What Does the Lord See?

The Lord gave me this message back in March of this year and I wrote it down. The title given to me by the Lord was "What Do I See?", I referring to the Lord, I wrote this as He spoke the words to me. I give God all the glory in each and every message. I write what He lays upon my heart to share with others. This message will be included in another book I am about to start working on. This is what the Lord sees from the beginning when we were sinners to when we gave our hearts to Him. I pray this message encourages you. I refers to our Lord Jesus Christ.
I see a child longing for his or her mom or dad. I see a child looking for love but in all the wrong places. I see a child starving for attention. I see a child battling disease. I see a child crying out for help. I see a child in need. I see a child's heart longing for so much more. I the Lord see it all. I know every thought before you speak it. I know your prayers and I the Lord am listening.
My child do you hear Me as I call out to you? I see your pain, your sorrow, your grief, and your broken heart. My child I am here with you for I have never left your side. Can you hear Me my child? Be still and listen as I am calling you. Silence my child. Listen to my still small voice as I whisper your name. Can you hear Me? Can you hear Me calling your name?
I have a job for you to do. I see you and I am going to restore you. Give it all to me My child. Surrender your heart to Me. I see you My child searching and here I am drawing near to you as you cry out for help.  Now I see a child surrendering their heart to Me and accepting Me as their Lord and Savior. Once what was broken and bruised, what was battered and torn, and what was shattered is now made new. I see a new child one who has faced trial after trial but has endured many battles, some that others know nothing about. I know your inner thoughts, deep dark secrets, the true desires of your heart. I have heard your cries and have answered. My child what I see in you cannot compare to what you can imagine. I see in you a beautiful child of God, My masterpiece. Psalm 139:13-16: "For you created my inmost being, you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." What once was lost is now found. I see a restored soul who endured the healing process. I have beautiful things in store for you, more than you can imagine or fathom! Look upon Me - keep your focus on Me always no matter what lies ahead.
I see a child who has won the fight. I see a child rising up in faith more and more. This child is you my beautiful one. I see a woman of God who rose above the trials, whose faith never wavered. I see a child who never quit no matter what came her way. I see a child who has never stopped believing in the dreams and promises that I the Lord have for her. I see a child who stayed positive despite all the negative the enemy threw her way. I see a child who is truly seeking Me and so desires the things of My heart. I see a child who knows My promises will be fulfilled for her. I see a child who has learned to pray boldly and speak with authority of the Word. I see a child who loves others and often goes without, such a reward you have waiting. I see a child who clings to the promises for she knows her calling will reach many souls for the Lord. I see a child of genuine faith. I see a woman after My own heart. That is you my beautiful one. Now my child you see what I see in you is just the beginning, there is so much more that I see in you than you can imagine.
The time has come my child to step out in faith. Now is the appointed time. I shall open up doors that no man can shut. This will take place suddenly. This is the season of suddenly, signs, wonders, and miracles. Follow my lead for I will show you the path to take. Go as I lead.  I will be speaking to you my child more and more, some during the day, some at night, and some in visions and dreams. Rise up My child for the glory of the Lord rises upon you. Isaiah 60:1 "Arise, shine, for your light has come and the glory of the Lord rises upon you." Many shall see the glory of the Lord upon your face. Be obedient, walk through the door I have for you. I have prepared you for this calling.
I pray this word from the Lord blesses you as much as it did me. This is how the Lord sees each of us.

Forgiveness

 

I would encourage everyone to truly forgive others, not just others but yourself. Sometimes we struggle with forgiving ourselves more than we do with forgiving others. I cannot express how God moved in my life and helped me to truly forgive my ex-husband and my friend. I can call her a friend now; at one time I did feel differently. When everything first happened and I found out the other woman was a friend of mine, it was devastating. Over time though, God moved in amazing ways. I had to be willing and yield to what God was doing. As I began to pray for my ex and my friend, things really began to change within my heart. I forgave my ex and my friend but I still had some things that I had not fully laid down. I fully surrendered it all to God and when I did that, complete healing and total forgiveness had taken place.

I remember when my daughter in love, Rachel had her baby shower and I was aware my friend would be there as well. It was truly amazing. After the baby shower, my friend and I began talking, in fact we talked in the parking lot for over an hour. I told her I loved her and that I had forgiven her and we both hugged one another. In fact when I see her at special events such as my grandson’s birthday or Christmas, we speak to one another and hug one another before leaving. Most people admit that would be hard for them. God changed my heart. I had asked God to help me love more like Him and I know God answered that prayer. God has truly brought joy to my life and it is hard to put into words even now what all God is doing. I feel His glory and presence upon my life and so very thankful and blessed. .

Love holds the key to forgiveness. We must love like Christ. We are to forgive others if we are to be forgiven. God bore our sins on the cross so that we might be saved. When we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior and ask His forgiveness and repent of our sins, we become His child. He forgave us so we must forgive others. Was it hard at first to forgive my friend? Yes it was BUT God had other plans, far greater plans for me. I sought the Lord and it was only through Him that I was able to truly forgive my ex and friend. It took God speaking to my heart many years ago when my dad left my mom for another woman, someone our family knew very well. God spoke to me through His Word, John 19:17-30 where Jesus was crucified on the cross for our sins. He died on the cross for me and when Jesus spoke to me, I just began to weep. Even though I am a child of God, it doesn’t make me any better of a person than the sinner. I had to look at the person with the same love God had for her. I had to remain humble and show love like Christ and God gave me so much grace which I showed my dad and my second mom. I forgave them and that is one reminder of how I was able to truly forgive my ex and friend.

If you find yourself struggling with forgiveness, whether it be yourself or with others, I would encourage you to seek the Lord in prayer. Take time to listen to what He has to say to you. Rest in the Lord and wait upon Him. Write it down, it will help you and encourage you. God has been so gracious to me and I want to show that same grace towards others. As you seek the Lord, listen and obey, it will change you as a person. Allow the love of Christ to shine through you unto others.

Matthew 6:14-15   “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

 

 A Story to Tell, My Testimony

 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13

For this is my testimony, a story to tell. I truly give God all the glory as this is all God given. God gave me this title many years ago during my youth ministry years as a youth pastor’s wife. My story is not how I had planned my life would have gone but God had far greater plans for me. I was married for 26 years and shortly after my mom went on to be with the Lord in 2010, my former spouse left me. He came back and we went through marriage counseling but then months later he left again this time for good and filed for divorce. Within a little over a year, I had lost my mom, my husband and the youth ministry, all of which I was very passionate about. I felt like Job but he went through much worse than I could have ever imagined.

We were youth pastors and when he left he resigned and I was soon experiencing what my mom had gone through. My dad had left my mom after 37 years of marriage and filed for divorce. My mom then came to live with us a few years later until she went on to be with the Lord. She was an incredible woman of faith. She fought the battle of cancer and her faith in God never wavered. I thank God for my mom. She helped me in more ways than she will ever know. When I went through my divorce, I had to totally lean on God. I remember just pressing into His Word and praying for hours and hours. My story is one that sadly is more common now days. See what the enemy meant for bad, God intended for good.

My story is not that different than any other ordinary person. My story is one that God gave me many years ago during my youth ministry years in which I had started a blog and wrote down all the messages God started to give me. It seemed He liked 2 or 3 am, that was the time most of the messages were given to me and I would write them down. I remember one night my friend and I were up at our church for our prayer meeting and after praying we got together and shared what the Lord had given us. He laid 3 things on my heart, one was a scripture from Ezekiel chapters 3 and 33, second was “A Story to Tell,” which I thought was a book, then lastly public speaker which I put a question mark by. As most people know me, I do not like to speak in front of people at all; I tend to get very nervous. I have no problem speaking in front of little kids but it was hard just to speak in the messages God gave me in front of our youth but I did and wow the Holy Spirit moved in an amazing way. Little did I know God’s plans for my life were starting to unfold and He was speaking to me. During the time of my youth ministry years, as God was not only giving me messages but visions through dreams. These visions were taking place. I then realized that the dream God gave me was real. I was having them quite often then they started to settle down. One week I had these dreams for about 3 nights in a row and I thought at the time it was the enemy trying to attack me. I shared the dreams with my husband at the time as they concerned him. The dreams were about him seeing someone else, the next night it was about him resigning as youth pastor and him leaving me the first time, then the third night was him leaving me and filing for divorce and me finding out that he was having an affair. God even gave me the person and her younger daughter in the dream but at the time I didn’t piece that part together. A year and a half later when things started happening, I began to realize the dreams were warning dreams from the Lord. When he left me and resigned then came back didn’t think much of the dream until he left me the last time and filed for divorce then the dreams came back to me very vividly. When I found out about the affair and who it was well the dreams were dead on. God gave me the dreams in the order that it all happened. I now realize it was not the enemy attacking me but God giving me these dreams as a warning.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” Ephesians 6:12.

The hardest part of the divorce for me was the fact that this was taking place when my son was getting married in April of 2012.  God had blessed us with a son and a daughter, truly blessings from the Lord. He also answered this mom’s prayer for godly spouses and so very thankful to God for them. I have been blessed with a beautiful daughter in love and their handsome precious son, my grandson Malakai, whom has brought such joy to our family, truly a blessing from the Lord and my amazing son in law, truly a blessing and a man of God. God has blessed our family more than I could imagine, He has given us a very blessed extended family and very thankful to God for that. I give Him all the praises because He so deserving of it.

I look back on my life and think of where I was at one time in my life and thank God He spared my life and gave me chance after chance. He never let go of me and I know that because I always felt this tugging at my heart especially after the kids were born I knew I needed to get back in church and I wanted our kids to be brought up in a Christian home. I wanted them to know the Lord like I did when I was a little girl. When the kids were toddlers we enrolled them in a Christian preschool which the directors started witnessing to us and asked us to come visit and so we did. It took a good year before we did so and that first visit we both loved it. We went back and I gave my heart to the Lord, my ex-husband gave his life to the Lord months later right at the beginning of the new year. It was amazing and from then on our lives were changed. God moved in so many ways and began to use us. We started working with the youth. God led us to a new church in a town right by where we lived and we got involved in that church. I was a Missionette teacher and we also were just starting to get involved in the youth ministry but God had other plans for us. My former husband had this job opportunity come up in St. Louis, close to where his dad lived and it was very timely as his dad was diagnosed with cancer and was in the last stages so was not given much time to live. After much prayer, we both heard from the Lord and it was yes for him to take the job and we were to move. God would provide the home and He did just that all in one weekend when we went house hunting. Amazing how things fall into place when you rely on God and leave it all in His hands and truly trust Him. He had this all planned out from the very beginning. It was hard on my son who was in middle school at the time and was also 12 years old and not to mention was a little on the quiet side. He was not happy to hear the news as he was leaving all his friends that he grew up with. My daughter was the more outgoing one and very sociable so I wasn’t too worried about her because she made friends very easily. She had no problem with the news, it was hard for her to leave her friends but she knew we had prayed about this. God led us to find a church fairly quickly and then we got involved. I was involved as a girls Missionettes teacher, taught Sunday School for a bit then began to teach Little Kids church on one Sunday a month, then we felt the call to become youth sponsors. We approached our youth pastors and they both prayed and said yes. Then later our youth pastor had approached my ex-husband (my husband at the time) and asked him if he had been called into ministry because God was speaking to him and asking him to approach him about this calling.  My ex-husband did tell him yes that God had started speaking to his heart about this matter and later on he took the steps to get credentialed. As our kids grew, it was our daughter’s last year in youth as my ex-husband was made youth pastor; we had been the interim youth pastors a couple times before being made the official youth pastors for our church which led to many amazing adventures. God truly blessed our youth ministry. During that time we took yearly Mission Trips within our country, did fundraising for Missions Trips and Youth Camps, activities for the kids. We outgrew our room and had to knock out a wall to enlarge the youth room which was awesome. God was moving in our youth group and their lives. I don’t regret those years because lives were changed. 

My daughter then got married and shortly after her marriage, my mom was diagnosed with T-Cell Lymphoma cancer which was a very aggressive type of cancer and she was in the third stage. It was all very devastating to us and Bill was already having trouble with his knee which the doctors were looking at him having a full knee replacement. As time went by the oncologist put her on the highest form after trying one chemo then a test trial which wasn’t working and her cancer was getting bigger but had not yet spread so they put her on the highest chemo for that type which was a very aggressive chemo as well and one she would have to be in the hospital to have for 3 days. I was a substitute teacher during this time which was great because it allowed me to be with mom, take her to treatments and stay at the hospital with her. We made several trips back to hospital as we were told that would happen and it was common. It seemed she would go a week and a half then have to go back to the hospital for another stay for at least 2 or 3 days then we would get to go home. At the end of treatment mom was feeling much better so we were hopeful and had been praying for a miracle from the Lord but later on we would find out news that she only had months to live that the chemo had reduced it but then it grew back and this time much larger and had spread which was not good. My sister was with my mom at the time of the news as I was at youth camp and received the news. I was a mess when I heard the news so it was hard for me to hold it together during worship and our youth camp and my youth group all prayed over me and for my mom. When I got home my mom had wanted to go back to Arkansas to stay and be buried there when the time came as she was only given 2 to 4 weeks to live. We left the next week for Arkansas as my sister drove up and met us half way and I left with my mom and sister as my ex had to work. The kids said their goodbyes as well knowing this may be the last time they saw their grandma alive. Hospice was brought in and shortly afterwards we saw the decline and mom passed went onto be with the Lord on Friday morning, July 2^nd, 2010 in her sleep. My mom had always said that was how she wanted to go and God granted her that desire. She was peaceful with everything. When my mom got the news, she cried but then she accepted that she was going to be with Jesus. She had such faith and strength through it all. That is what helped inspire me when the storms really hit hard. It is hard not having either parent around when trials come and you really are unsure who to talk to. I was blessed with a close friend that God used in an incredible way to minister to me as she had went through a divorce many years prior and very similar to my story but her kids were young at the time. She ministered to me and was there for me during that very difficult time. I look at what God has done for her now and it is truly amazing. God brought an amazing man of God into her life in which they got married and so truly blessed. Praise be to God for all He has done and is continuing to do in our life! Keep praising Him no matter good or bad, He is in control.

I don’t regret what all I went through because God did an amazing work in me in which I am going to share. I give God all the glory for this is all for Him. Without Him I would not be where I am today. I am thankful for the storms in my life because they have made me who I am today. I pray that as I share what God has laid upon my heart to write that this encourages others and motivates others to take that leap of faith as I have done so. My prayer is that this would help save those who are struggling in their marriage or relationship, help those who are single, those who are battling depression, loneliness, and help those who are facing trials in their life. Whatever you are facing may God help use this to meet you where you are in life. God bless you and may God’s peace be with you.

What God has done in my life is truly amazing. I have been blessed that God has placed special people in my life to minister to me and help me to grow. The Holy Spirit is moving in my life in incredible ways and I am truly blessed and thankful for His Holy Presence in my life. May this blessing from the Lord inspire you in your journey in life. Maybe you are experiencing something similar to this or maybe you are going through divorce now, keep the faith and keep seeking God in all of it. He is in control. Keep your focus on the Lord and give Him all your burdens. He has you in the palm of his hand.

 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways submit to him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

“I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2).

“The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore” (Psalm 121:7-8).

 

 A Story to Tell, My Testimony

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13

For this is my testimony, a story to tell. I truly give God all the glory as this is all God given. God gave me this title many years ago during my youth ministry years as a youth pastor’s wife. My story is not how I had planned my life would have gone but God had far greater plans for me. I was married for 26 years and shortly after my mom went on to be with the Lord in 2010, my former spouse left me. He came back and we went through marriage counseling but then months later he left again this time for good and filed for divorce. Within a little over a year, I had lost my mom, my husband and the youth ministry, all of which I was very passionate about. I felt like Job but he went through much worse than I could have ever imagined.

We were youth pastors and when he left he resigned and I was soon experiencing what my mom had gone through. My dad had left my mom after 37 years of marriage and filed for divorce. My mom then came to live with us a few years later until she went on to be with the Lord. She was an incredible woman of faith. She fought the battle of cancer and her faith in God never wavered. I thank God for my mom. She helped me in more ways than she will ever know. When I went through my divorce, I had to totally lean on God. I remember just pressing into His Word and praying for hours and hours. My story is one that sadly is more common now days. See what the enemy meant for bad, God intended for good.

My story is not that different than any other ordinary person. My story is one that God gave me many years ago during my youth ministry years in which I had started a blog and wrote down all the messages God started to give me. It seemed He liked 2 or 3 am, that was the time most of the messages were given to me and I would write them down. I remember one night my friend and I were up at our church for our prayer meeting and after praying we got together and shared what the Lord had given us. He laid 3 things on my heart, one was a scripture from Ezekiel chapters 3 and 33, second was “A Story to Tell,” which I thought was a book, then lastly public speaker which I put a question mark by. As most people know me, I do not like to speak in front of people at all; I tend to get very nervous. I have no problem speaking in front of little kids but it was hard just to speak in the messages God gave me in front of our youth but I did and wow the Holy Spirit moved in an amazing way. Little did I know God’s plans for my life were starting to unfold and He was speaking to me. During the time of my youth ministry years, as God was not only giving me messages but visions through dreams. These visions were taking place. I then realized that the dream God gave me was real. I was having them quite often then they started to settle down. One week I had these dreams for about 3 nights in a row and I thought at the time it was the enemy trying to attack me. I shared the dreams with my husband at the time as they concerned him. The dreams were about him seeing someone else, the next night it was about him resigning as youth pastor and him leaving me the first time, then the third night was him leaving me and filing for divorce and me finding out that he was having an affair. God even gave me the person and her younger daughter in the dream but at the time I didn’t piece that part together. A year and a half later when things started happening, I began to realize the dreams were warning dreams from the Lord. When he left me and resigned then came back didn’t think much of the dream until he left me the last time and filed for divorce then the dreams came back to me very vividly. When I found out about the affair and who it was well the dreams were dead on. God gave me the dreams in the order that it all happened. I now realize it was not the enemy attacking me but God giving me these dreams as a warning.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” Ephesians 6:12.

The hardest part of the divorce for me was the fact that this was taking place when my son was getting married in April of 2012.  God had blessed us with a son and a daughter, truly blessings from the Lord. He also answered this mom’s prayer for godly spouses and so very thankful to God for them. I have been blessed with a beautiful daughter in love and their handsome precious son, my grandson Malakai, whom has brought such joy to our family, truly a blessing from the Lord and my amazing son in law, truly a blessing and a man of God. God has blessed our family more than I could imagine, He has given us a very blessed extended family and very thankful to God for that. I give Him all the praises because He so deserving of it.

I look back on my life and think of where I was at one time in my life and thank God He spared my life and gave me chance after chance. He never let go of me and I know that because I always felt this tugging at my heart especially after the kids were born I knew I needed to get back in church and I wanted our kids to be brought up in a Christian home. I wanted them to know the Lord like I did when I was a little girl. When the kids were toddlers we enrolled them in a Christian preschool which the directors started witnessing to us and asked us to come visit and so we did. It took a good year before we did so and that first visit we both loved it. We went back and I gave my heart to the Lord, my ex-husband gave his life to the Lord months later right at the beginning of the new year. It was amazing and from then on our lives were changed. God moved in so many ways and began to use us. We started working with the youth. God led us to a new church in a town right by where we lived and we got involved in that church. I was a Missionette teacher and we also were just starting to get involved in the youth ministry but God had other plans for us. My former husband had this job opportunity come up in St. Louis, close to where his dad lived and it was very timely as his dad was diagnosed with cancer and was in the last stages so was not given much time to live. After much prayer, we both heard from the Lord and it was yes for him to take the job and we were to move. God would provide the home and He did just that all in one weekend when we went house hunting. Amazing how things fall into place when you rely on God and leave it all in His hands and truly trust Him. He had this all planned out from the very beginning. It was hard on my son who was in middle school at the time and was also 12 years old and not to mention was a little on the quiet side. He was not happy to hear the news as he was leaving all his friends that he grew up with. My daughter was the more outgoing one and very sociable so I wasn’t too worried about her because she made friends very easily. She had no problem with the news, it was hard for her to leave her friends but she knew we had prayed about this. God led us to find a church fairly quickly and then we got involved. I was involved as a girls Missionettes teacher, taught Sunday School for a bit then began to teach Little Kids church on one Sunday a month, then we felt the call to become youth sponsors. We approached our youth pastors and they both prayed and said yes. Then later our youth pastor had approached my ex-husband (my husband at the time) and asked him if he had been called into ministry because God was speaking to him and asking him to approach him about this calling.  My ex-husband did tell him yes that God had started speaking to his heart about this matter and later on he took the steps to get credentialed. As our kids grew, it was our daughter’s last year in youth as my ex-husband was made youth pastor; we had been the interim youth pastors a couple times before being made the official youth pastors for our church which led to many amazing adventures. God truly blessed our youth ministry. During that time we took yearly Mission Trips within our country, did fundraising for Missions Trips and Youth Camps, activities for the kids. We outgrew our room and had to knock out a wall to enlarge the youth room which was awesome. God was moving in our youth group and their lives. I don’t regret those years because lives were changed. 

My daughter then got married and shortly after her marriage, my mom was diagnosed with T-Cell Lymphoma cancer which was a very aggressive type of cancer and she was in the third stage. It was all very devastating to us and Bill was already having trouble with his knee which the doctors were looking at him having a full knee replacement. As time went by the oncologist put her on the highest form after trying one chemo then a test trial which wasn’t working and her cancer was getting bigger but had not yet spread so they put her on the highest chemo for that type which was a very aggressive chemo as well and one she would have to be in the hospital to have for 3 days. I was a substitute teacher during this time which was great because it allowed me to be with mom, take her to treatments and stay at the hospital with her. We made several trips back to hospital as we were told that would happen and it was common. It seemed she would go a week and a half then have to go back to the hospital for another stay for at least 2 or 3 days then we would get to go home. At the end of treatment mom was feeling much better so we were hopeful and had been praying for a miracle from the Lord but later on we would find out news that she only had months to live that the chemo had reduced it but then it grew back and this time much larger and had spread which was not good. My sister was with my mom at the time of the news as I was at youth camp and received the news. I was a mess when I heard the news so it was hard for me to hold it together during worship and our youth camp and my youth group all prayed over me and for my mom. When I got home my mom had wanted to go back to Arkansas to stay and be buried there when the time came as she was only given 2 to 4 weeks to live. We left the next week for Arkansas as my sister drove up and met us half way and I left with my mom and sister as my ex had to work. The kids said their goodbyes as well knowing this may be the last time they saw their grandma alive. Hospice was brought in and shortly afterwards we saw the decline and mom passed went onto be with the Lord on Friday morning, July 2^nd, 2010 in her sleep. My mom had always said that was how she wanted to go and God granted her that desire. She was peaceful with everything. When my mom got the news, she cried but then she accepted that she was going to be with Jesus. She had such faith and strength through it all. That is what helped inspire me when the storms really hit hard. It is hard not having either parent around when trials come and you really are unsure who to talk to. I was blessed with a close friend that God used in an incredible way to minister to me as she had went through a divorce many years prior and very similar to my story but her kids were young at the time. She ministered to me and was there for me during that very difficult time. I look at what God has done for her now and it is truly amazing. God brought an amazing man of God into her life in which they got married and so truly blessed. Praise be to God for all He has done and is continuing to do in our life! Keep praising Him no matter good or bad, He is in control.

I don’t regret what all I went through because God did an amazing work in me in which I am going to share. I give God all the glory for this is all for Him. Without Him I would not be where I am today. I am thankful for the storms in my life because they have made me who I am today. I pray that as I share what God has laid upon my heart to write that this encourages others and motivates others to take that leap of faith as I have done so. My prayer is that this would help save those who are struggling in their marriage or relationship, help those who are single, those who are battling depression, loneliness, and help those who are facing trials in their life. Whatever you are facing may God help use this to meet you where you are in life. God bless you and may God’s peace be with you.

What God has done in my life is truly amazing. I have been blessed that God has placed special people in my life to minister to me and help me to grow. The Holy Spirit is moving in my life in incredible ways and I am truly blessed and thankful for His Holy Presence in my life. May this blessing from the Lord inspire you in your journey in life. Maybe you are experiencing something similar to this or maybe you are going through divorce now, keep the faith and keep seeking God in all of it. He is in control. Keep your focus on the Lord and give Him all your burdens. He has you in the palm of his hand.

 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways submit to him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

“I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2).

“The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore” (Psalm 121:7-8).

Release

The Lord gave me a prophetic message to share on March 5th and the rest on April 2nd, 2017. I shared this message on FB as a status and in a video as God spoke to me about sharing what He gives me. Since I have released this message which was the Saturday before Easter, there have been confirmations from other prophets. I give God all the glory! It is truly amazing what the Lord is doing!

Isaiah 61:1-2 "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."

Luke 4:18 "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."

There will be a:

Release of Finances - Come in from unexpected places/means.

Release of Healing - Increase of healing, both emotionally and physically.

Release of the Power of God/the Holy Spirit - Increase of signs, wonders, miracles, visions, dreams and supernatural encounters.

Release of Angels - God is releasing His angels upon the earth over His people.

Release of Authority - Increase of people speaking the Word of God with power and authority.

Release of Gifts and Talents - God will move through you in a mighty way, there will be an acceleration.

Release of Salvation/Lost Loved Ones Returning to the Lord.

Release of Homes, Buildings, and Land. The Lord says we should pray but there is to be a release of homes, buildings, and land. Pray!

Release of God's Anointing Upon His People - Increase of God's anointing being poured out upon His people.

Release of God's Promises. We will see more of God's promises being fulfilled.

 Introduction To My Story

God is simply amazing! Little did I know that the messages God was given me to write in my blog would be my own story. God was preparing me ahead of time. I had dreams about my ex-husband leaving me and resigning youth ministry about a year and a half before it happened. I realized that at the time what I thought were bad dreams was God preparing me. As I read over some of my older posts from 2008-2009, I was simply amazed at what God had given me. God gave me "A Story To Tell" one night while I was at a prayer meeting at church and when I got home, I started writing. I now know that over a period of time, God began to lay messages on my heart and I started writing them down and then began a blog. I am blessed much more than I deserve to be. God has healed my heart. I have forgiven my ex-husband and the other woman, a friend of mine. I look back over the years and now see how God has moved in my life and used this experience to help me grow and show me who I truly am in Christ. God is faithful and He has restored my joy over the last year. I very thankful to the Lord for everything in my life!
When you experience storms there is a reason behind every storm, each storm teaches us to grow in our faith. We can choose to turn away from the Lord or grow closer in our walk with the Lord. I chose to grow closer in my walk with the Lord. I am simply amazed at how God has turned my life around. I still face struggles in my life. I am learning to rely on God for He is in control. He knows all things and He will meet my needs and it will be in His perfect timing. He knows the desires of my heart as well. I do believe that God has an even greater purpose for my life. God has healed my heart and for that I am truly thankful. I love my church family and friends, God truly blessed me with some incredibly friends!!! I am truly blessed!!! I hope you take time to read some of my blog posts. These are old posts which lead to my story. I am in the process of putting it all together for a book, my story, my testimony. God uses each in a special way, we just have to get out of our comfort zone and take that giant leap of faith. It is amazing what you will discover when speaking to others. Each of us has a story, we just have to be willing to share it with others and use our story to help others. We all have a ministry and a purpose, allow God to use you. I pray that I can reach others through my story and my testimony. My life is not perfect nor is anyone else's. We all have struggles, it is what we keep our focus on that will help us through it all in the end. I am gong to keep my focus on the Lord and allow Him to use me as He see fits. I pray that He helps me to be a willing vessel each day. I am choosing to focus on Christ and not the circumstances that surround me. God is in control and He has it all figured out. I just have to trust Him and rely on Him completely. Thanking God for everything in my life. The storms in my life are blessings in disguise and thankful for the storms for they have brought me into a much closer relationship with my Lord Jesus Christ. I pray that these articles help you and inspire you in someway to share your story as well. God Bless You!!!

A Story to Tell, All Glory to God

Each of us has a purpose. God designed us for a purpose. We are each unique in our own way. We each have a story, somewhere deep inside us, waiting to come out. If you were to write down each trial and hardship you have been through and then write down how you came through it, there's a story and possibly a witness for someone else. You may have gone through layoffs at work, financial problems, marital problems, divorce, parent’s divorce, death in the family, loss of a child, miscarriage, overcome a drug or alcohol addiction, etc. Simply keep a journal of what you are facing. Then when you have overcome the trial, write it in the journal. It is a good idea to put the date in your journal. You will have the date that the trial took place as well as when you overcame the trial. How did you overcome the trial? Did you persevere? Did you call out to God for help? Many today take God for granted. Some may go to church because it looks good or simply because it is the religious thing to do. Are you really being honest with God? Do you put Him first above all things and everyone? Do you seek Him daily? Do you spend time with Him and in His Word? Do you truly love Him with all your heart, mind and soul? Take a few minutes and think about each question. Remember, be honest with God and answer each one. God chose us and has a plan for each of us. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Too many times, we only call out to Jesus for help when we are in trouble or if we are in need of something. When God has met that need or answered that prayer, we go on with our daily routine. God helps us in each trial because He truly loves us. His desire is that we draw closer to Him. He wants a personal relationship with each of us. Whatever hardship you are facing, remember God is always with you. You are not alone, although at times it may seem like you are. Joshua 1:5 says, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."

Acts 14:22 says, "We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God." Romans 12:12 says, "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."
When you write down how God got you through the hardship, you will truly see how much He loves you and how He answers prayer. Prayer is very effective and powerful. It draws us into a closer relationship with Christ. It works!!! God wants to be first in our life. I encourage you to start your day with God and end your day with God. It is time we start giving God our very best, not our second best. Give Him everything. Take time to draw closer to Him. God brings trials our way so that we may grow and mature. James 1:2-4 says, " Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." If you are facing hardships and trials, read the book of Job (Job went through hard times) and the book of James. The Word of God is true, ALL of it! We must take the time to read and study His Word in order to grow.
I encourage you to keep a journal of your thoughts and prayers. Then look back on them and see how God has worked in your life. The trials in life come so that we may grow in our faith. Be overcomers and persevere so that your faith may grow and you will receive the crown of life in eternity. James 1:12 says, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him."
For everyone has a story to tell, a testimony to share. We must do our part and write it down and be willing to share our story with others. God has commanded us to "Go" and spread the word of Jesus Christ. As you share your story, you will find that others may have similar stories or they may even be going through something similar now.
What a difference you can make in others lives as you share your story and the gospel of Christ. As you share your story, you are sharing with others your testimony of Jesus Christ, "How he came into your life and what all He has done for you." Everyone has a story to tell. Please take a moment and read the following Scriptures. I hope this will encourage you to do what God has called you to do.

Acts 20:24 (Paul speaking)
"I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."

Matthew 7:14
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock."

Matthew 28:19
"Therefore go and make disciples among all nations."

Genesis 26:24
"Don't be afraid for I am with thee."

Thankful for the Storms

I know it has been awhile since I have last written. I have gone through some pretty major storms in my life and wow has God brought me through them. I am so very thankful for the storms in my life. It is through the storms that God was teaching me. It is through the storms that I developed a closer relationship with the Lord; it is through the storms that God taught me true forgiveness, not only for others but to forgive myself as well; it is through the storms that God taught me to truly love others; it is through the storms that God taught me to completely rely on Him; and it is through the storms that God taught me to completely give Him complete control. I had to surrender it all to Him, trust Him, and give Him complete control of the storm in my life. God was shaping me and molding me into the person He so desired me to be. I am still learning to this day!!!
God began speaking to my heart about praying for my ex-husband and the other woman. I had been praying for Bill (my ex) but the other woman was another story. I realized it was the sin they were living in and that just because I had a relationship with the Lord did not make me a better person than them. I had to start praying for them and for their salvation, that my ex would find his way back to the Lord. I started praying blessings over them and as I have done so, a change has begun to take place in my life. God has filled my life with so much joy and happiness and I have a complete peace inside of me. I don't know where I would be in my life had it not been for the Lord. I know the Lord has given me incredible strength that only comes from Him and He has truly blessed my life in ways I could never imagine. Never doubt God, He always there for you, He will never leave you nor forsake you. He is in control. He already knows what is going to take place in your life so trust Him, never give up on Him, keep believing and keep seeking the Lord!
I encourage all those who are facing storms in your own life, whatever it may be whether financial, marital, separation or divorce, loneliness, illness, etc. please look to the Lord in prayer and study His word. God will give you the scriptures you need to strengthen you. Healing will take time but in time you will see the light and the healing process in work in your life. Your joy and happiness will return. Each of us have a choice in life, we can let the problem consume us or define us or we can be perseverers and learn from our problems. We need to start asking God "What can I learn from this problem or storm in my life? What are you trying to teach me Lord?" Every storm has a purpose and a reason in our life, we may not understand why we are going through these storms at the time but in time you will begin to see that God has something far much greater in store for you. Never give up, keep the faith, keep praying persistently, keep persevering!!! My prayer is that God will restore what has been lost or taken away. My prayer is that God would pour out blessings abundantly in your life.
We all have troubles in this world, God's word tells us that there would be trouble in this world. It is what we do with the storms that will determine the outcome. We all have a choice. We can look to God or turn away from God, my prayer is that we look to God in times of trouble for it is then we grow and learn. God is teaching us new things everyday. Miracles begin to happen in our own life! Be thankful for the storms for they are molding you into the person God created you to be. Be thankful for the storms, God is preparing you for something far greater in life! 

Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Romans 8:28
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose."

Philippians 4:13
"I can do everything through him who gives me strength."


God Bless You Alll!!!

Cindy

Moving from Problem to Promise

Adversity tests our faith. Do we really believe that God is in control? Do we recognize that, in ways often beyond our grasp, He causes everything to work together for our good?

Romans 8:28
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

Are we convinced that at just the right moment He will give us all the good things He has promised?
When we collide with the unfairness of life, questions such as "Why me?" "Why now?" or even "Why did God?" testify to our desperate need for answers. We must shift our focus from problem to promise by asking, "What now, God? What can I learn from this situation? What will you reveal about your plan for my future?"

We must surrender it all to God - give it all to Him. He draws us close and whispers, "Don't worry. I am in control."

Marriage

So many marriages are struggling these days and often end up in divorce. An everlasting marriage is what God intended. Since when did marriage become a routine more than a lasting marriage? When did "I do" become irrelevant and just a saying? What makes people give up on their marriage without even considering marriage counseling? I have pondered this many times as I have had friends who have been divorced, have friends going through a divorce as well as myself, many of them whom their spouse had an affair or just chose to leave without even considering marriage counseling. They chose the easy way out, the world's way out. Today's society has made divorce so easy. It is sad that so many don't take their vows serious. Marriage was intended to last. God hates divorce. Malachi 2:16 "I hate divorce," says the Lord God. Mark 10:9 "Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."  1 Corinthians 7:10-11 "To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord):  A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife."
As christians we are to pray for our marriage and ask God  to strengthen our relationship not only with Him but also with each other. We all have struggles and trials, why is it that when we as a couple are faced with trials we tend to give up on each other and take the easy way out? God has already told us that there would be trials and struggles. We have to learn to rely on God and humble ourselves before him. We cannot handle the struggles on our own. It is time we get back to the basics, give it all to God, let Him take control. It is time we SEEK the Lord and GIVE it all to Him. It is important to spend time with the Lord together as a couple, read the Bible, do daily devotions, and pray together. It is also important that you have date nights and discuss things that might be a concern to the other. It is also important to build one another up, compliment one another daily, encourage one another and most important whenever struggles come your way be supportive of one another, get together and pray. Pray about your struggles as husband and wife giving it all to God knowing He has complete control. Pray for an annointing and blessing upon your marriage. Pray for one another daily. If you are in ministry, don't ever put your ministry before your spouse. It is always God first, then your spouse, your family, then your ministry. Even if you are not in ministry and you have a job, don't do this as well. It is important to remember that Christ should be our focus and we should be united as one. Marriage takes work, not only when struggle arise but it should be a daily thing. I am writing this as I have learned from mistakes in my own marriage and noticed signs that our marriage was in trouble. I felt the need to share this. I hope this help saves someone esle's marriage. Divorce should never be mentioned in a marriage. Once mentioned, it is hard to forget.
I am not saying that we should never divorce because I do believe that there are certain circumstances that God would not allow us to keep suffering such as under physical abuse, verbal abuse, and adultery. If you have a spouse that is a devoted Christian and he is willing to attend Christian counseling and is truly sorry for what he has committed then I do believe you should seek God and allow forgiveness and Christian counseling to save your marriage. To avoid all this prayer is the key, praying over one another everyday will help strengthen your marriage. In some cases you may not have a choice if you spouse is the one who chose to leave and file for divorce which is what happened in my case. My spouse filed for divorce so I had no say in the matter. He simply chose another path. I have now forgiven him as well others involved and I must say that praying blessings over them has brought about true peace in my life. Divorce can be ugly and painful at the time but God will bring about healing in your life. God has truly blessed me and used this storm in my life to strengthen me and He has helped me to draw closer to Him. Please know I have been through a divorce and learned from my own mistakes. I am now lifting marriages up in prayer. I hope this helps someone that is struggling in their marriage. May you find your first love, Jesus Christ and may you restore your love in your spouse again. Love is not a feeling, it is an action, a decision!!! May God bless your marriage and for those who are single or have been through a divorced, seek the Lord, wait on His timing, be patient, be encouraged through God's word. God will bring healing to you in time. Praying for marriages!!! Praying for those who are going through a divorce that God would bring comfort, healing, and strength to you!!! Blessings my friends, may God be with you always!!!

Facing the Storms Head On

To all my faithful friends, I must apologize for not writing for so long. It has been a very rough year and to be quite honest I am ready for that good year to follow. I will continue to praise the Lord during this storm for He has always been with me even when it didn't seem like He was there. I may never understand why things happen the way they do but what I do know is that we serve a God of miracles and He can do the impossible! Well if you take a look back at my post back in December titled "Storms of Life" you will see that I explained the marriage problems my husband and I had. My husband had lied so much, definitely not the same man I once knew at all. He had become cold and hard hearted. It saddened me to see my husband like this. He had truly fallen into a life of sin. I do not understand why this has all happened or even why. I don't understand how a man could throw away God, his ministry, his family and his marriage of 26 years. He is truly blinded. I may never understand all of this but I do know a God who has a plan and I put my trust in Him. During all this ordeal over the last year, I have never stopped trusting God nor will I now. I have learned that God never gives you more than you can handle. When he left me again, I was so upset and couldn't believe this was all happening to me again but I serve an AMAZING God. God was there the whole time, He never leaves you nor forsakes you. He gave me the strength I never knew I had to get through this and still providing that strength even now. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
I have learned to rely on the Word of God each day and that scripture has helped me so much during this storm in my life. I am going to continue to praise the Lord in the midst of this storm! I know one day a testimony will come out of all this. This is my story and one day I  hope to be able to help others in a similar situation. Marriages are under attack! We must humble ourselves before God and fall on our face before Him and pray for marriages!!! I am claiming the victory no matter what the outcome may be, Christ is always victorious!!! You just have to keep your eyes on Jesus!!! My focus is on my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and our kids. I have been in prayer for my husband, Bill and our family and the other woman and her family as well. I have found that praying for others before your own needs is very rewarding and God gives you such a joy and peace. There are always others that are going through something similar to what you are going through now. You spend hours and hours in prayer and it is so refreshing. God clears your mind and gives you that incredible peace. I am truly blessed! No matter what the outcome I will continue to PRAISE the Lord, no matter what the outcome I will continue to trust TRUST in God, no matter what the outcome I will continue to PRAY!!! It is when we are at our weakest we become strong. It is not in our own strength but by the grace of God that He gives us that strength. When we truly forgive others then we find peace in our own heart. I can truly say that I have forgiven both my husband and the other woman, trusting will take some time. You have to remember that Christ died on the cross for our sins. A sin is a sin in God's eye whereas we look at sin from a human perspective, we view it as if some sins are worse. We still have to learn to forgive for God's Word tells us that if we do not forgive men of their sins, then our heavenly Father will not forgive your sins (Matthew 6:15).
We must not let bitterness build up for we have to give it all to God, completely surrender it all. God truly prepared me for what was to come and I believe that greater things are ahead no matter what the outcome may be. I know a God who can and will do the IMPOSSIBLE!!! I believe in MIRACLES!!! It takes FAITH!!! Never give up, keep the faith!!! KEEP YOUR FOCUS ON GOD AND NOT THE CIRCUMSTANCES!!! Storms are a part of life and it how God prepares us for what lies ahead. He teaches us to persevere and overcome the obstacles surrounding us. He teaches us to fully put our trust in Him. The storms may keep coming but I am keeping my focus on the Lord!!! Thank you and God Bless!!!

Merry Christmas

To all my followers and friends, I wish you all a very blessed and Merry Christmas!!! Take this time to celebrate Christ birthday remembering He is the reason for the season. God gave us his most precious gift, Jesus Christ. May we take the time to reflect upon our life and ask ourselves these questions, "Are we really giving our very best to Jesus?" "Are we really being obedient to His call upon our life?" "Are we really walking by faith?"  "Are we really being a witness as He has called us to be to others?" I pray many blessings be with each of you this Christmas season and the new year to come. We have to look at each day as a gift from God for He hasn't finished with us yet. He has something for each of us, we just have to listen for His Word. I have been very blessed in my life. I consider everything I have went through to be a blessing from God and a learning experience. I have always said "Something good comes out of something bad." When I was faced with a major storm in my life, I had to stay positive and remember what I always said and really seek the face of God. Jesus has truly blessed me with my family, my friends, my church family and the youth group. Thank you all for the many prayers!!! Thank you to my family and friends for helping us get through such a rough year. Forgive one another and love one another. I say that in all honesty for it is in God's Word and it is so true. No matter what you are going through or what someone may have done to you, forgive them and love them. God has given me a gift and for that I am thankful. Celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and remember that through all the hustle and bustle that He is the reason for the season. May we show the love of Jesus Christ this holiday season not only at Christmas but all year through and the years to come. May we go and light the world with the love of Jesus Christ. I would encourage you to please listen to the song below titled "Where Are the Lines to See Jesus" by Becky Kelley. It is truly a beautiful song and has such an inspiring and beautiful meaning. Hope you enjoy it. Love you all! God Bless! Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!

Blessings to you all,

Cindy

Becky Kelley - Where's the Line to See Jesus - OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Storms of Life

Well I wish I could say that this year has been a great year but that would not be true. Satan has really attacked our family this year so it has been a very rough year for me and my family. My mom went on to be with the Lord July 2nd of this year. She lived with my husband and I for 15 years so needless to say this was very tough on us. I know she is in a much better place but I have to admit the holidays have been tough as we celebrated our first Thanksgiving without her and now celebrating the Christmas holidays without her as well. She loved Christmas, it was always her favorite holiday and I miss her dearly. After her death, Satan attacked our family. My husband and I had been having some marital problems due to finances and other issues. I didn't realize how bad it really was until just a few months ago. My husband resigned as youth pastor effective October 7th and left me on October 8th. We were separated for 2 weeks. We did speak to one another regularly and within a few days he informed me that he did want to save our marriage and was willing to go to marriage counseling. We then set a date for marriage counseling.  Needless to say, during this ordeal, I was shocked and very upset.  It was the hardest thing I have ever had to go through. I don't wish it on anybody nor do I ever hope you have to go through it.  I looked to God, my family and friends during this trial as this happened only 2 months after my mom's passing. Satan was attacking our church, our youth ministry and our family. The youth ministry was our passion. It broke my heart. In a matter of months, I had lost my mom, my husband and my second family, our youth ministry. I knew God had it all under control. I simply had to trust him and give it all to Him. I give thanks to God for helping me through this storm in my life and giving me the strength to get through it. I also give many thanks to my dear friends and family for helping me through that difficult time.  I am truly blessed to have such great friends. After spending many hours in God's Word and praying daily, God performed a miracle. God gave me incredible strength through this storm, strength I never knew I had in me. When you think God has given you too much, He hasn't. It is when you are at your weakest you become strong. God gives you the strength and you are able to persevere. He never gives you more than you can handle, I know this to be TRUE. I prayed day and night for a miracle and God answered that prayer. I received a devotional email through a friend of mine which really helped me during this storm and I prayed it day and night. Prayer works! Prayer is so powerful!!! I wish I could say that after my husband returned for marriage counseling, he reverted back to his old self and the man I no longer knew. In August of 2011 he left me for good and filed for divorce a couple weeks later. What I had suspected and feared was true, he had been having an affair and it was with someone that I knew and was also married as well. I did suspect there was someone else but had no proof. I do know God warned me of this in a dream which He gave me a year prior to my mom's passing. At the time I thought it was just really bad dreams and that the enemy was attacking me. I later found out that the dreams happened precisely in the order God gave them to me and even who the person was and it didn't come back to me completely until it all happened. God warned me of this very thing and was looking after me. He is such a good God. He loves us unconditionally and wants the very best for us. I thank God and give Him all the praises because He helped me through the storms in my life when I felt I had lost all that was most important to me other than my kids.  I would encourage you if you are going through some tough times, maybe even something like this, please keep your eyes focused on God, give it all to Him. He will see you through this storm. Even in your darkest of days, He is always with you. He will speak to you and He will use whomever or whatever to speak to you. I consider myself very blessed. I learned to praise God in the midst of the storms. One night as I was reading Job during this trial, a verse really spoke to my heart and I would like to share it with you. "Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" Job 2:10. That scripture really hit me and I knew God was speaking to me. I praise God for what He is doing in my life. I give God all the glory for seeing me through such a difficult time. I believe you have to look at each storm as a learning experience to help you grow more in your faith. I know this was not of God but of Satan but I also know that in all things God is there. I had to fully rely on God each day. I learned that I had not been doing on a regular basis. It is amazing what God will allow you go through. I consider myself very blessed. You will get through the storms of life, trust God and keep your faith and focus on Him. Don't fall into Satan's temptations or lies, trust God! Keep the faith!!! I pray for all those who are experiencing storms in their life whether it be finances, job, marital problems, or health related, whatever it is I pray God's mercy and grace be upon you this Christmas season. May he blanket you with comfort and peace. I pray for blessings to fall upon you and may He give you the strength to endure it. We serve an AWESOME and AMAZING God!!! Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!! Blessings to you all!

Cindy

A Mother's Love (In Memory of our Mom)

In memory of our mom, Barbara Edwards. She went on to be with the Lord on Friday, July 2nd, 2010 after a year long battle with cancer.  I wrote this story in memory of our mom. I have also included a story from my sister, Cathy. We hope these stories will help all those who have lost a loved one.
A mother's love is as deep as the ocean. Her love never ends. She had seen us cry, laugh, mad, disappointed, and fail her. Even through the failures and disappointments, she never stopped loving us. She helped us along the way, showed us right from wrong, and followed the ways of the Lord. She helped us through many trials and was always there to listen. She made you laugh and was a joy to be around. A mother knows when you are hurting and seems to always know how to mend it. She offers words of encouragement and words of wisdom. Can I sum up a mother's love? No, not really. For what I have experienced, a mother's love is never ending. A mother's love is caring, nurturing, gentle, full of patience and wisdom, compassionate and loving. She had an incredible love that would light up a room and was evident to those she was around. We were truly blessed to have a mom such as her. We are considered blessed. My prayer is that the same legacy will continue. I would like to share a scripture which sums up my mom; it is from Proverbs.
Proverbs 31:25-30
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household... Her children arise and call her blessed... Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
There is a song that is perfect for a situation like this titled "You Wouldn't Cry" by Mandisa This song really spoke to my heart. If you have lost a loved one, I would encourage you to listen to this song. Our mom will always live on within us. She is rejoicing with the Lord and we know she is in a much better place now. She has no more pain, no more suffering, she is cancer free, completely healed! It is not good bye for we know we will see you again, it is more like a "see you later.

I would like to share this story from my sister, Cathy (sentimental and funny).
When I think of the characteristics of my mother, I think of a nurturing, supportive, caring, gentle, loving woman. She loved her family like a true warrior. When she received the news that she was terminal, she cried some, but she accepted the plan that God laid out with peace, rather than with fear. This brought such comfort to the family. She was a remarkable woman, mother, and friend that will be greatly missed.
I remember once that mom gave me this pot to cook with. I had never seen anything like it. I asked if it was a steamer and she said "yes," although later she did not recall telling me that. Anyway, I decided to steam broccoli in this new pot and noticed it had a little screw thing that went on the top, so I screwed it on. I went in the kitchen a few minutes later to check on it and I couldn't open the pot. I had to force it open with all of my strength. When I did, broccoli flew from the floor, literally to the ceiling and the pot flew all the way up and broke the kitchen light fixture and ended up in the sink. After hours of cleaning, I called mom to tell her about this steamer and she said, "Cathy, that's a pressure cooker, I see I shouldn't have given you that!" We made an agreement that she would no longer give me anything unless there was a box and a set of instructions.

If you knew my mom, you would know she was a sweet woman of God. She had accepted the fact that she was terminal and had come to peace with it. I really believe that mom went so quickly and peacefully because she knew we were at peace with it. Everyone spoke about how quickly she declined and they had not seen anyone go so quickly. She was at peace and ready to meet her maker, our Lord Jesus Christ. I told her Thursday that she would soon be singing with the Lord and that she would have an angelic voice. Little did I know that the Lord would call her that next morning. Now she is rejoicing with the Lord and I know one day I will see her again. It is not good bye for we know we will see you again, it is more like a "see you later."



Blessings,
Cindy & Cathy

Mom's Battle With Cancer

I would like to take a moment and share with everyone what has been going on over the last year. I have not been writing lately as my mom has been battling cancer over the last year. The last few months took a turn for the worse. She was diagnosed last June with Non-Hodgkin T-Cell Lymphoma cancer. Her mass was near her bowels around the small intestines. It is a very aggressive type of cancer with only about 30% survival rate. She had went through 3 different chemo treatments, the last one (strongest chemo treatment) appeared to have worked. The mass had gone down from 7 inches to 2.25 inches. Within a month the mass started growing again. Her oncologist was going to start her on a clinical trial which was her last option other than a miracle from God. They had to do more tests before the treatments could be done. After all the tests were done, the scan revealed that the mass had grown from 9 inches to 14.5 inches which meant she could not do the clinical trial for the mass was too big. She was given only weeks to live. We had prayed for God's healing but God had other plans for her. My mom was a fighter and she did cry when she heard the news but she accepted it with grace. My mom was at peace and she knew where she would be going. She wanted to go back to Marion, Arkansas where most of our family is at. We took her back to Arkansas and I stayed that week there for I wanted to be with her during her last few weeks not realizing it would be much shorter. We arrived that Saturday, by Monday my mom was showing signs of deteriorating. She had already stopped eating. When she heard the news, she no longer had the fight in her she once had, she simply gave up. My mom had been a fighter but she knew the time had come and she had no more fight in her, she was simply at peace. She was ready to go home. My sister and I saw my mom during her last few days, we saw the pain and the weakness. She slept most of the day, responsive at times. We had prayed that if God wasn't going to heal her here on earth, please go ahead and take her on home. We couldn't bare to see her in pain anymore. I am very thankful to Hospice for helping out and showing us what to do. We were blessed that our mom didn't suffer too long. Mom received the hospital bed on Tuesday, she was alert somewhat but having weird conversations. That night she spoke about seeing a light, my sister and I knew what she was talking about. We knew the way she was progressing it was going to be a matter of days. Mom slept most of the day on Wednesday and was awake on and off most of the day on Thursday. Then later on Thursday evening, she appeared to be in a comatose state. We could not wake her for anything. We checked on her periodically throughout the night but we had a feeling her time had come. My sister went in to check on her at 5:00am and she was not breathing. We called Hospice and when the nurse got there she confirmed what we thought to be true. Apparently it had just happened shortly before we checked on her for she was still warm but by the time the hospice nurse came mom was getting cold already. My mom went on to be with the Lord on Friday morning, July 2nd; she went peacefully in her sleep. I thank God that He blessed us with a wonderful and godly mom. She didn't suffer as long. Her symptoms didn't appear to get worse until the last two months. She passed within 2 weeks of hearing the news that there was nothing else they could do. The last week was the worse, she really declined during that week in fact within a matter of days. She is completely healed now, rejoicing with the Lord. I know I will see her again when God calls us home. Please take a moment to read the next post as it is in memory of my mom. Hope this helps someone who may have lost a loved one.

Blessings,
Cindy

Love One Another

God gave me this message to speak to our youth back in May and I felt led to share it with you.

1 John 4:20-21:
If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: "Whoever loves God must also love his brother."
For God commanded us to love one another. His Word is very clear on that. Love (loved, loves) is mentioned in the Bible 697 times. Why is it that we struggle with loving one another, especially your own brothers and sisters in Christ? Why do we hate the sinner and in some cases even our own family of believers when we should be showering them with the love of Christ and lifting them up in daily prayer. Why do we speak badly about our own fellow Christians? James 3:9-12 speaks about taming the tongue. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father and curse men. This should not be!!! Are we really showering them with the love of Christ? It is time we stop the games! Just because we have a relationship with Jesus Christ does not make us any better than the other person! Maybe it's time we refocus! 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 says, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keep no record of wrongs."
What have you done lately with your love letter? Have you stepped out in faith and obedience to God's calling? Are you just playing the religious game? Do you really think you are fooling others? NO you are not! You are NOT FOOLING GOD! Jesus in coming, He may be a loving God but He does bring justice. God knows what you are doing and He will not take you to Heaven if you don't repent! (Ezekiel 33:12)
2 Timothy 2:5 "Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules."
God desires you to to love others as he loved you. It is time we start humbling ourselves and realizing that we are not above any other person. It is time we get off the high horse and stop thinking we are all that as a Christian. If you were all that, you would be bringing friends and this youth group would be full! I'm not saying this to hurt you, I'm speaking what God laid upon my heart. If you are harboring any unforgiveness or bitterness you really need to seek the Lord. You have to let it go and give it to the Lord. The longer you harbor bitterness and unforgiveness towards others, the worse it will get. Your spiritual walk with the Lord will be weakened or possibly even ruined by your own selfishness.
Matthew 6:14-15 clearly states "For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."
How many of us have sinned? How many of us have done something stupid in our life that we wish we had a redo button? We have all done something we wish we could take back. We cannot think we are better than that sinner. We cannot think we are any better than our fellow Christians. What does it take for you to get it? God desires us to love one another. If we can't love our own, how can we really love God?
If you are one of those who are saying you are not growing in Christ, you need to ask yourself "Why?" Have you been spending time in God's Word daily? Have you been spending time in prayer with Him on a daily basis? Have you been telling others about Jesus Christ? Have been inviting others to church? What have you done to grow? Ask the Lord "Why?" Have you done anything or are you being complacent? DO NOT blame others when you are not growing due to you not being obedient to God's calling on your life. Do not place the blame on your youth pastor, your youth sponsors or leaders! The blame falls on you! God is simply saying it is time to WAKE UP!!! It is easy to be friends with people we get along with but what about the people we have differences with. What are you doing to grow closer to them? We MUST shower them with love whether they are our enemy or our own brother and sister in Christ. We have to learn humility. We have to learn that we as children of God are called to be witnesses to the lost. We are to be the light of the world. We cannot be ashamed of Him. We cannot fall into that trap. We must go and tell our friends before it is too late. His Word tells us that if we are ashamed of Him for He will be ashamed of us (Mark 8:38).
How many times has Pastor Bill given an altar call for anyone struggling? For anyone who desired to grow closer to Christ? Think about it. Did you go or were you one of those who sat back thinking he's not speaking to me? What are you doing to show love for one another. It is time we put our petty differences aside and forgive one another. It is time to get right with God. It is time to pray for humility and ask God to give you a heart of love for others. What are we waiting for? We should be lifting each other up in daily prayer. WE should always be lifting our youth pastor, youth sponsors, youth leaders, and youth group up in daily prayer. If you love God, you will obey his command, "Love one another." We must be united in brotherly love. Galatians 6:10 says, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." We should all have each others back. Do you understand what love is all about? Jesus Christ is the perfect example of this, He died on the cross for our sins.
John 15:12-13, 17 "Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. This is my command: Love each other."

I would encourage you to listen to "How Can You Say You Love Me?" by G.L.O. (clips from passion of Christ) on YouTube. Pay attention to the words. I played this during youth service at the end right before altar call.

Share the Love of Christ

Don't wait it may be too late. You have to get on fire for God. Lukewarm isn't going to cut it! God said he would spit you out. Revelation 3:15-16  "I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm - neither hot nor cold - I am about to spit you out of my mouth."

Don't think you have another day to live. You don't know if God will take you or not. Don't think you can put talking to someone about God another day. Don't think you can put it off until tomorrow for tomorrow may not come. You may miss out on a chance to be a witness. The person you intended to talk to about God could pass away the next day.
 
Wake up! What does it take to get in God's Word? Why are you ashamed to talk to others about God? Mark 8:38 "If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels." The Word of the Lord clearly states that if you are ashamed of him, He will be ashamed of you. If you care more about what your friends think of you, you may need to think about who is really more important in your life. Is God first above all things? Your true friends will accept you for who you are as a Christian. You should not be ashamed to tell others about the love of Christ. Do you get it? Don't give up! God is bigger; He's bigger than Satan and any lie he's ever told you. Be willing to be used! Be obedient and faithful to God. Be willing to share the love of Christ with others!

Praise Reports

For those who don't know, my mom found out she had cancer in June of last year. It has been a battle over the last several months finding treatments that worked. They put her on an aggressive treatment and it worked. Praise the Lord! She had her last treatment over a month ago, had the scan done a few weeks ago, it showed very little activity. They said it was not enough to be concerned about right now. For now no more chemo treatments. They are monitoring her by checking her blood count, everything appears to be good right now. She goes back in another month for her next appointment, just had one last week. Thank you for all the prayers.
My husband had his "Credential Ceremony" at District Council in Columbia, MO on April 20th. He received his Certified Credential for minister. He is an official youth pastor. Now he will be working on his license. Then the next day he had to have left knee replacement surgery. Everything went great! It is a long recovery. I'm hanging in there. I'm relieved that God allowed some healing for my mom, it would have been really tough to take care of both and hospital visits at the same time. God is in control and He took care of it all. He is our Father, our Healer, our Comforter, our Strength, and our Deliverer, etc. He has pulled us through the storms every step of the way and I'm very thankful for the strength He gave me during this ordeal. We serve an AWESOME God!

Blessings,

Cindy