Showing posts with label Thankfulness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thankfulness. Show all posts

Friday, November 13, 2015

Core Beliefs: You’re More Than You Think!

Lifeline Pregnancy Care Center

You're Invited!
Saturday, November 14
9:00-10:00 am
Millersburg Area Senior Center

Core Beliefs: You’re More Than You Think!

You can view life’s difficulties positively.
Learn how at this free presentation by Psychiatric Nurse Bellann Klinger, RN-BC.
Positive mental health strategies will be presented from both a cognitive behavioral and Christian perspective (Philippians 4:8).
All are welcome.

Sponsored By: 

Lifeline Pregnancy Care Center / 717-692-2183 / lifeline@pa.net
Lifeline offers free pregnancy tests, parenting classes and baby supplies like diapers, formula, clothes, strollers and so much more. All of our services are free.

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Zechariah 10-14: He Hears the Silent Scream

Zechariah 10:11
Amplified Bible (AMP)

11 And [the Lord] will pass through the sea of distress and affliction [at the head of His people, as He did at the Red Sea]; and He will smite down the waves of the sea, and all the depths of the [river] Nile shall be dried up and put to shame; and the pride of Assyria shall be brought down and the scepter or rod [of the taskmasters of Egypt] shall pass away.

 
 
I love the imagery of this verse.  When the Lord leads, He smites down the waves of distress and affliction. 
 
Imagine being trapped in a tumultuous storm encompassing body, soul and spirit.  The sea's waves overwhelm and water displaces the oxygen in the lungs.  Gasping for air, yet only taking in more water, the process of drowning occurs.  

Drowning is a silent event. A drowning person no longer has the ability to scream, raise her head or arms out of the water, or struggle violently (Zafares, 1998).
 
Often a person experiencing emotional turmoil screams silently as well. 

 
 
 
Jesus hears the silent screams of a drowning heart.  He passes through "the sea of distress and affliction" and "will smite down the waves of the sea."
 
Hold fast to the One Who will save you!  In the midst of the violent waves, He is with you passing before you "through the sea of distress and affliction."  He makes a way where there is none.  He makes the mountain a plain and straightens the crooked path.  He will never leave you and certainly never forsake you.  He is faithful...always!!!


Saturday, October 18, 2014

Ezekiel 32-34: God's Hydrangea Promise

Ezekiel 34:11-16
Amplified Bible (AMP)

11 For thus says the Lord God: Behold, I, I Myself, will search for My sheep and will seek them out.
 
12 As a shepherd seeks out his sheep in the day that he is among his flock that are scattered, so will I seek out My sheep; and I will rescue them out of all places where they have been scattered in the day of clouds and thick darkness.
 
13 And I will bring them out from the peoples and gather them from the countries and will bring them to their own land; and I will feed them upon the mountains of Israel, by the watercourses, and in all the inhabited places of the country.
 
14 I will feed them with good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be; there shall they lie down in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel.
 
15 I will feed My sheep and I will cause them to lie down, says the Lord God.
 
16 I will seek that which was lost and bring back that which has strayed, and I will bandage the hurt and the crippled and will strengthen the weak and the sick, but I will destroy the fat and the strong [who have become hardhearted and perverse]; I will feed them with judgment and punishment.
 
These verses give me personal encouragement among many verses of censure directed towards the Lord's sheep.  No matter how we have failed or others have failed us, our Heavenly Father promises...
 
  • I Myself, will search
  • I will rescue
  • I will bring them out
  • I will feed them 
  • I will cause them to lie down
  • I will seek and bring back
  • I will bandage and strengthen
 
The Lord is wonderful!  He has revealed Himself to me, personally in all of the ways He has promised above!
 
One of the ways He fulfills His promises to me is through dreams.  Several years ago, my Abba gave me a beautiful "promise dream." 
 
In this dream, Jesus handed me a single blue hydrangea.  My heart could feel His intense love and I awoke feeling loved simultaneously a sweet flowery scent permeated the atmosphere in the room!
 
I knew the Lord was pouring out His love.  I knew He was giving me a gift.  But, I didn't fully comprehend what He was communicating until recently.
 
My husband, Strongman, and I just celebrated thirty years of marriage on September 22nd.  My sweet husband took me to the beach for a week to celebrate. 
 
During the months before our trip, the Lord reminded me of the beautiful "blue hydrangea dream."  I felt like He said that His gift of love to me was a husband who has loved me from my youth.  That no matter what trials or temptations or failings both of us have walked through, His grace kept us together.  His grace empowered us to love and forgive each other.
 
In honor of the Lord and my Strongman, I covertly planned a beach renewal of vows.  Both of my wonderful sisters assisted me with my plan.  My sister, Maryann, ordered the dress so Strongman wouldn't see the charge on our credit card.  My sister, Jane, altered the dress.  Thank you, wonderful Sisters!  My Dad allowed me to store the dress at his house, so Strongman wouldn't see it.  :)
 
Let me encourage those who are married.  The Lord binds two together; His grace is the glue.  No matter what attack the evil one launches against your marriage, His grace, the awesome power of God is available.  Cling to Father!  Embrace your mate!  Remember to forgive!  Receive His gift!
 
 
 
 
 

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Journey Through the Psalms Day 29

 Read Psalms 29, 59, 89, 119, 149.


‎"The Lord will give [unyielding and impenetrable] strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace." (Psalm 29:11) Thank You, Lord, I feel like I'm living this verse out right now! I appreciate You!!! "Your word is a lamp to my feet and light to my path." Psalm 119:105 Step by step, You light my way. Keep Your word burning in my heart, so that my path remains fixed and destined for You!
With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace 



Psalm of Beautiful Grace
Written after reading Psalm 119.
12/15/01 4:00 am

Teach me Your commandments,
That I might not sin against You.
Give me Your understanding,
That I may keep Your whole word.

I cry out to You with my soul- to You, my God.
For You alone can save me.

You are my Portion.
You are my Provider.

Your mercy endures forever,
And Your loving-kindness is poured out to me.
You are the Treasure that I seek.

I have sought for You my whole life!
I searched for You, before I even knew You.
My soul remembered the day of my creation,
The day Your awesome hand fashioned me
In my mother’s womb.

My spirit rejoices in the day of my salvation,
That day long ago.
You did not leave me in my tears.
You did not forsake me in my sins.

You provided a way for me, a path on which to walk.
Your Holy Spirit has led me in Your ways.
Strengthen me by Your Spirit,
That I would always obey Your commands.
For You delight in obedience, more than sacrifices.

Teach me to walk in Your ways, forevermore.
I will be pleasing to You all the days of my life.
Your salvation is never ending,
And my reward is eternity with You.

Let me sit at Your feet and worship You, my King.
Allow me to anoint You with my tears.
Your love is sweet, it touches my soul,
My spirit rejoices in Your touch.

You call me as a lover calls His beloved
With gentle cords and a soft voice.
Teach me Your love; Whisper Your heart.
Impart to me the ways that will touch Your heart.

Your eyes search.
Search for me, my Lord!
Let them rest on Your servant.

Your eyes are flaming; They are fire.
They pierce through the facade of men.
They view the heart.
Your eyes melt me!

Where can I go to hide from you?
Why would I ever want to hide from my strength,
My fortress?
For when I fall, You pick me up.
When I transgress, You wipe me clean.

All things are possible with You, my Abba.
You have the power to make all my ways straight.
Let me always rely on You.

My children will bless You, because of my ways.
Let Your holy name be praised!

You are perfect- the consummation of perfection.
Let Your perfection consume me.
Let Your ways bring me peace.

My enemies try to turn me from You,
But they will not succeed,
For I am in the palm of my Creator’s hand,
And no one may snatch me from You.

Strengthen me with Your love.
Let your Holy Fire burn in me.
Let me never put You to shame.
I’m after Your heart!

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Journey Through the Psalms Day 28

Read Psalm 28, 58, 88, 118, 148.


The Psalmist lists all the things in creation that praise God, and it's a long list. I am blessed to be able to praise my God along with the angels, the sun and moon, the waters above the heavens, the sea monsters, the lightning, hail, fog and frost, the stormy wind, the mountains, hills, fruitful trees and cedars, the beasts and all the cattle, creeping things and flying birds, kings and people, princes, rulers and judges, young men and maidens, old men and children!!! [Psalm 148] I join together with the wonderful company of created things in order to praise my God! He gives me my own personal heart song to sing, because I am near to Him!!! ♥


With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace :) 

Journey Through the Psalms Day 27

Read Psalms 27, 57, 87, 117, 147.


 
‎"The Lord is my Light and Salvation-whom shall I fear or dread?" [Psalm 27:1] Lord, You have done a great work in me. Fear has been driven out of my soul!!! I require a continuing overflowing measure of Your grace, Lord, because every now and then fear of man keeps coming back to see if it may torment me once again. I say, "No" in the great name of Jesus!!!! You heal the brokenhearted and bind up their wounds, Jesus!!!! [Psalm 147:3] I love the way You actually look for those who are oppressed, Jesus, and free them by Your awesome grace!!! I sang "Amazing Grace" twice yesterday by request of a friend. How awesome to be able to declare God's grace in a place, that was full of oppression! Thank You, Jesus, for allowing me to minister to those oppressed. I am Your hands and feet!!! Amazing is Your grace!!!!!
With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace :) 

Journey Through the Psalms Day 26

Read Psalm 26, 56, 86, 116, 146.


Lord, You examine my heart (emotions) and my mind (thoughts) and where I fall short You lovingly convict. May my heart and mind be more and more like Yours every day. [Psalm 26] One of my favorite verses is "You number and record my wanderings; put my tears into Your bottle -are they not in Your book?" [Psalm 56:8-9] I love the fact that Jesus loves me enough to take note of every tear that I have cried! I never want to be so busy with stuff that I neglect to notice the tears of another. Holy Spirit empower me with Your compassion, the compassion that take note of every tear.


With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace :) 

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Journey Through the Psalms Day 25

Read Psalms 25, 55, 85, 115, 145.

‎"The secret [of the sweet, satisfying companionship] of the Lord have they who fear (revere and worship) Him, and He will show them His covenant and reveal to them its [deep, inner] meaning." Psalm 25:14
Amplified Bible

‎"He will fulfill the desires of those who reverently and worshipfully fear Him; He also will hear their cry and will save them." Psalm 145:19 Amplified Bible

There's nothing greater in this world than to have God reveal the deep inner meaning of our relationship. I want more of our sweet and satisfying relationship, Jesus! The reason this is possible is because you heard my cry and saved me. I am forever grateful!!!


With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace :) 

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Journey through the Psalms Day 22

Read Psalms 22, 52, 82, 112, 142.

There have been situations when You have been the only One to which I could pour out my complaint and tell my trouble (142:2). I am forever grateful for Your listening ear, Jesus. No man could have comforted me the way You consoled my heart. You are the Perfect Man, Jesus- meek and loving, yet strong and victorious! My heart belongs to You...forever!!!
With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace :)

Monday, June 20, 2011

In Honor of Fire's High School Graduation!

Fire received his high school diploma this past Saturday amongst family and friends.  I felt it important to give an overview of his awesome accomplishments these last four years, and I would like to share them with all of my blog friends as well.


Never Talk to Strangers




Face Booked


Secret Project 2


Rocketeer Cover
The guys did all of the video and music!!!


Buzzsaw Louie

Nightmare on Myles Street

Face Booked


Tricking Friends

 



Soon to be Released Internet commercial for Blockhouse Furniture

Internet Commercial for Blockhouse Furniture



Fantastic Taste

Academics



Four years of English

o 25 books (3 of which are classics) each year

o 4 compositions each year

o 2,500 word composition each year

o Speech each year

o Literature



Three years of mathematics

o Algebra I

o Algebra II

o Geometry



Four years of science

o Physical science

o Chemistry

o Biology

o Human anatomy and physiology



Three years of social studies

o Explored the world views of the West



Geography



Civics (studied the Constitution)



World History



Safety education and fire safety



Physical education

o Twin Valley soccer- two years

o Varsity soccer- two years (earned a letter and a pin, captain senior year, district playoffs x2)

o Varsity Track and field- years (earned two pins, districts x 2) http://beautifulgrace2008.blogspot.com/2010/05/fires-track-trek.html

o Triathlon (x2, 1st place in age class the first year)  http://beautifulgrace2008.blogspot.com/2008/08/fires-first-triathlon.html

o Tricking



Art

o Cinematography

o Acting (oneadaymyles, two Internet commercials for Blockhouse Furniture)



Music

o Youth worship team

o Middle school worship team

o Recorded original music

o Music video

o Coffee houses

o Christian Battle of the Bands



Hours required by PA law: 3,800

Total High School Hours: 5,238 ½

GPA 3.7



Character:  When I began speaking about Fire's character, I broke down into tears.  I am so pleased with the young man he has become!!!



  • Ignite Team (a leadership team within our church youth group)

  • Tender and joyful heart with loads of perseverance

  • Servant

  • Humility with self-confidence

  • Encourager

  • Does not settle for second best. Works for excellence!


Hope you enjoyed!

With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Journey Through the Psalms Day 20

Read Psalm 20, 50, 80, 110, 140.








"Some trust in and boast of chariots and some of horses, but we [I] will trust in and boast of the name the Lord our [my] God." Psalms 20:7
The horses and chariots symbolize the strength and ability of men to deliver. Lord, You are the One I trust. You are the only One Who delivers for You are my "Deliverer." Man's abilities and strength come from You. You are the source of the blessings we enjoy! No matter the diagnosis, no matter the darkness that surrounds me, You are my "Deliverer." I will trust in You!!!


With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace :)

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Journey Through the Psalms Day 19

Read Psalm 19, 49, 79, 109, 139.

Body, soul and spirit are made whole in You, Abba!  It is through not only knowing, but doing Your perfect law that the whole person is restored.  Many souls are sick and fractured because they resfused to submit to Your ways holding on to unforgiveness and offense.  Cleanse me, Holy Spirt, from hidden and unconscious faults.  You say, "No" because You know so much better than I, what is good for me.  By obeying Your word, the "Yes Blessings" are released of which cannot be measured.  Heart peace and joy overflow!!!  I will praise You forevermore!!!  Inspired by Psalm 19.

With Much Love Always...
Beautiful Grace

Friday, June 17, 2011

Journey Through the Psalms Day 17

Read Psalm 17, 47, 77, 107, 137.

"As for me, I will continue beholding Your face in righteousness (rightness, jusice, and right standing with You); I shall be fully satisfied, when I awake [to find myself] beholding Your form [and having sweet communion with You]." Psalm 17:15

With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Journey Through the Psalms Day 16

Read Psalm 16, 46, 76, 106, 136.







I remember the season where sleep escaped me. It was during that time that Your voice was heard clearest because all the noise of day's busyness had ceased. Your counsel instructed my heart in the darkness of day and soul. "Let be and be still," says the Lord to all of you who struggle in the darkness. He is right there with you, open your ears to hear and heed His counsel. Thank You. Lord for Your Love and care. Your are a wonderful Father!!!!


 
With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Journey Through the Psalms Day 14

Read Psalm 14, 44, 74, 104, 134.



‎"Through You" my spiritual enemies are pushed down. "Through You" I am delievered. "Through You" the territory, which rightfully belongs to Your bride is recovered. "Through You" Your turtledove's life is rescued from the wild beast. "Through You" my disease has been healed. "Through You" my foundation remains fixed and firm. "Through You" I will sing praise to You as long as I live!!!



 
With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Journey Through the Psalms Day 13

Read Psalm 13, 43, 73, 103, 133.

...Until I went into the sanctuary of God. Your sanctuary, my Lord, is so much more than a building. You are my Sanctuary, my Refuge, where ever I am. In the midst of every situation, I can run to You to keep me. Hold my right hand and lead me. Counsel me. Apart from my "Sanctuary," there is turmoil and unrest, but with You there is Peace. Thank You! I am grateful!!!

With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Journey Through the Psalms Day 12

Reading Ps 12, 42, 73, 102, 132.

Dear, "Singing God," I love to think about You singing over me, especially in the night. Your sweet voice sooths my soul lulling me to sleep in deep peace. I will praise You yet more and more for Your loving-kindness. ♥

With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Journey Through the Psalms Day 11

Reading Psalm 11, 41, 71, 101, 131.


Lord, You have sustained me on my bed of languishing. Only You could have touched my body and saved, not only its mortal frame, but my soul within me. You provided peace during the healing, and I will praise you all the days of my life telling everyone I meet about Your goodness and miraculous ways. I love You, my "Healer and Comforter."
 
 
With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Journey Through the Psalms- Day 10

Reading today, Psalm 10, 40, 70, 100, 130.  Write your reflections.



Jesus, I remember the times when it felt like you were far away from me, but that was just a feeling. In my most desperate, dark nights, You were closer to me than my stirred emotions could sense. Then you broke through my agitated soul and revealed Yourself in ways that I thought not possible for a man to experience. Thank You, the "One Who Hears My Cries," for hearing me in my humility and oppression and for intervening on my behalf. I will love You forever!!!



With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Thursday, June 9, 2011

"Journey Through the Psalms" Day 9

Read and reflect on Psalm 9, 39, 69, 99, 129.

Jesus, You are the "Knower of All Things." You know my frailty and sins, my blunders and the transient nature of my life. Yet, I cry out to You and You rescue me. Spiritual enemies have taunted me from my youth, BUT they have not prevailed, because You have cut the cords of wickedness! No more do my enemies have the power to affect my soul, because You have rescued me from the pit and pulled me out of the mire. I walk on solid ground with You by my side. Thank You, Jesus, for being the "Knower of All Things!"

With Much Love Always...
Beautiful Grace :)