January 31, 2014 - "He Knew Me First"

Well, after several days of being snowed in, it's back to work today and on some level I am happy about that. I do better with a routine. Also, it's very difficult for me to not wander into the kitchen for the next "something" while working from home. Last night I had to give myself a "high five" for sticking to the journey amidst all the meals I cooked. Sipping coffee with flavored creamers abundantly topped with whipped cream while munching on a warm cinnamon roll was a dream I had to rebuke. In my perfect scenario - this would have all occurred while watching the snow flakes fall rapidly and cover the yard to provide a new playground for my grands. BUT NO - fruit, unsweetened almond milk, steamed vegetables and warm tea were my reality. This morning the scale rewarded me for fighting for my new, snow-bound normal. YEA! I have started my prep work for the Super Bowl party. Hope you are planning ahead too. I know many times we feel we found God. Throughout the Bible we read that actually God knew us first. This morning while reading Galatians 1 again, the Apostle Paul reminded me of this truth. Paul was one of the "bad guys gone right" people in the Bible who really encourages me. Many of you know of Paul's dramatic conversion experience and how God spoke to him rocking his world and changing his course. God was less concerned with changing Paul's character and more concerned with bringing Paul into a love relationship with Himself. Remember God asked Paul, "Saul, Saul...why do you persecute me?" Isn't it interesting that God never asked why Saul was persecuting the church? God desires to bring us into His story FIRST that He can use for His glory. Galatians 1:15 reminds us that when God revealed Jesus in Paul, then Paul could impact others. I don't know about you, but I need God to reveal the Son in me daily so that I can reveal the Son to others daily. I am asking God to keep me focused on eternal things and to allow me to quickly understand those issues of non-eternal value. Sometimes I get SO STRESSED with issues that are here today and gone tomorrow. They simply serve as a distraction to my real, God-given purpose. God had a plan for my life first. He orders and arranges the steps of the righteous. I need to begin each day with asking for my assignments and seeing the eternal value in each one. Let's be grateful today that it pleased God to reveal His Son to each of us. That gives me perspective for today. Have a great one, PK

January 28, 2014 - "Blow The Trumpet"

Well, it appears that those of us in Georgia are finally going to see some frozen precipitation. AND, it is going to happen during the day so I can drink some hot tea and smile. I am sooo excited - "now skies - don't disappoint me!" I pray that where ever you are today that you are in a place of complete trust and obedience to God's best plan for your life. Question: the Super Bowl parties are here - are we ready? I am planning to take a dessert made with almond flour and xylitol. How about you? This morning I have been studying Bible characters who faced a crisis - a decision that God initiated and it required great faith for them to trust God and obey. As we approach life, there are always those areas where it never seems to go as planned and often there seems to be a struggle - a crisis if you will. I know it's easy to often decide these "issues" of life aren't worth the struggle. Sometimes it seems easier to walk in a different direction than battle the mountain AGAIN. I get that. But if life never required a struggle, could we understand the concept of victory? I sooo see this in my journey to be healthy. Actually, I see this principle over and over again. But I will not allow myself to focus on the struggle, but I chose to look forward to the victory. I wonder what Joshua's men thought as they journeyed daily around the city walls? Can you place yourself on their team? Perhaps they shook their head and wondered if Joshua was having his own PERSONAL conflict and they were marching for nothing. However, God doesn't reason as we reason nor is he required to respond as we do. Can you find a place recently where you felt God directed your path and it seemed unique? I really believe God is preparing us to listen carefully and not respond to Him from our emotions, but blind trust. Consider this passage this morning from the Message Translation: Romans 8:37 The Message (MSG) 31-39 So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn’t hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn’t gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God’s chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. So when you come to a decision today - an issue - be reminded that while the path to victory may seem odd, TRUST God. Jesus is at the right hand of the Father saying, "help Kathy (insert your name) be the best she can be today." Blown the trumpet and march around those walls - or WHATEVER God has told you to and know that God is on your side! PK

January 27, 2014 - "Giving Without Measure"

Good Monday morning as we begin a new week. I just returned from North Carolina where I was able to spend a couple of days with my husband and MAN - it was cold! Of course there was snow on the ground and windy, so perhaps the movement of air across the white stuff made me feel like I was freezing although I was layered and bundled. I DO LIKE drinking coffee by the fireplace when snow is on the ground. Anyway....today let's expound upon Luke 6:38. I had the honor of bringing the tithe and offering meditation yesterday at our church and the Lord took me to a very familiar passage on giving in Luke 6. As I began to study and examine different translations, as well as read the verse coupled with others and within context, I began to focus on the principle established. Here's what I feel Jesus was imparting to those traveling with him: your actions often determine the response you receive. Now yes, that is my interpretation, but I see this woven into the fabric of our Lord's teachings. Sometimes I wish this weren't the principle as I KNOW my actions are not always what they should be. Am I the only one? I realize Luke 6:38 speaks of giving, and people tend to shout when they digest "good measure - poured back into my lap - running over." But we cannot read the verse without digesting the meaning as a Jewish writer would have communicated it. Here's the verse as stated in the New Living Translation: "Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full--pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back." When we read this, sometimes we forget that all the good stuff begins with us - with our actions initiating the response! But we cannot understand the full meaning of what Jesus is trying to convey without reading the verse in context. Actually, upon close examination, it sits among verses which speak of doing good to others and forgiveness: 35"But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men. 36"Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. 37"Do not judge, and you will not be judged; and do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; pardon, and you will be pardoned. 38"Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure -- pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return." Yes, I believe that as we give to others we are planting seed which produces a harvest...but there are many things we give to others daily: love, support, non-judgmental attitudes - not just money. Remember the greatest gift is love. Plan today to give LAVISHLY and then expect that which you've given to be given to you. If you extend forgiveness today - you can expect forgiveness to be given to you in a good measure, pressed down, shaken together. Right? I need that type of forgiveness and love and patience given to me daily. But first...I have to give it generously. Have a great one! PK

January 23, 2014 - "I'm a Bust Without Love!"

Happy Thursday gang, Just a few reminders: Life Group will be February 9 and not the 2nd (due to the Super Bowl). Remember, pack and carry! You're the real Super Bowl Champs as you have chosen to be healthy for the duration of your life. HIGH FIVE! Also, I will not be blogging in the morning as I will be out of town. Let's talk on Monday? And finally, if you would like to be deleted from this group - just ask. I don't ever want people to feel pressured to get daily emails. All right then - enough housekeeping. Today I want to share from one of my devotional books. I have referenced it before, but this is too good to not pass along: "God is the giver of knowledge and He desires to have us put it into practice. But the moment we get knowledge, we get so carried away with the knowledge of having it that we forget that there is anything else to be done. But the fact is we have very little reason to rejoice until we put that knowledge into operation in life. Jesus said, 'you see, but do not perceive - you hear, but do not understand.' Food, lying undigested in the body, if not removed, will become harmful. It is only when it is assimilated with the blood and works itself into our hands, feet and head that it can be said to have done any good. So to have an understanding of biblical truth is a matter of thanksgiving to the Holy Spirit who brings revealing light to our understanding. But it will never move beyond this if it is not cherished in the heart and acted upon in life. Always remember it is not knowledge of the way God desires of us, but the practice of it. Not light - but love. For though I understand all mysteries and all knowledge, but have not love - I am nothing. 1 Cor 13:2" Why do I share this? We live in an informational era where often those with acquired knowledge and lots of degrees can be placed on pedestals and acclaimed simply for their knowledge. But can you imagine if Einstein or Edison never took their knowledge and moved forward with it how our lives could have been effected? The disciples had FIRST-HAND KNOWLEDGE of Jesus and His representation of Father God's plan for mankind. Had they been unwilling to LOVE others enough to go and share, again, perhaps our lives might be different. The point: yes, have your quiet time each day. Yes, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal truth to you from God's Word - it is your best weapon to destroy the lies you will hear from the enemy this day. Yes, read other books for additional knowledge and understanding. But then take that digested material and get it out. Memorize your current, favorite passage and find ways to share that with others. Perhaps make a healthy dessert to share at your Valentine's party and tell everyone that you want to invest in their health future. Or, find a passage of scripture each night for a week to share with a friend as a means of encouragement. You know where they are struggling and you know God's Word has hope. Get it out and demonstrate God's love in unique ways. Have a GREAT weekend! PK

January 22, 2014 - "My Bible Coach"

Good morning to you all, I pray you are making a healthy plan as you move toward your Super Bowl parties. I saw a COOL picture this morning that used sandwich sections, veggies and rolled meats and shaped them into a stadium, using the ruffly lettuce as the grass around the playing field. I wish I was that creative. :) For those of you asking and praying with me about my project, Apples, Brownies or Both? a devotional cookbook, it was mailed back to the publisher yesterday with my first rounds of edits. Not sure about the turn around time, but at least we are one step further to distribution. Thanks for your love and support. Yesterday as we examined the unconfined abilities of the Holy Spirit, and one of the terms used was advocate. I like that term. Here's how the definition reads: advocate noun |ˈadvəkit| a person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy: he was an untiring advocate of economic reform. • a person who pleads on someone else's behalf: care managers can become advocates for their clients. • a pleader in a court of law; a lawyer: Marshall was a skilled advocate but a mediocre judge. After many years of pastoring, I am still intrigued as to the multitude of interpretations that can drawn concerning one passage of scripture. And yet I know that my understanding is based off certain filters, as are others. Variables such as denomination, experience, culture, region, and other people influence what we feel the Word of God communicates. I get that. And, as I grow in the things of God, certain passages now touch me differently. But we really need to fight for pure truth in this period of time in which we find ourselves. So many have opinions and make bold statements about revelations they feel they have received. I enjoy listening and gleaning, but the Bible teacher I MOST follow is the Holy Spirit. There are certain things in life we can delegate - gaining biblical wisdom is not one of them in my opinion. And without wisdom, I can find myself wandering aimlessly. Not good! In John 14:26 we read: But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. I need that promise; how about you? I need the Holy Spirit to be my Bible Coach and the head trainer for my daily workout. I need him to support me as I publicly endeavor to live a life of humility and holiness within the context of a world who rejects the truth. I feel supported and encouraged because the Holy Spirit KNOWS THE TRUTH and can constantly remind me, "YES, God did say!" Man I need that! I need the Holy Spirit to stand with me when the voice of the enemy of my soul is trying to attack the very purpose and heart of God within me. Say YES! This day, let's thank God for the promise in John 14 and listen carefully for those reminders. Have a great one! PK

January 21, 2014 - "Rapid Fire"

I went to see a movie with my daughter recently that was very violent and filled with such strong language. I would never see it again, but it had an amazing plot of survival and determination. There were so many times during the movie when I had to close my eyes and look away; and although my heart was breaking, as I knew this was based on a true story, I just couldn't watch. The enemy sought after this small group without mercy and with a vengeance. I could relate. I remembered so many times in my own life where it seemed hour upon hour and day upon day there was no relief from the attack. And while we could all offer our own stories, I want to spend our time today remembering that God knew ahead of time that our battles would be intense. That's why He sent the Holy Spirit. Have you ever wondered why Jesus said it was advantageous that He go away so the Comforter would come? Let's look at this: John 16:7 (AMP) However, I am telling you nothing but the truth when I say it is profitable (good, expedient, advantageous) for you that I go away. Because if I do not go away, the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you [into close fellowship with you]; but if I go away, I will send Him to you [to be in close fellowship with you]. Honestly - Jesus, the lamb of God who made our eternal home secure tells the disciples it is good, expedient and advantageous that He return to Heaven. That always blew me away. Why? Consider this - the man Jesus was limited to ONE BODY and ONE PLACE at a time. He knew the day would come when He would be sacrificed as our provision and He KNEW that the remainder of mankind would for the duration of their lives be under rapid fire. And, to make things worse, the attack would be on mankind and not simply one man. While the man Jesus had his limitations, the Holy Spirit is not limited to one location, one person, or one situation at a time. He is the Counselor to a brother in Egypt, while being a Helper to me in addition to strengthening you ALL at the same time. Come on now - that makes me shout! How about this - the Holy Spirit ALSO doesn't limit how many times He offers His services OR what kind He offers unless we are totally walking in open rebellion. Just as Jesus was given, so was the Holy Spirit given and each with a designated purpose as a gift from our Father who knew we would falter without them. So today and from hence forth, never feel abandoned or that the Holy Spirit doesn't have time for your issues or doesn't really understand where you are. WRONG! He is limitless and is our rapid fire guard. Whew, I love this! PK

January 20, 2014 - "Something New!"

Good morning to you all, Today we start a new week in the first month of a new year. Some of us are on a new journey toward health and have set some new, challenging goals. I like the word "new" A LOT. I am one of those who tire of things easily and LOVE the fact that every twenty-four hours I get to start over...every 12 months I start over...I love new recipes and new information that help me be the BEST me I can. How about you? Now I realize that nothing feels as good as a pair of OLD sneakers and OLD sweat pants, because the new sneakers cause blisters, but to every season there is a NEW. Can I say again I am grateful for that? There were seasons in my life where I didn't always make wise choices - maybe you can identify - but my bad choices never stopped the beginning of a new day. The only problem with starting a new day was at some point I had to come to the realization that simply starting over - a new day - didn't change the consequences of my bad choices. Unfortunately. But when God makes things new, when God makes a path, when God declares He's doing a new thing, that's something special. I read the passage below over the weekend and felt to share it with you as a means of encouragement. I really want to emphasize the portion that admonishes us to "forget about what's happened; don't keep going over old history." God always makes a way doesn't He? Sometimes we need to remember that He creates new paths and new adventures for those He loves and created for Himself. That is such an amazing thought as we begin the week. Is there something you need to release in order that you can accept this truth? As you read this passage, let's be alert and be present. I plan to! PK Isaiah 43: 16-21 (MSG) 16-21 This is what God says, the God who builds a road right through the ocean, who carves a path through pounding waves, The God who summons horses and chariots and armies— they lie down and then can’t get up; they’re snuffed out like so many candles: “Forget about what’s happened; don’t keep going over old history. Be alert, be present. I’m about to do something brand-new. It’s bursting out! Don’t you see it? There it is! I’m making a road through the desert, rivers in the badlands. Wild animals will say ‘Thank you!’ —the coyotes and the buzzards— Because I provided water in the desert, rivers through the sun-baked earth, Drinking water for the people I chose, the people I made especially for myself, a people custom-made to praise me.

January 17, 2014 - "Goliath Who, Pt. 2"

Fridays are awesome - are they not? Hopefully you have had an incredible week and enjoyed the teaching from yesterday. God is really fleshing that out in my life right now. It seems that just when I feel all the variables are aligned well and the world is smiling, trouble arrives and walks though my door OR confronts my faith on the battlefield. Ever had that happen? Sometimes it's easy to begin to whine and question one's own sanity and direction as the army of Israel did. But David had the courage to stand - believe and God gave him the victory as the older, more seasoned warriors watched from the sidelines. Can you imagine how they felt? Confidence in God is not based on maturity - it's based on belief...trust...un-wavering assurance. The situation with David and Goliath could seem like a fairy tale, but many of us are confronted daily with issues and troubles that seem 10 feet tall. I am! Remember, God's best plan and path for your life is never going to be obstacle free. The Bible says in Psalm 34:19: New International Version The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all. New Living Translation The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time. English Standard Version Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all. Now I don't know about you but I LIKE the second half of that verse. It's the first part that makes me cringe. But you know what? Without troubles there would be no need for rescuing. Right? Without suffering, we would never know compassion. Without affliction, we might never cry out to God. My Bible college students and I were working through Psalm 107 today and every time those wandering in dry places who were thirsty and hungry cried out to God - He rescued them. When they were imprisoned and cried out to God - He rescued them. We see this as a Biblical pattern through the journey of God's Word. One of my Spiritual Fathers called the Bible once a Book of Storms. How true! But those storms all ended. My heart for you today is to ready Psalm 107 and cry out to God if you find yourself in any of those situations and then stand and watch the God who loves you BEST rescue you. If you don't get rescued today - keep crying out. God is moved by the prayers and petitions of the righteous. Have a great weekend. Coffee on Monday? PK

January 16, 2014 - "Goliath Who?"

This morning let's discuss a story with which so many of us are familiar - David and Goliath. Now many of us are aware of the basis of the story from 1 Samuel 17. The Philistines and Saul's army are approaching a battle but somehow the men serving Saul have forgotten that they serve in the army of the Lord also. Goliath, who is over nine feet tall - almost 10 - has a serious pride issue and is confident that he alone will secure the victory for his people. The Bible records that for 40 days, once in the morning and once in the evening, he comes to mock Saul's army and their God. Goliath was like E. F. Hutton - when he spoke - EVERYONE listened. Saul and his men trembled in fear. Then, the shepherd boy David enters the story. David has not the height nor the stature, physically, to defeat Goliath. What he has is CONFIDENCE in his God who is the giant slayer. Come on now somebody. David never blinked, never retreated, never made excuses. As soon as he heard the taunting, his spirit locked on the problem and he remembered times past where God had been faithful to rescue and deliver. David was not overtaken by what his eyes and ears heard and saw, he was confident in what God had done! He reminded Saul that God has delivered him from the lion and the bear and that God WOULD RESCUE him again. Although Saul tried to fit the young man with his armor (remember he is TOO afraid to wear it himself), David knew that these weapons were not what God had given him for this situation. I want to bring this into our prayer lives as we stand and declare victory over our issues. Recently, I have had to battle in an area of my life and was discouraged. I tried to go back to "an old weapon" and was frustrated when it seemed ineffective. I felt the Lord showed me a real key when we are standing toe-to-toe with any Goliath in our path to victory. We cannot use the same spiritual weapon for every battle - there's not a recipe. David was not big enough to kill Goliath with a sword. He needed a different weapon and God provided the exact one which would bring the giant down. Here's what I want to pass along. Sometimes when we are waring against our issues, we want to use the weapon of someone else (David tried on Saul's) or we want to use the past formula (bring the armies, draw a battle line and engage). But, in my own life and situation, I had to listen carefully and God began to map out in the scripture the exact weapon for this situation - the exact truth needed to confront and defeat the lie. I felt the Lord shared with me that not every weapon works in every situation. The Holy Spirit knows and God's Word has the key. Let me encourage you to spend time asking the Lord about the weapon needed and then ask the Holy Spirit (who guides us into all truth) to bring you to that truth in His Word that overcomes your issue. That, my friends, becomes an effective weapon. Does it require something from us - yes. But I have begun to see the fruit of my time to study, fashion, and use this new weapon specifically shaped for this issue. Let's unpack more truth from this story tomorrow. Today - what stands in your life and mocks God? If nothing - pray for those of us who are on the battle lines and help serve as our prayer shield. If you need a weapon of choice - pray and study! Have a great Thursday, PK

January 15, 2014 - "The External Affects The Internal"

Good morning and might I say I am happy to be at mid-week. How about you? Several times yesterday I had the concept of seeds in apples come to my heart. Strange, huh? But as I have meditated on that and done some research, I have a few thoughts this morning. When we experience salvation, one of the gifts we receive comes in the form of the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5 gives us some insight into the character issues deposited within us as the Holy Spirit comes to abide and dwell. Most of us know these as the "fruits of the Spirit"... 22-23 "But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely." (MSG) In my research last night I found this nugget, "The number of seeds depends on the variety of apple you have. While there are five seed-containing sections (carpels) in all apples, an apple may produce anywhere from 0-20 plus seeds. Is not just genetics, but how well the growing season went also affects the number of seeds. For some varieties, size matters! A red delicious apple that is small almost always has fewer seeds than a red delicious that is large (Fancy Grade). The small apple has fewer resources to sustain seed development." Let's look at this: 1. Five carpels in the apple - seed containing pockets - says GRACE as the number 5 is the number of grace - God's divine enablement. Each apple has the same number of pockets, but not the same number of seeds. We desperately need the Spirit of God to help us, give us grace, so we can see Godly characteristics developed fully in our lives that represent God's presence within us well. If you love exuberantly - I am almost certain that when others see this "fruit" they see something different - they see God's grace in action. 2. The number of seeds is affected by the growing season (issues of life). While each of us has the potential to see the fruit of the Spirit developed fully - equally - our circumstances can effect how mature these character traits are. I really feel each of us is like a farmer who has the responsibility of maximizing the growth potential for all the fruits of the Spirit within us. As mentioned above, we cannot blame seed development on genetics. We cannot declare that we are selfish because our parents were selfish or angry because our parents were angry. Yes, perhaps the field we were raised in experienced these negative influences - and maybe our mature seeds of patience and affection for others will not be AS numerous as someone in a different field - but I believe that prayer changes things! Let's get the seeds of selfishness out and cultivate the seeds of selflessness. 3. Finally, from above, it mentions the smaller apple has fewer resources to sustain seed development. I see this as those who are spending less time with the Father and can become overwhelmed and burdened by the affairs and cares of live. Can I encourage you, start your day reading God's Word or listening to the Word on your laptop, etc (I use Daily Audio Bible in addition to my actual reading of the Bible) as well as talking to God? When we make that commitment, we maximize the growth potential of the fruit of the Spirit. I promise. Fruit grows in orchards for all to see, doesn't it? Fruit starts from seeds, doesn't it? Fruit is effected by the growing season given it, isn't it? But a great farmer WORKS to see those seeds are given the best opportunity to develop well REGARDLESS. Spending time in God's presence could seem like "work" as you commit to a daily time, but the harvest will be so worth it! The nine fruits of the Spirit when operating fully, maturely, make a bold statement to the world and our families. Yes, it does! How about this - I heard someone say once that the greater the number of seeds, the sweeter the fruit. Perhaps the more time we give to the Holy Spirit to develop His seeds and fruit within us, the less time we have for the worldly seed and fruit to develop. So, the more time we spend in God's Word...the more the Holy Spirit reveals and changes...the sweeter our families, co-workers, friends, and neighbors see we are. Just asking? PK

January 14, 2014 - Only One Hour?

As the first month of 2014 is moving towards its mid-point, I am reminded again how quickly life progresses. We just celebrated New Year's Eve and there's Valentine Candy everywhere. One store I was in recently looking for scarves and jackets, had their swimsuits out. Can someone please let me enjoy a holiday for more than a 24 hour segment? I actually stopped and stared at the swimsuits and thought, "no cold, lack of tan body on this girl is standing in front of mirror half dressed!" Really? And isn't it bad enough that 99.9% of everyone commits to starting the new year eating healthy and every isle in the grocery and drug stores have been commissioned to drag us to failure. Or how about this - lodged between the New Year's Day final gorging in preparation for the "health journey" and the Valentine Candy is the Super Bowl with nine million wings, pizza and french fries. I am absolutely confident that whoever was assigned to the creation of the holiday calendar is a food addict, as I was. Time SLOW down! I say frequently, "time waits for no one." How true is that? I was talking with a friend recently and asking her opinion as to why each 365 days pass quicker than the previous 365. Realistically, the same exact amount of hours are present, but in my small mind they don't last as long. Is it just me? This precious person reminded me that when we are young - the span in front of us is quite lengthy. But as we age, the span shortens on the other end and we often feel the years are shorter when it's really our span that's different. When our span shortens, time seems to shorten. But aren't we glad that when we enter Heaven - the vendors can leave the Christmas decorations, the Valentine's candy, the Memorial Day flags and every other hoilday enticement up as we will no longer be marking time? That blesses me! Now, while time waits for no one - neither does choosing great health. I was at a doctor's visit yesterday with one of my grands and the doctor really stressed one hour a day of cardio. I like to work out 4-5 days a week, but then I reward myself for good behavior with no exercise on the others. But this doctor never mentioned "good behavior." So I thought, "where could I come up with an hour a day for cardio?" Well, maybe I won't watch Hallmark movies some evenings before turning in...or maybe I could do 30 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes at night? Not sure...and I am not feeling condemned because I don't do that. Please hear me - I know that we are busy. However, we won't be busy long if our bodies are not healthy and strong. I know that exercise alone can't bring great health, but without it our options are limited as well. So today, let's all purpose to get in at least 30 minutes cardio (as the doctor said it was the minimum) and work towards the maximum. We got this! PK

January 13, 2014 - "Here Comes The Bride"

Time to begin another week. I am up early with some grandma responsibilities in front of me, but standing and believing for healing at 5am to be freed from a head cold on top of grandma duty is tough. Any natural suggestions to unclog my head and relieve the itchy throat which leads to "barking?" Anyway, I am glad to begin my week having my coffee with you. Here's you morning party favor: if you have not heard the song "Lifeline" from the Hillsong Young and Free album you should visit i Tunes today. The words and vibe are "youthy" but speak DEEPLY to my life. Let me know what you think. I have been to two different weddings the first 2 weekends of this year. My daughter and I have an events company and were delighted to host one of the events while last weekend, we simply went to show our love to the precious couple. There were many cool elements to both - some serious and thought provoking while others were light-hearted and funny. (but how many of you know that laughter is good?) Yes, there's all the pomp and circumstance and months of preparation, but this past weekend I had a refresher course in the power of seeing a groom's face as he lifted his head to see his bride. Time stood still..... "Will you all rise for the entrance of the Bride," means that everyone turns to see this picture of perfection who has made herself ready to meet the bridegroom. I love to stare as everyone else, but Saturday my eyes were drawn from the majestic bride to the reaction of the bridegroom. Help me. I could see him wiping tears and covering his eyes as he connected with this woman he would spend the rest of his life with. What a pure and perfect picture, in my mind, of God's journey with His creation as the Bride of Christ. When the Bible speaks of all the angels rejoicing when one is saved, I wonder if that could represent the engagement phase of the journey. Salvation means we said YES to God and YES to being the bride of Christ. Powerful! Then there is the phase of preparation as the bride makes herself ready seated right within the circumstances of life. Sometimes this feels impossible. However, we must constantly revisit the truth that this life is only a momentary event compared to the paradise that God, the bridegroom, has prepared for us. We look beyond the horizon of this life. We are informed in Revelation 22:17 that the bride is the church, the true Christians (AMP) and she waits expectantly for the bridegroom. In Revelation 19:7 we read, "Let us rejoice and shout for joy [exulting and triumphant]! Let us celebrate and ascribe to Him glory and honor, for the marriage of the Lamb [at last] has come, and His bride has prepared herself." That's where the church finds herself today, isn't it? (we'll talk more about that) But I want to simply ask you to consider today that when God even thinks of spending all eternity with you, with me, the tears well in His eyes and an expression none of us has ever seen emerges. That's His BEST plan. We are preparing to meet Him. But I tell you, with all that is within me, I absolutely believe that no mortal can conceive God's reaction as we enter eternity and His plans for the wedding begin. Let all Heaven rejoice! I hope that word picture causes you to stop and praise Him this Monday morning as you see yourself in that celebration. Coffee tomorrow? PK

January 10, 2014 - My Smile Passages

Good morning and happy Friday. I am excited to have some down time for the next couple of days. 2013 ended with a fury and 2014 started that way, so I am intentionally pulling down the throttle. I am completing this round of edits on my devotional cookbook and hopefully it will be ready for distribution by mid spring. YEA! I tell you, sometimes I cannot believe this is happening. I have given this project and my travel schedule to the Lord and am waiting for my following set of instructions. Thanks for your kind words and prayers. "I'm available, God!" This morning, as you are well aware, our coffee time this week has been centered around having the truth from God's Word encourage our soul. There are many people who can speak into my life during times when I need to be steadied. How about you? But NOTHING stabilizes my soul like the power and truth that comes from reading the Bible. Sometimes people feel they cannot connect with certain facets of God's character and what they fail to do is view the entire Bible and see Who God really is. We can never make God be who we need - He is who HE IS. Yes, there are passages that seem scary or firm, but the Word is filled with redemption and God's desire to include us in His plan. It's not His intention to keep us in the dark or uninformed. Why? T his often breeds fear. But God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and love, and a sound mind. Then He included this truth in His Word so that those of us, like me, who are visual learners could read and re-read to reconnect with that truth when the storms of life try to grab our peace. The following passage is one of my smile passages. Do you have those? There are certain verses that cause me to lift my head, hands, and heart and say again, "thank you, Father God." If you simply read 1-3 perhaps you might be fearful. But that picture is God giving a glimpse into the eternal plan IN ORDER THAT we are NOT in fear. But my smile passage comes in verses 4-11. Can you actually read that and not smile? God is declaring who we are and promising that when the world is suffering, we will be drawn to His side. LOVE that! Be encouraged as this week ends to find your smile passages and write them out for those times when you need to stand firm then. Let's have coffee Monday. PK 1 Thessalonians 5 (NIV) The Day of the Lord 1 Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, 2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 4 But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. 5 You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. 6 So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. 8 But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. 9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. 10 He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

January 9, 2014 - "The Mountain of Joy"

We spoke tonight in our Bible study about hearing God speak. In the days of the Old Testament, God spoke in unique ways and through his chosen prophets. In the New Testament days, He chose to speak through the Spirit of His son, Jesus. Following the encounter on the Day of Pentecost, God now speaks through the Holy Spirit in various manners: the Bible, circumstances, prayer, and His church. I am still amazed that the one who spoke the universe into existence desires to speak to me - daily. How about you? But he does. God speaks to His creation to share His plans and purpose and to invite us into a love relationship with Him. The deeper that love relationship, the more we hear and understand our heavenly father. Henry Blackaby, author of Experiencing God, writes, "You cannot understand God's Word unless the Spirit of God teaches you. When you read the Word, the Author himself is present to instruct you. Truth is never discovered; truth is revealed. When the Holy Spirit reveals truth to you, He is not leading you to an encounter with God. That is an encounter with God." I LOVE that! As we read the Word of the Lord and understanding and truth enter our hearts and minds and connect with us in such profound ways, we HAVE had an encounter with God. That's cool to me! I wanted to shout tonight, as I connected with the fact that the Holy Spirit revealed something to me this morning and that experience was an encounter with God. Check this out from Hebrews 12: 18-24 (NIV): The Mountain of Fear and the Mountain of Joy 18 You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm; 19 to a trumpet blast or to such a voice speaking words that those who heard it begged that no further word be spoken to them, 20 because they could not bear what was commanded: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned to death.” 21 The sight was so terrifying that Moses said, “I am trembling with fear.” 22 But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, 23 to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, 24 to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. As I began reading this passage I though about how dreadful to encounter the mountain of fear. And while the Old Testament Law seemed unbearable, it sets up the scene for Jesus to come and fulfill the law, as none of us could. Even though vs 18 begins with "you have not come to a mountain," there was still a moment of yikes. HOWEVER, when the words from 22-24 came into my spirit, my heart began to leap and say, "yes, yes I have!" I began to rejoice in my salvation, again. Sometimes we need to pause - - - and remember what mountain we have come to and the majesty of that mountain. And here's the revelation...I didn't do anything to enhance the mountain, deserve the mountain, create the mountain...I simply come. Just as I am. Oh that makes me smile. How about you? Have a great one! PK Hebrews 12: 18-21

January 8, 2014 - "Shouting From Heaven"

As we begin 2014, have you made your new year's resolution(s)? I can't say that I sit and type out things, put them in my journal or paste them on my wall. But I can say that I contemplate the new year and my response to starting over. I do also spend time checking the high points from the previous year. I am always blessed by those who have a firm plan at the beginning of the year. I mean really impressed. My problem was not starting but maintaining my resolutions. What is a resolution anyway? resolution |rezəˈlo͞oSHən| noun 1 a firm decision to do or not to do something. Okay, a firm decision. I can make decisions, but the firm part was always the trap. Maybe just for me. Sometimes our good intentions are not the same as firm decisions, although they sound alike. But how many of you know, they are not! I was reading this morning in Hebrews 12:1 "let us throw off everything that hinders and so easily entangles and run with perseverance the race marked out for us." When we look up the term "throw off" in the Greek, it means to lay aside, cast down and toss away. Those are very deliberate actions. As I studied this, there is the indication of not gently tossing aside in a carefree manner but deliberately and intentionally. I am certain there are issues and behaviors in our lives that we would all gladly TOSS ASIDE. I am certain we intend for them to stay tossed aside. But don't you hate it when THAT issue decides to begin its shenanigans, again, and the next thing you know it's back off the floor and into your life? Most of us can attest to this. The verse reminds us that these issues so EASILY entangle us. I wish that were not true. Nevertheless, it seems to be a truth we must overcome as we run the race marked out for us. I want to conclude today with some encouragement. Sometimes when we start the new year with these good intentions (which we say are our resolutions) we need someone to help keep those bad guys on the floor and away from our resolve. If you return to Hebrews and read the beginning of verse one, it reminds us that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Have you ever considered who that is? Jump up the page one chapter to Hebrews 11 and start writing every name you read. These are they. And, if you examine their stories, I am more than certain that their new year's resolutions were challenged much like ours, but they were listed in the overcomers chapter - The Hall of Faith. And listen, if you read carefully, bad things happened to most of them but they didn't allow those hindrances (you know yours - I know mine) to keep them from the promise. So this year - yes, I have some goals and whatever plans to hinder my resolve to see these manifest in my daily life will be tossed, kicked, wrestled, and stomped to the ground. Then, hopefully if I decide to walk toward these issues and entertain touching them, the great crowd of witnesses that we read about in Hebrews 12:1 will begin to shout from the stadium of Heaven....."girl, stop!" They'll be shouting for you too. Have a great one, PK Hebrews 13: 6

January 7, 2013 - "Blindside"

Galatians 4:7 So you are no longer a bondservant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. I recently re-watched the movie, "Blindside." It was so moving and even though I had seen it a couple of times, the faucet in my eyes would not shut off. Sometimes our faucets need to run to remind us we are human. Yes? Many of you know I am a retired school teacher and watching the various responses from the teachers in the film stirred memories of past student encounters. I was always sobered by the fact that several of the 8th graders I taught were really "on their own" in life. For a mom, that concept grieved me! I do want to be understanding as I know some parents, especially single ones, have to work long and often complicated hours and being at home is not an option but my heart was still touched. No matter how large Michael (the main character in the story) was, he still needed to belong. I cannot comprehend his journey nor the beginning of his life, but he is proof positive that weak beginnings do not always project a failed ending. People can change if given the correct hope and motivation. Without that truth, my life's message is shattered. One major reality I captured from the film was that Michael was brought from the streets into a mansion and treated equally without question even though he was not related to the family nor did they actually have a relationship with him. The mom saw something in Michael and the rest was history. Such love! Another key component that resonated within me was the manner in which the siblings treated Michael. Again, baffling. I could distinctly see a correlation between the story and my relationship to God the Father and Jesus the Son. And, as the movie progressed my praise continued to flow...thank you God for CHOOSING me; thank you God for PROVIDING for me...thank you God for SEEING the best in me. If you haven't seen the movie, you probably feel I am rambling. I would encourage you to watch it as soon as possible, as I KNOW you will be so blessed by the plot. Anyway, as the movie drew to a close I remarked to our friends, "I need to be a foster parent." And then again I was flooded with emotions as I remembered that although I have been adopted into the family of God, I am no longer simply a bondservant; I am an heir. Just as Michael became a son - he also became an heir. Such a picture of God's redemptive work for mankind. Can you see it? Michael lacked nothing and his future was made secure by a family who loved beyond borders. That's God! Remember today if you are feeling isolated and lonely, abandoned or cheated - God LOVED you first and chose you in spite of you - in spite of me. Can you and I be "God-Like in offering life-changing hope to others today?" I promise - someone needs us to give them another chance at life. PK

January 6, 2014 - "Standing In A Group"

Happy Monday morning to you all, Last night we had a great time at Life Group. We weighed in, we had a time of eating and sharing, we started our curriculum for 2014 (Freedom Connections), and then had a powerful time of prayer. Due to the Super Bowl game on February 2nd, our next meeting will be Feb. 9th. We got some new recipes last night - LOVED it! We continued to discuss the importance of accountability in helping each of us stand and maintain our health (Freedom Connection #1: Truth Put Into Action = Freedom). This morning, let's consider a passage from God's word that supports our efforts to be in a healthy life group. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (MSG) 9-10 It’s better to have a partner than go it alone. Share the work, share the wealth. And if one falls down, the other helps, But if there’s no one to help, tough! 11 Two in a bed warm each other. Alone, you shiver all night. 12 By yourself you’re unprotected. With a friend you can face the worst. Can you round up a third? A three-stranded rope isn’t easily snapped. Same passage - different wording: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (CEV) 9 You are better off to have a friend than to be all alone, because then you will get more enjoyment out of what you earn. 10 If you fall, your friend can help you up. But if you fall without having a friend nearby, you are really in trouble. 11 If you sleep alone, you won’t have anyone to keep you warm on a cold night. 12 Someone might be able to beat up one of you, but not both of you. As the saying goes, “A rope made from three strands of cord is hard to break.” Here's what I see in this: 1. There's POWER in the group. When the Word speaks of a great return, we plan on seeing the connection to that truth in February as we weigh-in again and share the testimonies of victory. Knowing we are walking together toward a common goal of fabulous health helps ensure the scales will be friendly at our next gathering. (PS - it's not too late to get in - weigh, record your weight, and bring it in February. We are not sharing WHAT we weigh, just whether we gained, maintained, or lost each month.) 2. I read recently: "Every partnership has three strands: you, those you are partnering with and the common interest that holds the relationship together. Partnership and purpose go hand-in-hand." I can so see this in our verse today. 3. Finally - I love round up a third. How about a fourth? How about a Freedom Connection Group in your city? If you are interested, let me know and I will get you the teaching materials each month and help you get started. So, as we start our week, find someone to connect with and find strength and safety in relationships. And remember, some relationships are eternal! PK

January 3, 2014 - "Let The Umpire Decide"

Good morning. I have heard from several of you who have snow.......I LOVE it! There is something special about the picture snow brings to my heart and mind. I am praying for one good snow here in Georgia this year! Please connect with me if you are coming, and bring a friend, to our Healthy 4 You Life Group on Sunday evening. Excited to open my home. See you at 6. This morning I re-read the 1st and 2nd chapters of Joel and the Lord really clarified some things for me. Sometimes I will feel something in my spirit and then read about it in His word. The 1st chapter is really intense - but the 2nd chapter describes the autumn and spring rains. I am excited to watch and see what the Lord does here. There is a call to repentance before the rains come and I feel this is going forth across the land. I will share more later. But this morning, I want to chat briefly as I drink my coffee from Colossians 3:15. This is one of my favorite characters as the emotions listed become part of a real-life story of taking off and putting on. Let's consider the verse from the AMP: Colossians 3:15 Amplified Bible (AMP) 15 And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always]. I want to draw your attention to the word umpire as it refers to PEACE. Now, maybe you are never tossed around by your emotions. But I am certainly not without fault in this area. I wish that were not true - but it is. So what does an umpire do? They judge and evaluate the events and call them into order. I love that! Have you ever been tossed and bounced around by your emotions? Instead of handing them the moment, stop and ask for the PEACE of God to arise and confront the moment. When we allow God's Spirit to control our thoughts and motives, harmony arrives. At first, there could be a bit of storm as our emotions claw their way to "their desired victory," but I am really determined this year to SLOW down and evaluate more closely situations and my response. I am committed to allow the PEACE of GOD to umpire my daily events and then work desperately on following His commands and decisions. I can argue with the umpire, but if PEACE is allowed to have its place in my day and in my heart, the roller coaster of emotions will become more of a scenic train ride through the beautiful land God has given me. You too. Have a great Friday - we'll talk on Monday, PK

January 2, 2014 - "Producing a Harvest in 2014"

Just a quick reminder that we DO have LIfe Group this Sunday at my house at 6PM. We are starting the new year with a new agenda to life group. Bring a friend and a healthy dish - we have a great time. I am making salad with chicken and apples. YUM! Today, I have been pondering how much we are affected by what we see and don't see. Consider that a farmer plants and does not see for months the fruit of his labor. But in TIME - his efforts do pay off. Noah waited 120 years to see the manifestation of God's word to him. Moses served 40 years in the desert having his character shaped as he and the children of Israel waited. David endured 17 years before he finally became king. Have you ever wondered what would have happened if any of them bailed before the proper harvest time? I have been thinking through things that I sometimes become impatient with or question whether God has changed HIS mind??? God is refocusing me this year. Genesis 8:22 (NIV) reads: “As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer andwinter, day and night will never cease.” Can we break seedtime into 2 components: SEED+TIME = HARVEST. And according to this passage, God's plan never changes. Let's start this year determined to revisit the seed we have planted and look with expectation for the harvest. The spring rains are coming and life will visit the earth again. I feel that so deep within me. Where have you given up on God's promise? God has not changed His mind about you. Start looking for the manifestation of His promises daily. God always honors His word and is not bound by our 24 hour window. See you Sunday evening, PK

January 1, 2104 - A Prayer for the New Year

Good morning fam and Happy New Year. Terry and I are in North Carolina and wow, it is really cold here. I pray your New Year's Eve ended well and today started better. Mine did. Last night I wanted to pray at midnight but found myself smiling for several minutes and simply saying, "thank you." I was moved yesterday at the comments on Facebook where person after person couldn't wait for this year to be over. Actually, I stopped and wondered if they actually make that comment EVERY new year. I was saddened to think that so many times we remember the bad, vividly, and the good vaguely. I paused yesterday and repented for the number of times I had made similar declarations at the close of the year. Yes, we ALL have tough situations - but can you think of a single time when God abandoned you? Left you in a lurch? Proclaimed you were a looser? NO! I spent time yesterday going through the awesome things that had occurred during the past twelve months and to my surprise, the challenges seemed slight in comparison. I made myself a promise, I will not post on Facebook, laugh and proclaim at parties, or flippantly remark, "I can't wait for this wretched year to be over" ever again. For ME, that appears to glorify the challenges and not celebrate the victories - ever so small may they be. For ME, that says, "God, you could have done a better job helping me this year." For ME.... Today, I leave you with this psalm as a prayer as we start another chapter in our journey - the year of open doors. :) Have a great day, PK. Psalm 112 (NLT) 1 Praise the Lord! How joyful are those who fear the Lord and delight in obeying his commands. 2 Their children will be successful everywhere; an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. 3 They themselves will be wealthy, and their good deeds will last forever. 4 Light shines in the darkness for the godly. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. 5 Good comes to those who lend money generously and conduct their business fairly. 6 Such people will not be overcome by evil. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. 7 They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them. 8 They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly. 9 They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor.