March 24, 2014 - "I'm Available"

Good morning and welcome to a new week. I am grateful we are now officially into the spring season - PRAISE God. I look forward to having those evening of grilling and eating on the deck before the flies and mosquitos realize my BBQ season has begun. Hopefully the bitter cold sent a few of those guys to heaven early. (wink) Don't forget LIfe Group on April 6th. Hope you can come! Easter-related foods and Freedom Connection lesson #4. All are welcome. Let's continue to encourage each other to be healthy and walk in freedom regardless of the fight. Amen? Reading this morning in 1 Samuel 3 a very familiar story, but a new truth jumped out at me. You know the story of Eli's wicked sons who had no regard for the Lord. They were totally disobedient and God was no longer going to tolerate them. Chapter 3 begins with "the boy Samuel ministered before the Lord under Eli." This reminds us that we can be young in the Lord and be used mightily if we are open and available. Eli slept in the usual spot - common and predictable. However, Samuel slept in the temple where the Ark of the covenant was. This symbolized the presence of God. That really jumped out at me this morning. Samuel ministered during the day in the Temple and then chose to sleep in the Temple too. "I'm available day or night," says the young Samuel. Also, when God called to Samuel in the night, the boy assumed Eli needed him and he RAN to answer the call even though all were sleeping. Again, this jumped out at me that the young Samuel was running to the priest and didn't display an attitude and ask, "couldn't this wait until morning? I'm off the clock!" His willingness and attitude of obedience really spoke to me again today. Finally, when Eli connected Samuel to the Lord, the boy repeated EXACTLY what Eli instructed him to say. There is something about pure obedience that motivates God to speak to us and trust us with valuable information of things to come. In fact the Bible records that the Lord actually came and stood in Samuel's presence. WOW! And the Lord's response: "See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears of it tingle." After their conversation, Samuel laid down near the Ark again and waited until morning to open the doors and disclose the events that comprised his night. Can you imagine having God visit and share so tangibly in the night? Fabulous. Let's be honest, God does visit and share each day as we read His Word and speak with Him. Jesus' death tore the wall of separation and gave us access to our Father, God, as often as we choose. That's so cool to me! I pray you see something about instant obedience this morning in this story. I did. Let's chat again tomorrow? PK

March 21, 2014 - "The Song of the Bird"

I love waking up to the sunshine and cool temps. For a while, I was wondering if I lived in the NW with the cloudy skies? Remember, Life Group is April 6th at 6PM at my house. Let me know if you're planning to attend so I can plan accordingly. Yesterday as I left for work, I must confess I had a heavy heart. While unlocking the car my attention was diverted for a few seconds and I listened as the spring birds were singing so effortlessly. I tried to remember if I ever hear them sing during the winter, but I am not certain I do. However yesterday, the Lord specifically brought me to their song. I was reminded that intrinsically they are created to be totally dependent on the Lord for their provisions. Yes, they search for food and build nests, but they don't toil as we toil. Toiling is defined as working extremely hard or incessantly - exhausting physical labor. Now before we all jump up and declare, "none of us are supposed to toil," I get that. But let's be honest, we are human and at times we toil. Part of that toiling comes to us through Adam's disobedience, doesn't it? And yes, we have been redeemed from the curse of toiling, but sometimes we may find ourselves wandering into a place where we are functioning beyond our rest that God promises. Maybe that's just me? As I woke up to their songs again this morning, the Spirit of the Lord reminded me of a few verses that I'd like to share and a picture. Perhaps this will help some of you add some balance in a busy and overwhelming season of life. :) Matthew 6:25-27 Do Not Worry 25"For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26"Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? 27"And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?… Luke 12:24 Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Psalm 104:27-28 All creatures look to you to give them their food at the proper time. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are satisfied with good things. Look again at Luke. How much more valuable to the Lord are each of us? Life has its issues, but one of my pastors taught me to assign each issue a number and make them line up during the day. Check them off one by one. Sometimes we need to be reminded that those things we do each day do not define us and they are not allowed to drain our virtue. This morning I saw a picture of a one of those game boards where a head pops out and a mallet is used to smash it back into its hole. Let's do that to those things popping up that are trying to cause to toil or worry. The song of the birds reminded me that they toil for nothing. I choose to sing like a bird - how about you? Have a great one! PK

March 20, 2014 - "Removing the Leaves"

What a beautiful day is in store for us all. It's days like these where I wish the world would stop...momentarily. Do you ever feel like that? The warm sun, the expressive birds singing their spring songs, and the color of green reminds me that new life is abundantly pushing forward. After a long, cold winter I long to rake the yard in my shorts and flip flops. Just typing that means I've had a mental breakdown. (wink) I really don't rake the leaves I blow them, but that sounded great and I wanted to get an "amen" from the other leaf blowers. However, I am so ready to work in the yard, get out of the house, and listen to the waterfall as I drink my morning coffee in the swing. Bring it on! As I am planning and strategizing concerning the yard, I am reminded that leaves are everywhere - unless you have no trees - and burning so many is dangerous with all the trees in my yard. Honestly, we always have to form a plan and every year I dread the entire event. I know the leaves have to be removed so that the emerging flowers can get the warmth and space they need, so I do my part to give them a chance but it is a chore. I am reminded, though, that the dead leaves needing to be removed is in sync with those things in our lives that we purpose to conqueror and bring down that can really become clutter if we do not completely remove them. There's a difference in pushing something to the edge of the yard and removing it. PREACH! The Bible speaks of the little foxes that spoil the vine and I think of how one, small leaf is not an issue even if hidden in the yard. However, if I allow those leaves to accumulate they can soon become an issue, can't they? Once my yard is blown clean, bagged and removed, I immediately get the sticks up, re-soil and re-plant, mulch and seed the grass. I take ownership of where the dead leaf was and bring forth life. This is a biblical process that we see in the natural realm in which we live. In my on life, I am constantly evaluating issues in my heart to determine what needs to be pulled down and removed. Once removed, I MUST fill that space with the goodness of God and allow the fruits of the Spirit to grow in its place. I must be careful to not allow that dead issue, a winter leaf, to remain and grab others in its journey. It must come down, be removed, and be destroyed. Then, new life comes to those areas of my heart and life and I enjoy the victorious living that Jesus died to secure. I liken that to sitting in my swing, drinking my coffee, reading my Bible, and meditating on all the wonderful things God has done in my life. Gotta stay on those leaves. Do you have any in your "yard" that need to be removed and burned? Ask the Holy Spirit where the small things are in your life that need some attention. Then, smile as you address them knowing that God plans good things for His children. As we approach Easter, this is a great time to get some things from our yard to the cross. That's my plan. Have a great day! PK

March 19, 2014 - "God's Tower"

Good morning to all and happy Wednesday. Just a reminder that LIfe Group occurs April 6th. Please mark that on your calendar. We will share our Easter Meal ideas. YUM! Today's word will be short, as I have been reading longer than usual. I want us to read 2 Samuel 22:33 together this morning: David's Song of Deliverance …32"For who is God, besides the LORD? And who is a rock, besides our God?33"God is my strong fortress; And He sets the blameless in His way. 34"He makes my feet like hinds' feet, And sets me on my high places.… In this passage David is praising God who has delivered him, AGAIN, and has proven AGAIN that He, God, is faithful. I want to remind you that God's deliverance is not a one time event in the life of His children. Who you do that to your children? I doubt it. I think it's cool that David asks if there is anyone like the LORD - all caps to signify the reverence of God's name - and who is a rock - personification - besides our God. If you take the reverence the Jewish people placed on Yahweh and couple that with a strong rock, you can build a strong fortress upon which we can climb, see far, and stand, which is exactly what God does over and over and over. He builds the fortress and we come inside. YES! None of us can compare with the tower of strength our God offers. Read 33 again, "He sets the blameless in His way." That reminds me we are blameless because of God and even the path is His. God gives us stable back feet like the mountain climbing animals to maneuver to heights we could never imagine. It's a God thing - not a me thing. Today, let's offer a song of praise as we remind our circumstances that our God is strong, mighty, a fortress that we trust and He will give us the strength and agility to climb to places we could never reach in order to see clearly, be secure, and follow in God's ways. Praise Him! PK

March 18, 2014 - "Beating the Air"

I had my daughter, grand daughters and grand puppy over for dinner tonight and as most of you know, I love creating new recipes and playing with food. Today, Teree asked if I would make fish and as I am currently really cutting down on my fat levels, I made some Tilapia in a skillet and it was SOOOO yummy. I'd love to share a non-fat, fish recipe that my grand daughters really loved and there was none left at the end of dinner. It's easy and really tasty. I sprayed a skillet with Pam and put it on 6 (medium), laid my Tilapia fillets down and seasoned with Old Bay seasoning and DILL WEED. (Yes, that was the hit. It was a risk, but it worked) Then I continued to "grill" the fillets until the seasonings made a some-what crust. This means I kept the heat on medium and turned every couple of minutes. Tilapia doesn't take long to cook and there is a balance between "crusting" and drying the fillet. So, be careful. I was honestly hoping the girls wouldn't like it as I was really hungry, but isn't it great when the kids will eat fish that's not fried? :) Let me know if you try it. I would love some feedback. So, as we have coffee this morning let's break down 1 Corinthians 9: 24-27. The Need for Self-Discipline 24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. As I began reading this verse, I could really tap into the Apostle Paul's encouragement - "don't simply get your shoes on and take to the track - if you're gonna do the stuff, run the race to win." (paraphrased of course) I LOVE this! I grew up in a sports family and hours weekly were dedicated to perfecting the sport but not simply as something to pass the time, but to compete to win. I know there's a balance but we were taught to play hard to win - leave nothing on the table - but at the end of the game, regardless, shake hands and know you did your best. I am still wired this way whether choosing foods for my daily health race or making plans to deepen my relational race, I still run each day to win. However, the main focus of the passage is about running the eternal race and securing the prize that lasts forever. There is a plan and a course (a track if you will) that God established and each of us is on the track. Paul is reminding us to make the race count while we're here because the prize for winning is something that lasts for eternity. Winning the eternal race has everything to do with acceptance and obedience. Will we follow God's instructions as he coaches us through our race and obey His commands with integrity? Will we surrender our own plan to His plans daily, deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Him? I, like the Apostle Paul, don't want to live my life and run the race aimlessly. Can you imagine the frustration of a boxer simply beating the air? I would hate that! Let me read God's Word and allow the Coach of Heaven to shape and reshape my life; let me discipline myself to stay the course when "life" has another plan; and let me remain focused - eyes forward - to the prize set before me, which is the Hope of Heaven. Run well today friends and let's have coffee again tomorrow. PK

March 17, 2014 - Bath Time

Good morning and happy St Patrick's Day. I don't think I have much Irish in my blood, but I always love another opportunity for a celebration. :) It's the start of another new week and I don't know about you, but I am still trying to work through the time change. i cannot seem to get to bed before 11:30 (as 10:30 was my previous bedtime) BUT I cannot seem to get up easily as 6am is really 5am. Oh well, by next week I should be able to get this together. I am declaring this is a great week because God is a great God and has plans to do good by me and not harm me. (Isaiah 29:11) How about you? Let's make our lives come in alignment with what God declares about each of us. I know that is critical in our journey. God is able and God is for us! Amen? This morning I want to speak to something that the Lord brought so clearly back to my mind the other day. As I have been running wide open, I found that I was only able to grab a quick shower daily. However, Friday morning I had a window of free time and I was able to really do the routine again: soak with epsom salt, use my oatmeal soap and enjoy the scrubbing. You know, back to the basics. As I was drying, I felt as though a burden was lifted from me. There was a "freeness" in my attitude. As crazy as that seems, I remember my mother always saying, "if the baby is fussy, a nice warm bath will always make them smile." This has been a crazy period for me recently and a nice, long bath really did make me smile. Here's what I felt the Lord showed me: we acquire dirt from our activities daily that require a bath and scrubbing. Getting that yucky stuff off our skin and away from our toes really gives a lift to our spirit. The Lord reminded me that daily we gather "dirt" in the form of life-issues as well (spiritually) and if these are not cleaned up, they can weigh us down just as the natural dirt does. Think about working outside and getting sweaty and extremely dirty. After a shower and a loofa pad, EVERYBODY feels better! Just that one thing adds a lift. After a day of working through life, we need a time of spiritual scrubbing as well - a time each night to "get that dirt where it belongs." (I am a night bath person) Anyway, if you are feeling a bit sluggish spiritually this morning, spend a few minutes in worship and prayer. Spend some time reading God's Word and declaring His truth over your day. Spend some time asking God to wash you "white as snow." (Isaiah 1:18) I promise that long, warm bath was an infusion to my day on Friday (especially the chamomile epsom salt) and I KNOW that "clean-up" time with the Lord is more life-giving that any natural bath. Looking forward to a great week knowing that I can go to the Father hour by hour if needed for another time of cleansing and refreshing. PRAISE GOD! Let's have coffee again tomorrow, PK

March 13, 2014 - Throw Back Thursday (TBT)

Wow, what a chilly moving and for my folks in the NE, hopefully you are all tucked away warmly and with power. Spring is coming soon! Today, I want to share from one of my morning devotionals a few excerpts on integrity. I know each of us have certain qualities that we really admire in people and for me at the top of the list is integrity. I am a huge "trust people" freak and knowing that people are who they are in front of me is critical. I can deal with people's bad issues if they are consistently that way. This allows me to deal with my heart and respond appropriately. It is challenging, however, if I am not certain if someone's character displays the real them. You know that question mark you get in your stomach? And then there are those things in us we wish no one would ever see. Maybe? I thought this was a good analogy this morning: "People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will slip and fall." Proverbs 10:9, NLT Integrity is a high standard of living based on a personal code of morality that doesn't succumb to the whim of the moment or the dictates of the majority. Integrity is to personal character what health is to the body or 20/20 vision is to the eyes. People with integrity have nothing to hide and nothing to fear. Their lives are open books. They say to a watching world, "Go ahead and look. My behavior will match my beliefs. My walk will match my talk. My character will match my confession. Integrity is not reputation--what others think of us. It is not success--what we have accomplished. Integrity embodies the sum total of our being and our actions. It originates in who we are as believers in Jesus Christ--accepted, valued, capable, and forgiven--but it expresses itself in the way we live and behave, no matter whether we are in church on Sunday or at work on Monday or in a lonely hotel room on Tuesday or suffering in a hospital bed on Thursday. I love this! We absolutely know how critical health is to the duration of our body and I feel this same intensity about integrity. I realize I have issues, as you may, and sometimes we may get caught up in the crowd or overreact and some may judge our character in that moment. And for that we repent. For that we are quick to confess and ask forgiveness. But who we are in the dark should be the same 24/7. This morning, let's purpose to check the various opportunities during the day for our character to be observed and be honest with ourselves before the Lord. Do our families see us the same as our co-workers? Do the people at the gym see how we are at home? Are our lives really an open book? Hiding and pretending takes work and never leads to fruitfulness and Godly character. If there are weak areas in our lives, let's use the "Throw Back Thursday" approach. Let's throw them at the feet of the cross, ask God to cleanse us from any attachment to them, and be the real us everywhere we go. First day of spring is next Friday, bring it on! Have a great one, PK

March 12, 2014 - "The Gift Giver"

Perhaps you have read the book, The Five Love Languages. If you have not, I suggest you do. Reading this book was a major turning point in my life as it allowed me to understand how I give and receive love. Until then, I got so frustrated with people who seemed to need some "type of attention" that I evidently didn't comprehend. After digesting this material and reading it several times, I had an "ah-ha" moment. Now, it is one of the first books I suggest to people struggling in their relationships. Today, let's consider one of the languages - gifts. (which happens to be one of mine) James 1:17 says, "Every good present and every perfect gift comes from above, from the Father who made the sun, moon, and stars. The Father doesn't change like the shifting shadows produced by the sun and the moon." Now for those of us who are "gifts" people (you need to take the test to determine your love language), this is really GREAT news. However, if you're not a gift person - this is great news for you as well! God's heart is constantly for us even though at times we struggle or find ourselves with questions. God is the perfect Father and He gives perfect gifts. I wonder what a "perfect" gift would be to you? Isn't it cool to even pause and consider what that would be? And yet, we are told in this passage that good and perfect gifts come from God who doesn't change in the manner in which He loves each of us. Psalm 139 reminds me that God knows every thought in my mind and every word before it proceeds from my mouth and yet, God still loves me and gives good and perfect gifts to this imperfect vessel. WOW! One of the gifts I so appreciate about my heavenly Father is that He allows me to bring my issues and problems to Him for help and guidance. Look at this: Proverbs 16:3 in the Amplified Bible says this... Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will,] and so shall your plans be established and succeed. (AMP) The NIV Bible says that God will establish your plans when you commit all that you do to the Lord. I don't know about you, but "He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will" is such a gift to me. I want my plans to succeed, as do we all, but if my plans are not agreeable with God's plans, then I could be wasting a lot of time. That's not good. Today, let's spend quiet time with God (which was a gift given the moment Jesus died as the separation between mankind and God was opened again) and take our agenda and roll them - comment them - surrender them to God and allow the GIFT of God's help to be received and embraced with a smile. I love perfect gifts - and that is perfect. Have a great one - PK

March 11, 2014 - "Change It!"

As I walked my yard and picked up a few sticks late yesterday afternoon before an event, I was torn between the ugliness of winter coupled with the "never have to water standard" and the beauty of my summer yard and the extra hours of work to prepare and maintain such beauty. The more sticks I gathered, the more the memory of a painful back and hips following the "Yard Project 2013" emerged. In fact, every yard project has a back issue that haunts me. Then I smiled and remembered how I love to sit in the swing beside the waterfall and drink coffee. I remembered how I love walking the yard and examining the brilliance of the flowers and the fragrance of the roses. Somehow the pain seemed to lessen its hold on my memories. Isn't that the way of life? We often remember the pain before we celebrate the beauty. Is being healthy or successful worth the long hours and the sacrifice? Is learning a new trade or moving to a new city worth the cost? Absolutely. For example, being healthy takes consistent focus for me but the alternative places me back within the darkest winter season of my life. The saying goes, "we make time to do the things we want to." This statement is not always correct. For years I wanted to be healthy, get a new job, explore a new life. I wanted to. I believe "want to" has to be coupled with action for change to occur. I am certain there are life-changing things that we consider and ponder, but painful, past experiences can effect our hope of something new or something better. Sometimes, we find ourselves trapped by the "age" card. "I'm really too old to............" Let's remember change can be good regardless of the difficulty or our age, especially if God is directing the shift! If God is asking us to change, He will be consistently present. And guess what...if making a change is on us, He will still be there! That's a win-win situation. Let's not be afraid to try. I feel strongly to encourage you this morning - do something new! Try something different and make those changes you've been "wanting to." Embracing something new often brings a lift to our spirit and overcoming a challenge adds wind to our sail. Change doesn't have to be scary, expensive or difficult. Tip for the day - a gallon of paint is cheap and your entire living room could be different by this evening. Have an amazing Tuesday! PK

March 10, 2014 - "Wake Up, Kathy"

I LOVE that the sunshine is wide awake this morning, but I am a little dragging as the time change got me. I preached yesterday at church and was so afraid I would oversleep, I actually was awake most of Saturday night into Sunday. UGH. I love the sun in the late evening, but losing an hour of sleep is craziness. Anyway... I have been singing a song from the Hillsong United Young and Free album called "Awake." It is especially meaningful as we approach spring and the flowers are also awakening. (but, the yellow stuff is also close to wake up time) I awoke this morning with the phrase "wake-up" on my heart and my prayer this day is actually an encouragement for my soul to simply wake up. How many know that during the winter seasons of our lives (those really tough times) we often have to give ourselves a word of encouragement. We have to remember the goodness of God and praise him in spite of the winter. Today, I am including Psalm 57 (which was written by David as he was hiding from Saul to protect his life). It has my phrase "wake up" wrapped within my declaration that God is ALWAYS worthy of praise. I must be honest though, the spring brings a certain "wake up" like none other. Yesterday I had shorts and flip flops on, a glass of tea and the song from the Young and Free album playing full blast. Smiles abounded. If you need a smile today, sit in the sun for a moment, read the following Psalm and play that tune. I double-dog dare you. (wink) Much love, PK 57 1-3 Be good to me, God—and now! I’ve run to you for dear life. I’m hiding out under your wings until the hurricane blows over. I call out to High God, the God who holds me together. He sends orders from heaven and saves me, he humiliates those who kick me around. God delivers generous love, he makes good on his word. 4 I find myself in a pride of lions who are wild for a taste of human flesh; Their teeth are lances and arrows, their tongues are sharp daggers. 5 Soar high in the skies, O God! Cover the whole earth with your glory! 6 They booby-trapped my path; I thought I was dead and done for. They dug a mantrap to catch me, and fell in headlong themselves. 7-8 I’m ready, God, so ready, ready from head to toe, Ready to sing, ready to raise a tune: “Wake up, soul! Wake up, harp! wake up, lute! Wake up, you sleepyhead sun!” 9-10 I’m thanking you, God, out loud in the streets, singing your praises in town and country. The deeper your love, the higher it goes; every cloud is a flag to your faithfulness. 11 Soar high in the skies, O God! Cover the whole earth with your glory!

March 7, 2014 - "Dancing In The Rain"

Yea - we made it through the week and hopefully you have smiled a lot and found reason to celebrate. I believe there are opportunities for joy daily if we will find them and step over our circumstances. Even yesterday I walked between the buildings at church and as the rain was falling I could have made a face about a cold rain and no umbrella. Instead, I could smell the "earth" within the shower and smiled as I was reminded this was a spring rain regardless of the temp. Sometimes we need to allow the seeds of joy that are planted deep within to find the smallest things to celebrate and choose to make them big. One of my favorite sayings is "Those who only think happiness occurs in the sunshine have never danced in the RAIN." Preach that! Can you use that today? I offer this as another seed of joy to bring a smile into your weekend plans: Isaiah 61:10-11 (NIV) 1 "I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign Lord will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations." If we find few things to smile about, can we rejoice that God has clothed us with salvation and is preparing an eternal home for each of us? Can you read that statement and not smile? I can't. I love building houses and decorating, but I would imagine the mansion God is preparing for His kids is incomparable. That thought waters those seeds of joy to produce praise in our lives. We are here on earth but for a season. I chose this day to refocus my thoughts and laser them on my eternal future. My issues today will be made to take a number and line up behind the joy that looking forward to eternity brings. How about you? I did find a fun fact (listed below as your party favor) about apple seeds that I never realized. I am not an apple seed eater, chewer, or swallower, but I do love learning something new daily and I never knew that apples, cherries, peaches, and almonds are members of the rose family. Praying your weekend is filled with "dancing in the rain" moments. PK Question: Do Apple Seeds Contain Poison? Apples, along with cherries, peaches and almonds, are members of the rose family. The seeds of apples and these other fruits contain natural chemicals that are toxic to some animals. Are they poisonous to humans? Here's a look at the toxicity of apple seeds. Answer: Apple seeds do contain a small amount of cyanide, which is a lethal poison, but you are protected from the toxin by the hard seed coating. If you eat whole apple seeds, they pass through your digestive system relatively untouched. If you chew the seeds thoroughly, you will be exposed to the chemicals inside the seeds, but the dose of toxins in an apple is small enough that your body can easily detoxify it. Reference: Juniper BE, Mabberley DJ (2006). The Story of the Apple. Timber Press. p. 20. ISBN 0881927848.

March 6, 2014 - "The Doughnut Door"

Hello and good morning, Don't forget we go to Daylight Savings Time THIS weekend. Spring those clocks forward and forget that extra hour of sleep. That means head to bed early on Saturday night. :) I know as spring is fast approaching and the clothes we wear are getting less and less, sometimes we have a reality confrontation with our self-image that perhaps isn't kind. Throwing something at the mirror or replacing your scale doesn't work - I tried that. Some of us may even want to quit caring all together about what we eat, as I did so many times. Remember this: positive thoughts are empowering and a negative attitude can set processes in motion that make living a healthy life-style difficult, if not impossible. Slamming yourself every time you eat the wrong foods, constantly focusing on what you cannot eat and approaching your exercise plan with dread are all ways that negative thought patterns can sabotage your best efforts to gain and maintain health. When you hold a negative image of yourself, you rob yourself of much-needed energy. (I LIVED right there!) When feeling powerless, depressed or unmotivated, it's easy to cheat on your daily routine by eating a bag of potato chips to feel better. (I always chose pizza or brownies) However, tuning into how you feel, acknowledging those feelings and transforming those thoughts into something more positive can actually help you to achieve your weight loss goals faster. Instead of eating the candy bar or the chips (depending on if you are a sweet or salty person) take the time to REALLY determine the "why" of negativity. What is hurting you so deeply that 1 - you cover your pain with food and 2 - you think so poorly of yourself? I found that often failure, comparison, and fear were my biggest springtime issues. No sweater could hide that. Then the issue of shame would appear and try to cloak even the smallest forward progress. We are ALL going to have a bad day here or there, but accepting failure and allowing food to win only cheats our families of our quality time with them. I am not necessarily taking about in death. When I was heavy, depressed and shaming myself, while in the same breath comforting myself with candy, I was not kind to my family. I never wanted to attend outside activities because I had nothing to wear, which was a lie. There were clothes that fit me, but they exposed my weakness and made me feel like an overweight, undisciplined person. It was horrible! PLEASE don't be trapped by that...see yourself as beautiful no matter what you weigh. But continue to fight for your health and goal weight. The spring season represents new life and an overcoming of dormancy. I say let's choose health and close all doors to the winter seasons of our unhealthiness. Feeling regret over eating the doughnut is not a bad thing if you can turn that around to make it positive. Talk to your accountability partner, go for a walk, or drink more water the following day. Feeling shame when you eat the doughnut and turning to embrace failure - NOT good. That path leads to negative self images and a continued pattern of failure that's hard to break. Perhaps you close and bolt the doughnut door forever and never look back. That's my vote! Plan your healthy day and tell yourself you are fabulous, loved, highly favored, and blessed to the ends of the earth! Eat your apple and smile, "hum, this tastes just like a doughnut." (wink) Your internal organs will thank you. We got this! PK

March 5 - "Which Seed?"

I have been thinking a lot about seeds this morning. In fact I woke up with that word on my heart and lips. Perhaps it's because it is time to start our Yard Project 2014 (if you have followed my blogs, you know what this is) and I have been evaluating what needs to be uprooted and what needs to be planted. Seeds are critical to the cycle of life aren't they? My husband will carefully gather seeds and seed packets and then allow them to germinate in a secure and controlled environment to assure that life is given the best opportunity for survival. He nurtures and watches over the seedlings and then once placed in the ground, he is confident in the seeds planted. Now imagine what would happen if the squash seeds produced apples? We would all be disappointed and totally confused. Squash seeds carry the LIFE of the squash within and they should produce squash - not apples. Yes? Isn't that the expectation? The seed itself is closed and nothing visual is offered to assure us that squash will emerge (except on the package), but experience tells us that the seed from the package with a squash on the cover, will produce squash. And I think that is a reasonable expectation. This same principle applies to our lives by the Spirit of God. Sometimes people reason that because someone attends church or calls themselves a believer, a particular life and response to life will be evident. This is not always the case. Is it? But, it should be. Those who are born of the Spirit of God (through salvation) should bear fruit that indicates what was contained in the seed of the Spirit. 1 Peter 1:23 (AMP) says, "You have been regenerated (born again), not from a mortal origin (seed, sperm), but from one that is immortal by the ever living and lasting Word of God." Our first birth (natural) came through the perishable seed of a mortal, but our salvation birth (Spirit) came through accepting the seed of Jesus into our heart (immortal) and those should produce the evidence (fruit) of life in the Spirit. They should. This Spirit birth is available to all who will call upon Jesus as their Lord and Savior - easy. (Romans 10:9) But once the seed of that truth is implanted, we then must live our lives in such a manner as to demonstrate that the "squash seed planted will produce squash." If we confess that we are believers and our lives display something totally different than God declares in His Word, then others may question if we are bearing the fruit of Jesus. Does my life declare Jesus? I pray that it does, but I am quite confident that there are moments where it doesn't. Here's a simple test: 1 John 3:9-10 (MSG) "People conceived and brought into life by God don’t make a practice of sin. How could they? God’s seed is deep within them, making them who they are. It’s not in the nature of the God-begotten to practice and parade sin. Here’s how you tell the difference between God’s children and the Devil’s children: The one who won’t practice righteous ways isn’t from God, nor is the one who won’t love brother or sister. A simple test." Hoping your Wednesday is a great day filled with multiple opportunities to display the SEED within you. Me too. Talk tomorrow - PK

March 4, 2014 - "My Task List"

Yesterday we spoke of our bucket list and I hope you had a minute to think through some things remaining in your journey that you purpose to accomplish before you "kick the bucket." I do want to encourage you though, don't use your busyness as an excuse to start living and enjoying life. I told my pastor recently that I didn't want to be 80 and have regrets - "I want to try some things while I am still running full throttle." It's okay to dream - but it's REALLY okay to START the dream. If going to Austria is on your bucket list, do you have a savings account? Have you started researching tours? Let's move beyond fantasizing and put some unction into that dream. I had to laugh yesterday, as I thought of chocolate covered crickets on someone's bucket list. For me, there would never be ANY unction to that. Today, let's talk about our task list. You know that list that we either create on paper or in our mind of things we need to complete before the day ends. That list that keeps us focused when all the day's activities scream for our attention. Or at my age, that list that reminds me of things and people who need my attention. (senior joke - wink) You know that list, right? I create mine on my IPhone, some use a notebook and some on a calendar hanging on the back of the closet door. That list. So let's think about what a task really is: Task Task may refer to: Task (project management), an activity that needs to be accomplished within a defined period of time or by a deadline Task (computing), a program execution context TASK party, a series of improvisational participatory art-related events organized by artist Oliver Herring Task (language instruction) refers to a certain type of activity used in language instruction The TASK family of potassium ion channels I grabbed these from the dictionary, but am reminded that tasks come in varieties of shapes and forms. However, the common thread that runs through all tasks is usually that they be accomplished and completed within a certain pocket of time. I tell you, when my task list is completed and scratched off (deleted from my phone) I am one happy person. To me, there is a sense of pride that I completed my assignments. I know some people are determined to never live within a task list - but I prefer it. Just me. :) While my daily task list is important, the greatest task of my life that I diligently seek to accomplish is found in the Bible in the book of Acts: Acts 20:24 New International Version (NIV) 24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Today, as we work through our task list, let's remember that we have been given an eternal task list by our Lord and Savior and it should be the task that consumes the majority of our focus. As I re-read this again today I was reminded that my life should be centered on telling others the GOOD NEWS. As stated above - I LOVE completing the task list. So the task assigned to me by Jesus should be my top priority. Is it? Does that task find its way to my daily list? How about you? Today as we move through the things on our list, let's add Acts 20:24 to the top and share the Good News everywhere we go. Tonight, we'll check the list with a sense of accomplishment knowing we completed both our earthly and heavenly assignments. Have a great one! PK

March 3, 2014 - "My Bucket List"

Good afternoon to all and happy beginning of a new month. Life group was so yummy last night! Our next one is the 1st Sunday of April and we will be doing foods to help us prepare for Easter and be awesomely healthy. Hope you can join us and bring a friend. :) Sorry this was late - busy morning! Today let's talk about something we all have, a Bucket List. Perhaps you don't call it by that term, but all of us have things we would like to see accomplished or places we dream of visiting before we "kick the bucket." Yes? I know I do. I have always dreamed of spending several days in a cottage in the mountains with 2 feet of snow outside, a roaring fireplace, a hot cup of coffee, a great book and a blanket. Can somebody say, "amen?" I have always wanted to take a cruise ship to Alaska and then Greece. I have always wanted to see the Great Barrier Reef as well as tour the complex where the Sound of Music was filmed in Austria. I guess that's a lot more than learning to roller skate or eating 12 hotdogs at one time. I would pick things that were very expensive. Do you have an expensive list as well? :) As much as we have a list of "must dos" before we leave this earth, the greatest DAILY "DO" on my list flows from Psalm 19:14: "May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." (NIV) I love the way this translation reads "these words," not just random words or past words - but THESE WORDS right now - coming from MY MOUTH. How many of you know that sometimes we can excuse our thoughts as long as we don't speak them? But David links words from our mouth and thoughts that we meditate on...no escaping right? Psalm 139 reminds us that God knows every thought before it proceeds from our mouth; so again, there's no hiding. But realization that NO WORD OR DEED is hidden from God helps to keep my life in check. The difficult thing about words and thoughts is often they are connected with actions. Sometimes our words are so destructive that they hurt others and our thoughts more destructive and horribly ugly to our own soul and peace. Not good! Thank God for the help of the Holy Spirit. Right? I don't know about you, but I am grateful to hear Kind David, a man after God's own heart, pray such a prayer. This is the cry of my heart. So as I consider the journey before me and my "bucket list," the top of the list remains my daily attitude toward God, others, and myself. Talk tomorrow, PK

January 28, 2014 - "Living in My Praise"

Leaving this morning to go and see my husband in NC, so our chat today will be short. Thanks to those who have informed me that you're coming Sunday. Gonna be a GREAT Healthy4U! Life Group. See ya at 6. Today let's allow the scripture to confess the truth of our heart. As we prepare for the weekend, let's remember all that God is to each of us. I can NEVER recall a time when he "jumped ship" during my rough storms. Just the opposite. Listen as David proclaims the same thing and then take a moment and ponder on the faithfulness of God in your own life and present circumstances. Hope to see you Sunday evening! PK Psalm 34:1-7 1 I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. 2 I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are helpless take heart. 3 Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together. 4 I prayed to theLord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears. 5 Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces. 6 In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened; he saved me from all my troubles. 7 For the angel of the Lord is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him.

February 27, 2014 - "The Value of Pruning - PT. 1"

I am sorry about yesterday, I was semi "out to lunch" from a 3 day conference and decided to go AWOL. :) Feeling better this morning and wanna talk about a first time experience for me - pruning. Perhaps there are "master gardeners" among you, but I am not that. My husband usually tends to the yard maintenance (he LOVES it) and I simply drink UNSWEETENED, mint tea and enjoy the beauty. However, due to his work situation, he is unable to fulfill that portion of the marriage contract - well, at least in this season. (wink) So I decided that pruning couldn't be that tough a feat. Right? My husband said, "watch a few youtube videos and read a few articles and you'll get it." That is SO not how I learn, but I had no options. After a couple of days, I was more confident that I could accomplish the task and was determined to see my rose bushes healthy. I did know enough about pruning to understand that it makes plants healthier and more productive and beautiful roses make me smile every time! As I began to prune, the picture and reason God was allowing me to embrace this experience emerged. One of my main goals as a Christian is to be healthy and productive for the Kingdom of God. Even in my natural realm, I feel strongly about sending things to "heaven" that have lost their effectiveness and are simply in the clutter stage. Taking up space and needing attention is not an option. God feels strongly about this as well as evidenced in John 15:1-4, which reads: 1“I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. 2He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. 3You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. 4Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me." Okay, so why prune? Sometimes branches die and must be cut away. The plant may be "leggy" — spindly and weak. Pruning a plant like this corrects its growth, causing it to put out new shoots in other places, and ultimately strengthens it. The gardener may find disease or insects. Pruning removes the infestation, keeping it from spreading to the rest of the plant. With some plants early growth must be cut back several times for the maximum number of flowers to appear. To keep arms from crossing the center and not following their designed path of flowing outward to the sun. Well, well...as I mixed the passage from John with my combined research on pruning, I had no choice but to examine my own life. Now, as I pruned, I first spent time examining and testing each bush. I immediately focused on the woody arms (as they looked the most dead) and cut deep to see if any life remained. I continued to cut down until the woody part stopped, if it did, and a green and white interior showed forth. I wondered, "where are the woody arms in my own life that need to be examined and cut deep? Check it out - green symbolizing new life and white symbolizing a cleansing from the old. I could imagine that being cut several times might not have been the desired wish of the bush, or me, but unless that which no longer produces life is destroyed and separated, new, emerging life is given little to no hope. The verse in John records that God cuts off every branch that does not bear fruit. In the natural, allocating energy to something dead is a waste of time? In God's kingdom - He is the one cutting off the non-productive branch. He alone knows, but God help me to understand this process in my life no matter how painful it can be at times. God - the master gardener - examines, determines, and cuts. Sometimes He cuts those things which we may not suspect are dead in order to bring increased purpose into our lives. I may not enjoy the cutting process, but I trust God and my heart's desire is to display Jesus well. Here's how we'll end today - if pruning brings more of Jesus to a lost and dying world - I want it. Let's continue this tomorrow - but please re-read the "why prune" above with your spiritual eyes. See anything that relates to you? Have a great Thursday! PK

February 25, 2014 - "All Things In Moderation, Right?"

In the past several weeks I have heard 5 or 6 people comment, "all things in moderation." In fact, it happened just yesterday morning with some of our interns and provided a wonderful, teachable moment that I hope will provide a sticky truth for a LONG TIME. For many years I lived right within that statement and consoled myself with its "truth." However, three years ago I chose to rid myself of sugar and starch and gain the freedom that being healthy offered. As I shut and bolted certain doors in food-related areas of my life, people began to confess over me that I was tormented by the spirit of fear simply because I said, "I CAN'T eat _________." Isn't it amazing that things we won't allow in our lives, when others do, can be viewed as fear in some twisted way? I care what others eat, but I don't care to make people feel ashamed of what they do and do not eat. BIG DIFFERENCE! Many times I would simply smile and say, "I am not afraid to eat - I totally eat EVERYTHING I choose. Just because I don't eat sugar or starch doesn't mean I have allowed an eating disorder to consume me." I hope you hear my heart in this. Recently this "all things in moderation" statement has caused me to really question what is actually being said and do I agree with it. At first, I simply dismissed it. A couple of days ago, I attacked it. Actually, in my opinion, the statement is a lie. I hate to be blunt or rude, but sometimes we need a friend to help us see the truth and challenge our colloquialisms. Right? So, let's consider the statement "all things in moderation." Often I hear this announcement used in reference to eating smaller portions of anything desired. It takes discipline to say "no" to the desserts; but saying "all things in moderation," as we cut 6 small pieces of various desserts on the buffet, allows us to move the boundaries of discipline, doesn't it? Would you taste a pot of soup containing a singular drop of poison? That's the definition of moderation for many - simply a small amount. If certain food items have been proven to be harmful to one's body - like aspartame - is a moderate amount allowed? Not for me - but let's widen the "all" in that statement beyond the realm of food and give a close look. Is a little adultery in moderation okay? How about murder? Or perhaps lying - well we do call those "white lies," but they are still rooted in deception although often easier to excuse for many. Do I really want to teach my grand children "all things in moderation?" Is a little sex before marriage okay or a moderate amount of stealing? NO! I am certainly not trying to be the police here, but simply encouraging me - and maybe you - to consider those sayings we use without question. Are they carrying truth and are they principles by which we want to live our lives? Our words are so powerful! I am asking the Lord to help me practice the discipline of silence and carefully examine each word that journeys from my mouth. I want to speak LIFE on all levels. Perhaps these passages will help us this day to examine the weight of our statements: Matthew 12:37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." Proverbs 10:19 Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues. Proverbs 12:13 Evildoers are trapped by their sinful talk, and so the innocent escape trouble. Proverbs 13:2 From the fruit of their lips people enjoy good things, but the unfaithful have an appetite for violence. Proverbs 13:3 Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin. Proverbs 21:23 Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity. Have a blessed Tuesday, PK

February 24, 2014 - "The Mighty Warrior Dog"

Good morning and can you believe we are already concluding February this week and a week later changing to Day Light Savings Time? Can someone shout, "slow down?" Remember, this is LIfe Group Sunday and I am making pizza. YUM! Let me know if you're coming and, if possible, what you will be contributing so I can plan enough pizza. I acquired some YUMMY recipes last month from our group and have already started making some of them. We start at 6pm. Come and have a meal with a group of healthy eaters who are just crazy enough to believe healthy food can actually taste good! PS - the pizza is made with almond flour and actually very good. Bring a friend. This weekend I had my first three day, over-night sleepover with the grand puppy. Yes, I said grand puppy. Teree and the girls headed to Florida for the last few days of winter break and guess who was on grandma duty with their dog? Me. Macy is a small cocker spaniel who is two and very smart. VERY SMART. On Saturday while I was walking her, now remember she's small, she happened to jump upon a large stick and it "kicked up" at her. She jumped about 6 inches and started baking hysterically and growling as she crouched and "sized-up" the enemy. She slowly began to bark with authority as she crawled ready to defend herself and her Nina (that's me) from the enemy. She never realized that the enemy (the stick) had no power to attack her, as she had caused it to kick up, but with every passing second she became more the warrior. She progressed from being the crouched down, shy "I might be scared of you" dog to this champion with a bowed chest and piercing bark. She turned her head and dared that stick to move. All I could do was laugh. Then the wind blew and a sound came from the leaves around the stick...and the mighty warrior dog jumped back and cowered again still pawing the ground and trying to gain her, "I'm not scared of you bark." Eventually, she inched closer again and confidently reminded the enemy who was boss. Tears filled my eyes from laughing so hard. But aren't we a lot like that sometimes? An issue in our life jumps up at us - sometimes without provocation and sometimes because we made a mistake - and it can appear to be the monster of all issues and fear grips our heart and torments our mind. I have been there. How about you? However, we must always remind ourselves that God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. (2 Tim 1:7) There is no issue in our life that God cannot handle and the Holy Spirit help us through. But sometimes when the issue rises up multiple times, we can begin to lose hope that God sees and God will never leave us. Courage can run out the window. What really happens is that our faith in God can begin to dwindle and if He is removed from the defensive strategy, our mind seems to default to fear again. Can I share with you my definition of courage: "Courage is not the absence of fear; courage is trusting God in the presence of fear." God shared that with me several years ago and it really kept me to the truth. No matter what our feelings say - God's Word says He will never leave us nor forsake us. FOREVER. Our issues are simply places to gain maturity in God's eyes. He's always present in our present issues. While I might not see the stick (back to Macy) the way God does, I can rest assured that as long as I am connected to God (as Macy was on my leash and I was right there with her) I have nothing to fear. Had the stick been a real threat to Macy, I would have rescued her. Remind yourself today: Power, love, and a sound mind all come from my being connected to God and the issues of my life are but inanimate objects to the Creator of the universe. That's a great way to start a week! PK

February 21, 2014 - "The Real Truth about Watermelons"

Good morning to you all. It's great to round out the week with warmer temps here and the smell of spring is in the air. I had someone introduce me to the small, baby watermelons yesterday and I about flipped out. Where have I been? Many of you who have traveled with me for many years know that I am a freak about that fruit. I could eat it everyday and throughout the day and pronounce, "THIS is a good day!" So I did some research last night to see if I was running this fascination on taste alone and was impressed to discover so many wonderful benefits. The following article comes from National Geographic Daily News. The link is www.nationalgeographic.com I KNEW I loved this fruit - but now I love it more! I always say, "some people shop for shoes - I shop for watermelons." God's Word teaches in James 1:17 that every good and perfect gift comes from above and in my heart watermelon is both. :) (that is of course a stretch, but I know God loves me and knows I never want to use His Word wrongly) Anyway...my favorite fruit is back at home and I AM A HAPPY GIRL! I pray that your weekend be filled with laughter, hope, encouragement and the confidence we have in knowing Jesus as our personal Lord and Savior. Let's chat Monday. PK Five Reasons To Eat Watermelons 1. It soothes sore muscles. According to a new study in the Journal of Agricultural Food and Chemistry, drinking watermelon juice before a hard workout helped reduce athletes' heart rate and next-day muscle soreness. That's because watermelon is rich in an amino acid called L-citrulline, which the body converts to L-arginine, an essential amino acid that helps relax blood vessels and improve circulation. The study's seven participants, all men, were given 17 ounces (500 mL) of either natural watermelon juice, watermelon juice enriched with additional citrulline, or a placebo drink an hour before their workouts. Interestingly, the natural juice was just as effective as the enriched juice. The researchers also determined that intestinal cells can absorb more citrulline from watermelon juice than from citrulline supplements, especially when the juice is unpasteurized. 2. It helps heart health. Postmenopausal women experienced improved cardiovascular healthafter six weeks of taking commercially available watermelon extract supplements containing citrulline and arginine, according to a study published earlier this year by Florida State University physiologist Arturo Figueroa. And in a 2012 study—also led by Figueroa—such supplements helped alleviate high blood pressure in obese, middle-aged adults. (Not surprisingly, he's received two grants from the Watermelon Promotion Board.) 3. It could be a natural Viagra. Improved circulation can benefit more than just the heart, as at least one watermelon researcher has pointed out. But you'd probably have to eat an awful lot to achieve the desired effect--and eating too much could cause unfortunate side effects, since watermelon has long had areputation as a natural diuretic. 4. It's rich in vitamins and minerals, but low in calories. Given its name, you might assume the fruit has little nutritional value—and it is more than 90 percent water. But a 10-ounce (300-mL) wedge of watermelon packs in about one-third of the recommended daily value of vitamins A and C, as well as a modest amount of potassium (9 percent of the daily value). 5. It could even combat cancer. Watermelon is among the best dietary sources of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to both the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer, although scientists are still investigating the details of that connection.

February 20, 2014 - "Don't Hide Trouble"

Yea, it's Thursday and we are walking toward the pools being opened and our summer shorts being pulled from the attic and placed in our drawers. Are we ready? I want to encourage you to weigh daily and keep your calorie content in check. I always remind people, "Five pounds is a lot easier to grab than 50." Let me remind you, unless you are weighing you have NO TRUE measure of whether your health goals are really working. I know, I hate to weigh as well, but truth is truth. I don't get upset about fluctuations, as they will occur, unless they start peaking above 3 pounds for several days. Then, it's probably not a water or stress issue but an over-eating issue. If you are in a starving phase, keep tons of veggies on hand and grab as many as you like. This really works. Yesterday, I had 2 apples back to back because I was extremely hungry. Let me encourage you to plan ahead before trouble arises in the form of serous temptation and the ONLY thing you have on hand are chocolate kisses. :) Proverbs 22:3 says it this way: "When you see trouble coming, don’t be stupid and walk right into it— be smart and hide." The wise King Solomon should have placed my name in capitals within that verse yesterday. For many years, I didn't hide FROM trouble, I HID trouble. Not good! It's the annual cookie sale for the young ladies we all love and adore, and for much of my adult life this was a temptation I PLANNED for. I laughed with a friend on Tuesday, I actually bought the cookies for "humanitarian reasons - being a kind person" and absolutely made a "plan" to ration them by placing them in baggies in the freezer so I couldn't consume them all at once. That never worked for me. I tried to HIDE trouble - but duh...I always knew where trouble was hiding and could reach trouble quickly. You know this procedure? When I got healthy, I had to decide that I couldn't allow TROUBLE access into my house, pantry, or body. Saying "no" is easier, but I still have to run from trouble. It is a conscious effort. If stupidity overcomes me, I pay. I always said, "it's horrible to pay money for something I know will eventually harm my body." As Proverbs states - that's walking right into trouble. Today - I don't purchase, carry home, or hide trouble. I cannot. I am following the advice of King Solomon and hiding FROM trouble. The good thing is that hiding from trouble means we don't have to hide at the pool or in our shorts. YEA! My encouragement today - rid your pantry, fridge, cabinets, office desk drawers and car of all hidden trouble and declare that you are smart, just as God's Word teaches. Life Group meets next week. Hope you can come. PK

February 19, 2014 - "I Made Myself Do It"

GMA, We are half way through another week and wow, it felt soooo much like spring yesterday. I am sharing one of my devotionals from the morning as it's too good to pass. EVERY one of us have completed tasks that we absolutely didn't want to complete. Yes? I found myself there yesterday. I never thought about how completing tasks we really can't stand actually tests our character. I find there are still so many areas I need maturing in. :) I will move this flesh a little quicker next time and REMEMBER that life is not always going to hand me "things I want to do." Completing the DO NOT WANT TO COMPLETE LIST, with a right attitude, gives a brilliant opportunity to remind this flesh, "you're not the boss of me." Willingness and attitude toward the task - huge in maturity. Right? Have a good Wednesday! PK This is from My Utmost for His Highest (Oswald Chambers): Taking the Initiative Against Drudgery 02192014 Arise, shine . . . —Isaiah 60:1 When it comes to taking the initiative against drudgery, we have to take the first step as though there were no God. There is no point in waiting for God to help us— He will not. But once we arise, immediately we find He is there. Whenever God gives us His inspiration, suddenly taking the initiative becomes a moral issue— a matter of obedience. Then we must act to be obedient and not continue to lie down doing nothing. If we will arise and shine, drudgery will be divinely transformed. Drudgery is one of the finest tests to determine the genuineness of our character. Drudgery is work that is far removed from anything we think of as ideal work. It is the utterly hard, menial, tiresome, and dirty work. And when we experience it, our spirituality is instantly tested and we will know whether or not we are spiritually genuine. Read John 13. In this chapter, we see the Incarnate God performing the greatest example of drudgery— washing fishermen’s feet. He then says to them, “If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet” (John 13:14). The inspiration of God is required if drudgery is to shine with the light of God upon it. In some cases the way a person does a task makes that work sanctified and holy forever. It may be a very common everyday task, but after we have seen it done, it becomes different. When the Lord does something through us, He always transforms it. Our Lord takes our human flesh and transforms it, and now every believer’s body has become “the temple of the Holy Spirit.”

February 18, 2014 - "I Remember"

*** On March 1st, I will no longer post to this site but to my website. I will share that link several days next week. I have decided that God allowed me to be born in the exact era that best fits my personality. I was watching a movie Sunday afternoon and the "ladies were retiring to the parlor to resume their pleasantries," so the Lady of the House exclaimed. The men kissed their foreheads with the "go play cards and do the lady thing" mentality and I had to smirk. Gotta be honest. The daughter, however, considered herself to be "modern." She balked at the mold and refused to be silent about her opinions. My kind of girl. The movie progressed through the journey of this young woman standing for her opinions, beliefs, and firm commitment that life was better in America where land was being given away for those strong enough to posses it. Determination times 17 is what I thought. I wondered as I watched the struggles to overcome yield to discouragement what I would have really done in her position. I realize all over the world people are suffering and sometimes I have to stop and ask myself, "what would I REALLY do?" It's easy to say how we would respond, but I am convinced that none of us know our exact response until the exact confrontation arises. Sometimes I wonder what it would have really been like to live with Jesus. Do you? Would I have been strong enough to face persecution for the truth I had discovered and embraced? I tried to read today about the process of being scourged and I honestly could NOT complete the reading. The details were so horrific I literally covered my eyes and finally closed the book. The description was beyond what I could imagine and I wondered - how did Paul endure that not once, but twice? How did Jesus endure such a beating for someone like me? Could I, as his mother, have watched such a sight? So many questions in my heart. In several of the Gospels we read that Jesus gathered the disciples together the night before he was betrayed. He had witnessed scourgings as well as many crucifixions, as they were common practices in his day. And yet Luke records "they reclined at the table" as Jesus shared the passover meal with them. He told the men that night that he must suffer and that his body would be broken and his blood poured out for them. Actually the text reads, "for you." Can you smile as you digest the you - is you? It's me. How powerful a concept that Jesus would willingly to suffer so that the broken fellowship between God and each of us was restored. His command that evening - "as often as you do this - remember me." That seems so simple an exchange for His suffering. Each of us faces our own daily struggles and sufferings. I know - me too. However, as we remain - abide - develop - in or relationship with our Eternal Father (THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR MAKING THAT POSSIBLE) at least we will never have to face the torment of being plucked from His hand or spend a moment separated from Him. Suffering is never easy, but realizing that Heaven is my home and Jesus left this Earth to prepare a place for me gives me the courage to endure. Let your heart be at rest today as you remember! Have a blessed one - PK

February 17, 2014 - "I Don't Do Confusion"

Sorry this is late - I have been so hard at work both studying the Word and working through my task list that I haven't had time to stop until now. But I need some time to breathe and let my brain "rest for a moment." Do you ever do that? I must admit that Valentine's Day this year had more chocolate displays than I've ever seen. It almost became a game with me to see which type of candy could be re-packaged for this lover's holiday. Then, as I entered a store yesterday to get a few things I discovered the Valentine chocolates were reduced in price and the chocolate Easter bunnies out for grab. REALLY? I thought yesterday was still included in the Valentine's weekend, but I guess the retailers feel differently. I walked the store yesterday and considered again how powerful packaging and marketing are. Now mind you I rarely see whole foods offered during holidays with such extravagance. Can you picture a display of carrots shaped into an Easter bunny in the front of your favorite store as opposed to the chocolate ones? Probably not. I had so many people comment they found themselves powerless to say "no" to chocolate. I wondered about that - what type of inanimate object has that much control over us? Have you ever thought about it? Several years ago I used to say that chocolate was "calling my name, and I simply could NOT resist." Yes, I said it in fun, but after this past holiday with ALL the comments about the power of chocolate I really shook my head. Does chocolate really have that strong a voice? NO, not the object, but the TASTE. Taste triggers our mind into feeling a sense of pleasure as if we are being treated to something desirable. Remember, sugar sedates and comforts. So chocolate candy is a three-fold bomb - sedates, comforts, and tastes great. YIKES - what a deadly combo. Yesterday, while out to eat with my family, I designed my meal at a restaurant to accomplish my health goals. It really wasn't what I "wanted" to eat. However, I smiled at my brother and said, "this a great steak!" We all laughed, but how many of you know we simply cannot satisfy our flesh at every meal. Taste is a fabulous plus, but being healthy has to out weigh taste. The problem is that chocolate tastes good "for a season" but it quickly settles on our belly and thighs. Then, we often feel bad and opt for more chocolate to comfort us only to repeat the process. It's a viscous cycle! We have to decide we want off! Once we have made a tough decision to never return to the sugar wheel, often every issue (or holiday) in life lines up in our house and our mind reasons, "YOU NEED SUGAR! THAT'S THE ONLY WAY TO ENDURE THIS ISSUE." That is so not true! When we continue to rationalize truth and make excuses for our weaknesses - we weaken the boundaries of success. Slowly we return to the old way of thinking, even though we KNOW the truth. You see the Bible, speaking of truth, could actually read "the truth you know INTIMATELY sets you free." Why? Because when another voice speaks to lure us from the truth we are able to say, "that voice brings life - that one brings death," and we are able to decide without confusion. I don't do well with confusion. How about you? Have a great week, PK

February 14, 2014 - "God's Valentine"

Happy Valentine's Day and praise God for the sunshine. These past couple of weeks have really reminded me of how much I love and need the light. There's something special about the rays of the sun hitting my eyes that make me smile. Maybe you too? FYI - my editor contacted me yesterday and things are progressing rapidly. I would really appreciate your prayers as my journey may change a bit. I am not certain how God is going to use this devotional cookbook and combine it with my heart's desire. But His Word teaches us that if we delight ourselves in Him, He will give us the desires of our heart. (Psalm 37:4) I have held that close in my heart for years. Matthew Henry comments on that verse in this manner: To delight in God is as much a privilege as a duty. He has not promised to gratify the appetites of the body, and the humours of the fancy, but the desires of the renewed, sanctified soul. What is the desire of the heart of a good man? It is this, to know, and love, and serve God. Commit thy way unto the Lord; roll thy way upon the Lord, so the margin reads it. Cast thy burden upon the Lord, the burden of thy care. We must roll it off ourselves, not afflict and perplex ourselves with thoughts about future events, but refer them to God. By prayer spread thy case and all thy cares before the Lord, and trust in him. We must do our duty, and then leave the event with God. The promise is very sweet: He shall bring that to pass, whatever it is, which thou has committed to him. As we talked yesterday, waiting on God and determining that our best efforts never compare with the richness of His plan and His eternal love for each of us gives me continued assurance that time IS NOT WORKING AGAINST ME. Maybe someone needs to hear that this morning. God has heard and taken note of your prayers and life, and delay is not always denial. UNLESS...God, who knows you best, realizes the potential harm in your petition. I would never give one of my kids something catastrophic no matter how they pleaded. As the adult, I am more knowledgeable so saying, "no" is easy. They continue to ask because they don't know the potential danger. Often, for children, the answer of "no" can be misinterpreted as "I don't love you." ABSOLUTELY not true - in fact, it could totally the opposite! God's heart and love for each of us is BIG enough to say "yes, no, or maybe" as He needs to. Our duty is to delight in Him...regardless. God gave us the best Valentine gift in the form of eternal life and then asks that we share the good news with a world who simply sees Valentine's Day as a box of chocolates. I know that excludes many of you but the world, without Jesus, sees this day as chocolates and fancy dinners. As we give our Valentine gifts today, may they have the Spirit of the Lord attached that speaks clearly, "I'll love you forever...no matter what!" Have a great Friday and smile as you remember that God knew you before He fashioned you and chose you! Much love, PK

February 13, 2014 - "Waiting on God"

Well, we survived the "catastrophic" ice event and I'm telling you it was a challenge to stay on routine while sitting in the house all day. Anybody identify with that? I did get my exercise in and a few emails answered, but certainly not what I planned. One of my grand babies asked, "Nina, why am I so tired? All I did was lay around today." I reminded her of a basic, scientific principle - energy creates energy. We actually see that principle worked out in so many areas of our lives and not simply living beyond couch potato status. It was a great time to reinforce that getting some exercise in daily is vital to a healthy life style. I love those teachable moments. This morning let's examine Isaiah 64:4. Isaiah 64:4 Amplified Bible (AMP) 4 For from of old no one has heard nor perceived by the ear, nor has the eye seen a God besides You, Who works and shows Himself active on behalf of him who [earnestly] waits for Him. Let's consider that word - waits. Often we have been taught "we make our own destiny...or...no one will work on our behalf as we would...or...it's the squeaky wheel that gets the oil." Have you ever heard or said any of this? And while I understand this clearly with my type A personality, SOMETIMES I can get ahead of the game and suffer due to not allowing the variables to all come together before I "make" the conclusion, especially if there doesn't seem to be one. When I read this verse this morning, I was confronted with this truth...I work and yield my own results or I wait on God and reap His results. That's really a no-brainer. Right? I must be honest, though, sometimes I can really get impatient for the answer to the problem and miss the BEST solution. There are many solutions sometimes, and settling for a good answer means I don't reap the benefits of the BEST answer. Our verse this morning clearly teaches that NO ONE throughout the duration of time has ever seen a God like ours who works and shows himself active on our behalf. Yes...but there's the end of the verse...who earnestly WAITS for him. I went to the Hebrew this morning and found that the word waits, in this context, means to wait or long for. I was reminded that while we love ALL our children equally, those who seem to have a particular love and longing for us as their parents, those who wait on us for guidance and help, seem to have a larger measure of this focus on a regular basis. It's all about relationship, isn't it? A further study of the word lead me to "being bound or tied down." Odd? However, as I pondered I could see how sometimes we could run ahead of God's BEST solution unless we are bound and tied to the TRUTH that He really is at work in the major AND THE MINOR details of our lives. Just because we didn't get the answer we asked for, doesn't mean God isn't at work. God's BEST answer could take longer to manifest than we have allowed and pre-determined it should. SOOO...I am reminded that I need to wait on God and allow Him to work on my behalf just as this verse says. And, while patience is not my best virtue, it is the one God allows me to work on most. I wonder why? :) PK

February 11, 2014 - "Preparation!"

**** Remember, at the end of this month, I will be posting to my website and no longer here. For those of our family who don't live in Georgia, we are preparing for what the weather people are calling a "catastrophic event." I am a girl who likes to prepare, so I joined the ranks of those who listened and have a plan in place in the event they are correct. As I listened to the early reports this morning, the weather man conveyed that, "with every set of incoming data the event becomes worse." I was glad I made a plan last night but as I lay quietly this morning, I shifted my focus to things which happen daily, all around each of us, with the potential for catastrophic impact. Much of that goes unnoticed by the masses and yet shapes the inner workings of our heart. Doesn't it? Sometimes these "catastrophic-event makers" seem insignificant - unless they are happening to us. Consider these daily event-makers we are required to filter: 1. rejection 2. fear 3. failure 4. ugly comments about our kindness 5. family drama 6. anger And the list goes on. Each of these singularly impact things laying deep within who we are but often are joined by others exponentially impacting our spirits. Wouldn't it be great to announce, "I'm never bothered by these." Fabulous - please pray for me, as I am. Yes, when these unwanted visitors arrive, I find truth from God's Word and combat their advances. However, as with this ice event, sometimes they are random - hard to detect - and "weigh down" our power source (God's TRUTH). I thought this morning, making a daily plan to meet with God early, read His Word daily, pick up the weapons of our warfare (Ephesians 6), which are not carnal, and remain alert are all critical to surviving the "catastrophic-event makers" that Satan uses to keep us from moving forward in the full confidence that we have been redeemed and declared free by the blood of Jesus. That makes me want to shout! The weather people normally present "happy news" and rarely "catastrophic events." However, successfully navigating our day means we are preparing for those daily arrows the wicked one slings. They come - and they come daily. I cannot wait to fight until they arrive; I make a plan each morning. It's cool that the Holy Spirit, our eternal weather man, is sending the signals and the alert notices throughout the day. The questions is: what is our response? Let's not be trapped by denial, or fueled by drama, but stand firm in God's assurance that He will never leave us nor forsake us! Amen! Stay warm! PK

February 10, 2014 - "Wisdom and Understanding"

I had the BEST time at our Healthy4You! LIfe Group last night and we had some yummy, HEALTHY foods. It was awesome! I ended up with 6 new recipes and that makes me a happy girl. Beyond an evening of eating healthy sits the key component though - dialogue. Dialogue builds relationships and relationships are critical in the winning combination for great health in my opinion. I need others giving support and accountability especially on the days when I feel weak or tired. How about you? Healthy relationships have now taken on new meaning in my life. I am grateful that so many are now opening their minds and hearts to the benefits of staying on the path in spite of..... I so enjoy sharing a meal with people who have a desire to use food for its designed purpose and not to cover hurts and emotional scars. Our Freedom Connection #2 lesson challenged us to find JOY IN the journey to health not along he way or occasionally - but actually dig deep into our God-given JOY when the journey toward health isn't always the easiest or most enjoyable path. And let's be honest, a cheeseburger with fries is sometimes easy AND desirable but NEVER the best option. So when we say, "no" to that choice, sometimes we have to battle our own pity party and smile as we remind ourselves that our spirit is stronger than our flesh and being healthy in our spirit, soul, AND body is joyous. Yes? However, in the battle with our flesh sometimes joy is far from our mind. Let us remember this is a journey, our journey, and we will find JOY! We are not alone. Proverbs 4 lists the benefits of gaining wisdom and understanding. It's one of my favorites! At my age I am finally applauding wisdom and understanding - it took me a while though. :) Let's conclude today with this passage and chat again tomorrow. I pray your Monday is filled with wise choices that come from a profound level of understanding. PK Proverbs 4 (NIV) Get Wisdom at Any Cost 4 Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. 2 I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching. 3 For I too was a son to my father, still tender, and cherished by my mother. 4 Then he taught me, and he said to me, “Take hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands, and you will live. 5 Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them. 6 Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. 7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. 8 Cherish her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you. 9 She will give you a garland to grace your head and present you with a glorious crown.” 10 Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. 11 I instruct you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. 12 When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. 13 Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life. 14 Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers. 15 Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way. 16 For they cannot rest until they do evil; they are robbed of sleep till they make someone stumble. 17 They eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence. 18 The path of the righteous(V) is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. 19 But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble. 20 My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. 21 Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; 22 for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body. 23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. 24 Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. 25 Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. 26 Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. 27 Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.

February 7, 2014 - "The Benefits of Listening Well"

Just a reminder that Healthy4You! Life Group meets this Sunday and it is our Valentine gathering. I am making a NSA red velvet cake with a cream cheese icing and crab cakes. My mom always told me to never try something new on guests - only family. WELL...I have made these once, they are a work in progress, and you are family. (PS - they are low fat and not fried, but taste pretty yummy for just a few calories) So I make no declaration, but I need to keep tweaking them for my next set of recipes. Listen to that - YIKES. I better get one devotional cookbook published first. Yes? This Sunday evening we will weigh in (those who want to), share our meal and recipes, and I will be sharing Freedom Connection #2 - JOY in the Journey. Please connect with me if you're coming so I can prepare adequately. See you at 6. We've been talking this week about how God communicates: through His billboard in the sky, His Word, His church, His Son. When Adam and Eve broke fellowship with the Father, He began a journey of seeking to touch His creation (including us) daily with whatever means necessary to communicate His eternal affection. God concludes His Word with the book of Revelation and in there we find an admonishment from John the Revelator, "to him who has ears to hear, let him hear by the Spirit of the Lord." We find this to be the consistent directive to the seven churches mentioned in chapters 2 and 3 of that book. Now certainly John knew they had natural ears and that is not what he was questioning. As I have examined this passage for the past couple of days, I have asked myself the question, "do I have ears to hear by the Spirit of the Lord?" You see I totally believe that God speaks is so many unique and wonderful ways and often in our busyness, we miss His voice. I absolutely believe that God's desire is to be the voice we hear first and last each day. I wonder if I am listening? Are you? God spoke and the earth was created. I wonder what He spoke and created in my life yesterday? Yours? What will He speak and create today? I don't want to take a sunset or sunrise for granted, or the power of a storm, or the words in red in the New Testament. My heart's desire is to know Father God in such an intimate way that His still, small voice speaks loudly to me. There are often many voices that cry out to us in a 24 hour period, but the Bible clearly teaches in John 10: 27-28 "27"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me;28and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand.…" Praise God we can hear His voice, He knows us, and we are following him. Right? Be encouraged this day that God is speaking because He knows us and plans to reward us with eternal life. YES! See you Sunday night, PK

February 6, 2014 - "Send Jesus to the Door"

Have you ever really thought about the HUGE difference between being tested and being tempted? Testing is usually called upon to prove something good...like do we believe what God is saying or how deep is our love of God. While being tempted desires to reveal a character flaw or a weakness contrary to the Spirit of the Lord. Temptation is a luring to submit to some issue of the flesh. Testing is one tool that God uses, but not temptation. There is an evil bent in temptation and we must learn to quickly discern the difference. Who is speaking and allowing things in our lives and can I tell the difference? Let's read some scripture this morning. That always helps me see clearly: James 1:3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces ... because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ... for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. ... Deuteronomy 13:3 you must not listen to the words of that prophet ... ... prophet or dreamer. The LORD your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul. ... Hebrews 3:8 do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion ... do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the wilderness ... Luke 4:13 When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left ... When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time. ... James 1:13 When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." ... When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone ... 1 Corinthians 10:13 "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." I love this quotation by Billy Graham that helps to clearly give us some help when working through being tested or tempted because we will face BOTH and sometimes in the same day. Scripture tells us that God tempts no one. Temptation always comes from the devil. God will test us and allow us to endure the temptation, but the devil does the tempting. How do we overcome it? A little girl once told her method. "When the devil comes knocking at the door," she said, "I don't answer it. I send Jesus to the door." And that is exactly the way to take care of it. Send Jesus to the door! Billy Graham The Bible never promises that we will endure life with no periods of being tested or tempted. God uses various tests to prove certain things about either Himself or us, but He does know our limits and promises to never go beyond them. I don't know about you, but during some of those tests I was convinced that God must have a lot more faith and belief in me than I could ever have in myself. Thank you, Father, for knowing my limits and providing a method to endure. Remember this today - God may pass out the test, but Satan is offering the cheat sheet. Send Jesus to the door! PK

February 6, 2014 - "God Speaks"

**** Just a reminder that this is the last month for me to post using blogspot. Starting in March I will transfer to my own website. I will supply the link at the end of February. Yesterday we examined the beginning of Psalm 19 and spoke of the heavens as God's billboard. God is always communicating with mankind and has since He created us. The Bible declares in Genesis that God walked in the cool of the garden with Adam. Doing what? Communicating. I can't begin to imagine what walking and talking with God in the Garden of Eden must have been like. The closest thing, for me, would be the late afternoon walks along the shore of the beach with just God and I. Oh well... God spoke to Noah and Abraham and changed the course of history. God spoke to Moses from a burning bush and delivered His chosen people - over three million of them - to display His glory and honor His word. Throughout the course of time God has used many, varied techniques to communicate with His creation He so adores and still looks for ways moment by moment to communicate with each of us DAILY. David writes in Psalm 19:1-6 of how God communicates without words and NO ONE can escape His display. There is no language barrier when the sun, the moon, and the stars speak. People around the world comprehend without the symbolic combinations that often limit our human interaction among the nations. Not in the heavens. However, then David reminds us of how God uses the spoken and written word to direct our lives and give us the best hope for right living. Check this out: Psalm 19:7-9 The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. 8 The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living. 9 Reverence for the Lord is pure, lasting forever. The laws of theLord are true; each one is fair. Each of the bold words expresses another attempt by God to communicate. Often people celebrate the beautiful sunset and see God speaking to His creation but the LAWS of God can sometimes communicate something not so beautiful to a host of people. But how many of you know a land without laws = lawlessness = confusion, chaos, and disorder. God's Word, His Laws, His commands are given to help us - not hurt us. In order to receive the instruction of the Lord through His statues, we often need the revealing grace of the Holy Spirit. Or I do. David ends this Psalm declaring how valuable the communication of God really is to us even in the form of a law. He declares, "they are more precious than the finest gold." Let's be honest - when is the last time one of us looked at the commandments of the Lord and saw them as finer than gold? Or sweeter than honey from the honeycomb? I think today we should pause and not simply be grateful for the beautiful sunrise which God uses to say, "good morning." But we should thank Him that He created boundaries and decrees that help keep us morally secure in a world where lawlessness is fashionable. God is speaking in many ways. Are we listening to them all or selecting the easiest frequency? PK

February 4, 2014 - "God's Billboard"

**** At the end of this month, I will no longer be using bloodspot, but will post to my new website. I will post a link soon if you choose to continue having "coffee and the Word" with me each morning. :) Have you ever tried to really figure out the mind of God? Isn't that a HUGE undertaking? Sometimes I think I have a few wisdom tokens under my belt only to discover that God is so much bigger than my understanding. I have been pondering these spring birds and hyacinths that seem to have no sense that it was snowing and frigid last week. I walked outside and thought, "do you have any clue that it's icy and snow is everywhere?" Their little song was so filled with life and animation. I remember thinking that as cold as it was, they are always the first responders to announce the spring is coming. Then, through the snow beside our front door, I noticed the green leaves from my other first responders - the hyacinths. I feel especially sorry for them for unlike the birds, they bloom only once and are gone. I wanted desperately to inform them that perhaps this isn't the most suitable climate for making an entrance. However, they have not listened. Yesterday they were blooming forth and making their stand joining with the spring birds to be the first to respond with the good news. This year perhaps GREAT NEWS, as it's been a long, cold winter. Spiritually, God's creation arrives on the scene daily to announce the glory of God. Psalm 19 records it this way: Psalm 19 (MSG) A David Psalm 19 1-2 God’s glory is on tour in the skies, God-craft on exhibit across the horizon. Madame Day holds classes every morning, Professor Night lectures each evening. 3-4 Their words aren’t heard, their voices aren’t recorded, But their silence fills the earth: unspoken truth is spoken everywhere. 4-5 God makes a huge dome for the sun—a superdome! The morning sun’s a new husband leaping from his honeymoon bed, The daybreaking sun an athlete racing to the tape. 6 That’s how God’s Word vaults across the skies from sunrise to sunset, Melting ice, scorching deserts, warming hearts to faith. I really do love the fact that God has a plan to remind us throughout the day, announce if you will, that He is the one responsible for creating the world as we know it, including each of us. The grand display in the skies is His billboard. He uses it to make us smile, but also to keep us informed. Each day let us lift up our eyes to see what Father God is sharing for this segment in His time table. As the verse above records, "unspoken truth spoken everywhere." God help us to see what you are speaking in the earth in these days! Let's talk tomorrow? PK

February 3, 2014 - "Walking in the Natural and according to God's Plan"

Good morning to you all and it's it great to be on the other side of a super-sized party? I love going to the Super Bowl parties, but honestly without a team I know in the mix, I am simply enjoying friends at a party and not an active participant in watching the game? It is FUN, however, to hear the roaring cheers and watch everyone chatting and visiting. I love community! Speaking of which, our Healthy4You! Life Group meets THIS SUNDAY evening at 6pm at my house. Please let me know if you'll be coming. Find something healthy to share and let's enjoy party#2 this week. I will be sharing Freedom Connection#2 following our time of healthy indulgence. :) As I type, I have the front door opened and the sounds of the birds amidst the cool breeze shouts change to my spirit. There are always signs of change - God planned for us to not wander (walk) in darkness, but be children of the light. And yesterday, before heading to our Super Bowl party, my daughter and I went for a walk. Isn't it amazing that Tuesday we had snow and yesterday we were walking in shorts and t-shirts around the track? Things can change quickly. But the truths of God's Word never change. As we grow in maturity, our experiences may broaden our understanding of certain passages but that doesn't mean they changed. I have chosen several verses from Ephesians 5 (AMP) this morning to emphasize that walking on a track is great BUT walking in God's truths is BEST! God not only desires that we read His Word, but that we move out - WALK - in them so that others may come to know and love Him as we do. Ephesians 5: 2, 8-10, 15-16 (AMP) 2 And walk in love, [esteeming and delighting in one another] as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a slain offering and sacrifice to God [for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance. 8 For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of Light [lead the lives of those native-born to the Light]. 9 For the fruit (the effect, the product) of the Light or the Spirit [consists] in every form of kindly goodness, uprightness of heart, and trueness of life. 10 And try to learn [in your experience] what is pleasing to the Lord [let your lives be constant proofs of what is most acceptable to Him]. 15 Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people), 16 Making the very most of the time [buying up each opportunity], because the days are evil. So today as you get your exercise video started, remember that your WALK throughout the day (lived out in front of others) communicates, in a non-verbal manner, whose you are. Walk well my friends! PK