R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Wow! Here's yet another powerful devotional message from Jon Walker. This is something I can't be reminded of enough, it seems. I think I've explained before that I'm a lets-get-it-done-and-check-it-off-the-list kind of person, while my husband is a stop-and-smell-the-roses kind of person. (He is such a better listener than me!) So often, when he is telling me something, I find myself finishing his sentences. While it may be "endearing" that I know him so well, it communicates quite a lack of respect. He'll sometimes gently say to me..."Hon, please let me finish...." ouch. You might well imagine this devotional message stepped all over my toes.

Objective-in-Jesus: Respect

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10 (NIV)

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Respect means we see one another through our Father’s eyes; as eternal beings, chosen by God “for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God’s instruments to do his work and speak out for him;” as “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ” (1 Peter 2:9 MSG; Romans 8:17 NIV).

Our objective-in-Jesus is to consistently remember we’ll be sharing heaven with those in our small groups and congregations, even those we have difficulty respecting now. And God, in his wisdom, “put the body together in such a way that extra honor and care are given to those parts that have less dignity” (1 Corinthians 12:24 NLT).

We often miss this, but one of the simplest ways to show respect is to listen. We offer our presence and open our ears, listening to the hidden hurts and heartaches, the deepest dreams and desires of one another.

The truth is the God of the universe listens to our prayers, which does serious damage to any argument that we’re too busy. Busier than God?

Jesus listened to those around him and he listens to us, which destroys any argument that our mission is too important to listen. Or, is our mission, or even our daily tasks, more important than Jesus?

Our objective-in-Jesus is to respect others enough to let them get the whole story out before we rush in to give an answer, or jump in to fix things, or just plain react to what we think instead of what is true (1 Corinthians 1:10).

You don’t have to agree with what they say; that’s another matter, but unless you hear them out, you won’t even know what they mean. You show others respect, not because of who they are, but because of who they belong to - the same One who created you.

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Did you, like me, see yourself in this message?

Lord, help me keep at the forefront of my mind the importance of truly listening. While it may never be my intention to disrespect, the end result is the same. Remind me that checking things off my "to do list" should never take precedence over taking the time to truly listen and care for those you've so graciously placed in my life. I want to show love the way you would show love. I pray Lord, that you bring this message to mind next time I start to forget. Thank you Father for the loving example you are....

A Prayer for Today

This day is a gift from God. How will you use it? Will you celebrate God’s gifts and obey His commandments? Will you share words of encouragement and hope with all who cross your path? Will you share the Good News of the risen Christ? Will you trust in the Father and Praise His glorious handiwork? The answer to these questions will determine, to a surprising extent, the direction and the quality of your day.

The familiar words of Psalm 118:24 remind us of a profound yet simple truth: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (KJV). For Christian believers, every day begins and ends with God and His Son. Christ came to this earth to give us abundant life and eternal salvation. We give thanks to our Maker when we treasure each day and use to the fullest.

Today, may we give thanks for this day and for the One who created it.

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Today is mine. Tomorrow is none of my business. If I peer anxiously into the fog of the future, I will strain my spiritual eyes so that I will not see clearly what is required of me now. ~ Elisabeth Elliot

Encouragement one another daily as long as it is called today. ~ Hebrews 3:13 (NIV)

Commitment to His lordship on Easter, at revivals, or even every Sunday is not enough. We must choose this day -- and every day -- whom we will serve. This deliberate act of the will is the inevitable choice between habitual fellowship and habitual failure. ~ Beth Moore

God gave you this glorious day. Don’t disappoint Him. Use it for His glory. ~ Marie T. Freeman

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This is the day that You have given me, Lord. Let me be thankful, and let me use it according to your plan. I praise You, Father, for the gift of life and for the friends and family members who make my life rich. Enable me to live each moment to the fullest, totally involved in Your will. Amen.

(Taken from Prayers of a Godly Woman)

fPhoto Friday - More Spring Flowers!

Greetings & Happy fPhoto Friday!
Here are more beautiful spring flower photos from last year
(I couldn't resist!) They always bring to mind this verse...

"Stand still and consider the wondrous works of God." ~Job 37:14

This is our lovely cistena plum tree
dressed in her delicate spring finest!


I was thrilled to find this lovely little spot in downtown Cincinnati! Pink tulips against a black iron fence...Wow! After taking this photo, I walked closer and looked down upon the miniature tulips and caught this glimpse...one of my favorite photos...ever!!!



At Lytle Park, downtown Cincinnati. I love when this happens...
an unexpected surprise amidst a vast array of beautiful peach colored tulips. = )


I left work early one day last Spring for the sole purpose of taking flower photos and shortly thereafter found myself in an absolute torrential downpour! Fortunately, it didn't last long and left lovely water drops on all the flowers!
Finally, this pretty little white crocus was the first (and come to think of it...only) flower to bloom in our front yard last spring! ; )

Camera: Canon Powershot A610
Want to see more beautiful photos?
Visit Natalie of Married to the Preacher.

Confessions of a Thrifty Girl

I admit it...I'm unapologetically a thrifty girl. I enjoy using coupons, comparison shopping and saving money any way I can. But would you like to hear my favorite method of practicing good stewardship? Lean in close...it's thrift store shopping! I love it! In my humble estimation, there's no better form of “retail therapy!” Recently, I’ve discovered a whole host of bloggers who share my love of thrift store shopping. Many have a nose for finding amazing treasures. Then there are those who can spot a diamond in the rough. They’ll take something that’s well, just… ugly, and transform it into something beautiful for their home. (Reminds me of what Christ does for us!)

I quickly noticed a popular trend among a number of these bloggers…many of them seek out white dishes of all sorts of styles, sizes, brands, etc. I loved this idea. I’ve seen beautiful wall displays that cost next to nothing, using just white platters and dishes and many other uses and ideas for all things white. The best part? Many of these dishes cost between .50 cents to just a few dollars. (Now that's inspiring!) Until recently, I didn’t spend much time in this section of the thrift store. Now, it’s become my favorite spot! I’ve found a few white treasures of my own recently and want to share them with you…

This looks like a saucer, but it's actually a shallow little dish. I thought it would be pretty on my dresser to hold my rings, watch, etc. at the end of the day.

Both of the preceeding plates are small...maybe 5" in diameter. I thought about placing a rub-on monogram or phrase on these for display. (All three of the preceeding pieces cost 50 cents!)

I haven't decided yet what to put in this one. It's pretty small, maybe 5 or so inches tall. Any suggestions? I think it cost $1.50.

This beautiful little platter is about 8 or 9 inches long and cost $3.00. It's quite delicate and in perfect condition. The back says "Crown Porcelain - West Germany - Bavaria." This one seems a bit more valuable than the other items I found. This would be nice to give as a gift, filled with some pretty cookies or baked goods (...or maybe just to keep!) ; )

This adorable little pot was .75 cents! The design goes all the way around. I thought it would make a beautiful pencil cup, or you could use it for a pretty little flower.

This was my favorite, I think. It's about 10 or 11 inches high. I can't wait to fill it with some flowers and put it on my table. It has no brand on the bottom, but it's heavy and seems to be of good quality. This one cost $4.00!

So what do you think? Seven little lovelies, all of which have some sort of history, for just over $10.00! That's some pretty thrifty shopping...not to mention the thrill and relaxation of the hunt, which truly is half the fun! Let me know what you think, and if you're a thrift store shopper, too. I'd love to hear any other ideas you might have for any of these pieces! Want to see more thrifty goodness? Visit Holly and Leigh...

Word-Filled Wednesday

(Photo from of Google Images)

You may remember, this is my current verse for the 2009 Scripture Memory Challenge, so I've been thinking on it for quite a few days. I love passages like this one. Practical application, spoken simply yet beautifully. The longer I think on this verse, the more I see just what an all-encompassing challenge it presents to us as believers.

Phil Ware of Heartlight offers these brief thoughts on Romans 12:12:

Sometimes the key to survival is simply "setting our jaw" and going on faithfully trusting that God is there helping us, despite the apparent and outward circumstances. Choosing joy through hope rather than despair, choosing patient endurance in times of affliction, and choosing faithfulness in prayer are all decisions of the will trusting that the God who raised Jesus from the dead can also change our circumstances because he hears our voice.

Create in me, O Mighty God, a resolute and steadfast heart so that I might persevere with joy no matter what the difficulty. This I ask in the name of your faithful Son. Amen.

To see more Word-Filled Wednesday, visit Amydeanne here...

Bloggy Questions - How do I...

Can you help me? I keep meaning to ask how to do a couple of things I've seen on other blogs... I've tried to do all of these unsuccessfully, and searched for further information and still can't seem to figure it out. Hoping you can help. (Please?)

1. How do you change the word "Comments" at the foot of your posts? I notice some people have phrases like "7 Encouraging Words" or "5 people had something to say", etc. Can anyone enlighten me?

2. How do you create a strikethrough in a blog post? I've tried by creating a Word document using strikethrough, but when I transfer it to Blogger, it disappears...Can anyone clear that up?

3. Finally, can you tell me how to make my header photo fit within the box? I've noticed there are many others that look like mine (overlaps on one side) and it's no big deal, just one of those little things that bug me (yes, I'm a bit OCD). I figured while I'm asking questions...it can't hurt! LOL!

Thanks guys...I know I can count on you! ; )

Just Gotta Share It...

Welcome to what may become a regular feature! I want to share with you some of my current favorites and though they may seem a bit random, I think you'll see a common thread.

Although I don't watch much tv, I've come to love most of the T-mobile commercials. This one is my all-time favorite. Need a giggle this morning? Check it out...


T-Mobile MyFaves "Oversharing" - video powered by Metacafe

LOL...still cracks me up. And speaking of "Super Delicious," here's yet another current favorite.


Hostess 100 Calorie Packs in Chocolate. There are several other flavors (some of which I've tried), but they all run a distant second to the chocolate (in my book, anyway). These petite little cupcakes (about the size of a thick cookie) are yummy! Best of all, check out the nutritional stats! 5g of fiber! For those of you on Weight Watchers, guess what!? One pack of these (that's all three mini cupcakes) is only 1 point! How's that for some sweet news on a Monday?? They are pricey at our local grocery, but I've found them at Walmart or the Hostess outlet for $2.50. If you want to check them out (and I highly recommend it!), here's a coupon that will save you .75 cents!

On the topic of smart choices and weight loss, have you heard what's been going on with Mandisa? She's been on a journey with Christ to get healthier since last August and she's doing great! She's lost 75 pounds so far and on her way to 100. Have you heard her new song -- My Deliverer? Wow, is it fantastic! It's the first release from her new CD called Freedom (in stores tomorrow - 3/24 or downloadable from iTunes now!) These songs celebrate freedom through Christ, to conquer that which holds us back from being all He wants us to be. For her, that meant breaking through a life-long food addiction, and she gives all glory to God. This immediately struck a chord with me because of my own weight loss journey with the Lord. I could not wait to load this one on my iPod...talk about passion and praise! No wonder it's my favorite song right now! Whatever your battle today, this song delivers a heaping dose of encouragement, inspiration and empowerment through Christ. I'm off to play it again (and again and again!) = )



That's all for this edition. Hope you've enjoyed these favorites. Hope your Monday is a wonderful, praise-filled, "super-delicious" day! ; )

Happy Birthday Marcia!

Today is my precious sister, Marcia’s birthday (pronounced "Mar-see-uh" not "Marsha"). She is, next to Tom, my dearest friend. I just have to tell you a little about her. She is a servant through and through, constantly doing special and thoughtful things for others. (It’s little wonder she has so many friends!) She’s is a wonderful wife and great Mom to 5 (yes, 5) awesome kids, ranging in age from 7-16 (including a set of twins!). She is hilariously funny and I have to say, most of my memories of laughing to the point of tears include her. She can tell a story like no other (and with 5 kids, you can bet she’s got many!) She’s just one of those people you love to be around. Her life is a beautiful reflection of her love for the Lord.

She’s a hairdresser by occupation, but she’s also an enormously talented decorator. (I keep encouraging her to pursue that -- it would be her dream job.) She’s redone the kids' rooms several times over the years and has done some amazingly creative things! My favorite was a covered wagon bed she made for her son, Josh. It was incredible!! She has a nose for finding not only amazing things, but she excels at finding them at great prices, too.

I’m so glad we live close to one another, even though our schedules don’t allow us to get together nearly as often as we’d like. My Mom and I took her to lunch last Friday to celebrate and like always, we had a great time! She’s an incredible blessing in my life.

I love you, Marce and thank God for making you my sister! May your day be filled with lots of love and sweet blessings!

fPhoto Friday - Tulips!

Spring is finally arriving in our area and I couldn't be happier about that! Our trees have new buds, grass is turning green and the tulips and daffodils are just starting to bud and bloom. Flowers are some of my favorite photo subjects, especially tulips! While I wait for this year's blooms, I thought I'd share some of God's amazing artistry from last spring, taken at a nearby park...











Hope it's warming up wherever you are! For more fPhoto Friday, stop by and see Natalie of Married to the Preacher. Happy Weekend!

Word-Filled Wednesday

(Photo from Google Images)

As promised, here are a few additional insights I want to share on God's glory, based on our Bible study entitled Breaking Free by Beth Moore.

She asks what it means to be created for God's glory. After considering the ways I could answer, I find her insights beautifully summarize my many thoughts.

God wants to make Himself recognizable to us and

God wants to make Himself recognizable through us.

I shared what I was learning last week about how God makes Himself recognizable to us. Now let's explore how He wants to make Himself recognizable through us.

1 Corinthians 10:31 tells us ..."So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." He's telling us His glory should be visible in everything we do. That's quite a tall order (particularly considering our fallible human nature!) Beth explains "Living a life that glorifies God is synonymous with living a life that reveals God." Feeling a bit overwhelmed by that enormous responsibility? Be encouraged by the words of Romans 3:23..."for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."

In Colossians 1:24-27, Paul reveals that Christ himself dwells in the life of every believer. He takes up residence the very moment we believe and accept His sacrifice for our sins. Unless (or until) that time, we have no hope that He will be recognized in us. As Beth explains, "If we are not occupied by the Holy Spirit, we have nothing in us for Him to show." Christ is truly the fallible human's only hope of glory. I love this quote from Beth Moore,

"We were created for the purpose of giving His invisible character a glimpse of visibility. If we grasp all the eternal implications of such a destiny, we would want to do anything possible to make sure all the hindrances were removed."

If we are growing and maturing in our faith as we should, His spirit and glory should become increasingly recognizable in us, the longer we walk with the Lord. If we're completely honest with ourselves, we'll know if this is true of us. If you're unsure, ask Him if your life is glorifying Him in every possible way. Remember, we are assured in Romans 8:1 "there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." If He sheds light on an area of weakness or shortcoming, it's not for the sake of condemnation, but rather for our freedom! Don't be afraid to let go of that which is holding you back from allowing God's full glory to be shown in your life. Embrace the promise in 1 Corinthians 2:9 "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him."

Praying for you and with you and He empowers us mightily to bring Him the glory He deserves...may it be so.

For more Word-Filled Wednesdays, visit

Scripture Memory Challenge - Verse #6

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
~ Romans 12:12

True to form, when I chose this passage, it was because of its significance in my own faith walk. I need to confess I’ve been struggling a little bit the past few weeks.

After asking for prayer for my surgery, and having such a smooth procedure…I very quickly wanted to say thank you and let everyone know I was doing fine, and I was…for a few days. The week after my surgery, I developed a lung infection in the form of bronchitis. I saw my doctor, received a strong antibiotic and assumed I would be better in short order. To be completely honest, I didn’t want to seem like a whiner or complainer, so I opted not to mention it here. (Mistake #1) I finished the antibiotic and was disappointed to find I was no better. My doctor ordered a different antibiotic. I was still in the midst of taking this one when my 2 week surgical leave from work ended.

While my surgery itself was healing perfectly, there was only a slight improvement in my bronchitis. I had not been resting well, which only compounded the problem. However, my job is relatively low-stress and I was not contagious by this time, so I went back to work as planned last Monday. (Mistake #2). By Friday, with two days left on the antibiotic cycle, it felt as though it was getting worse again.

By last night, I was not only sick, but also tired, discouraged and in full-out meltdown mode. (My poor hubby.) I took a hot bath and went to bed very early and prayed for a restful night. (Praise the Lord, I did indeed sleep very well.) This morning, I went back to the doctor who prescribed a new round of antibiotics and also gave me a cortisone injection.

Can I tell you what really bothers me about all this? What it has revealed about my true nature. First, I’m not nearly as strong as I like to believe, but much worse than that? My pride kept me from revealing my weakness and admitting my need. I’ve always looked at life with an optimistic point of view. I try to find a blessing in every situation. Nothing wrong with that. There is, however, something wrong when I can’t admit my typical outlook has taken a bit of a down turn, that I don’t feel much like rejoicing and that I’m downright frustrated. Why is it I’m so fearful of scaring people off by appearing too needy?

When the Lord lead me to this verse, I quickly realized I had failed miserably at following His formula. Though I was trying to keep up the appearance of joyful hope, its lack was quite evident. I had NOT been patient in affliction, nor had I been as faithful to prayer as I should have. Ouch. Needless to say, the Lord and I have spent a good bit of time together today to remedy this situation. As of tonight, I can honestly say I’m feeling a bit of improvement in my physical symptoms. Even more important, through the course of this day, the Lord has restored my joy. As I remain faithful in prayer, I’m trusting Him to help me be a more patient, patient. = )

I’m humbling myself before Him and you and asking for your prayers but also your forgiveness. For someone who says she wants to be “real” with you, I haven’t shown much evidence of that in the last couple of weeks. I pray the Lord keeps me faithful to sharing my heart as time goes on…even if that means revealing my ugly stuff. I thank Him for you and how He challenges me continually through you.

Word-Filled Wednesday

(from Heartlight.org)

I've spent much time recently in the book of Isaiah through our Breaking Free study. I'm gaining a whole new love and appreciation for this particular book of the Bible. This week, our study has directed us to many examples of the GLORY of God. The more I read and learn, the more I realize just how incomprehensible it really is!

For now, let me share just one thing I've learned and found so very interesting. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for "glory" is kavodh which means "weight, honor, esteem." The word kavodh comes from another word which means "to be renowned, to show oneself great or mighty." As author Beth Moore explains..."God's glory is not only something that reflects Him, but also part of who He is!"

In the New Testament, the Greek word for "glory" is doxa which means "the true apprehension of God or things." Beth Moore's translation: "His unchanging essence." Doxa comes from another word, dokeo meaning "to think or suppose." God's glory is the way He makes Himself recognizable."

I'm absolutely fascinated by the many different aspects of God's Glory. I'm planning to share a few more insights next week.

For more Word-Filled Wednesday posts, join us here...