Thankful Thursday-5 Senses and the Word

I love Thankful Thursdays! Head over to Iris @ Grace Alone for her post. While worshipping the Lord this morning, I decided that I would write on my thankfulness for His Word. I wasn't sure what Iris would pick for the topic yet. She picked a great one,the 5 senses. Something I would have never thought of,but it is something we overlook lots of times.

I am thankful for my sight... I have worn glasses since I was in the 4th grade (contacts now),so without them my vision is not good at all. I am thankful that there is something I can wear to improve my vision,that I can see God's beautiful creation around me,and that I can read God's Word.

I am thankful for my hearing... I can hear beautiful music that ministers to my heart,hear my adorable sons voice,and my husband's endearing voice.

I am thankful for my ability to touch... I can feel God's beauty in my arms by hugging loved ones,I can feel God's Word by touching the Bible. I mean have you ever just run your fingers over God's Word?

I am thankful for my ability to taste... I can taste delicious foods,sweet tea,and chocolate.

I am thankful for my ability to smell... I can smell fresh cut grass,honeysuckles,and coffee just made in the mornings.

Those are all things we take fore granted. So many people can't do those things or don't have those things to see,hear,feel,taste,or smell.

I'm thankful for God's Word. I was thinking this morning where would I be without it? I would be in a pit and very lost. The Word is something else we take fore granted. We have 2 or 3 Bibles around the house and think nothing of it. Whereas in some countries, they tear pages out of one Bible and pass them out. I do not want to take His Word fore granted. It has gotten me where I am and has kept me from lots of situations.

God's Word is a lamp unto my feet and it lights my path when it has become dark. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105 There have been many times that I did not know what to do and no one's counsel helped me,but the Word guided me and led me to the place I should have been.

God's Word is my truth. I can read all the books in the world,but if I do not place the Bible as my compass then I will be truly lost in all ways. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. John 17:17 The Word is to sanctify us. It cleanses us of our sin nature daily as we read and thrive on it. It is the only truth and absolute truth.

This is the one that I love! God's Word is alive! It is powerful! It is breathing! For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 The words jump off the page at me sometimes. It cuts through all the junk in our life and can breath life into our dry places. It discerns the very thoughts in our head and the very things that are in our heart! How amazing is that?!

The Word is also so sweet! It can put a taste in your mouth and in your heart like no other. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward. Psalm 19:9-11 I've heard the illustration of a cow and how it will chew the grass,then swallow it,and regurgitate it and chew on it more. Isn't that what we should do with the Word? Chew on it spiritually and do it everyday,bringing it back to our minds?

We are told to meditate on the Word and not let it depart from our mouth. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Joshua 1:8 With the busy world we live in or so often create ourselves, it can be hard to meditate on the Word. Our minds our filled with other stuff,our head never stops spinning. We wonder why we are stressed? We have to stop,spend time with the Lord,and then go about our day. That doesn't mean we have one "alone" time with the Lord. We are to pray without ceasing daily,something I've learned to do with a baby. So I'm thankful for the Word. When all else fails the Word will not fail. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever. Isaiah 40:8

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Colossians 3:16

Don't forget to check out Iris @ Grace Alone. Have a wonderful Thursday!

Fall is here

As we woke up yesterday morning it was cold,colder than it usually is this time of the year. I sent my hubby off to work and played with Daniel. Fall was officially here a few weeks ago,but it's actually starting to look like it and feel like it. I love fall/autumn season! The colors are pretty,the air is crisp,and there's a wonderful holiday to celebrate! Last night we had our first cup of hot chocolate and this morning I had some coffee. We love hot chocolate and smores! Yes, last year I did not eat many smores due to being pregnant and trying to not put much weight on Daniel. Well, this year I'll indulge myself!

As I lay in bed last night, I thought about how blessed I am. God is so good! He is so faithful! I truly would have never dreamed that I would been married right now and have a baby. Those who know me very well, knew had badly I wanted to be a wife. Well, with that desire came many immature decisions. I'll have to write about that someday. God continually had His hand on me guiding me to where He wanted me.

I am very blessed to have a wonderful,loving,God-fearing husband. He takes such good care of me. I remember the day when I knew Mike was the one God had for me. It really blew me away,but yet it came softly. We went through so much being apart for 6 months of our relationship,but God used it to help us grow stronger in Him and one another. I think he is the funniest man alive and I think he is the most heroic at the same time. My love for him grew from friendship to intimate in 6 years.

I am also very blessed to have a adventurous,high spirited,funny little baby boy. Daniel has brought new meaning to life. I now can get a glimpse of God's love for us and for his son. I wasn't prepared at all for being pregnant,a baby, or to be a mother,even though God revealed it to me in 3 dreams 3 months before I got pregnant. I love Daniel Paul so much! He is so energetic,so full of life,and loves me so much! I see that little human being and can't imagine life without Daniel. He is just so precious!

Wow, there are so many more things that I am blessed with. I could write and go on and on. Today Daniel has been crawling around getting into things or as others would say "exploring". He keeps me on my toes,that's for sure. I wonder if all babies are this way? My nieces sure weren't. Mike says I'm just not used to boys. He's such a little boy! Tomorrow and Thursday my husband will have off. We have one major thing to do,get our heater fixed in our truck. Other than that, it should be laid back. His off days go so fast it seems. Saturday my oldest niece,Tabitha, will turn 7 years old. Wow, where has the time gone? I remember my SIL when she was pregnant with her and when she had her. We were all so happy and excited! She was the first grand baby for my parents and first time I was Aunt Header(as they used to pronounce it). Mike has off that day too,so hopefully we'll be able to go to the family party. This past week my other SIL(Robyn,Mike's oldest sis) turned 25. It's hard to believe we're done with college at SBC. She's working there as a secretary and I'm married with a baby. Who would have thought it? Not us for sure. Daniel also turned 9 months on Sunday! Where did that time go? I still can picture him nursing so sweetly and falling asleep. He was so small and so alert too. Now, he's crawling,standing up,smiling at us,laughing at us,and jabbering all the time. This is why I can't let housework be more important. If I don't watch it,he'll be done with the homeschooling program,ready to do what God has for him. Yes, we plan on homeschooling. We both attended public schools and came out fine,but it's A LOT different than 9-12 years ago. I just pray I'm a good teacher. I've never been one to teach.

Oh, he's started crawling away or trying to hide whatever he has when I tell him no or go to get it. Sneaky lil' boy! He will have to be taught that is no,since he has done very good with No, Daniel,here is this. Training Daniel isn't hard as much as it is inconvenient. By that I mean, if I'm washing dishes and he tries to pull the radio off the shelf, I have to stop what I'm doing and go over there. So I'll just stop what I'm doing each time and go get what he has. I want him to be pleasant to be around and he is. It's amazing! At church in the nursery, when someone says no, he immediately stops and looks at them or if we're at the family or friends he does the same thing. He doesn't destroy things(except paper or napkins) or fuss all the time. So I am blessed and thankful we are starting early with Daniel,as opposed to some parents. He also runs now when I go to chase him and play. It's so cute! He stops after a few minutes,looks at you,and goes to crawl away again. We have fun doing that during the day! I love staying home with him! I just can't wait until I can begin teaching him scripture and reading the Bible to him and him understand it. We're going to train and teach Daniel to love God and be a warrior for him,to be in love with Jesus and want to be like him,and to always be in prayer. Well, I am off now! I am enjoying getting to know you ladies more!

Here are some verses I really love.

Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession.
Psalm 2:8

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Matthew 6:33

At the Well- Arise and Shine: Being an Exceptional Mother in the Midst of the Ordinary

Today our host at the well is Lisa @ A Second Generation of Homeschooling. She has a wonderful topic! Arise and Shine: Being an Exceptional Mother in the Midst of the Ordinary is her topic. Wow, that's a thought provoking topic.

I've only been married for almost 2 years (will be December 4th) and only been a mother for 9 months and 1 day,so I don't have as much experince as most of you ladies do. I was raised in a home where Mother did the housework,cookin,and tending to the children. Although I never really started helping with housework or cooking until I was in college, that was a joy to me and still is. I love to keep my house neat and clean! The hard part is being a mother. I did not like babies because they didn't seem to like me. I wasn't patient enough for children either. All kids above age 2 just really were horrible to be around. They did not listen at all,were terrors,and just mean. I never thought I wanted kids to be honest. Thankfully, God let me see that kids are the way they are because of parents and when it's your child you can raise them in a Godly manner. It's hard to not get whiney and be selfish with an infant. Wow, some days I'm ashamed of myself. He's only a baby and he does need me. I mean cleaning the house to me is like therapy,so it's not a big deal, and my husband isn't very demanding. Wow, but Daniel is. He needs us more than I've seen other babies do their parents and he doesn't like to play alone much. So I've been really working on not thinking of it as an interruptions if I'm doing something and Daniel needs or wants me. I don't do well with lots of stress and I get overwhelmed to easy. I let myself get overwhelmed too easy. God wants me not to be selfish at all. I am to be a servant to my God,my family,my friends,and to others. What better way to help me acheive that, than give me something that has to have me. He can't go to the bathroom by himself,but needs changing. He can't feed himself,but needs me to feed it. He can't do most things without me doing it for him or helping him. I'm not complainig by no means, I asked God to help me be moldable about 3 or 4 years ago and well, He's doing that. Not only with Daniel,but with other circumstances in my life. I'm not sure how that went along with these questions,but it's what I felt I needed to write. So I'll answer the questions now.

1. What daily tasks seem mundane or monotonous to you? Oh that would have to be washing and drying clothes. eek! We don't have a washer or dryer in our apartment,but there is one on site. It just gets old to be honest! Ha! I know we have to keep our clothes clean,but sometimes I'm tempted to re-wear shirts over and over again.

2. How can we change our outlook when completing these tasks? Definately by seeing that all we do is for the glory of God and it's what He has given us to do. We'll answer for what we have done with our gifts and talents. That does concern our home,husband,and children too!

3. What impact do these tasks have on our husband and children? How does it make a difference in their lives? Well, if my house is messy and stinky to the point that's it just nasty,then my husband will certainly not be happy. He's not a neat freak by a long stretch,but he does like the house to be at least picked up for company and to smell good for him. For Daniel he needs to see me as his mother keeping the home and teaching him so he will know what his wife is supposed to be like. Not everything about my personality so to say,but just being a Titus 2 woman,wife,and mother.

4. Is it okay to focus on earthly recognition when completing these tasks for our loved ones, or is receiving an eternal reward sufficient? Which does Jesus think is more important? Shouldn’t that be our focus, as well? I don't think it's wrong to want your husband to tell you thank you for what you do,but to do it just for that reason is selfish and self gain. That's not what Jesus taught in scripture.

I really enjoyed this topic! Thanks Lisa! Don't forget to check our her post @ A Second Generation of Homeschooling.

Here are some scriptures that I start my morning off with.

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10

I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
Psalm 101:3

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
Galatians 5:16

Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
Proverbs 18:21

This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:24

As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.
Psalm 18:30

I really enjoyed this topic. Thank Lisa! Don't forget to check her out @ A Second Generation of Homeschooling. Be blessed!

Remember our persecuted brother and sisters

Nguyen Van Dai





I recieved an email from prisoneralert.com the other day,I'm just now getting around to posting it. Click on the link to read more about the site and "prisoner". I am burdened for the persecuted church and twice monthly I blog about them,maybe more. Below is about this man and where you can go to write him. It's so sad that Christians are done this way! We all should have the right to speak the name of Jesus without persecution. But in reality not all of us can. Jesus even tells us in scripture we will be hated for his name sake. I just wonder sometimes will that type of persecution come to America? Will it be through radical Islam? The hate-crime laws? or what? Anyone else ever wonder that? We all know our nation has not been going up hill,but down hill,which is very sad. Check out Voice of the Martyrs and prisoneralert. It will be well worth your time.


Dear Friends of the Persecuted Church ...

Nguyen Van Dai, a Vietnamese Protestant church leader and lawyer, was sentenced to five years in prison followed by four years of house arrest, in May 2008. We encourage you to write a letter of encouragement to Nguyen and let him know you are praying for him and other persecuted believers in Vietnam. Let your friends know about suffering Christians in Vietnam and encourage them to pray and write as well. Your letters make a difference, sometimes resulting in shorter prison sentences. Write to Nguyen Van Dai today and let him know you are praying for him.

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

Matthew 5:10-12

Favorite song

I bought the new Casting Crowns cd Thursday and it is so great!! I love this group! They're so real and anointed! One of my favorite songs off the cd called the Altar and the Door is called The Word Is Alive. Oh I love it! It really ministered to me this morning. I wanted to share it. Check out their new cd and their other previous cd's.

Looking out from His throne, the Father of light and of men
Chose to make Himself known and show us the way back to Him
Speaking wisdom and truth into the hearts of peasants and kings
He began to unveil the Word that would change the course of all things

With eyes wide open, all would see

The Word is aliveAnd it cuts like a sword through the darkness
With a message of life to the hopeless and afraid
Breathing life into all who believe
The Word is alive
And the world and its glories will fade
But His truth, it will not pass away
It remains yesterday and forever the same
The Word is alive

Simple strokes on a page
Eternity's secrets revealed, carried on from age to age
It speaks Truth to us even still
And as the rain falls from Heaven, feeds the earth before it returns
Lord, let Your Word fall on us and bring forth the fruit You deserve

With eyes wide open, let us see

Chorus)*PERSON ON MEGA PHONE*The Bible was inscribed over a period of 2000 years.
In times of War and Days of Peace.
By Kings, Physician, Tax Collectors, Farmers, Fisherman, Singers and Shepherds.
The Marvel is that a library so perfectly cohesive.
To be produced by a diverse crowd.
Over a period of time, which stagers the imagination.
Jesus is his greatest Subject.
Our good is designed and Glory of GOD is its Greatest end.(Chorus)

The Word is alive
And it cuts like a sword through the darkness
With a message of life to the hopeless and afraid
Breathing life into all who believe
The Word is aliveAnd the world and its glories will fade
But His truth, it will not pass away
It remains yesterday and forever the same
The Word is alive

The Word is alive
His Word is alive

Do you believe the Word is alive? Wow! I mean those words on the pages of the Bible are alive as you and I are. That is just so awesome! It still leaves me in awe sometimes. They aren't just words,but they are alive and they speak life into our dry souls! Amen!

What's a favorite passage of scripture or verse you have?

Be blessed!!

I started another blog,it's on my Profile page. It's a picture blog!

Thankful for Friends

I'm little late for Thankful Thursday,but I wanted to still post. I had my Mother down all day and just got back from visiting with my brother and his family. Iris is talking about special friendships this week. I am thankful for our special friendships. We were actually visiting some very special friends last night. I guess I'll talk about some of the special friends in my life,there aren't many,but it's the quanity that counts.

My Mother,Bhrenda, is a special friend to me. She's also been there for me through the thick and thin. She has always told me the truth,no matter if I liked it or not. She inspires me and encourages me still to this day.

My sister,Haley, is a special friend too. We've been through a lot together. We have fought,cried,laughed,and even ministered together. We both are married with baby boys now. She always has my back(ha!) so to say.

I went to college with a group of awesome girls (who were in the dorm) and they are special to me. Allison,Enna,Claire,Chrystal,Robyn(sis-in-law),Jade, and Sonya. They all inspired me and motivated me in different ways. We're all doing our own things now,but still the memories are there.

My husband and I were a part of a ministry before we even started dating called Friendship Youth Ministry. Those people who were a part of that are so awesome! Oh we had some amazing devotions and some fun volleyball games. Most of us are married with children now or have moved to other states. We do still keep close contact with the family whom house we met at. Those are very unique people. Ms. Rachel,Brian,and Amy (and her family) are such encouragement and inspiration. They are so in love with Jesus and so on fire for the Lord. We love spending time with them,which we do a lot.

My husband is also a special friend. He is my best friend and my love. He rebukes me,loves me,cherishes me,adores me,encourages me,inspires me, you name it! I love that man so much!! God really knew what He was doing by not letting me marry another guy I was engaged too because Mike is perfect for me.

I have many internet friends also. Wow, I've been keeping in touch with some of them for 5 or 6 years. Many of them I met at Teen Open Diary and followed to Bloop Diary. Adrian,Melody,Melissa,Erika,Jess,Christina,Cynthia,Nicole,Stefanie,Vanessa,Heather,and many more. They are amazing! We've been there for one another even if we all live in different states. I love them dearly!

So I'm thankful God let me have those friends and I pray I can be to others,what they are to me. Go over to Grace Alone by Iris for more on thankfulness.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Colossians 3:16

What Giants Do You Face?

My morning devotion was about exhaustion,fighting,and struggles. I felt the need to share it with ya'll.

Here is the passage Beth used.

15 Moreover the Philistines had yet war again with Israel; and David went down, and his servants with him, and fought against the Philistines: and David waxed faint.
16 And Ishbibenob, which was of the sons of the giant, the weight of whose spear weighed three hundred shekels of brass in weight, he being girded with a new sword, thought to have slain David.
17 But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succoured him, and smote the Philistine, and killed him. Then the men of David sware unto him, saying, Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, that thou quench not the light of Israel.
II Samuel 21:15-17

She talked about being tired in battle and tired of fighting the same ol' giants. The Hebrew word for exhausted is "uwph" and it means "to cover,to fly,to faint,to flee away". It reminded me of giants I have faced and continue to face. I face the giant of fear. As a child, my father watched scary movies and I watched them too. He was just fascinated with sci-fi movies and flicks. I don't remember watching them,so much at a young age,but boy I do while I was a teen. Those images come back every now and then. At one time, I was so scared I would pray myself to sleep. Fear overtook me and consumed me. I wasn't afraid during the day,but at night is when it set in. The demonic forces of evil that stems from the horror movies are so dangerous and it affected me so much. I literally was scared to walk out to the car at night and when I would close my eyes I would see horrible images. Now, it wasn't all my father's fault. I begin craving the movies. I would watch them and be thinking, what am I doing, I know I'm going to be terrified afterwards! Finally, I realized I did not need to put those movies into my mind. Why put in what terrifies me? I thought that I would battle with this forever.

Once I moved out and declared nothing scary would come across my t.v.,radio,or enter my home I saw what a difference it made in me. I'm not scared to walk around my own home at night or sleep without my husband at home. God has helped me overcome that fear,but sometimes it still arises. I quote scripture and bind the demonic forces in the name of Jesus. They have to flee at the name of Jesus! Sometimes we help bring on giants and other times it's not our fault. If you are facing giants from your past,just remeber that you have the Light of the world in you! Jesus is greater than any struggle or strong hold! In I John 4:4 it says, Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. With the Word you can overcome whatever giant is coming against you.

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: I Peter 5:8 Don't give up! Keep guarding your heart and equipping yourself with the Word! We may never know why some struggles keep reappearing and other times they reappear because we did not get what God was trying to do in us. If you are weary in fighting,come to the Lord. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30 You can slay the giant just as David did. Just go to God! Which giants do you need to slay today?

At the Well- Our Homes

I'm not sure how to write then place the pictures where I want them,so here are a few pics first. I couldn't get my camera to do all the ones I took though.

It's time to gather at the well with these wonderful women of God! I'm so thankful that I came to blogger and found you wonderful ladies! Natalie @ I AM(not) is our host today, so head over to her blog for her thoughts on our homes being an extension of who we are.

Her question to us was : How does your home reflect who you are?

Good question. I have always lived in a Mobile Home (trailer) and to me that was a home. My parents always told us home is not about what you live in,but what lives there with you. Love makes a house a home. I took that with me through my early years till now. Mama had it decorated with all her old antique things and of course pictures of the children. Holidays were the best time because you smelt the yummy fixings! Candles were always lit and there was always laughter in the home. All of our friends and extended family love coming over because we were always laughing and loving on each other. I cherished my trailer and really hated to leave it.

Now, that I am married I want my home to be like my parents. I want it to be full of laughter(which it is, my husband is the funniest man in the world) and full of love! We live in a 2 bedroom apartment in the city. How does my home reflect me? Well, I like organization,so things are put in specific places so we know where to find them. (ha, except my husbands keys he is determined to always misplace them!) God is a God of order. He expects our homes to be in order also. It may not always be neat (ha how can it with crawling infant?),but things should be in order and have a set place they are stored and put away. I also love scents! So our home always has candles lit. I do the seasonal thing with candles! I have a candle in the kitchen,bathroom,and our bedroom! My husband loves to smell the aroma of my home. I also love to cook and my husband loves to eat! ha! So our home is filled with good smelling foods,whether it is desserts or the main course. I also love pictures!! So you guessed it! Pictures are up,as many I can put up without it looking cluttered. We both loves books,so we have 2 full book shelves! We have a t.v. in 2 rooms,but we watch what we let come on the screen. We want a peaceful,loving spirit in our home. I always have my Christian radio station playing or a Christian cd in. I want God to be welcomed here 24/7!

We love the Lord and want our home to honor Him. Not only honor Him,but be full of Him. So I picked out verses from the Word,typed them up,printed them out,and put them up in different spots in the home. I want others to see Christ in my home. I want them to feel warm and welcomed here,even if they are first timers! I love to have people over and just have fun! Our home is also full of baby noises,which I absolutely adore! We hear a thud on the floor and know lil' man is crawling to find us wherever we are. I want Daniel to have the atomsphere I did growing up. A loving mother and father who welcome his friends over and can be a blast to be around. Like I've said and the other ladies, we are to do everything to the glory of God! My home is not mine in reality. It's God. He gave it to us. He really did! After living here for almost a year, our landlord offered us free rent! So it's God home and we want to glorify Him in it.

I'm not that good at decorating. I like to put up pictures,candles out,and some trinkets here and there. I wish I had the creativity that our host Natalie does,wow her home is so pretty! So I may live in an "apartment" to many,but to me it's my home.

How does your home reflect who you are? Don't orget to check out Natalie @ I AM(not). God Bless!!

The Voting Issue

I have been meaning to blog about the election. If you do not agree with what I say, that is fine, and you can leave notes saying so, as long as they are in a manner that Jesus could read them. Thank you! Many of you do not know me personally,as some others do that I have been friends with for years,but I'm very ultra-conservative.

Like every other year, it is an important election,but it could very well be the most important. I know it is to me and my family. I chose to vote Republican last year and when the Republicans candidates came out this time I had 3 that I really liked. Sam Brownback,Mike Huckabee,and Duncan Hunter. I liked Ron Paul too,they just never gave him much time to explain himself. Out of all of them, those seemed to believe closer to what I believe. It is strange though you couldn't really know what they believed on everything. Like all politicians, they are scared to share their true beliefs, especially if they are Christian beliefs. I watched both party debates and it was always the same answers from each one. Fast forward to when McCain and Obama won the 2 party tickets. I thought well I really don't like everything about McCain and I'm not voting for Obama period. So I was going to vote for McCain,as was my husband In June, we were told about Chuck Baldwin. He is a pastor in Florida and was running on the Constitution Party ticket. I went home and checked out his website and found out he stood exactly where I did on issues. I wasn't so passionate about the economy or global warming as I was passionate about marriage,abortion,and gun control. Chuck Baldwin pastors a church in Pensacola,FL and a guy we grew up with goes to his church His mother told us about his campaign and encouraged us to check him out. My husband liked him,but he thought that Baldwin would never have a chance. From that Saturday in June I heard about Baldwin I purposed in my heart to vote for him. God had been dealing with me about voting for someone who does not hold the same convictions and beliefs I do. Of course, if my husband said I was voting for McCain I would do so. He is my spiritual head and I am to submit to his authority. Though I would not have agreed with his decision or choice, I chose to marry Mike,trusting he could hear from God on what to do. So with that said, Mike told me we would vote for McCain. I started praying that God would open Mike's eyes to what God wanted us to do and not worry about our self-preservation. I did let Mike know that I believe God is concerned with how we vote. McCain is for abortion in instances and he will not vote to ban homosexual marriage. Both of these issues are talked about in scripture and are not condoned by God in any manner. He said he knew that,but he felt his vote would be wasted by voting for Baldwin. I kept on praying to God because I just could not imagine having to vote for McCain,knowing he does not stand on the 2 key issues with me.

A couple of months later Mike said I think you're right and stated we may vote for Baldwin. He was just torn on what to do really. He was looking at Obama vs. McCain on Supreme Court Justices. Knowing Obama would elect very liberal judges and McCain would not elect as liberal judges. It was just picking the lesser of two evils. Mike had not made written in stone we would vote for McCain,but he sure was leaning more towards that idea. I kept praying, God let Mike see what we need to do as children of Yours and this isn't about preserving our flesh. If we perish,we perish! We have to vote how it pleases You. So they announced their V.P. and boy did the people go wild when Sarah Palin was picked by McCain. I thought well McCain may win,but I still do not want to vote for him. It was said she was pro-life and a conservative Christian (not saying she does not know Jesus by any means). I liked what I saw of her,but do not agree with women being in authority over men, in church or otherwise. My husband doesn't either, he said he'd rather McCain/Palin get it than Obama/Biden. I thought,wow that's extreme for my husband. I kept praying the prayer above to God. About 2 or 3 weeks ago my husband told me that he just could not bring himself to vote for McCain or Palin. We'd been doing research and reading up on them both. I also watched the debate between Biden and Palin. I did not like her answer concerning marriage and neither did Mike. I thanked God over and over for showing Mike the way for us to vote! Our vote counts with God too. We are to vote principles,morals,and a way that pleases God. I believed voting for Baldwin expressed Godly values,morals,and would please God. Mike said after much consideration and prayer he felt the same way.

I then came across this blog article from Chelsey and knew we made the right decision. I let my husband read it and then sent it out through email and text to family and friends. I got some opposition from friends because they thought voting for Baldwin is throwing away your vote. Like I said, if you believe that fine. That's your thoughts,not mine. I kindly replied with those words and that I wanted people to be aware of a more Godly man to vote for. Here is an article that addresses the "throw away vote". I have been praying for people to see how God wants them to vote. I do realize that Obama or McCain will more likely get it,but I'm still voting my morals and values as a Christian. God allows certain things to take place to fulfill prophecy and because we do live in a fallen world. I just secretly wonder how can one vote for even McCain when he does not stand where true Christians should stand on key issues.

I belief marriage is ordained of God and intended to be between one man and one woman. Some people say that homosexuals marrying do not demean their marriage. That doesn't matter, it is an abomination to God. Bottom line. I believe life begins at conception. A fertilized egg is a baby and it is not to be killed in the womb or out of the womb. Murder is a sin. Those issues are very vital today. As we see Innocent babies have been murdered since 1973 and marriage is now under attack.

I just wanted to introduce him to those who may not know about him and don't want to vote for the "lesser of two evils". So I really,strongly encourage everyone to check him out.

Whom will your house serve? And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.
Joshua 24:15

Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide.
Psalm 26:1

Before the LORD: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.
Psalm 96:13

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
I Corinthians 10:31

"Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost." -- John Quincy Adams

My Love

There is my beautiful pink rose Mike got me!

That vase is what my flowers came in on our 1st wedding anniversary!

Yesterday I wasn't having the best day. Daniel was very whiney and I was too. I was talking to my sweet husband and he knew I was feeling down. So when he got home from work (which was not on time due to a wreck) he brought me a single pink rose. I love pink and I love flowers! He's not always romantic in the ways other women talk about their husbands being. But he does it at just the right time and I know it's from his heart and not just because of a holiday or anniversary. I love him so much and I'm so blessed to be his wife. Thank you Lord for my husband and his love for me. He doesn't always do the "romantic" things I think he should,but I always know he loves me more than I deserve. Let me in return show him the love he shows me.

"

The birth of Daniel

I wanted to take time to write about Daniel's birth. I wrote about it right after he was born,but not in a lot of detail.

I decided on using a Certified Nurse Midwife,whom a friend of mine had used. She's a Christian lady and likes to do things naturally. I also wanted a Doula or Child Birth Assistant. I have a dear Sister who is a Doula and Midwife. She gladly wanted to work with me. I wanted a totally natural experience with little intervention as possible. Home births are illegal here in Alabama so I could not go that route. I did want to stay home as long as possible because we did not do a lot of the routine procedures or we did not want too. I did not want any medication (epidural or spinal block) and I did not want an IV hooked up. I wanted to try every position I could during the pushing process. We did not want any vaccinations given to Daniel and did not want him leaving the room without one of us. I was going to breastfeed immediately after Daniel was out and we did not want to cut the cord until it was through pumping on it's own. I was opposed to a C-section unless it was absolutely medically needed,which my CNM,Doula,and husband agreed. We had researched and got information from my CNM and Doula on all these decisions. That mixed with a lot of prayer, guided us to our decisions. They weren't popular with a lot of family,but we're trail blazers. So with all that info,we'll go into how it all begin.

Thursday the 24th of January we went to my doctor's appointment. My "due date" was on January 20th,so by some people's thoughts I was over due. I was so tense that Cindy,Certified Nurse Midwife, could not check my cervix. I hated that procedure and for some reason just could not loosen up. She had not been able to check me at all at any appointments. When it comes to pain I am a wimp. After she tried to check me, she got a call from the hospital about one of her patients in labor so she had to run. We made the appointment for next week and we went on home I think. We may have stopped for some lunch,but can't really remember. (Cindy, my CNM, had home births with all her children and delivered her last one. So I was really excited to be using her!) When we got home, we just relaxed on the futon and put our Kutless dvd in. We were actually thinking about going to pick up Mike's youngest sister,Heather, so she could spend the night with us. We never did and ended up taking a nap. We laid down at like 4:30 and at 5:30 a gush of water come flooding out. I woke up and thought oh no my water has broke! I called my Doula(child birth assistant),Tammy, and told her what was going on. She confirmed that my mucus plug had come out or was coming out. She was making her way to our apartment too. I then started having minor contractions. I wasn't scared,but just trying to relax. Mike was very helpful and supportive.

Once Tammy got to our home, the contractions become more intense. She tried to check to see if I had dilated,but I was once again too tense. She was really worried because Cindy had not been able to check me at all. Mike and her went up front and discussed it. I had no idea of course that they were worried. They both wasn't sure how I would do in the future. I remember I kept quoting Bible verses during the contractions and just praying to God for strength to endure them. Tammy stayed that night for my comfort. Tammy is also a midwife. We went to church with her at Riverside Full Gospel while we were dating and engaged. She has 7 children of her own and delivered the last one by herself with her husband's help. So I was very confident if needs be, I could have Daniel Paul at home. I did not get a lot of sleep,nor did Mike, I was having contractions off and on. I slept some in short amounts,but not a long period.

Friday my contractions slacked off and were not as hard. Tammy had to go home to check on one of her kids and she said that would be back that afternoon. Mike helped me breath through the contractions and we just prayed and prayed. Tammy made it back to our home around 3 or 4 and the contractions picked up again. All day I practiced not tensing up during contractions so that Tammy could check my cervix that afternoon. God really helped me and gave me grace. She was able to check me and I was at 6 cm. at 6 p.m. on Friday. She told me to get up and walk some. Once I did that the contractions weren't so intense. I tried to eat some,but just did not want anything. I did drink some water and juice. She had the birthing ball,which I got on and it really helped. She also suggested a warm bath. So I tried that and Mike poured water over my belly. Oh the contractions were still coming strong! Once I got out of the tub I felt like I was on a high. It was the strangest thing. I felt so good and light. That lasted for about 30 minutes. I sat on the ball again and they took turn rubbing my lower back. Oh the pain there was so much! It was freezing cold outside and it begin to rain! Around midnight Tammy checked me again and I was at 8 cm by then. We continued with the birthing ball,baths,and breathing through contractions. Writing this all out really makes me feel like I'm doing it again right now!

Around 2:30 Saturday morning we headed to the hospital. The contractions were so hard and intense. They just were not regular. Cindy was on her way too. Oh trying to make it down the stairs and to the truck while it was raining,almost sleeting was an adventure. My the pain. Who would think such a little baby could bring all that pain on? We finally got in the truck and on the way to the hospital. There were some problems at the desk. Ugh, I was just ready to see Cindy. They got me a wheel chair,but it hurt to sit. So I walked half of the way and rode the other half. They were shocked I was walking! We made it to the room and went over the birth plan with the lady in there. Nurse I guess,she wasn't mine though. We made sure that what we suggested would be respected and we had no problem. She asked me to pee in a cup and I tried,but I just could not urinate. Oh I was hurting too! Cindy made it in there and I was so happy! We only had Cindy,Tammy,Mike,and Maryann,the nurse. Cindy advised me not to pee in the cup. It was going to be almost $250 and Cindy said I did not need too. I walked and sat on the birthing ball over and over. We knew before hand that Daniel was in the face up position and had not turned. Cindy and Tammy both said I could deliver that way,it just may hurt more. Cindy had me lay down so she could check me and I was still at 8 cm. My water was still intact also. Cindy was worried about me up till this point. She told Mike she just wasn't sure how much I could handle. I just kept praying for God's strength and His mercy.

They figured out laying down made my contractions harder,so they had me lay on my sides. They were trying to get Daniel to come down with harder contractions and maybe turn. He was pretty high still. They went on for hours. They were laying hands on my belly and praying for God's will to be done. It was really amazing! His presence was so strong in that room it was unbelievable! Who knew a labor and delivery could be that way? I imagined that's what God had in mind all along. My sweet husband did so good! He was coaching me on and helping me breath too! They all took turns rubbing my back. I was so proud of Mike! He thought he would be scared,but I knew better. With all the training he did in Patrol Academy,I knew he would be prepared for this. I want to bottle up that time in the delivery room and never let it go. It was truly a wonderful experience! They tried to turn him from the inside and out,but it was not working. We kept praying God's will be done and for us to be safe. So around 10 that morning we were having to make some decisions. I had been laboring since 5:30 Thursday. They all saw I was wearing down and I can't remember everything due to that. Cindy wanted to either break my water or get an epidural which would lead to pitocin. We were dead set against that. We both knew I could not handle the hard,abnormal contractions. She left the room for us to talk. Tammy stayed in there with us. I just didn't know what to do. Mike knew something had to be soon because Daniel was not coming down for some reason and I was wearing down. I mean what was I supposed to do? I just wanted to have Daniel natural and my dream of that was not happening right now.

We decided to try for breaking my water. Right as Cindy tried to do so,it broke! It came gushing out! The contractions just weren't regular,but they were hard. I had the urge to push not long after my water broke. I used the birthing bar,the birthing stool,hands in chest position,squatting position,and I think that's all. Oh to push,felt so good! Mike was right there with me! At 1:oo Cindy said we needed to go with a C-section. She was so upset about it because she knew how badly I did not want one. She teared up some,but Mike had made the decision. He knew I couldn't handle much more and he wanted me to be safe too. I never verbally said yes,my pride would not let me. I did shake my head and knew that God would take care of us. Forrest, he would give the spinal block, came in and talked to me about it. He was very nice. I had to try and sign the paper! I'm in the middle of contractions and just shaking my head. I'm thinking, hello I don't care, if you're going to do something,then do it! Then, the 2 surgeons come in, Dr. Clarke and Dr. Taylor. They introduced themselves and told me I was in good hands. They were very nice and comforting. They wanted to put me in the wheel chair to go to the operating room,but I just couldn't sit. So I walked,yes walked. Oh it was painful that way too! I just couldn't sit down. Cindy and Mike had me by the arm and Tammy was behind me. I finally made it there and they were all shocked. I thought secretly thanks Adam and Eve,ha! Mike waited outside while they prepped me for surgery.

They put me on the table to do the spinal block. I just couldn't stop shaking because of contractions. It was crazy really! Cindy finally just pulled me to her and pushed me down in a bend position,so Forrest could do the spinal block. Right as he went to do it I thought I felt Daniel coming down,so Cindy checked me really quick,but it wasn't him. Finally, he got the spinal block in and within minutes I was numb. I was glad,but still my mind was racing. I just wanted it to be over with. They let Mike in and he sat beside me,as did Forrest. They begin the surgery. I really don't know how they did it (in detail) and I do not want to know. I am a wimp when it comes to this kind of stuff seriously. I can't stand blood,needles,or anything medically related. Forrest was talking to me the whole time along with Mike. He was such a good guy! I felt them tug and he asked if I could feel that? I replied with Oh yes. So he cranked up more medicine! I started hemorrhaging during surgery Mike said. Thankfully, I was okay. I heard Daniel Paul cry and I knew it was over! They weighed him really quick and measured him. He was 9 lbs 3 oz and 21 inches long. They brought him over to us and he was so cute! He had a head full of black hair and piercing blue eyes. They finished me up and sent me to my room. Cindy and Tammy were there and they latched Daniel on to breastfeed! He fed for 55 minutes. I was in and out of it though. Family was there and they got to see Daniel too. It wasn't what I thought was going to happen,but it was definately how God had it planned. There's not a doubt in my mind now. As it says in Psalm 18:30 As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.

It was a rough recovery,but God helped me. Mike took care of Daniel the whole time in the hospital. I was twice as sore as most women are since I labored 42 hours,then had a C-section. He did so good too! He took care of us both. It was a very intimate time and I treasure it. I love my husband so much! We made it home after 3 days in the hospital. Daniel continued to breastfeed,despite some problems with me. I had a time with breastfeeding. We found out a few days after Daniel got here I had inverted nipples. So I got a nipple shield and used it. My milk finally came. It was only God Daniel did not loose more weight than he already had. We decided not to have him circumcised either. He came here just how he was in the womb. No shots or no cuts. When he turned 2 months we had to put him on goat's milk to help him gain weight. He still drinks it too! He's a thriving,healthy,fun little baby boy.

So all in all, I labored 42 hours. I labored 31 hours at home and 11 hours at the hospital. It was such a great experience. I didn't get the vaginal birth I hoped for,but I did do all the things I wanted to be able to do. Next time I won't be so stubborn. Although, I'm reading a book about VBAC's and really want to do that. I'll still use the same 2 women I did because it was totally God I had them. They said Daniel was in a deep tranversial position. I just know God had it planned how He wanted it. It says in Proverbs 16:9 A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.

Thankful Thursday- Family

I want to participate in Thankful Thursday's. I think it is a good way to keep a grateful attitude. Iris talks about joy. What is joy to you? My thankfulness is toward my family this week. So here is what I am thankful for this week.

• I'm thankful that my husband is on day shift and we can put our lil' man to bed together. I'm also thankful for the time we've been able to spend together just as husband and wife. I love my husband and love to spend time with him.
• I'm thankful for my son. He is such joy to raise! He is so lovable,sweet,funny,and adventerous. I am blessed to be able to stay at home with him everyday,all day long and we have a lot of fun! He is 8 1/2 months and learning so much! I'm so thankful God gave him to us.
• I'm thankful that the Lord has had His hand on our money and that we're able to get our bills paid and have a little extra for needed items.
• I'm thankful for my parents. My parents are amazing! My Daddy is a Carpenter and my Mama works at Wal-Mart. They're not ordinary people,but they are extraordinary! They raised me in a Godly manner and now I can do the same with my son.
• I'm thankful for my brother and sister. My brother has 2 daughters and just found out there is one on the way! My sister has one son. Both are married and serving the Lord.
• I'm thankful for God being God. For Him speaking to me during the day while I take care of my son and our home.
• I'm thankful for our church family and our Pastor Bro. Terry. God is really moving among the people there and a lot are coming to know Jesus as their Savior.

For more of Thankful Thursday head over to Grace Alone.

Isaiah 64

1Oh that thou wouldest rend the heavens, that thou wouldest come down, that the mountains might flow down at thy presence,
2As when the melting fire burneth, the fire causeth the waters to boil, to make thy name known to thine adversaries, that the nations may tremble at thy presence!
3When thou didst terrible things which we looked not for, thou camest down, the mountains flowed down at thy presence.
4For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him.
5Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways: behold, thou art wroth; for we have sinned: in those is continuance, and we shall be saved.
6But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
7And there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee: for thou hast hid thy face from us, and hast consumed us, because of our iniquities.
8But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.
9Be not wroth very sore, O LORD, neither remember iniquity for ever: behold, see, we beseech thee, we are all thy people.
10Thy holy cities are a wilderness, Zion is a wilderness, Jerusalem a desolation.
11Our holy and our beautiful house, where our fathers praised thee, is burned up with fire: and all our pleasant things are laid waste.
12Wilt thou refrain thyself for these things, O LORD? wilt thou hold thy peace, and afflict us very sore?

I was very moved by this passage this morning. Have a blessed weekend!

At the Well-Keepers at Home

It's time At the Well! I love Monday mornings! I pray you'll join us and head over to Chesley's blog at Joyfully Living for His Glory after you're done reading my post. Chelsey is talking about being keepers of our home. She had some great insight and great tips for us! Here are the questoins she posed to us.


Let' s get a little vulnerable here ladies - do you keep a neat and tidy home?
I'm having to learn how to with a 8 month old crawling baby and a not so neat freak husband. I try my best,but I want to do better.

If so, what do you do to keep on top of this? Schedules? Routines?If you have children at home, do they get involved? I really don't have a schedule or routine. I just start with the dishes first,then the remainder of the kitchen,and go from there. Daniel usually is taking things out instead of putting them up!

If you are lacking in this area, why do you think that is? Some days I lack because I just want to rest or relax while Daniel naps. Other times I lack because I just sit down to play with Daniel or spend time with my husband.


That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,
To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
Titus 2:4-5

I love taking care of our home,it is a delight! When I lived with my parents,I helped around the house a lot! I loved it,but now that this is my house it's even better! I always like my dishes washed and my bed made. When those 2 things are done I feel much better about my home. Chelsey gave a good tip. She said stand at your front door and look through the eye's of company and I am going to start doing this! Living in a 840 sq. ft. apartment, it can get cluttered easy and things just laid here or there. I do a run through before my husband comes home and pick up toys off the floor,another tip from Chelsey.

It is hard to do with children,especially small infants,but if you can find one or two things that you think makes the house look better when cleaned and get it tidy it will make a world of difference. For instance, I like the dishes done,the bed made,the table cleaned off,and the bar area clean. So I get those done so if I get caught up in taking care of Daniel,then the house does like decent. We don't have much company at all and my husband actually likes a some-what messy house ha! I am the one who cannot stand it though! We are to do everything,as we are doing it unto the Lord. So keeping our homes tidy,not perfect (because like Chelsey said we live there) is service to the Lord.

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
I Corinthians 10:31

Check out Chelsey's blog @ Joyfully Living for His Glory . God bless!

North Korean Christians

North Korea is one of the most evil countries on earth. They are probably the most hostile towards Christians. I got my VOM magazine in the mail this week and started reading it this morning as I was eating breakfast. The magazine this month is focusing on North Korea and our brothers and sisters there. I was reading a story about Choi Yong Jin (not her real name). She was a worshipper of the leader there until a man gave her a Bible. She begin to read it and realized where life really came from,Jesus Christ. Of course the authorities found out about her "spy" endeavor,as they call it. She was taken to prison and beaten brutally. She then had a trial and was found not guilty,but of course things are never what they seem. She had a second trial and was so brutally beaten that her face was paralyzed and she couldn't talk,so they sentenced her 15 years in prison. She prayed and prayed there. She was beaten everyday badly. Her husband finally got enough money to "bail" her out. She escaped to China and now volunteers for VOM. She said that she hasn't forgotten her people. Continue to pray her for and the Christians in North Korea. Also pray for the non-Christians because they are so deceived by the authorities there.

As I read this and looked at the pictures of North Korean Christians, I asked God this question. 'Why them Lord? Why not us?' But I didn't get a response. I mean I'm no better than these people,we are equal,but I am the one who isn't persecuted as they are. I can say Jesus,have a Bible,and go to church with no problem. I then asked, 'Why aren't they free,but we are?' I got an answer this time. God spoke to me and said 'They are free,more so than you are.' I stopped what I was doing and I knew what He meant. What He said is very true. It's sad,but true. I looked at the picture of believers secretly takin communion. It shouldn't be that way! We take communion like once a year and we think it's wonderful and we're holy. But do we even really know what it means? We face little to no persecution here in the United States. Are we truly ready if something that like came here? We are so free physically to do as we please,but I don't think we are free spiritually like we should be. Ah, I crave to be like them! Those Christians who literally will DIE to have one ripped page from the Bible! They will worship Jesus at no cost! In contrast it does costs them something. It costs them their family sometimes. It costs them their belongings sometimes. It costs them their life most of the time. But to them nothing is more important than their Lord Jesus Christ. Why don't the American Christians get it? Why are we so much like the Israelites? We love the Lord one day and the next we don't. I'm not talking in general here,I'm talking to myself and everyone who reads this blog. We worry so much about our homes,our cars,our make-up,our clothes,our t.v.'s,and so on. We truly do not crave Jesus like those Christians who are persecuted do. My heart still burns for the persecuted and those who do not know the Lord. But I've hardened my heart towards America in many ways. They do not want the Gospel of Jesus or anything to do with God. They have enough things to "fill" them up. I get so angry because we are so selfish,self-absorbed,and spoiled! Even myself! When I came back from Honduras, I was changed. I did not want to be how I was. I did not want to just forget the hunger I saw in the Hondurian people for Jesus. They didn't even know who he was,but when they found out that he died on a cross for them they were overjoyed! They craved him. What happend to me? Why have I went back to what I was and how I was? It took a few years to get there,but I'm here. I'm the epitomy of the American people. Oh,but wait! I read my Bible,I pray,I go to church,I bless my food,I don't cuss,I don't smoke,hey I don't even drink alcohol! Is that good enough? Is that truly the only thing God wants from me? I know the answer is no. I don't have to pray 24/7,but why can't I be more thankful? Why can't I be more gracious to others? Why can't I be more kind? Why can't I look more like Jesus did?

Not only do I have myself to worry about now,I have a son. I have a precious little boy who does not know what t.v. is,does not know about clothes,or his appearance. I do not want Daniel to be self-absorbed. I do not want Daniel to even care about cartoons! I want Daniel to crave God's Word from the time he can really talk and understand what I am saying. I want him to love God and want to worship Him with his lifestyle! I want Daniel to be so bold for Christ that he is not afraid to do things different from other boys,youth,or young men! I want him to know about the persecuted church and how free physically we are. I want Daniel to be like Jeremiah when he said the Word was like a fire in his bones! I want Daniel to proclaim the Word of God to the brokenhearted,the blind,the prisoner! I want Daniel to see how blessed he is,not because he has a t.v. or toys,but because he can speak the name of Jesus in public and that he can take his Bible where he wants. I want Daniel to be empowered with the Word of God at a very young age,unlike my husband and I. I don't want Daniel to be 15 or 19 and just figuring out he has power over the enemy through the blood of Jesus or that God can heal him because it says in Isaiah 53:5 by your strips I am healed! No, I want Daniel to be like the Old Testament Daniel,hence why we picked the name. Our children are so precious and important! I can't wait to have a little girl who cares nothing about Hannah Montana or Barbies,but craves the Word of God. Who wants to be like Queen Esther or Ruth. Oh God, have mercy on our children! Grant them desires that we do not have! Give them the eyes to see what we do not!

Father, please forgive me for I do know what I do. I am sorry! I am selfish and ungrateful! I am self-absorbed! I am spoiled and I am not grateful! I say I am! But I'm NOT! I am no better than those who hung you on the cross and spat in your face! I am wretched and I need YOU! Not once,but every day,every mintue,every second, I need you,Jesus!

Psalm 37

I love this passage of scripture!

1 Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.
3 Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
4 Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
5 Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
6 And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.
7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
9 For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.
10 For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be.
11 But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
12 The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.
13 The LORD shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming.
14 The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, and to slay such as be of upright conversation.
15Their sword shall enter into their own heart, and their bows shall be broken.
16 A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.
17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous.
18 The LORD knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever.
19 They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.
20 But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away.
21 The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth.
22 For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off.
23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.
25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.
26 He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed.
27 Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore.
28 For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off.
29 The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever.
30 The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment.
31 The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.
32 The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him.
33 The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.
34 Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it.
35 I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree.
36 Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.
37 Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.
38 But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off.
39 But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble.
40 And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.