Thoughts for the Week of Aug. 26

[Pat]

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Morning Devotional...



   

THE SPIRITUAL INDEX

   

"Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?" Matthew 7:9

The illustration of prayer that Our Lord uses here is that of a good child asking for a good thing. We talk about prayer as if God heard us irrespective of the fact of our relationship to Him (cf. Matthew 5:45). Never say it is not God's will to give you what you ask, don't sit down and faint, but find out the reason, turn up the index. Are you rightly related to your wife, to your husband, to your children, to your fellow-students - are you a "good child" there? "0 Lord, I have been irritable and cross, but I do want spiritual blessing." You cannot have it, you will have to do without until you come into the attitude of a good child.

We mistake defiance for devotion; arguing with God for abandonment. We will not look at the index. Have I been asking God to give me money for something I want when there is something I have not paid for? Have I been asking God for liberty while I am withholding it from someone who belongs to me? I have not forgiven someone his trespasses; I have not been kind to him; I have not been living as God's child among my relatives and friends. (v.12.)

I am a child of God only by regeneration, and as a child of God I am good only as I walk in the light. Prayer with most of us is turned into pious platitude, it is a matter of emotion, mystical communion with God. Spiritually we are all good at producing fogs. If we turn up the index, we will see very clearly what is wrong - that friendship, that debt, that temper of mind. It is no use praying unless we are living as children of God. Then, Jesus says - "Everyone that asketh receiveth."

By Oswald Chambers

[Samantha]

Very good devotion. Thanks, I needed that.

Samantha

[Pat]

Thanks Samantha...

A friend and I have been going through the Oswald Chambers, "My Utmosts for His Highest" meditations each day and this one from August 24 really spoke to my heart especially.

Oh that we would all be good children of our Father.  As it says above,  You cannot have it, you will have to do without until you come into the attitude of a good child. 

I pray that this will also be a blessing to all who come in here this week.

[Neil]

That was excellent Pat and like Samantha, i needed that. If i'm honest, at times i can see myself in this article. Asking of things when i know i'm not right with God over an issue.

[Samantha]

 :'(Could y'all pray for me and my family today?  We really need help today.

Thanks,
Samantha

[Janet]

We all struggle with those issues at times; at least I know I do.  Thanks, Pat.

Darrel and I took the PT Cruiser out to the repair shop this morning.  I took photos of the damage.    When I drove down that street the other day, I smelled an awful odor of something dead, so I'm sure the car and I fared better than the deer we hit!

Busy week---tomorrow is Beth's birthday, and we are having a little family-plus-a-few-friends dinner party for her on Saturday.  I have no idea how I will get this house cleaned, as I'm still supposed to not use my right hand, and for sure, I can't run the vacuum.  Darrel's shoulder is still giving trouble, but it is his left, so maybe he will vacuum for me.

See y'all later!

[Janet]

Sure will, Samantha!

[Neil]

Will be praying Samantha

[Larry Hanna]

Hi everyone.  It is overcast and a little cooler today.  There is a chance we will have some showers this afternoon.

Pat and I are going to look a cars this morning.  Our Saturn is becoming very unrealiable in terms of starting.  I got in it this morning when I needed to leave and it wouldn't start.  It has been doing this for quite awhile.  I don't know what we will do but want to see what is possible.  We just spent a significant amount on getting the car in good shape but having a car that won't start when needed is something that is very bothersome.

Janet, if you and Darrel are not able to vacuum I sure wouldn't worry about it.  The folks are coming to celebrate with Beth and not to do a house inspection.  If they aren't that is their problem.

Marilyn, it sounds like you had a wonderful day at church yesterday.

Not much else new here so will sign off.  Pat, thanks for the devotional.

[Marilyn]

Yes Samantha I am praying.

Larry sorry to hear about your car. That is such a bothersome thing.

Janet please don't stress over getting your house clean, as Larry aid they are not doing a home inspection and if they can't understand that you  must do those thing yet than what would be wrong with asking them to help you.

Saturday I was talking to someone from church who needed employment and Fay has been in need of a caregiver for over a month now. So I hooked them up and and both problems are solved. It had to be a God thing because she was at a place where I was calling someone else.

It looks as though the sun may be coming out early today, that will be good for my tomatoes that are trying to ripen.

Gotta go now.

[Etta Sue]

Pat ~ Thank you for the devotion.  We all fall short of being right with God at times.  We all need this devotion to remind us of striving to be right with God. 

Janet ~ You sound like my sister....cleaning before her family comes to a big dinner.  Five minutes after they are there, you can't see the house anyway after they bring all their stuff in.  So don't worry about cleaning...do it AFTER they leave...a little each day!  Plus if you act like you are hurting, they might just help you clean up...

Larry ~ Nope.  Wouldn't like a car that I couldn't depend to start.  Hope you find a good deal for you and Pat.

Marilyn ~ Is that what you call 'killing two birds with one stone'?  Never liked the thought of killing birds but I understand the meaning.

Neil ~ Glad to see you posting. 

Samantha ~ Rest assured, I am praying for you and your family.

The ballgame was hot!  We had to walk about 4 blocks to get to the gate and it was at right field.  Our seats were on the upper level way past third base.  So I got my walking in.  The minister said we were to be in the shade.  Not!  Well, not until about the second inning.  We were in the blaring sun all the time.  I took my visor and that really helped.  The Indianapolis Indians played the Toledo Mud Hens but lost to the Mud Hens 4-1.  But it was fun to be there and with great friends. 

The church was having a pitch-in picnic when we got back to the church but since we didn't have anything to pitch-in, Ivalou and I opted to go to Bob Evans for dinner.  We were both tired probably from the heat. 

Then it was home to relax.  I noticed Ivalou had company last evening.  Bet she wished she could put on her nightie and relax. 

Today, I want to mow again.  The rain really caused the grass to grow and then this evening is a visiting for my niece by marriage's father who passed away last Friday.  He was in the hospital, getting ready to take a shower and go home, when he told his wife, 'I don't think I can do this' and fell to the floor.  Sad.  Now my niece has lost both of her parents. 

SIN NO MORE SIN NO MORE SIN NO MORE SIN NO MORE

[nards656]

Hello, everyone

Samantha, I'm praying for your family.  God bless you.

Bernard

[JudyB]

Good evening here folks!  I am about to figure out what to have for supper, and then to relax and give my arm rest.

Jeannine Yes I am praying for you.

Enjoyed the devotional today Pat.

Need to get off the puter.
Love to all
JudyB

[Marilyn]

Got the results from my labs.  Cholesterol down from 295 to 248 in three months. Hooray!

[Janet]

Darrel had an app't. with his podiatrist today, in Garden City.  His toe is better, but still some infection.  He bought a new laser printer, and I need to go sign up for the $20 rebate.

I am tired and my hand is screaming at me to get off here, so I'd better do that.

[Pat]

Samantha, I'm praying for your request.  Please know that you have friends on here who really believe in prayer.

[Pat]

Let's sing together.

Won't it be wonderful when we all go home to glory?  What a wonderful day that will be!  I'm longing for Glory.  I long to see Jesus. 

Do you?

If you aren't ready for glory, my prayer for you is that you will listen for the Saviour's call and answer and allow Him to do a wonderful work in your life.  Accept Jesus as your Saviour.  Let Him be the captain of your life!  His body was more marred than any man!  Totally unrecognizeable! He died on the cross for you and I, and then rose from the grave.  What a wonderful day when we see Him face to face.

Think of it.  Do you long for this?

Let's sing this together.


.

Just over in the glory land
(Click to hear music)


I've a home prepared where the saints abide
Just over in the glory land
And I long to be by my Saviour's side
Just over in the glory land



Just over in the glory land
I'll join the happy angel band
Just over in the glory land
Just over in the glory land
There with the mighty host I'll stand
Just over in the glory land



I am on my way to those mansions fair
Just over in the glory land
There to sing God's praises and his glory share
Just over in the glory land

Refrain

What a joyful thought that my Lord I'll see
Just over in the glory land
And with kindred saved, there forever be
Just over in the glory land

Refrain

With the blood washed throng I will shout and sing
Just over in the glory land
Glad hosannas to Christ, the Lord and King
Just over in the glory land

Refrain

[Marilyn]

I love that song Pat, Thanks for posting it. I haven't heard it in quite awhile.
The PA at the Doctors office was so please with my numbers, I have another blood draw in December. She said to keep on doing what I am doing.

Gotta go now to a Univera meeting. See you tomorrow.

[Carol]

Looking at your morning temperatures & it finally looks like some are cooling down.  We have been hot for so long and the only time I wore a sweater for the last few months has been at the hockey rink. 

Praying for all who are having needs - medical and otherwise.

Carol

P.S.  I have invited a new friend over for lunch & have to get busy & making quiche and banana bread.

[Pat]

Enjoy your lunch, Carol!

I have lots to do today so I best get busy and start doing it.

[Marilyn]

I am leaving  just a few minutes for work, So I will just say Hi and Bye or now and come back this afternoon to write more.

[Al Moak]

Carol - I think you should send some of the quiche and bananna bread over here!  Can you send it through your browser?

I'm just back on here now - couldn't get into CP earlier.  Thanks Pat.

[JudyB]

Oh Al you are so funny.  Just thinking about banana bread makes me gain weight!!

I had another rough night with my arm.  I slept in a position that aggrevated the problem.   Janet we love you but you nwwd to let that heal. 

We have another beautiful day here, Light cloud cover, but nice an warm.  I just wish it would stay and winter stay away.  The trees are already loosing their bright green, and we are seeing the beginning of yelow and red.  First signs of the coming cold.

I am enjoying listening to Woodrow Crowle on the radio talking about the soverignty of God.   Going to go and listen.


Love and praying for all needs represented here.

[Pat]

I enjoyed the words of this hymn this morning:

Not what these hands have done
(Click to hear music)


Not what these hands have done
Can save this guilty soul;
Not what this toiling flesh has borne
Can make my spirit whole.



Chorus:
Thy work alone, my Saviour,
Can ease this weight of sin;
Thy blood alone, O Lamb of God,
Can give me peace within.



Not what I feel or do
Can give me peace with God;
Nor all my prayers, or sighs, or tears
Can bear my awful load.



Thy love to me, O God,
Not mine, O Lord, to Thee,
Can rid me of this dark unrest,
And set my spirit free.



No other work save Thine,
No meaner blood will do,
No strength, save that which is Divine,
Can bear me safely through.



I praise the God of grace,
I trust His love and might;
He calls me His, I call Him mine,
My God, My joy, my light.

[Al Moak]

That's a truly great hymn, Pat.  The words and music fit together well, which often isn't the case.  And the cademce and progression of the music speak the same message as the words!  Thank you for it.  I think Judy B should read or listen to that hymn right after considering the sovereignty of God.

[Etta Sue]

Good afternoon.  Did anyone rise early to see the eclipse?  I did.  When I got out there the moon was shadowed by about ¾.  When it was completely shadowed, there was some cloud coverage so I came back in the house and went back to bed. 

I put my battery charger on my car at about 9pm last night.  When I went out for the eclipse, it hadn't charged.  I think I didn't have the positive clamp on good.  Then when I went out after eating breakfast, it still wasn't charged.  So I called a friend down the road.  His jumpers wouldn't work right.  So I called Kaye Don and he told us where his Quick Battery Jumper was and Sam and I walked over and got it.  The car started right up.  While driving to Pendleton, I called the Fall Creek Tire place where I get my car maintenance.  They checked the battery and the alternator and all was fine.  If there was a light left on it had to be the dome light...but I am not sure.  Anyway, it started fine at the tire place. at McDonalds and at Kaye Don's when I returned the Jumper. 

Now we will see if it starts when I want to go play Euchre!  Times like this I wish I had a hot line to Jerry....he would have had it running in no time.

At least, everything was free of charge!!  That's a plus!

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

[Janet]

Judy, I can sure relate to arm pain.  My therapist told me the nerves in mine are waking back up, that's why it's so ouchy.  He really helped me this morning.

Etta Sue, glad you got your car started.  Now you can empathize with Larry!  Have fun at Euchere (whatever that is!) 

Busy, busy morning for me!  I had an 8 AM app't for therapy, then a 9:15 Chiropractor visit; then went to get Beth and bring her to the chiro., then since today is her birthday, took her out to lunch.  When I got home, I put ice on my back/shoulder for a while.

I am so mad at me!  I couldn't sleep, so got up around 5 this morning, but FORGOT about the eclipse!    I'm so disappointed, and someone who saw it told me it was clearly visible and beautiful.  Phooey.  I even had it written on my calendar.

Carol, may I drop by for quiche and banana bread?    Sounds good!

I was overjoyed to hear that the Korean Christians have been released from Afghanistan!!!  Thank you, Lord!

[Samantha]

 :)First, THANK YOU -  Everyone who prayed for us yesterday, I thank you from the bottom of my heart!  I don't like to give the devil credit for anything, but he was really attacking us yesterday.  But Praise the Lord, today is a new day!

A lot of what seemed to be BIG problems yesterday have almost completely worked themselves out today.  I could really feel the prayers that were being sent up on our behalf.  What a wonderful group of people all of you are. .

Janet, I hope Beth has a wonderful birthday today, and that your arm continues to improve.  You are too busy of a person to be sidelined for long.

I feel like I will leave someone out if I start naming names, but I hope that everyone has a great day today.

Thanks again,
Samantha

[Liz]

Another nice day here on the island.  I think it is soon about to end with more rain, but at the moment....

Not really in the mood to post and not much to say.  Sort of discouraged at the moment.  That too will pass. 

Samantha, happy that things are better and glad that your faith is strong.  Remember there is a saying:  Prayer doesn't always change things, But prayer changes us for things. 

Read a little blurb that stuck, so here it is:

Wherever God erects a house of prayer,
The Devil always builds a chapel there;
And 'twill be found, upon examination,
The latter has the largest congregation.

Let's hope that one is wrong

Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Liz

[Marilyn]

Good Morning. Where are all the other from the other time zones. There are usually at least 2-3 before I get here if I wait until this time.

Nothing new here, Went to a Chocolate meeting last night and got a lot of new information.

The sun is out early today and wasn't that moon fantastic last night.

OK That's all folks C U L8er