Designer's Original

A Change is Coming

2011-12-26T14:49:00.000-08:00

Hello there to all my people in blog land!!

As you can see it's been about a month since my last post. Due to a crazy, hectic schedule, it has been very hard trying to be consistent with my posts. Only because after I get home from work, I am only left with enough time to cook dinner, get my children ready for school the next day, etc. and etc. Then I have to make sure I am in bed at least by 9 so that can get enough rest in order to do all over again 4:30 in the A.M. the next morning.

However, I am proud and even bless to say that my schedule will be changing drastically in February 2012. Whereas, I will be able to post more and take my blog on a whole new level for the new year!! I ask that you pray for me and even my family as I embark on this new endeavor in 2012.

Until February 2012....if not before then!!!

Toia

Thankful for Inspirational ~ Philippians 4:13

2011-11-27T10:47:00.000-08:00

Even though Thanksgiving Holiday has come and gone, that doesn't mean giving thanks should cease. With that being said, I am thankful for stories of inspiration; stories where people have turned nothing into something only because they never gave up on their dreams. Despite all the obstacles they faced or having barely to no money in their bank account, they perserved into victory.

Inspirational stories give you hope, empower you, and the strength to not give up on what you want in life. Sometimes you will be surprise what someone has gone through to reach the level of success they have. Many people (myself included) tend to look at the finish product. But when I hear or read about their testimonies, I see them from a different perspective.

With this being said, whatever desire you have whether it's to own your own business, write books, go back to school, or etc., find real life stories in the bible or internet, read them and get inspired. There is nothing too hard for God to do in and through you.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)

Thankful for a "Little Pick-Me Up" ~ Habakkuk 3:17-19

2011-11-20T08:44:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for everytime I am feeling down I can use God's Word as a pick-me up. There will be days where you may not feel as cheery as you would normally; Or where you may feel a bit heaviness in your spirit. Whatever the case may be, you know when you are not having a good day. But it's okay. The most important thing is that whatever or whomever may have you feeling down in the dumps, you don't have to allow it to keep you down.

Use God's word as a "pick-me up". There are many, many, many scriptures/passages in the bible that can bring joy, peace, and an upliftment in your spirit. For example this passage definitely helps me, when I am feeling down.

"Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, And there be no herd in the stalls-- Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer's feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills." (Habakkuk 3:17-19)

How about this......

I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up, And have not let my foes rejoice over me. O LORD my God, I cried out to You, And You healed me. O LORD, You brought my soul up from the grave; You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning." (Psalm 30:1-5)

God's word is a guarantee that troubles don't last always. So, whenever you need a pick-me up, refer to God's Word and let it minister to you spiritually and emotionally.

Heavenly Father I thank you in the name of Jesus for Your Word. It is a lifter of my spirit when I need it most. It's because of Your Word that I know without a shadow of doubt that troubles don't last always. Amen.

Thankful for Having a Vision ~ Habakkuk 2:2

2011-11-16T14:37:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for God imprinting a vision on my heart. Having a vision gives me a sense of purpose. It also gives my a goal, which in my mind means to have a destination. Every time I think and ponder about the impossible being possible, I feel so good in my spirit.

It can be very scary at times, knowing that God has birth a vision in your spirit because you might even think, "Ummm, God are you sure about this." Nonetheless, God sees more than enough potential in us than we can ever imagine. With that being said, God knows that if just take heed to His instructions, His word, and His guidance, He will give you all the tools and people you need to help transform your vision from being abstract to concrete, so that He can receive all the glory, all the honor, and all the worship in the name of His Son, Jesus.

And for that reason, I am more thankful for having a vision. I have wrote my vision out so that it is always before me. I encourage you to do the same. Write your vision. Make plain and easy to understand.

Then the LORD answered me and said: "Write the vision And make [it] plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it." (Habakkuk 2:2)

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I thank you heavenly Father in the name of Your precious Son, Jesus for imprinting a vision on your heart. I pray that it will be a blessing to people and win souls for Christ Jesus. Amen.

Thankful for Joy ~ Nehemiah 8:10

2011-11-12T10:13:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for joy. This is where I get my strength from according to God's word. "Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength," (Nehemiah 8:10). The joy that comes from God.....the world, the devil, or anyone for that matter cannot steal it. They can very well try in hopes that you will coward down and give it to them without a fight.

But little do your enemies know, that you are not the one to coward down because you are more than a conqueror in Christ Jesus. You will hold to your joy with all your might because despite of your current situation "weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning,"
(Psalm 30:5).

"Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation." (Habakkuk 3:18)

Thank you God for the JOY that gives me strength in the name of Jesus.

Thankful for Veterans ~ Psalm 91:11

2011-11-11T18:48:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for veterans. I am thankful for God sending soldiers to protect our country and fight for our freedom. I am thankful for the soldiers' families who maintain the balance in their loved one's absence.

I salute all soldiers in the name of Jesus. I pray that God that will continue to protect them by the power of the blood and in the name of Jesus.

"For He shall give His angels charge over you,

To keep you in all your ways."

(Psalms 91:11)

Thankful for a Great God ~ Psalm 95:1-3

2011-11-10T16:23:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for God being a great God, an awesome God. There is none (not one person) like Him. He is greater than our circumstances. He is greater than what seem to us at times our impossibilities. I am thankful that I serve a true, mighty and living God.

God is so great that He can do the exceedingly, abundantly above all we can ever ask or think. Because I serve a great God, I can sing and shout joyfully unto to Him for mighty works. Hallelujah and Amen!!

Blessing to you as you read Psalm 95:1-3.

Psalm 95:1-3

Oh come, let us sing to the LORD!

Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation.

Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving;

Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.

For the LORD is the great God,

And the great King above all gods.

A Psalm of Thanksgiving

2011-11-08T18:25:00.000-08:00

In about two weeks, if not less than that, we will be celebrating Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love the idea of preparing a gourmet for my family and giving God thanks to all the blessings He has bestow upon us as well as all the blessings we will receive in the near future.

However, it is very important that we don't wait 11 months and some change to give God thanks for all He has done. It should be done on a daily basis, more like part of our livestyle. Having said that, I thought this will be great opportunity to share with you Psalm 100, the Psalm of Thanksgiving.

As we read Psalm 100, I pray that it will be a blessing to you.

Psalm 100

A Psalm of Thanksgiving.

Make a joyful shout to the LORD, all you lands!

Serve the LORD with gladness;

Come before His presence with singing.

Know that the LORD, He is God;

It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;

We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,

And into His courts with praise.

Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.

For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting,

And His truth endures to all generations.

This Is Church Video

2011-10-30T14:56:00.000-07:00

I saw this video and think it is so true. We are the church.

"Go therefore and make disciples of

all the nations, baptizing them in the name

of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy

Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that

I have commanded you; and lo, I am with

you always, [even] to the end of the age." Amen

(Matthew 28:19-20)

Women's Retreat Summary

2011-09-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

I thought I would do something like a scrapbook to sum up the glorious weekend I has with my girlfriends from church.

I hope you like it. Just click and play!!

This newsletter design made with Smilebox

These women truly represent Designer's Originals.....God's original creation...His masterpiece....His poem....His workmanship created for great works and to give Him all the glory in Jesus' Name.

Women's Getaway with my Girlfriends

2011-09-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

This week I will be going to a women's getaway associated with the women's ministry from my church. I have said this this before and I will say it again...."It's a blessing to have girlfriends that you can laugh with, have fun, and share the love of Christ.

Not many women can say that they can. For one of many reasons, this is why I am excited about embarking on this great adventure with some of favorite and fun girlfriends. Below is a mini slideshow featuring some of my beautiful and anointed girlfriends joining me this week.

"A friend loves at all times...."
(Proverb 17:17)

Remembering 9/11......10 years Later

2011-09-11T14:44:00.000-07:00

In honor of those who lost their lives on such a tragic day, may they never be forgotten.

Psalm 91:Safety of Abiding in the Presence of God
1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust.”

3 Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler[a]
And from the perilous pestilence.
4 He shall cover you with His feathers,
And under His wings you shall take refuge;
His truth shall be your shield and buckler.
5 You shall not be afraid of the terror by night,
Nor of the arrow that flies by day,
6 Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness,
Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.

7 A thousand may fall at your side,
And ten thousand at your right hand;
But it shall not come near you.
8 Only with your eyes shall you look,
And see the reward of the wicked.

9 Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge,
Even the Most High, your dwelling place,
10 No evil shall befall you,
Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
11 For He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways.
12 In their hands they shall bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.
13 You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra,
The young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.

14 “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him;
I will set him on high, because he has known My name.
15 He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble;
I will deliver him and honor him.
16 With long life I will satisfy him,
And show him My salvation.”

Scripture Sharing Sunday ~ 2 Samuel 22:29-30

2011-08-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

2 Samuel 22:29-30

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"For You [are] my lamp, O LORD; The LORD shall enlighten my darkness.
For by You I can run against a troop; By my God I can leap over a wall." NKJV

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"O LORD, you are my lamp. The LORD lights up my darkness.
In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall." NLT

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"You are my lamp, O LORD; the LORD turns my darkness into light. With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall." NIV

Stands Outweighing Your Falls

2011-08-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

My definition "to stand" means - not to give up, to endure, and not to waiver your faith in God, His Word, and all the He has promised you.

Depending on the situation, standing is a whole lot easier said than done. I know they may be times where you are at your wits end and you don't know if you are coming or going.

Better yet, the moment you think you are actually on the right track to see some kind of light at the end of the tunnel, something happens to knock you back further than where you started.

You may have fell more than you can even count on your hand. Nonetheless, I'm telling and encouraging you not to let your falls outweigh your stands. Instead, let your stands outweigh the number of times you fall.

Fall seven times, stand up eight. ~ Japanese Proverb

"For a righteous man may fall
seven times And rise again..."
(Proverbs 24:16)

Still Standing

2011-08-24T16:06:00.000-07:00

I'm Still standing but by the grace of God!!!

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1)

"Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your joy; for by faith you stand."
(2 Corinthians 1:24)

Stand Fast in Your Faith

2011-08-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

It can very hard to stand when going through various trial and tribulations.
It's even harder to stand, especially when you are trying to stand on your own and by yourself. But, you don't have to, since we have our helper, our comforter and wonderful counselor living on the inside.

However, in order to quickening and stir the Helper inside of you, you must start speaking God's word to your heart. It is God's word that can get you to stand up on the inside. You can't compromise it, twist it, fluff it, sugar coated, but you surely can stand on it and not waver in your faith.

"On Christ the solid rock I stand all other ground is sinking sand."

Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong." (1 Corinthians 16:13)

Monday's Edition: Great Day and Great Week!!

2011-08-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today is a great day!! I am speaking into existence (See Romans 4:17) that this is going to be a great week. No matter what obstacle may come our way, I pray that we willl have the mind to stand on God's word and use it as a weapon to destroy any plans the devil has in attempt to turn our week upside down. Now, can I get a Amen or a Hallelujah!! :)

Scriptures to meditate on this week:

"And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen." (Romans 16:20)

"For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12)

"Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." (Ephesians 6:11)

The Word of God Stands Forever

2011-08-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

"The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever." (Isaiah 40:8).

because "All flesh is as grass, And all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, And its flower falls away, But the word of the LORD endures forever." Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you. (1 Peter 1:24-25)

The word of God lives and abides forever (1 Peter 1:24-25). Storms pass. Leaves wilt. Problems come and go. Things happen. People change. Rollercoasters go up, down, and around.

But, the one thing that will remain constant and forever true is God's word. It won't fade. It won't fail you. It's always there especially when you need it the most.

Lord, teach me how to trust and stand on your word for it endures and stands forever. Amen.

Lighten the Load

2011-08-20T00:30:00.000-07:00

"For My yoke [is] easy and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:30)

How often do we find ourselves taking on more than we can carry?? If you are like me, probably more often than you can count on one hand. God wants us to allow Him to carry all of our heavy burdens.

This past month or so since my last post, I had a lot on my plate. I had to plan and prepare for the first day of preschool, where I am the assistant director, register my three children for school, paying facts and fees, buying school supplies, school clothes, and make transportation arrangements. All the while I had to maintain my sanity.

It was tough no doubt. Many times I felt overwhelmed. I was worrying about how much it was going to cost to get my three children ready for school. In addition to that, I was questioning my position as assistant director. So, it was a lot of emotions going on inside of me and all kinds of crazy thoughts running through my head.

However, when I was able to come to myself and pause for just enough time for God to speak to my heart. He told me not to worry, but to cast all my cares upon Him. I would make a way out of what seems like a no way to you.

I felt relieved and realized that I should have done that from the beginning. After everything was said and done, I was able to breathe out a sigh of relief. I don't feel overwhelmed and pressured anymore.

Besides, Matthew 11:30, a few scriptures came to mind that really helped me.

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." (Matthew 6:34)

"Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

"I will lift up my eyes to the hills--From whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD,...." (Psalm 121:1-2)

No matter how big or small of a problem you are trying to take on yourself. Give it to God. Let Him lighten the load. Even the smallest and tedious problem, can weigh you down tremdously and take your focus off of God.

Heavenly Father thank you for being our burden carrier and lightening our load. I pray for those who being weighted down by their circumstance that they will come themselves long enough to trust you and to let it go into your hands. All praise, all glory, and honor to You in the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Awwwww.......OH...What a Relief it is!!!

2011-07-11T14:38:00.000-07:00

Awwww......is breathing with a sigh of relief.....

This is the way I see it....

I am too bless to be

stress,

oppress,

and depress.

Why???

You may ask.......

I serve a God who is....

"my Redeemer,

my Healer,

Lord Almighty,

my Savior,

Defender,

and my King" !!!

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer." (Psalm 19:14)

Destined to be Great and do Great Things

2011-06-06T08:05:00.000-07:00

We are destined to do great things. God did not create us to be ordinary, but to be extraordinary. Christians are not designed to be normal or to be just like the world. We are a group of peculiar people.

Peculiar - characteristic of only one person, group, or thing : distinctive; different from the usual or normal; special...

"Characteristic of only one person..." for Christians should be of our Heavenly Father. We are express the Godly characteristics. We are to imitate Christ and His way of doing and handling things; not the way the world does. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control," (Galatians 5:22-23).

We are distinctive, set apart, separate into a different class. We are special. Not only are we special, we are God's special treasures.

"For you are a holy people to the LORD your God, and the LORD has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples who are on the face of the earth." (Deuteronomy 14:2)

God created us in His image. And the God we serve is a great God. Because we are made in the image of someone who is so great, are we not to be great and do great things, so that our Father in heaven can get the glory in the name of Jesus???

God has a plan for all of us, but we have to listen to His voice as He order our steps. This may be intimidating to some but it's OK because, "You are of God, little children,........, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world," (1 John 4:4).

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good (great) works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10) {emphasis mine}

A Memorial Day Tribute

2011-05-30T07:27:00.000-07:00

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Thanks to all the soldiers who fought

and sacrificed their lives so that we can have and maintain our freedom!!! I send my thought and prayers to the families who lost their loved ones while servicing our country.

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Psalm 63:6-7

2011-05-29T15:45:00.000-07:00

I read this scripture this morning and it spoke to my spirit. I just thought I would share it you. Have a bless Sunday!!!

"I lie awake thinking of You,

meditating on You through the night.

Because You are my helper,

I sing for joy in the shadow of Your wings."

(Psalm 63:6-7 nlt)

Image from kathizo.com

Today's Nugget ~ Getting Started

2011-05-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today's Nugget is......

Let's Get it Started. It's a new week. And whatever challenges you may have to face or goals you have to accomplished, with God's strength, you can do it!!

"I can do all things through Christ

who strengthens me."

(Philippians 4:13)

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This is the Day!!!

2011-05-22T06:31:00.000-07:00

"This is the day the LORD has made;

We will rejoice and be glad in it."

(Psalm 118:24)

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Today's Nugget ~ God's Word & Poison

2011-05-21T19:17:00.000-07:00

My nugget for today is.....

Do not let negativity, anything, or anyone
poison your heart and mind....

If you think or feel like that it's too late for that,

then allow God and His Word to be an antidote.

God's Word is sharp enough and strong enough to kill any poison that may have contaminated your spirit, soul, and body. It's never too late for God to cure the very thing that is ailing you. All you have to do is just open up, let God into heart, and He will do the rest.

"For the word of God [is] living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."(Hebrews 4:12)

Thank God for a Mother's Love!!!

2011-05-08T00:00:00.000-07:00

Thank God for Mother's Love – Anonymous
There is no love, like a mother's love,
no stronger bond on earth...
like the precious bond that comes from God,
to a mother, when she gives birth.
A mother's love is forever strong,
never changing for all time...
and when her children need her most,
a mother's love will shine.
God bless these special mothers,
God bless them every one...
for all the tears and heartache,
and for the special work they've done.
When her days on earth are over,
a mother's love lives on...
through many generations,
with God's blessings on each one.
Be thankful for our mothers,
for they love with a higher love...
from the power God has given,
and the strength from up above.

This goes out to all the mothers out there!! May God to bless and keep you as well as give you strength to endure everyday responsibilities of a mother.

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Happy Mother's Day!!!

2011-05-07T15:16:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day...
a time for warm thoughts
and fond memories,
for expressing
the feelings and words
that often go unspoken,
for letting
those special people
in our lives know
that they are loved
and appreciated -
always.

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Word-Filled Wednesday ~ Luke 18:16

2011-04-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

Below this is a picture my little girl, Ketirah, (at this time she was 6) drew a picture in church on the white board. It's a picture of Jesus hugging her. How can you not love that??

Even at such a young age, she knew who Jesus is and that He is always there giving out hugs. Not only that, Ketirah doesn't see Jesus as little person, but someone who is bigger than her.

"But Jesus called them to Him and said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God." (Luke 18:16)

For more Word-Filled Wednesday, click the link below!!!

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Hosted By: Amydeanne @ The 160 Acre Woods

I Love Jesus!!

2011-04-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

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"Jesus said to him, "'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.'" (Matthew 22:37)

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Monday's Edition!!! ~ Grrrrrr!!!

2011-04-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

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Do you ever feel like this..... here comes MONDAY...again?? Well, sometimes I do and sometimes I don't. I don't think I was as bad as I use to be.

Sometimes, how I feel about Monday the next day depends on how my weekend went. If had a great weekend, spending time with family or friends, just enjoying, then when Monday comes, it's not a big deal to me.

However, if I had a bad weekend for whatever reason, then Monday comes, I am "Grrrrrr! Monday, already!! I mean really!"

So, what I try to do now is not think about Monday so much as a "bad" thing. I put a positive twist on it, by thanking God for the weekend and speaking blessings over Monday and the rest of the week for that matter. The ideal of Monday entering in our lives is a mind game. You can either be positive or you can "Grrrrr!!!" at the whole idea of it.

"I take the positive perspective for 200 Alex!!" =D

Whatever negative or ill feelings you may have about Monday, cast them down in the name of Jesus and speak positive, encouraging words.

For example: "Lord, I think you for blessing me with another day!"

Heaven Father, whatever may come my way as I start my week, let me have the strength and power to perservere and endure!"

"Thank you Jesus, for seeing another Monday. This is the day that you have made and I will rejoice and be glad in it!!"

"Monday is here bring it on!! And I rebuke satan in the name of Jesus for even trying to make the day that the Lord has made a bad one!!"

I pray in the name of Jesus that you have great Monday and a great week. May you be a blessing to others just as God has been a blessing to you. Amen.

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Psalms Singing A New Song!!!

2011-04-03T13:32:00.000-07:00

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Blessings to you as you start a another week.

The Pruning Process: Changing From the Old into the New

2011-03-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

My last posts are about springing forth into something new as well as allowing God to take you out of the old and transform you into a new creature in Christ that He has destined you to be.

In addition to that, I need you to understand that the NEW you is not going to happen with the wave of some sort of a magic wand or overnight. It's not an instant gratification, but a delayed one, which in the long run you will appreciate more. It's a process.

God brought this passage to my attention, during my devotional reading.

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples." (John 15:1-8)

From reading John 15:1-8, you can understand why being a new creature in Christ is so important. You can't bear fruit if your spirit is old and withered. You have to allow God to prune away all dead, old, and dried areas in your heart, so that you can blossom and bear fruit. The more fruit you bear the more our Father in heaven gets glorified.

Once again, it's a process - The Process of Pruning. The more you get into God's Word (meditate on it, study it, apply it and speak it) the more God prunes all the old in the name of Jesus and by the power of the Holy Spirit. Then you will begin to blossomed like you never did before and bear so much fruit that you have no other choice to share and bless others just as God has blessed you.

Father, I pray that you stripped away and prune every dead, old, and withered area in my life so that I can bear fruit. I am changing from the old into the new in the name of Jesus and by the power of the Holy Spirit working in me. To God be the Glory!! Hallelujah and Amen!!

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Word-Filled Wednesday ~ Psalm 40:3

2011-03-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

We should not be singing the same old song. It's time to allow God to put a new song in your mouth. Not only would those who don't understand how awesome God is fear it, but the devil himself would quaking in his boots.

He knows once you grab hold of your new song God has birth in your heart, you will become a dangerously contagious Christian. And there won't no stopping you. People would draw near to you. Then those same people are going to want to know how can they get them a new song and sing it!!

Bottomline, God's new song for you will go multi-platinum and spread worldwide!!!

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Old Things Have Passed Away!!!

2011-03-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

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"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become NEW."(2 Corinthians 5:17)

New - [Greek word: kainos (kahee-noss) #2537] - unused, fresh, novel. The word means new in regard to form or quality rather than new in reference to time.

Being a new creature in Christ, means that I am not the same Toia I was before I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior. And the same applies to you as well. A new creature in Christ is about having a new and improve attitude, a new leash on life, and acquiring new attributes.

"Old things passed away..." means that by the power of the Holy Spirit, you don't have to let things from your past or that old stinkin' thinkin' keep you in bondage. You are a new and free creature in Christ, a heir to the throne, a King's son or daughter, a royal priesthood who does not have to accept things that will prevent them from springing forth into all that God has to offer.

God has imprinted Himself and all that He is in your heart. With that in mind, He will give you everything you need to become new and to maintain your newness so that you will not slip back into the old.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for allowing me to be a new creature in Your Son's precious name Jesus Christ. Give me the strength I need to maintain my newness. The former me no longer lives. I am a new and free creature in Christ Jesus. I refuse to go back, but press forward. In Jesus' Holy Name, I pray. Amen!!

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Monday's Edition!!!

2011-03-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

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I know it's Monday already!!! For some of us, it's time to get back to our regular scheduled program, work, children in school, and etc. and etc. As you begin your week...again, embrace it with all your strength and might, and remember to give God the praise and glory for seeing another week!! Most importantly, pray and ask God for strength to get you through it!!

Blessings upon blessings as you get through this week in the name of Jesus!! Amen!! "No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; or else the new piece pulls away from the old, and the tear is made worse." (Mark 2:21)

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Let The New Replace The Old

2011-03-27T10:18:00.000-07:00

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Matthew 9:17 goes along with my previous post - "Springing Forth into Something New."

"And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. The old skins would burst from the pressure, spilling the wine and ruining the skins. New wine must be stored in new wineskins. That way both the wine and the wineskins are preserved." (Matthew 9:17)

The old cannot handle the pressure of the new. I look at it like this....When it comes to God doing something new in you, it is much too powerful for the old sustain it. So, instead of God birthing something new in you while holding onto the old and risk aborting the plan that He has for, God would rather for you to let all the old go. The Past. Hurts from your childhood. Your insecurities. Scars from a previous relationships. Or anything thats preventing you from pressing forward into your new destiny.

With the power of Holy Spirit, you can let go of the old. So when God begin to pour into you....new thoughts, new vision, or a new outlook, it is preserved. And God plan for your life will be fulfilled.

LET THE NEW REPLACE THE OLD!!!

I pray in the name of Jesus that I will let go of the old. My old way of thinking, those who hurt me, failed relationships, everything that is holding me back from exploring my new horizon you have for me. I refused to be stuck in the old. I am springing forth in to something new by the power of the Holy Spirit that lives in me. In Jesus' mighty name, I pray.....Amen!!!

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Springing Forth Into Something New!!!

2011-03-26T04:57:00.000-07:00

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I am so glad that God is doing a new thing and it's springing forth!!! Changing from something old and springing into something new can be scary. But which is worst?? Something new or being stuck in a rut and staying in the old.

Before the new spring forth and arise in you, you must be willing to let go of the old. The same old thing has the tendency to make people feel comfortable and complacent. As a result, you become predictable...a bit boring. Having God birth something new (a new vision, job, business opprtunity, a level in your relationship with God, etc.) can be exciting, even overwhelming, but fun. However, it's up to you.

Allow God to do a new thing in you!!! Let Him jumpstart your heart and rejuvenate, revitalize, and refresh your spirit!! To God be the Glory!!

"Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it?" (Isaiah 43:19)

"Behold, the former things have come to pass, And new things I declare; Before they spring forth I tell you of them." (Isaiah 42:9)

Mind Changing Scriptures

2011-03-06T06:40:00.000-08:00

"And set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth." (Colossians 3:2) amp

"Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace." (Romans 8:5-6) nlt

"For those who are according to the flesh and are controlled by its unholy desires set their minds on and pursue those things which gratify the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit and are controlled by the desires of the Spirit set their minds on and seek those things which gratify the [Holy] Spirit. Now the mind of the flesh [which is sense and reason without the Holy Spirit] is death [death that comprises all the miseries arising from sin, both here and hereafter]. But the mind of the [Holy] Spirit is life and [soul] peace [both now and forever]." (Romans 8:5-6) amp

"Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]." (Romans 12:2)

"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus,..." (Philippians 2:5) nkjv

Let this same attitude and purpose and [humble] mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: [Let Him be your example in humility:]" amp

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you." (Philippians 4:8-9)

1 John 4:17-19 ~ LOVE Post

2011-02-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

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1 Corinthians 13:4-8 ~ LOVE Post #10

2011-02-13T11:26:00.000-08:00

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1 John 4:11-12 ~ LOVE Post #9

2011-02-12T13:01:00.000-08:00

"Beloved, if God so loved us,

we also ought to love one another.

No one has seen God at any time.

If we love one another, God abides in us,

and His love has been perfected in us."

(1 John 4:11-12)

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2 Thessalonians 3:5 ~ LOVE Post #8

2011-02-11T12:45:00.000-08:00

"Now may the Lord direct

your hearts into the love of God

and into the patience of Christ."

(2 Thessalonians 3:5)

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Colossians 2:2 ~ LOVE Post #7

2011-02-10T11:52:00.000-08:00

"That their hearts may be

encouraged, being knit together in love,

and attaining to all riches of the full

assurance of understanding, to the

knowledge of the mystery of God,

both of the Father and of Christ,"

(Colossians 2:2)

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1 Corinthians 13:2 ~ LOVE Post #6

2011-02-09T11:42:00.000-08:00

"And though I have the gift

of prophecy, and understand all

mysteries and all knowledge,

and though I have all faith,

so that I could remove mountains,

but have not love, I am nothing."

(1 Corinthians 13:2)

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James 1:12 ~ LOVE Post #5

2011-02-08T14:27:00.000-08:00

"Blessed is the man who endures temptation;

for when he has been approved, he will receive

the crown of life which the Lord has

promised to those who love Him. "

(James 1:12)

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Ephesians 3:17 ~ LOVE Post #4

2011-02-06T12:54:00.000-08:00

"That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith;that you, being rooted and grounded in love," (Ephesians 3:17)

(Please excuse the type-O in the graphic.I didn't realize it until after I was done.)

Galatians 5:14 ~ LOVE Post #3

2011-02-04T10:41:00.000-08:00

Depending on the type of person you are dealing with, "Loving your neighbor" can actually be easier said than done. Then again, some people can make it very hard for you to love them. But, that doesn't mean you cannot love them from afar. Most importantly, allow God to show you how to love your neighbor, whether it's being kind or just simply lending a helping hand.

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John 3:16 ~ LOVE Post #2

2011-02-03T07:55:00.000-08:00

God's love is unconditional with no strings attached. He is a flawless God who embraces and loves us, despite our imperfections. God's love gives me hope and joy. He doesn't care about our ethnicity, background, or what neighborhood I came from. God loves me for me.

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Deuteronomy 6:5 ~ LOVE Post

2011-02-02T15:51:00.000-08:00

"You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart,

with all your soul, and with all your strength."

(Deuteronomy 6:5)

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Great Weather for a Great Weekend!!!

2011-01-29T09:17:00.000-08:00

The weather is lovely down here in South Carolina. It's bright and sunny with temps in the upper 60s. This is my kind of weather....Not too hot.....Not too cold....but just right. I almost sound like Goldilocks checking out The Three Bears' porridge. :)

This weekend I will be serving at church, which I love so much. It's very dear to my heart. It gets me charged up in the spirit. Another thing I love is the fact that I get to connect and serve with my brothers and sisters in Christ. And we have so much fun!!! Instead of whistling while we work, we are laughing while we work.

It's such a blessing to be able to serve with such a great group of people. Nobody is trying to outshine anyone; Nobody is trying to be bossy or cause confusion. Everybody works as a team. And I LOVE IT!!!

So, I hope you have a bless and awesome weekend!! And If you are experiencing some great weather, take full advantage of it and have some fun!!

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A Prayer For All Families

2011-01-28T09:10:00.000-08:00

Since the beginning of the new year, so many families have been attacked by the enemy. It's either financial trouble, someone or the whole household has gotten sick, or someone has died. I am tired of it. I realize this is unacceptable. It's unacceptable that devil is trying to use our family and/or loved ones to wreak havoc in our lives.

The devil is trying to bring harm to our loved ones, so that we can lose focus on all the new things God has planned for us in 2011. This is his ammunition to bring about strife, doubt, anger, chaos within our homes and among our family. But, I am here to set the record straight.

I want all of my sisters and brothers in Christ to come in agreement with me in prayer to let the devil know......HE IS EVICTED!! He has no authority whatsoever in our homes, over our finances, over our family members, and over our children. We are more than conquerors in and through Christ Jesus. No weapon, no sickness, no financial trouble formed against us shall prosper in the mighty name of Jesus.

God's word says to SUBMIT to God, RESIST the devil, and he shall flee from us. The devil is under our feet. Furthermore, the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly (Romans 16:20). In addition to that, I declared by the power of the blood of Jesus, healing to those who are sick via the flu or anything else. It is not God's will for us to be sick. We live, move and have our being in Him. And we are the heal of the Lord that devil is trying to make sick. I stand on God's Word and His Truth. To God be the Glory in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

So please continue to pray and plead the blood of Jesus of over all families, especially for families you know who are going through a rough time. And encourage them to STAND, TRUST, AND HAVE FAITH IN GOD'S WORD no matter what it looks like. And if you have a special prayer request, feel free to email it to me, if don't want to put it as a comment.

Blessings and a hedge of protection over your family,
Toia

"And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen." (Roman 16:20)

"No weapon formed against you shall prosper....," (Isaiah 54:17)

"For in Him we live and move and have our being...," (Acts 17:28)

"Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge, Even the Most High, your dwelling place, No evil shall befall you, Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways." (Psalm 91:9-11)

"Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." (Romans 8:37)

"Speak these things, exhort,and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you." (Titus 2:15)

Beginning A New Journey

2011-01-26T13:44:00.000-08:00

I am officially embarking on a new journey. I am unable to give details at this time. First, I want to able to put a dent into my new endeavor. So, at least, I can understand more of what I want and need to do to make this new journey a succes. Many times when you start a new journey, people tend to want answers to questions that you don't even have yourself. All you know is that it feels right in your heart; It's what God placed on your heart to do as well as stepping out on faith.

A new journey can only begin when you are willing to take the first step (for others a giant leap) of faith. You may not have all the answers to your questions. You may even have to play it by ear, while taking one step at a time. That's why it's called faith. Faith is not having all the answers or not seeing what lies ahead on your new journey. However, it's trusting in God to bring about results that won't cause harm, but great success, while you give Him all the glory.

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
(Hebrews 11:1)

"...Faith without works is dead also.."
(James 2:26)

Take a moment to decide or jot down a few things you would like to accomplish in life. It can be anything like starting a business, losing weight, wanting a promotion, singing in a band, etc., etc. Don't limit yourself. There's no such thing as dream too big. Besides, dreaming is the desire in your heart to start a new journey.

Beginning a new journey can be scary, but that's quite alright. It's supposed to be scary. However, you must not scare yourself out of something spectacular that God has plan for you on your new journey. You can begin and end one of your many new endeavors along the way with God.

I encourage you to put one foot forward and start something new. One step to begin your new journey and one giant step of faith in God. As you go forth on your new journey, make sure you use every opportunity to be blessing to others and let them know how great God really is.

Waiting

2011-01-25T12:20:00.000-08:00

"Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the LORD, The Creator of the ends of the earth, Neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on 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 40:28-31)

There is nothing wrong with waiting. Waiting gives you strength, encouragement, and the ability to endure. I think one of the hardest thing to do is to wait. By nature, we are anxious beings. I believe in some way if it was up to some of us, when certain situations occur, instead of waiting on the Lord, we would (if we could)wave a magic wand so everything could be better in a blink of an eye.

They have been so many times when I have wanted an instant gratification instead of a delayed one. But, I knew what I wanted and what I needed are totally two different things. One thing I know for sure in everything I go through, I must trust in God and His plan for my life. And most importantly, I must WAIT.

In the midst of wait, there are going to be times when you feel strong; And there are going to be other times when you feel so weak. At your weakest point, when you feel you have nothing else to give, God will give you the strength and the wind beneath your wings so that you can soar over all that try to burden/weigh you down.
And I give God the glory and praise!!!

If at anytime, you get discouraged while waiting, don't be dismayed. God is closer than you think working the bad for your good!!!! "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose," (Romans 8:28)

"Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!" (Psalm 27:14)

"Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass." (Psalm 37:7)

Great Words of Wisdom

2011-01-24T16:56:00.000-08:00

"Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom.
And in all your getting, get understanding."
(Proverb 4:7)

"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,
When it is in the power of your hand to do so."
(Proverb 3:27)

"For the LORD is your security. He will keep your
foot from being caught in a trap."
(Proverb 3:26)

"A wise man will hear and increase learning,
And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel,"
(Proverb 1:5)

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
But fools despise wisdom and instruction."
(Proverb 1:7)

Psalm 42 and Psalm 43

2011-01-22T11:15:00.000-08:00

Psalm 42
AS the deer pants for the water brooks, So pants my soul for You, O God.

My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?

My tears have been my food day and night, While they continually say to me, "Where is your God?"

When I remember these things, I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go with the multitude; I went with them to the house of God, With the voice of joy and praise, With a multitude that kept a pilgrim feast.

Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance.

O my God, my soul is cast down within me; Therefore I will remember You from the land of the Jordan, And from the heights of Hermon, From the Hill Mizar.

Deep calls unto deep at the noise of Your waterfalls; All Your waves and billows have gone over me.

The LORD will command His lovingkindness in the daytime, And in the night His song shall be with me— A prayer to the God of my life.

I will say to God my Rock, "Why have You forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?"

As with a breaking of my bones, My enemies reproach me, While they say to me all day long, "Where is your God?"

Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.

Psalm 43
VINDICATE me, O God, And plead my cause against an ungodly nation; Oh, deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man!

For You are the God of my strength; Why do You cast me off? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?

Oh, send out Your light and Your truth! Let them lead me; Let them bring me to Your holy hill And to Your tabernacle.

Then I will go to the altar of God, To God my exceeding joy; And on the harp I will praise You, O God, my God.

Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.

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Psalm 42 and Psalm 43 are considered to be one in the same. Psalm 42 is about Yearning for God in the Midst of Distress. And Psalm 43 is about Prayer to God in the Time of Trouble.

In very discouraging and distressful situations, God can seem very far away, especially when under so much ridicule. Many times we may feel oppress, hopeless, fearful, weary, and alone. However, we must remember that our only hope is in God. We must seek Him through prayer, praise, worship, daily bible reading, and devotional time.

In the midst of your dreadful storm, remember God's promises and focus on them. This will keep you strong in faith.

"So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
(Romans 10:17)

Psalm 42 and Psalm 43 are perfect examples for giving God a "YET" praise. God even though I am having marital problems, Yet - I will praise You. God, even though I am in a desperate financial need, YET - I will praise you. God, even though I am having issues with my boss or co-workers, YET, I will praise you.

"Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him,For the help of His countenance."
(Psalm 42:5)

"Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God." (Psalm 42:11)

"Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God."
(Psalm 43:5)

No matter what kind of adversity you are facing or what kind of distress you are experiencing, give God a YET praise. God is moved by our "YET" praise. He loves it when we take our eyes off of our circumstance and focus on Him.

Giving God a "YET" praise in the time of distress, can give you an opportunity to take your mind off your problems. Sometimes when you take all of your energy and time and focus on everything that seems to be going wrong in your life, it can drain you dry, which can possibly lead to depression. Because the more you focus on problems, the more you can become weighted down by them.

Note from The Life Application Bible:
Depression is one the most common emotional ailments. One antidote for depression is to meditate on the record for God's goodness to His people. This will take your mind off the present situation as you focus your thoughts on God's ability to help you rather than on your inability to help yourself. When you feel depressed take adavantage of Psalms 42 and 43 antidepressant. Read the bible's account of God's goodness and meditate on them.

Heavenly Father I pray for everyone who are facing adversities or going through a distressful situation that they focus on your goodness and mercy. I pray they will give you a "YET" praise in the midst of their storm. And power by the power of the Holy Spirit and in the name of Jesus, I rebuke any inkling of depression. I put all my hope in You. In the name of Jesus, I pray....Amen.

Word-Filled Wednesday ~ Psalm 27:4

2011-01-19T14:45:00.000-08:00

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A Breath of Fresh Air

2011-01-16T16:30:00.000-08:00

We are going into our third week of the New Year and already I have heard of many of my close friends going through very hard trials an tribulations. They are people I know of whom have lost a loved one, house caught on fire, sick, got into a major car accident, and so much more. Even dealing with myself being sick and my son in the hospital due to pneumonia for the last couple of weeks, was not as bad as compare to some of things other people had to endure. Nonetheless, it was still a stressful time.

I know that the bible says we should count it all joy when go through various trial and tribulations. But at the same, it really does feel good to take in a breath of fresh air. Though we go through storms that seem a bit more than we can bear, it feels so great to have a moment to be able take in a deep breath and then.....ahhhhhh.....exhale!!

During that breath of fresh air, we should be able to bandage all or any wounds....consider it to be recovery and restoration time....a time to assess what you have been through, what you learned from the whole ordeal, and how did it make your relationship with God stronger.

Being able to breathe in between trials, instead on trial after trial, would be great. Wouldn't it??? Unfortunately, we don't have a say of how many trials we go through or when we go through them. Rest assure that no matter how many or the time of day we go through such various trials and tribulations, God will be there every step of the way leading us and guiding us; And all the while, God will be breathing a breath of fresh air on us everyday!!

"The Spirit of God has made me,
And the breath of the Almighty
gives me life." (Job 33:4)

Seeking God First!!

2011-01-14T16:49:00.000-08:00

During my blog break, I realize that I don't spend enough time studying God's Word and spending time with Him. I realize in order to go full force on the path that God has planned for me, it's going to take more than a few minutes here and there, as if God is some sort of pit-stop. OUCH!!!

There are some things that I have before the Lord (My Faith List), which I won't share at this present time. I know many of you understand. But anyway, I realize more than ever that my FAITH list can become a REALITY list. There is nothing too hard for God. And I know He is more than able to give me the desires of my heart as long as I commit my work and my ways to Him.

In addition to that, I must SEEK God FIRST!! Even though I have goals set, a FAITH list drawn out, no matter what God should be the first and the last in my life. "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you," (Matthew 6:33). That is pretty much a done deal!! As I seek God, His Kingdom, His righteousness, all things, my heart's desires, goals, my faith list, and God's plans for me shall be added, given to me. No questions ask!!

This what gets me excited.....God's Word....His Promises...His Truth!! God's Word is bond!!! So as I go on my quest to seek God, I hope I will be able to put into words and share with you all that God is doing in my life so that it can be a blessing and an encouragment to you...spirit, soul, and body.

Giving God all the Praise,
Toia

Thankful Thursday

2011-01-13T15:13:00.000-08:00

First let me say that it feels so good to be back!!! This past two weeks made me realize I would have been taking a blogging break rather I had wanted to or not. So, when God placed upon my heart to take a blogging break He knew the trials and tribulations that lie ahead.

Let me explain: For the first week of my two weeks sabbatical, I had the flu or (flu-like symptoms), which many of you know is not a picnic at all. Then, as I was starting to get back on my feet, my middle son (Michael - age 12) was beginning to feel sick. At the beginning stages, Michael seemed to have had the same flu-like symptons like I did. The only difference is that he had a fever of 102.5 and I really didn't have one. My fever was more like a low-grade, running at about 100.

Anyway, I gave him some over-the-counter cold and flu cough medicine to break his fever and it did. This was the weekend right before my children were scheduled to go back to school after the Christmas Holidays. At first Michael seemed to be getting better by Wednesday. I thought, if anything, he could go back to school Thursday (Friday the latest). But then by Wednesday night around 7pm, I noticed he was breathing heavier than normal. So to be on the safe side, I decided to take him to the emergency room. I thought (if anything) Michael was very congested. The doctor would give him a few breathing treatments to clear things, give me prescription or two, get them filled, give it to Michael when we got home and he would feel better.

However, it didn't work that way at all. The doctor ordered x-rays to be taken and came to found out Michael had pneumonia. The ER doctor was ready to give me a couple of prescriptions to get filled that would have helped clear up the pneumonia. But as part of the procedure, they had to check Michael's oxygen in his blood.

At that time, Michael's oxygen in his blood was very low. We are talking about between 80 and 84. Whereas, it suppose to be at least 95 to 100. The doctor said that wasn't good, which was the reason why Michael was breathing so heavily. So the doctor try several things to bring his oxygen level back to normal, but nothing worked. Now it's 2 o'clock in the morning (Thursday morning) and the doctor informed me that they would have to transfer Michael to MUSC hospital which is about 30-35 minutes from where we live.

MUSC is the only hospital in my lowcountry area equipped to handle cases such as Michael, especially with pneumonia. After the ambulance came to transfer Michael to the hospital, I zoomed home to get a few things (more like an overnight bag) and high-tailed it to MUSC (downtown Charleston) at around 3 in the A.M. Larry (my DH) was home with our other two children. Finally, I get to MUSC about a quarter to 4. By the time I filled out paperwork and Michael was ready, it was almost 6:30 in the morning.

The nurses immediately put Michael on oxygen at about 6 liters. Of course, by this time, Michael and I were exhausted. We were able to get at least an hour of sleep before Michael went for another x-ray. This was when the doctor realized that Michael pneumonia was more severe than they anticipated. All of it was on his lower right lobe of his lung and directly on his air sac.....Not good at all.

I prayed and declared Michael's healing in the name of Jesus. One night in the hospital turned into 6 days. Each day I thanked God for his healing, even though the healing process seemed very slow. But I am proud to announce that Michael has fully recovered. He is back in school (after missing a whole week). The oxygen in is blood is right on target!!! Hallelujah!!!

So...what am I thankful for??? You guessed it!!! Michael's healing and the strength God gave me through Jesus and by the power of the Holy Spirit to be by my son's side every day and minute. I am also thankful for my dear husband, Larry, who was more than capable of holding down the fort at home and taking care of our other two children. He brought me dinner and anything else I had needed, while I was in the hospital with Michael.

Even though the New Year got off to a rough start, I am more than thankful. It could have been worst. With that in mind, I definitely count it all joy!!!

"BLESS the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name!Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases,..."
(Psalm 103:1-3)

For more Thankful Thursday, please join Lynn @ Spiritually Unequal Marriage

Blogging After The New Year!!!

2010-12-27T12:51:00.000-08:00

Greetings My Sisters and Brothers!!!

I have decided to take a quick break from blogging until next year!! I hope everyone has had a spendid and blessed Christmas!! I know need to take some time to hear from God and see what direction or where He wants to take as we head into a New Year!!!

I know that God has so much plan for me. I just want to make sure I hear right, be obedient, and draw closer to Him in a deep intimate relationship.

I pray everyone have a safe and wonderful New Year!!!

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Carol of the Bells

2010-12-20T15:36:00.000-08:00

I love the Carol of the Bells for it's arrangement and it's 3-part harmony!! It's fun song to sing and it's music to my ears!!! Check out its history!!

Carol Of The Bells Lyrics
The Carol of the Bells lyrics were added to the original folk music from the Ukraine by Peter Wilhousky. The lyrics and words to this popular Christmas song celebrate the festive season and its traditions such as the pealing of church bells at Christmas and of the singing of Christmas Carols - caroling. The original Ukrainian lyrics to the song was entitled Shchedryk meaning bountiful and were traditionally sang to celebrate the New Year.

Trans Siberian Orchestra Carol of the Bells
Trans Siberian Orchestra Carol of the Bells version of the song combines traditional, classical music with a modern heavy metal style. The Trans Siberian Orchestra Carol of the Bells rock opera version can be found on Christmas Trilogy CD by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra which combines "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and "Carol of the Bells". This Trans-Siberian Orchestra version of Carol of the Bells was dedicated to the spirit of humanity even when war ravaged places such as those on Christmas Eve - Sarajevo 12/24. Sarejevo is located in the region of the Ukraine where the Carols of the Bells originated.

(History & Lyrics from Carols.org)

(This is light show!!)

Carol of the Bells
Hark how the bells,
sweet silver bells,
all seem to say,
throw cares away
Christmas is here,
bringing good cheer,
to young and old,
meek and the bold.
Ding dong ding dong
that is their song
with joyful ring
all caroling.
One seems to hear
words of good cheer
from everywhere
filling the air.
Oh how they pound,
raising the sound,
o'er hill and dale,
telling their tale.
Gaily they ring
while people sing
songs of good cheer,
Christmas is here.
Merry, Merry, Merry, Merry Christmas,
Merry, Merry, Merry, Merry Christmas.
On on they send,
on without end,
their joyful tone
to every home.
Ding dong ding... dong!

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Silent Night, Holy Night!!!

2010-12-17T19:42:00.000-08:00

Silent Night is deemed to be the many people's all-time favorite Christmas Carol. I think the history of this glorious carol is very interesting!!!

Silent Night!
The origin of the Christmas carol we know as Silent Night was a poem that was written in 1816 by an Austrian priest called Joseph Mohr. On Christmas Eve in 1818 in the small alpine village called Oberndorf it is reputed that the organ at St. Nicholas Church had broken. Joseph Mohr gave the poem of Silent Night (Stille Nacht) to his friend Franz Xavier Gruber and the melody for Silent Night was composed with this in mind. The music to Silent Night was therefore intended for a guitar and the simple score was finished in time for Midnight Mass. Silent Night is the most famous Christmas carol of all time!

Silent Night

Silent night, holy night
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon Virgin Mother and Child
Holy Infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight
Glories stream from heaven afar
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!
Christ, the Saviour is born
Christ, the Saviour is born

Silent night, holy night
Son of God, love's pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth "

Carols.org

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Start Your Week Off With A Laugh ~ Schizo Cat!!!

2010-12-13T14:16:00.000-08:00

Okay I decided to give the webcam another try!!! Hehehehehehe!!!

"Hearty laughter is a good way to jog internally without having to go outdoors." -Norman Cousins

"I am thankful for laughter, except when milk comes out of my nose." -Woody Allen

(Laughter Quotes are from BrainyQuote.com)

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Joy To The World!!!

2010-12-12T15:22:00.000-08:00

Joy to the World is another great Christmas song. "Joy to the world; the Lord has come..."

Brief History: The words and lyrics of the old Christmas carol 'Joy to the World' were written in 1719 by Isaac Watts (1674-1748). Joy to the World is a popular Christmas carol which is based on Psalm 98 in the Bible. The father of John Watts was a Non-conformist and so extreme were his views that he was imprisoned twice. His father's influence over Isaac was demonstrated when he choose to attend Nonconformist Academy at Stoke Newington in preference to a University. Watts was ordained as a Pastor of an Independent congregation. He wrote many hymns and Carols and was awarded a Doctor of Divinity degree by the the University of Edinburgh in 1728. The music to the carol is by George Frederick Handel (1685-1759). History from Carols.org

Joy To The World
Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the world, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love.

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"Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth;
Break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises.
Sing to the LORD with the harp,
With the harp and the sound of a psalm,
With trumpets and the sound of a horn;
Shout joyfully before the LORD, the King."
(Psalm 98:4-6)

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O Holy Night!!

2010-12-07T12:37:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things (and there are many) is CHRISTmas Carols. There are so many CHRISTmas Carols that can just usher in God's presence as well as bring joy to your spirit. O Holy Night is one them. A brief history: The words and lyrics of the old carol 'O Holy Night' were written by Placide Cappeau de Roquemaure in 1847. Cappeau was a wine seller by trade but was asked by the parish priest to write a poem for Christmas. He obliged and wrote the beautiful words of the hymn. He then realised that it should have music to accompany the words and he approached his friend Adolphe Charles Adams(1803-1856). He agreed and the music for the poem was therefore composed by Adolphe Charles Adams. Adolphe had attended the Paris conservatoire and forged a brilliant career as a composer. It was translated into English by John Sullivan Dwight (1812-1893). (See Carols.org)

O Holy Night

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born;
O night, O holy night, O night divine!
O night, O holy night, O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
O'er the world a star is sweetly gleaming,
Now come the wisemen from out of the Orient land.
The King of kings lay thus lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friends.
He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!

"For there is born to you this day
in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."
(Luke 2:11)

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Start Your Week Off With A Laugh ~ Crazy Video

2010-12-06T12:34:00.000-08:00

This is a video I made of me (but not exactly me.) I felt a wee bit silly just playin around with my webcam. I thought I might share it. Hopefully, it will put a smile on your face. Enjoy!!!

"A sense of humor... is needed armor. Joy in one's heart and some laughter on one's lips is a sign that the person down deep has a pretty good grasp of life." -Hugh Sidey

"A day without laughter is a day wasted." -Charlie Chaplin

(Quotes from Brainy Quote)

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Christmas Poem

2010-12-05T06:40:00.000-08:00

C is for the Child born that night to be our light.
(John 8:12)

H is for holy is His name. (Rev.4:8)

R is for rejoice with gladness & joy. (Luke 1:14)

I is for Immanuel, God with us. (Is.7:14,) (John 1:14)

S is for the star that led the Wise men to Him. (Matt.2:2)

T is for the truth & grace that was sent our way.
(John 1:14)

M is for Mother Mary laying Him in swaddling clothes in the manger. (Luke 2:7)

A is for angels singing songs of joy. (Luke 2:14)

S is for salvation. (Romans 10:10)

Poem by Johnnie DesRochers

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Saturday Psalm Reading ~ Psalm 149:1-6

2010-12-04T10:21:00.000-08:00

Psalm 149:1-6
PRAISE the LORD! Sing to the LORD a new song,
And His praise in the assembly of saints.

Let Israel rejoice in their Maker;
Let the children of Zion be joyful in their King.

Let them praise His name with the dance;
Let them sing praises to Him with the timbrel and harp.

For the LORD takes pleasure in His people;
He will beautify the humble with salvation.

Let the saints be joyful in glory;
Let them sing aloud on their beds.

Let the high praises of God be in their mouth,
And a two-edged sword in their hand,

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Thankful Thursday

2010-12-02T21:24:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for Christmas. I am thankful that God had seen fit to send His Son to earth in the form of flesh. I am thankful that Jesus' birth changed everything for the best. I am thankful that I don't see Christmas as just merely buying gifts for family, friends, and co-workers, but as the celebration of Jesus' birth.

"For there is born to you this day in the city
of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."
(Luke 2:11)

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For more of your Thankful Thursday, visit Iris @ Grace Alone

Word-Filled Wednesday ~ 1 John 1:7

2010-12-01T19:55:00.000-08:00

Hosted By: Amydeanne @ The 160 Acre Woods

Start Your Week Off With A Laugh!!!!

2010-11-29T15:27:00.000-08:00

After a 4-day weekend, due to Thanksgiving, it was kind of hard getting back to my weekly schedule program (work, school, etc.) Though I enjoyed every minute of being off, I know it was time to face the inevitable....Monday. So embrace Monday....again, why not start it off with a laugh. Below are just a couple of stories, that made me laugh or even put a smile on my face.

A Little Boy's Prayer

"Dear God, please take care of my daddy and my mommy and my sister and my brother and my doggy and me.

Oh, please take care of yourself, God. If anything happens to you, we're gonna be in a big mess."

An Atheist In The Woods

An atheist was taking a walk through the woods, admiring all that the accident of evolution had created. "What majestic trees! What powerful rivers! What beautiful animals!" he said to himself.

As he walked alongside the river he heard a rustling in the bushes behind him. He turned to look, just in time to see a 7-foot grizzly charge towards him. He ran as fast as he could up the path. He looked over his shoulder & saw the bear closing in on him. He tried to run even faster, so scared that tears were coming to his eyes. He looked over his shoulder again, and the bear was even closer.

His heart was pumping frantically as he tried to run even faster, but he tripped and fell on the ground. He rolled over to pick himself up and saw the bear right on top of him raising his paw to kill him.

At that instant, he cried out, "Oh my God!"

Just then, time stopped... The bear froze; the forest was silent; even the river stopped moving. A bright light shone upon the man, and a voice came out of the sky, saying, "You deny My existence all of these years; teach others I don't exist; even credit My creation to a cosmic accident, and now do you expect Me to help you out of this predicament? Am I to count you as a believer?"

The atheist, ever so proud, looked into the light and said, "It would be rather hypocritical to ask to be a Christian after all these years. But could you make the bear a Christian?"

"Very well," said the voice.

As the light went out, the river ran, the sounds of the forest continued, and the bear put his paw down. The man breathed a sigh of relief. Then the bear brought both paws together, bowed his head and said: "Lord, I thank you for this food, which I am about to receive."

Stories from Christian Stories

"A person who can bring the spirit of laughter into a room is indeed blessed." -Bennett Cerf

"At the height of laughter, the universe is flung into a kaleidoscope of new possibilities." -Jean Houston

Hallelujah Chorus!!

2010-11-27T12:04:00.000-08:00

I saw this on one of my friend's facebook page and thought this will make a great post. I hope you enjoy it!!! Have a bless weekend!!!

"Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!" (Revelation 11:15)

Thanksgiving Post #15 and Thankful Thursday

2010-11-25T10:04:00.000-08:00

"But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory [making us conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be firm (steadfast), immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord [always being superior, excelling, doing more than enough in the service of the Lord], knowing and being continually aware that your labor in the Lord is not futile [it is never wasted or to no purpose]." (1 Corinthians 15:57-58)

I am thankful for having the victory in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I am thankful for steadfastness and the ability (through the power of the Holy Spirit) to be immovable and always abounding in God's work so that it will not be in vain. I am thankful that I serve a mighty God.

Join our hostess, Laurie @ Women Taking A Stand.

Even though this is my last Thanksgiving Post, I will not cease to give thanks to my almighty and powerful God. Thanksgiving Holiday may only comes once a year. However, we should always and continue to give thanks in the name of Jesus every single day. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you and May you continue to give thanks to all that God has done and what He is about to do.

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Thanksgiving Post #14 & Word-Filled Wednesday

2010-11-24T15:12:00.000-08:00

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." (John 3:16-17)

I am thankful for God's love. Because of His Love, I am save, free from sin, and will live and not die. Everlasting life is part of my salvation benefits. I thank you God in the name of your precious Son's name Jesus!!! Hallelujah!!

"My heart will sing no other name. Jesus!! Jesus!!"

Hosted By: Amydeanne @ The 160 Acre Woods

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Thanksgiving Post #13

2010-11-23T12:32:00.000-08:00

"Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name."
(Psalm 30:4)

"Rejoice in the LORD, you righteous, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name." (Psalm 97:12)

"...For You alone are holy. For all nations shall come and worship before You,..." (Revelation 15:4)

I am thankful for my church and our choir. I love singing on the choir. It's such an awesome and glorious experience. When you are able to praise and worship God on a corporate level, you can feel God's Holy Presence fill the room in a way that's majestic. It's almost like Disney World. You have to experience it for yourself. The video above is our choir singing this past weekend. It was a spectacular service. One of the songs we sang was, "Lord, You Holy!". The words to the song describe everything who God is and more. I am thankful for all that God is and bless to have an opportunity as well as the freedom to experience such a true, powerful, holy, and living God.

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Thanksgiving Post #11

2010-11-22T16:49:00.000-08:00

"Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms." (Psalm 95:2)

I am thankful that my mom is celebrating her 64th birthday today. I am so blessed to still have her in my life. My children loves and adore her as do me. I pray that God will continue to bless her with many. many more birthdays!!!

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Thanksgiving Post #10

2010-11-21T16:29:00.000-08:00

"Let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, And declare His works with rejoicing." (Psalm 107:22)

"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you." (John 14:26)

I am thankful for Jesus carrying out God's plan so that we can have the Holy Spirit living on the inside of us. Our Comforter. Our Helper. Our Guidance. That teaches all things!! We need the Holy Spirit. I thank God in the name of Jesus because He knew the law would not be enough for us to live the God kind of life He intended for us to live. All praise and All Honor belong to You!!!

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Thanksgiving Post #9

2010-11-20T15:41:00.000-08:00

"Offer to God thanksgiving, And pay your vows to the Most High." (Psalm 50:14)

"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27)

I am thankful for God's peace. You know...the kind of peace that surpasses all understanding. When I am out sorts within myself or when my mind jumps from one thought to another, I can pray to God for peace. Peace in my spirit. A peace of mind. He is my peace and worship Him!!! Thank you Jesus!!!

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Thankfsgiving Post #8

2010-11-19T15:13:00.000-08:00

"That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving, And tell of all Your wondrous works." (Psalm 26:7)

I am thankful for Fridays. I love that after a long work, I can relax on Friday. I can just put my feet up and say, "Awwwww!!" And the best part is I can sleep in a little later on Saturday. (That is....if I don't have any early morning plans.) Blessings!!!

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Thanksgiving Post #7

2010-11-18T14:16:00.000-08:00

"Therefore I will give thanks to You, O LORD, among the Gentiles, And sing praises to Your name." (2 Samuel 22:50)

I am thankful for technology. I love that I can blog, email, or even stay in touch with my family and friends via facebook. Because of technology such as internet, I can talk to people hundreds to thousands of miles away, without running my phone bill up sky high. It's amazing how technology has evolve. And I thank God!! Using it in a right way, technology can be use to spread to gospel of Jesus Christ, which is such a blessing!!

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Thanksgiving Post #6 & Word-Filled Wednesday

2010-11-17T12:12:00.000-08:00

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;"
(Philippians 4:6)

I am thankful that I don't have to worry or be anxious for anything. I just have to give it to God in the mighty name of Jesus by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving. And He will take care of the rest. Hallelujah and Amen!!!

Hosted By: Amydeanne @ The 160 Acre Woods

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Thanksgiving Post #5

2010-11-16T03:09:00.000-08:00

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." (Colossians 2:6-7) (NIV)

"...Let there be thankfulness to God."
(Ephesian 5:4) (NLT)

"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God." (Colossians 3:16) (ESV)

I am thankful that God is a healer. These past couple of days I was under the weather with flu/virus like symptoms. I couldn't really eat anything besides saltine crackers. However, I am much better now. In Jesus' name, I thank God for my healing. I live and move and have my being in Him!! Hallelujah and Amen!!!

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Thanksgiving Post #4

2010-11-15T16:20:00.000-08:00

"Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom, Thanksgiving and honor and power and might, Be to our God forever and ever. Amen." (Revelation 7:12)

"We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, The One who is and who was and who is to come, Because You have taken Your great power and reigned." (Revelation 11:17)

I am thankful for my washer and dryer. It's a blessing that I can wash and dry clothes in the comfort of my home. I don't have to haul baskets of clothes (and quarters) to the laundromat. I don't have to wait my turn to use a dryer that takes almost $2 - $4 just to dry one load of clothes. In everything, I give God the praise in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen and Hallelujah!!!

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Thanksgiving Post #3

2010-11-14T12:47:00.000-08:00

"And when you offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving to the LORD, offer it of your own free will." (Leviticus 22:29)

"For in the days of David and Asaph of old there were chiefs of the singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving to God." (Nehemiah 12:46)

"I will praise the name of God with a song, And will magnify Him with thanksgiving."
(Psalm 69:30)

Many countries have to hide the fact that they are a Christian. I am thankful that I have the freedom worship and praise God. I don't have be undercover or watch my back. It's my free will choice to give the Lord Most High a sacrifice of Thanksgiving and Praise eveyday. In Jesus' name, I let out shouts of joy and thanksgiving!!

"In your freedom I will live!! In Your freedom I will live!! I offer devotion!! I offer devotion!!"

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Thanksgiving Post#2

2010-11-13T10:45:00.000-08:00

"Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever." (Psalm 118:29)

"Surely the righteous shall give thanks to Your name; The upright shall dwell in Your presence." (Psalm 140:13)

I give thanks for waking up in a warm and cozy house this morning. I pray that things I may take for granted I won't anymore; And would always remember to give thanks to the Lord. His mercy, His Love, His kindness endure forever and ever.

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Thanksgiving Post #1

2010-11-12T15:08:00.000-08:00

"We give thanks to You, O God, we give thanks! For Your wondrous works declare that Your name is near." (Psalm 75:1)

"It is good to give thanks to the LORD, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High."(Psalm 92:1)

"Rejoice in the LORD, you righteous, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name."(Psalm 97:12)

I love Thanksgiving!! Everyday should be Thanksgiving - Giving Thanks to our Most High God for sacrificing His Son Jesus so that we may live. Giving Thanks to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for dying on the cross so that we may have a Comforter, a Helper.

Just like Psalm 92:1 says, "It is good to give thanks to the LORD, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High." Each day give thanks to the Lord for everything He has done and everything He is about to do!!!

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Word-Filled Wednesday ~ 1 Thessalonians 1:3

2010-11-10T14:32:00.000-08:00

Hosted By: Amydeanne @ The 160 Acre Woods

Something To Think About....

2010-11-08T15:05:00.000-08:00

I was looking for a joke or funny video for my "Start My Week Off With A Laugh" Post and came across this. I had to post it instead. My first response after reading it was, "WoW!!"

The Cleaning Woman

There was a little old cleaning woman that went to the local church. When the invitation was given at the end of the service, she went forward wanting to become a member. The pastor listened as she told him how she had accepted Jesus and wanted to be baptized and become a member of the church.

The pastor thought to himself, "oh my, she is so unkempt, even smells a little, and her fingernails are not clean. She picks up garbage, cleans toilets - what would the members think of her." He told her that she needed to go home and pray about it and then decide.

The following week, here she came again. She told the pastor that she had prayed about it and still wanted to be baptized. "I have passed this church for so long. It is so beautiful, and I truly want to become a member."

Again the pastor told her to go home and pray some more. A few weeks later while out eating at the restaurant, the pastor saw the little old lady. He did not want her to think that he was ignoring her so he approached her and said, "I have not seen you for a while. Is everything all right?"

"Oh, yes," she said. "I talked with Jesus, and he told me not to worry about becoming a member of your church."

"He did?" said the pastor.

"Oh, yes" she replied. "He said even He hasn't been able to get into your church yet, and He's been trying for years."

Author is Unknown

"That He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish." (Ephesians 5:27)

"But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." (John 4:23-24)

"But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (I Samuel 16:7)

Saturday Psalm Reading ~ Psalm 20

2010-11-06T14:12:00.000-07:00

Psalm 20

MAY the LORD answer you in the day of trouble;
May the name of the God of Jacob defend you;

May He send you help from the sanctuary,
And strengthen you out of Zion;

May He remember all your offerings,
And accept your burnt sacrifice. Selah

May He grant you according to your heart's
desire, And fulfill all your purpose.

We will rejoice in your salvation, And in the name
of our God we will set up our banners!
May the LORD fulfill all your petitions.

Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed;
He will answer him from His holy heaven
With the saving strength of His right hand.

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses;
But we will remember the
name of the LORD our God.

They have bowed down and fallen;
But we have risen and stand upright.

Save, LORD! May the King answer us when we call.

Thankful Thursday Post

2010-11-04T12:37:00.000-07:00

I am thankful that where I am in life right now is not where I am going to stay. God has a great things in store for me. I am thankful that when I am feeling discouraged, worn, weary, or an other icky feeling, I can take it to the Lord in prayer and believe without a shadow of doubt that He has already worked it out.

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11)

"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." (Galatians 6:9)

"I WILL lift up my eyes to the hills— From whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel Shall neither slumber nor sleep." (Psalm 121 1-4)

"So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them."
(Mark 11:22-24)

For more Thankful Thursday, please join this month's hostess, Laurie @ Women Taking A Stand.

Word-Filled Wednesday ~ Psalm 77:6

2010-11-03T12:47:00.000-07:00

"I call to remembrance my song in the night;
I meditate within my heart,
And my spirit makes diligent search."
(Psalm 77:6)

Hosted By: Amydeanne @ The 160 Acre Woods

Start This Week Off With A Laugh ~ #2

2010-11-01T15:58:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I like to use baby videos because:

1. They are so cute and adorable.

2. You can't help but laugh at them.

3. There are such amazing gifts from God!!

"A laugh is a smile that bursts." -Mary H. Waldrip

Difficulty is What Difficulty Does...

2010-10-29T14:36:00.000-07:00

Do you ever tend to make things more difficult than what they should be? I would raise my hand but I am typing this post right now. I don't make things difficult all the time, but enough. I get frustrated with myself as far as overthinking things. As a result, I end wasting a lot of time and not accomplishing anything. When this happen, I have to pause and pray to God for knowledge, understanding, even a sense of direction.

All this "making thing difficult" is only the result of me trying to lean on my own understanding. I know that God will deliver me of this. I will let go and let God flow. His ways are not my ways, and they are whole lot easier.

I refer to Proverb 3:3-6 and also one of my life scriptures
Psalm 25:4-5.

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." (Proverb 3:5-6)

"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."

Heavenly Father, Thank you for helping me not to make things harder on me than it has to be. I pray that I will always incline my ear to your word and instruction. I no longer lean to my own understanding, but I will always acknowledge you. So, that you will direct my paths. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Picture from Photobucket

Thankful Thursday ~ Life Scriptures

2010-10-28T12:25:00.000-07:00

This Thankful Thursday is about your life scripture. I have about three life scriptures/passages that I refer to often.

"For we are His workmanship (His masterpiece, His poem, His orignal creation), created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10) emphasis added

We are created in God's image. And everything He made is good. We were made for good works, to give God the glory, to preach the gospel, to win souls for Christ, and anything else that is and will edify the kingdom of God. So, when satan tries to imprint lies in my head about failures, mistakes, and/or shame. I remind him of this scripture and what God says. I am created for God and by God.

"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)

There comes a time or two, where I may find myself a little off track or need a sense of direction. When I am feeling that way, I remind myself of this scripture. And I pray and ask God to show me, teach me, guide me, and lead me. He's the only who knows my destination, so why not ask Him to show me the ways in which I should go. Even if I have to wait for directions and/or instructions, I will. But while I wait, I would be and remain steadfast in my faith. And wait on the Lord and be of good courage.

For my Thankful Thursday, visit our host, Lynn of Spiritually Unequal Marriage.

Start Your Week Off With A Laugh!!!

2010-10-25T10:36:00.000-07:00

Sometimes Mondays can be very stressful, especially if you are starting a new work-week or getting children ready and off to school. Let's just say for some, it's a not-so-fun day. So, I thought why not start your week off with a laugh. Here are a couple of videos I found on photobucket that may me giggle. Check them out!!

Vote for Your Favorite One!!

Video #1 - Crazy Talking Cat!!!

Video #2 - Giggle-Box Baby

Refreshing Waters

2010-10-24T08:07:00.000-07:00

Refreshing Waters

Sometimes I feel I’m in a desert
Trying to find my way
The heat beating down with no relief
With no shelter through the day

Day and night I cry out to God
That He will come to my aid
And just when I feel like giving up
In His refreshing waters I wade

For God supplies streams of hope
That flows to wash over me
It seems, though, for a brief moment
A short and temporal relief

Then once again I’m in the desert
Enduring the heat and the wind
Not long, O Lord, I start to pant
For refreshing waters within

I have to stop and ask myself
Why am I where I am?
It seems I’m wondering aimlessly
With no purpose, direction or plan

I long O God to find a way out
No longer to be in this place
When O God shall I be released
And dwell in your mercy and grace?

I long for your refreshing waters
To daily be part of my life
To continually be immersed in the streams
Of the blessings that flow from Christ.

© By M.S.Lowndes

"Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord," (Acts 3:19)

"but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14)

Saturday Psalm Reading ~ Psalm 111:1-4

2010-10-23T10:40:00.000-07:00

Psalm 111:1-4

Praise the LORD! I will praise the LORD with my whole heart,
In the assembly of the upright and in the congregation.

Heavenly Father I give you all the praise. I praise with all that is within me. No matter where I am or where I am going, it is You that I praise.

The works of the LORD are great, Studied by all who have pleasure in them.

You a great God! Marvelous are your works. We take joy in everything you have done and everything that you are about to do.

His work is honorable and glorious, And His righteousness endures forever.

I give you all the glory and honor for all that you have done. Lord you are good and your mercy and righteousness endure forever.

He has made His wonderful works to be remembered; The LORD is gracious and full of compassion.

I will never cease to give you praise and glory for all your works. I stand in awe of you. You are a loving, compassionate, and faithful God!!

Humble as a Child

2010-10-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

AT THAT time the disciples came up and asked Jesus, Who then is [really] the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And He called a little child to Himself and put him in the midst of them, And said, Truly I say to you, unless you repent (change, turn about) and become like little children [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving], you can never enter the kingdom of heaven [at all]. Whoever will humble himself therefore and become like this little child [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving] is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 18:1-4)

To be or not be humble? That is the question. However, to be humble is the right answer. Many people might think humble is a sign of weakness. I am here to tell you that is simply not true. According to the bible, humility is a great thing, especially if that's your ticket to heaven.
Dictionary.com defines humble as:

1. not proud or arrogant; modest: to be humble although successful.

2. having a feeling of insignificance, inferiority, subservience, etc.: In the presence of so many world-famous writers I felt very humble.

3. low in rank, importance, status, quality, etc.; lowly: of humble origin; a humble home.

4. courteously respectful: In my humble opinion you are wrong.

5. low in height, level, etc.; small in size: a humble member of the galaxy.

God wants us to be humble. That's a wonderful characteristic to possess. God doesn't want us to prideful, arrogant, or have a huge ego. Humbling ourselves before God is acknowledging Him as having full authority over our lives.

Humble(s) - [tapeinoo; Strong's #5013] - Literally, "to make lowly," debase, humble, lower oneself. It describes a person who is devoid of all arrogance and self-exaltation - a person who is willingly submitted to God and His will. (The Spirit-Filled Bible)

We should come humbly God, worshipping Him in Spirit and in truth (John 4:24). Imagine lowering yourself from adultlikeness to childlikeness. How wonderful is that. Pursuing God with a lowly, loving, and forgiving heart is what He wants and desires from us. Please God wants to be childlike not childish. There is a big difference. Childlike spirit is one of the many keys to understanding God's kingdom.

Heavenly Father, I pray that we will always enter into your presence with a childlike spirit. Dear Father, I ask for forgiveness for all the times I have been prideful, stubborn, and/or even arrogant. You are my one true God. Thank you Jesus!! Amen.

Thankful Thursday

2010-10-21T15:09:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for my husband. He's a handyman, a great husban and father to our three wonderful children. Not to mention, he is a hard worker, not a single lazy bone in our body. He's a great man of God, which is definitely a plus!! =D

If I am ever under the weather (which is not very often), I don't have to worry about the house falling apart. He will step up to the plate to cook dinner and make sure our children get showered up and ready for bed.

And we always laugh together and joke about whatever. So, I am thankful for my lovely husband (Larry). I can't picture my life without him.

Now 10 things you don't know about me. Mmmmmmm let's see....

1. I can't stand how cotton feels. It makes me cringe!!!
2. I never been to Hawaii and I would love to go.
3. I am the only girl out of four children.
4. I love to watch movies (mainly romantic comedies and action)
5. I love crafting but don't as much as I like to.
6. I desire to own my own business.
7. One of my favorite movies of all time is "Ever After."
8. I tend to make people laugh a lot (not all the time on purpose; it just happens).
9. I love to take pictures as well as be in them.
10. It took me forever to think of ten things that you don't know about me. :)

For more Thankful Thursday, visit Lynn at Spiritually Unequal Marriage.