"I will defile my Temple, the source of your security and pride, the place your heart delights."
Ezekiel 24: 21
Ezekiel 24: 21
My Take Aways
Something Old:
What is the source of my security?
God
Scott
Our future as a married couple and our family
God's Word
The seemingly "certain" things in life: home, a job, health
Am I proud? Yes. Of what?
My marriage
My family
The few accomplishments I have made
My relationship with God
Where or in what does my heart delight?
God's Word
God
The same things I consider my source of security-hmm?
Something New:
Ezekiel 29:14
God will restore Egypt. This was news to me.
Something to Do:
Delight myself in the Lord and He will give me the desires of my heart. (Psalm 37:3)
24 Comments:
Dear Wendy,
Thank you for your words of prayer this morning and thank you again for sharing so openly from your heart! I too was struck again by the death of Ezekiel's wife (like last year). I saw it was coming when I did the reading for yesterday and I was not looking forward to it.
One thought came to me today while I was reading, and another struck a chord with me when I listened to your words and read the commentaries.
1. Ezekiel foreshadowed Yahweh and the death of His Son, Jesus.
2. Ezekiel did not have the promise of everlasting life that we do; he did not have the hope of seeing his beloved again in heaven as we do; yet he acted as if he had hope. He really acted with great faith! Matthew Henry says it best:
"(1.) Here there was something peculiar, and Ezekiel, to make himself a sign to the people, must put a force upon himself and exercise an extraordinary piece of self-denial. Note, Our dispositions must always submit to God's directions, and his command must be obeyed even in that which is most difficult and displeasing to us. (2.) Though mourning for the dead be a duty, yet it must always be kept under the government of religion and right reason, and we must not sorrow as those that have no hope, nor lament the loss of any creature, even the most valuable, and that which we could worst spare, as if we had lost our God, or as if all our happiness were gone with it;...
We may suppose that Ezekiel prayed that, if it were the will of God, his wife might be spared to him, but God would not hear him; and should he be heard then in his intercessions for this provoking people? No, it is determined: God will take away the desire of your eyes. Note, The removal of the comforts of others should awaken us to think of parting with ours too; for are we better than they? We know not how soon the same cup, or a more bitter one, may be put into our hands, and should therefore weep with those that weep, as being ourselves also in the body."
Deep thoughts to ponder today!
I also have a confession to make; I did not get the messages to Ammon, Moab, Edom, of Philistia. I read them twice, but no nugget appeared. It is easy for me to say "these were ancient enemies of Israel, there is nothing for me here." I am sure that is not true! This is the Word of God and everything in it is God-breathed and worthy for our instruction. I guess I just could not take it all in today.
Peace be with you all today!
Karen, Basel
I was astounded by just how much God asked of Ezekiel today. To not even mourn for one's wife? Incredible! God asked a LOT of Ezekiel, but He asked even more of Jesus. I guess seeing how Ezekiel was a physical example of what was coming up for the Israelites mmay have made some of them stop and take notice of him, although I admit - would I stop my day and take notice of some man who tied himself up and talked gibberish most of the time, or would I write it off as 'weird' and just go about my day? Would I stop and take the time to try to comfort him in a time of sorrow or chalk it up to another oddity of that guy over there? Hmmmm.....
But ultimately, I'm glad that God doesn't ccall us to be this kind of example to the world. We don't have to be 'types' of Jesus because He's already here. We're supposed to let our light shine, but we don't have to go to extreme measures to do it - just follow His wherever it leads, and many times that's just serving our families and churches, choosing God in many little interactions throughout the day. That can still be hard, but He has made me grateful today to be changing diapers and potty training and teaching reading and holding fussy babies instead of warning the rest of the world!
Karen, I know that Philistia is Palestine, and what stood out to me about each of these people groups is that they disobeyed in some pretty basic ways, and at least this one is still struggling politically. I'm not sure what the other groups are called now, but if I have a chance amongst all my stuff today I want to find out. If they are still unsettled, too, maybe this passage could be the reason??
Wendy, thanks for sharing your lists ... I'm going to think about that today and try to write mine down if naptime ever comes ....
Have a great Monday!
Good Monday morning FIG! I had a busy weekend wedding dress shopping...and then a day of recovery on Sunday. Glad to be back!
My source of security:
Jesus
Husband
family
job
home
friends
Am I proud:
sadly, I am too prideful...in myself. This is a big sin area in my life that I am now acknowledging and asking others to hold me accountable...I ALWAYS have to be right. Ugh. Even writing that sounds pathetic.
I am also proud of:
The Lord
my family
my home
( I just gotta get "me" off that list!)
In what does my heart delight?
Knowing God more and more thru reading the Bible and praise and prayer
my family
friends
being at home
Karen I read that the Ammonites were the descendants of Lot's incestuous relationship with his youngest daughter; and the Moabites were the ancestors of his incestuous relationship with his eldest daughter...the Edomites were descendants of Esau...
All these years later they continue to pay for sin. And now they were prideful (there's that UGH word) in their reactions to Isreal's defeat and we know that God punishes pride.
I also noticed in Jeremiah 34:17 God tells the people He will set them free to be destroyed...this is what freedom (no attachment or responsibility to God) means...and we see it today...those who want to be "free" to do anything...they are being destroyed by their own free will.
Jeremiah 21:9 Tells us (paraphrase) that those who surrender are rewarded with life. Amen to that! That's what I know happened to me once I surrendered my heart to Jesus.
Praising Him!
Morgen
Hello Everyone~ Wendy, thank you for your lesson this morning. Much to ponder and think about today.
Something Old:
The continuing of disobedience, - their own ways, wants, and desires kept their focus on themselves.
Something New:
What had these people chosen? Their “joy and glory, their heart’s desire, their dearest treasure (their stronghold’s)” were not God, himself, but rather, ‘other things.’
There was only one way God could get their attention back, and that was to discipline them. What is God’s desire, then & today? “you will know that I am the Sovereign LORD” (Ezekiel 24:24). He repeats this longing that He has for His people today, - at least 10 times. He is our Father. It is his desire that we know Him.
And something for me to do: (says Lynn, in OR - smile)(we miss you!)
“Apply your heart to instructions and your ears to words of knowledge” (Proverbs 23:12).
Reading God’s Word today, and listening to His Spirit guide my steps. It’s a perseverance, a daily exercise, we must put into practice. On purpose we must be ready to refocus when our mind drifts away from where it should not be. Until heaven meets Earth we must cling to that mighty power that is within us -never doubting His presence for one minute! Setting out to have a 4:8 day, and anticipating knowing Him more than I did yesterday!
Today in my Bible, I reread a slip of paper that has been tucked away for over a year! Liz from Alaska posted it, and today, it’s worth re-posting! Liz, we miss your wisdom!
“These are the instructions” and “by these instructions you will know” (Lev. 12:46,47).
“The Bible is our daily bread. Each day we are given new eyes and connected heart and soul not just with God and each other, but with those who lived before us; who, despite different circumstances, fell prey to the same faults and longings as we do today and whose lessons become ours, and whose hurts become as our own. He is the LORD our God, and I am so blessed to be journeying with so many others who lean on him and digest his word as part of their daily diet. You are all precious in sight – may you enjoy the richness of his love”
And, sisters, I could not agree more with sweet Liz! Hugs, Lori
PS Karen, Judah’s enemies (Ammon, Moab, Edon, Philistia, Zedekiah, (and Tyre-tomorrow) receive a promise of destruction from the Lord. They were each told how (what they did against God) -they did wrong. That was my take-away. They were being warned.
Dear Stiff-necked Girlfriend’s! [now, that’s a switch for a greeting!]
After reading your post yesterday, Karen, wow, I could see clearly – yes, we really are just like those Israelites! Forgive us Father, investigate us today, show us your way, open up the sin that is looming in/around us, keeping us from knowing You even deeper! Loved your prayer!
Whoa, Morgen, dress-shopping, and now Monday morning! Friday is coming! smile
Jennifer Renee, thinking about you on vacation and hoping you are enjoying the time with your family! We can count on you to keep us straight in the date department! Thank you!
We got some of your rain, too Jane! And, I have to say, PTL, God sheltered my 16 year old who got caught in it. AZ thunderstorms hit out of the blue! He could not see out of the front windshield, and was following the lights ahead of him! Of course, he was trying to beat the curfew!!! Yikes! We had to have a little talk about this, how he could have pulled over and waited it out. But, God saved him! Thank you, LORD! I was thinking again bout Chuck and the angels he had all around his vehicle, Michelle! God in His mercy protects us more than we ever know. His myriad of angels follow us – praise You, Father!
GP, have not played that particular game you spoke of, but love family time around a game, myself! The 3 others’ in this household are quite competitive, so it is always a hoot, when I win! It’s hard for them to handle; but, keeps them on their toes! Ha-ha!
Sweet, little adorable Gabriel! Such a cuddle miracle child of God. Thank you for pic’s, Wendy!
Thinking about you Amy, as Andi goes off to school! I can just imagine how ready she is! I’m so sure her little first day outfit, was all laid out and ready to go! Smile! I remember how hard that day was for me. The “first” of many upcoming “new beginnings!” And, little Luke -he’s sure to miss her presence, also!
Linda, Thank you for posting the list (and, yes – it is a tall glass of tea) to follow! Only by the indwelling Spirit do we remotely have a chance!
Donna, I enjoy your wisdom! Thank you for your posts even when you are so busy! We will miss you when you go out of the country in a couple of months.
Teeny, one more day till you get a NEW pacemaker! Praying for you and Sarah.
Dixie, praying for you, too. Are you on a break now, till the next go around with radiation? Praying that God is your strength when you begin to feel weak.
to be cont.
Michael’s been in my prayers (PTL for his job!) – you, too Jacque! Praying that God guides your every step. And, he is actually helping your hubby and taking some of his load off his shoulders’ –how about that!
Okay, Rhonda, you’re up to something good, I just know it! smile! Just saying, “hi!” smile…
Jodie & Jennifer in Iowa , praying for healing with your pain – may you both be encouraging to each other – as you’ve walked the path and know what each other is experiencing. God is so good to place encourager’s next to us, right when we seem to need it the most!
Today, we are joining together to lift up one of your precious daughter’s, - Stephanie. Thank you, Lord that she is not alone, You are right there with her at this very moment. You knew all along that she would have a c-section, so this comes as no surprise to You. You know what her needs are. Thank you for her strong husband, Jason. Thank you for her encouraging friend’s that are there for her. Lord, use this situation to draw Stephanie even closer to you. Be her portion today. Guide her each step. There is nothing more scary than the first few weeks of being a new mom. Lord, place your hands and feet around her through different friends that have walked her shoes. May they surround her with love when she begins to grow weary. May she know that she can’t do this alone. Draw her to give up this heavy burden to you. Lift it up off her shoulders. Pour your love and peace all over her. Give her a dose of security and a soft blanket of confidence. May she feel you as you wrap your loving arms around her. Let her not fret or worry. Let her enjoy these minutes where all she needs to do is hug, cuddle and love on her baby Kailyn. In Your precious name, dear Jesus, we pray, Amen.
Loice, praying for Wanui –when does year 8 begin in your area?
Lyn, praying for that grandson of yours – Dylan!
Lizzy, how are you? How is Johnny doing? God is working, even when we can not see Him.
Rhonda, in NY –sweetie, you are absolutely, 100% right, when you wrote: “wouldn’t the enemy just love it if I stopped reading the Bible?” Indeed, he would, so you just keep on, keep on, keep on, sweetie! The NT is just around the corner! Pour your heart out to the Lord, and He will give you strength to keep on the journey! Smile
To each of you: thank you! And, to all of you, ‘quiet’ ones: thank you, too! What a journey we’re on together – seeking daily, to know Him more through His Word.
Hugs, Lori
Wendy, had to smile at the very beginning- know you are a bit "frazzled" as you said it was April 23rd. Then, you blessed us so richly with the opening prayer and teaching. Thank you.
Today, I again noticed a pattern that has been repeated. "Therefore" and "then". Had to do a little word-nerding. Therefore: because of that, consequently, because of that, to that end, on that ground. Then: at that time.
Action and cause- therefore and then, with the greatest cause "Then they will know I am the Lord" God wants us to know He is Lord and will go to great lengths to show us. He gives us so many chances to know Him (Jer 21:8). to add a list: what is my "therefore" and God's "then"?
SAP for the many needs and blessings. Love all of you.
Gaylene
Morning, ya'll. Each morning I say that I am not going to post today. No time, and then here I am.
My take of the messages to the surrounding nations. "Just in case you are gloating that your enemy, Judah and Israel, is being taken into captivity, this is going to happen to you too. So don't gloat."
Karen and Amy, I really enjoyed your messages today. thanks for your sharing.
Lori, your memory is something else, how you keep up with everyone - WOW. My trip to Turkey fell through. God had not given me any pease about it from the beginning, so it is God's will. And just like God, it is really not for me to know why, I can only surmise.
Having lost a mate, and knowing how long my grief lasted, Ezekiel's loss was more than I an imagine. But God must have done marvaleous things so Ezekiel could do that. I am really so moved for these prophets and wonder about the measure of God's grace so they could do this. We get tired of ready it, but I cannot imagine how tired they got of saying it, and they really were compelled to do it. Won't it be wonderful to read of our Savior after reading all this doom and gloom. And to not have lived during these times.
We all must be aware of the Evil one wanting to destroy this group. Loving one another, with no judgements. Wendy does a great job of leading. Remember to pray for the group and especially Wendy. The devil would like nothing better than to scatter us.
I am going to quote the end of Lori's post this morning, just to emphasize it. "To each of you:thank you!. And, to all of you 'quiet ones" thank you too. What a journey we're on together - seeking daily, to know Him more through His Word." Right on Lori. This group is so much bigger than we can imagine, around the world. Thank you Lord, for all you give us.
Donna - TX
Sweet Donna, I take notes, honey! At my age, my mind is, well, let's just say, it's not where it used to be! haha! I have a prayer notebook, and ya'll are all in it!
As, I walked this morning I was over-come with the mere fact that our God is Sovereign! It’s like it hit me for the very first time! He is our true El Elyon, “Most High,” Our God MOST HIGH! Ruler of all of the Universe! Ruler of all of the supreme beings! His kingdom has endured from generation to generation, yes- a peculiar bunch, a smallish clan, that wakes up each morning, seeking to know Him more. He will do with us today, according to His Own (perfect) will. None of us can say, “why, this, Lord?” We need to trust in Him alone. He is in control of all the little details that come our way, TODAY.
Your teaching, Wendy was on my mind. Just a heaviness for things that are happening in our lives today. As I walked, I had Ezekiel on my mind, wondering how he was able to endure and do what God asked of him. He KNEW GOD, more than I do right now, - that is what it comes right down to! It is no different today –as events continue to hit us out of the blue. Things we did not plan on, or care to deal with. But. God remains Sovereign. Yes, he had a reason for what he did to the precious wife of Ezekiel. He has His perfect reasons for all of the ‘why’s’ going on today –with each one of us! LORD, I WANT TO KNOW YOU MORE.
Thank you dear Father, that we are apart of your chosen remnant that will live with You for ever! Everything that happens to us is according to Your will for us. We give you our hearts – do with us, according to Your own good pleasure. You are all-knowing, full of understanding, wisdom, and power! We set today, knowing full well, that everything that happens is your will for us. You know how many days already that we will live here on Earth. Every situation is under your control. Knowing that You are Sovereign, gives us the ability to rejoice in all circumstances that come our way today, allows us to say, ‘thank you,’ for all things, & allows us to be filled with your Holy Spirit. Nothing, nothing, will happen today in each one of our lives, unless you give it permission to happen! You have a purpose for each one of us. Thank you for manifesting Yourself through us. Thank you for the moments sprinkled over the course of our life, that clearly show us you are with us. Thank you that we are not alone in this life. You are with us every minute. In your precious name we pray, Amen.
Precious hugs to each of you, especially those of you who are traveling along a bumpy road, right now. keep your feet - surefooted. You are not alone. God is with you.
Hugs, Lori
Gaylene, I'm just reading your post as I get ready to take off and realized I DID NOT EVEN hear Wendy say, April! ha-ha, show's how frazzled, I must be! Yikes, help me, Lord!
Today, is a new day, another day we are given to KNOW HIM MORE!...anticipate this, girls!
Lori
Good morning, GIGs,
Right now I'm kind of identifying with our "quiet ones". I'm reading, struggling with nuggets, thinking about our reading but having trouble putting my thoughts into words. But then I come on here and read wonderful, eloquent posts by Karen, Amy, Lori, Linda and others and, - well, I'm just very grateful to you all for being enlightening, and "glue" for this group, just like our Wendy is each day.
Wendy, thank you for the wonderful, moving prayer you prayed over us this morning. It just plain felt very good and I, for one, would love to hear more of your sweet praying.
Like many of you, I am struggling with the OT doom and gloom and am so looking forward to the NT and being bathed in the words of Jesus Christ.
My nugget today was Ezekiel 29:3
"Give them [Pharaoh and the people of Egypt] this message from the Sovereign Lord. 'I am your enemy, O Pharaoh, king of Egypt - you great monster, lurking in the streams of the Nile. For you have said,'The Nile River is mine; I made it for myself.'"
My to do: This passage convicts me. I truly am grateful to and have been acknowledging in my prayers and conversations with God His extreme and pervasive grace in my life, as He is my Source and Resource for everything. However, I have been timid with my family and others in voicing this. When I do thank God out loud, my family's remarks indicate to me that they think this "takes away from" them and their efforts. Like Pharaoh, they seem to think that they "made the Nile River for themselves." And, oh, didn't I used to think the same way. Forgive me, Lord! I tried to explain to my husband that blessings are a combination of my husband's very hard work and the grace of God. My husband is up for a promotion at work, and I am looking for some way to use this to bring my husband "around", but I haven't yet found a way to do this. My family and I are, indeed, too prideful. Lord, please help me find a way to humble us all, before we suffer the same fate as Israel!
Peace and Gratitude,
Michelle in New England
Donna, I inadvertently left you off my list of thanks to wonderful poster. You are definitely one, dear Sister. Again today, your words echoed my own feelings. I hope you will find some peace about the Turkey trip. Have faith that it is truly His will. I read an acrostic recently for faith - I do love me a good acrostic - and this one was:
Forsaking
All
I
Trust
Him
Wish I'd written that one, ha ha ha! Know, Donna, that He has your best interests at heart.
Lori, how is little Radar doing today? PTL your son got safely home in the rain the other night. I am so glad you started our childrens' prayer list, Lori. I do feel our children are all being better protected now. Chuck and I were out yesterday, in a slight rain, and missed by just a few minutes a multiple car pile up at a red light. Someone being just plain careless piled into those innocently and obediently waiting at the light. When I told my husband (a police sgt.) he said one word -- "texting"!
Friends, I humbly request your prayers for Ryan, who begins chemotherapy today for his cancerous lymph nodes. It will run through Thanksgiving. Also, for my sister Denise's husband and caregiver extraordinaire, Jim, who will have two procedures, this week and in two weeks, to remove cancerous growths on his skin.
Rhonda, I would like to add your husband to my "health concerns" prayer list for his skin cancer and gallbladder. May I have his name, please?
I'm feeling that "end of summer" feeling as we in this household gear up for back-to-school. I have luxuriated this summer in ample prayer and reading time, and I need a plan to do my best at this when school resumes. I'm so glad I have all of you for encouragement. And I will end with an acrostic that I composed this weekend. I was inspired after listening to a Joyce Meyer's sermon on the importance of our words. We will bring more peace to ourselves, to our families, and to our corner of the world if we will do this--
Praise
Excellence
Always,
Comfort and
Encourage
So, let's all 4:8 it today!
Michelle in New England
Good morning to all. Well, this will be mt 1st time commenting on a passage. So, I will do something new & something to take away. Something new: in Ezekiel 29:16, it shows how Israel will no longer be able to put their trust in Egypt, that they will have to put their trust in God. Aren't we like that at times. Sometimes we put our trust into things like people, material things, etc, instead of putting our complete
trust in God. God already has our life written out for us. Something to do: Lord, today and everyday, I ask that you help me put my whole trust into you and not into things or circumstances around me. I ask that I can truly depend on you. Thank you Father for your forgiveness, your mercy, and your love. In Jesus name, Amen. Gina
Michelle:
My husband's name is Jim. Prayer is much appreciated.
Rhonda in NY state
Hay yall. Woohoo!!!! I'm at Bald Head Island in N.C. and sitting out on the balcony. I have internet service. I also have cell phone service. Eight years ago when I came here we were in a different house and I didn't have cell service so they must have put a tower somewhere. My dad just said we came here to get away from all this technology. He used a different word but it's not Christian like and I forgot the word he used as fast as he said it. We have a two story house and the second floor is where the kitchen and living room is. It is on the front of the house and the balcony is also on the front of the house. This morning I came outside at 8:30 to do my Bible reading and I thought of you all who talk about spending time with God outside in the morning. Wendy I thought about you. Yesterday was a depressing day for me but today is going much better.
I'm about to look at the vlog. I can keep up with the vlogs.
Jen Ren, the house you're in sounds like the one we had on the Outer Banks of NC. We had three decks and really enjoyed them morning, noon and night. Enjoy the breeze, and the birdsong!
Michelle in Rainy (but we really need it)New England
Sweet twin, from one dog lover to another! Thank you for asking about my 3rd child, (haha) Radar!
Actually, I just got an update from his precious vet, Dr. Noey (his office is in a Ark shaped building) -which drew us right in!
Radar is doing fine and dandy, and is just about getting back into his long walk again, PTL! The cone was out the door at this household! We just could not put him through that, so we just take turns keeping an eye on him. it's been great-i've had to slow down and read more! (smile!) His incisions already look healed, but we're still keeping an eye on him!
But, unfortunately, the Sarcoma noted in the lab has turned out to be possibly more rare in its kind, and may be aggressive in nature. An additional staining is being done, and I was told this morning it will take approx. one more week to find out the details as to how to treat.
A dear friend told me: "Now, your job is to snuggle and love on Radar. I will be praying for him today and praying for the pathologist who will make the final determination as to the type of Sarcoma and the staging of the cells." This is my prayer,too! And, the snuggling and loving is the fun part!
Love & Hugs, Lori
PS Forsaking All I Trust in Him.
Love, that!!!!!
Lori, I just picked up my pen and did a first - added a pet to my "health concerns" prayer list. No wait, I guess I should put him on the "childrens' list". Hmmmm, I'll just put him on both [smile]...okay, I've got him on there right next to Colton and Connor. I'll be praying on both those lists in a little while.
Speaking of pets, Jacque, how is little Chip doing? And are they any closer to hiring a new doctor at your work?
Cindy in PA, has Jeff started teaching yet? I honestly think I am more nervous about my son's new teaching job (he starts next Monday) than he is. I told Chuck today he'd better marry a Type A to balance out his laid-backness, ha ha ha!
I know the Bible tells us "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6) But a half-century of a bad habit is hard to break. I still do get anxious and fretful. BUT, God has instructed my as to how to deal with that - PRAY - and that is what I now do. I may still be sleepless, but at least I'm a calmer sleepless!!
Praying for all intentions,
Michelle in New England
Lori,
Thank you for sharing Elle Elle's (Liz) from last year. She was "my" twin and I miss her posts daily.
Continuing to pray for Radar. And your dear friend is very wise in her advice.
Praise God for His protection on your son during the rain. God's angels are busy, busy, busy with our kids.
Jennifer Renee,
You sound like you are having a great time over there. Yay! for internet access.
Rhonda in NY,
Prayed for your request re Jim over the weekend. May God heal him completely before he goes to work.
Stephanie in TX,
I pray that you are getting some relief from those baby blues. I had them too with my first one. The lack of sleep, the frustration with latching and seeing this baby and realizing I am responsible for him from that point on - it was overwhelming. It produced a very teary Mom - it only took a lullaby to get the tears going. Inspite of my inexperience as a Mom, by God's grace my older son is now 19 years old. And probably sleeping as I type this. :) So, take heart, you will get through this too.
I enjoyed reading all the insights you shared. It was a difficult read for me today. Like everyone else, I had trouble imagining what Ezekiel went through when his wife was suddenly taken from him. He wasn't even allowed to mourn. Here I am years removed from my Mom's death and I still mourn for her. What I took from this passage was Ezekiel was so in tune with God and trusted Him 100% to be able to show that kind of obedience. Honestly, I don't know if I have what it takes to go through that.
Coming home from work today I was thinking about all of you and the family/friends who suffer from pain in body or heart, and I just want to lift you all up in prayer for strength, comfort and peace.
Dear Lord, You only want good for us. Please hold in Your hand and in Your heart all our friends, Denise and husband Jim, Ryan, Rhonda’s husband Jim, Linda-Jewels, Susie Kelly and Ryan, Allie and Ryan, Tina and Baby Claire, Kristen and Rebecca, Mary from SW OH and family, Brandee and Will, Kate and Fred, Morgan and co-worker Jim, Jessica, Wendy and her husband, Jen Ren, Betty, Jennifer Iowa, Mary, Dixie, baby Gabriel, Angela, Stephanie and Kaitlyn, Teeny and the medical team preparing for her procedure tomorrow, and her daughter Sarah, all mothers/grandmothers who are awaiting new life, and so many more of us needing Your healing touch. Help us to be obedient in our suffering and to focus on Your love and plan in our lives. Give us the strength to fulfill Your will. Amen
I was shocked by what was required by Ezekiel-- to have his treasure taken, and to not be able to mourn. He and his wife were predestined to be a sobering example to all nations and to all generations (including me) that the things and the relationships of this world are only temporary. We can appreciate the gifts we are given every day, but must always allow God to be our first attachment because He is the only thing that will endure. Every day we can love up the people (and pups, Lori!) around us, but we have no guarantee that they will be there for us tomorrow. It is so hard as a wife and mother to try to detach, but this is the ultimate requirement of our God-- to love Him first and foremost. Our ultimate and eternal relationship is with Him.
Blessings and prayers,
Jacque
PS. I thought it was hard being a principal's wife, but I'm sure glad I didn't marry a prophet-- LOL!
Jacque, thanks very much for lifting up Jim and Denise, and Ryan, along with so many others here in need.
Teeny, prayers for you tonight as you prepare for tomorrow's "renewing of your heart" via a new pacemaker. Lord, please wrap Teeny in a blanket of peace and positive thoughts, pave the wave for all to go smoothly tomorrow, and bless her children for helping her through her current health challenges, in Jesus'name, Amen!
G&P, when does Carlo go back to college and Paolo to fifth grade?
Morgen, my, you have been busy. Two settled back in to college last week, and gown shopping this week. You're right behind me in a lot of life's big, emotional transition for a mom. Hang on!!
Amy, has Andi started K yet? I've been praying an extra prayer for her that she will be a good influence on her K classmates [smile].
'Nite all. "See" you in the morning.
Michelle in New England
Hello All,
I have been swamped trying to ready my house to sell - a scary thought for this single mom, but I am forging ahead. I have been "mostly" keeping up with reading, but not allowing a few missed days to start a trend of missing them all. I am back on track for right now.
I wanted to post an update on sweet Rebecca. After much prayer, research, etc., the doctors advised that Rebecca undergo a risky procedure. There was no definitive answers for what the cause of her pancreatitis is/was, and now her liver was beginning to also feel the impact.
This morning, she had an ECRP - some type of scope down her throat. They went in to visualize and found a stricture in the pancreas. This is a narrowing that was preventing all the bad stuff from going out. They put a stent in. The doctors said if she had not had this procedure - she never would have gotten better. This is a HUGE blessing for Brian and Christyn as now they have some answers. They also found some other minor issues, but hopefully she will feel a prompt relief of much of her pain and symptoms. It will be a long road to reintroduce foods and to wean her off of the pain medications; however, this is an answer to prayer and hopefully a medical answer too. I thank you all so much for keeping this family lifted up. I ask that you continue to pray for them so they can determine further treatment for the other issues, and for the direction to go now that some answers have been found. Thank you.
You all a true blessing and I am truly grateful for the following.
Hi ladies,
I have been surfing through the comments over the past couple of days. Stephanie - if you are reading this...my heart is reaching out to you today. Almost a year ago my baby Elliot was born and I was crying out on this blog for support. I was struggling so hard with breastfeeding and I felt like such a complete failure as a mom. I thought "why would God give me this precious gift when I am sooo not up to the task?" I was exhausted, stiff as a board (my neck totally locked up from stress) crying and totally overwhelmed.
BUT guess what - like others have said, God hand-picked me and my husband to be Elliot's parents. God will help you to parent this beautiful child.
I ended up using both formula and breastfeeding. Don't you worry - your baby knows who her momma is and how much she is loved. You are still the one getting up with her, kissing her, rocking her, changing her, feeding her. Breastfeeding does not make you a mother. God made you a mother the day you conceived little Kaitlyn. You are already "bonded"
Dear Lord - I lift up our sister Stephanie. Let Your love and compassion for this new momma fill her heart to overflow. Break off any feelings of depression and anxiety in the name of your son Jesus. Let her rest in your arms Father God and give her peace. Help her to know that You are the perfect parent and You will guide her footsteps.
Stephanie if you ever want to talk to someone who's been there recently - email me at jdegonza@hotmail.com
Love, Jodie from Ottawa
BTW baby Elliot turns one this September - it does get better. Hang in there sweetie :)
Jodie, Lori,Grace and Peace,and others...
Thank you so much for your love and encouragement to Stephanie. I am copying your prayers and sending them to Jason. He appreciates them greatly and says each day is getting a little better.
Love and prayers for you all,
Lyn in Texas
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