Well, today is THE day. We are on the road-4 adults and 8 children, headed to Williamsburg, VA. Even though I am writing this on Friday, I can confidently say we are already having good time.
If you were in the Suburban with us, this is what you would see:
- The kids are watching videos or playing their Nintendos
- Griffin is probably multi-tasking: watching a video and drawing
- Blaire is reading or working on her book with Kennedy (her friend)-yes I said she is writing a book
- Scott and I are playing name that tune with artist as we listen to the all 80's station on XM
- I have pillows under back and side with a blanket around me-we all have blankets because Scott likes it cold.
Yesterday I talked about LeAnn's new site, She Cooks. I thought I would share one of my favorite LeAnn recipe. It is funny-it's called Chicken and "Rice" Casserole. LeAnn has an amazing cook book. All the P31 gals have one-it is a cook book you must have too. Here is the direct link to the downloadable pdf. You don't even have to wait on shipping-cool huh?
Sharing GraceChicken and Rice Casserole
1 package long-grain and wild rice mix (6oz) prepared as directed on box or use chicken broth
1/2 stick of butter
1 med. onion, finely chopped
2 stalks of celery with leaves, chopped
1/2 package of sliced baby bella mushrooms (optional)
4 oz cream cheese
1 package spinach, thawed and squeezed dry (optional)
3 cups cooked chicken
2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1 cup bread crumbs
1/2 grated parmesan cheese
1/2 stick butter
Preheat over to 350 degrees. Spray 13 X 9 non-stick cooking pan
Melt 1/2 stick butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and celery (and mushroom if you are using them) and saute until onions are transparent (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese to melt. If using spinach, add at this time.
In a large mixing bowl combine the chicken, 1 1/2 cups of the cheese, the prepared rice, soup, sour cream, milk, and salt and pepper. Stir in the onion mixture and combine.
Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheese over the top. Top with sliced almonds.
Melt the butter and stir in the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese to combine. Spread evenly over top of casserole.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Have a great weekend and week. I will miss ya'll!
37 Comments:
Hi everyone
good you are all enjoying your summer. we are in the thick of our winter here in Melbourne, went mountain hiking with my daughter and hubby today and it was so wet...were with umbrellas for the 4 hours up there, unfortunately a tree fell and hit one of the walkers, i pray she is well as she was rushed to hospital.
Today's reading,
Hosea told to accept his wife after running away to prostitution... it must have been hard for him, but God told him to forgive. i ask myself, Loice are you able to do this, or i just hold grudges anytime someone messes with me. If God can forgive me for all the prostitution i do on daily basis, then i have to learn to let go and forgive.
Hosea 4:You make vows and break them; you kill and steal and commit adultery. There is violence everywhere— one murder after another. 3 That is why your land is in mourning, and everyone is wasting away. Even the wild animals, the birds of the sky, and the fish of the sea are disappearing.
Does this sound like our world today, we have lost all moral sensitivity. what is wrong now looks to be right and Godliness looks weird to this generation. No wonder our world is mourning everywhere, earthquakes everywhere, oil spills, volcanoes, floods, wars, fires, name it and we see it in our day today.
Lord we pray for our world today. we have gone so far away from what you created us to do and that is to walk with you and have a daily relationship of love. Lord we ask that you would forgive us, forgive our leaders, forgive our brothers and sisters and may our consciousness of God awaken.
we want to return to you and worship you, and you alone.
Amen
Have a great weekend
Loice-melbourne
Have a great trip, Wendy!
I figured out the video thing a bit. It's not just Wendy's page but certain types of video, and I don't know what happened so I can't correct it. I can watch YouTube videos, though, so if someone watches her videos and doesn't mind clicking on it again to post the link that pops up, I'd be a very happy girl. If not, I'll just keep reading along!
I thought today's reading was pretty exciting, which might sound odd because Hosea wasn't exactly sharing happy news. Like you pointed out, Loice, that passage and a few others fit the world right now to a T. While I am afraid of what God might do to bring His people back to Him, if it means that He's coming back ... how exciting that will be!
Hosea 2:20 struck me as a verse that we could use to pray for unsaved spouses and children.
Hosea 3:4-5 Has this prophecy been fulfilled or is it happening now? Is it coming true in that Israel ceased to exist as a political entity for so long and has reappeared or does it mean something else?
Hosea 4:6 Oh, I liked this verse! Isn't it great? God gives real-life disciplines to bring us back to Him! He doesn't just wipe us all out or give everybody a case of nasty boils or something, but He makes the punishment fit the crime because He wants us stubborn people to learn our lesson already and come back to Him, the One who loves us and will care for us. Isn't that what we're supposed to do as parents? Lysa TerKeurst often talks about this on her blog and in her books. I like this parenting style, and it's so exciting to learn that it's straight from Him. I never noticed that before! :-)
My parents are coming to spend the weekend today, and I'm a bit behind - still have to go clean the bathroom! Have a great weekend!
Good morning, GIG’s,
My apologies for not posting yesterday (Friday). I was extremely busy hiding behind my Rock and telling the evil one to get his stinkin’ thinking’ away from me, concerning the “challenging” relationships I have with several in my family of origin. Whew! But the Lord was again gracious and merciful to me, and I’m back on solid ground today! Thank you, Lord Jesus. My closer walk with You has not taken away these episodes of stinkin’ thinkin’, but it has taught me how to get out of them faster and get back to my place of peace as a daughter of the Most High. Yours is the only opinion that matters, Lord, and I know, as You taught me yesterday in Isaiah 12:1-2
“In that day you will sing: I will praise You, O Lord!
You were angry with me, but not any more.
Now you comfort me.
See, God has come to save me.
I will trust in Him and not be afraid.
The Lord God is my strength and my song;
He has given me victory.”
I will be back later with a post with comments for some of you. But before I go get breakfast for Chuck, I have more children to add to our wonderful list (thank you, Lori)
Stephanie -- unborn Kailyn (did I spell it right?)
Amber -- toddle Emmi and unborn Baby Boy
Have a blessed, 4:8 day , friends. Some days it’s easier than others {smile}!
Peace and Gratitude,
Michelle in New England
P.S. Lori,my dear twin, I did this post using your "Word" method! Thank you so much for that helpful tip! Love ya!
Happy Saturday, Ya'll! I have to put a plug in for Lee Ann's book, too! "Sharing Grace" - I've enjoyed many recipes...plus, she has woven Bible verses throughout the book! The book ends with 'traditions, celebrations, hospitality & grace suggestions.'
Wendy, You all are on the road getting closer to Williamsburg! My husband likes the car cold, too! The fun is just beginning!
Dear Father, Thank you for bringing us together to witness your mighty deeds and miracles before our very own eyes! You are able to do immeasurably more than all we ask for all that we could possibly imagine! Eph. 3:20. A seed has been planted in each one of are unsaved husbands. We strongly feel that John’s seed is getting close to sprout! We are able to even observe now the work you are doing in his life! Praise You, dear Father! Together, across the miles we are waiting for your appointed time. Thank you, for giving us each other to encourage each other and not to give up. We anticipate Your goodness, and we are focusing our thoughts on Phil. 4:8; with You, we have the ability to dwell in peace, - a free blessing you grant us day after day. Today, sweet girlfriends, with great faith, we know without a doubt, our God will answer our prayer for John. (Matt 21:21) As we unite with each other, God will bring our request to pass (Matthew 18:19,20). Today, taking the time to pray specifically for John now(Luke 18:42, 43). We have lots to rejoice about; one being, “The LORD [our] God is with [us]; He is mighty to save” (Zephaniah 3:17). In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
PS I’m adding the new names and will keep doing so all week. Rhonda – noticed the pattern!!! My Mom had 3, c-sections…and was able to select her ‘dates’…she chose: 7 youngest, 17 middle, 27 oldest! Next weekend I’ll post a final ‘blog children’ list! So don’t be shy, pop-in, you don’t want to miss a chance to have your child covered in prayer!
Michelle, so glad you “see” you already, - so, missed you yesterday! You spoil us with your daily posts!
I’ll be right back with my post! Hugs, Lori
Why did God allow Israel to be overthrown? “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou has rejected knowledge, (today, history repeating itself) I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou has forgotten the law of they God, I will also forget they children” (KJV Hosea 4:6).
The Israelites sinned; they violated God’s law which was clearly presented to them by their ancestors.
*The people lived contrary to what the law told them to do.
*The people sexually sinned.
*The people worshipped other “things” rather than the One True God.
Hosea is a beautiful picture of God the Father and the nation of Israel- (unfaithful wife)
One Guide (the Holy Bible) tells us how to live. Seems easy enough, but, look how many people fail to read it every day. It’s the most purchased book in the World, but at the same time, the most unread. We can’t live something that we choose to brush off. “he that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me (John 14:212).
Lord, erase our prideful thoughts, for we too are sinners. We, too act like adulterers when we put other “things” before You, and Your Word. Keep us in Your Word every single day. Give each one of us the desire to read through your Book, every single year. As we read your Word, may we obey the Holy Spirit as He guides our steps and shows us the Truth of Your Word. May our single days of victory, turn into living a victorious life, pleasing to You. We take time today to say thank you for the marvelous blessings You give us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Enjoy the weekend favorite Bible-Studying Girlfriends! Love & Hugs coming from AZ. - AZ.
Yikes, I signed my name, AZ! But, you probably knew anyway it was me back again!ha-ha
smile...Lori
Loice, I'm glad you popped in! We have missed your posts. How is wangui doing at school? Do ya'll have vacation then - during summertime? I guess you must be in school now since it is winter there! Some 'cool' air would feel good over here!
I'm hoping that walker was not hurt too bad.
Hugs, Lori
Hosea 5:1 Pay attention you leaders of Israel..For you have led the people into a snare…
Is this what our leaders are doing by not supporting Israel today? It makes me sad to see the things that are said about Israel and the blame that they are given. We are told to support them and are going against God’s will by attitude that is prevalent today.
I agree with what Loice wrote. The world has gone too far from God and His teachings are ignored. In Hosea 5:15 it says: Then I will return to my place until they admit their guilt ant turn to me. For as soon as trouble comes they will earnestly search for me. Is God humbling us , so we will return to Him?
Hosea 6:6 I want you to show love, not offer sacrifices. I want you to know me. God wants our hearts, not just our time. He wants an intimate relationship with us. I pray that I will continue to grow in my relationship to my Father, God. To truly know Him.
Have a great weekend
Linda
WA
Please add my boys to the list, Peter and Paul
Morning sisters,
Wendy I know you are on the road right now on your way...fun! Thank you for the recipe too, I am so glad you posted that! I even commented on LeAnn's blog yesterday I could not wait until she posted that one since you were raving about it on you blog :)
I have not read all your comments yet, but I will. I have been spending the morning writing myself on the reading. Oh my sisters, today's reading drew me in and there is so much! I made TONS of notes in my Bible, but what I want to share is the from the first part. I am going to copy my post I wrote on my blog this morning. Sometimes things stand out so much to me I write them out on "a journey to freedom" or "standing in the gap." The latter is mostly for prayer and so I posted this on "a journey to freedom." If you guys have a second check out my butterfly pictures that have now become my headers on both blogs. I took those at bug camp this week :) I have been wanting to get a butterfly pic forever and got some GREAT ones!
Ok, on to what I wrote...
"But then I will win her back once again. I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her there. I will return her vineyards to her and transform the Valley of Trouble into a gateway of hope.
She will give herself to me there,
as she did long ago when she was young, when I freed her from her captivity in Egypt. When that day comes,” says the Lord, “you will call me ‘my husband’ instead of ‘my master.’ O Israel, I will wipe the many names of Baal from your lips,
and you will never mention them again." Hosea 2:14-17
Something that just amazes me about God is how He will speak to us through His Word. How active and alive it is and will speak to us about our particular situations and things we are praying for, struggling with or grappling over in our minds.
Today in the stillness and quietness of morning I sat down to meet with God. He met me here. I opened up my Bible to read my daily reading and the words on the page spoke to me in a profound way.
Over the past few weeks I have really been thinking of when I was actually saved. When I was eleven I was baptized, but I do not remember much around that time in my life. I remember the baptism, but I don't remember the confession of faith. Did I ask Jesus to be Lord over my life? What did I pray? I just don't know. What I do know is that at the age of 29 God sought me out and I totally surrendered my heart and life to Him. For years I have thought that was when salvation happened, but lately I have been drawn back to that time when I was a kid and was baptized.
As I read the verses above in Hosea, I realized that this was what God did in my life. Israel had been unfaithful to God, serving other gods, choosing to follow their own wills instead of the Lord's. But even though they had to suffer and be handed over to their enemies, God says that He will win them back once again (Hosea 2:14). He did this by leading them into the desert, the wilderness through captivity by the Assyrians. Throughout scripture we see God do some of His most powerful work in wilderness settings. God would bring His people to the wilderness to speak words of true comfort to them-not the fickle comfort the world gives, but the eternal comfort that can only come from drawing close to Him (Matthew 5:4; 2 Corinthians 1:4).*
God led me into a wilderness right after Will was born. It was there in that wilderness that He spoke tenderly to me. My wilderness was a place where I hit bottom, but it was also the place where I found God. It was there I received words of true comfort. Words that said He loves me unconditionally(Jeremiah 31:3), that He is full of grace and mercy (Psalm 103:8-14), and that He has a good plan and purpose for my life (Jeremiah 29:11). It was in that wilderness I surrendered my life fully to Christ in complete abandon. My Valley of Trouble became my gateway to hope (Hosea 2:15).
The rest of verse 15 says, "She will give herself to me there, as she did long again when she was young." As she did when she was young, there it is in black and white, words on a page. The answer my heart has been struggling with lately. When I was 11 I did give myself to Christ, but it was not full abandon. There is a difference in salvation and complete abandon to Jesus.
It was at the age of eleven that Satan came in as well. Funny how the same time I gave my life over to Jesus, Satan came in and tried to destroy me. Abuse by my step-granddad, father going into rehab, loosing of all material possessions.
continued...
Hosea 2:6 says, "For this reason I will fence her in with thorn bushes. I will block her path with a wall to make her lose her way." God had me fenced in. The whole time, He was there. He had a hedge of protection around me that protected me from my utter destruction from Satan. If it were not for the grace of God I would have been shown no mercy whatsoever. Only what God allowed into my life for His purposes got past that hedge of protection. It was allowed to develop me now in what His ultimate plan is for my life.*
Through all this and my time in the wilderness I know God intimately (Hosea 2:16). He has wiped away names of any other gods this world offers and I my love is only for Jesus Christ (Hosea 2:17). As Hosea calls the people to repentance he says, "Come let us return to the LORD. He has torn us to pieces; now he will heal us. He has injured us; now he will bandage our wounds. In just a short time he will restore us, so that we may live in his presence. Oh that we might know the LORD! Let us press on to know him" (Hosea 6:1-3a).
He called me to return. I was torn and injured, but God healed, bandaged and restored. I live now in His presence. My cry is that I might know the LORD! I press on to know Him. As Paul writes, "I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me" (Philippians 3:13). I run my race with endurance (Hebrews 12:1) and at the end my desire is to look back and say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have remained faithful" (2 Timothy 4:7).
Lord, I want to know You, I want to see Your face, I want to know You more!
continued...
Ok sisters, I need to go get ready to head out this morning. Signing Will up to play soccer in the fall today and getting my hair color fixed- yeah!
I will be back to read comments later on this afternoon or in the morning in my quiet time.
Love you sisters, have a great weekend!
PS John was talking about reading his Bible last night. I am praying for wisdom to talk to him about something he was reading that he does not understand.
Wow, Brandee! PROFOUND! God opened up His verses in an alive and active way to you this morning! Thank you for sharing! Hugs, Lori
Ya'll... I promise... not all of my recipes are "that long" as Wendy mentioned yesterday! That cracked me up. Seriously... if I can make it, you can make it.
I'm thinking one of her videos may need to be a little cooking demonstration with Wendy :)
Sweet Blessings,
LeAnn
Weekend thoughts -
Travel and vacation prayers for Wendy. All those kids - can't imagine it! Electronics must help. We had to resort to spying games - "I see something purple". Also states of origin on license plates. I think some trips we got up to 30 or so. Big bonus for different countries - Canada, Mexico. In those times Hawaii was counted as a different country - so that shows how old I am. I will be 71 in September!
Please add my 2 adult children to your list. They are probably older than some of you. Laurie (42) a Lt. and Navy social worker. And yes, unmarried with a boyfriend half the world away. Brett, just turned 38, in Arizona and separated from his wife. I have no grandchildren to spoil so I try to reach out in my community to help others. You know, "bloom where you are planted".
I do live on the Gulf of Mexico, way down south in Florida. The oil spill has not reached here yet. My prayer is that it will soon be contained and no further damage done to all the ocean critters and fishing industry. Unemployment is at 15% and although I am retired, there are so many losing homes to foreclosure, 1 in 8 locally. Local food banks are being strained as well as other resources. I pray for this great country of ours to return to the ideals upon which it was founded. "One nation, under God". So many issues to turn over to God!
Not all doom and gloom here - I rest on the promises and prophecies of God and his never ending love, compassion and forgiveness for all his children. Amen
Dixie in Florida
Amy if yu haven't seen yesterday's video here it is.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U--rVHiGZyc&feature=player_embedded
What a morning...reading Brandee's testimony and God's confirmation. The Word does have just what we need when we need it. thank you for sharing with us.
Dixie, I read that 5 governors: AL, MS, LA, TX, FL, were calling for a day of prayer for the Gulf Oil Crisis. God can do the impossible!
While reading today, I kept thinking of our nation and the evil that is everywhere seducing our people. Father God, forgive us from turning away from You and going our own way. I repent for our sins and seek Your forgiveness, and mercy. May we once again be that "Nation Under God".
Loice, send us some of your cold. We are having extremely hot weather, but then it is summer here!
LeAnn, I meant to go to your site yesterday. The casserole looks decilious....With me on pureed foods, I guess I could puree it. I'll sign on today for your emails.
Have a blessed weekend and Wendy enjoy your vacation.
Teeny
I found myself thinking what Prince wrote, about history repeating itself. Seems to be quite a parallel between OT and 21st century.
Brandee, I am in awe of your testimony and also your husband's (I think) interest in the Bible. I always find little bits of myself in the journey of others.
I have never actually "studied" the OT, just kind of quickly read through it. I had no idea how tragic it was at times and don't think I could get through it without the support of this group.
Lori, I know I described my kids, but never actually asked you to add them to your prayer list - but please do:
Danielle (age 26)
Denise (age 24)
Jimmy (almost 12)
I have not experienced adolescence with a boy - a bit nervous about it! His voice is starting to squeak a bit. I want my little boy back, but most move on! It just seemed easier with the girls - guess because I am a girl.
Haven't read today's lesson yet, so will be back later.
Rhonda in New York State
Wendy,
I pray that your trip is as peaceful as can be with all the kids in the car. May God open this time up for you and your family to get to know each other more. May this be a blessed time for everyone.
The readings today were full of nuggets. Most of you pointed out the ones I highlighted too.
Loice, amen to what you said. Our country is slowly turning its back on Israel. We have to remember that God promised in Genesis 12:3 "I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you..." The only reason why the US has not been judged for our sins is because of our stance with Israel. We need to pray for a revival in this nation. To turn back to its Christian roots and heritage. If not, we will go back to meeting underground, in homes just like during the early church days.
Brandee, (((HUGS))) to you sister. And Praise God for the work He is continuing to do to you and your family. Your life is a great testimony.
Amy, re Hosea 3:4-5. Verse 4 is happening now - they have no temple, no sacrifice. Verse 5 I believe will happen during the great tribulation after we've been raptured. That is the time when 144,000 Jewish believers will be sealed (12,000 from each tribe) to witness to the tribulation believers mentioned in Rev. 7.
One of my nuggets today reminded me of you, Lori, Hosea 6:3 "Oh that we might know the LORD! Let us press on to know Him. He will respond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn or the coming of rains in early spring." This is the secret to overcoming. As we go through our difficult days (I hear ya, Michelle), let us press on and get to know our LORD daily. Like Peter said after many of Jesus' disciples turned their backs on him and walked with him no more in John 6:66 (666 get it?). In reply to Jesus' question if they will also go away. Peter replied, "Where else can we go? You have the words to eternal life."
There is nowhere else to go. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him.
Grace and peace to all of you.
Hi GIG’s,
Brandee, my goodness, what a testimony! Thank you for sharing your heart with us. You are an admirable woman, wife, mother, and role model! God is doing amazing things to you and through you! Praying for your husband. (Ladies, my husband, too, says very little when I bring God into the conversation - for now, anyway.)
G&P, thank you (once again) for the research you bring to your posts. It helps this neophyte OT girl understand so much better. I’m with you, Rhonda in NY, I could never get through the OT without the help of this group (and I’m 53, too, BTW!)
Betty, thank you for the update on Evelyn. It brings to mind my dear sister, Denise, who has been amazing us with her comebacks for 8 years now! I pray for the same for Evelyn.
Lori, I loved your prayer today, and recorded the line “May our single days of victory turn into living a victorious life, pleasing to You.” What an awesome way to think about our Walk -- moment to moment, gold star to gold star, day to day….Wow!
Amy, I don’t know much about computers, but maybe you need to update your program that plays videos. Or, maybe you have a different browser you could try. My Mozilla Firefox was weird last week, so my son suggested I use Internet Explorer instead. Then a few days later Firefox was fine again.
Have a 4:8 weekend, all!
Peace and Gratitude,
Michelle in New England
One more thought...
Since Thursday when we read in Isaiah 10 how the Lord used the evil king of Assyria, I have been doing a bit of pondering about my habit of blaming the evil one for certain actions people take, and also for my episodes of "stinkin' thinkin". I'm beginning to realize that I have a ways to go in being able to discern whether something is the work of the evil one, or whether it may very well be the work of my God -- to teach me something, or bring me closer to him, or get my attention, or discipline me! Lord, help me develop the spiritual eyes to see the difference.
Peace and Gratitude,
Michelle in New England
Brandee - you touched my heart with your posts today. I saw things through your heart that I am certain I would have missed. You have amazing passion for Him and your words are ablaze with your love.
Thank you for pouring out your heart to touch ours.
My dear GIGs,
I get some much more than I could ever express from this group of women. It is a true blessing to me and I often speak of you to others around me - hopefully opening the door to other folks.
Lori, dear sweet sister, please add my 2 adorable children to your list:
Ty (18 in August) is a 2-sport Varsity athlete, and will be applying to colleges in the fall.
Shannon (16 in September) also an Athlete but also struggles with consequences surrounding her remarried father and step-mother.
They are fabulous kids and I do the best as a single parent. Your prayers are coveted. Thank you so much.
Again - you guys bless me more than you will ever know.
Wendy, safe travels for all - and make many memories!!
Lori
Thanks for asking about Wangui. She is pushing on, but we are still waiting for a break through. The schools are on a two weeks winter break, our summer holiday is in January.
we are taking the winter break at Sydney blue mountains, we are a family that loves hiking/walking and we look for every bit of opportunity to go hiking, marathons and what not. we leave this Thursday and get back on Wednesday ready for school week after.
I quietly follow the readings, sometimes its hard to keep up with the time differences, but i pop in every day and pray for the needs presented.
be blessed.
Loice
i am doing catch up in my readings and here are a few of the verses that stand out to me:
Isaiah 8:12“Don’t call everything a conspiracy, like they do, and don’t live in dread of what frightens them.
13 Make the Lord of Heaven’s Armies holy in your life.
He is the one you should fear. He is the one who should make you tremble.
As the people of the world look at the various situations and make their own judgments, those of us who truly love the Lord are to base our judgments on the word of God. I am reminded of the economic crises that we all just experienced. As a christian, was i full of fear like every one of what is happening and the impending poverty, OR did i put my hope and trust in My everlasting God who holds our future in the palm of His hands.
The Lord of Heaven, he alone i want to fear and put my trust in.
In Isaiah 10-the King of Assyria said...
“By my own powerful arm I have done this. With my own shrewd wisdom I planned it. I have broken down the defenses of nations and carried off their treasures I have knocked down their kings like a bull.
14 I have robbed their nests of riches and gathered up kingdoms as a farmer gathers eggs.
No one can even flap a wing against me or utter a peep of protest.”
i have found myself behaving like the Assyrian king, when i have had success which happens often, i find myself thinking, Loice, ain't i smart? ain't i hard working... and on and on i can wallow in my pride?
God i confess that nothing i can do without you. i am nothing besides you and please forgive me for my inner sense of arrogance thinking that alone i can make. Lord i know i can do nothing apart from you.
Amen
Happy Sabbath!
I thought I would start my quiet time off this Sunday morning with you all :) Just got done reading all the comments...I agree with everyone and the points about our country. I made many notes to the sides of the text about what is going on right now in the US. Through out the reading God says, "they don't know me" (4:6), "Oh, that we might know the LORD!" (6:3, "I want you to know me" (6:6).
Knowing the Lord is the key to everything. Without Him nothing makes sense, there is no hope. My verse from today's reading was Hosea 14:9, "Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the LORD are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them." Walking in the Lord's paths and truths lead to life, all other only leads to death.
Lori, your prayer was amazing! Thank you all for your faithful prayers for my husband. Know that I pray over our list on this blog each week. Be encouraged sisters in what is going on with my John. If God can turn his heart he can turn ANYONE's! It takes faithful, believing prayer and IT WILL HAPPEN! John is getting up again today and heading to church with us this morning. Transformation is taking place right before my eyes and ladies, it is amazing. KEEP praying for your husbands and loved ones! Never give up! I am on my knees every morning on his behalf and even when he is saved I will continue to do so. I don't want him settling for just salvation, I want him to have freedom and to be all that God made him to be. I want him to know Him as I know Him, as those of us on here know Him, seeking and living for Him daily. Salvation is only the beginning :) There is warfare to be done and I plan on doing it on his behalf! Amy, thank you for pointing out that verse to pray yesterday. I noticed one today as well, Hosea 10:12b, "Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the LORD."
Teeny mentioned the day of prayer today in several states, I heard about this on KLOVE the other day. I am not sure if our church is going to participate here in TN. Our Pastor gets involved in things like that when he hears about them. We will see this morning in service. Our country desperately needs the Lord and to return to Him. Hosea 11:8-9 talks about how our sin breaks God's heart. His heart has got to be just ripped open when He sees what we have become. A friend from high school posted something on her FB page about teens today and some of the things the girls are doing. She is an OBGYN and it just made me hit my knees. Lord, help us! We desperately need You!
Ok dear sisters, I am getting off of here. You all have a blessed Sabbath. Off to church and to spend the day with my boys.
Blessings and Love,
Brandee, TN
Restful Sabbath…..All,
Wendy if your popping in today. HI friend… safe travels and many happy Family Memories.
Brandee….May the Lord Bless and Keep You….May His face shine upon you and give you His Peace. Thanks Sister….Want to say so much of what you are experiencing but (me and words). They are there but …expressing them. How? It is hard for me.
Grace & Peace ….Chuck Smith commentary….Had me do a lot of pondering. That was good!!
Today’s readings at church for me…. the meaning behind them since doing this study….. The readings came from: 1Kgs 19:16, 19-21.….Gal 5:1, 13-18.….Lk 9:51-62
Just talking about the Spirit the second reading.
Gal 5:1, 13-18
Brothers and sisters:
For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.
For you were called for freedom, brothers and sisters. But do not use this freedom as and opportunity for the flesh; rather, serve one another through love. For the whole law is fulfilled in one statement, namely, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. But if you go on biting and devouring one another, beware that you are not consumed by one another.
I say, then: live by the Spirit and you will certainly not gratify the desire of the flesh. For the flesh has desires against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you may not do what you want. But if you are guided by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
Our Sunday bulletin after reading these 3 readings…..
“Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?”
Think about what the disciples are asking. They want to show the Samaritans how wrong they are. The kingdom of God is at hand. Jesus is preaching, bringing that kingdom. Your village was chosen to hear the message, and you didn’t want any part of it. Lord, don’t these people deserve the wrath of God?
Are we ever in the disciples’ shoes? They’ve been with Jesus throughout his ministry. They’ve seen a lot. They offer Jesus some help. Did they think it was in their power to have God send fire from heaven? They obviously were close to Jesus. Had they seen Jesus destroy any villages with fire? They felt they were part of the power that was coming with the reign of God.
But they had seriously misunderstood how Jesus operates. Jesus “turned and rebuked them.” He ended this discussion pretty abruptly.
If we use our vision of discipleship to make others suffer, we’ve made a wrong turn. Do we “lord it over” others? That’s not from the Lord. Do we look for where the wrath of God should be brought in? We don’t see the way Jesus sees. When we see suffering, do we try to figure out what those folks did to deserve it? We’re asking the wrong question.
When we follow Christ, he asks us to leave our old agendas behind. There is a subtle challenge here: We must make honest judgments, do our best to follow Jesus, and lead others too. But if we find ourselves wanting to judge others, thinking we can read their hearts, we’ve taken on a job that’s not ours.
We are called to freedom. As Christ’s disciples, we are meant to call others to freedom.
Dan Finucane
Sunday bulletins@liguori.org
I’m so realizing I need Him daily,
Rhonda in MI
Lori….Thanks so much for suggesting praying for our children….I have a great list…..Lets put up the prayer hedge around them. (Thanks Brandee).
Jacque....Missing you!!
Just Me Rhonda
Good Morning, Sweet Sisters, Today’s reading –so, so good…
Right off the bat we see that “worshipping other gods” (9:1) brings many consequences (3 & 4). “God will not forget. He will surely punish them for their sins” (9).
Lord, help our hearts not to become fickle (2).
Daily, we must ask God to investigate us, so we will be aware of our sin. “Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the LORD” (12).
Help us not to ‘play church’ “They call me the Most High, but they don’t truly honor me” (11:7).
“Stay away from idols!” (14:8)
And, the final words of Hosea are a reminder to all of us today:
“Let those who are wise understand these things.
Let those with discernment listen carefully.
The paths of the LORD are true and right,
And righteous people live by walking in them.
But in those paths sinners stumble and fall.” (14:9)
If we choose to walk with God=obedience, peace, blessings
If we choose to be rebellious = we stumble
By staying in God’s Word every single day, we will be provided with the wise understanding He wants us to know. When we seek to listen to him, he will give us discerning ears. As we focus on His Word, He will guide us down his straight and narrow path. If we surround ourselves with encouraging Believers, they will point us back to His Truth, if we stumble and fall.
Thank you dear Lord for your precious Word. “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God (Psalm 42:1). Lord, keeping each one of us on this blog, thirsting for You, -You Alone! Amen.
Blessings sweet & lovely girlfriends. My heart loves each one of you! Enjoy today!
Hugs, Lori
PS I am keeping the list of kids’ updated…will post it this week. We will place a prayer hedge around them! Smile Rhonda/Brandee!
PS Sweet Wendy, Praying for harmony today with you all, hoping that you smell a 'sweetness in the air,' that you all are being blessed by a deeper bonding with each other.
Hugs, Lori
Wendy, hope your vacation recharges your batteries and brings rest as well as many memories.
Lori, please add my two adult children to the list and thank you.
daughter -Sarah, husband Keith, and four of the best children, Caleb, Zavier, Katerina, and Caralena
Son- David.
This weekend readings were just chalked full of nuggets. Grace Emmerson writes, "Hosea is not an easy book to read and is often uncomfortable. He points out that sin is serious, its consequences devastating. God's love is not superficial and sentimental but costly and transforming. It cost Jesus the cross."
Nuggets from Hosea:God wants me (us) to come to Him (12:6), to act with love and justice (12:6- ouch!), always depend on Him (12:6- not on others!), to acknowledge no other god but Him (13:4), confess to Him (14: 2-3).
He will heal me, love me, answer my prayers (in accordance to His will for me) and care for me (14:4, 8).
Wishing you all a wonderful Sabbath.
Gaylene
Happy Sunday!
What I call a "God Giggle" from Hosea 7:8 The people of Israel mingle with godless foreigners, making themselves as worthless as a half-baked cake!
I have heard that expression but never from the Bible. Mostly that something was a half baked idea of mine! Visual - picture a scrumptious barely tan colored cake. In anticipation you cut into it only to find the inside raw, lukewarm and runny. Ugh! What a disappointment!
I must be such a disappointment to God so many times in my lukewarm attitude. Guess it is time to turn up the flame. Read somewhere recently that in order to get the best fruit you have to go out on a limb. At any age, going out on a limb is scary but particularly when you fear a fall with brittle bones.
Dear Lord - somehow, someway I am going to think about going out on a limb this week and also turning up my flame (not both at the same time). I trust you will be holding me in the palm of your hand as you have all my life lest I fall too far or get burned up or out.
Amen.
Dixie in Florida
Dixie, Bless your young heart! You make me smile and think!
Love you!
Gaylene
I have happy news and a question so far today. My dad's situation at work has been resolved - the girl threatening him was fired. He feels bad for her because work opportunities are few in her county and is scared about what the other employees will say, especially because the manager liked this girl, but he should be safe now! He's still looking for another job, though.
I have a question about tomorrow, too - about our fasting day. Tomorrow I'm scheduled to go on an out-of-town playdate with a friend and her children. I have no problem fasting while on this trip, but because I'll be gone all day, I won't have the concentrated prayer time that I usually have for this day. Is it wrong to fast on another day so that I have more prayer time, or should I just fast tomorrow and do the best I can? I don't want to break my word and not do as I said I would .... any thoughts would be appreciated!
My parents just headed home, and we're all tired ... looking forward to a lazy - yet boiling! - Sunday evening!
Yes I am here, thank you Rhonda! I am so grateful to have this refuge every day!
The recent words about our thoughts and the battlefield of the mind weigh heavily and seem very real right now. We are experiencing such uneasiness in my workplace, as one partner is leaving in a month with no replacement in sight. The remaining partner is losing sleep and so full of anxiety as to how he will care for so many patients, and he worries about the future of the practice. I told him about the stinkin’ thinkin’! It seemed so appropriate that we were in Isaiah, and I sent him some of the verses (he asked) to help him see that the internal struggles are really with our trust in the Lord and His plan. I also reminded him of Phil4:8 and how we need to stay positive and grateful, to allow goodness to continue to reign. Soon I will no longer have a doc to work for. I never thought after 15 years I would be laid off! It’s wait and see for now. I have to follow my own advice, struggle as it is, and just have faith and make each day count. Enough of this about me, but I was glad to be able to offer God’s words to my boss, who is very open to it and very much in need of encouragement.
Gotta offer my kids’ names here-- even though things might be going fine today for some, there will surely be valleys ahead (esp with little ones), and prayer is always the first line of defense.
Mary is 34, nurse practitioner and instructor, husb Andy, kids are Maddie 9, twins Ben and Jack 3 1/2, and Will 2
Laura is 31, ESL teacher, husb TJ, kids are Gabriel 4 and Emilia 2
Andrew is 29, anesthesiology resident, engaged
Stephen is 27, in radio and music
Michael is 24, finding his way.
The enemy is busier than ever messing in my mind with Michael. It’s overwhelming. Just as God let His children of Israel suffer in order to bring them back, we are having to do this, and it hurts us so much to see him suffer with ever-increasing financial burdens and an unreliable job. A time to give and a time to withhold – it’s so hard. Sigh. He remains distant. He has a huge heart, but this can really weigh him down. Thank you friends for your prayers for both his immediate and future needs.
Everyone, your prayers and testimonies and news are so precious and uplifting! I keep you all close to my heart. It’s so exciting to have a whole bible family of children to love and pray for! What a beautiful idea!
Wishing a restful and fun vacation to Wendy!
Blessings to all,
Jacque
Happy Sunday everyone!
I think this is the first time that I've read through Hosea and although I made a lot of notes for Saturday's reading, I'll just post the verses that caught my eye from Sunday's reading.
Hosea 10:12, "Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord, until he comes and showers righteousness on you."
It is time to seek the Lord!
11:3-4, "It was I who taught Ephraim to walk, taking them by the arms; but they did not realize it was I who healed them. I led them with cords of kindness, with ties of love; I lifted the yoke from their neck and bent down to feed them." In my NIV Study Bible notes it said, "This picture of a father teaching his child to walk is one of the most tender in the OT"....I think that's what drew my attention to this verse. After reading about how God will destroy the people, their children, their crops...it went to these 2 verses about a loving Father.
Happy vacation Wendy!
Jacque,
Just sending you a ((hug)) tonight.
....and placing my hand upon your forehead now and whispering in your ear...God Bless You and Peace be with you.
Rhonda
Post a Comment
Home