The Reality of Dreams

Three months ago I wrote my first blog. To most people, its no big deal but to me it was. You see, I’ve had a desire to write for a long time but never could seem to begin. Believing that God planted that desire in my heart, I now understand that God’s timing is not the same as ours. A desire or dream may be given long before it actually begins. In God’s planning there is training and equipping that needs to happen before His child is ready. He is the one who orchestrates the steps needed to get to the starting line. I’m so glad that God held off on my beginning as a writer until I knew Him well. Now I can use my writing to glorify Him and not myself.

I have always loved books, particularly childrens books. As a child I spent many hours in the town library. Reading gave my mind a place to go to and it sparked my imagination. This is where my interest in writing first took root. As I matured, the small flame in my heart was reduced to embers when I realized that I was not a stellar English student. Ever since then I have felt unqualified to be a writer. Yes, I had ideas but if I was unable to convey them properly then it didn’t matter. Not until my daughter was born did my love of books and writing rekindle. My daughter is now 18. It took God’s behind the scenes planning and His perfect timing to get me to the point of hitting the "publish post" button for the first time.

Feeling unqualified to do something for God has only brought me closer to Him. This writing experience has caused me to trust Him with every bit of it. Each time I sit to write I have to believe that He will give me the topic that someone needs to ‘hear.’ I also have to trust that despite my writing ability, the reader will understand what God is trying to tell them. Do I now think I am a polished writer? No way. Am I confident that what I say will make sense to others? No. But what I am confident in, is God! He is the One who gives me the ideas to write about and the heart to encourage others.

Here are a few things I’ve learned thus far.....

1. God is the author, I am only the conduit.
2. God can use what I earnestly put forth.
3. Good writing takes a lot of revision. Being a recovering perfectionist, I sometimes don’t want to do the work for fear it will never be good enough anyway. That is when I need to remember #2.
4. I should not compare my writing with another. This takes my focus off what I am called to do.

Waiting on God to get our dream started is also a matter of trust. Had my own dream started sooner then I would not have had the life experiences yet that God uses in my blogs today. In the Old Testament Joseph had a dream of his 11 brothers bowing down to him. The dream did became a reality, but not until many years later. If you recall Joseph’s story, his life was full of ups and downs that eventually led him to his role of second in command of Egypt. Looking at his circumstances, there were many times when Joseph may have thought the dream would never come true. In the same way, our dreams don’t often start right away either. God is always at work though, preparing for the dream to become a reality. If you are waiting on a God given dream, don’t despair in the waiting. God is at work and His timing is perfect. If you have begun living the dream, keep focused on God’s plan in it. In both cases, believe in God’s ability not your own!

Be blessed,
Jeanine Black
© 2009

Celebrity or Servant?

A recent airing of ‘Celebrity Apprentice’ really surprised me. Having watched the show before, I wasn’t surprised by the usual antics and inappropriate conduct of these superstar contestants. What caught me off guard was something I hadn’t expected to see....humility.

The project was to serve as maids, bellmen, room service, and concierge for guests in five rooms at a swanky New York City hotel. They were expected to replicate the high standards set by the hotel, while catering to the whims of their guests. Being short-staffed and unacquainted with this type of work, the teams were set up for potential disaster. What surprised me though, was how some of these celebrities rose, or should I say lowered, themselves to the challenge! While some of the stars complained about having to clean toilets, Herschel Walker, a Heisman Trophy winning football player, did so without complaint. He had a job to do and he did it willingly.

Joan Rivers, who functioned as concierge, never once used her notable status to gain favor. She truly enjoyed the challenge of meeting the needs of her guests. When a well-known actor checked in, she honored him with respect, and did everything possible to make his stay special. Of course, being only a game, the goal for the teams was to please the hotel management and Donald Trump. In doing so they would receive money for their favorite charity.

So I wondered, how do I handle unpleasant tasks? What is my motivation for doing them without complaining? Although the Bible states that crowns will be given in heaven to those who serve God well, that is not what motivates me. I JUST SIMPLY WANT TO PLEASE THE LORD.....and my husband, and my boss. But, I don’t always do so without complaining or a celebrity attitude.

‘Celebrity Apprentice’ reminded me what it looks like to serve. It showed me that I need to humble myself as I serve others. I shouldn’t whip out a ‘get out of jail free’ card or believe I am too good for a particular job, no matter how mundane or inconvenient it may be. I will admit, though, its not always easy for me. As I reflect on the events of the ‘Last Supper,’ I realize that one reason its not easy is because I have the wrong perspective. I focus on the immediate job and getting it done, but not on anything beyond that.

Do you remember how Jesus washed the disciples feet? He did it willingly and lovingly. If anyone had the right to be honorably discharged from a duty, it was Jesus! He was God! Jesus did not complain about performing this menial service, in fact, He volunteered to do it! Why? Because He had God’s perspective in view. Seeing an act of service from God’s perspective, is to see beyond the moment and into eternity.

Taking on a servant role, while being a king, was the example of how all of us should serve God. Jesus was preparing His disciples for the future work He had for them. Without the right perspective of who they were, relative to who God was, they would not make an eternal impact in the lives of others. God’s perspective in Jesus’ life also led Him to be crucified. Jesus prayed that He not have to go to the cross, all the while humbling Himself to the Father’s will. God knew that Jesus had to die and be risen in order for mankind to be restored to a right relationship with Him. That particular act was much bigger than the temporary pain of His present; a resonating impact for eternity! For us, our status as being children of a king affords us no celebrity status or release from serving others. What is does afford us, though, is this...lots of great opportunities to impact lives for eternity!

Be blessed

Jeanine Black

©Jeanine Black 2009

Beyond the Infraction

I was running late. Not only did I have my hair to dry and my clothes to iron but my husband presented me with his shirt to iron too. Don’t get me wrong, my husband is a great guy, but that irritated me. As I ironed, I grumbled inside. Okay, so I had gotten in the shower later than I should have. Sure, I hadn’t expected to have to do a quick mend on my blazer, but I could have made it, I thought. Now there was no chance for me to be ready on time. Knowing that my husband hates being late, made me want to blame him for the fact that he would soon be annoyed with me. Then I remembered something... I was fortunate to have a husband’s shirt to iron at all.

My sister-in-law had suffered from allergies and was always sniffling or sneezing. Like snoring, these sounds can become very irritating. My brother admitted to me that he used to complain about it but after her death in a car accident, he would have given anything to hear those sounds again! I’m glad that his words stuck in my head, and that God pulls them out occasionally and drags them into my heart. None of us know how long we will have a spouse with us, or a child or a parent. God is the only One who knows.

It’s very easy to fall into the trap of complaining about inconveniences, or the inconsiderate behavior of others. In our world of "hurry" we have less patience. Our schedules do not allow for things to deviate from our plan and we complain when it does. That’s why it takes a conscience effort to look beyond the infraction to the blessing. This is not easy, but we have a God who is ready to help us when we ask. He can give us His perspective and His patience to do it.

The shirt incident was a reminder for me to appreciate that I have a husband. A reminder that God has blessed me with someone to share my ups and downs with. Someone with whom I have produced a beautiful child with. That same person can be aggravating. He can even be wrong. However, I have the choice of whether to embrace the blessing or pick at the infractions. .

Be blessed-

Jeanine Black

PS. This is not a call to ignore abusive behavior. Seek help if you are in that type of situation!

The Joy of Recycling

Since the introduction of the bottle and can redemption program, I've noticed far fewer crumpled and rusted containers scattered along the roadside. The nickel deposit acts as the incentive to have containers returned for recycling. The transformation of these containers, from used and empty to new and useful, prevents them from eternal burial in a landfill. Since redemption is not a mandatory program, people still have the choice of what they will do with their empty containers. They can throw them in the trash. They can put them out for curbside recycling. They can take them to a redemption center for recycling and get a nickel for each one. Or, they could simply never open them and avoid having to do anything at all. Pretty ridiculous idea, I know.

God made all human beings to be useful and serve a purpose. Some end up crumpled and torn because of choices they've made, or from abuse received at the hand of another. They are often considered unredeemable trash and thrown by the roadside.

There are other humans who don't get so banged up by life. Their choices are not as detrimental, like the first group, even though they are still crushed and torn at times. Usually their potential for a new purpose is recognized, gaining them opportunities for second chances.

The third type of human appears unscathed by life. Preserving their reputation of being full is of utmost importance. They fight to protect themselves from being used for God's intended purpose. Being emptied and made into something else is not an option in their mind. Their arrogance often alienates them from making close friends and leads to inner loneliness.

Thankfully we have a Redeemer who sees beyond our outer appearance! Jesus knows our hurts, and sees our deep desire for another chance! He came to seek the crumpled, lost and discarded cans and bottles called people. His decision of whether to recycle you has NOTHING to do with your physical condition or how you're perceived by the world. It is based on His love and desire to have a relationship with you. However, He does not force anyone to be redeemed that doesn't want to be. Like recycling, you have the choice of what to do with your container.

Have you been used up or abused? Have you made bad choices that you regret? Do you want another chance to do things differently? The free gift of Redemption through faith in Jesus Christ is the only option that brings about lasting transformation. Making the choice to trust your life to God is something you do from the inside out. It is not merely something you say with your mouth. Empty yourself... admit the things you have done wrong and believe that God will help you overcome them. Give over your pride of self-sufficiency. Get into the recycling bin…Tell God you need and want Him to make you new again. Trust that the Redeemer knows what He is doing… realize that there is nothing you can do to be redeemed. Believe that only Jesus can do it for you.

When you give yourself over to the Redeemer not only does He take you to the recycling plant, He gives YOU the nickel. It is a deposit for the eternal life to come.

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)

Be blessed-
Jeanine Black

Clay in the Potters Hand

"And yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We all are formed by your hand." (Isaiah 64:8 NLT)

My brother-in-law is a potter. Seeing his finished pieces brings awe, especially knowing the process it takes to get there. Starting out with a glob of semi-firm clay he adds a little water to make it more pliable, as he spins the "wheel," he then applies pressure to the top of the glob with his fingers to start transforming the glob into a vessel. He continues to mold the vessel into its desired shape by applying pressure to sides. Often he uses tools to further enhance the vessel's usefulness like creating a curved edge to keep the contents of the finished bowl from spilling. Once the shape is to his liking he again adds water, little by little, to gently smooth the surface. The air-dried piece goes into a kiln to be cooked, making it stronger and able to be used for its intended purpose. It takes a skilled craftsman not only to shape a lump of clay into a useful object, but more importantly, to produce an item without air bubbles or cracks, which would cause it to break, rendering it unusable.

God is one such craftsman. The Bible refers to people as clay and God as the "potter", the One who makes us into something useful. Since humans are flawed and prone to breakage, we need a skilled hand to fix those flaws and strengthen us. When we submit our desire to create ourselves into what we deem as useful, and allow God to do the creating, we begin to become truly useful to God. He smoothes our rough exterior, releases the air bubbles of pride, finds the hidden cracks that make us vulnerable and shapes us to be what is suited for the task He has in mind. Sometimes God may use His powerful hands to apply pressure to certain areas of our lives that need reshaping. Other times He may use another tool to completely cut off some habit or sin that weakens our effectiveness. At the same time, His hands are gentle, able to apply new clay to fill in the areas He has removed. Always, though, He keeps His purpose in mind, doing only what is necessary to achieve it. "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT)

Are we content to be clay in God's hands, or do we resist being molded into something new, something different? Even though we may not like who we are, somehow it seems more comfortable to stay that way instead of embracing the change God desires for us. However, there is great joy in being reshaped by God!

A. Peace in knowing that you are in the hands of a skilled physician rather than relying on a "Do-Your-Own-Surgery-at-Home" kit.

B. Assurance that the results will always improve your ability to be all God intends for you to be.

C. Knowledge that the process will always be accompanied with the loving care and support of your Heavenly Father.

D. Thanksgiving that God loves you so much, sees your potential and wants you to become whole.

E. A closer relationship with God that brings real fulfillment to your life.

To truly make a difference in this world, we must first be changed.

Be blessed-

Jeanine Black

A Sabbath Days Walk

A Sabbath Days Walk

Then they returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day's walk from the city. (Acts 1:12 NIV)

A Sabbath days walk is approximately ¾ of a mile - (about 1,100 meters).

This verse made me think back and had me remembering when. There was a time before I knew Jesus when I was addicted to drugs. Do you know - I would walk miles to get those drugs? In fact, I would plan my whole day around it if I had to. During those days all my thinking was wrapped up in addictive behaviors. It was very self serving behavior. Praise God, I am healed and no longer need to behave in that way.

The questions that arose from remembering back were these. Do I willing walk the distance that God asks me to walk? When He says, “go” do I move willingly without even questioning it as I did when I was seeking drugs?

Sometimes God asks us to walk great distances both physically, emotionally and Spiritually. He wants us to grow in Him and go tell others. Some of us are called across the globe and others to our neighbors, friends and relatives.
My questions are – Am I going in the direction God is calling? Am I in self serving mode or God serving mode? Am I walking that Sabbath Days walk for the Lord?

Six Ways to Stay in Touch

Many of my favorite friends and relatives live very far away from me. They are all very precious, so staying in touch and letting them know they are loved, appreciated and valued is highly important. If you have long distant friendships you want to nurture, try using these tips to stay in touch and also please share your thoughts on how you reach out to your loved ones far away.

Send a card: I like to pick out special cards or sometimes even make a card and send them a word of encouragement through the mail.

Leave a Voice Mail: Very often, one of my friends come to mind and I she is unavailable but I go ahead and call anyways and leave her a message letting her know how precious she is to me.

Send an Email: I love to send out quick emails to people I love when I find they are on my heart and in my prayers. I like to include my signature (((HUGS))) – This is actually my personal favorite way of letting people know God has me praying for them.

Schedule Time for an Actual Call: Email back and forth until you find a time that is convienent for both of you. Just the emailing between you shows commitment to the friendship.

Always Be Trustworthy: Whatever way you choose to communicate, treat each communication with respect. Never share personal thoughts and prayer requests with others.

Share Photo’s: There are so many ways to do this – email, snail mail, video, face book, my space, etc. Pictures are a fantastic way to share our life with others.

Say I Love You: I do this as often as I can. In my opinion it can never be said enough.

Children Learn What They Live

Let me begin by sharing two lines from a poem written by Dorothy Law Nolte
If a child lives with encouragement. She learns confidence.
If a child lives with security. She learns to have faith.
The complete poem can be found here.

Recently my husband and I attended our teen age daughters cheerleading competition, which we have done every time her team has competed for the past four years. She is a flyer on the team. Meaning she is one of the girls they toss up or hold up into the air while she performs gymnastic type moves and then they catch her as she comes down. It’s not my cup of tea, give me a softball, a bat and a glove and I’m happy but this is the sport she chose, so we 100% support her.

This competition was a bit different because we had spent several hours the day before in the emergency room having her checked out after she had fallen out of a stunt and hit her head. Also two days prior it had happened as well. So within three days she had fallen twice from the same stunt. After a very long assessment of my daughters’ health and some lengthy discussion, the emergency room Doctor gave Taylor permission to cheer – just for the competition if she took the week off following. As loving parents we were nervous but we did not want to instill fear in her. She LOVES cheering, in fact during “cheer season” she eats, sleeps and breathes cheering.

We arrived at the gym about 15 minutes before the event began and she came over with her coach to explain to us that she had once again fallen during the same stunt however not on her head and that she still wanted to go on. My husband reluctantly gave the okay.

So the girls took their places and the music began. I was actually sweating and praying, sweating and praying as I watched each step they took, it was like slow motion. Up she went and perfectly preformed her Scorpion. Up she went again and perfectly performed her Basket Toss. Up again in to the Double Twist (this was the move they had been struggling with) and down she came in to the hands of her teammates and safely to the mat.

I looked at my husband with giant tears in my eyes and said, “I am so proud of her. That took so much courage and trust. I don’t think I could have done that” and he said, “Yes you would have. Where do you think she has learned to have courage like that? It’s from you Babe, She’s been watching you!
I praise God that I know I can do all things through Him – and that I have been a living witness to my daughter.

Take the Plunge 3: More swimming lessons

Do you like ice-cream? If you had never tasted it before and someone described it, you would get an idea of what it is like. It’s sweet, colorful, creamy, sometimes has chunks of chocolate in it, and is served on a waffle textured cone. Would that totally fulfill your curiosity about what ice-cream is like or would eating it yourself do a better job? Well, studying the bible is somewhat like that. Teachers and pastors teach you what the Word of God is all about and even how it applies to your life but really to savor and enjoy it fully is to taste it for yourself. Please don’t misunderstand me, I am not saying those Sunday school teachers and pastors are a second rate way to study the bible or that God doesn’t reveal truths to you as you listen, on the contrary they are an extremely integral part of our spiritual growth. What I am saying is that spending one-on-one time with God and letting Him teach you, makes your spiritual walk fuller and deeper. As I’ve talked about in the first two blogs, immersing yourself in the Word brings inner change and a closer relationship with God.

The two swimming lessons below are similar to yesterday’s however they use additional flotation devices to aid you.

Be in a bible study group. Join a group that studies the Word, not a feel good book, and uses a curriculum that includes homework. The homework is when you spend alone time with God and let Him teach and speak to you. My favorite bible study group of all time is Community Bible Study. I learned more in the five years I attended than I had up to that point. It combines all the facets I mentioned teacher, pastor, great curriculum and one-on-one time with God plus the bonus of support from other women. There are groups all over this country and internationally as well so check out their website under ministries/courses to find the locations near you. www.communitybiblestudy.org

Use a bible study book on your own. There are so many to choose from but they are not all equal. I suggest one that offers both questions about the scripture and its application to you. Topical studies are okay if they are rooted in and focused on scripture. If you don’t have a store nearby check out www.christianbook.com. Two of the ones I’ve used are a series by Cynthia Heald and also the Spirit Filled Life Bible Discovery Guides that focus on a specific book of the bible. Most any study from Navpress is good and I’ve heard the new video curriculum from "That the World May Know" series is great.

I hope I have encouraged you to go deeper in your study of the Bible so that you may find lasting refreshment, renewal and wisdom. And again, I welcome your comments.

Be blessed-
Jeanine Black

Take the Plunge 2: Swimming lessons

I love to read and study God’s Word! It’s exciting to see how the words written long ago apply to us today. I’ve learned so much about who God is, His character, His promises, His plans and His love for people. Understanding why God said or did certain things helps me completely trust Him with my life. Another reason I love to read and study the bible is its one of the ways God "speaks" to me. I do not hear His actual voice but as I read He reveals the meaning of a particular scripture and uses that to guide me through a situation, become aware of an area I need to work on or equip me for a future task. It’s so amazing! Today I want to share a "swimming lesson" I’ve used to immerse myself in the Word and experience inner change.

Journaling- This is my absolute favorite right now. Gather a bible and a notebook, choose a book of the bible to read, praise God in prayer and ask for wisdom then start reading. As you read stop and write any bible verse down that stands out to you and what stands out to you about it. As you’re thinking about that, God may show you a deeper meaning or how it relates to your own life so write that down too. This is the goal for the exercise so read until something stands out to you and continue to read to a logical stopping place to get a fuller context of the verse you've written down; follow up by writing any additional thoughts. Sometimes God floods my mind and heart with a lot and other times it’s less so don’t get caught up in that; many times a fuller understanding comes a few days later as I read further in that book. End your session with prayer. This process has deepened my relationship with God and taught me to hear His voice. Having a journal like this has also helped when I’ve gotten stuck and felt my life was not moving forward. Going back and reading what I wrote over a period of time revealed to me a thread of consistency where God had revealed an area in my life I needed to work on. When I saw the bigger picture I was able to identify that area and do something about it.

Try this and let me know how you like it or write and let me know the way you get into Gods’ Word and the inner changes you've had. Tomorrow I’ll share with you a few other swimming lessons.

"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right." (2 Timothy 3:16 NLT)

Be blessed-

Jeanine Black

February 1, 1991 ?

That’s my wedding date! Today my husband and I have been married for eighteen years!
Wow. He is the best. I love him more today than when we first married. We have laughed together and cried together and most importantly, we have prayed together, always. We share our hearts, our secrets, and our hopes – always in honesty. He is my gift from God.

Back twenty years ago or so when we met, I wasn’t looking for a relationship in fact, just the opposite. I had been hurt so badly by every man I had ever let close to my heart that I was just done done with them all. My son was six and the two of us were very happy. We had our own little place and we were both in school. He was in the first grade and I was a junior in college. I had gone back to school to get a degree and a good job so I would never have to depend on anyone (a guy) ever again. But then it happened – I met Darrin.

We both needed our hearts to be mended – we both were “on guard” but love prevailed. We were instant best friends and so were our children. I had the one and he came with two. A ready made family, God wove us all together – (along with our fourth child who we had together – much later) and we DO depend on one another but not in a negative sense. We matter to one another, deeply. In a way no words could ever express –

February 1, 2009 is a day for reflection – “I love you Darrin”

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)

Blessings-
Alane D Brown

Keeping it Real Day - A Miracle of Comfort

While creating this video many "lessons" and passages came to my mind. How about for you - Did it "say" anything to you? Do you see God's word in it? Please share your thoughts-
Blessings,
Alane D. Brown

Keeping it Real Day Four - My Miracle of Self Esteem

Self Esteem is something I have struggled with my whole life mostly because of early childhood abuse. I always felt like someone had stolen away a huge part of who I was meant to be. It’s taken me a very, very long time to come to terms with who I am and to know that I am whole and that I am lovable. It’s been a journey of deep self discovery – one I am grateful to have walked. One I will continue to walk because it’s my journey. It’s the road I am on and it makes me who I am…and I am very OKAY! Hope you enjoy this short video!

Keeping It Real - Staircases and Revolving Doors

Letting everyone know me a bit better.
Blessings-
Alane

Keeping it Real - You Have the Faith it Takes!

Blessings-
Alane Brown

Expect Your Expectations

It’s Up To You!
Do you know what your passion is? It's up to you to discover it. No one can discover it for you. You were created with it inside of your soul from the very beginning. Just think for a minute, what makes you truly happy?
Quiet your mind and realize your thoughts. What makes you smile on the inside. There is something that lights up your heart. There is something that you desire to accomplish and when you think about it, it stirs your very soul. You know it's for you to do and if you allow your mind to go deep enough, you even have a plan. You know the course of action you need to take. You have a passion, a purpose.
Doesn't it make sense to you that your passion, and your desire to accomplish it, would make you happy? There's something that will fulfill you, that will make you feel whole, and it's inside your heart. You are the only one who really knows what that is. So forget what everyone else is telling you. What are YOU telling you?
Some of us have been told that our dreams are unrealistic. Some have gone so far as to say that we are day dreamers. Some of the people that love us the most have crushed our spirits unknowingly. We have let their opinions about life and about us control our destiny. Well it's time we control our own destiny. Time we control our own lives. Today, decide that life will no longer control you but rather, you will control your own life.
It's time to stop thinking I can't, and know that you can. No one's going to do it for you. Seek your passion seek your dreams -- pray. Ask God for direction after all, he created you with a purpose in mind.
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5)

I Saw What I saw by Sara Groves

Heard this song today and it touched my soul. It is called I Saw What I saw and it's by Sara Graves Here is a link to see the video and hear the song. http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=b6f2cb00fa352ebc74b9
It's SO inspirational. (I have emailed her and invited her to join our BraveHeart Women Community! Here are the Lyrics:
I saw what I saw and I can’t forget it –
I heard what I heard and I can’t go back –
I know what I know and I can’t deny it-

Something along the road- Cut me to the soul-
Your pain has changed me… Your dreams inspire.
Your face a memory – Your hope a fire-
Your courage asks me –
What I am afraid of- And what I know of love.

We’ve done what we’ve done and we can’t erase it-
We are what we are and it’s more than enough.
We have what we have but it’s no substitution-
Something along the road- Cut me to the soul-
Your pain has changed me… Your dreams inspire.
Your face a memory – Your hope a fire-
Your courage asks me –
What I am afraid of- And what I know of love.

I say what I say with no hesitation-
I have what I have but I’m giving it up-
I do what I do with a deep conviction-

Something along the road- Cut me to the soul-
Your pain has changed me Your dreams inspire.
Your face a memory – Your hope a fire-
Your pain has changed me Your dreams inspire.
Your face a memory – Your hope a fire-
Your courage asks me – what I am afraid of-
Your courage asks me -What I am made of
Your courage asks me -What I am afraid of
And what I know of love
And what I know of God

Leave your thoughts after the video....
Blessings-
Alaned. bROWN

Hope and Faith -

It was last year, during January of 2008, that my illness crept back in and attempted to control my life! God has always been so good to me, always, however during this particular time in my life He just poured His love out and over me again and again. My husband and I had no idea what we were in for when we entered the hospital that day in early January,

I was to have a medical test. Well, it’s a little more than a test because it involved being there for a day and having a little mini camera go through my arteries looking for blockages. It’s not a big deal because I’ve had the procedure more times than I can remember. So I have become a bit of a pro at it – of all things! (Obviously by now you have figured I hadn’t been in the best health for some time prior to this event)

The Doctors and I understood before the test, that most likely we would find the reason for this new reoccurring pain, was a blockage of some kind, either in my arterial graft or near to it. The hope was they could clear it reasonably easy. However, that was not going to be the case. I would need a major surgery to clear away the scar tissue found inside the graft.

So, it wasn’t what we expected. That was alright with me because I totally believed and understood that it was not a surprise to God! He knew exactly what was going on with my health. As we discussed what next steps had to be taken – I knew exactly where to place my hope and faith… “And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” (Romans 5:5)

Knowing I was in the Lord’s hands the surgery was scheduled for the very next day.

A "Charmed" Life

Looking at my daughter’s charm bracelet, admiring each little charm, I pondered their significance. There were the typical ones representing vacations, activities and pastimes but also ones that marked the spiritual milestones in her life like the Noah’s Ark, Icthus (symbol for a Christian), and "believe". Looking at the charms reminded me how God has been directing her path since birth. When my daughter gave her testimony and was baptized at age 11 (Icthus) she told of the process God used to bring her to the point of asking Him into her life. When I remember her five years of volunteering at Vacation Bible School (Noah’s Ark) I see how God used it to help her find her passion to be an elementary school teacher. Remembering those things gives me renewed confidence to trust Him with every aspect of my life!

Repeatedly in the Old Testament the Israelites were reminded of the ways God had protected, provided for and blessed them. They were no different from you and me; when the going got tough, they wanted to do things their way. Remembering what God had done, renewed their faith in Him despite what their circumstances were telling them. "How amazing are the deeds of the Lord! All who delight in Him should ponder them." (Psalm 111:2- Read the whole chapter)

I urge you to reflect back on the things God has done in your life, how He has protected, provided for and blessed you? If your memory is anything like mine try one of these memory keepers: Keep scrap paper next to a container in your kitchen and every time God moves in your life write it down and put it in the jar OR get a small notebook and write it in there. Then when you need some assurance go back and take a look!

Okay, here’s a question for you . . . if you had a spiritual charm bracelet what would be on it? Write and tell me!

Be blessed,

Jeanine Black

Are You Going To Finish Strong?

There’s always been a feeling in my gut that said, Alane; you are here for a reason. Just keep going. Just keep seeking what it is that God has given you to do. Do the next thing and if you fail – do it again or make some adjustments and try again. Just don’t quit.

Have you ever had that feeling? Do you know you are here for a reason? That God has plans for you. The Bible says: “I Know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

I have to be honest, I have felt like quitting. I have been knocked down and not hurried back to my feet. I have sat in self pity and have even fallen into depression. And do you know what that makes me? It makes me human. Sure, looking back it’s easy to say that on several occasions I could have shown more hope, more strength, and more faith in the Lord but I didn’t and it’s done, in the past. What did happen was I gained. Yes, I gained hope, trust and faith in God. I gleaned the Wisdom God wished for me to understand.

My relationship with God grew deeper and that’s the most important thing and after that, the fact remains that I didn’t quit! No, I have always stood back up and that’s why when I saw this video http://www.maniacworld.com/are-you-going-to-finish-strong.html I knew it needed to be shared. It’s a reminder to all of us. We have everything we need to stand back up and finish strong! Go watch it. It’s two minutes long and worth every second!
Here is the link again: http://www.maniacworld.com/are-you-going-to-finish-strong.html
Blessings-
Alane D. Brown