Healthier Packaged Foods - Erin Kelley, MS, RD

Healthier Packaged Foods: Ice cream...cones!: "Ok, I realize I'm getting picky here, since cake-type ice cream cones are akin to Catholic mass communion wafers, which taste like they mixe..."

John 3:20-21, 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14, 1 Peter 2:9-10

John 3:20-21

The New Birth

 ²⁰ For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. ²¹ But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”

2 Thessalonians 2:13-14

 Stand Fast

¹³ But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, ¹⁴ to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

  

1 Peter 2:9-10

The Chosen Stone and His Chosen People

⁹ But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; ¹⁰ who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.

We need to shine bright for our Lord! His son, Jesus Christ, sacrificed his all for us, for our redemption as His Father watched! This is what gives us worth, Jesus' life which was sacrificed for us and in turn we need to shine bright for our Lord. We need to glorify the Lord, rejoice in Him for He has done mighty and great things for us. We are the children of God in a world of darkness and we need to minister His word and shine bright for Him. God has entrusted us to  be the shining light for His son, Jesus Christ! Let's not forget to practice peace as Jesus Christ is peace. Start each new day with our Lord and pray. With this you will practice peace and when unrest or discouragement is at your door you will not be easily upset as you will have the armor of God on. 


Remember to keep your light shining in the name of the Lord and live peacefully with each other. God bless you!

Psalms 91

New King James Version

Psalm 91

"Safety of Abiding in the Presence of God

 ¹ He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
         Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
 ² I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress;
         My God, in Him I will trust.”
         
 ³ Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler
         And from the perilous pestilence.
 ⁴ He shall cover you with His feathers,
         And under His wings you shall take refuge;
         His truth shall be your shield and buckler.
 ⁵ You shall not be afraid of the terror by night,
         Nor of the arrow that flies by day,
 ⁶ Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness,
         Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.
         
 ⁷ A thousand may fall at your side,
         And ten thousand at your right hand;
         But it shall not come near you.
 ⁸ Only with your eyes shall you look,
         And see the reward of the wicked.
         
 ⁹ Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge,
         Even the Most High, your dwelling place,
 ¹⁰ No evil shall befall you,
         Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
 ¹¹ For He shall give His angels charge over you,
         To keep you in all your ways.
 ¹² In their hands they shall bear you up,
         Lest you dash your foot against a stone.
 ¹³ You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra,
         The young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.
         
 ¹⁴ “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him;
         I will set him on high, because he has known My name.
 ¹⁵ He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;
         I will be with him in trouble;
         I will deliver him and honor him.
 ¹⁶ With long life I will satisfy him, And show him My salvation.”"

Where is your dwelling place? Is it with God? Are you resting in the shadow of the Almighty?

We all need to look at ourselves and ask these questions. We need to have faith in God and make Him our constant shield. Read about the unchanging promises He has made us if we choose to follow Him.

May God bless you and your family's

I'm Not WONDER WOMAN BUT GOD MADE ME Wonderful! by Sheila Walsh

Insecurity with one's self:

While going through my calendar I realized how many graduation party's and anniversary party's we are to attend these next three months. I started asking myself, "What am I going to wear?" Which made me realize how insecure I am with what I look like, after talking to someone from the past I really didn't feel comfortable with myself. I opened up Sheila Walsh's book which made me realize that I'm not alone. A lot of us women feel the same way but not all of us have God in our lives. For me, God has always been here with me but have I always been there for Him. That's the question I had to ask my self, because if He was always on my mind, if I did everything in His name I wouldn't feel this way about myself. He asks us to take care of the temple He's given us, our body's. 

Now that I have opened up my eyes again, I can see that God is here for me and will help me to better myself physically. I'm sure glad to know that God will always be here for me, now I need to show Him that I will always be there for Him.  

I recommend Sheila's book to all women! I've taken the first paragraph from Chapter One to share with all of you!

"Insecurity:

I've got nothing to wear!

Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me, get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of  grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly. 

-MATTHEW 11:28-30 (THE MESSAGE) 

I am woman, hear me roar!

-Ray Burton and Helen Reddy, 1972

America is a couples' culture. If you are over the age of twenty-one and not married or heading in that direction, friends and family will attempt to fix you up with Mr. Right. If you are widowed or divorced, it is assumed that Mr. Next is just around the corner......"

I'm Not WONDER WOMAN BUT GOD MAD ME Wonderful! by Sheila Walsh

A Quick Word with Beth Moore

Scripture & Quotations from, "When Godly People Do UnGodly Things."

Change

Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2

We can't change anyone else. We can't even change ourselves. But we can allow God to change us. He can give us courage to put distance between us and any relationship that is a seduction waiting to happen. 

MuddyPuppy's

Gourmet Natural Organic Apple Pie Stars Dog Treats Wheat Free Bulk: "
$4.99
Healthy, Oragnic, All Natural Dog Treats, Wheat Free,Soy Free, Corn Free

This is a Cute Gift wrapped package of 40 treats!Perfect for any size Dog, can be broken for the smaller breeds. Baked Crunchy to promote tatar control. Makes a great gift!

Shelf Life- 10 Months, and no need to keep cold.

Ingredients: rye flour, applesauce, rice flour, oatmeal, rice bran, peanut butter, flax, honey, blueberries, cranberry fiber, dried eggs

Can make any of items in larger amounts, and Love to do custom orders. Convo me with any questions. Combine shipping for a great deal!"

www.avirtuouswoman.org

Heading Home

What Does Love Look Like?

“What does love look like?

“It has the hands to help others.

“It has the feet to hasten to the poor and needy.

“It has eyes to see misery and want.

“It has the ears to hear the sighs and sorrows of men.

“That is what love looks like.”


Love is a verb...

Love gives...the best of time, energy, and possessions
Love walks...alongside, to uphold another
Love acts...to encourage the discouraged
Love offers a hand...up

Love offers a shoulder...for another to cry on
Love believes...the best of another
Love blesses...no matter what
Love honors...one’s spouse

Love supports...when another’s strength is lacking
Love cheers...when laughter is needed
Love praises...rather than tears down
Love comforts...a hurting soul

Love carries...when another’s steps falter
Love commits...to a lasting relationship
Love remains silent...when necessary
Love communicates...with kindness

Love cares...enough to do something
Love shows...grace and mercy

Love in action...“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16 NKJV)

“You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.” ~~Amy Carmichael

“For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.” (1 John 3:11 NKJV)

What does love look like to you?

(This post is part of Christianwriters.com blog chain on the topic of love. See the other entries listed in the left sidebar.)

Joyce Schneider - He Restores My Soul

" He Restores My Soul

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul.

Psalm 23:1-3" continue reading by clicking on the following link

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/He-Restores-My-Soul.html?soid=1101436758261&aid=t621nYOCBUc

General Conference Church of God 7th Day

Conference-wide
Prayer and Fasting

Annual Prayer Initiative
January 15 - February 5, 2011 

"The General Conference’s 2011 Annual Prayer Initiative
will take the form of a Conference-wide Call to
Prayer and Fasting for 21 days, January 15 – February 5.
Fasting is not required of New Testament believers, but it
is a source of rich blessing — an effective weapon of spiritual
warfare available to the church. Jesus’ language, “When you
fast” (Matthew 6:16-18), suggests He expects His followers to
engage in this practice. It is to this end that this time of fasting
has been scheduled.
Fasting, the practice of abstaining from food for a time in
order to focus entirely on the Lord in heartfelt prayer, fi nds
much support in Scripture. Prominent Old Testament characters
such as Nehemiah, Esther, and Daniel fasted during times of
spiritual need and corporate crisis and when making important
decisions, breaking spiritual bondage and oppression, and
seeking God’s favor for His people. In the book of Acts,
fasting is notable in the spiritual formation of the early church.
In both Testaments, prayer combined with fasting resulted
in repentance, revival, restoration, and refreshing for God’s
people, personally and corporately.
Various types of fasts are observed in Scripture, including
absolute -abstaining from both food and water (“Do not eat or
drink for three days, night or day,” Esther 4:16, NIV); normal
- abstaining from food only (“[Jesus] ate nothing during those
days . . . ,” Luke 4:2, NIV); partial -restricting one’s diet to
certain foods (“I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched
my lips,” Daniel 10:3, NIV).
Regardless of the type of fast, careful consideration should
be given to one’s health and any physical and/or medical
concerns that could be compromised by extended periods of
abstinence from food and water. Those dealing with pregnancy,
diabetes, chronic illness, and other conditions are discouraged
from fasting. Should they choose to fast, they must seek
medical advice.
Unlike in previous years, specifi c prayer focus is not provided
for each day, except for Sabbaths when the Church is gathered
corporately. Additional prayer needs are listed, but participants
are encouraged to pray as they are led.

Sabbath, January 15
The Church gathered today provides a unique
opportunity to launch this corporate spiritual exercise
together. Pray that many will be drawn to prayer and
fasting over the next three weeks, resulting in corporate
repentance, renewal, the outpouring of the Spirit, and
God’s supernatural favor upon the Church of God
(Seventh Day) in 2011.
Read Isaiah 58:1-7.

Sabbath, January 22
Pray for corporate renewal through the rediscovery of
God’s Word in its power and centrality in the life of the
Church. For focus, pray through the “Year of the Bible
Declaration,” published in the January-February Bible
Advocate.
Read 2 Kings 22.

Sabbath, January 29
Health, uncommon wisdom, prosperity during drought,
and the restoration of family relationships are promised
in Isaiah 58, that well-known passage dealing with the
fast God delights in and the blessings that flow from our
delight in the Sabbath. Review these blessings and claim
them in prayer.
Read Isaiah 58:8-12.

Sabbath, February 5
Give thanks for the blessings received during this time,
and pray for ongoing spiritual renewal, that the blessings
of the Lord upon the Church will continue unceasingly
and in increasing measure: “Now to Him who is able to
do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think,
according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory
in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever
and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20, 21, NKJV).

Suggested Prayer Needs
• Individual and corporate repentance, and spiritual
renewal.
• Emotional healing, forgiveness, and restoration of
broken relationships.
• Spiritual fortification of families and marriages.
• Breaking of bondages, repairing of breaches,
reversing of curses.
• Revitalization of fledgling congregations.
• Re-energizing of pastors and lay pastors through the
pursuit of personal holiness and walk in the Word,
preaching from the overflow of intimacy with God.
• Spiritual insights into addressing the Church
leadership crisis.
• A sense of calling on a fresh crop of young men and
women to the Church’s vocational ministry.
• Supernatural release of resources for developing the
professional ministry.
• Care and spiritual nurture of the Church’s children
and youth and the bridging of generational barriers.
• Breakthroughs in children’s curriculum development.
• Unity of the Church.
• Battling spiritual apathy and doctrinal confusion.
• Greater organizational accountability and
commitment, and cultivation of a culture of
excellence.
• Guidance and wisdom for board of directors,
executive leaders, and Denver office staff.
• God’s special favor upon the Conference Vision
and the tangible reflection of its values in the life of
the Church: Christ-centered; Bible-based; Sabbathobserving;
Spirit-formed; Distinct, Not Exclusive;
Passionate in Worship; Compassionate in Service;
Aggressive in Witness; Strong in Fellowship;
Committed to Discipleship.
• A new season of fruitfulness.
• Blessings upon this year’s Biennial Convention.
Pray that the Church will experience the blessings of
“prevailing prayer” all year long.
Thanks for praying
Denying our physical appetites in order to address our
spiritual needs, saying no to the flesh so we may say yes
to the Spirit, looking steadfastly upon the Lord by turning
away from our temporal concerns, are keys to unlocking
the resources of heaven. Doing so corporately poises the
Church for uncommon blessings. And doing it early in the
year sets the spiritual course for the remaining months.
The Church of God (Seventh Day) will never be the same
because you prayed. Thank you!

Praying,
Whaid G. Rose
Conference President"

(In)Courage

Left Overs: "

The teller at the bank. The cashier in the grocery store. The gentlemen who held my door open for me. The barista who made my latte. The neighbors down the street. The co-worker a few classrooms away from my own. The contacts in my cell phone. The strangers on a daily basis.

They do not know.

They do not know that the life I currently live consists of a full time job, a fathers terminal sickness, the lack of conversation for over a week and the moans, groans, aches and agony he faces by the minute leading up to his last breath. They do not know of the selfishness I feel as I reminisce and grieve the memories I will never experience. They do not see the despondency in this daughters’ eyes as they hand me a drink, give me a greeting or watch from afar.

But likewise, their story is unknownst to me.

How often do we give our left overs to those whom we come in contact with on a daily basis? How many times than not do we help one another, love one another, serve one another, as long as it be of no inconvenience to our own personal lives, plans and schedules? Isn’t it hypocritical to know that we live in the knowledge of our omnipotent God who is the King of Kings yet treat one another as to less value than we would ourselves? We say we believe in a God and love Him greatly, yet do nothing to live out His following commands. We give less and think more. We write more and preach little. We speak of love, hope, new mercies, sovereignty and peace; yet do a microscopic amount to the furthering of Gods kingdom through our love for eachother.

“Your love for one another will prove that you are my disciples.” John 13:35



When will our leftovers be too little and a 5 course meal become barely enough?

By Aurora Mckeehan, Put on LOVE, Aurora

"

A Virtuous Women

The Revelation of Jesus Christ: "The Book of Revelation: Study #3
The book of Revelation begins with these words: “The Revelation of Jesus Christ…” The book of Revelation is a book about Jesus! Jesus is the main focus of the book – not to mention the entire Bible! Jesus is mentioned by His name or other title, or pronoun – 137 [...]"

5 Minutes for Books

Cute Books for Kids: "

A few weeks ago, a package arrived from Simon and Schuster with two books that appealed to me immediately. The first is I Must Have Bobo!. To give you a little background information, I have a daughter who loves her blankie. White Blankie is practically a member of our family (in fact, my daughter would choose White Blankie over her family sometimes). Since my daughter started kindergarten, White Blankie and my Best Girl have had to separate during the day, and this has not been easy. I had to smile as soon as I started reading I Must Have Bobo!.

Willy, the young boy in the story, has a monkey named Bobo. Bobo helps Willy with everything, and Willy “MUST HAVE BOBO!” Unfortunately, Earl (the cat) also loves Bobo. As you can imagine, this causes friction between Willy and Earl. Whether it is a white blanket or a stuffed monkey, some things are hard to share. Children understand this better than anyone, and this is a story that will make them laugh. The sparse text and simplistically modern illustrations are appealing and add to the humor while leading children to predict what will happen next. If you have a child who has a favorite item or toy, I Must Have Bobo! is sure to be a hit.

The second book, Say Hello to Zorro! is about Mister Bud, a dog whose life is perfect. He has his schedule just the way he likes it. Then, Zorro shows up. Zorro is a bossy little pug who destroys Mister Bud’s idyllic life. When Mister Bud and Zorro find something in common, however, they realize they can survive together and have a little fun at the same time.

Although it is about dogs, Say Hello to Zorro! would be a great book for children who are about to become big brothers and sisters. For a child, a new sibling can be threatening, and a new baby in the house can destroy the comfort of familiarity for a time. This story is funny and would enable a lighthearted discussion about how things change when we welcome new people into our lives. The illustrations and text in this book are also simple, yet appealing. The characters remind me of the dogs from UP, which makes sense considering the author, Carter Goodrich, is an award-winning animator for Pixar.

Both Say Hello to Zorro! and I Must Have Bobo! are fun new books for kids. Be sure to check them out!

Lauren is a wife, mother of two, and an avid reader. She thanks Simon and Schuster for the review copies of these books. Lauren blogs at Baseballs and Bows.

"

The Journey of My Heart

Give God your Whispering Thoughts: "I've needed to take a little blog break to review my book manuscript for final edits, but it's taking much longer than I expected. It's due Friday.

Like most of the southeast, we got LOTS of snow Monday, and the kids have been out of school all week due to ice on the roads still. So it's been a little distracting around here.

Today I went into hiding. For over 8 hours. Only came out to get some kisses and bedtime snuggles with baby girl and have dinner with my bear cubs. Just took a short break tonight since my eyes are crossing as I sit here in my little corner of the world, reading 60,000 words spread across 137 pages. This hibernation is hard for a sanguine girl like me who's been snowed in for days. So, I asked Jesus to meet me in this kinda hard place and speak the words my heart needed to hear. I knew He knew better than I did.

And He gently lead me to this from one of my favorite writers who always knows just what to say and just how to say it:

How do I live in God’s presence? How do I detect his unseen hand on my shoulder and his inaudible voice in my ear? Here are a few ideas:

Give God your waking thoughts. Before you face the day, face the Father. Before you step out of bed, step into his presence.

Give God your waiting thoughts. Spend time with him in silence.

Give God your whispering thoughts. Imagine considering every moment as a potential time of communion with God.

Give God your waning thoughts. At the end of the day, let your mind settle on him. Conclude the day as you began it: talking to God.

Just Like Jesus
~Max Lucado

Give Him your thoughts sweet friends. Each and every one of them.

I'll be back next week,

"

The gospel.com Blog

Today’s devotional: who is this God who is present in our lives?: "

Christians talk a lot about the nearness of God—we take comfort in the fact that “God is with us;” we talk about feeling God’s presence in our lives. But who exactly is this God who is “near” us? The understanding that God is present among us could be comforting or terrifying, depending on the nature of God and the purpose behind that closeness.

Today’s Slice of Infinity devotional talks about this mysterious “nearness,” and explains why God’s watchful presence is encouraging rather than frightening:

There are many who take comfort in the thought that God is among us, comforting our fears, quieting our cries of distress, standing near those who call, moving in lives and history that we might discover the God who is there. Knowing that Christ is with me in struggle and darkness is one of the only reasons I don’t completely surrender to my fears and stop moving forward….

But what good is it if there is a throne but it is empty, a kingdom without a king, a god who is close but like straw? Who is it who is near us? If god is an impersonal force, or a tyrant, or a distant, semi-interested being, the kingdom is no refuge.

The promise of God’s nearness is one that Christians rightfully utter as encouragement and cling to in joy, in fear, and in sorrow, knowing the face and character of the one who is near. When God promises his presence in Scripture it is more than just a promise of proximity and intimacy. There is a purpose for God’s nearness, the pledge of relationship, the promise of community. It is not an empty or superficial presence, having taken on the things humanity itself to draw intimately near.

How do you discern, on a daily basis, God’s presence in your life? How would your life be different if God did not promise to walk beside us in such an intimate way?

"

The Daily Beast

This Week's Best Journalism: "From the Boston Review's history of the shifts in marriage to David Brooks' survey of what brain science is teaching us about human nature, check out The Daily Beast's favorite longform journalism pieces from around the Web this week.
This weekly..."

Take Root and Write

Remembering Who We Are: "

As I was driving to the grocery store one day, the Lord asked me a question: "Do you know who you are?" I was taken back for a minute. This wasn't a question I thought he'd ask. Yet, as I went through the answer in my mind, I realized this question was actually an answer to the petitions I had laid before his feet.

Lately, the enemy had been inflicting a spirit of oppression and depression on me due to a severe blow in my marriage relationship with my husband. But, this question about knowing who I was, was really God coming to my rescue! He was answering my prayers and quite literally saving my sanity.

In the natural, it may have appeared that God was insensitive to my petitions, only answering my questions with a question of his own. I really wanted to whine about him asking me a question. I needed answers and directions, not another question I couldn't answer. But, that attitude was like a poison in my mind.

Because I felt God's answers were not coming fast enough, I had already fallen prey to the enemy's tactic of depression. But, this wasn't God's plan! He had renewal and hope for me through his question, reminding me that my worth was complete through him.

Have you ever wallowed in the winds and waves of this earthly life? Perhaps the pressures of your problems have caused you to forget who you were? Like me, you may have even suffer from low self-esteem.

There is good news women of God! Even in the midst of our circumstances, God reminds us that we are a friend of His (Psalms 8 KJV). He says that we are a royal priesthood; a peculiar people; a holy nation (1 Peter 2:9). And since we are a child of the king, we have access to peace, power and joy that will help us be victorious in striving for oneness in our marriage. Because we have been fearfully and wonderfully made, (Psalm 139:14) we have unlimited supernatural power on the inside of us giving us the ability to do all things through Christ (Philipians 4:13).

When we don't remember who we are in Christ, this allows the enemy trip us up. The goal of Satan is to make us forget who we are. But there is power in our words. If the King dwells inside of me, he dwells and speaks in you too!

With God's question to me, and me understanding that I am complete in Him, it caused me to declare to the enemy in a loud roar "It is over." I repeated this phrase continually until it was in my spirit. I'm certain people driving in their cars next to me were staring at me like I was crazy! But, I didn't care. My spirit was mended and lifted from the graves of hell.

As you begin to realize who you are, your outlook on life, health, home, and yourself will change too. Your confidence will skyrocket because you will be persuaded that nothing can seperate you from the love of Christ. (Romans 8:35) With Him, we are complete; there is nothing lacking. Our true identity is not based on what we have done or cannot do. And the trials and cares of this world do not dictate who we are. As the angel appeared to Gideon in (Judges 6:12) and called him a "mighty man of valor", so I call you mighty women of valor.

Like Gideon, you may have viewed yourself as weak. You may have also been ready to throw in the towel because God was not answering my prayers fast enough. Well He is here! He wants to lift our heavy burdens. Our petitions have been heard so look up mighty women of valor!

Everything I need to be successful in my marriage-- and everything in my life -- is on the inside of me. God will come to your rescue as he did for me. I have to remember to walk in what he has called me to do, right now, and for today. By remembering who we are, we won't forget who we are: complete and wonderfully made in Christ.

"

Proverbs 31 Ministries Daily Devotional

Many Or Few: "

Marybeth Whalen

“Jonathan said to his young armor bearer, ‘Come let’s go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised men. Perhaps the Lord will act in our behalf. Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few.’”

I Samuel 14:6 (NIV)

One woman has meager resources to fund her family’s needs. She operates in the few.

One woman has so many opportunities to serve she feels overwhelmed. She wants to do what God wants, but she can’t figure out how to handle it all. She operates in the many.

One woman wants to pursue a dream she’s been secretly harboring but there never seems to be enough time. She operates in the few.

One woman has lots of extended family members who need her attention and time. She operates in the many.

One woman’s husband has all but stopped talking to her. She misses the love they once shared, even took for granted. He has no time for her and hardly ever looks at her. She operates in the few.

One woman has fears that grip her. She worries about her future, her children’s health, the economy, her marriage. She operates in the many.

What about you? What’s your circumstance? What in your life needs to be saved? You might not be facing a deadly battle like Jonathan and his armor bearer, but one thing I can guarantee, we all need to be saved from something.

Here’s the great part: This verse tells us that nothing can hinder the Lord from saving us in all circumstances—whether we are operating in the category of many or few. We can count on Him to move on our behalf.

So many times I look at my lack and throw up my hands. I only see the limits. Jonathan and his armor bearer were just two men. They knew their limits but they didn’t let that keep them from trusting the Lord to move on their behalf.

Likewise, I can look at my abundance—of demands, of needs, of people, of financial responsibilities—that I need to attend to and let that overwhelm me. I only see the crushing load.

Jonathan chose not to look at the many men facing them, but to turn his eyes to God. He knew God is not hemmed in by earthly circumstance.

Many or few, it matters not. Our security can not come from our situation. Today as you face life’s challenges, look for the few and for the many. Then tell God exactly what Jonathan said: Perhaps You will act on my behalf. I trust what You choose to do. Nothing can hinder You from saving, whether by many or by few.

Dear Lord, I am so grateful that You are not hindered by my circumstances. Help me to look past my lack or my abundance, straight into Your eyes. Help me to realize that You are at work in my many and in my few. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Visit Marybeth’s blog for more encouragement today!

Living Financially Free: Hard Earned Wisdom for Saving Your Money and Your Marriage by Marybeth and Curt Whalen

From Financially Frantic to Financially Free (CD) by Marybeth Whalen

The Mailbox by Marybeth Whalen

---

When you purchase resources through Proverbs 31 Ministries, you touch eternity

because your purchase supports the many areas of hope-giving ministry we provide

at no cost. We wish we could, but we simply can’t compete with prices offered by

huge online warehouses. Therefore, we are extremely grateful for each and

every purchase you make with us. Thank you!

---

Application Steps:

Copy this verse into your journal and then write the statement: “My security can not come from my situation.” Spend time thinking about that today.

Reflections:

What is your few?

What is your many?

How are you letting either keep you from trusting fully in God?

Power Verses:

Zechariah 4:6, “So he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty.” (NIV)

I Samuel 17:47, “All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.” (NIV)

© 2011 by Marybeth Whalen. All rights reserved.

"

Komen News

Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Unties More Than 100 Breast Cancer Survivors, Activists in Paradise: "This weekend, breast cancer survivors and supporters will walk, run and advocate for breast cancer programs for the women of the Bahamas as more than 100 delegates join thousands of others for a weekend of breast cancer advocacy, awareness and support.

"

JournEzine

Israel, Land of Prophesy Come True…: "Another year has passed, and usually I am planning for the coming year and looking forward to all the things that need to be done around our home and farm. This year I am totally focused on Israel. Totally. Last year I concentrated on the Feast Days God commanded Israel to observe and gave the [...]"

JournEzine

Living On Today’s Deposit: "The Psalmist was praying: “Teach us to make the most of our time, so that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). What do you do with your time? Have you ever stopped to think about how much time you waste doing “nothing”? Imagine there is a bank that puts in your account [...]"

Internet Cafe Devotions

Weekend Blend: "

We know the weeks can get away from you! It happens to us! That’s why we’re offering our “Weekend Blend!” A “recap” of our weekly Counter Articles and Daily Devotions!

So this weekend, we invite you to enjoy a sip of what you missed!

Does Your Heart Need To Be Plowed? – Ministry Counter

Nurturing Their Best to Make Them HIS Best – Family Counter

A Child’s Faith When Raised in a Spiritually Mismatched Home – Marriage Counter

Deep Spots – Daily Devo

I’ll be Happier When… – Daily Devo

He Spreads Snow – WFW

In With the Old – Daily Devo

With Bells On – Daily Devo

"

Here's My Cup Lord

Guess What?!!: "

My awesome bloggyfriend Mariel has written a new book and is hosting a giveaway on her blog!

That’s right. You can go to Growing in Godliness for details, and you can even click the book to order directly.

I am so excited for Mariel. Her fist book ladies!!

So, spread the word and join the fun.

"

HealthCorps Blogs

Is It OK to Lift Weights after being Treated for Breast Cancer?: "

A recent study suggests that breast cancer patients who lift weights are less likely to develop a painful condition called lymphedema. This condition can occur after a breast cancer patient has surgery, especially if lymph nodes are involved.

read more

"

HealthCorps Blogs

How about a Plant-Based Low-Carb Diet?: "

Though some meat-based high protein, low carbohydrate diets remain popular, the meat component of the diet is still a problem for some health experts.

read more
"

Heading Home

Hearing the Voice of God: "***As my daughter is visiting, I haven’t been able to finish a new post. So, I am sharing with you an article that I wrote a few years ago for our church paper. At the time, Celebration was the church’s Wednesday night service.***

Recently, as my husband and I were leaving the sanctuary after Celebration, we were stopped and asked if we would counsel with a deaf couple. As Decision Counselors (now called Decision Guides), we have never counseled with the deaf. Even though I had taken sign language classes, we both felt a little apprehensive and, yet, at the same time, we felt challenged. God will always give us His strength when we are weak. And we really needed His strength!

With hand gestures flowing rapidly from one person to another, our interpreter spoke to the young couple seated before us. We had the privilege of counseling with Grace and Sam. Being part of a conversation with the hearing impaired is a very humbling experience. In this situation, Norman and I were indeed the handicapped ones.

Grace and Sam wanted to talk to counselors about being baptized. They shared about their salvation and love for the Lord. They will be married soon and they wanted their lives to be in covenant with the Lord. So, at a recent Saturday night service, they came to church to be baptized.

All those to be baptized came into the baptismal as a group. As Grace and Sam waited their turn, Dave Stone [our pastor] baptized the others first, and as each one went under, Sam raised his hand in praise to the Lord. What a glorious sight!

As their friends and Grace’s father looked on, Dave baptized this precious couple. Teary eyed, I sat riveted to my seat as we, along with the congregation, witnessed the outward expression of their inward confession, as an interpreter conveyed the message of Dave’s words to Grace and Sam. Their hands then waved the sign for praise. What a privilege to have been a part of this.

After the service, we told Grace and Sam that we loved them and would be praying for them. We all hugged and said we would see each other later. In total silence, Norman and I walked up the aisle, hand in hand; our hearts too full of God’s goodness to break the spell with words.

Walking through the parking lot, I broke the silence by saying, “I’m totally amazed how awesome God is. He hears us even when we have no voice to speak to Him. He knows the voice of His children. He hears us no matter what our handicap.”

On the ride home, I tried to imagine a world of total stillness, but I could not imagine my life without ever having heard my grandmother sing The Old Rugged Cross. (My grandmother has been dead for almost forty years, yet, to this day, I still cannot sing it without crying and thinking of her.)

I could not imagine never experiencing the joy of hearing my children call me Mommy. I could not imagine never having my soul touched by the sounds of my husband telling me that he loves me. I could not imagine never being afforded the luxury of hearing the name of Jesus preached in a sermon.

Yet, at the same time, I could only imagine my auditory nerves never being blasted by the sounds of hard rock or rap music, or people arguing, or the dog whining, or the garbage language in movies. Oh, to imagine that none of these had the ability to invade my world! I could have an uninterrupted quiet time with the Lord, anytime, anywhere. He hears us no matter what our handicap – or situation.

I pray God will lay His hand of blessing on Grace and Sam and that He will always be the center of their lives. Sam mentioned after the service that he wished to be used of the Lord. The interpreter told him that the Deaf Taskforce needed someone to teach a Bible study class. Go for it, Sam! God will always use those with willing hearts as His instruments.

~Oh, Lord, thank You for allowing us to be used as those instruments that sit in readiness at Your feet. Only You know what our capabilities are and what we can accomplish. You would not send us out unless You thought we were fit for the task.

Thank You that You bend low with Your hand cupped to Your ear, waiting patiently to hear the melodies of praise from our hearts. I praise You that You use the Holy Spirit as Your tuning fork to fine-tune us for Your service. Your harmony is the sweetest when played on those instruments that lay closest to Your feet. May we be so close to Your feet that we always hear Your Still Small Voice.~~

"

Happy, Healthier You

6 Natural Fertility Boosters: "Whether you’re ready to get pregnant right now or don’t plan on having kids for a decade or more, experts say that how you live your life today can optimize your future fertility and even the healt"

Happy, Healthier You

Burn 300 Calories in 15 Minutes: "Shorter, smarter workouts are always a winner in my book—who doesn’t want to <a title="melt more"

ED.gov blog

National Youth Summit: Leading the World in College Completion: "President Obama has set a goal that by 2020 the United States lead the world in college completion. Over the summer the U.S. Department of Education (ED) conducted a National Youth Listening Tour (NYLT) to engage youth in a conversation on what it will take to meet the President’s goal. ED met with over 40 [...]"

Christian Women Online

Who Do You Say I Am?: "

Once when Jesus was praying in private and his disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say I am?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, that one of the prophets of long ago has come back to life.” “But what about you?” he asked, “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “The Christ of God.”

Luke 9:18-20

A.W. Tozer once said, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” What we think about God affects our every thought and our every action. It affects the way we love people, the way we react to situations and the way we feel about our lives. What comes to your mind when you think about God?

Each of us has a different life story. My own journey has been one of many challenges and valleys, but it is in the deepest of these valleys that I first encountered Christ. And it has been on this bumpy road of my life, that I’ve come to know who Christ is – My Savior, my Redeemer, my Prince of Peace, my Lord, my King, my Rock. My Shepherd who takes care of me, my Protector who watches over me. He is my all, both the Lion and the Lamb, Alpha and Omega, beginning and end. He is Counselor and Commander; The Bread of Life and the Word of God…

Emmanuel, God with us.

God with me.

Even now, facing changes and uncertainty, Christ is with me helping me to face each step that I need to take. When I think about the individual journeys that all women face, I think about these women and where they might be at in their walk with God. What story is each of them living? What pain? What fear? What disappointment? What gratitude? What joy? Each one of us comes to God with our own needs and desires; coming in anticipation of meeting with the Creator of the Universe, God Most High, Abba, Father. His Word tells us that if we seek Him, he will be found and I am overwhelmed that God will so lovingly meet each one of us, exactly where we are. He is willing to meet our every need if we let Him.

Our history shapes our image of who we believe God to be. Yes, the Bible tells us who He is, and by faith we believe, but it’s in the intimate moments, as we come thirsty, seeking His face, that we experience His love and power, and it is in these moments that we discover who God is to us.

“But what about you?” he asked, “Who do you say I am?” Luke 9:20

All Scripture NIV

"