It's been a while...

I hope you all had a memorable Christmas, whether good or bad. The fact that Jesus left His glorious home above, full of praises for Him, adoration and love, to be born in a stinky, cold cave like barn, to poor, young, innocent parents. To then grow up in a mean, selfish spirited society full of God haters, knowing He would die for those exact people and us, not much different than them. Suffer a cruel, unfair judgement and penalty for being who He truly was; our Saviour.
Our Christmas was truly different but I've learnt through my saved years that God has a genuine sense of humor.
We had no running water in the house and the toilets had been taken out to get things ready for the plumber. That was ok because my parents live only 5 minutes away, so we were taking our showers there and getting water there. As for the purging needs, we had a toilet in the R.V.... until it got bitter cold and froze what was inside the reservoir. :/ This meant we could no longer use our "facility". We called everywhere to see if we could find a place to live which would be cheap for the next month or so. Long story short, I went to Lawton's drugs and got a "chapeau", meant for measuring urine, and placed that on the toilet. (Sorry for the details lol)
This allowed us to stay in the RV since every other place wanted to charge between 1295$ and 2400$. We prefered saving that money and putting it on the house, plus, this would keep the momentum on the finishing of the house.
On the 24th, the plumber came to install a temporary toilet but with the cold in the house, the water pump cracked... so we were back to the "chapeau".
Our pastor and his wife invited us to stay over at their house for a few days until we had our "facility" fixed.
This is where the humor begins. I thought that we should get our pastor and his wife a gift to thank them for their hospitality. My husband called to say he had thought the SAME, so we had two gifts to give them. When we arrived at our pastor's and his wife's home, we gave them our gift which was wrapped, and they brought us to our room which, on the dresser, was the SAME gift, but not wrapped. My husband and I chuckled as we waited for Mrs. Seely to unwrap their gift. She thought it was histaricle since with the size of our city and the choice of stores and gifts, what are the odds of getting the SAME gift?
The next morning, we prepared breakfast and got ready for the opening of gifts by wrapping some gifts. Our family gifts were in a Costco bag. Soon the bottom of the tree was filled with beautifully wrapped gifts, then we put the children and our gifts under. To our amazement, every single gift had the SAME wrapping paper.
HELLO!?!
In the midst of a vastly different Christmas for our family, God found a way to bring not only some humor, but some SAMEness.
Today is New Year's Eve. We are expecting a blizzard tonight and tomorrow but the roof of the old part of the house is almost all shingled and the addition has roofing, the interior damage should be minimal.
I've put up more photos in our album, be sure to check it out.
I want to extend warm hopes of a great year 2009 for you and your family. I pray that you will either find the narrow way that brings comfort, peace and salvation (John 14:6, "I am the way, the Truth and the life, no man cometh unto the Father but by me." said Jesus), or stand firm and draw closer to Him as this year will pass by us just as quickly as 2008 has.
Look for YOUR purpose.

OK!?......

I've never physically been punched in the face and had those birds chirping around my head, my eyes turning in circles, like the cartoons do but I'm sitting here with a feeling of being able to relate to that feeling. Not necessarily the hit but cartoon effect after the blow.
Those of you in this area have felt the effects of the storm that was a bit mysterious. The details of it kept changing. I thought maybe it was one of those weather "events" that would just not happen. (ha ha... jokes on me)
I "wish" I could effectively communicate the experience of being in the RV and the journey of this all. It's not really bad in a physical sense although it requires adjustment to the environment; space wise, and it requires a lot of mental preparation and emotional strength. I must be honest, I have no idea how a person who has no personal relationship with God could go through this. I have Him by my side, coaching me through the frustrating times and holding me close in the discouraging times.
My deaf friends gave me a Christmas gift with the footprints poem on it and it is so true. I have the same poem on my bible case. I really like that poem.
Last night, the RV rocked back and forth in the wind and I could hear the tarp, on the roof of the house, flapping in the wind. I heard the boards slapping against one another and wondered if the house would make it through the storm. I got out of bed a few times to check through the window and saw that it was still standing. With a sigh of relief, I noticed the back door had flung open so I put on my boots and raced over to the house to close it. I went in at first to get my ketch my breath and saw the snow drifts in the basement and in the mudroom. I had decided that I had to make sure that door didn't open again. I closed it shut and pulled on it as hard as I could but it slipped out of jam. I worked at it for a while and finally it stayed but this morning my husband told me it was open again.
You know, it sort of like us isn't it? Jesus says in Revelation 3:320, "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." Sometimes, especially those who have never accepted Jesus Christ as their Saviour, see the door, maybe even hear the knock on the door of our heart, and do everything in our power to make sure the door stays shut. We don't want to let Jesus in to have an effect on us, change us, cover our sins and transgressions against God and make us "white as snow." Says Isaiah 1:18 "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. "
I must say, I'm really starting to have that ownership feeling for the house. I went upstairs and saw all that snow on the floor and wanted to clear it out. In some places, there was over 2' of snow. I nailed the boards back up, put some other one on some holes, push some snow over but the wind kept blowing it back in. I felt heavy in my heart for my home. Wanting so much to make it right, make it my home once and for all. Oddly enough, although everything is in a mess right now, it's my home. I'm so looking forward to being able to be living inside my home and warming it up, keeping it clean, and filling it up with the Lord's presence. I hope I get to do that soon. It's like Dorothy says in the movie, "The Wizard of Oz", "There's no place like home".
It obviously makes me think of Heaven and how much better that place will be.
There's no place like home....

(don't forget to check out the update photos in my album)

Just moving along

So much has been happening at the house and the Lord has been showing me so much in the last days, it's really exciting.
First, my dad is home for the next 3 weeks, for Christmas. He works out in Alberta, as for my brother. It's REALLY nice to have him home. My brother arrives this Friday. It will be so nice to have us all together for a little while.
The house is coming along really well. They, notice it's not "we"...lol, gutted all the inside of the entire house. We didn't expect to have to do all that but since we found quite a few dead rats and mice, my husband decided it would be best. This will make it easier for the plumber and electrician to do their job. The house needs to be completely rewired and the plumbing needs to be redone. If you check out our photo album, you'll see the updated pictures and you'll see the work "Pitou" and his brother did yesterday, in the storm.
I need to brag on "Pitou" for a minute because I was taught to give credit where credit is due. If you are planning on doing ANY type of building or renovating, I highly recommend "Deveau Framing". "Pitou" who's real name is Francis... don't ask... worked out in Calgary but is from here and is a good worker, takes his work seriously and does it well. My husband is VERY happy with his work because he takes the time it needs to do things right but is not a slow worker. He knows what he's doing and it shows.
There.... lol
As for what the Lord has been showing me... He has been showing me so many things in His word but the one that stands out the most is for my kids. Proverbs 16:6 says, "By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil." God showed me and pressed on my heart when I read this that by showing mercy (compassion, pity, or benevolence) to my children and remembering to constantly expose them to truth (the bible) my children will have the tools for better discernment, and making the right choices.
Another thing in particular was Proverbs 17:1 "Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife." It is better to live in the RV and love one another, be kind one to another etc than work hard on the house and be fighting, arguing and being bitter. Our house will not be a home if so many people helped to build it and we, the family, couldn't stop being selfish, bitter and resentful to help build our home.
I want our house to be a home where people love to and receive blessing and sense the love and compassion that our Lord has been more than generous with toward us; towards me.
I love my Jesus so much but I fail to show it as much as I should. He has been so merciful, kind, compassionate and forgiving that I should mirror that back to others. I want Him to have the freedom to show Himself in our home so that others will be drawn to Him.
Keep close to Him.

What's up!

Well, things are progressing at the house. We don't realize how much TV changes our way of thinking until you have a similar experience and somehow the TV show becomes a seed of resentment, envy and confusion.
What am I talking about?
Take "Extreme Makeovers the Home Edition" They have huge houses demolished and rebuilt in 7 days and in our television experience, 7 days is equivalent to 1 hour.
Now compare that to our experience. ahhhhhhh you get it! Here we are, working on week 7 of the renovation and things are not quite where I'd like them to be. I expected to be decorating my home for Christmas, having friends over and enjoying my home, although in the process of renovations, not quite to this extreme.
This has really been, thus far, a lesson in God's timing and will for things. One can wonder and try to understand why the house can't be liveable but why bother? Will it change anything? It's better just to trust and wait on the Lord for His timing.
At first, I mean, wayyyyyyy at first, when we still lived on the Bahama.... :/ the kitchen would be the very last thing worked on so I was to be patient and not expect great things with it until the rest of the house was done. I agreed and didn't become bitter. Low and behold, the kitchen will be the first indoor thing to be completed. I wonder if God chose to bless my good attitude?!
This is a perfect example that I feel God is using to remind me that everything is under control. The weather we've been having is another example of His faithfullness.
I want to have peace in my life and although being in my new home would be great, it would not garantee peace. If I wait on God and choose to be in His will, accepting where we are with the renos and wait for His timing, I am garanteed peace. Exd 33:14 "And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest."
There was some work done on the house so I've put a new album for you to see. There are some before and not quite afters to check out so enjoy!
Keep the peace.

Getting ready for the weekend

We are blessed to see on the weather channel that we are expecting sun on Saturday so "we" will be tearing off the existing roof and building it new plus the addition.
It's a good thing since we had mighty wind yesterday and A LOT of rain so we had some flooding in the existing house and a lot of water in the basement of the addition. Good thing they are divided by a wall for now.
My eldest son has a hockey tournament so most of Saturday will be on the road for the children and myself, while the men build the roof.
Just wanted to share a funny video with you.
I laughed so hard everytime I saw it, I hope you enjoy it just as much.
Keep smilling! (makes people wonder what you've been up to)

I should know better.... :/

Yesterday, I shared about how God put on my heart to guard my spirit with protective walls, which will prevent defeat when I'm provoked.
So... I went to bed at a reasonable hour, read my bible and prayed in the morning, while the kids were still in bed and quiet and made sure I had breakfast early enough. Sigh... provoked I was, but I was victorious all day. Tonight, I started getting tired so I was getting wearing and my city walls were not so strong.
What happened? The list is long and I could not express it in a way that would demonstrate the level of needed prayer which had to be done, but here is the list.
I had my day all planned out (mistake number 1, Psalm 27:1 says, "Boast not thyself of tomorrow, for thou knoweth not what a day may bring forth." Boy! Was God every right!
It was 8:30 and we had all eaten breakfast, my three baskets of laundry were brought into the van with all the hairdo stuff for after our baths/showers. You see, we have no running water in the RV and no facility to actually take a shower or bath in the house so we go to my moms, plus we wash there.
I had read Proverbs 9 this morning and "wisdom buildeth her house" she prepared things in advance so this was my goal for the day; to be prudent, wise and organised. (that rhymes hee hee).
We were ready to leave, the kids still in the RV, but I wanted to scrape the windows and warm up the van because from what I understand, it was -24 C this morning. I tried to start the van but it did nothing. I tried again and again but to no avail. I decided to be handy and plug the van and let it sit for a while.
We sat in the RV, waiting and waiting. The children became more and more antsy so I went to try the van again. Still nothing. I thought maybe the battery was dead, although I could see no reason why it should.
At the end of our driveway, sits an old green van, full of stuff with no seats. I started that one up with much effort, backed it up, without cleaning the windows, and turned it around to boost the newer van.
Nothing happened.
I decided to bring in the school things and do school and maybe after school, which would be a couple of hours, the van might work. We thought maybe the starter was frozen. So I plugged up the van and we did school.
I tried the van one more time and still nothing.
Here we were, at 11:30 and we were still in our pyjamas because we were waiting to take our showers. I had at least 4 loads of wash to do since I had stripped all the beds and the sheets were in the van. I was sooo discouraged.
The kids were playing hide and go seek with me, but they didn't know I wasn't playing... yet. I sat on my bed and cried. I cried to the Lord and asked, "Why? Why is this happening? What's such the big deal about going to do laundry and washing that you can't let us go? I feel I can't learn more of this life in sacrifice thing. I can't do this anymore Lord!" I sat there and cried for a bit and realized that I could do this all day or just trust God and walk in His will.
I got dressed, walked over to the kitchen, had the children get dressed and went to start lunch. The day would go on and I would not be a spoil brat about it, no matter the challenge.
I was going to make carbohydrates... I mean macaroni for lunch... comfort food. :)
I went to turn on the propane burner... nothing; we were out of propane. .... "Man..."
I got dressed, in my faux fur and high heel boots, went outside and took out the empty propane tanks and put in the full ones. Came in and tried the burner again and voilà, there was a flame!
I made LOTS of macaroni with spaghetti sauce.
From then on, the day went pretty smoothly but needless to say, I bought myself a Tim Horton's coffee.
This morning, after I read and prayed, I said something very stupid. I said, to myself, "I wonder what I'm going to blog about tonight. Nothing special is happening with the renos." I guess the Lord didn't want me speechless. LOL
I then received an email from a friend at church and she always sends them JUST when I need them. I thought I'd share it with you.

Beautiful story.... makes you understand that things happen for a reason The brand new pastor and his wife, newly assigned to their first ministry, to reopen a church in suburban Brooklyn , arrived in early October excited about their opportunities When they saw their church, it was very run down and needed much work. They set a goal to have everything done in time to have their first service on Christmas Eve. T hey worked hard, repairing pews, plastering walls,painting, etc, and on December 18were ahead of schedule and just about finished.On December 19 a terrible tempest - a driving rainstorm hit the area and lasted for two days. O n the 21st, the pastor went over to the church.His heart sank when he saw that the roof had leaked, causing a large area of plaster about20 feet by 8 feet to fall off the front wall of the sanctuary just behind the pulpit, beginning about head high. T he pastor cleaned up the mess on the floor,and not knowing what else to do but postpone the Christmas Eve service, headed home. On the way he noticed that a local business was having a flea market type sale for charity so he stopped in. One of the items was a beautiful, handmade, ivory colored, crocheted tablecloth with exquisite work, fine colors and a Cross embroidered right in the center. It was just the right size to cover up the hole in the front wall. He bought it and headed back to the church. By this time it had started to snow. An older woman running from the opposite direction was trying to catch the bus.. She missed it. The pastor invited her to wait in the warm church for the next bus 45 minutes later. She sat in a pew and paid no attention to the pastor while he got a ladder, hangers, etc., to put up the tablecloth as a wall tapestry. The pastor could hardly believe how beautiful it looked and it covered up the entire problem area. T hen he noticed the woman walking down the center aisle. Her face was like a sheet.. "Pastor,"she asked, "where did you get that tablecloth?"The pastor explained. The woman asked him to check the lower right corner to see if the initials, EBG were crocheted into it there. They were. These were the initials of the woman, and she had made this tablecloth 35 years before, in Austria The woman could hardly believe it as the pastor told how he had just gotten the Tablecloth. The woman explained that before the war she and her husband were well-to-do people in Austria . When the Nazis came, she was forced to leave. Her husband was going to follow her the next week. He was captured, sent to prison and never saw her husband or her home again. T he pastor wanted to give her the tablecloth;but she made the pastor keep it for the church.The pastor insisted on driving her home, that was the least he could do.. She lived on the otherside of Staten Island and was only in Brooklyn for the day for a housecleaning job.What a wonderful service they had on Christmas Eve. The church was almost full. The music and the spirit were great. At the end of the service, the pastor and his wife greeted everyone at the door and many said that they would return. One older man, whom the pastor recognized from the neighborhood continued to sit in one of the pews and stare, and the pastor wondered why he wasn't leaving. The man asked him where he got the tablecloth on the front wall because it was identical to one that his wife had made years ago when they lived in Austria before the war and how could there be two tablecloths so much alike. H e told the pastor how the Nazis came, how he forced his wife to flee for her safety and he was supposed to follow her, but he was arrested and put in a prison.. He never saw his wife or his home again all the 35 years in between.The pastor asked him if he would allow him to take him for a little ride. They drove to Staten Island and to the same house where the pastor had taken the woman three days earlier. H e helped the man climb the three flights of stairs to the woman's apartment, knocked on the door and he saw the greatest Christmas reunion he could ever imagine.True Story
Keep believing.

Provoked?

I had bought a book called "Wisdom and the Millers", it was a story that the parents would read or tell their Miller children while using a proverbs verse to relate it to life.

I can't remember the verse Mr. Miller used, nor the exact details of the story but I will try to tell you it as I remember it.

A young boy was walking home from school and knew he was being followed by school boys who liked to pick on him. They called him names, yelled nasty things to him, but he kept walking.

They finally caught up to him and circled around him, this too, didn't intimidate him, so they finally let him be until... the next day after school.

Everything happened quite the same except this time they decided to throw rocks at him from the field, next to the dirt road where the young boy was. They hit him but did not avail to scare him or get him angry.

Again, they circled him but this time, one of the boys spat in the young boy's face. This provoked him to the point of rage. He swung his fists to retaliate but soon was found out by a neighbour who broke up the fight. Every boy was punished by their parents but somehow the bullies felt they had the victory because they were able to break down the young boy's walls.

It reminds me of a scripture in Proverbs 25:28, "He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls."

I can hear your wheels turning. "What does this have to do with renovations?"

You must not of had the opportunity to experience major renovations, if you ask this question. I would of 5 weeks ago. ;)

This morning, as I sat on my bed, in the R.V., I read my bible. It was so hard to focus on God's word with the kids bickering just a few feet away. (everything is just a few feet away in an RV. lol)

They know not to interrupt me while I spend time with the Lord, but they had been provoked, usually by the same person, then in turn, it provoked me.

I tried so hard to not fall into the trap but I was tired, had not eaten yet and the kids were excited (hyper) about the snow that had fallen. All these things together, created the perfect atmosphere so I might be provoked.

We have no rule over our own spirit if we don't equip it with time in God's word, in prayer, rest and good physical food. Without those basic things, we can be caught by surprise, off guard; and walls broken down. This will not be a victorious moment for us.

I thank God this is only temporary... (Right Lord? It is....right?) (I learned to never say never hee, hee (nervous laugh)) In times like these, I'm realllllllllly humble.

Anyway, this weekend was a HUGE encouragement! "We" got a lot done. (You'll notice that "I", in the "we", is not in the pictures...that's because I am not "We".)

The men got a lot done. Check out our progress in our album.
Keep guarded.

To put or not to put...

That is the question...lately anyway.
Windows windows windows. We are trying to figure out if we should take 6 feet of the spare bedroom, making it 9x12, so we could have a walk in closet in our bedroom.
And every woman says, "YES! OF COURSE YOU SHOULD!" lol
That's my thought on it but this means we take a window from that room and it will be in our closet. We must have a window in a bedroom to obey fire code. We have a slope on that side because of the roof so we would put a window within a 5 foot high wall. It will look funny from the inside but will not matter from the outside. Advantage... if there is a fire, it will be easy to find since you have to stop, drop and roll, just not out the window. :/
Well, I thought that little funny was funny so I read it to my husband. hee hee He told me that we are putting a gable there so we will have a normal looking window wall. So, hurray! We are going to have a walk in closet!
You know, I wonder if that's how God is with us. He would like to use us in a certain way, maybe use us for a window to show His light to someone who is lost and/or discouraged with life but our standards and attitudes are only 5 feet tall so how He's trying to draw others is really looking funny, out of joint. Proverbs 25:19, "Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint."
An unused vessel because of no light. Matthiew 5:14 "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid."
It's amazing what God can sometimes teach us through the complications of life.
I have posted a link where you can check out the renovations as they come along. There will be before and afters but you'll have to settle for our befores until we have made them afters. (I'm feeling guitty tonight. Might be from the cold in the basement.)
Keep being available and malleable.

How long has it been?

It has actually been a little over 4 weeks since I've blogged and that's because we are in the process of renovating our new/old house. Confusing I know...
When I blogged last, they had found the well and shocked it, found the septic and cleaned it. Thursday, the next day, we had many people come over to help us put our belongings in a large U-Haul truck. What would happen next, other than knowing we were sleeping at my mother's that night, we had no clue. We did not know if we would have a house to bring our belongings to. We knew that the truck needed to be returned by 7am on Saturday. Although our Bahama St. residence had to be empty by am of the 31st, Friday, we did not know if we had a home to call our own.
Friday morning arrived, we were still cleaning the Bahama St. home, and driving to my mom's. We went to bed around 2am and got up around 7am. We first went to our sold house to pick up things we just couldn't fit anywhere, then to the lawyers to sign papers and close the sale. Jacob had an app. with his prostetist for, his artificial leg was on it's last breath, then I drove him to my mom's so my husband and I could go clean out the garage at the sold house. Praise God, we knew the new owner and he allowed us to take a couple of days to empty it out, and it took that!
My husband took me out for lunch then we headed to the house to empty the garage. We called our lawyers a few times, then the bank to see what was holding up the sale of the house we wanted. Finally, at 4:20pm, Friday afternoon, we received a call from our lawyer telling us the keys to the house were there and we could pick them up right now if we wanted.
Talk about a close call. Sometimes, God brings us to the extreme end to see how far our faith goes. That night, since we couldn't confirm with friends that we could move our things to the new/old house, we had to move our entire belongings ourselves. We did although get help from a coworker of my husband's for a couple of hours which, was a huge help and encouragement.
Much has happened since then. We stayed at my mom's for a couple of days then moved into an RV until the house was heated properly and safe to move into. It's been 4 weeks and we are still in the RV.... lol but God has been so good!
It is warm in there, 70+ most of the time. It took us a while to get the hang of changing the propane tanks BEFORE they ran out. lol It's funny to see your breath from under the covers. LOL. The kids think it's great; you see, we're REALLY camping, making up for lost time, needless to say. LOL
We have had the basement to the addition poured and was to start construction on Saturday the 22th of November but we had a severe snow storm. We postponed it to last Saturday which was a very busy day! Piano recital, hockey fundraiser, War Amps get together, Christmas Parade with the War Amps then a pizza party. We were to have 2 builders help us with the construction of the addition but they both had car accidents so we were 2 men short, BUT... AGAIN... God provided!
Just like that afternoon when we were waiting to know the fate of our belongings; having a home to call ours, waiting to the last minutes of the work week and having that rush of relief when we got the call. We had to put that same trust in God for the construction of the addition.
Some might say. "So what, never mind the addition, move in! It's December for crying out loud!" but, there are things that need to be worked on during the week that are in the house; heating, beams to be replaced, ceilings taken down and walls pulled out.
Last Saturday, 2 other men showed up to help my husband, then our new neighbour came to the rescue with his heavy duty compressor, when our compressor for the nail guns died, we all had much to eat all day, which was provided for us, and the first floor, literally the floor; no walls, to the addition was finished. Lord willing, this Saturday, they will be able to put up both the first and second floor.
We are expecting a storm on Sunday so I pray that my husband will take Friday off so Saturday they could work on the roof which they have to tear off of the existing house, and build a new roof for the entire house (addition and existing).
I will be putting the photos in an online album so you will be able to see the work being done as we go along, many photos have been taken thus far.
One thing I am learning in all this is to wait; to wait on the Lord. I had done a personal study once in Psalm 27:14 "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD." I noticed it said, be of GOOD courage, was there such a thing as BAD courage? As I search the scriptures, I learnt that there is such a thing as bad courage. Courage that is of your own self, your own strength, is bad courage. You are relying on yourself to get yourself through BUT GOOD courage is one that is rested in God's strength.
I find it hard sometimes to have GOOD courage. I fall into my sinful nature and try to do things in my own time and strength. I end up doing more harm by wearing myself out then not having the energy, patience and love to give to my family.
Being in the RV is training me to trust in God and rest in Him. I am a space person; I have a lot of energy and I need space to communicate that energy. This RV does not allow me to be selfish with my space and God is training me to allow people in "my" space. I love to give and do for others but I tend to be very selfish with my time and space when it comes to my family. What a shame that is. I'm learning so much... even as I'm writing this.
Be of good courage.

Yeehoooo!

That's French for Yeeehawwww! lol

Well the sales is going through finally. The well passed the water test, the septic got cleaned out yesterday, it's a cement 1000 gallon and is in good condition so we're officially buying the house. How exciting!

I read in Proverbs 29:25, "The fear of man bringeth a snare; but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe." It really spoke to me as an encouragement and reminder that God gives peace, guidance and security when we trust Him to lead us and have our life but, the opposite will keep us in constant fear.

From the moment the Lord laid on our heart that He wanted us to move, we trusted Him to help us make the transition. We knew that God knew ahead of time all the possible situations for us but one in particular was His will. There was one path that was filled with His blessings. It never means that things are always perfect and easy because He wants us constantly growing and seeking Him.

Today is still filled with things to do like: getting MORE banana boxes, bringing estimates to the bank, going to the lighting place for estimates, calling Energy Efficiency, getting a building permit and calling the foundation guys to get that scheduled ASAP. Those are the things I can think of right now... lol

Going back to the scripture God showed me this morning, before we got the news about the water and septic, trusting in God will bring safety; peace of mind, security and confidence so there is no reason to fall in the flesh and become fearful of the future. I can't change what the future brings and the bible says, having fear will just be a snare; a trap and stronghold. Fear is not of the Lord.

Keep trusting

What's behind door number 1?

One banana, two banana, three banana more...

I know it's supposed to be "potato" but they don't make potato boxes like they used to...LOL

For those who are confused, banana boxes are THE BEST boxes to move. They are the perfect size, they are very sturdy and they even have handles so they're easy to carry.

Superstore won't give them out anymore but Sobey's does.

Things have been moving here! My... ooops... our.... kitchen is almost all packed. I simply left a few, cups, mugs, plates, bowls, Tupperware etc so we can function. Everything else is packed. I even left 3 coffee filters in the cupboard so I could pack the rest and have THAT special box which we will have our coffee maker, coffee grinds, filters etc. All we need to start off our mornings; vitamins etc. (Can't forget those!)

Yesterday they found the well!... I still find that funny. They shocked the well yesterday so our real estate agent went to get some water so it can be tested again. Pray that it does. They will also be cleaning out the septic tomorrow or Wednesday. It looks very good for a closing on Friday.

Today I spent a lot of time on the telephone. I had to call Rogers so they could transfer our services, come to find out, we will be too far out; they don't service that area. lol City girl thinks that's funny. LOL

I called Aliant/Bell and opened our account from a few years ago and we'll be far out enough, they had to change our 15 year old, super easy phone number. (awwwwww) ;)

Then I made the arrangements with the power company, actually, my husband did since his name was on the account but he changed that so I could take care of that stuff too, while he's at work. I talked to the lawyer 2 or three times, emailed the mortgage broker quite a few times with our renovation quotes etc.

At 11:00am, we finally started class. We got everything done that was important, then we did some running around town. I finally started doing some packing when a Jehovah's Witness came to the door... , did a couple of wash, all this while supper was cooking in the oven but yet somehow, I undercooked it. What a day!

When I saw how badly undercooked our roast, potatoes and carrots were, I got discouraged. I felt so defeated, then I remembered what pastor preached last Wednesday. "Don't Panic!" He taught us to stop and evaluate the situation. I was going to put the roast back in the oven but what would we have for supper? "Moe will be home soon, the kids were supposed to be grounded and go to bed early, what am I going to do?" I was starting to panic. I'm convinced the Holy Spirit reminded me to not panic and to assess the situation. I then realized I could just slice the roast and fry it in the frying pan. It was still really good, plus you had crispy spots too. YUMM! The potatoes were still a bit hard, the carrots quite rubbery lol but nothing like "Roasted Garlic and Bacon Dressing" can't take care of. :)

Although I still an attitude to adjust, God gave us a good supper.

I so don't deserve Him. It's sad. I've been thinking of that Jehovah Witness woman who came to my door today. When I told her that some day I'd be in Heaven with Jesus, she lowered her head and said well, I wish that someday I could be in heaven. There was no way I could help her understand who God was and the gift of salvation. She was convinced by her 30 years of studies and I couldn't sway her at all. It saddened me to think that one day, people will spiritually wake up and see where they are going, some won't be in heaven. I have so much to look forward to when I go. I'm not getting to go because of my own merits but because of Jesus' righteousness and my faith to accept His gift of salvation.

One day, I'll be moving to a better place, one I don't have to pack for. I'll be headed for a place where the "Son" always shines, we can eat as much as we want and not get fat! lol What a wonderful day that will be! I can't wait for my final move. The one where I'll be finally home, for good.

Keep watching.

Oh where or where can it be?

"Oh where oh where has my little dog gone?"

Those who know me, know that this would not be something I would say, especially with much concern. lol I'm not a dog enthusiast but I am very fond of cats, which, Lord willing, we will have 2, I think.

One thing the owners of the 2919 McQuades house have been saying is, "where oh where have the septic and well gone?" YA! Imagine! We've asked them to clean out the septic because we anticipate a problem with it and since the water did not pass, they need to shock the well but, they can't seem to find these two big underground reservoirs. I find that quite funny.

The morning that my husband called me to tell me this, I had prayed that God would place His hands on "our property" to keep the ground warm so we could have the addition's foundation poured. I guess the people couldn't see through God's hands. lol It might also be that God wants us to have the house cheaper. Only He knows.

As of today, we told our agent that there are two preferred options.

1. At the 75 000.00 price they do the work of finding the well and septic, and get them clean and functioning.

2. Lower the price of the house and we will take the house as is, we will take care of the well and septic.

Obviously there's a third option being, they do not want to do either and we look elsewhere but I can't shake the thought that God wants us to have THIS particular house. I could be wrong.

We keep praying that God close the door if it is not His will or open it wide if it is. With this offer, it will do one or the other.

God has blessed us over and over through this journey. Although, we might live with my mother for a few days or weeks, I think it's more painful for her than for us.

The timing of it all, to us, seems very off but I know that God makes no mistakes and He promises in His word, especially in Philippians 4:19, "My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches and glory." I can expect amazing things from Him who owns all the cattle and the hills, the oceans, the fish etc. He has all riches to His disposal and I'm not worried about where we will live in 6 days.

I told God this morning as I spent time with Him. "You are a miracle maker. I know that You are fully capable of having the agreement, the sale papers, the bank papers and the documents by the lawyer, signed sealed and delivered by this afternoon, if You wanted to. If it is Your will, I know it's nothing for you to do it. I especially know that it's nothing for you to have the closing on the 31st of October even if people say it's not very possible. This is an opportunity for You to get glory, to be lifted up before all men. If it is Your will for us to have this house, please allow for the closing to be October 31st, 2008."

I know that if God chooses to close on another day or even on another house, there is good reason for it. I wouldn't want to be where He isn't. I want to live in the house that God has for us. I don't want to settle for less than what He has for us.

When we have God as our Saviour but also as our life Gardener, we can expect to live in a fruitful, luscious garden filled with different beautiful perfumes of flowers never imagined.

Keep trusting.

With certainty

God's Word says in Proverbs 16:9, "A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps. "

What peace there is when we seek to walk in God's footsteps. His direction is stable, secure and gives certainty to our direction.

I know with certainty that God wanted us to move. I shared how He showed both my husband and I, His direction for us. When things get a little hazy, we can look back and know that we are doing the right thing. The other part that gives me peace is that both Moe and I ask God daily to intervene in our life that we would not step out of His path which is laid out for us.

I remember, almost 8 years ago now, when we first went to Charity Bible Baptist Church. We were looking for a building to have our services in. Pastor and the trustees had found a building and pastor was sharing with us the different things that would have to be fixed. One thing he said and stayed with me is, "If God doesn't want us to be in this building, I don't want us to be in it, because it will never be right and always be a burden."

That is how we feel about this house. We know that it has a lot of necessary repairs to do, then there's the addition, which is necessary to us. We know that if God wants us in this house, He is already gone before us and preparing our way for the renovations. If God does not want us to have THIS house and we buy it anyway, it will never be quite right, the renovations will be difficult, costly and never ending.

I don't want to be without God's blessing on my life. It's so much safer there. He is my shield while in the storm. "though the storm builds all around me, I am safe in the arms of the Lord"

As for details about the work we've been doing. I called a friend of mine to see if my drawings of the inside of the house were ok; he is an architect. He offered to draw the outside of the house and a section of the house for City planning to accept us for a building permit. He found out for us what we needed and is drawing what we need, all for free! Needless to say, we have a gift for him. What a blessing! God knew we would need this and He laid my friend on my heart to call him and voilà! Taken care of by God. Imagine! "How great thou art!"

I went to Kent Building Supplies yesterday, with the kids. As I was looking at the paint chip colors, a total stranger came up to me. He was in his late 60's I'd say. I thought he was going to say something about the kids but to my surprise, this is what he said. "Excuse me. You don't know me from a hole in the ground but I saw your family and thought it was worth giving the compliment." I was taken back at his boldness and determination. "It's a blessing to see a woman dressed and looking like a lady." I really didn't expect that. I only had my black skirt with tights and dress shoes, a black t-shirt with my jean blazer, but I was blessed, reminded that I was doing what God expected of me.

I'm not perfect by any stretch, believe you me! I do although know by experience that when you ask God to guide your life and every direction you take, He is faithful to show you and remind you that you are on the right track.

Well, I found the colors I needed, I made little cardboard squares for each room so I could visualize the colors for those rooms and make better color choices for curtains and other accessories. I went shopping with my mom to get fabric for 2 rocking chairs we have but $$$$ I didn't buy anything. :)

Today I called the lawyer to give him a heads up about the house so if we decide to purchase it, once we get all the quotes, things will be ready to go. The only quote we are waiting for is the building supplies cost, and we are waiting for them to find the well...lol so they can shock it and clean out the septic because we don't quite like THAT shade of green, when it comes to lawns. lol

By the way... it's difficult to know when the right time is to start packing, so many things we need. Well this morning, my oldest son said, "Hey maman! We move in 8 days!" with his excited tone of voice. Needless to say I did a big "GULP" sound and said to myself, "OK! NOW IS THE RIGHT TIME TO START PACKING!" (nervous laugh)

Stay tune, I might have news shortly about our decision!

Where do I even begin?

I don't even know where to begin. Things have been going fast and crazy. The bible says in Proverbs 11:1 "A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight.". This can be hard to accomplish when circumstances arise, but it has been a blessing that within our home, and relationship with one another; although not perfect, has been balanced and not stressful.

We received news from the inspectors and some things have become speed bumps in the process. We were told that the foundation and house are solid although there are things that need to be repaired which can be costly but we anticipated most of those "findings". I called the "news"; the inspectors report, a speed bump because my husband and I took this time to pray and ask for God's guidance. Thus far, we asked Him to close any door that He would not want us to enter and we wanted to make sure that if this was a closed door, we would recognize it.

In Luke 14:28, "For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?". We want to be realistic yet faithful.

We continued getting the appropriate quotes and seeking out contrators etc. We have a peace that this is the house God wants for us. Until He closes the door shut, we will continue to walk on this journey He has for us.

Today was men's breakfast for the men of our church, where the pastor also teaches biblical truths to these men. My husband usually takes our sons, which one was at a sleep over so he took the youngest with him. He leaned over to whisper in my ear that if I wanted to take the girls to have breakfast at "Hyne's" I could. So, once they left, I leapped out of bed and got the girls ready, our beds made, got myself ready and out for breakfast we went! We had a wonderful time practicing those lady like manners; even I had a hard time keeping my elbows off the table. lol

We then headed to the "Home Depot" to check out he paint colors. Imagine, I have 11 rooms to choose colors for which will blend and be soothing and fit the farmhouse feel. What fun it was! I loved it. It's so exciting! Then we, the girls and I, went to the light fixtures department. wowwwwwww! Where to start? I am a retro/contemporary girl but slowly God is showing me the beauty of country. I surprised myself when I saw the raw iron ceiling fixtures and was taken by it. I had to develope a theme, a consistancy in the design. I like the raw iron look but I also like the brown instead of black. It had a hommier look. I finally started finding the "matching" fixtures and styles. I went from aile to aile (there was only 4 but on both sides). When the wheels started rolling (the wheels in my head that is) I got excited about our new home to be. I wasn't hyper excited, just comforted excited, knowing that God was before us and He is there to help us all the way, even in the simple things like lighting fixtures.

My husband and youngest son where already home when got home so I got to share the excitement with my husband about my finds. We then tackled the last of the dirt pile. YIKES, finally it's gone! (2 dump truck loads of fill and top soil)

The journey continues as we contact Foundation companies for the foundation and possibly the septic tank, the electrician to rewire the whole house, then get quotes on the other things like the lighting fixtures, flooring, paint and on and on.

Believe it or not, this is actually fun. My husband and I, although very occupied with this project are so enjoying the knitting God is doing in our family and the many blessings He is bestowing on us. He gives us sooooo much more than we deserve.

Keep waiting on Him.

Some light fixtures we like and a photo of the house we want to renovate.

It has been a long time!

Much has passed since I last blogged. The Lord has been working things out and let me tell you where we are at.
At the end of July, we attended a church camp meeting. During one of the sermons, I felt the Lord pressing on my heart that we needed to move, not chairs but home. I went to the altar and told the Lord that if He indeed wanted us to move, He had to tell my husband Himself, which would be confirmation to me that it was of the Lord and not of myself. I knew Moe liked where we were and I could not change his mind, but if it was of God, his heart and desire would change.
That was the Wednesday evening service, we had dessert after and I said nothing. We got up the next morning, washed up, went to breakfast and I had not said anything yet. As we walked back to the camping trailer to get ready for the morning services, I reached for the door handle at the same time as Moe. He then said, "I guess we're moving eh?" " Yap! I guess so." The Lord had prepared both our hearts, it was of the Lord.
That afternoon, we went to visit friends of ours who have a goat farm. I knew what was going to happen. You see, my husband always dreamt of having a farm, a chicken farm. He was going to be taking notes. That made me nervous since I as city girl as it comes. I even like contemporary/retro design! God would again, have to work in my heart. I felt quite ill while we were there. We assume it was the spoiled piece of tomato I taste tested but I think my nerves were really part of the equation.
I start feeling better after a good talk with the Lord. He reminded me that if it was His will to allow us to have a farm, He would provide for me, a farmers heart.
Well, we came home a few days later, started repairs on the house, then called a friend of mine who is a real estate agent. He sent a stagist to help us know where to put the most work and within two weeks, the house was ready to be put on the market. In total, that took about 5-6 weeks. The sign was on the lawn Wednesday night the 24th of Sept. We had a showing on the Monday, but no sale. We had another on the Thursday evening and they made us an offer. We countered it and by noon Friday, we had the house sold. 8 wopping days it took to sell the house!!!
The offer came with a closing of October 31st. That is not a misprint, we are to be out October 31st which is in a couple of weeks. We found a farm house about 20 min. from town. We put in an offer MUCH lower than the asking price and they countered for not much more than we offered. Again, of the Lord. Today, the inspectors are going to see if the house is worth investing in. Actually, they are there as I am writting this.
If they say this is a good home to work with, we will be putting an addition and renovating the existing house. This house is small; 19x19.
I will be putting regular updates of what God is doing and how He is leading.
Through all this, I look back and am amazed at how far God has brought my family and me.
It will be a year this Friday that my father in law died. My husband took it VERY hard and struggled for a while, but praise the Lord it was for a while! The Lord has been good to both Moe and I. Our relationship is better than it ever was, and I only have God to thank for it.
Through this renovation and purchase of the farm, we will grow closer to one another but more importantly, draw our children closer to Him and ourselves. Hopefully, the neighbour's will be willing to build relationships with us so we can draw them also to Christ.
Enjoy the before and after pictures.

How annoying am I?

Yikes! Did I step on someone's toe????
It just struck me funny, that in chapter 11 of Luke, the very God who not only gave life to the priests, pharisees, scribes etc, and He was The one who create and gave them their "office". He saw these people of that office (standing/authority) and the same of many generations past, killing the prophets that He sent to guide them and speak wisdom to them, and yet they stood before Him boastful and arrogant, trying to trip Him up in His words.
Imagine this. He is all knowing! He stood before them, knowing their thoughts now and many generations ago. The history of their hypocrisy, pride and godlessness. Knowing that He will be soon a volunteer to their acts of violence and cruelty. It must of angered Him. God allowed them their standing and authority among their people and they abused it, thinking they were hiding their motives from the Son of God Himself.
When we look at our kids and they get sossy with us, prideful and arrogant, does it not boil up inside of us? We can quickly get angry at them but how much more merciful was and is God.
Reading Luke 11:37-54, at first I can hear the frustration in His voice but as I continued to listen to Him give the historical accounts of the prophets, I could hear the pain in His heart for those who loved, served and obeyed Him, yet who were killed by those who were sinning wickedly but that God was trying to reach out to because of His love for them. (not their sin)
Can you see this?
God over top, watching those who love Him desiring to serve Him so they risk and some loose their life by reaching out to those whom God is trying to gain back to Him.
God gave me an "office", a responsibility for young children whom He has lent me for a season and those of others while in Sunday School and by example of my life. I know that in my everyday tasks, although I have not killed anyone... yet... LOL (just kidding), I get swelled up with pride.
God is over top, watching me, who has been given an office over "our" children. Do I have the same compassion for them as they learn or even disobey, as God has with me? Does my heart feel the pain of the consequence of their unwise decisions? Does my heart desire to reach out to them even in their moments of frustration or rebellion? I can be so filled with pride at times, that compassion is far from me.
Oh how I want to have compassion for the loss and the wicked, even if it meant my life, but am I willing or just too proud?
Let's keep searching to be like HIM.

To be... or not to be...

I arrived from a women's conference a couple of weeks ago. It was such an encouragement! Since then, certain things that the Lord showed me has been a learning curve for me. One thing I prayed before I left was that He would not let me forget what He had shown me.

I wanted to share with you one of the things He has allowed me to remember because it has given me a new freedom.

Do you ever feel anoyed by all the things you have to do? Clean the house, make meals, wash the clothes, fold then iron them (my kids put them away), clean the house again, make your bed, vaccum, clean the house again, another meal etc. It seems like it never ends. Sometimes when I get consumed with those things, I get bitter that I'm the only one doing it, even if it is my "job". This thing that God has shown me, through the preacher who preached on the last evening. He said, that we should not be bitter with all that we do; we should consider what we do, a blessing to others.

Have you ever read a passage of scripture or heard the preacher say something over but THIS one time, something about it rings true. The Holy Spirit taught me something, I can do what I do to be a blessing instead of it being a burden.

The past few days have been extremely hot and humid. I've also been trying to do the things that I can't get to when we homeschool, so I've been really busy and it's been a burden at times! God is so good because He would, as soon as bitterness entered my heart, remind me of what Bro. Osteen said. I quickly told myself, do this (whatever it was) to be a blessing. Instantly my heart changed. Folding the clothes so my husband wouldn't have to search in the basket became a blessing I could give him. Washing the floor, again, was a blessing for my family, to be able to enjoy a clean floor. Washing the egg residue on the siding of our house (kids in the neighbourhood threw them on our house), a blessing for those walking behind our house to go to the city park. Picking up some toys from the livingroom floor to bless my kids who aren't old enough to endure such heat and were in the sprinkler.

I love doing things for others, like cooking a meal, making a dessert, sending a card or buying something special but somehow, doing my househod duties to BLESS my family, never crossed my mind. Funny enough, in return, I have been blessed. I have not had bitterness in my heart and I've even seen my love for my family has grown even more.

I encourage you, when you are discouraged and feeling the burden of our responsibilities, remember you have the opportunity to bless that person who will be touched or exposed by you doing that such thing. How would or did you feel if that person did it for you. Remember that blessing you would have, and give it to them instead. You will also get the blessing. The more you bless others with your giving of time and work, the more blessings you will receive.

Keep being a blessing.

Like mother like centurion... (?)

We, as mom's, think that other than the everyday chores, raising kids, meals and wife related responsibilities, we are not important. We could never be so wrong!

I read Luke chapter 7 and couldn't help but see the similarities between the centurion and us.

Definition (Wikipedia www.wikipedia.org ) of centurion: a professional officer of the Roman army. In comparison to a modern military organization, centurions covered a whole range of ranks. Ordinary century commanders would be equivalent to a modern army lieutenants or captains. The senior centurions leading cohorts would be equivalent to lieutenant colonels. Centurions often suffered heavy casualties in battle, generally fighting alongside the legionaries they commanded. They usually led from the front, occupying a position at the front right of the century formation. They led and inspired their men by example. They also sought to display the skill and courage that got them to their rank in the first place. It is for these reasons that they often suffered a disproportionate number of casualties.

In Luke 7:2-8 "And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die. And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant. And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this: For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue. Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof: Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed. For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth [it]. When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick."

This centurion had power and the respect of those around him. These elders thought highly of him for his generosity even though he was not "one of them". He also had the respect of his servants for they also met Jesus on His way there but they delivered the message that the centurion did not consider himself to be worthy of Jesus being under his roof.

As highly regarded as he was, as respected as he was, he still recognized that Jesus was above him and that his dear servant could not be spared unless Jesus did something. This centurion had so much faith in Jesus that he asked Him to just speak a word and he knew his servant would be healed. Just like in the beginning, God spoke everything into existence.

How is this comparable to us as moms?

1.He also had someone in authority over him and was an authority over many

2.He also cared for those he was responsible

3.We are on the front line for our children having experienced life, in prayer, informing ourselves of an environment before leaving them in it.

4. We lead our children and inspire them to do right or evil, by our example.

5. We show them why we are who we are and that age alone makes us adults, but wisdom, discernment, humbleness and a hope in Christ is what makes you a respectable adult.

We need to recognized that we have a difficult task, one that we can't do on our own. We need to humble ourselves before God and offer our children to Him in prayer and our lives in sacrifice. Our relationship with God must be pure, sincere, honest and growing so He may heal them, preparing them for the tasks He has for each individual child we have.

Being a mom is a larger responsibility than we thought before we had our children, is it not? It is one that is life changing for both mother and child. We have the "power" to draw our children to Christ or away from Him. Oh how much I want my children to love and serve God with all their heart because of who God is. It seems too simple of a concept, to live our life in a way that pleases God, but it will ultimately lead others to Him, more importantly, our children.

Keep praying, leading, fighting the battle and caring for those you have authority over.

Really!!?

I was listening to a preacher who was talking about Lot, the nephew of Abram (Abraham). I was listening when something caught my attention. Have a look at this. Genesis 13:12 "Abram dewelled in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his ten TOWARD Sodom."
I don't know why but I always had the impression Lot had pitched his tent IN Sodom. It is clear that he started by looking in that direction and being impressed with the riches of that land. (see Gen. 13:10) Then he took the first step that would change his family's life for ever; he pitched his tent toward Sodom. Slowly, he worked his way INTO Sodom.
Every morning he woke up, open the door to his tent and looked out there and desired that life in those 5 cities including Sodom and Gomorrah. The hustle and bustle of business, prosperity, self confidence and happiness. That's what he saw anyway.
I knew, from reading God's word, that Sodom, Gomorrah (& 3 other cities which I didn't realize) where destroyed for homosexuality and immoral sexual activity, but I thought that was it. Having that ignorance took away the importance of the state of my city's sin. I knew that the city and surrounding cities where sinful but not as bad as Sodom and Gomorrah. Right?!
Here's what Ezekiel 16:49 and 50 say, "Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread(eating in abundance), and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty, and committed abomination before me: therefore I took them away as I saw [good]."
In Ezekiel 15:49 and 50, God tells us more in detail what was happening in that city. That put into a better light, how God sees the wickedness of our society.
Although God was displeased with Lot for being there, He gave him a chance to escape. Some of his family members laughed and mocked him, his wife turned back to see what she had left behind. The bible says she turned into a pillar of salt. I didn't know this but just on the edge of where Sodom was, is "Just opposite the site of Zoar, on the south-west coast of the Dead Sea, is a range of low hills, forming a mass of mineral salt called Jebel Usdum, "the hill of Sodom."" (http://www.sacred-texts.com/bib/ebd/ebd347.htm) I found that interesting.
God was displeased with Lot but gave him a chance, at his repentance but God was always pleased with Abraham. Hebrews 11:10 "For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker [is] God."
I know there's a lot of work to do in our society, to bring them back to God but we must make the first step; not to pitch our tents, our sights, towards Sodom, towards the glorification of wickedness. We must do like Abraham, set our sights on the jobs, ministries, actions, and lifestyle which has a "foundation, whose builder and maker is God." Then one by one we will be able to draw men unto God.
Keep focused on godliness.

His love for us

I don't know if you mind me putting videos. I know I am very visual and this is a video that I can't help show you. You might of already seen it.
It's a man who's dream is to do a triathlon. The only problem is that he is severely handicaped where he must be in constant care. He lives with his family; a dad who loves him very much, so much that he trained to be able to do a triathlon in his son's stead. His son gets all the credit for the race, his father does all the work because of his love for him.
The video is to compare the love of a father for his son to the love of our Father in heaven for us.
I want to cry at the thought of that comparison. Think about it. Jesus Christ was beaten, tortured just so that we can enjoy the peace, love and presence of God in heaven. A free gift because of His love for us.
We don't have to do a thing, He's done it all already. He did all the work, He ran the course, He suffered the pain, He paid the price. We just have to accept the payment. The Father knew what was the price but He still did the sacrifice. Why?
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
Get yourself some tissues, because when you see what this man did for his son, you will be touched by what God did for us. Think of the cross.

Introducing....

Well, it's been a week and I have busy, too busy to write something this week. I can't believe how quickly the week has gone by.

We homeschool and we finished two weeks ago tomorrow, and I've been getting caught up in housework (spring cleaning).

For fear of not being able to post something tomorrow, I came across this video and I got chills. I want to share it with you and hope you will be blessed by it as I was.

Enjoy!

Who are you waiting for?

Luke 5:1-11, "And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret, And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing [their] nets. And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. And they beckoned unto [their] partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw [it], he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken: And so [was] also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him."
Are you sitting waiting for someone to step up, then you'll get up and follow?
What is it that you're cheating God out of, for your pride and selfishness?
That's what the Lord spoke to me about when I read this passage.
Back in verse 3, Jesus spoke to a discouraged, frustrated man. He had a family (a wife and mother in law, we don't know about children) to provide for. He possibly had to pay to have his boat "parked" where it was and he had to pay his men.
On this particular day, they caught no fish. Do you think maybe God had something to do with that? Hummmmmm.... So picture if you will, here is a discouraged man with no hope, who is approached by a stranger, who He, is being followed by a large group of people (vs.1). This stranger asks Simon to bring his boat out a bit, then He sits down. Peter must of thought it was so weird and he was probably curious, therefore decided to do as he was asked.
He listened to Jesus teach and preach. He was obviously moved and amazed by Jesus' commonness and down to earth presence yet, such a scholar who knew not only the bible but wanted to teach others God's word. He must of been impressed by Jesus' compassion because when Jesus was done, He asked Simon (Peter) to go further into the deep waters. Peter hesitated while he explained of their failure the previous night, but he obeyed through faith in this man, Jesus.
Look at the impact he had. His men where with him, they heard Jesus teaching and preaching. (These are our fellow church people.) They didn't step up to the plate to encourage Simon, they followed him once he obeyed.
Verse 7 says that when the work was too much for them, they, Peter and his men, called out to their partners for help. They came, and were part of the miracle of God's provision.
At the end, they ALL surrendered to Jesus' call to "fish" for men.
What an influence Peter was on all those men!
Now who will be the Peter in my church and in yours?
Will we be the one that follows and is just a part of God's miracles of healing, restoring and saving grace or will we be the one who gets up and leads in service to influence others for Christ's sake?
Will we be the one, the Peter, whom God knows He can count on to obey and get the job done? Who will God be able to use?
I don't know about you but I want to be used by God, to draw people to Him. It might take a lot more faith but I want to be a part of His work.
Keep UP... the work, His work.

Are you blessed?

I cam before God's Word with a wicked heart.

I was tired from staying up the previous night; watching hockey with my husband, and I was offended by my eldest son because he did not obey me with a cheerful heart, when I asked him to do something.

I put the children to bed, expressed my frustration to my son, then I got my bible, still frustrated, to sit down under the covers of my bed and read. I opened it to Psalm 32:1 which says, "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered."

OUCH!!!!! That truth hurt!

I certainly didn't feel blessed so I must of transgressed against God and my sin was not yet forgiven.(Go figure!)

Sometimes, God doesn't beat around the bush with me. I think He's so annoyed with my pride that when I come face to face in the mirror of His word, He shows my sin right away without compassion.

Some of you might not understand the connection between my son's disobedience and my pride. Here it is; I was not offended by his disobedience because he was transgressing/rebelling God's law/guidance of Ephesians 6:1-3. I was offended because I wanted something done he didn't care to do what I wanted. "How dare you?! Don't you know who I am?" my prideful heart said.

I was so convicted by this passage that I could not read on. I had to confess my sin of pride and anger to my holy and righteous God, besides, He only wants what's best for me.

I did that and like 1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

I went on to read the rest of Psalm 32, and just like God said, I was blessed now that my transgression was forgiven.

I read how David had sin in his life and in verse 5, he confessed it and just like me, God forgave him.

Then the Lord encouraged me by telling me, in this Psalm, how much it pleases Him when we seek His purity in our heart and life.

Then He spoke to me, asking me to not harden my heart with sin because I will no longer be able to learn of Him nor from Him.

Now I was blessed and I knew those lines of communication, between God and me, were open again.

To be cleansed of sin is a great thing. Something worth praising God for.

Keep that phone line clear.

Funny!

Proverbs 17:22 "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spririt drieth the bones."

I love to laugh. When God and I are alone, we have a hoot! While with others who are more on the serious side, we try to be more calm... if you will.

When I go through struggles, He will show me the funny side of it or the funny/stupid things I did. I always learn but God usually puts a humorous twist on things because He knows I usually need to loosen up. I tend to be a perfectionist at times.

Having said all that, I thought I would give you all a little bit of medicine.

Open wide.....

Just Blind

Luke 4:1-7 "And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered. And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread. And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it. If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine."

I read that and it blowed my mind to think how blinded Satan was by his pride.

Satan is very aware who God is and the Trinity at that! He knew Jesus was God manifested in the flesh.

Really think about it. Satan once was the most esteemed angel, Lucifer. He was the one who stood behind God and covered Him with his wings. He knew who and what God was and is! Yet he stood in front of Jesus, the Son of God and showed Him riches of this world, hoping Jesus would fall for it.

It's the first time I actually see how self centered Satan really is. Someone who is self consumed and centered has no clue of reality nor of who is hurt by their actions.

When we are selfish, we are sooooo blinded from truth, we don't make rational judgements. It sounds a lot like Satan's situation.

We think of pride as a little o'l sin. A sin that everyone has, it's bad but just do the best you can to not have it; that's all you can do.

Wait a minute! Doesn't Proverbs 6:16-17 say that pride is one of seven things that are an abomination unto God? If it's something God hates so much, don't we think God would love to help us get rid of it completely, from our life? Don't get me wrong, we are all born in sin and will die sinners, but if we have been born again; born physically then born spiritually, the second done on purpose, by our own will, are we not new creatures? (2Corinthians 5:17). Isn't our past swiped away (Psalm 103:12)? Doesn't Philippians 4:13 say, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."? If we sincerely want to be used by God and not be a stumbling block to others, especially our younger brothers and sisters in Christ, don' you think Psalm 37:4, "Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart." or Matthiew 6:33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." would come into play?

Jesus said if we ask in His name, in other words, ask for things that He would agree with or ask for. If we ask God, in Jesus' name, to free us from the pride we carry in our minds and our hearts; He will answer those prayers, the Bible says so in John 16:23.

What stops us from asking God to free us from our pride? We asked Him to free us from drinking, smoking, drugs, premarital sex, anger lying etc. Why not pride? Let's face it, pride feels better than all those thing I just mentioned, but fro a season. I think it's because we too wear the same shoes as Satan did that day when he dared to try to "trick" Jesus into desiring worldly riches but end up bowing before Satan in the end.

Can you imagine the look on Jesus' face? Something like, "You're kidding right?!" "HELLO Satan! Remember me? You know... J-E-S-U-S... God in the flesh?! I made those cities you're showing me. I gave power to those people in those kingdoms. If I wanted it I could get it by myself... thanks. Good try though!... *wink*"

That's where spiritual battle gets a little clearer for me. He doesn't just attack me, tempting me because he knows I'm weak and I'll fall to his devices. He just wants to be worshiped so badly! He is blinded by his desperation, his pride. He'll attack anyone who is weak at any moment. The only smart thing he did when he tried to tempt Jesus, is that he tried it when Jesus' flesh was weak since he hadn't eaten for 40 days while in the wilderness.

3 major things I learnt in this passage:

1. pride blinds us from reality and of your direction and directives to others


2. Satan will attack me because he wants worship and my fall


3. wilderness= hard times (trials). When it's walked without being in prayer and reading God's Word, it now means weak, in the wilderness. Be sure we'll be tempted

Keep strong, even if in the wilderness.