tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31335828573746023662024-03-04T20:35:44.562-08:00FOOD FOR THOUGHTJolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.comBlogger186125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-8767873914208573912016-01-19T14:41:00.000-08:002016-01-19T17:58:26.812-08:00 Inbox, Save, Trash, SpamAs I was checking my email in my inbox, I started marking mail as save, trash and spam/junk. The save mail is mail that is of value to me. It holds content that is useful. This is mail that I will return to and use again, often. The mail that has been tossed into the trash is mail that is no longer needed. I have already read it, and taken care of said content. The spam/junk mail is just that. Stuff that is unnecessary garbage that just gets in the way and clutters up my mailbox. It is of no value to me at all. As a matter-of-fact, some of that junk mail can be very damaging and is better off left alone. It needs to be discarded ASAP!<br />
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As I was marking my e-mail and sending each to their perspective places, that Still Small Voice spoke to me and said; "This is how you need to organize the thoughts that enter your mind." I instantly stopped what I was doing and my mind went to several scriptures. The first one being Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." These thoughts are what goes into my SAVE file. They are thoughts that I will return to again and again and often. They are of great value and very useful to me.<br />
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When thoughts enter my mind, I need to check and make sure they are like the thoughts found in Philippians 4:8. Colossians 3:2 says, "Set your minds on things above not on things that are on the earth." (ESV) We need to be careful what thoughts we heed to. Romans 12:2 reads, "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." I need to have the mind of Christ. Philippians 2:5<br />
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If we have thoughts that are not like the thoughts in Philippians 4:8 bombarding our minds, it's time to send them to the spam/junk box. These thoughts are of no value to us. They are just junk mail and unnecessary thoughts clouding our perspective. They can even be harmful to us. We need to discard them ASAP. Ephesians 4:27 says, "and do not give the devil an opportunity to work." 2 Corinthians 10:5 reads, "Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ." We must put on the helmet of salvation like it tells us to in Ephesians 6:17. For it is what protects our minds from the fiery darts of the devil. If I am wearing my helmet of salvation and have Christ living within me, then no junk mail, no thoughts, "No weapon formed against me shall prosper." Isaiah 54:17 Proverbs 23:7 says "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he." I must resist the devil and his junk mail and he will flee. James 4:7 If I want my mind to stay focused and clutter free, then I need to organize all the thoughts of my mind just as I do my e-mail.<br />
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<br />Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-28533643151157921252015-04-30T13:45:00.000-07:002015-04-30T13:45:07.373-07:00WHATS IN YOUR STOREHOUSE?Proverbs 23: 4-5 "Don't wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle. (NLT)<br />
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When I ran across this scripture, it reminded me of the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12: 16-21; "...A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. He said to himself, 'What should I do? I don't have enough room for all my crops.' Then he said, 'I Know! I'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I'll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. And I'll sit back and say to myself, "My friend you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!"' But God said to him, 'You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?' Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a relationship with God." (NLT)<br />
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There is nothing wrong with working hard to have nice things and to provide comfortably for your family. Matter of fact the bible says in 1Timothy 5:8; "But if any man provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel " (KJV)<br />
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Where the wrong comes in is when our possessions begin to posses us, our time and our energy. Think about it! What is your driving force? Your treasure? Tearing down barns to make bigger barns to store your wheat and other goods or are you laying up your treasures in heaven? Are you striving to have that relationship with God? Matthew 6:19-21 says; "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (KJV) Question......Where does your heart lie?<br />
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Isaiah 33:6 "And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is his treasure." (KJV) What's in your storehouse? Where is your storehouse located? Heaven or earth? What kind of treasures are you storing away? Oh Sweet Jesus! Wisdom and knowledge is my stability, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is my treasure! I must never lose this. I must always take inventory of what is in my storehouse. I must make sure that I am storing up the correct treasures that cannot be destroyed by moth nor rust, and where thieves cannot break through and steal.<br />
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Matthew 6:33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." (KJV). When I put Him first and foremost in my life, all my needs WILL be met. He will help me through every situation that comes my way, financially, physically, mentally, and spiritually, whatever the need may be. I do not need to wear my self out trying to get rich in order to supply my needs or wants. Not when I know the Way-Maker, the Provider, the Peace Speaker, the Healer, Jesus, my Friend, my Lord and God, my Savior.<br />
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Don't wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. Don't store up earthly wealth but rather seek after a relationship with God.Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-73371744020812722152014-09-29T19:14:00.002-07:002014-09-29T19:14:21.569-07:00MOVED WITH COMPASSION<br />
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When preparing for yesterday's Sunday School lesson, I noticed that before
Jesus fed the 5,000 with 2 fish & 5 loaves, he had just received the
news that John the Baptist, his cousin, had just been beheaded. He was
sorrowful in heart and had left by boat to an out of the way place to be
alone to deal with his agony and pain. I can imagine how he was feeling at this time, to lose a loved
one, a family member, and in such a horrific way. But someone noticed
that Jesus was in the area and soon word spread and the crowds gathered.
The bible says that when Jesus looked upon them he was moved with
compassion. Even in the midst of all of his own heartache, pain,
suffering and agony, Jesus put his own needs and hurts aside to meet the
needs of those that were hurting and suffering around him. He began to
reach out and work wonders and miracles in their lives that day. Oh to
have compassion like Jesus. No matter how much I'm suffering, hurting,
dealing with heartache and sorrow, God help me to be more like you. Help
me to reach out to the brokenhearted, to those who are suffering, to
those who need someone to care. After all, I'm suppose to be a
Christian and Christian means Christ-Like. To be more like you, that's
my desire.Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-23817906033422920992013-04-25T14:14:00.001-07:002013-04-25T14:39:20.091-07:00You Say God/Church Is Just A Crutch?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Someone told me that God/Church is just a crutch for the weak. Yes, I agree. I am weak but Thou Art Strong! At times, when life hits me hard, I lean on God and the prayers of the church to help get me through. That is where I find my strength. When you break your leg, you use crutches or sometimes a wheelchair don't you? Well, when life throws things at me and breaks me, I use my crutches too. God and the prayers of the Church are my crutches! I lean on God when I am broken for He heals the broken hearted. When I feel I can't take another step, I lean on Him and He helps me to walk on. He gives me the strength that I need to carry on. He is my strength when I am weak. But He is not only my crutch, at times, God becomes my wheelchair. When the storms of life knock me off my feet and cripple me to the point that I don't even have enough strength to stand, that's when I need a wheelchair. God then swoops down and lifts me into His arms and carries me until I'm strong enough to stand again. He holds me close and lets me know that everything will be OK. He has it all under control. I rest in His arms until I am strong enough to stand again. When I am strong enough to stand and walk again, He walks with me and talks with me. He NEVER leaves me alone. <br />
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God is more than a crutch and a wheelchair to me. He is my Bright and Morning Star. He is the Lily of my Valley, My Shelter in the time of storm, the Joy of my soul, the Song that I sing, the Breath that I breathe. He is the wind beneath my wings. He is Joy unspeakable and full Glory, the Hope of my Life, the Peace Speaker. He is the Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. He is the ROCK that I run to. Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Oh let me hide myself in thee! He is a SURE Foundation. A Prayer Answering God! He Is the Lover of my soul. He's my Everything, My Friend that is ALWAYS there when I need Him. He has NEVER failed me or forsaken me. He is FAITHFUL! He is GOD And I know Him by name.....JESUS!!! <br />
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God is just a crutch, you say? I guess you're right and I'm leaning on His Everlasting arms!Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-62716192723340798342013-04-13T13:51:00.000-07:002013-04-13T13:51:58.929-07:00HOUSEKEEPING<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is nothing like a nice clean house! It smells so fresh and looks so nice and pleasant. But a house does not clean itself. If you want a clean house, it takes work to get it clean and more work to keep it that way. It is a never-ending chore. When you wake-up the next day I guarantee there will be more work one will have to do to get the house back in order. More than likely, you will have to repeat some of the work you just did the day before. To have a really clean house, there will be times you will have to do some deep cleaning. Surface cleaning will not get the job done. Sometimes you have to get down on your hands and knees to scrub the baseboards. The walls at times need some scrubbing and maybe even some new paint. The carpet will need to be shampooed, and the cupboards need to be cleaned out. Drawers and closets need to be gone through and set into order. Windows and window seals need to be washed inside and out. Yes, there is more to cleaning house than surface cleaning. I remember watching my mother with an old toothbrush and comet, scrubbing around the base of the toilet near the floor to make sure it was clean and sanitized. I remember her scrubbing down the trash can and the wall behind it in the kitchen. Her children have picked up several of her cleaning habits. Even some of her grandchildren have picked up those cleaning habits. </div>
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The other day Kerrie noticed some strange things on her clothing in the closet. Wondering what it was, she began to take a closer look. She discovered she had moths in her closet and they were laying eggs in her clothing. It was time to clean out the closet! Those critters can cause a lot of damage if you don't get on it right a way. Thank goodness they were only in the one closet and nowhere else in the house. Although we do this every year, this made me understand the concept of Spring Cleaning a lot more. We were really at it to get rid of those critters. </div>
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Our Spiritual House is just like our earthly house! If we want the LORD to abide within us, then we MUST KEEP IT CLEAN!!! He loves a fresh smelling place that looks nice and pleasant to dwell in too. Like our earthly house, our Spiritual House does not clean itself. We have to keep it clean. Surface cleaning will not get the job done. It's going to take hard work to get it clean and keep it that way. Like our earthly house, we will have to clean our Spiritual House DAILY. Sometimes we are going to have to get down on our hands and knees and do some scrubbing. We might have to scrub off the trash of the world that has splattered onto the walls of our soul and into the thoughts of our hearts. We will have to take that fine tooth brush of prayer and bible reading out and do some scrubbing in the nooks and crannies of our hearts. You need to make sure there is nothing lurking where it ought not to be. One has to search the cabinets and drawers of the heart, making sure there is nothing stored in there that shouldn't be there. Get rid of anger, frustration, bitterness, unforgiveness, jealousy, and anything else that is not of GOD. We will need to scrub the windows of our soul to make sure we can see clearly. Clean the carpet of your soul. Make sure you are still walking on the right path. Go through your prayer closets! Make sure you don't have any moths in there laying eggs of doubt, deceit, confusion, depression, oppression, etc, that can bring you down and destroy your Spiritual House. We need to keep our House Clean but it will take work on our part. Our children and grandchildren are watching us. What kind of example are we to them. What kind of a Spiritual HouseKeeper are we teaching them to grow up to be? </div>
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Psalm 51: 2 "Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin."<br />
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Psalm 51:7 "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow."<br />
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Psalms 51:10 " Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-59173600069230150672013-02-21T00:47:00.000-08:002013-02-21T00:47:21.861-08:00Consider The Voice You Heed!When I was in the 4th grade, my mother grounded me. I can't remember what for but I do know she was very upset with me, therefore the reason for my being grounded. Now, I find that odd for I know I was the perfect child. Don't ask any of my three brothers or my sister if this is true because I'm sure they have a different opinion of my behavior as a child. That's OK, they never could tolerate my perfection.....jealousy, you know. Whatever it was that I was in trouble for, one of my cousins was involved, yet she didn't seem to be in trouble, well not in the degree like I was. I remember her coming into my room and telling me how horrible my mom was for grounding me. I agreed! The more she talked, the madder I got at my mom. Oh, my cousin knew how to stir up a hornet's nest. She was good with words. She had me convinced that I had done absolutely nothing wrong and I was being so mistreated. If she was me she would pack her bags and run away. She would show my mom a thing or two. Why, she would even run away with me. Before I knew it, I had packed a few things and I was sneaking out the back door and I was on my way to freedom. Yes, I was heeding to the voice of my cousin and I was running away. I was going to show my mom a thing or two. I was going to teach her that she couldn't ground me and get away with it. I was so excited. That excitement didn't last very long. We had only gone about three blocks when my steps became slower and heavier. <br />
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The further I got away from home the colder I felt inside. My mind was racing. I began to think about all the good things about home and momma. My warm bed at night. Momma's good cooking and those three delicious meals and snacks I got every day. My clean laundry that momma worked hard to keep done up for me. Her comforting arms that were there for me when I was sick or scared. Just knowing that she would be there to protect me. Then I just stopped dead in my tracks. My cousin turned around, looked at me, and asked what was wrong. I told her I had changed my mind and I wanted to go home. She asked me if I was crazy and if I had lost my mind. Funny, I had been asking myself the same questions. I turned around and ran as fast as I could for home. When I got there, I went straight to my room, put everything away, went and found momma, and hugged her as tight as I could. I told her I loved her. I don't think she knew what I had done, but I sure was glad to be home. I was willing to take my correction for whatever it was I did wrong. All I knew was, I was home, momma loved me, I loved her, and she knew what was best for me. In momma's house I was safe. <br />
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You know if we are not careful, we will heed to the wrong voices and they will lead us astray. Sometimes those voices will even come from within the family. A family member who is disgruntled with the pastor, the pastor's wife, or other saints in the church. Given the opportunity that family member (saint) in the church will look for another family member (saint) who is down and begin to weave contention with very subtle words. They will begin to tell them how wrong they have been treated. How horrible the person is that did this or said this. They will sow cords of discord among the brethren and even go as far as suggesting that the grass is greener on the other side. That it would be better if they "Ran Away". If one is not careful to the voice you heed, then that voice will drive you away from "The House of God!" Away from the man of God who prays for you, fast for you, cares for you. That voice will drive you away from the one who watches over your very soul. The one who fights to protect you from all evil that comes against you, who feeds you spiritually. It will drive you from the House where you feel the protection of the Gods arms around you. Take heed and consider the voice that you listen to. If it is driving you from the House of God then it is the wrong voice. Stay in the house where you are loved. Stay in the house where your pastor and God knows what is best for you. Stay in the house where you will be safe. Consider the voice you heed! Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-79786188694007570862012-09-28T11:58:00.000-07:002012-09-28T11:58:19.763-07:00Exercising Our Spiritual Muscles <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have been going to Physical Therapy due to the back surgery I had in June. I was down for six weeks before the surgery. Then it was another three months after surgery before they allowed me to start therapy. I did a lot of walking on my own around my home outside with a walker for several weeks. As I got stronger I was able to put that walker aside and use my cane. It wasn't long after that, and I was able to put that cane aside, and I was walking on my own. After my strength was built up, and was more stable on my feet, I started walking on the treadmill. You see, the doctors said I would be down for 4 to 6 months. I was determined to get stronger faster than they said. So I took it upon myself to just simply walk daily. Even if it was slowly! But I walked and I got stronger and stronger every day. The Neurosurgeon was amazed at how fast I was improving. I was doing things at 2 months that he didn't expect from me until 4 months. <br />
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When I started Physical Therapy I was shocked when they told me that my back muscles were like mash, reduced to pulp, fleshy tissue. Due to the fact that I have had several fusions, I'm not allowed to bend or do any lifting at this time, so all my exercising and strengthening of my back muscles have to come from exercising my legs and abdomen. Believe it or not, after working out these muscles, I do feel it in my back. All the leg stretches, lifts, presses and so on, actually targets my back muscles as well. I feel great after a workout. I find it is much easier to start my day off with my leg stretches before getting out of bed. It works out the aches and pains and I can move much easier. Then if I hit the treadmill first thing after I wash my face and brush my teeth, I'm sure to have a much better day. But if I don't exercise on any given day, I always feel sluggish and ache all over. I don't want to move because it just hurts to much. All day I have aches and pains and I'm a miserable person. <br />
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I was thinking about this and it is no different in our spiritual life. If we don't exercise daily by Praying, our spiritual muscles will turn to mash, be reduced to pulp. We will become sluggish in our walk with Him. Our spirit will begin to ache and we won't want to move and we will become miserable people. We won't have the strength to stand against the fiery darts that come against us. We won't have the power or strength to fight off temptations, worldly lust and desires when they come our way. Our attitudes will not be Godly attitudes. We become impatient, hateful, short tempered, lustful, easily offended, lackadaisical, unthankful, unholy, disrespectful, etc. That's why Paul said in 1st Corinthians 15:31; "I die daily", meaning through prayer, he dies out to his flesh, his will and desires and gives way to the will of God. He is strengthening his spiritual muscles so that when things come against him he will have the strength to stand and not fall to temptation.<br />
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Reading the Word of God is another way to exercise our spiritual muscles. David said in Psalm 119:11 "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." When we read the Word of God, we are growing strong in Him. When sin and temptation comes against us, we can use the Word that we have hid in our heart to fight off that temptation. Through the Word of God and Prayer we have built up the strength that we need to fight a good fight. Ephesians 6:10-17 reads "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." <br />
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As much as we need to exercise daily physically, we also need to exercise daily spiritually. I was determined to grow stronger physically so that I could stand and walk on my own without the assistance of a walker or cane. I'm determined to build my muscles up in my back as well. It will take a lot of hard work and exercise but I have to work at it to succeed. I'm just as determined to stand one day and say as Paul did in 2 Timothy 4:7 I have fought a good fight; I have finished my course; I have kept the faith." I must die daily to do so. I must exercise my spiritual muscles and keep them strong through prayer and the Word of God.Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-20928522314195517392011-10-08T16:11:00.000-07:002011-10-08T18:06:32.787-07:00Now I Know How God Feels!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPiDN60s1lbOA6ugjmhLreUq1xs0VsrY5uwDEg_favh-XVazBk4WuiDq44UvzVyT0q6Z0D2xyOhn3q71pEfwSs6FyXiB3zZZ9GirehgmhgjakSeFKnPlwnabvpfVu-BfdLjvx7J7SLpek/s1600/phone"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPiDN60s1lbOA6ugjmhLreUq1xs0VsrY5uwDEg_favh-XVazBk4WuiDq44UvzVyT0q6Z0D2xyOhn3q71pEfwSs6FyXiB3zZZ9GirehgmhgjakSeFKnPlwnabvpfVu-BfdLjvx7J7SLpek/s400/phone" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661291545785483618" /></a><br /><br />The other day I wanted to talk with my family and friends. I had something I wanted to share with them. But everyone I called would not answer their phones. Now I'm beginning to understand how God feels. He calls out our name. He too, has something He wants to share with us and He wants to spend time with us...........yet we're to busy doing other things and we don't answer.............<br /><br />I called my sister three times but she was busy doing other things and really didn't have the time to talk to me. Yeah, she called me back. Said she was "BUSY" combing her hair. She even text me some pics until she had time to talk to me. LOL!!! But my point is, she was still to busy to answer my call. Combing her hair, brushing her teeth, Excuses, Excuses......Busy doing other things....just no time to talk when I call........Like I said....Now I know how God feels.........What excuses do we give when He calls to talk to us? <br /><br />I then tried calling my best friend, Patty and her phone rang and rang and rang. She was home but she never heard it ringing. Just too busy doing other things......it really makes me stop and think.......How many times Has God called for me to spend some time to talk with Him and I was to busy? Has there been times when He called me and I was so busy I didn't hear Him calling? I better make sure I am in tune with that still small voice of God. I don't want to miss His call. <br /><br />I tried calling my youngest daughter twice and she too, did not answer. All I got was her voice mail. When God calls us what does He get? Do we answer or does He get a busy signal, our voice mail, or do we just let the phone ring? Think about it?<br /><br />I thought to myself, How many times has God called to speak to me and yet I was to busy to stop to talk to Him for a few moments? How many times have I been so busy that when He called, I didn't hear Him? <br /><br />My sister called me back as well as my best friend Patty, and my daughter when she got off of work. But when my sister called me back, I was busy with the baby and really couldn't talk, so I had to call her back after the baby was taken care of. I thought about my sister's return call. When she called me back, I was then to busy to talk to her. What "IF" God would be to busy for our return calls? He has called out to us so many times and we don't answer. We let the phone ring, or we let it go to voice mail, or He gets a busy signal and we think nothing of it. We will get back to God in our own good time. But what "IF" in our own good time is when we REALLY need Him and then He should be to busy to answer? I'm glad He is not like us! But don't take Him for granted.....One day you just may cry out to Him in need and He won't be there to answer your call. "And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always strive with man…" Genesis 6:3<br /><br />Jesus is calling you today! Won't you answer Him? "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." Revelation 3:20<br /><br />"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: "John 10:27<br />Do you hear his voice today? Are you in-tune with Him? Are you following Him? He's NEVER to busy for you, Please don't be to busy for Him. Answer when He calls.<br /><br />Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth.Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-12796846506573140752011-10-06T10:12:00.000-07:002011-10-06T10:56:00.866-07:00Cleanliness....Is It Next To Godliness?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqSsfbK49E68jxzrRc4BwhYAwsL6Uxa1aIjMzAUQ8tlk2AtFLAYlpXrUPOy1_g9tzkk8K0cvFRuufOgX8zNWypPFzFDEWYyj4NcmaQm7rVQAdJ9I5KAj1zysewM9MQnpAqNQI0nQf80W6_/s1600/washing+hands.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqSsfbK49E68jxzrRc4BwhYAwsL6Uxa1aIjMzAUQ8tlk2AtFLAYlpXrUPOy1_g9tzkk8K0cvFRuufOgX8zNWypPFzFDEWYyj4NcmaQm7rVQAdJ9I5KAj1zysewM9MQnpAqNQI0nQf80W6_/s400/washing+hands.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5660436400404212338" /></a><br />Today's bible reading really caught my attention. The reason being is I have seen people who are guilty of both parties of what goes on in this chapter. I must say that I have even been guilty of thinking "How gross!" After reading todays WORD, I have a new outlook on this whole aspect.<br /><br />Matthew 15: "Some Pharisees and teachers of the law came to Jesus from Jerusalem and asked why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They don't wash their hands before they eat?" Question - How many times have we looked upon people with disgust because we watched them eating with dirty hands and/or they were dressed beneath our standards, dirty and smelly? Think about it.......passing judgment on them?<br /><br />Jesus replied, “And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition? For God said, ‘Honor your father and mother’ and ‘Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death.’ But you say that if anyone declares that what might have been used to help their father or mother is ‘devoted to God,’ they are not to ‘honor their father or mother’ with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: <br /><br />“‘These people honor me with their lips, <br />but their hearts are far from me. <br />They worship me in vain; <br />their teachings are merely human rules.’” <br /><br />Jesus called the crowd to him and said, “Listen and understand. What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them.” Then the disciples came to him and asked, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?”<br /><br />Let me say right here, that many times I have seen people get offended over the preached Word of God. Over what thus, is Written in the Book of Life. They got offended when Jesus spoke, and there are those who still get offended today when the preacher speaks. Why? Because it reveals who they really are, and what they are really doing. The WORD gets down to where they are living and they don't like it.<br /><br />He replied, “Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. Leave them; they are blind guides. If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit.” Peter said, “Explain the parable to us.” “Are you still so dull?” Jesus asked them. “Don’t you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them. For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man 'unclean'; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him 'unclean.'"<br /><br />Hmmmmm..........I think it's time we clean up our OWN hearts and our OWN speech before we pass judgment on the one's with dirty, smelly clothing and unwashed hands. <br /><br />Remember Matthew 15:20 the next time you sneer at someone eating with unwashed hands. Someone you consider beneath you. Stop and check your heart real close.....you just might have a few things that needs cleaning out yourself.<br /><br />"For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man 'unclean'; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him 'unclean.'<br /><br />So back to the title...Cleanliness.....Is It Next To Godliness? When it comes to our heart I say yes!<br /><br />"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." Psalm 51:10Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-1419800997818150132011-08-31T08:55:00.000-07:002011-08-31T09:01:07.753-07:00Over My Head ~ Brian Littrell (lyric video)I had never heard the following song before yesterday, yet when I heard it, I was instantly reminded of my Pastor's message this past Sunday evening. It was out of Ezekiel 47:1-6. This song goes along with my prior post. It speaks well of how I feel. I do believe that God is definitely calling me into deeper waters. Yes, a deeper walk with Him. I want to be in "Over My Head" in Him.
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<br />Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-72117089157593195212011-08-29T11:20:00.000-07:002011-08-29T11:29:26.985-07:00Deep Sea Diving!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqTpHnnyxT2RBz4oHHN5SiibFDZ5zi72HK9ZXMP8pfidNzf5LRCLPFTA-KrDKNeDBluZYtiekOUCe0MMWxpWI2JzTmDH6XcTcV0IaigM0SIvzVYR-cwKnzpTQVTZFckAp1s2MHfiY5vQG/s1600/Diving+Deeper.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 144px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqTpHnnyxT2RBz4oHHN5SiibFDZ5zi72HK9ZXMP8pfidNzf5LRCLPFTA-KrDKNeDBluZYtiekOUCe0MMWxpWI2JzTmDH6XcTcV0IaigM0SIvzVYR-cwKnzpTQVTZFckAp1s2MHfiY5vQG/s400/Diving+Deeper.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646345027559172818" /></a>
<br />I can't get last night's message out of my head & heart. It keeps echoing through out my inner being. I was sitting here thinking about that message & I thought about my son & Amalia, who loves to go deep sea diving. They have shared pictures & treasures of things they have brought back from their adventures from the deep floor of the ocean. Oh the wonders they have seen & experienced & shared just by going out into the deepest of waters. Such beauty, wonder, & awesomeness that can only be experienced by going into the deep waters. I have seen the look in their eyes as they talk about their experiences in the deep waters. Their eyes light up with excitement. They wanted to go deep sea diving so bad that they took the courses that were required. They bought the needed equipment for the deep waters. They did whatever was necessary, so they could enjoy the experience of the deep & the beauty it had to offer.
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<br />That is the same with us in the spirit. If we want to enjoy the deep waters then we must prepare ourselves. We must train for it. It takes prayer, DAILY. Reading of the WORD. We must do this to the point that we become saturated in HIM. This is how we get the needed equipment for deep sea diving, & the courage to jump in and let go and let God have control. This is how we let the Spiritual current take us where it will. The deeper we go in God the greater treasures we will find. There will be more beauty to see. Beauty that will leave us awe struck. Like my son & Amalia, we will want to collect these wonderful treasures and hold onto them for they are valuable to us. Then we will want to share them with others. We to, will want to tell others about what we have found. When we talk about what we have seen and found, our eyes will light up and shine for we have been to the deep waters in God.
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<br />Ezekiel 47:1-6 Thank you Pastor for an Awesome message!
<br />Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-50922911438243949502011-06-18T12:10:00.000-07:002011-06-18T13:20:36.629-07:00Restoration & Salvation - Part Two"My name is Esther. I am a queen, but most importantly I am a Jew." ~UnKnown~ <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEStMyckDmEra80y5IdWpjeRT-cDWyCSyefgJ1S_gNarduYYrLJ3aapojdJZcCQ1HBTeU31Wqg1WFMl88lWBc9RbNOfLJLWdfguLrxlxIZjc2K6ydeHe67WNhFaarvDA802sSFnc4JrQCl/s1600/esther%252520crown.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 237px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEStMyckDmEra80y5IdWpjeRT-cDWyCSyefgJ1S_gNarduYYrLJ3aapojdJZcCQ1HBTeU31Wqg1WFMl88lWBc9RbNOfLJLWdfguLrxlxIZjc2K6ydeHe67WNhFaarvDA802sSFnc4JrQCl/s320/esther%252520crown.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619653670385464274" /></a><br /><br />Ruth & Queen Esther, My two favorite women of the Bible. One brought Restoration & the other brought Salvation. <br /><br />In Shushan the palace there was a certain Jew whose name was Mordecai who had been carried way from Jerusalem by an enemy army. He raised his younger cousin Esther for her parents had died. <br /><br />King Xerxes threw a grand banquet. When he sent for Queen Vashti she refused to come. So the king was counseled to replace her as queen to let women everywhere know that this kind of conduct would not be tolerated. There would be no disrespect and discord allowed. So he set out to find a new queen. Esther was chosen as the new Queen. <br /><br />Although Esther had been chosen to be Queen, she had two strikes against her. One, she was a female and two, she was a Jew. It was forbidden for anyone to approach the king without an invitation, yet an evil prime minister named Haman was plotting to kill off all the Jews. Esther's cousin Mordecai's plea to intervene meant risking her own life. It took courage for Queen Esther to take a stand.<br /><br />God appoints for His purpose. "And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14) <br /><br />Though Esther knew that it could cost her her very life if she went before the king without being summoned, she also knew that if she didn't, all the Jews, including herself were going die. So after she and the Jews had fasted for 3 days, Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace in front of the king's hall, facing the entrance. When the king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand and she approached and touched the tip of the scepter. <br /><br />Before we approach the throne of the King of kings to make our petition known, do we cleanse and make ourselves ready? Think about it! Esther prepared herself! She fasted, then put on her royal garment and waited quietly before the king. She did her best to catch his eye. How many of us wait patiently, Quietly upon the King? and when He extends His scepter out towards us we approach Him and touch the tip of His scepter. Oh such reverence!!! <br /><br />Then he asked her what her request was and that he would give her up to half the kingdom. Then she invited him and Haman to a banquet. They came and enjoyed such a grand meal. Oh such blessed acceptance by the king. I can imagine the joy and relief that flooded her soul. If we were to approach the King of kings this way can you imagine the blessings that would be bestowed upon us? After reading and studying the book of Esther, the way we approach Him and expect Him to answer our prayers is shameful! <br /><br />After the banquet he again asked her what her petition was and said he would give her up to half of the kingdom. She requested for him and Haman to return the next evening to a banquet. The next evening after the meal, the king again ask her for her petition and she then reveals Haman's evil plot to destroy her and her people. Haman was hung on the very gallows that he had built to destroy Mordecai. <br /><br />When is the last time we have just entered into the King's court and quietly awaited His approval and then when He acknowledged us we invited Him to come and have a banquet with us. To come and dine with us. When did we last serve Him with praise and worship so that as the King is feasting upon our praises and worship unto Him He looks at us and says, "My child, what is your petition? It will be given you. What is your request?"<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKqhSPiqlugsnp52B0z-UWtSd86xlvuASW4mA8WGN0VXQOM7xtaBTIBG-7oACZwB0liH6w6TigJ4mCyA4D4bembS4dKZNd85pYSa2UftncSTilSmHr3Z8rYiLkrUUk10aVrzjSagp1CM3V/s1600/261632_2132351670907_1309484298_2557969_6323384_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKqhSPiqlugsnp52B0z-UWtSd86xlvuASW4mA8WGN0VXQOM7xtaBTIBG-7oACZwB0liH6w6TigJ4mCyA4D4bembS4dKZNd85pYSa2UftncSTilSmHr3Z8rYiLkrUUk10aVrzjSagp1CM3V/s320/261632_2132351670907_1309484298_2557969_6323384_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619645237320993858" /></a><br /><br />Wherever God has placed you, He can use you to speak His truth-words of love, justice and faith to a lost world-even if it means being misunderstood or ridiculed. It may be difficult and you may be weary; but "never tire of doing what is right." 2 Thessalonians 3:13Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-21740571867278597212011-06-17T08:47:00.000-07:002011-06-18T13:25:43.892-07:00Restoration & Salvation - Part One<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKT0_3cgwHVe9NCglKrWLpooRTKh7E5YiXh-MnvW06or3h1WfL26Nkzds1K9UBDeERu3wOprCpnbJzumXuqYjMBkBji8RypeZGCpkMrVRXtX-nnPVZqkDeQ79qdU11cfOvb8tlV-rY43dy/s1600/Ruth.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKT0_3cgwHVe9NCglKrWLpooRTKh7E5YiXh-MnvW06or3h1WfL26Nkzds1K9UBDeERu3wOprCpnbJzumXuqYjMBkBji8RypeZGCpkMrVRXtX-nnPVZqkDeQ79qdU11cfOvb8tlV-rY43dy/s320/Ruth.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619658595134537266" /></a><br />Ruth & Queen Esther, My two favorite women of the Bible. One brought Restoration & the other brought Salvation. <br /><br />The book of Ruth is an ancient story that follows the journey of one Jewish family's struggle for survival. Escaping famine, Elimelech traveled to Moab with his wife, Naomi, and two sons. But ten years later, we find Naomi in mourning at the loss of both her husband and sons. She is left alone in a foreign land with two Moabite daughters-in-law and no hope of future happiness, or it seems. Naomi is a woman who forgot her dream, but God had not forgotten her. God restores her joy through her daughter-in-law, Ruth. <br /><br />When Ruth's husband died, Her mother-in-law, Naomi, had decided to return to Bethlehem. When she urged Ruth and her sister-in-law to stay in Moab, Orpah chose to stay among her people and pagan gods. Ruth, chose to follow her mother-in-law to the land of Judah. <br /><br />But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God." <br /><br />Ruth chose to be loyal to Naomi, even though it meant going through some tough times and not knowing how life would turn out. Boaz,a distant relative of Naomi, saw Ruth's loyalty and faithfulness to Naomi and her hard work to earn enough to take care of Naomi and herself. <br /><br />Through Boaz & Ruth, restoration is brought back to Naomi. They got married, had a baby boy and Naomi said, "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel who gives an old woman like me grandchildren and a loyal daughter-in-law. She is better than seven sons!" <br /><br />In Judah Ruth found new hope, a new husband, and a place in the genealogy of the Messiah. New life can come from the tragedy of death. (John 12:24) We've all lost someone dear, leaving an emptiness in our hearts. We go on, but we ache for their presence. <br /><br />What do we do in the face of death? Do we blame God, as Naomi did? Do we stay in the nowhere land, as Orpah did? Or do we let God weave our grief into a new story, as Ruth did? <br /><br />Our faith promises new life. God knows the deaths we've experienced. His plans for us are good, though they look different than we expected. We need to learn to rest in the knowledge that God uses every circumstance to strengthen our faith in Him. When we think that life as we know it is over, remember the One who said "I make all things new." (Rev. 21:5)Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-78068632304601714222011-05-28T07:52:00.000-07:002022-10-31T20:24:57.361-07:00Trash Diggers<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHciFF0azP16DhFEozhAxk3QSGFekCalVDQe3ZdummPzU2SSbpQ1w59Lif8fdnWYmnCMjhdJ3JgxjoxzQMwg4WbslfffMif_Q68Xz1fKz-DWlAX9raymE_pw-j7xHAI0hfcjqn_yQMJb_m/s1600/img_3519.jpg"></a>I was in the kitchen yesterday doing the dishes. My granddaughter, who just turned one, was with me for the day. Hailey thinks that she has to be wherever I am. She is not a happy camper if I walk out of the room and leave her behind. So she followed me into the kitchen so she would not be alone. As I was doing the dishes she edged over towards the trash can and reached out to grab for something that she wanted in the trash. I would tell her "NO! NO!" Hailey would stop reaching but immediately drop her lower lip and begin to cry. After a few moments she would reach towards the trash again for whatever it was that was enticing her. I would continue washing dishes and simply say "NO! NO!" never once turning around to look at her or moving her. I just simply gave her a firm command and continued doing the dishes. Again, out of the corner of my eye, I could see she her lower lip begin to quiver and drop. Then the crying began all over again. This went on about 5 times. I believe it was on the 6th attempt that she was trying to dig in the trash that I gave a very stern "NO! NO!" Hailey then turned and threw herself and buried her face into the back of my skirt and wailed hysterically. Oh the pitiful crying that went on. She clung to the back of my skirt and wailed.
I continued on with the dishes as she cried and pulled on my skirt. Her crying got louder and louder. She would raise her head and cry then throw her face back into my skirt, pull on my skirt, and wail louder. It was as if she was pleading with me to please let her have the object she wanted that so charmed her in the trash can. I thought to myself, Hailey Renee, you have all those wonderful toys you just got for your birthday and you want to dig in the trash can for something to play with? Girl what is wrong with you? Then it hit me! That's the way God's children are. He has blessed us with so many WONDERFUL things and yet, sometimes He sees His children reaching for the trash can of this wicked evil world to find something to entertain themselves with.
God has delivered us from the deep miry clay. Cleansed us from drugs, alcohol, prostitution, lying, cheating, a life spent in and out of jail. Some have lived on the streets, under bridges. God gave them homes, mended broken hearts, others blessed with cars who were walking before. I've seen families put back together. We are blessed with good wholesome fellowship amongst the family of God. Get together at the parks, fellowship meetings, conventions, Sr Camps, Youth Camps and the list goes on. It is a good life a living for the Lord! Yet, for some reason or another, IF we are not careful, laying on top of the trash can of this thing we call the WORLD, will be something the devil has placed just to try and entice you! If he can only get you to reach in and take a hold of the object that looks so inviting, alluring, then he has a chance of snagging you and pulling you to the bottom of the trash can.
God is standing and washing, not dishes but souls, and He is watching His children as He is doing so. He sees when we reach out towards the trash can of the world. He doesn't move us away from the tempting object. He simply says "NO! NO!" We might let our lower lip quiver and drop. We might pout and cry. But like Hailey some of us keep trying to reach for that enticing object because we want it so bad. Sometimes God will even use the Preacher through His word to speak to us about what we are doing. We still get upset and want that enticing object of the trash can from the world. We might even go as far as to throw ourselves on the altar, grab a hold of the horns of the altar, wail and plead with God because we want it so bad. All the time He is saying "NO! NO!" Because He knows it is of no value to us. It will destroy us and our walk with Him. It will drag us to the bottom of the trash can. I wonder if He looks at us and says "All the wonderful blessings you have and you want to dig in the trash for pleasure? Child, what is wrong with you?" I will tell this, my worst day living for the Lord is better than my best day ever was living in the world!
Like Hailey is towards me, I want to be towards God. Lord, I want to be wherever you are! I will follow you. I don't want to be left alone! When you see me reaching for anything that will destroy my walk with you, don't ever stop telling me "NO!NO!" I don't want to be lured into the trash digging business for the pleasures that this world has to offer. I don't want to be found suffocating at the bottom of the trash can of sin. But like Hailey was with me, I will lift my arms to you and crawl into your lap and lay my head on your shoulder and cling to you. I will let you wipe away my tears and know that you love me and know what is best for me! For above all else, I MUST BE SAVED!Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-81236117527954043632010-12-24T06:55:00.000-08:002010-12-24T12:28:37.468-08:00A Life Long Christmas FriendAS I lay here this morning thinking about the birth of Christ on this Christmas Eve, I began to remember how the story goes where there was no room for him in the Inn. How he had to be born in a lowly stable amongst the animals. My mind quickly wanders throughout the life of Christ. From the very beginning there were so many who rejected him. There were so many who had no room for him in their lives. Right away there were those who set out to destroy him even as he was just a child. So many times he faced rejection here on earth. Then the ones who did make room for him quickly abandoned him the day that he was crucified. Just days before they were crying out "Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest." Then soon after, the same people were crying "Crucify him! Crucify him!" Even his disciples were no where to be found. As I was laying in my bed this morning with all these thoughts running through my head, I wondered, "Lord how did it make you feel to receive so much rejection? I know your heart must have been breaking into. How did you manage to deal with it all?<br /><br />In the hustle and bustle of this Christmas season people are so busy they don't have time for Christ. It's all about shopping. Getting the best deal. On to the next sale. Making sure that they buy for all their employees, employers, friends, every family member and etc. Even if it means they max out every credit card they have. Why if Susie is buying for everyone then I have to buy for everyone as well, right? Bumper to bumper traffic, and driving around forever to get parking. So much pushing and shoving in the stores. Give me! Give me! Whats in it for me? The next thing you know we have lost focus of the "Reason for the Season" Hey folks, for your info -you DON"T have to keep up with the Jones or the Smiths! Step back, take a deep breath, and re-focus. I guarantee it will make your Christmas Season much more pleasurable. I promise! <br /><br />My youngest daughter and I were talking the other night and sharing our thoughts on how it seems Christ is left out of Christmas. You go to the stores and it's "Happy Holidays!" Even if I tell someone "Merry Christmas!" the majority of the time, their response to me is "Happy Holidays!" What's up with that?" I look at them, smile and say, "Nooo, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!" and walk away. I hear so many people say how they hate Christmas. How so? This is my favorite time of year. Christmas is all about Christ. The true Reason for the Season. I love to listen to the beautiful Gospel Christmas songs. I like to decorate the house and get into a festive mood. I enjoy telling my grandchildren the story of his birth and the purpose of why he came to this earth. Today we will gather around and have dinner with the family. Then evening time, the children will open their presents. Tomorrow morning the children will rise and shine, race to the living room to see if Santa left anything for them. Yes! There are the snow prints on the carpet and there's the gifts! Oh Santa's been here! They will excitedly open those gifts as well. Caleb will smile secretively because he knows who the real Santa clause is. You see, in our house Christmas is all about Christ and the children. We started a new tradition in our family 3 years ago and now we only buy gifts for the children. It is so much fun to see their faces light up as they open up their gifts. As adults, that's all the gifts we need. That and the love of Christ and the love of one another.<br /><br />After the kids have opened their gifts from the so-called Santa on Christmas Morn we will all gather at Mark's for breakfast. Later in the day everyone will come to my place for dinner. Then another Christmas will have come and gone. I know in my last post I spoke on how life has been kind of rough these past two years. But as I lay in my bed this morning thinking of the life of Christ, well....there is nothing I've gone through that he hasn't already gone through. There isn't a path that I have walked that he hasn't already walked. Rejection? No one knows how that feels better than Christ. Abuse? Ask him about that! He was sorely abused the day he was crucified. Don't believe me read about how they beat him, spit on him, plucked his beard, pierced his side. I dare you to read it! And he did it all for our salvation. Yet people STILL continually reject him today. There are those who have called him Lord, even yet today, turn and walk away. Yes the road may have been rough, the trials at times hard to bear, the pathway dark, and my feet felt as though they were on shaky ground, and at times I seemed lost and confused. I may have been angry at times but never did I hate my God. Never did my love for him subside. Deep within me there was something that held me fast through it all. <br /><br />On this Christmas Eve I want to remember what Christmas is all about. Not just today and tomorrow. But everyday, all year long. I don't ever want it to be said of me that I don't have room for him in my heart. Never do I want to reject the Lord. Hard times will come and go. But this one thing I know, he will ALWAYS stay close by my side through it all. In the lonely hours of the night, when I'm feeling alone and rejected, he is there. He hears my cry. He answers my prayers. He will NEVER leave me nor forsake me. For he is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. <br /><br />I started my walk with the Lord Aug 19, 1979. We've crossed many rivers, climbed a lot of mountains, and went through many valleys together. We've traveled many narrow paths. At times, the going has been extremely rough. Other times it's been smooth sailing. Good or bad, he's been there for me through it all. This one thing I know, he is my Friend, my TRUE Friend! He is ALWAYS there when I need him. On that I can depend. I smile as I think about the child born on that day. Rejoice! Rejoice! The Savior has been born. My Life Long Friend.<br /><br /><em><strong>MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE! </strong></em>Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-83603625729281334152010-12-11T05:34:00.000-08:002022-10-31T20:26:15.757-07:00How's Your Health?Looking back over 2010, I can see a road that was very narrow, and at times, hard to travel. But here I am at the end of this year, and I survived. God is GOOD! I am so glad to know that I serve a Faithful, Merciful, & Loving God. I faced many trials throughout this past year. Some were physical, some were spiritual, & some were just LIFE itself. While in the midst of each trial, it's hard to see one's way but you just have to keep putting one foot in front of the other and stepping out by faith. Sometimes when the going got so rough I just had to stand still & wait to see the Salvation of the Lord. Other times, I know He picked me up and carried me through the storm, for I just couldn't take another step on my own.
I've been awake since 2:40 a.m. My mind has been racing out of control. Have you ever been angry with God? I have! Yeah - ME!!! Things happen & you don't understand why? You question Him. You ask Him why He allows things to happen? Why He allows people INTO your life if they are not going to be allowed to stay? Why He takes people from you? Why your world is falling apart? etc. & etc. I went through this these past 2 years. My marriage fell apart, I watched as my son & Amalia were devastated & broken hearted at the loss of two Pregnancies. It ripped my heart out. All I could do was ask God WHY? You see your children hurting & you can do nothing to help them. I know I can pray for them, I did, yet my life was such a turmoil within itself. I did the best I could. I watched my daughter go through her struggles but I can't fight her battles for her. Then the biggest battle of all hits me. This one is personal. A battle I must face & fight on my own. The outcome is up to me. It seems that ever since I climbed the tree and began to wrap myself within the cocoon I have almost had the life squeezed out of me. I do remember asking God to wrapped me tight - so tight in fact that nothing can separate me from Him. I do believe now that He is squeezing everything thing out of me that is NOT like HIM! Until that happens I will not be able to come forth from this cocoon.
I have had some health issues, so my Neurologist sent me for several test, AGAIN! The past 8 weeks I have been taking 50,000 units of vitamin D. My 1st blood test revealed that I only had .8 vitamin D in my system. That is barely on the chart. It is now up to 24 which is still low. My vitamin B's are all low so my neurologist is pumping me full of that as well. The 1st test showed b-12 was 121. It is now 383. She wants it to reach 800. As most of you know, I suffer chronic migraines. After much testing I have been put on a strict diet because most of the food I have been eating triggers MIGRAINES. Now the blood work has revealed this vitamin deficiency which also is a major cause for migraines. Doc feels that once they get my vitamins up to par, and get my diet where it needs to be then my migraines will be cut in half. She said I will always have migraines but we just might be able to control the number of migraines I have to deal with.
As I was laying here this morning & thinking about all of this, I thought that this physical well being is just like our spiritual well being. When the body doesn't eat properly or get the right vitamins, it doesn't function correctly. It begins to break down. Your mind doesn't work right. When your vitamin b-12 is 400 & below you start having memory loss. You become forgetful. You head out from point A to do something at point B & by the time you get to point B you've already forgotten what it is you're there for. Proper diet, vitamins, exercise, & sunshine is vital for a healthy body & mind. I remember Rev. John McDonald from Eureka CA saying several times, "You need to get 15 minutes of sun everyday. It gives you vitamin D & drives away Depression! So if you're depressed get out & get some sun." When we are not healthy we can not fight off sickness. Our immune system is weak and resistance is low. We need to take care of our bodies.
The same goes for our spiritual body. When it doesn't eat properly (the WORD of GOD) it becomes malnourished. If we don't partake of His word on a DAILY BASIS, we start to lose important vitamins in our spiritual diet. We then, become weak and can not fight off the things that attack & try to attach themselves to us. We don't think properly. When trouble & trials come our way, we can not think clearly or reason rationally. We become disillusioned & disoriented. We become critical & questioning His will. We start doubting & our faith becomes low. Next thing we know, we find ourselves on a path that we don't belong. All because we have neglected to properly feed and nourish our spiritual bodies.
We need to daily feast on the Word of God and make sure we are getting the proper vitamins that our spirit needs. Vitamin B's that are so vital to our Spiritual walk. Vitamin B-1 = Praise & Worship to our God. Vitamin B-2 = Faithfulness to the House of God even when we don't feel like it, for that is where we will draw our strength. Vitamin B-6 = The fruit of the Spirit (these are a MUST HAVE) = love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, & temperance, Vitamin B-12 = PRAYER! & Vitamin D = Get plenty of SON DAILY = JESUS. Like Bro. McDonald said - "If you're depressed get some Son. Try Jesus He Never Fails! Are you lacking any of these Vitamins! We need to go to prayer on a regular basis and have a spiritual blood panel done to make sure we are where we need to be. If we find we are low in any area, then we can get a vitamin boost of the Holy Ghost to get us back to where we need to be. I have been told by my Neurologist & others that the Vitamin B's are natural diuretics, one must make sure they take plenty of liquids daily. My advice to you is make sure you drink from the Fountain of Living Waters Daily to go along with ALL of your Vitamin B's. We need to take care of our Spiritual bodies.
Through all of our heartaches & sorrows, troubles & trials, our family is estactic & so very thankful that God has blessed us with Hailey Renee! We are so Happy for you Mark & Amalia! God is Good! You know, when I step back and look at it all now, yeah it's been rough, and it hurt, and sometimes it still hurts. But you know, I can see things more clearly now. I understand! I Truly Understand! Your ways are far above my ways. You know what's best LORD & that's all that Hailey Renee - My PrincessJolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-49838697144133912932010-01-03T15:17:00.000-08:002010-01-03T21:00:50.858-08:00God's House Is HolyOur Sunday School lesson today came out of Mark 11:15-17 and John 2: 12-17. It was about when the Passover was taking place. People were coming from near and far. Those who were traveling from afar had to purchase their sacrifices and gifts to God once they reached the City. Those who were selling these sacrifices and gifts decided to take advantage of that fact and they set up tables and stalls right inside the Temple of God. They also charged the people a lot more than they should have to pay for these sacrifices and gifts.<br /><br />When Jesus entered into Jerusalem and learned what had been going on, He went to the temple and straight way, he made a scourge of small cords and he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; And said unto them that sold the doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise. (John 2:12-17) <br /><br />In Mark He said "Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves. (Mark 11:15-17)<br /><br />The Bible point for today was - God's House Is Holy. I was trying to teach the children that we are to respect God's House. We don't run through the sanctuary unless we are doing it in worship unto Him. We don't eat candy or other food or chew gum in the sanctuary. We do not bring drinks in the sanctuary as well. God's house is Holy and should be treated with utmost respect. Paper and Kleenex should not be thrown on the pews or floor. If we see these things that have been left behind by others then out of respect to God we should stop and pick it up and take it to the trash. Don't say "Oh well it's not mine!" and walk off and leave it for someone else to deal with. Do it as unto the Lord. <br /><br />Zach, Johnathon, and Ashley asked several questions as to why did Jesus become so angry and isn't it wrong to get angry like that? I explained to them that the Bible says to be angry but sin not. Then They Asked "Didn't Jesus sin when He got so angry and drove them out like that? No! Jesus was angry with the way these individuals had disrespected the House of God and the reason He drove them out of the Temple was because they had defiled the House of God. I reminded them of our Bible Point - God's House Is Holy! He could not allow sin and disrespect to come into the temple and defile it. I explained to the students that when sin and things like that come into the House of God to bring destruction to His Temple they MUST be driven out at all cost even if force has to be used. He could not allow these things to take place in the House of God - the place of prayer - the Holy Place. <br /><br />Caleb then asked a very important question "Why did Jesus destroy His own House?" Good question!!! The answer to that was He did not destroy His House but He destroyed what the money changers had brought into His House. He actually cleaned out His House. Then I explained to the students again exactly what Jesus did and why. I also explained to them that today God no longer requires the types of sacrifices once used in the Old Testament and we went over the different types of those sacrifices. But today, the type of sacrifice He wants is us - a living sacrifice. "I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service" Romans 12:1 <br /><br />As I sit here this afternoon and ponder the questions of these students, I realized that what Jesus did in the Temple is exactly what we must do within ourselves. When things come into our lives that ought not to be there, we MUST drive them out. For are we not the Temple of God? "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" 1 Corinthians 3:16 We must drive these things out with the same force that Jesus did on that day of the Passover. Unless we use the same force that He did, these things will keep returning back into our lives and we will have to keep battling them over and over again. If we don't get rid of them and destroy them they will destroy us.<br /><br />The devil is out to kill, steal and destroy our walk with God. Beware! Anything that is not of God we need to remove it from our lives. We are the Temple of God and we MUST remain HOLY for He is HOLY. We must remember that we are the Temple of God and God's House is Holy.Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-33921763614355681092009-11-27T07:32:00.000-08:002009-11-27T09:25:00.340-08:00Mashed PotatoesWhile preparing the final dishes for Thanksgiving dinner yesterday, my daughter, Kerrie, asked me to check the potatoes. So I did. She asked me if they were ready to be drained and mashed. Not even! I told her that I stirred them but they had not changed. She then ask how high she had set the heat. Oh it was on high but the potatoes were still hard. A little longer in this heat should do it. This will soften these potatoes and we will be able to make these things into what we want them to be. Mashed Tators! Yes!<br /><br />I thought about that while I was going about making the rest of the dishes. Sometimes we are like those potatoes. God speaks to us through the preaching of His Word or through the reading of His Word. Sometimes He will speak to us through someones testimony. There are times that He will speak to us through a friend. Other times He will impress things upon our hearts. We KNOW when God has spoken to us. We are stirred in our hearts but we are not changed. We are tossed about like those potatoes in a pot of boiling water. We are moved for a moment of time with what we hear but not enough to change our life and become pliable in His hands. Moved but not enough to become what it is He wants us to become. <br /><br />The potato has to go through extreme heat in the oven or microwave in order to reach perfection of "Baked Potato". Once again reaching that place of soft and pliable service. To become a french fry the potato must go through the process of extreme boiling in grease. This will soften said potato into a tasty dish which most people can not turn away. However you want to eat your potato, it must first go through the fire and become soft and pliable so that it can be made into what ever dish it is you want it to be. So it is with us. Before we can become whatever it is God wants us to become, we must go through the fire. We have to have our hearts softened. We have to have things removed from us that ought not to be there. You see, the fire also purifies and removes things. It cleanses as it softens. The longer we stay in the fire the more pliable we become in His hands. Yet He will NEVER force you to become pliable in His hands. He will try you and test you and if you choose not to become pliable in His hands He will then release you and let you go. He can only work with a soft, willing heart.<br /><br />Hard baked potatoes are no good! Hard undone french fries are no good! Mashed Potatoes with hard lumps in them, to me, are no good! A hard heart to God, is a heart that He can not work with. It is not pliable in His hands. <br /><br /><br />I want to be pliable in the hands of God. I want my heart to be right before Him. Psalms 139:23-24; "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-26888172704854211132009-11-16T11:37:00.000-08:002009-11-16T13:16:42.331-08:00The Heart - Who Can Know It?<em><strong>Jeremiah 19:9</strong></em><br /><br />"The heart is more deceitful than all else And is desperately sick; Who can understand it? <strong><strong><em><strong>New American Standard Bible</strong></em></strong></strong><br /><br />The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? <em><strong>KJV</strong></em><br /><br />The heart is a twisted thing, not to be searched out by man: who is able to have knowledge of it? <em><strong>Bible in Basic English</strong></em><br /><br /><em><strong>Wesley's Notes</strong></em><br />The heart - There is nothing so false and deceitful as the heart of man; deceitful in its apprehensions of things, in the hopes and promises which it nourishes, in the assurances that it gives us; unsearchable by others, deceitful with reference to ourselves, and abominably wicked, so that neither can a man know his own heart, nor can any other know that of his neighbor’s.<br /><br />Trust in one's own heart is as foolish as in our fellow man <em><strong>(Pr 28:26).</strong></em><br /><br /><em><strong>Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary</strong></em><br />17:5-11 He who puts confidence in man, shall be like the heath in a desert, a naked tree, a sorry shrub, the product of barren ground, useless and worthless. Those who trust to their own righteousness and strength, and think they can do without Christ, make flesh their arm, and their souls cannot prosper in graces or comforts. Those who make God their Hope, shall flourish like a tree always green, whose leaf does not wither. They shall be fixed in peace and satisfaction of mind; they shall not be anxious in a year of drought. Those who make God their Hope, have enough in him to make up the want of all creature-comforts. They shall not cease from yielding fruit in holiness and good works. <br /><br />The heart, the conscience of man, in his corrupt and fallen state, is deceitful above all things. It calls evil good, and good evil; and cries peace to those to whom it does not belong. Herein the heart is desperately wicked; it is deadly, it is desperate. The case is bad indeed, if the conscience, which should set right the errors of other faculties, is a leader in the delusion. We cannot know our own hearts, nor what they will do in an hour of temptation. Who can understand his errors? Much less can we know the hearts of others, or depend upon them. He that believes God's testimony in this matter, and learns to watch his own heart, will find this is a correct, though a sad picture, and learns many lessons to direct his conduct. But much in our own hearts and in the hearts of others, will remain unknown. Yet whatever wickedness there is in the heart, God sees it. Men may be imposed upon, but God cannot be deceived.<br /><br />Because the wicked always have some excuse to defend their doings they show that their own lewd imaginations deceive them and bring them to these hardships: but God will examine their deeds by the malice of their hearts.<br /><br /><em><strong>Jeremiah 17: 10 </strong></em> <br />I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.<br /><br /><em><strong>I Corinthians 10:12</strong></em> <br />So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! <em><strong>New International Version</strong></em><br /><br /><em><strong>Proverbs 23:7</strong></em><br />For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he:<br /><br />"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise." <em><strong> Psalm 51:17</strong></em><br /><br />"The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit." <em><strong>Psalm 34:18</strong></em><br /><br />Dear God, in these last days help my heart to be right before you.Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-20820855570137951152009-11-07T06:17:00.000-08:002009-11-07T12:34:34.651-08:00The Secret Of Creating Riches<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10TyOnhff5aRi8w5k_d6cE8FARUJfK0AHvGvDoLP6MCqwAWjeiRpwsERcP56-rtJPHgh1YOOgMrMc3881RXauAEM4zF2pmrrfxAk7OAfywYkDZNSsFkhTvlGOTbH9PKbT8OyJn4EbbyT8/s1600-h/Timothy+%26+Marc.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 284px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10TyOnhff5aRi8w5k_d6cE8FARUJfK0AHvGvDoLP6MCqwAWjeiRpwsERcP56-rtJPHgh1YOOgMrMc3881RXauAEM4zF2pmrrfxAk7OAfywYkDZNSsFkhTvlGOTbH9PKbT8OyJn4EbbyT8/s320/Timothy+%26+Marc.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401396722785277698" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqh5TMAZgrb_un4MYsgxdrhOz07YUG7QL93treUXI1b7br3JTi6k2D3DTOj3zjWgX8dW5ssW-FCYL-5b15A3M6i1AdobAqSRsT2Qc7mAQScLL0tDDEyFS8weqXjBnbCca9O1q9FRDGS92/s1600-h/DSCI0003+(2).JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 168px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqh5TMAZgrb_un4MYsgxdrhOz07YUG7QL93treUXI1b7br3JTi6k2D3DTOj3zjWgX8dW5ssW-FCYL-5b15A3M6i1AdobAqSRsT2Qc7mAQScLL0tDDEyFS8weqXjBnbCca9O1q9FRDGS92/s320/DSCI0003+(2).JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401396352362803490" /></a><br />Top picture - Timothy & Marc. Bottom Picture - Jonathon & Zack. Participants in one of our S.S. skits<br /><br />"Never forget: the secret of creating riches for <br />oneself is to create them for others."<br />— Sir John Templeton:<br /><br />"You know the story of Bill Gates. From a score of 1590 out of 1600 on the SAT to dropping out of Harvard. Then founding Microsoft and becoming the world’s richest man. But there’s something that’s usually forgotten about his story. He didn't climb to the summit of success alone — he carried millions of people with him. People from all walks of life who were able to prosper because of him. Find your own path — but make sure it's wide enough to handle all the lives it will change. Your Future You awaits."<br /><br />As I read the quote above and the comment following it, the first thing that came to my mind was the future of my Sunday School kids. Teaching S.S. has always been my heartbeat. For a few years I was out of service in this department due to numerous reasons, my health being one of them. Now I am back and it feels so good.<br /><br />After about three weeks of teaching, three children started coming up to me before and after class giving me a quick hug and saying "I love you Sis. Jolene." Oh the joy that brought to my soul. I must be doing something right. To date there are several children who now do this. :) <br /><br />I was at the school the other day waiting to pick Caleb up when I hear some children yelling across the school grounds "Hi Sis. Jolene" I turn and look and there are a couple of my S.S. children just waving away at me and smiling. My heart leaped and I yelled back a hello to "my girls" and waved. Yesterday while waiting for Caleb I was attacked from behind. I felt these little arms circle me with a hug and hear this sweet little voice say "Hi Sis. Jolene" I turned to look into the eyes of one of my precious S.S. Children. This pleased me for this little guy is very shy and never says anything. <br /><br />Two Sundays ago I had one young child approach me and say "Can I be your helper Sis. Jolene?" Oh for sure! You see this child is one who never sits still. Always out of his seat and never listens. He has noticed how those who help, listen, and participate in the lesson get little rewards. I now have his attention. Oh Absolutely! You most definitely can be my helper as long as you listen and participate. :) Last Sunday this child was an absolute angel! "Can I help you next week too Sis. Jolene?" You sure can! You can be my helper every Sunday if you want. I guarantee I will find something that he can do. When I first took the class I had about 5, I think it was, of these young boys that were like this. Now everyone one them are doing their best to be my helpers. They want to get a little something out of that goodies bag at the end of the class. Bribery you might say. I don't care what you call it, I have their attention during the lesson and that is all that matters to me because now they can answer the questions at the end of the lesson where before they couldn't.<br /><br />If I have a child that starts to get a little out of line I don't need to yell at them or call their name out loud and draw attention to them I nonchalantly walk over to them as I am still talking and gently lay my hand on their shoulder and give a gentle squeeze and say their name and say what do you think about that? How would you feel if that happened to you? and some how I draw them back into the lesson. I make them feel a part. That is all they need is to feel a part, to feel important. <br /><br />You see, I'm on a journey. I'm climbing the stairway to Heaven. That's where my path lay. My riches are not here but laid up in Heaven. So I must make sure that my path is wide enough that I can lead these children down that path with me. I have to make sure that my path is wide enough to handle all the lives it will change. Children of all walks of life who will be able to prosper spiritually because I was not afraid to share this life changing Gospel with them. Peter said it best in Acts 3:6 "Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee..." What better gift could I give these children than the eternal words of God. Words that will give them hope of a better life. Words that will lead them and guide them to a glorious city that will be without sin, pain, sickness, heartache, and will forever be full of joy and happiness, love, and peace and where we will forever be with the one who saved us by His grace. <br /><br />I must "Never forget: the secret of creating riches for <br />oneself is to create them for others."Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-49302572125914915792009-11-02T07:42:00.000-08:002009-11-02T08:21:39.754-08:00Lovest Thou Me?My youngest daughter says to me: "Mom, A sacrifice is not real unless it involves giving up something/someone you truly love."<br /><br />I read her text and think, "You are wise beyond your years baby girl!" What a blessing to have you to encourage me at this time in my life. You are not only my daughter but my friend as well. I love you so much!"<br /><br />God says to my heart 3 days later: "Lovest thou me more than these?"<br /><br />Pastor preaches last night: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." Matthew 22:37<br /><br />Yea Lord I love you. I love you with ALL my heart, with All my soul, with All my mind and with ALL my strength. I not only love you Lord, but I am IN love with you! You are my everything. You are my all and all and I can not live one moment without you.Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-76735657843593893012009-10-27T19:47:00.000-07:002009-10-28T07:10:40.343-07:00Sin & Compromise VS Purity & Holiness"But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold." Psalm 73:2 NIV<br /><br />"When I said, "My foot is slipping," your love, O LORD, supported me." Psalm 94:18 NIV<br /><br />My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works. Psalms 73:26-28<br /><br />Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. Matthew 26:41<br /><br />The battle is raging strong between the spirit and the flesh. Can't eat! Can't sleep! Battle of the mind, heart, and spirit is raging stronger and stronger every day. Can't think straight. Find myself quickly being drawn out by the current. Losing my foothold. Can no longer focus on what is around me. Blinded by this circumstance that has come into my life. Feel smothered. Yet, not realizing what is happening to my very soul. Extremely emotional and confused. Then when on face book today Bro. Elder David Doran's Post seemed to jump off the screen at me:<br /><br />When sin & compromise enter the yard of your home...you are losing ground -<br /><br />When sin & compromise get on the front porch of your house you are in big trouble -<br /><br />When sin & compromise enter your house, purity and holiness leave -<br /><br />You can't have purity & holiness and sin & compromise at the same time, they cancel each other out. Make a choice 4 God! <br /><br />Have I sinned? <br /><br />"But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold." <br /><br />In these last days Satan is going to come at us any way he can to destroy us. He will even use the ones we love.<br /><br />I know I have quoted this scripture quite often but it is imperative that I do so again: "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." Psalm 51:10<br /><br />I am so thankful that "He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake."Psalm 23:3Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-72173728290642833782009-10-17T07:53:00.000-07:002009-10-17T08:13:20.372-07:00Say What?Caleb and I were sitting in my rocker/recliner yesterday reading together when out of the blue he stops and turns to me and says; "You know grandma, I know that what I did yesterday was wrong. I know I'm not suppose to mimic the teacher. But she was wrong too." I asked him how she was wrong and his reply was: "She didn't fill the send home note out right. She wrote down that I talked back and I didn't. She should have put down that I mimicked her. She didn't do her job right and she's a teacher. She doesn't know the difference between talking back and mimicking. If I'm gonna be in trouble then put down what I did that was wrong."<br /><br />Yep, he was dead serious. He admitted what he did was wrong and he will take the punishment for that, but don't accuse him of of doing something he didn't do. Nope he just won't accept it. LOL!!! This kid is just WAY to serious sometimes.<br /><br />I had to explain to him that it was just a simple mistake and that I talked to his Principal <em><strong>(who wasn't even aware that there was a problem)</strong></em> and that everything is ok. So, now we can forget about it and move on.<br /><br />P.S. The principal did get a laugh out of that one. :) Only Caleb!Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-39038273436778331452009-10-15T23:04:00.000-07:002009-10-16T07:45:46.313-07:00What Will He Say Next?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUThtFyQNquYz4YjLoC_XLKi8yVcFb_LuluHW1rF4gCES8rT-UE0vfLZtcwa-pNSpBxYRXuZxju04hIisavc4LBWFpFAvzZ4gKKipYdw5HCf4vWrXnR3kwiqp8IIUp2UBlabMx0zbHBxJ1/s1600-h/new+folder+021+(2).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUThtFyQNquYz4YjLoC_XLKi8yVcFb_LuluHW1rF4gCES8rT-UE0vfLZtcwa-pNSpBxYRXuZxju04hIisavc4LBWFpFAvzZ4gKKipYdw5HCf4vWrXnR3kwiqp8IIUp2UBlabMx0zbHBxJ1/s200/new+folder+021+(2).jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5393077803451950354" /></a><br />Caleb came home with a note from his teacher today saying that he was talking back to the yard duty teacher at lunch recess. Caleb told me "I wasn't talking back grandma. I was mimicking her as she walked away. They don't know the difference between talking back and mimicking and they are suppose to be teachers." <br /><br />Dear Lord help me I almost lost it. It was everything in my power not to laugh out loud and keep a straight face. I thought I was going to bust a gut. Was it funny that he mimicked a teacher? Absolutely Not!!! You just have to know Caleb. He was so serious about them not knowing the difference between talking back and mimicking. It was hard to control myself as I counseled him on that one. - F Y I young man - Talking back or <strong>MIMICKING</strong> your teachers is <strong>NOT</strong> allowed. LOL!!!Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3133582857374602366.post-13255937016655541172009-10-03T01:52:00.000-07:002009-10-03T04:28:13.748-07:00What's On The Inside?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCXPkTKMeJjTgvyVXxZkFwqGjgPxy2ZjrB2PLfkdvt0EtA3zjrNmyz3NEpLyVYTdNdeT8UuGEoMBllym0BE_LjAtEeJ2ie_W7OBDlbG6z-4nCslp0ru3QSgX0ixH7EQb5QV-dh2GF0lfIW/s1600-h/h_orange_juice_01.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 163px; height: 110px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCXPkTKMeJjTgvyVXxZkFwqGjgPxy2ZjrB2PLfkdvt0EtA3zjrNmyz3NEpLyVYTdNdeT8UuGEoMBllym0BE_LjAtEeJ2ie_W7OBDlbG6z-4nCslp0ru3QSgX0ixH7EQb5QV-dh2GF0lfIW/s400/h_orange_juice_01.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388332427000929778" /></a><br />"When you squeeze an orange, orange juice comes <br />out - because that's what's inside. When you are <br />squeezed, what comes out is what is inside."<br />— Wayne Dyer<br /><br />Sooooo......Have you ever felt that you have truly forgiven someone of a hurt that they have caused you? Then one day, Bam! Out of the blue, something happens and that old wound is opened up and you begin to feel the pain all over again? Old emotions start rising up within you and before you know it, you are reliving the hurt and agony of the situation all over again? All of a sudden you discover that there is a root of bitterness still lurking within you. You are shocked to discover that it is there and you ask yourself, Where did that come from? This cannot be! For bitterness to live within, one cannot move forward. <br /><br />Once again you find yourself playing the game of Spiritual Wac-A-Mole! That ugly thing called bitterness has risen it's ugly head and you must get the Spiritual hammer and beat it back down. It must be destroyed before it destroys you. Bitterness and the very root of it MUST die lest it choke the very life out of you.<br /><br />We have sung the following song as a child:<br /><br />O be careful little eyes what you see<br />O be careful little ears what you hear<br />O be careful little hands what you do<br />O be careful little feet where you go<br />O be careful little mouth what you say<br /><br />I would like to add:<br /><br />O be careful little mind what you think<br /><br />O be careful little heart what you feel<br />O be careful little heart what you feel <br />There's a Father up above<br />And He's looking down in love<br />O be careful little heart what you feel<br /><br />It is said that each of us has an inner sense of what is right, or fair, or just. When that is violated a natural result is to react, to right the wrongs and correct the injustices or to become bitter. When one becomes offended or disappointed by others and allows the hurt to germinate in the heart, bitterness and resentment will take root. This is characterized by an unforgiving spirit and generally results in a negative critical attitude which is sinful and self-defeating. Such bitterness when allowed to fester, will destroy and kill. <br /><br />We must recognize and identify the bitterness when we see it in our lives. We must confess and repent. Then we need to renew our mind. Forgive and depend on the Spirit of God for strength and depend on his love towards us.<br /><br />"Behold, for peace I had great bitterness: but thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back." Isaiah 38:17<br /><br />Dear God, Cleanse me thoroughly. Remove every inch of bitterness. Leave not even one spec of a root that can cause bitterness to rise its ugly head again. I want nothing but the fruit of your spirit to manifest in my life.<br /><br />"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." Psalm 51:10<br /><br />When the pressure is on and I feel the squeeze, what comes out can not be bitterness but it must be the fruit of your spirit only.Jolene Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08765987934872253914noreply@blogger.com2