Thoughts for the Week ~ September20

Al Moak · September 19, 2010, 07:31:50 PM

Our God is real, and He knows, and He cares.

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Morning Devotional...

Psalm 54

This psalm is a complaint about being maliciously "used" by some who had been thought to be friends. But the ultimately sharp contrast is that there's a wonderful God Who truly understsnds. He's a God Who isn't merely "afar off up there in heaven," He can and does deal with real affairs down here on earth as well. He's a God Who really cares and really acts in response to His people's prayers.

These are things every Israelite could easily relate to each day as he went out into an unfriendly world. It was good for him to hear and repeat the words of this song. It's good for us too.

David had gone to the Ziphites, thinking that these supposed "friends" would provide him refuge from Saul's persecutions. He thought he could "lie low" there for a little while until he "caught his breath," so to speak. But the Ziphites saw an opportunity to get favors from king Saul (maybe something like a little more tax money for their district). So they went and told Saul that David was hiding out among them.

Obviously the Ziphites hadn't even considered the possibility that God's plan was to set David upon Israel's throne and that He would therefore deliver David and at the same time make things go very, very badly for anyone who betrayed him. A little later, after David's triumph, the temple worshippers sang, "And oppressors have sought after my life; they have not set God before them." It's a common problem in the world: men concoct schemes without any consideration at all of the unseen Lord of earthly affairs.

And David, later on, remembers this episode and leads the people to sing, "Behold, God is my Helper; the Lord is with those who uphold my life. He will repay my enemies for their evil!" He used the word "behold" because this song was written after the fact - people should notice that God had indeed been David's helper!

Because of a very great deliverance in this case, David could conclude his song on a very joyful note. He sang, "I will freely sacrifice to You; I will praise Your Name, O Lord, for it is good. For He has delivered me out of all trouble; and my eye has seen its desire upon my enemies!"

Later on, when worshippers sang this song to start their day, it would renew their trust in a God Who is always concerned when it comes to His people. They could leave the time of worship with confidence that it didn't matter what man did to them that day, because God's plan for them would be fulfilled anyway!

Does He have a plan for you? If you trust Him today, if you love Him and desire to serve Him, then He DOES have such a plan - and NO scheme of man can overthrow it!
Al Moak

Our Lord is able to help us because He lives - today.

Because He Lives
(Click to hear music)

Words and music by William J. Gaither
copyright 1971

"He is not here: for he is risen, as he said.
Come, see the place where the Lord lay."
Matthew 28:6

God sent His son, they called Him, Jesus;
He came to love, heal and forgive;
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives!

Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!

How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy he gives;
But greater still the calm assurance:
This child can face uncertain days because He Lives!

Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!

And then one day, I'll cross the river,
I'll fight life's final war with pain;
And then, as death gives way to vict'ry,
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives!

Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!

Carol · September 19, 2010, 08:58:23 PM

Al: Many thanks for devotions on why we can trust the God is always aware of what is happening to us.

As our son left the cabin to come home, he said that a good amount of firetrucks were heading in the direction of the park. That was probably early to mid-afternoon. Pray for the firefighters safety and I am adding a prayer for the elk and other animals.

Larry: Good idea to see your doctor. I have you, Pat and Stacey in my prayers.

Ruth Ann: Super gift - enjoy.

Janet: We have always talked about going to Branson and it sounds like you were in some great spots.

JudyB · September 19, 2010, 10:39:24 PM

Thank you Al for the devotional. He always know what is happening in our lives. That Gaither song is always a difficult one for me to sing along with.

Have a good night everyone!

Ruth Ann Bice · September 20, 2010, 01:44:22 AM

Hi, just peeking in the door before the sandman puts me to sleep.

Y'all have a wonderful day.\

Ruth Ann

Larry Hanna · September 20, 2010, 07:23:40 AM

Hi everyone.

I went to bed very early last evening and got about 9 hours of sleep. Am feeling better this morning so will see what the day brings. I have a very light schedule today with just my men's luncheon at 1 pm, which is nearby and very non-stressful. I am going to have to give serious consideration as to whether I can continue to hold the position that allows me to attend these state-wide meetings. This was the 6th one I have attended and do enjoy the experience however, this last weekend was almost too much. I just hate to admit that I seem to be getting weaker and weaker as felt good after the last stent was put in.

Al, thanks for the new devotional thoughts for this week.

Janet, I have heard some rave things about Sixes and several of the other shows. While we were there a number of the theaters were dark but did get to see Any Willaims and the 12 Irish Tenors as well as a husband and wife and several others who presented a great and fast moving show featuring music for several decades. They also did their Christmas show. I remember they had a cute little girl who participated with them in the show and did a super job. We enjoyed all of the shows.

Judy, I am sure working in a chicken processing plant must have been a big challenge and can understand not eating KFC for a number of years. I grew up on a dairy farm and do not like milk by itself. Of course, make ice cream out of it that is a whole different story.

Carol · September 20, 2010, 11:04:04 AM

An update on one of the Rocky Mountain Park fires - the one closest to Grand Lake is contained. Now, there is another one that is on both sides of the road nine miles from the town of Granby. There are some ranches in the area but very sparse in any buildings. Again, a beautiful drive.

Larry: You must have needed that extra sleep so it is good that you were able to have that gift last night. Resigning from any volunteer work is always met with two ways of feeling about it and of course, you need to consider how you feel after the meetings. You'll make the decision that is best for you in the end.

Don invited friends over tonight and we will drive them to a restaurant.( I always have a problem spelling restaurant unless I have recently written the word. ) I did vacuum and have the house tidy but what is the use of deep cleaning until the bathroom workers are finished? Now I must really get to work because I didn't know he was asking anyone indoors until this would be over - the toilet is sitting on plastic just outside the bathroom. Oh, yea! Thank goodness we have another bathroom.

Ruth · September 20, 2010, 11:42:05 AM

Good morning:

Al: Thanks for the devotional
Ruth Ann: The TV was a lovely gift for sure.
Janet: Glad that you enjoyed your holiday.
Larry: Please do what your heart leads.
Marilyn, Judy, Ruth V, do take care.
Pat: Please let us know how Paul is.

It is a most beautiful day and for sure I will be going out to do some of the gardening in readiness for the winter. It is nice to get every planted for the summer then when fall arrives it is good
to have it all tidy in readiness for winter.

Mel had a small delivery to make and on his way I asked him to take a bowl of home made soup to my Aunt, something for her lunch or supper.

Ruth

JudyB · September 20, 2010, 11:47:26 AM

Carol I understand renovations! And I am always thankful for spell check, but I sometimes miss the words underlined. We live in an area where there are frequent fire bans, because of the dryness of the area. If there were a fire it would be devastating.

Larry sometimes we have to stop doing what we enjoy for health reasons. That is always sad and hard to do. I will continue to pray for you.

I have a bunch of calls to make so will not be on here too long!

Janet · September 20, 2010, 12:26:31 PM

I'm sleepy! Darrel and I lay awake reading until after 1:30 AM; both of us finished the books we were reading. But I can tell I am short of ZZZZs today!

I have been to the chiropractor, and then by the museum to pick up a picture they want me to frame, and the lady wanted to visit, and visit, and visit....but nice. I enjoyed talking with her. I don't see her very often.

Larry, glad you do feel stronger today, but it might be good to see your doctor anyway. And I understand that it's hard to give up the things we enjoy doing, and hope that will not be necessary for you, but please take care of yourself first!

Carol, I hope those fires are soon a thing of the past. This old world is being beaten and battered all over--Wichita had a terrible hail storm while we were in Branson. Stones larger than softballs, and they actually punched holes in the ground about 4 inches deep! That will be a roofers' paradise for a while! I am sorry for the property owners, and even the insurance companies. But then they always raise the rates--as if it is the owners' fault.

The wind is blowing like crazy here, we can barely push the door open to get out of the house. Ugh.

Carol · September 20, 2010, 12:51:43 PM

Yes, glad that someone asked about Paul - I have been thinking of him and the health care situation -

Pat: Still praying for the two of you!!!!

I just checked Facebook and am feeling so low. One classmate who is very strong politically left has signed an actual Hate Bush thing & I decided to look at what people were writing. It such shocking and hateful rhetoric that makes me so sad. This is dividing our country when we should be working together on so many things. I don't care which side people feel, it just so senseless to harbor these evil feelings & I sure don't understand why the bible, anything Christian is being attacked. I still love my friend but it is hard to never say anything to her regarding political issues.

Etta Sue · September 20, 2010, 03:02:27 PM

Not much to say today other than I have been cleaning the house for Euchre here tomorrow.

Still no rain. We sure need rain. And I am still surrounded by corn fields. When I am out and about, some of the corn and beans have been harvested. It is early for harvest but the fields are ready! Fall is in the air.

<OO> <oo> <OO> <oo> <OO> <oo> <OO> <oo> <OO> <oo>

JudyB · September 20, 2010, 04:39:03 PM

I have car repairs.....only 140 instead of what I expected. Yea thank you Lord!

Ruth Ann Bice · September 20, 2010, 08:23:51 PM

Hi, friends, it's been a good and quiet day today. Calls from daughter and daughter-in-law were good, and I'm so thankful for my clean apartment. It's even running through my mind a way to gain a bit of storage space and also enhance the look of my living room (at no cost, thank goodness!).

Y'all have a good rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

Janet · September 21, 2010, 08:56:55 AM

Carol, that is so sad about your classmate. Why is it that some people hate Bush so much? Yes, he made mistakes; who hasn't? I believe the root of the hatred is from the fact that Bush is an unapologetic Christian, and the devil hates him and will do anything he can to destroy him. I'm so glad we serve the almighty God who is above every work of the devil. I'm sure Bush still wants and appreciates our prayers for him. I'm sorry that reading that trash has made you feel so down. We know who wins in the end, don't we?

Our two hours, twice a month housekeeper is due any minute, must get off here and decide what I want her to do today. The house is in pretty good shape, since we were gone for five days!

Ruth Ann, want to come and help me do some rearranging and changing in this house? Bet your apartment looks lovely!

Etta Sue, come on over, I have plenty of cleaning to do and you are welcome to help! Enjoy Euchere (whatever that is!)

See you later!

Larry Hanna · September 21, 2010, 10:39:29 AM

Hi everyone. I woke up tired this morning with the feeling that my eyes just want to be closed. I did go to coffee, which I always enjoy, and have a short meeting to attend this morning and then will come home and rest for the rest of the day. I did write to my doctor yesterday and hope he will reply. I showed Pat what I wrote and she pointed out I really didn't ask him a question but just told him what was going on. I guess I will know in a day or so as they are suppose to respond within a 36 hour window.

Carol, I also stumble over the word restaurant every time I spell it. I am usually a good speller but this word always gets me. I am glad it is in the spell check function of this website. I am sure your friends will completely understand you are in the midst of some remodeling and not think anything about the situation you described. I do hope you didn't worry about that.

Judy, glad you got good news on the cost of your car repair. You certainly can't drive without brakes.

Janet, our housekeepers are paid a set amount for the job and that is to clean basically the whole house. Of course, some rooms do not really need much but a quick vacuuming and a bit of dusting so that doesn't take long. They do a great job and we are very pleased with them. They are always willing to do the little extraordinary things that Pat may want done like occasionally sweeping out the garage.

Last night Pat took her very large white on white quilt to her guild meeting for show and tell. She completed it is 1997 and it is all hand quilted. She got a lot of compliments on it and on her small stitches. We keep it on one wall as a wall hanging and the housekeepers took it down last week so Pat washed it and it will go back on the wall next Monday.

Janet, Pat's sister lives in Independence, Missouri and they had a terrible hail storm with 5 inch hail a few miles from where she lives. It hit a big shopping center and did a lot of damage. It was probably the same storm.

Time to leave. Hope everyone has a fine day.

Etta Sue · September 21, 2010, 11:37:15 AM

Good morning for awhile. I am all ready for the girls to come to play Euchre. Euchre is a card game that just about everyone in Indiana and surrounding states know how to play. A mid-west game. You play with just 24 cards, 9-Ace. The dealer deals 5 cards to four players and leaves 4 in the kitty with one card turned up. From the dealers left that person can make that card trump or pass. If she passes, then the next, and the next and the dealer have the same option to make it trump or to pass. If everyone passes, the dealer turns the card down and then the person on the dealer's left can make trump what she wants or pass. If everyone passes then the dealer may deal again. But the dealer has to make trump if everyone passes twice on the second deal.

If you have a really good hand and make it trump you can go alone. Meaning your partner, the one across from you doesn't have to play. You get 4 points if you get all 5 tricks. If you get three tricks you get 1 point. But if not three points, then you are Euchred and have to put two quarters in the bowl. The other two gets two points.

If your partner helps you. You get 1 point if you get three tricks and two points if you get all 5 tricks. But if you don't get three tricks, you are Euchred and the other two gets two points and both of you have to put a quarter each in the bowl.

Now the trick to it all is that the Jack that is trump is the highest card...he can take anything. Then the Jack of the same color is second highest, then Ace down through 9 of trump. But you have to follow suit if you have that suit. Otherwise you can trump.

We play 8 hands and put the score down on paper and change partners, sometimes changing tables. We put in a dollar to play. The person with the highest score gets $5. Second highest gets $2. And the lowest score get her dollar back. The person with the most lones gets all the quarters from all the Euchres in the bowl. And the person that makes the last lone gets a gift bag with a small gift in it. No one comes out a millionaire and no one breaks the bank. Just a lot of fun and laughter.

It sounds complicated but fun! Now don't you wish you lived in Indiana and played Euchre??

I am all ready for company! First Ivalou and I are going to Lapel for lunch so I won't have to mess up the kitchen. She needs money from the bank so we will do that first and then go eat!

3pm will get here soon!

(*)*(*)*(*)*(*)*(*)*(*)*(*)*(*)*(*)*(*)*(*)*(*)*

JudyB · September 21, 2010, 01:04:58 PM

Etta Sue it is fun, Euchre, that is, we don't play for quarters, just points.

RuthV and I went to the woman's meeting today, and what a blessing that was. We studied Jericho and then went on to dig deeper. Quite the study.

It is a windy day here today. Trees are bending over and leaves flying everywhere. The sun is bright and warm.

Going through pictures today, I have some to put into the challenge. we'll see what I can come up with . We need the rest of you to enter your pictures of churches as well!

Larry Hanna · September 21, 2010, 03:33:16 PM

I met to post this poem this morning. I got it a couple of days ago from my best friend. I have met the man who wrote it a couple of times. He is also the Sunday School teacher of my best friend and his wife. I thought you all might enjoy it. I did receive permission from Carl to share it here as it is Copyrighted.

The Prodigal

When I'm a prodigal, lean grocer's shelves aggravate me,
But when I'm in sync with my Father's will,
I remember the millions hungering for just one slice of bread,
While I could buy hundreds of loaves today.
Ah, God, You're so good to me!

When I'm a prodigal, children's incessant questions irritate me,
But when I'm in sync with my Father's will,
I remember children are created with an expansive, empty database
And they ask me questions out of respect for my wisdom.
Ah, God, You're so good to me!

When I'm a prodigal, people--even friends--can be so annoying!
But when I'm in sync with my Father's will,
I remember that He places people in my path for a purpose; so
I may be a blessing to them ... or they may be a blessing to me!
Ah, God, You're so good to me!

When I'm a prodigal, I see our flag as just a colored rag.
But when I'm in sync with my Father's will,
The stars and stripes remind me of scores of children who will never come home again;
Those who died so I can breathe the fresh air of freedom.
Ah, God, You're so good to me!

--J. Carl Newell
©2005

Carol · September 21, 2010, 04:10:11 PM

Larry: Your friend is spot on with his Prodigal story. It is so true - how we slip and slide through life without thinking of others. Oh, to be more consistent. Glad that Pat's sister is alright from that ugly hailstorm. Also, it would be wonderful to see Pat's wall quilt with all of her hand stitches. Hi from me!

Ruth: Mmmmm good - soup sounds good always.

JudyB: I forget how many feet close to the house that nothing should be grown. But it makes it seem so plain - it is much safer. Take care too. JERICHO - that old song just keeps running through my head since you mentioned it.

I am the last person on earth to ever mention that I felt a sign from God but it just happened today while walking & praying and it is the 2nd. time in my life, no - third that something calmed me considerably. For me, it was seeing a perfect dandelion and that is the exact same thing that happened years ago - it is too long of a story to tell but it means the world to me.
Grace and peace for all

Ruth · September 21, 2010, 08:06:33 PM

Larry: I enjoyed the Prodigal story.

Carol: What is a perfect dandelion?

I was a kinda feel sorry for me day, I guess it being so unseasonably warm, along with the fact I have some issues with my neck. Later in the afternoon I went to Sears and purchased a garment that has extra back support, I will see if it helps then while at Sears it was a buy l get l free, yes I purchased one top at a reduced price and got the other free. in total $14.00

Dancing with the stars is now on so will see ya'll tomorrow.

Carol · September 21, 2010, 08:31:36 PM

Ruth: Good wishes on getting a handle on your neck pain - been there. Oh, that dandelion was so fresh & bright yellow and that is rare for this time of the year in our dry country. Good sale on your tops!

We just returned from going to g-daughter's volleyball game. They lost two games but she was kept in the game the entire time and did her serves really nice. Her braces are off & what a pretty smile. At 13, I think she is taller (5'6") every time we see her. Waiting to hear if someone will call back on a washer dryer set we have on sale.

JudyB · September 21, 2010, 09:44:53 PM

Good evening all. We have the van back, hydro was out so Kass and I went out to eat. It was really nice being able to chat with her and relax eating.

There is a tree down laying across the phone line. I am wondering how long the connection will hold. The wind has been really blustery today, In town fences were blown down as well.

I must go I am wanting to turn in early tonight, and time is creeping on.

Ruth Ann Bice · September 21, 2010, 10:44:11 PM

While I don't usually arise early in the morning, today was an exception. Twice a month I play piano for our apartment tower's devotions. It's like a mini mid week service, with a solo or duet, 1 congregational song, and the visiting minister speaks for about 15-20 minutes. NO COLLECTION PLATE FOR OFFERINGS!!

Then, it was arrange some business matters by phone. Then try to rest my painful right leg, then make a meatloaf and jello with fruit cocktail in it for the seniors bible study at my church. It was a great time of fellowship, a wonderful bible study, then cleanup and finally back home again.

Sooo, I think bedtime comes shortly tonight.

Love to each of you,
Ruth Ann

Janet · September 21, 2010, 11:08:53 PM

It sounds as if everyone has had a pleasant or productive day. Tonight was our annual Grant County Home Products Dinner, where everything served is grown right here in Grant County. There were about 2500 people there, and everyone seemed to be having a good time. We had a gospel hillbilly band sing and play for us while dinner was being served. The senior citizens get to go in and be seated right away, and they entertained us. Then we had introduction of VIPs (always lots of politicians, etc. at the dinner), the national anthem was sung beautifully by my chiropractor's wife, more introductions of the dinner committee, announcement of the citizen of the year, then a funny speaker. Very nice evening. My friend Pat went with me, as neither of our husbands wanted to go.

And now it's time to hit the hay and read a few chapters in my Bible. See you tomorrow!

Larry Hanna · September 22, 2010, 07:36:15 AM

Hi everyone. Glad you liked the poem and I will pass along the comments to my friend so he can pass them on to the author. The poet has also written a book called "A Gratitude Attitude". I saw a copy of it yesterday.

Yesterday was another almost lost day for me. I did manage to stay up all morning and attended my meeting but didn't stay for the entire thing and just came home and went to bed. I was up for an hour and then laid down again until dinner. Stayed up another couple of hours and then to bed for the night. I am hopeful today will be a much better day. I will go to coffee shortly and then decide whether I feel up to further activity today as this is Bible Study morning and then choir tonight. I don't like to miss either of these things as they are the highlight of midweek.

Janet, it sounds like quite a dinner you had last night and I remember your attending other years. That is a large crowd to serve. Glad Pat went with you as doing things with someone else is always more enjoyable.

Ruth Ann, you really had a busy day. Hope that leg is feeling better.

Judy, it is interesting how sitting across the table gives us occasions to talk when being in the same house often doesn't. Guess it is the change of scenery. Glad you have your car back. Sounds like you had some serious winds up there.

Carol, I believe some experience defy description in terms of others understanding what the experience has met to us. They are precious. I have tried taking pictures of Pat's white-on-white quilt but they don't begin to do it justice. Guess you will just have to come visit us and see it for yourself.

Ruth you sounds like a very good shopper. Hope your neck is feeling better today.

Etta Sue, that was a good explanation of Euchre. I have played it a few times and have the game on my computer with the set of Hoyle card games. It is fast and fun.

Janet · September 22, 2010, 10:09:27 AM

I made a mistake in the number of people attending the dinner, it was actually 2500. That's one big roomful of people!

Larry, my prayers are with you. You are a precious brother and we want you to be with us until the trumpet call and shout take us all to heaven. Thank you for taking care of yourself. I would love to see Pat's lovely white-on-white quilt, I am picturing it in my mind and know the reality would be much more beautiful. Hope you feel stronger all day today.

I don't have any have-to-dos today. This afternoon is making a scrapbook page at the library, and I always look forward to that. I need to get some exercise sometime today.

Carol, isn't it wonderful how God can use something as simple as one perfect dandelion to speak to our hearts? That is, if we are listening. Hugs to you, and I am so happy you experienced this.

The weather here is beautiful (when the wind doesn't blow) but you can sure feel Fall in the air.

This thing is jumping again, so if I have more to say, I will come back later.

JudyB · September 22, 2010, 10:39:01 AM

Are you concerned about losing your faith?

Can anything ever separate us from Christ's love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or are hungry or cold or in danger or threatened with death? (Even the Scriptures say, 'For your sake we are killed every day, we are being slaughtered like sheep.') No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from his love. Death can't, and life can't. The angels can't, and the demons can't. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, and even the powers of hell can't keep God's love away. Whether we are high above the sky or in the deepest ocean, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:35-39 NLT

We are God's People
"We are not babes in the woods—we are God's people and, no matter how it looks now, we are going to inherit this earth and rule it. The devil may be prince of this world, but the earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof, and He will set up His kingdom and His people will be in charge of it."

Vance Havner

Marilyn · September 22, 2010, 12:20:36 PM

I've been to the gym and now I have changed my shoes and put on my jeans, will be going to the farmers market in a little while. Before I went to the gym I washed a few dishes, made the bed and fed all the animals. I made home made yogurt last night so I also took that out of the yogurt maker and set it on a rack to cool. I have a Photoshop lesson to complete and an appointment with the ENT this afternoon about my throat..

Spaghetti for supper tonight, Last night we had BBQ'ed chicken breast with sides of String beans and corn.

Jeanne Lee · September 22, 2010, 01:49:56 PM

Marilyn, I had yesterday marked on my calendar as the day you were going to the ENT. Oh well, prayers are never wasted, so I'll just continue on with them today.

Carol · September 22, 2010, 01:54:23 PM

Just put in a call to the contractor as he isn't communicating very well. This bathroom work has been stalled since last week. Promises promises.

Marilyn: Good wishes for your ENT appointment.

Bible study was in Judges and the second week of violence in the bible - things we skip over usually.

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Thoughts for the Week ~ September20

Al Moak

Carol

JudyB

Ruth Ann Bice

Larry Hanna

Carol

Ruth

JudyB

Janet

Carol

Etta Sue

JudyB

Ruth Ann Bice

Janet

Larry Hanna

Etta Sue

JudyB

Larry Hanna

Carol

Ruth

Carol

JudyB

Ruth Ann Bice

Janet

Larry Hanna

Janet

JudyB

Marilyn

Jeanne Lee

Carol