH OF YOU! I once gave my husband a little book by Charles Schulz entitled "LOVE IS...WALKING-HAND-IN HAND" with Charlie Brown and Peppermint Patty on the cover walking hand-in hand. Here are some other definitions of love from Mr. Schulz and the Peanuts Gang: "Love is...having a special song. Love is...accepting a person for what he is. "Love is...sharing your popcorn... Love is...getting someone a glass of water in the middle of the night." "Love is...looking out for your friends. Love is...a phone call. Love is... a helping hand." " Love is...trust. Love is... eating out with your whole family. Love is...rooting together for your team. Love is...wanting to make someone smile. "Love is...listening without interrupting. Love is...being polite to people. Love is...visiting a sick friend. "Love is...watching someone else's boring show onn T.V. Love is...sitting all the way through a recital. "Love is...believing in someone. Love is... helping someone through his battles. Love is... walking in the rain together. Love is...making fudge together. "Love is...flowers from your favorite person. Love is...being tolerant. Love is...letting your house guest have your room. Love is...waking someone up from a bad dream. Love is... being hospitable. "Love is... dressing up for someone. Love is... a push in the right direction. Love is...not nagging. Love is...being faithful to the very end. Love is tickling. Love is...an invitation to lunch... Love is...allowing someone to sleep late. Love is... hating to say goodbye. Love is...mussing up someone's hair. Love is...close dancing. Love is...a goodnight kiss. "Love is...a smile even when he keeps you waiting." I would say Charles Schulz knew a few things about love, wouldn't you! Of course the greatest love of all was God sending his only son, Jesus, to suffer and die on the cross for our sins so that we could spend eternity with Him. Always remember how much you are loved and share this love with others! I hope each of you have a Happy Valentine's Day!(I made the Valentine in the picture above and send it out to each of you today!)

GET AWAY-TOGETHER

My husband and I just enjoyed a wonderful week-end get away in Lewisburg, WV. We looked in a few little shops in the historic downtown and we drove around the countryside and discovered a beautiful, old, covered bridge. The snow on the bridge and the surrounding farmland was just gorgeous! We stayed at an Inn in an old house with a small dining room downstairs. We ate,slept,read and enjoyed the rocking chairs infront of the fireplace in the lobby. Of course, I had to have a cup of hot tea infront of the fire! It was such a fun and relaxing time. (and Lewisburg was voted the "Coolest Small Town in America" while we were there!).
It is important for ministers and their wives to get away from work, family members, and even their own children. You need time for rest and you need time to spend together as a couple. With all the stress and demands on you and your husband, it is crucial to your marriage that you get away together every now and then. You don't have to go far or even spend alot of money. Be creative. Just be sure you make time for each other! Every relationship needs nurtured to grow and last. Go get your calendars out as soon as possible and find a time to get away together!

GOD THINKS YOU'RE WONDERFUL-PART 2

Here is the second half of the little book "GOD THINKS YOU'RE WONDERFUL" By Max Lucado. "Turn to the sidelines, that's God cheering your run. Look past the finish line; that's God applauding your steps. God is for you. If he had a calendar, your birthday would be circled. If he drove a car, your name would be on his bumper. If there's a tree in heaven, he's carved your name in the bark.
Maybe you don't want to trouble God with your hurts, but..."he cares about you"
1 Peter 5:7. He is waiting for you, to embrace you whether you succeed or fail. Your heavenly Father is very fond of you and only wants to share his love with you.
"Blessed be the Lord your God who has delighted in you...1 Kings 10:9" Untethered by time, God sees us all. Vagabonds and ragamuffins all, he saw us before we were born. And he loves what he sees. Flooded by emotion, overcome by pride, the Star maker turns to us, one by one, and says, "You are my child. I love you dearly. I'm aware that someday you'll turn from me and walk away. But I want you to know, I've already provided a way back." You have captured the heart of God. He cannot bear to live without you. God's dream is to make you right with him. And the path to the cross tells us exactly how far God will go to call us back. "It is not our love for God; it is God's love for us in sending his Son to be the way to take away our sins." 1 John 4:10 Can anything make me stop loving you: God asks. Never, no, not in a million years, never ever. "You wonder how long my love will last? Watch me speak your language, sleep on your earth, and feel your hurts. Find your answer on a splintered cross, on a craggy hill. That's how much I love you." God does more
than forgive our mistakes; he removes them! We simply have to take them to him. You can talk to God because God listens. Let a tear appear on your cheek, and he is there to wipe it. He has sent his angels to care for you, his Holy Spirit to dwell in you...his church to encourage you, and his word to guide you. As much as you want to see Him, he wants to see you more. If you want to touch God's heart, use the name he loves to hear. Call him "Father." HE THINKS YOU'RE WONDERFUL!"
It is my prayer that these words will encourage and uplift you today and help you to realize just how very much God loves you and how very special you are to him.
Have a fantastic day!

GOD THINKS YOU'RE WONDERFUL!

A few years ago, a special friend gave me a fantastic, little book by Max Lucado, titled "God Thinks You're Wonderful!". I'd like to share these words with you. "God is fond of you...If he had a wallet, your photo would be in it. If he had a refrigerator your picture would be on it. He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning. Whenever we want to talk He'll listen. He can live anywhere in the universe, and he chose your heart. Face it, friend. He's crazy about you. By the way, it may be difficult for you to believe that God knows your name...but he does. It's written on his hand. Spoken by his mouth. Whispered by his lips. Your name. I have written your name on the palm of my hand. - Isaiah 49:16
Our hearts are not large enough to contain the blessings that God wants to give. So try this, the next time a sunrise steals your breath... or a meadow of flowers leaves you speechless...remain that way. Say nothing and listen as heaven whispers,
"Do you like it? I did it just for you." If we give gifts to show our love, how much more would he? He could have left the world flat and gray...but he didn't. He splashed orange in the sunshine and cast the sky in blue. And if you love to see geese as they gather, chances are you'll see that too. Did he have to make the squirrel's tail furry? Was he obliged ot make the birds sing? And the funny way that chickens scurry...or the majesty of thunder as it rings? Why give a flower fragrance? Why give food its taste? Could it be he loves to see that look upon your face? So promise me you'll never forget... that you aren't an accident or an incident...you are a gift to the world,a divine work of art, signed by God. You knit me together in my mother's womb.-Psalm 139:13 You were knit together. You weren't mass-produced. You aren't an assembly-line product. You were deliberately planned, specifically gifted, and lovingly positioned on this earth...by the Master Crafts-Man. He thinks you are the best thing to come down the pike in quite a while." This was a little over half of this little book-I'll share more with you tomorrow. If you don't think you're worth much or if others have made you feel insignificant and that you aren't all that they think you should be-just read over this again and remember how special you are to God (and isn't that all that really matters!) Have a great day!

LOVE,LISTEN & HELP

Sorry I haven't written anything in the past few days. I had houseguests over the week-end. We went to a fun place called Bubble cakes. All they have are lots of unique cupcakes and something to drink. I had a Creme Brulee cupcake that was delicious! If you have one of these in your town, I would highly recommend it!
My husband spoke at another church on Sunday but my houseguests went with me so I didn't have to deal with not having anyone sit with me. I did know a lady there but she was in the choir. It was so exciting to see this church packed! I only found a place to park because I parked in a visitor's only parking space. We had to sit in the balcony to find a seat! The Lord is really working in this church and I am so thankful they are growing so much. I read this from a friend on Facebook the other day and thought I'd share it with you. "A person's most useful asset is not the head full of knowledge, but a heart full of love, an ear ready to listen, and a hand willing to help." -status shuffle. I thought this was so true! I am definitely not saying we shouldn't keep learning but I don't think we make a difference in our world just by how much knowledge we have. It is the people who live life sharing love with others that really make a difference. It's that person who cares enough to take the time to listen when we need to unload a burden or get advice that we will remember. Those who use their hands to help others in need will impact the life of each one they help and isn't that what God wants from all of us. So let's use our hearts, ears, and hands this week to make a difference in someone's life!

FUN AND GAMES

The family that plays together, stays together. At least that's my philosophy. Ministers and their families are busy people. Between church, work, school, sports, housework and cooking meals there is very little time left for anything else. Somehow, you need to let something slide and make time to play games together as a family. If there are 2,3,4 or more in your family, it doesn't matter. Two can play a game together just as well as 4 or 5 or more. Get out the old board games and put away the electronics. You will be surprised at how many children and teenagers can still enjoy an "old fashioned" game with no batteries or computer chip. Monopoly, Scrabble, Life, Sorry are oldies but goodies when it comes to board games. Twister is always popular with those still flexible enough to survive it. When my nieghbors' kids came over, I had a tin with some pick-up sticks in it. They wanted to learn how to play it and enjoyed it so much that the next time they came, they asked me to go and get it out so they could play it again. These were 7th grade boys who are always playing video games and on a variety of sports teams. This year, at Christmas, I introduced them to Chinese checkers. Set aside a Family game night-put it on your calendar and don't let anything other than an emergency stop you from keeping it! Maybe vary it some and have a family movie night with popcorn. Make a picnic for supper and eat on a blanket on the floor (infront of the fireplace if you have one). I guarantee there will be no ants bother you this time of year! Whatever you decide to do, as the old Nike commercial says..."Just Do It!" You'll be surprised at how much closer this will bring your family together and how much fun you will have. I look forward to some of you sharing about your game nights or other family activities you do together. Have a great week-end and have some FUN!

RESCUED

We've been in Richmond since Sun. afternoon for meetings and got home about 5:00 tonight. We had just finished unloading the car when the phone rang. It was an old friend of mine who lives in another state now. Her husband left her a few years ago and she desperately needs a full-time job and to be able to move out of the house of her mother who is mentally disturbed. She has a teenage daughter to care for also. She was in the very depths of despair when I talked with her. Please pray for her! She's even given up on prayer. She says she's prayed for 4 years and things just keep getting worse. Later tonight, I heard Beth Moore on television sharing this passage of scripture: "He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters . He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me." Psalm 18:16-19
Beth asked her audience what foes were too strong for them to handle. Do you have foes that are overpowering you? "Foes" can be actual, human enemies but they can also be other things such as fear, depression, stress, a feeling of inadequacy, loneliness, a quick temper, a sharp tongue, etc. Ask God to deliver you from any foes that are too strong for you. He will rescue you, just as He will rescue my friend, in His time. If you are feeling like my friend, I pray for you to get comfort and encouragement from someone and from these verses. I pray God will strengthen and uphold you and that you will not lose faith while you wait for him to Rescue You!
Remember-God loves you and will never leave you or forsake you. He is your lifeboat!

THE IMPORTANCE OF FELLOWSHIP

We need fellowship with other Christians but we also need fellowship with other Ministers' Wives. We need to get to know each other so we can pray for each other and encourage one another. You may live close to another MW or you may be isolated from any other MW. Whatever your case may be, you need to be able to find another MW to have fellowship with. She doesn't have to be Baptist. Having another lady who understands the day to day pressures that you face is crucial to maintaining your health, both physical and mental. If you can get together face to face and share a cup of tea or go for a walk, it will do wonders for your outlook. If you can't get together face to face, then talk on the phone or by e-mail. Share your concerns and needs. Build each other up and lift each other up in prayer daily. It is my prayer that this Blog will provide that needed fellowship for some of you. If you prefer a more private conversation, please feel free to e-mail me at janiec76@cox.net. 1 John 1:7 tells us: "But if we are living in the light of God's presence, just as Christ is, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from every sin." So you see, the Bible even emphasizes the importance of fellowship with each other! Make the effort to seek out another MW and start fellowshipping! (or should that be ladyshipping??, ha,ha). Have a wonderful day!

IN REMEMBRANCE

Every January, our church has a time of remembrance during the worship services to remember those members who have gone on to heaven during the past year.
They flash their picture and date of birth and death on the big screen with music playing softly in the background. It's a very sad and somber time. Yet, we do rejoice for those who are now in the very presence of our wonderful, Savior and Lord and Almighty God! They are happy, it is we who are sad because they are no longer with us. We lost at least 3 very dear friends this past year and one of them was remembered today at church. It is our responsibility as Christians to take care of widows and orphans but I feel we also need to take care of widowers.
All 3 of our friends left husbands here who loved them deeply and are having to try to go on with their lives. After the funerals are over, many of those left behind are soon forgotten or just ignored by their church family. This is not intentional, they just kind of get lost in the day to day needs of other members, etc. If your church does not have a ministry to widows and widowers, especially those who have just recently lost their spouse, then please start one or find someone else with the gift of compassion to head this up. The last church my husband served in, our pastor's late wife once had the idea for the MW's in the church (there were about 10 of us) to give a tea each year for all of the ladies who had lost their husbands during the past year. We did this for several years, even after our pastor's wife had passed away. One of our Bap. Women's group got involved and helped us make gifts for them one year. We used the good china and teacups and tried to make it a very special day for them. We had it in some of our homes some years and at the church some years, depending on the size of the group. Each MW was assigned a lady to invite and to stay in touch with after the tea. Years later, I still try to stay in touch with some of those ladies. We tried to get the Bap. Men to do something for the widowers and they said they would, but they never did. Hopefully, you can find a person or group in your church who will do something special for these men. Just a phone call, a card, or especially a personal visit will brighten their day. Invite them over for a home-cooked meal (especially the men) or take one of the ladies out for tea or a lunch. Let us not forgot those who have gone before us, nor the ones they've left behind!

Hayley Westenra Sings Amazing Grace Like an Angel

Hayley Westenra Sings Amazing Grace Like an Angel

Click on this and you will be blessed!

JOY

JOY. The American College Dictionary defines joy as: " an emotion of keen or lively pleasure arising from present of unexpected good; exultant satisfaction; great gladness; delight. "
Joy to the world, the Lord has come. Let earth receive her King.
In the NIV Bible, Proverbs 15:30 says "A cheerful look brings JOY to the heart and good news gives health to the bones." The same verse in the Good News Bible states it this way: "Smiling faces make you happy, and good news makes you feel better." What gives you joy? How can you bring joy to someone else? Nobody likes to be around negative, complaining people. It makes them feel bad and brings them down,too. When you're around a joyful, positive, happy person it makes you feel good and lifts your spirits. Find someone like that to spend your time with. Their joy will be contagious and then you can spread it to someone else. Have a joyful week-end!

SEASONS

Well, it's still winter! I love watching it snow when I can stay inside and sip my hot tea and watch the pretty flakes as they gently float to the ground and cover it with a beautiful, white blanket. But, on the other hand-I really dislike the cold and having to drive on slick roads. A friend told me that it was only a little over 80 days until Spring. The crazy robins that covered my backyard twice last week must not have gotten that message! I am soooo ready for warmer weather and to see the trees and flowers come to life again. Summer will be even better with warm sunshine, green grass, and daylight until 9:00. Then, Fall will arrive with its cool breezes and leaves turning vibrant reds and radiant oranges. I am privileged to live in this beautiful valley that is surrounded by the the Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Mountains. Our home is right under the Blue Ridge Parkway, so we have a glorious view of the gorgeous picture God paints with those trees in the Fall. Each season has it's good points and it's bad points. Life is the same way.

We have different seasons in our lives. There is childhood and the teenage years.

Then there is college or just starting out on our own. Marriage and having children is another season. Raising those children or having a career could be considered the next season. After children are grown or we hit middle-age we enter still another season. Then we begin to move into our Senior-Adult years.

Just as Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall have their good points and bad points, the seasons of our lives have ups and downs. The way we deal with the "downs" has a-lot to do with our attitude. We can complain about the cold or we can choose to enjoy the beauty of the snow. We can wallow in self-pity when we go through unpleasant times in our lives or we can choose to seek God's help and keep our chins up and make the best of whatever life throws at us. Even though seasons change and seasons of life change, we can be assured that God does not change. He is always there for us and He never changes. Let him guide you through whatever season of life you are in right now. I will try not to complain about the cold and just look forward to snow days when I get to stay inside!

YouTube - God's love letter

YouTube - God's love letter

ADVICE TO PONDER

A very good friend forwarded me something called Handbook 2011 today. It had some great advice in it so I would like to share it with each of you.

"HEALTH:

Drink plenty of water, Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and less food that is manufactured in plants. Live with the 3 E's--Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy. Make time to pray. Play more games. Read more books than you did in 2010. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day and sleep for 7 hours. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily and while you walk, smile. PERSONALITY: Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about. Don't have negative thoughts or worry about things you cannot control, instead invest your energy in the positive present moment. Don't over do. Keep your limits. (this is especially true for MW's!). Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip. Dream more while you are awake. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your husband of his mistakes in the past, that will ruin your present happiness. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present. No one is in charge of your happiness except you. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime (I don't remember anything from Algebra class except my teacher was very patient and answered all my questions-I even got an A). Smile and laugh more. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree. SOCIETY: Call your family often. Each day give something good to others. Forgive everyone for everything (this is really hard but remember God will help you do this). Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6. Try to make at least 3 people smile each day. What other people think of you is none of your business (I know this one is especially hard for us as MW's. , but, as I've said before, we can't please everyone. Just be the good Christian example God wants all Christians to be.) Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch with them. LIFE: Do the right thing. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful. (this doesn't include your husband or children! Just kidding!) God heals everything. However good or bad a situation is, it will change. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up. (unless you are sick). The best is yet to come. When you awake alive in the morning, thank God for it. YOUR INNER MOST IS ALWAYS HAPPY. SO, BE HAPPY." Think about these words then share how you feel about some of it with me. If you want to forward this (without my comments), just let me know and I can e-mail it to you. I forwarded it to some friends and family this morning and it made my sister-in-law take time to get in touch with me today. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Have a great night!

A QUOTE TO PONDER

A friend posted this on Facebook the other day and I wanted to share this with all of you. "A person's most useful asset is not the head full of knowledge, but a heart full of love, an ear ready to listen, and a hand willing to help." -Status Shuffle
Let's all use our hearts, ears and hands today!

WAIT PATIENTLY

Waiting is hard for us. Being patient is hard for us. Waiting patiently seems almost impossible for us,doesn't it! We live in a fast paced society. We cook or heat food in our microwaves in seconds or minutes, we go to fast-food restaurants to get meals quickly, we can access information from the other side of the world with a click of the mouse. We hate sitting at stoplights and click through commercials because we don't like waiting for our favorite show or movie to come back on. If you are in a situation where you are waiting for God to give you an answer about something or where you want God to change a situation in your life, this probably will not happen immediately. God is not on the same wave length as we are when it comes to timing. When we want or need something, we want it NOW not later. To our dismay, the word wait is used over and over in the Bible.
There was a time when I had to wait for God to get us out of a miserable church setting or drastically change the circumstances there. It seemed like He took forever to do this. A little book called "You're Late Again, Lord!" by Karon Phillips Goodman helped me get through this waiting period. I've marked many verses that are in this book about waiting on the Lord. Here are just a few: "Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day." - Psalm 25:4-5 and "I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I do hope." -Psalm 130:5
"Therefor humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7 and one of my favorite verses in the entire Bible: "But those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:31. In her book, Karon asks these questions: 1) How do you react when you have to wait for something? 2) How does your spirit and strength suffer when you're waiting? and then she says "Think about how you want to mount up, run, and walk into a closer relationship with God." I'd love to hear some of your answers to these questions.
Remember, God has not forgotten you, He is just waiting for the right time to help you soar like an eagle!