Christian Photographers Community

Morning Devotional...


GOD'S PLAN
Ephesians 2:1-22 NIV

As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath.

But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called "uncircumcised" by those who call themselves "the circumcision" (that done in the body by the hands of men)--remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.

For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
When have you recently reminded yourself and God that you want your life to be used for his purposes?  We become Christians through God's unmerited grace, not as the result of any effort, ability, intelligent choice, or act of service on our part.  However, out of gratitude for this free gift, we will seek to help and serve others with kindness, love, and gentleness, and not merely to please ourselves.  While no action or work we do can help us obtain salvation, God's intention is that our salvation will result in acts of service.  We are saved not merely for our own benefit but to serve Christ and build up the church.
The Best of the Bible--365 Must-Read Bible Passages[/i]

Aha!  I just figured out what happens when you try to post a message when the topic is being locked!

Anyway - I thought the link to "the death of the VCR" was funny.  Mine has been dead for a while, so much so that today, when our oldest daughter called from Ottawa wanting us to tape something for her tomorrow morning, we had to inform her that sadly we would not be able to do that, as the machine is now officialy defunct.

On a related note, I wish all electronics would go wireless.  Wireless is so cool!

Also, have you guys seen the new LED Christmas lights?  They are cold to the touch (always), their estimated lasting time is 200,000 hours (that's incredible!) and they use very, very little electricity.  As far as I know they haven't been able so far to use the technology for regular lighting, but I'm sure that will happen soon.  A friend of ours was talking to an engineer that works in LED technology research, and he tells us that they think in the future light might be built directly into houses, as changing light bulbs will not be an issue anymore.  But the best part is the low energy consumption!  Can you imagine how much energy would be saved if we went to very high efficiency lighting?  WOW!  I love that.

Anyway - good night/good morning everyone!

Ursula

Sorry, Ursula! 

I will post before reclining for the night since I have an early doctor appointment. 

I am tired.  I make calendars for the family and I printed them out today.  I have magnetic holders for them and you put them on your fridge.  I have done this for years and the family counts on them from me. 

I also made a cute Christmas Card for the people in our Small Group at church.  I took pictures of each of them last month.  I put a PSP Christmas tree on the front, then found transparent ornaments, then cropped each picture in eclipse and put them on the ornaments.  I thought it came out very good!  I printed them out and they are in envelopes ready to mail snail-mail. 

So I had better let the cat back in and go beddy-bye!

<)))><<~~<)))><<~~<)))><<~~<)))><<~~<)))
"Confidence is what you have when you don't really understand the situation."

Ursula, I've seen those lights.  Canadian Tire are selling them and they aren't expensive either.  I may get a strand of them for my tree out front.

Thanks Etta Sue for opening up the New Every Morning again.  I'll read it in a little while.  I'm still working on my Avon order.

Etta Sue......thank you for the wonderful devotional.  Wow.....you are busy with all of your Christmas things.  Clever lady.  That's an idea for me...maybe make calendars for family members.  You've given me a start anyway.

Pat....thank you for the lovely music.  Sweet Hour Of Prayer is so precious to me.  I remember when the Lord first saved me, the only songs I knew were ones I'd heard my Texas relatives (we're a big family)sing sitting on the front porch, the boys playing guitar, my grandad playing harmonica.  Sweet Hour Of Prayer is just one of the old hymns they sang.  I wasn't a Christian then, and all it meant to me was old family songs.  When I met Jesus......it became dearer than my heart and so alive with meaning.

My stove is working again!  It's warm tonight.  I had to pay $158.50 to have it cleaned out , and a filter for the oil drum.  For some strange reason there's never been a filter on it.  I don't know why  my husband never did that....but he didn't.  When he (the repairman) disconnected the line, gunk came out. ugh!  No wonder it was shutting down...no fuel.   I'm all warm and cozy tonight.

Soni......sorry, but I couldn't resist "borrowing" one of your cute gifs in your post.  So cute.

I LIKE my vcr!  I'm not ready for it to be outdated.  I have lots of family stuff on tape.  So far mine is working, and I'm not going to breathe a word of this rumor around it.  In fact, it isn't very old.  I think things are moving toooo fast.  BUT....I would like some of the led lights.   Never seen them, but they sound pretty.  I hope they last longer than my led monitor....but that's another story. lol

All the devotionals and thoughts have made my day's ending beautiful.    Thank you so much for being you, and doing what you do.  It always seems to be just the right word to stir my heart and settle it at the same time.  Bless you, bless you, bless you.

Beth, you'll hear from your mom soon.  Being housebound makes you really appreciate the great outdoors, huh?    

Welcome to Christian Photographers Thedimlers.  Just jump right in and let us get to know you.  It's always so nice when new people come in.                 love, Nita

Helllooooooooo

I got home about 5:30 p.m.(Monday) and have been rather busy since then. 

The trip was fine ... I stopped in Portland on Tuesday night and then went on into Spokane on Wednesday after transferring my passengers to another car in Umitilla, Oregon.  True to our quirky tradition ... it DID snow over night Friday and into Saturday, and the girls were happy.  You see....it seems "Grandma always brings the snow" for them!  It was about an inch and lasted most of the weekend, but Monday was clear and cold and....dry!!   When I arrived home I found it to be rather chilly here!

We had a nice time -- my daughter, granddaughters and I -- but, as usual, I am glad to get home where I can relax in the comfort (albeit cold) of my own home.  I'm ready to get into bed about now, but had to read several days' worth of messages here in NEM and will try to catch up in other forums tomorrow.

Welcome to the newcomers ... and Happy Birthday and Congratulations for those celebrating their special day. 

I'll be back later ... gotta get some zzzzzzzzz   That's a long drive from Spokane to Coos Bay with a swing through Portland!   

I am that your day is filled with plenty of joy & happiness & that the Lord will bless you with yet another year of HEALTH !!

& plenty of Bear Hugs,

TBEAR[/b][/color]



PS: To everyone who sent me messages last night I will be back on later today and will get back in touch with you after I return from CHRISTMAS SHOPPING with my HUBBY !![/size]

Jane, I am so happy you had a great time with your daughters and granddaughters.  And especially happy that you had no problems with the snow and traveling.  I am glad I don't have to do that traveling in winter weather but I am glad that everything worked out for you.

Well, I am off to the doctor in a few minutes to find out what my blood test shows.

Toodle-oo!

Good morning folks, I'm on the run again this morning. I just stopped in to say hello. Happy Birthday, Sonja. I hope I pronounced that right.

Good Morning and

Happy Birthday to Soni.

Can't stay long this morning just stopped by for a quick cup of Coffee and a Donut. (Did you think you could hide thre donuts  from me?) My neck and shoulders are still hurting from being on the computer for so long last night working on some PSP Masters stuff.

ello to everyone who stops in today I will be back later.

TTYL

Pat - thank you so very much for the hymn "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus."  It's extremely meaningful to me.  I was converted, finally, while reading Phil. 2:5-12, and it was through seeing Jesus as I had never seen Him before.  The things of earth did indeed turn strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.

Welcome ~THEDIMLERS!

Al ~ I won't say what I am thinking, but you are right as usual.

Etta Sue~ As usual you have a great devotion.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to SONJA

Pat:  I have not taken any pictures of the snow - the golf course behind us looks like frosting on a cake.  

Soni:  Happy Birthday to you....  

Papa John:  

Quote31   Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice

. This is so true.  It is a healthy response as well.  I have been rid of bitterness towards a younger brother for many years but he still refuses to talk to me.  It is so sad.  I am also thinking of a good friend who has a son and DIL, and because of a little misunderstanding - they left this state with 3 grandchildren and refuse to communicate with her.  I just don't understand the personality of holding grudges for so many years.  

Jane:  Glad that you had a safe trip and a wonderful visit.  

Nita:  It sounds like your furnace was fixed in the nick of time.  

QuoteWhen have you recently reminded yourself and God that you want your life to be used for his purposes?  We become Christians through God's unmerited grace, not as the result of any effort, ability, intelligent choice, or act of service on our part.  However, out of gratitude for this free gift, we will seek to help and serve others with kindness, love, and gentleness, and not merely to please ourselves.  While no action or work we do can help us obtain salvation, God's intention is that our salvation will result in acts of service.  

Etta Sue:  I love this message.  

Carol

Thanks everyone for the Birthday wishes! 

I am going to take a few stock shots today and make a softbox. 

I'll be back later!

That is a beautiful graphic, Pat! Thanks!

Soni

SONJA...........HAPPY BIRTHDAY LASS............SAVE ME SOME CAKE...

http://www.gifs.net/animate/alcheshire_cat.gif

November 30   

Spiritual Warfare and Sin: The Cleansed Conscience

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having
our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed
with pure water. 
--Hebrews 10:22

What a relief to find the writer to the Hebrews encouraging us to
"draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith,
having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience"
(Hebrews 10:22).

A sprinkled conscience-surely this is a gracious thing for men and
women in the world to know!

One of the most relieving, enriching, wholesome, wondrous things we
can know is that sudden sense of the lifting of the burden as the
conscience goes free-God giving freedom to that conscience which
has been evil, diseased and protesting.

Peter wrote about this and called it "the pledge of a good
conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus
Christ" (1 Peter 3:21).

This is the kind of conversion I believe in-when your sins are
cleansed and forgiven through the blood of the Lamb, you will know
it!...

A transaction has taken place within the human spirit. The heart
suddenly knows itself clean and the burden lifts from the mind and
there is a true sense that heaven is pleased and God is smiling and
the sins are gone.

A transaction within the human spirit-that is the kind of
forgiveness I believe in!  Echoes from Eden, 65-66.

"Lord, I'm overwhelmed this morning with this 'sense that heaven
is pleased and God is smiling and the sins are gone.' I fall on my
face before You in heartfelt worship. Amen."

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Well Good Day to all you wonderful spirit filled souls,

    Etta Sue, Thak you for that wonderful opening. I love those verses.. God   bless you..

     Happy Birthday to our Beloved sweet Soni.   Many Happy rerturns too!!

      Welcome to all you beautiful newcomers of CP.. This is a home to always come to.



      It  has been a trying 2 weeks ,  as first  almost 3 feet of snow which isn't bad if you don't have to walk back into 2 acre  to feed our horses..Than i lost my computer for almost 10 days      which with snow on the gound would have been nice so I could communicate to all, than my truck broke down and they had it at the shop for 2 weeks and it was over 5 hundred dollras and it still won't run even to get back to the shop  to get fixed again, than yesterday I found out I have frozen pipes under my house and have no hot water  in the kitchen so the plumber is on his way out..Lord knows what that will run..

        Well the plumbers are here .. I will be back son..

    God bless and keep you all..


        ALMA

         Happy Birthday Soni! Thanls etta Sue for todays devotional.I found my pipes are also frozen too just opened the doors under the sink  and hope they thaw fast and DO NOT break.I have a headache today and my neck is sore.I called my dr. yesterday my sister who works for him called me and said totry 1/2 a steroid pill every other day for 7 days then if I ant off I can do that too.Hi Sara,I got your message yesterday but did not know how to reply,I am doing fine,how isitgoing for you?
My sister called me this morning to check on me she has not heard from the world travelers either bu did not expect too either.Well I'm going to go take some tylenol and take a snooze take care and god Bless all,by<Beth

Hi everyone.  We seem to have misplaced the sun here today as it is quite overcast and chilly.  However, it is nice and warm here in the house and I don't have to get out again today as far as I know.  I already picked up the mail from the box at the street.

Alma, wow, things have been tough out your way.  Hope you have other transporation available.  Walking those two miles in so much snow certainly sound exhausting.  Hope the plumber gets the pipes fixed.

Happy Birthday, Sonja.  What is a softbox?  

Welcome to the CP site to both The Dimlers and McColorImaging.  We are very happy to have you joining us.

Carol, I think it is so sad when there is a rift in a family and siblings no longer maintain a relationship.  Everyone loses.  I see that within my own immediate family and it is very painful.  Why we can't hate the sin and not the sinner is a big question.

Marilyn, it really sounds like you are getting into those PSP Master lessons.  Get up and move around once in a while.

Tbear, you have the neatest little graphics.  I really liked the one with the dove and olive branch I saw in another disucssion.  Do you collect teddy bears?  My wife bought a couple little teddy bears to give as gifts just this morning.

Jane, glad to read that you had such a good trip and the snow appeared on cue.  You must really have an in with the weather maker!  

Nita, glad you got your furnace fixed and that you are now nice and warm.  

Pat, is this a really busy Avon time for you?  I suppose a lot of folks do some Christmas shopping with Avon.  Pat, are you going to be doing your CP Calendar for this next year?   Know you need something else to do.  

Etta Sue, the calendars are a very nice idea for family members and friends.  The Christmas Card idea is a good one as well.  I have seen some of those cards and they are certainly neat.

Ursula, I had not heard about the lighting of the future.  It is really amazing what technology is developing.

Beth, certainly hope your pipes don't break and that they well thaw out.  Do you have them wrapped with heat tape.  I used to have to do that when I lived in a mobile home in Illinois and Kentucky.  Hope the headache will soon subside.

Jerry, good to see you posting as well as Chris.  Hope I haven't missed anyone.  Guess I had better move on to some other tasks.  Pat wants me to get the Christmas wreath from the storage shed.

Soni - I too wondered what a "softbox" was.  And, I too wish you a very special day today!  Birthdays mark the day we entered this world - they're a celebration of that fact.  I'm glad you're here, Soni!

Hahaaaaaaaaaaa, a softbox is a 3ft square boxy thing covered in white nylon that is fitted over a studio light to give a lovely soft portrait light lol.

Hi family.  Happy Birthday, Soni!  Have fun with your photos.....and creating your softbox.

Chris, you are so smart.  I was wondering, with the others, what in the world a softbox was.

JANE!  Yer back.  Snow as usual, huh?  That is so neat.  The girls will always expect that now, and through the years tell the story of how Grandma can make it snow.  I bet your house was cold when you got home.  It's been chilly in our neck of the woods too.  Not like "snow-chilly", but I had a crispy backyard a couple of days.

I"m just checking in, so need to go bring in laundry and do some folding.  I'll be back later.  love, Nita

Hope that this short note finds everyone doing well ... I am WORN OUT !!  My husband took the morning off and we went shopping ... shopping ... shopping & found some GOOD BARGINS for CHRISTMAS GIFTS so I've a lot of work ahead of me as I am going to make up those JARS of BATH SALTS that I posted & if they come out I'll get a picture to share with everyone.  We had breakfast out which I had a LOADED OMELETE & that it was ... steak ... hashbrowns ... mushrooms ... cheese ... green peppers & more so I ate the whole thing & was I stuffed & I had to do a lot of walking to get it off my feet are never so happy to be home & in something warm.  So, I just wanted to stop in and look around and get a couple of posts up & then check out the PM'S from last night again so ... take care & I will be back tomrrow to share again !!



TBEAR

I went to the doctor's office at 9 a.m.  I was a day late.  My appointment was yesterday!!!


But they were nice about it and I made another appointment at 1 p.m.  So I visited with my DIL and then had a steak at a steakhouse and then went to the doctor.  Then Wally-World and home. 

I think I am

   

Etta Sue,

Thanks for the wonderful devotion. It involves my favorite thought, resting in Jesus. Rest and peace are hard to find in this old world, but not hard to find in Jesus.

Love In Christ,
Tom

Psalms 130:5  I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.

Thanks for all the welcome home messages ... especially Carol, Nita, Larry, and Etta Sue ...

Yup, NITA ... It was just plain cold here when I got home.  The neighbors said that on Sunday the frost was so thick on my roof that it looked like it had snowed!   You're right about the girls believing that I can make it snow!  They are so much fun.  Candice called, from Southern California, and we had a nice visit over the phone, too.  She says she is sending me some photos of the kids "After the 2nd" of December...I sure hope so!

When I got home, I had a message on my answering machine from my doctor's office asking me to call back.  That was Wednesday but, when I called today, I just got their voice mail and left the message that I'd been out of town and was just returning Holly's call.   Then I went to the store and, when I returned, I had a message from the Bay Area Hospital (X-Ray) that I'd been scheduled for an appointment and they were wondering where I was!  Guess Holly had made an appointment for me and I had no idea so missed it ..... No one is answering their phone today it seems, so all I can do is wait until someone decides to call me and speak with me in person to let me know what's going on!  I received a letter after my mammography that there was an "area of concern" that needs further evaluation.  I suppose that's what this is all about .... I'm not concerned, but I guess someone else is!   

I finally got my house warmed up today so I am comfortable once again.   

I don't know how long I will be able to stay home because my (other) daughter emailed me that she and Bryan will be arriving in California tomorrow.  Her return ticket is for January 12 and she is expecting me to be in California at least some of the time she is there.  I have had my laptop reformatted for Bryan's use and he wants me to bring the antelope head he left with me for safe keeping when he went into the Army.   

Joy says she (and Bryan) wants to be with Bryan for Christmas and his birthday since he was "in that place we don't like to talk about" last year.  Then she wrote that she'd come up here (to Oregon) for some time with me .... I really don't want to be in California for very long, but I understand she is planning for me to be her transportation to and from my home so I'll have to be there at least some of the time!  hmmmm   Guess I'll just do my usual "go with the flow" and let things happen in God's timing and according to His plan for us all.

I think I will go look for something to fix for dinner  .... I'll be back!   See y'all later.