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Which Category Are You In?
by Adrian Rodgers

BIBLE MEDITATION:

"Who fed thee in the wilderness with manna, which thy fathers knew not, that He might humble thee, and that He might prove thee, to do thee good at thy latter end." Deuteronomy 8:16

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:

There are three categories of people reading this: those who are in trouble; those who are just getting out of trouble; and those who are going into trouble. Job 14:1 says, "Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble."

The Spanish have a proverb: "There's no home without its hush." Sooner or later, we will all know sorrow, heartache, and trouble. What we need to know is that troubles are not a sign that things have gone wrong or things have gotten out of hand. We are often in trouble by the providence, plan, and purpose of Almighty God.

When the Israelites were delivered from Pharaoh's army through the Red Sea, they went into the wilderness. Had God lost control? No. God led them there by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.

ACTION POINT:
In the unfailing providence of God, we are often led into a place of trouble. The wilderness is God's proving ground for your faith. How are you doing?

Devotions taken from the messages of Adrian Rogers.
© 2014 Love Worth Finding Ministries | PO Box 38300 - Memphis, TN 38183-0300

Hi everyone on a second rainy morning in a row with rain to continue throughout the day and a high of 54 degrees.  The main thing planned for today is to get to the showroom of the company that provided the ceiling fans for our house and try to find a light kit that actually puts out enough light to work with.  Our son will be over later this morning and will go with us and come back and install it.  Nothing else on the schedule for today. 

Annually our Sunday School class provides turkeys and/or hams to the community mission for the food bank for Thanksgiving and Christmas.  A special offering was taken up yesterday with over $600 contributed for the project. 

Janet, happy to see you are giving yourself time to heal before plunging back into your busy schedule.  Hope today finds you feeling much better and that John and Beth are having a better day.  A five hour trip for Beth would undoubtedly be a challenge for her and for all concerned. A couple of years ago we filled a Christmas Shoe Box and it was quite an effort.  I took the box with me to the store to be sure what I bought would fit into it.  I haven't heard anything about our church hear participating in the project.

Jeanne, thanks for the devotional thoughts for this week from Adrian Rogers. Certainly sorrow, heartache and trouble are part of the human experience but also are joy and happiness that we better appreciate based on all of our life experiences.  We all have highs and lows in our life but Christ stays constant in his love and care for us.

Good morning everyone   
This is the week for my next great adventure.  Count down begins.  I have had times of apprehension and anxiety because it is so unknown to me.  Yesterday I finally looked on the internet for what to expect of a mastectomy, and that has helped a bit, but there is still that lingering feeling    I go for the pre-op on Wednesday, and then surgery will be on Thursday.  According to what I read I can anticipate a stay at the hospital of about 3 days.  Then it will be a lot of resting and healing at home. 

My daughter Joy, and Bryan, are planning to come on the 19th.  I probably won't be much of a charming hostess, but Joy said since I sat by her "in those uncomfortable chairs" for six weeks, she owes me at least a week or so.  I have bought all the groceries (except milk and eggs) that I figure they will need for meals and I guess Bryan will be able to heat up soup for me once in a while.    Joy says he eats fast food a lot, so he can just drive himself to whichever fast food place he chooses. 

Becky will stop by on the Saturday after Thanksgiving on her way back to California from a visit to relatives near Portland.  She and Karmen will just spend that night and be off again on Sunday.  I'm hoping we have enough places for everyone to sleep comfortably! 

I really have been paying attention to all your conversations here.  It is difficult for me to break in because I seldom have anything to say that could add to the conversation.  Please do know that I am praying for each one of the situations: Beth and John, Janet, Don, Ruth Ann, and certainly for Pat.  Our Father knows each need so much more than any of us can articulate.  I trust Him to keep each one of you close to His heart as you trust Him to meet your needs.  I know I have omitted someone, and for that I apologize, I do pray as I read here every day, and you are not forgotten!

I will be around (just so you don't think I'm a square ) and will try to keep y'all up to date with my little adventure.

Jane!  good to see your post!  It sounds like you are keeping the right attitude,and I always think that gets us a long way.  And you have as much to add as any of us, but I guess some of us are jut "gabbier" than you!  It is always good to hear about your adventures and activities.  Prayers go with you as you go!

I went in and cut the top of Beth's hair this morning.  Went to hospital for another test.  Came home and took up my five red geraniums and brought them in, as they are still so pretty and I didn't want them to freeze.  Killing freeze predicted for tonight.

I am so sleepy, so guess what I'm going to do?  Right...

Hi everyone.  It looks like the rain is over for a few days and we should once again see the sun and dry out a bit. Pat has a followup appointment at the sleep doctor's office at 10 this morning and then we will stop by the Credit Union to get some papers notarized.  That is all that is on the schedule for today but one never knows what may be on the horizon during the day. 

Jane, with your attitude and total trust in God I know you will do well with the surgery and hopefully experience a speedy recovery.  I am glad your family will be coming to be with you a few days.  You know we are here for you if you need us.  Your postings are always most appreciated even if it is nothing more than a note to say hi.  (Glad to know you are not a square.) 

Janet, I am one of those "gabbier" ones and I appreciate whatever someone care to share of with us.  It sounds like a touch of late fall was to arrive in Kansas last night with a killing freeze.  I think we are to get up to 70 degrees this afternoon. 

Hi, friends,

I didn't realize it was several days that I missed being here. I've not felt great, and have done little but sleep.

Larry, we may have a misunderstanding. The doctor did not want me to add more salt to my food. My son was mistaken and the doctor quickly corrected him. Yes, limited fluids has been difficult for me, too. But I can tell how much better I feel if I'm careful.

Jane, you're in my thoughts and prayers. I went into a surgery once when I told the surgeon if he found cancer, I wanted him to do a double mastectomy. So, I can empathize with your feelings as you prepare for this next adventure in your life. A minister once said, "Faith is when you step out on nothing and God holds you up." That seems to be the way I am able to undergo these procedures without too much fear and worry.

Janet, am thinking of you and your family and praying for guidance, wisdom, and support as y'all go through your days.

Jeanne, thank you for your faithful participation.

Marilyn, thanks for that update on the requirements for therapy animals.

Y'all have a good rest of the night.

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

Hi everyone on a beautiful, sunny and crisp fall day here in South Carolina.  It looks like the rain is over for a few days and that is welcome.  The schedule for today is to probably take Pat down to her crafts meeting at church and go on down to coffee with the guys until she is finished.  Then this evening we will go to the church for dinner and the following Bible study with the pastor. 

Ruth Ann, sorry that you having been feeling up to par but glad you have been able to get needed sleep.  I did understand that your doctor had not told you to eat more salt. I liked the saying your shared with us that "Faith is when you step out on nothing and God holds you up."  Sure hope you are feeling better today. 

A day for remembering....

May God bless all our Veterans today, Both in the USA and Canada!

We attended the Veterans' Breakfast given by the high school students this morning, and it was so nice!  What wonderful young people we have!  So proud of them and thankful for them.  I won one of the door prizes--a bag of coffee, several packets of hot chocolate mix, some Biscotti sticks, mints, and a red, white and blue mug!  Nice gift, and one we can share.

Our trip to and from Wichita yesterday went smoothly.  Darrel finally has new hearing aids, after six long months without!  And I am enjoying them a lot!   

The weather here has been lovely, and it's still not too cold today, but we do have high winds.  And you all know how I feel about that!     Oh, well, one can't have everything, they say.

Larry, I'm glad you and I are "gabby" as without us and Ruth Ann, some days there wouldn't be anything here to read!

I see on FB that Pat is doing better, still having ongoing tests.  Praise God that Judy was talking to her and recognized that there was a problem!  Pat, if you pop in, please know we love you and continue our prayers for a speedy and complete recovery!

I thought the debate was much better last night, after I finally found out where to find it!     We missed quite a bit before I got on computer to find out what channel was carrying it!  Even then, we had to watch it on my laptop, as we don't pay the extra $15 per month  for Fox Business channel.  Sigh......  I noticed there was at least one less person on the stage this time.  Chris Christie wasn't there.  Hmmm...

I need to address a few more invitations to the wedding!  See you later...OH!

Yesterday, a total wreck of a pickup--and that is NOT an exaggeration!--hit John's new car, as he was turning the corner going to see Beth.  I guess there was quite a bit of damage to John's car.  We have been seeing that wreck parked at the home for weeks and weeks, wondering who owned it.  One day, it had two flat tires.  The right side is bashed in, window covered with plywood; hood held down with a bungee cord--I mean, it's a wreck, and shouldn't even be on the road!  I feel so bad for John.  But he does have Beth's van to drive, so he isn't afoot.  And thank God, he wasn't hurt.  He doesn't know how long his car will be in for repairs.

Okay--now I'm going!   

Hello just stopping by to read what y'all have to say and see what is going on in your lives. WE went to The Blue Heron Restaurant today  to receive a free lunch for Keith. That is there way of honoring the vets. I had lunch too and oh boy was it ever good. It is a German restaurant, Keith had a Reuben sandwich with fries and I had a Vegetarian Sandwich with cole slaw an fries.   That sandwich was so huge I had to eat some of the filling out with my fork before it would fit in my mouth. There as a Whole wheat sour dough bun with fresh spinach, olives  cucumbers tomatoes, avocado and a pesto sauce mixed with cream cheese on the bread.  I think we will be having a light supper tonight

Hi, friends,

Thank God for our veterans and what they mean to the freedoms we enjoy. As a twice over veterans mom, I'm grateful for my own sons' service and for that of all others.

Pat and Judy, don't abandon us here at CP. We love you and miss you.

Janet, I'm so sorry about the accident involving John's car. Hopefully it will be put in good order right away.

Larry, it's so good to hear how y'all are participating in your church.

Marilyn, I grinned today and wondered if I could get a freebie meal since not one but two of my sons served in the military.

Jeanne, thanks for being here.

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

I've got 3 sons   who served in the Navy.

For me, it is two grandsons--US Air Force!  One is out now, other still active duty.  I had daughters!

It is an interesting time here trying to stabilize Don and we plan to drive home next week between snowstorms and only if he does not feel weak.  We will take as long as needed and not rush the travel anymore.  Don was Air Force Stratigic Air Command. 

Jane, Your children will be visiting and that is so good they can be with you.  A prayer for medical guidance and a quick recovery for you.

Best to everyone, you are loved.  My cousin told me this today and I will pass that on to each of you. 

Hi everyone.  Another cloudy morning but should see some sun today.  Our son came out yesterday afternoon and installed the light kit to the fan in Pat's sewing room.  We had a nice chicken and dumplings dinner at church last night and an interesting Bible study. 

Today the schedule is the normal for Thursday.  I will pick up my friend to take to coffee and then hope to meet my son for breakfast at the restaurant.  Following that I will probably take my friend home and then come back to the church for the Wisdom group meeting with the Pastor.  Then I expect to have a quiet afternoon and evening. 

Janet, congrats on your win of the door prize.  That does sound like a nice gift and it is mostly consumable, which at our age seems to be the best kind.  If you are like us you probably didn't need another mug.    Thanks for sharing what you learned regarding Pat and that she is doing better.  I also watched the debates.  There was an early debate where Christie appeared with Jindal, and two of the other low polling candidates.  So sorry to hear of the wreck that messed up John's new car. 

Marilyn, sounds like a great meal although a vegetarian sandwich does not appeal to me.  Now the Reuben is another matter as I do enjoy one of those occasionally. 

Ruth Ann, good try on the freebie meal idea but don't think it would work.  I do hope today finds you feeling better.

Carol, so sorry to see that Don is still having weak spells.  I am sure that will be a worrisome trip home.  Fortunately, anymore with cellphones we can usually call for assistance while on the road if needed but sure hope you won't need to do that. 

I went for all the pre-op stuff yesterday, and learned I will only be staying at the hospital overnight.  I will be needing help at home for at least a week and that's the week between now and when Joy and Bryan come.  Nita will be here soon to take me to the hospital, surgery will be about noon.  I will have Nita and Marilyn as my home-help.  So grateful for friends to help. I have to learn to be the patient now, and that comes hard for me.

I don't know how soon they (Nita and Marilyn) will allow me to get back to my computer, so I can't guarantee a time for any updates or communication forthcoming.  Perhaps one of them will do the honors.  I do not anticipate any problems ... I know Who holds tomorrow .... and I KNOW He holds my hand!

Jane, I pray for your peace and for the wisdom and ability of the doctors.  Surprising you'll be set home so fast, but I know Nita and Marilyn will be happy to be with you.

God bless!

I just thought I'd come in and update everyone quick ... to do that, I am going to post what Aunt Pat put on her Facebook page a few days ago (Nov 10).

Just an update for those who are asking...
What a traumatic happening a week and a half ago. I'm so happy that I was speaking to my sister, Judy, when I had this stroke. I'm not sure what the outcome would have been if I hadn't been speaking to her. I'm thankful to God for that. I've been through lots of various tests (Brain CT scan, carotid artery scans, etc.) every day last week and now I await the phone call to start some more including dye in my brain, 28 day Holter test, Echo, etc. I'm fine. I've been surrounded by my family and my niece, Heather, who have all been so lovingly "bossy" to their mum and aunt! I'm in the hands of my loving Savior and He does all things well. I just thank you all for your prayers on my behalf. I've been warned by all who are caring for me (doctors, nurses, family members) to never wait again to get to the hospital as the outcome could have been worse. frown emoticon But I didn't really think it was that serious. 

Heather, thank you so much for this update from your aunt.  Let her know, please, that she is loved and missed and prayed for.

PS - I'm copying that message and posting it in S&F and in the Cafe, just in case other folks like me don't follow Facebook.  :-)

It's so nice to come in and find chatty messages from several of you!  Way to go!  The weather has decided to be nice for a while yet, and I'm agreeing with that!

We decided we'd better get back to the gym today.  I have been sore and stiff, every time I sit for a few minutes, when I get up I can barely get going.  Ugh.  We have an app't with Dr. Rosin this afternoon, and I have a list of questions for him, concerning both me and Beth.  She is exhibiting some changes that are worrisome to me.  I have to remind myself often that God is in control!!

Carol, I pray Don will feel better and stronger and you will have a pleasant and uneventful trip back home.  Prayers go with you--and yes, you are loved! 

Heather, thanks for putting Pat's post in here.  I did see it on FB and told them in here at least part of it, but it's better to read it in Pat's own words.  I told her that we women usually don't believe it is THAT serious!  But sometimes, it is!

Jane, you are surrounded by our love and prayers today, and even better, by the love of your Father.  You are in good hands!  And we expect a good report from you or Nita or Marilyn!

Larry, blessings to you today!  I hope you get a wonderful surprise!

The daily chats in here are so very uplifting to read.  "Great is Thy Faithfulness"! 

Thank you so much everyone for your prayers on my behalf during this time.  I'm just so very, very thankful that I was speaking to Judy on the phone when it happened.  I've got tests ahead of me.

Pray that the Lord will give me peace.  I find that I'm just overwhelmed by all that's happened and also the speed by which they have been dealing with things.  Last week I was doing something every day with tests, doctors, etc.

Jane, what a wonderful hymn to put in here.  I love it so much and the words certainly mean so much.  Praying for you dear friend.  So happy that Nita and Marilyn are going to be able to help you.

God bless you richly!

Pat, a very pleasant surprise to see your posts here tonight! 

I just want you to know that while you're going through all these tests and resting I'll try not to break the site.   

Hi everyone on another beautiful day.  It is chilly this morning but is to get in the high 60's this afternoon.  The big activity for today is to go to the library where they are having a book sale that Pat wants to attend.  I will drive her so if there is no parking I can let her out near the door and then find somewhere to park.  I had a very nice day yesterday and Pat fixed a delicious meal of ribs, potato salad and baked beans.  It is also nice that there is enough left over for another meal or two. 

Jane, my thoughts and prayers are with you today as you have your surgery.  It is nice that Nita and Marilyn will provide you assistance for the week after you get home from the hospital.  I know you will be much more comfortable in your own home as you heal.  Where there is a need God provides and as you say we know who holds tomorrow.

Heather, thanks for sharing the information on my dear friend, your aunt.  It sounds like she has gotten great care and so fortunate that Judy recognized the problem and she got to the hospital quickly before more damage could occur. 

Pat, very encouraging to see your posting.  It sounds like you are getting wonderful medical and family care.  I hope you will do what the doctors tell you to and take it easy and give your body a chance to heal. 

I just watched this video, which was so appropriate for this Veteran's week.  I hope you will watch it:  https://www.youtube.com/embed/MjPmmCtHmfE?rel=0

How great to see a post from our dear Pat!  Love and prayers are with you, dear one!

Jeanne, you  do a great job, and I have been remiss in failing to thank you for all you do for this site.  So....THANK YOU!!

Today I paln to pick up the ingredients for the mints for Beth's wedding.  Sweet granddaughter Abby has volunteered to make them for us! 

Prayers for strength and faith are humbly requested.  Beth seems to be failing fast.  John was involved in a vehicle accident--the other driver ran a stop sign and hit him.  I just really need to be able to stay strong, and some days that isn't easy.  I have prayed again this morning over the whole situation, and put Beth once more into His loving care.  I know He loves her, and all His plans for her are good.

Hello, Larry!  We were typing at the same time, but you finished first.  I wish you and Pat a wonderful day!

I came back to thank Larry for posting that video of the Armed Forces Salute.  How wonderful!  Imagine all the hours of practice that must have taken.  I appreciate everything that expresses our gratitude to our Military--they deserve every bit of it.  Thank you, Larry!

At the Veteran's Breakfast the other morning, the high school band kids played each of the branches' marches, and when their song started, the veterans of that branch stood.  It was so nice!

Janet, there is really not much to do here.  This site just kind of slides along and seldom needs any "work" done.   

Jane:  thinking of you - how wonderful for you to have friends watching over you - rest well.

Pat:  I am sure you are about "tested out" - praying for a good rest and recuperation for you! 

Larry:  the video is outstanding.  I'll send it on to Don and a few others.  My brother was sent to Germany instead of Vietnam - where he lost two childhood buddies. 

I finished knitting the infinity scarf for granddaughter.  It really did go on too long.  There is a long list of friends and relatives to call before we drive home and I started that today.  We also had to buy a little can of red paint for the mailbox flag as it was sun-damaged.  There is enough for the entire block of mailboxes so we can offer to paint their flags or give them the paint.  $7 for a tiny tin of paint.  Now it is time to put a pie in the oven for a dinner gathering with a few friends.  Have a good evening!

I'm home and feeling great!  Never had a pain and even all the staff at the hospital were amazed!   

BUT that's not my big news ...... Here's what John posted on Facebook just an hour ago:


Joy's update:

November 13th, 2015
It has been 11 months since Joy's cancer journey began. Several hospital stays, surgery and bi-weekly chemo for her pancreatic cancer which had spread to her liver. She had a PET scan on Wednesday and we met with her doctor today where he gave us shocking but blessed news: the PET scan shows NO sign of cancer. He said that there may still be some cancer cells floating around so she will have two more treatments of chemo to "clean up" remaining cells in her bloodstream.

The doctor says he can't explain the absence of the cancer because for months she has been saying there was no cure. Today he said, "I can't explain it." Well, we can. Our God is great and has done a great healing. The God I love and serve has blessed us greatly with this awesome miracle. Rather than suffering through endless future chemo treatments, Joy has been given a cancer free future. Praise be to God and our Healer, Jesus the Christ!!!!!


We are rejoicing BIG TIME in our family! 

Jane!!! Wonderful news!  TWICE!!!

Praise our wonderful loving father and great physician!

Hi everyone.  What wonderful news Jane regarding your daughter and now how you have responded to your surgery.  To God go the Glory of his wonderful healing power. You certainly have reason for rejoicing. 

Another beautiful morning but much cooler as apparently got down to about 39 degrees last night and the high today will be 61 degrees.  I don't have much on the schedule for today.  I may attend a meeting this morning and then will watch some football this afternoon.  The news from Paris is so frightening as this same thing is certainly possible here in North America.  All these innocent people killed for the sake of killing.  It is so sad.

Glad several of you enjoyed that video.  I can't imagine how much practice that routine must have taken and every move was so coordinated.

Janet, was happy to read on Facebook that you are now free of the E-coli.  Hope you get your strength back before too long.  Certainly concerned to read that you feel Beth is failing. 

Carol, that little can of paint must have had gold flecks in it or something.  Pat mentioned last night she had to pay $1.29 for one onion.  Hope your dinner gathering last night was very enjoyable for you both.

Wonderful news, Jane!  What a great Savior we have!

Continue to take care of yourself too, Jane. 

GLORY!!  HALLELUJAH!!!  What a mighty God we serve!!   I know you are rejoicing BIG time in your family, and we rejoice with you, Jane!

Not only is this wonderful news for all of you, but it inspires and encourages my hope in God for a healing for Beth!!  YES!  You are very blessed, and your unwavering faith has been (and is being) rewarded.

I'm working on getting a few more invitations in the mail, trying to organize the program folder and trying to think of any other details needing attention.  My painting group is meeting today, but I decided to stay home.

Blessings to you all!

Thought y'all might like to see a picture of JOY --- two ways!  Here she is with her response to the doctor's report:


To top it all off ... Joy was scheduled to talk to a group in her community today, to give her testimony.   What a marvelous ending she has to her talk! 

Oh, Glory!  How I wish I could be there to hear Joy's testimony! 

Jane is doing very well. Surprisingly well. I was with her this morning and  emptied the drain bulb for her and prepared her steel cut oatmeal for her breakfast, Nita came over too and brought her a big bouquet of roses. We 3 sat and gabbed for a couple of hours  then Nita and I left so Jane could get some rest and we will go back over in another hour or so to drain the bulb again. She is preparing her own lunch and dinner.  She feels great.

What a wonderful picture of Joy!  Thanks, Jane.  I'm like Janet - I would love to have heard her testimony!   

Marilyn, Thanks for the report about our Jane.  I am so glad you and Nita are available to be there with her. 

Fantastic photo of Joy!  And what a wonderful report of how Jane is doing!  I'm so happy about this.  Thanks Marilyn.

Yesterday I had the CT Angiogram.  When I got there, found out that I'd have a dye I.V.  Got through it ok.  Was glad to get home to lie down.

Next, on Friday or Thursday (can't remember) I'll be having another test and getting the 28 day Holter monitor on.

My goodness, Pat.  I can't imagine how many tests they can give you.  At least they are certainly being thorough and when all is said and done we'll know exactly what happened and why and what to expect in the future. 

Hi everyone on another very chilly but beautiful Sunday morning.  I covered over my plants outside last night as they had indicated we might get a hard freeze last night but it apparently did not happen and the next few days should be OK.

Today is Youth Sunday at church and the young people will be handling all aspects of the combined service we will have today.  Following the service the Youth are providing a meal for the congregation and there will be a goodwill offering basket available to help support the summer mission projects and other activities of the youth.  Every Sunday in Sunday School someone signs up to bring a devotional thought to the class after we sing a couple of hymns and before the lesson.  I volunteered several weeks ago and today is my day and I am looking forward to sharing the devotional thoughts I have selected. 

Jane, what joy I see exhibited on Joy's face and what a testimony she has to share.  Thanks for sharing this with us. 

Marilyn, thanks to you and Nita for helping Jane this week and for bringing us such a good report on Jane's recovery process. 

Pat, very encouraging to see your postings.  Hope each day finds you feeling stronger.  Have you done the Holter monitor before?  Pat used one for 30 days prior to her surgery and has learned that she has a very strong heart.

Jeanne, like you I am glad to see that Pat is getting the tests and medical care she needs. 

Time to start a new "Thoughts".

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