Relative Inspirations!

What does God Say About Encouragement?

2012-02-10T09:03:00.000-06:00

Since asking myself this question 4 days ago, I have filled pages with verses and stories, but one man stands out. King Hezekiah.

Our country seems to love drama. The check out lines are filled with the hollywood stars' theatrics. I was wondering what we, as Christ's followers might do to bring about a little more drama or attention. Love the flash mobs. They are a positive use of drama.

King Hezekiah was not only an encourager, but he was an example of drama. As soon as I read this, I laughed. He sent out runners. They ran throughout the towns to deliver the message that if the Israelites would return to the Lord that He would return to them.

It said that some people laughed at the 'tennie runners' but others listened, humbled themselves and turned back to the Lord. The Lord healed the people. They had a huge party and it says, " King Hezekiah gave encouragement to all".

Send the runners today. Let the good message be proclaimed in all the world. I'm lacing up my tennies. How about you? Let's make some noise and get some attention. Time is short. Be the voice of encouragement. Be the bearer of encouragement.

What Encourages You?

2012-02-09T09:30:00.000-06:00

Encourage/encouragement: help, assistance, support, boost, cheer, comfort, confidence, fortitude, inspiration, hope, shot in the arm, backing.

What helps or supports me? What boosts and cheers me? What gives me confidence?

10. Seeing how much I've grown or how I much more calmly I am able to handle things because I've learned that even when I screw up, He's able to fix it. That encourages me.
9. It cheers me to see how my mother has changed too. That encourages me.
8. I've learned to "go with the flow". I've learned that I no longer have to stress about immediately sitting down when I get inspired with a song or poem. I can actually relax, knowing that the verses will come in their time. Like the Christmas song from 20 years ago that I had cast aside, but which He led me to resurrect this Christmas and rework the verses. Now it is done and I like it. Or the chorus I sang like 4 years ago which He, just recently, gave me the verses for. That boosts my confidence.
7. When I find myself questioned by well-meaning friends and family, it encourages me that my husband supports me and that we are in "unity". That gives me confidence!
6. My BFF! I've never had a friend like her! In spite of A.D.D., she manages to keep everything straight in her head about her own life yet still keeps everything straight about mine. Not only does she encourage me with my writing, but she supports me in prayer so real, I feel it like arms around me. That gives me comfort!
5. Going to church! There's nothing like hearing a timely word, or a prophecy given that is exactly like God talking faith into your circumstances. That gives me a shot in the arm.
4. I can't help but say this and I won't apologize BUT warmer weather and climate helps me and boosts my spirits and body in a tremendous way. I love the northwoods in the summer but the cold really gets to me. (And No! I can't put on enough clothes.) The warmth assists me and comforts me.
3. The simple things in life: A good cup of coffee, a good book, sitting in a cozy spot, waking up to see the sunrise, my hubby's touch. These things give me comfort.
2. Ok maybe this should be number one, but 'my relationship with the Father of all love', the ultimate lover of everything about me, who is my number one fan and I am His! I am His be-loved and He is mine! When I have a moment of panic or fear or anger, I just tell Him about it right away and He takes it. That gives me the aid or assistance, help and support I need.
1. Drum roll please. MUSIC! I walked by a house the other day and heard Julie Andrew's singing, "I simply remember my favorite things, and then I don't feel so bad".

Tis so Suweeet!

2012-02-08T10:33:00.000-06:00

Oh Lord, I bow before your throne.
Thank you for making me your very own.

Oh Lord, my Maker, my lover and friend,
You are the One in whom I depend.

Oh Lord, I surrender to your strong caring arm.
I know you shelter; I will come to no harm.

Oh Lord, it is so sweet to trust in you.
You care about everything. Yes, everything I do.

Oh Lord, how can I help but sing?
I rejoice in your peace and joy you bring.

Oh Lord, my Maker, lover and friend.
You are the One in whom I depend!

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

Su-weeet!

2012-02-07T11:00:00.000-06:00

This morning I am singing the song, 'Tis so Suweeet to Trust in Jesus'!

My friend helps her husband out by working their shop one day a week (it's open 7 days a week) so he can have a day off. She doesn't really enjoy the job, but she loves her husband and willingly pitches in so he can have a mental health day.

My husband had just made a statement that 'he doesn't get out much'. He's in the same boat with a shop open 7 days a week.

It hit me like a brick! It felt a lot like fear, abandonment and the lie of "I'm going to be benched here forever!" I immediately called out to the Lord and lifted these feelings to Him. He ministered strength and peace to my spirit that the only thing that is forever is Him and heaven.

This morning I was reading through the names for the Lord and came upon El-Roi: The strong one who sees! "Yes! You are the strong One who sees. You see, you know, you hear, you care and you take care of each one of us involved in this!"

Tis so su-weeet to trust in Him!

Encouragement Runners!

2012-02-06T11:00:00.000-06:00

I'm trying to upload pictures of my new tennies, but I'm sure you can picture a shiny new clean pair. Compare to the old shoes coming apart at the seams and cracked all the way across the bottom.

I've been on a 3 day roll here thinking, reading, breathing 'encouragement'.

What encourages you? What helps you, supports you, assists you, boosts and cheers you? What comforts you, builds your confidence or fortifies you? What inspires you?

I made a Top 10 list (sure I'll post it), but then I searched for; what does God say about encouragement? (Yes, post to follow.)

Taking it one step further, I looked for examples of people who were encouragers, like tennie runners, who support, fortify and assist in getting the job done. Are you a tennie runner? Stay tuned.

Faith and Tennis Shoes!

2012-02-05T16:08:00.000-06:00

I woke up with big smiles this morning, even though I missed the sunrise. I was excited to go to church, I was excited about little ways that I could see that God has been working in me, making me stronger in faith.

I realized that I don't fret about things that used to upset me or cause me to stress. I can trust Him to take care of my blunders and even cover my butt. I can even trust me with my decisions about clothes or shoes.

The walking shoes I had left at my here at my mothers were falling apart for no good reason. So much for Born! They were cracked all the way across the bottom on one shoe and both shoes were coming apart at the seams. I really do not feel they gave me enough wear for my money. So much for Born. Oh, did I say that?

I had gone shoe shopping last weekend after church and had found a pair of tennies that I thought would be good to support my walking. I should have bought them then. I even thought to myself, 'just buy them and be done with it'. But, there was a part of me that just couldn't resist the urge to find something cheaper. So, I put them on hold, and went to check at the other stores closer to home.

No bananas. They didn't have a pair I liked any better and they didn't have a better price. So, I had to call the store on Wednesday to tell them to save them again. I was told to call again on Saturday if I wanted them saved until Sunday. Yep. I forgot to call last night.

This morning, I woke up thanking the Father for watching over my tennies. I knew they'd be there for me.

They were not at the counter. They were not with the other shoes of their own size. But I knew they just had to be there. I looked in the childrens, I looked in the mens. I looked in the aisle they should have been in again! Then I looked through the other sizes. Bingo! They were two rows over with shoes that were two whole sizes bigger and way down on the bottom!

I knew it. I knew it. Oh thank you Jesus.

What do You do While You Wait?

2012-02-04T08:21:00.000-06:00

(Sue's Song)

1. What did Daniel do while he prayed? The angel was sent to give him this sweet word. "I have come to tell you. He's moved heaven and earth for you." so

chorus: Sing a song of praise while you wait. Sing a song of praise while you stand in faith. You know the answer went the moment that you prayed, tho' the answer be delayed.

2. What do you do while you wait? The answer is clear. You are His love so dear. There's nothing He won't do. He'll move heaven and earth for you!" So

3. How do we get this in our hearts? His love for us its clear is a flaming sword to fear. The power in His hand will move heaven and earth. We'll stand. And

4. My friend, listen up, listen good. Let your heart be assured, be encouraged and be strong. The answers on the way. Hear heaven's trumpet play. We'll shout. And

Sing a song of praise while we wait. Sing a song of praise while we stand in faith. We know the answer went the moment that we prayed. We will not be afraid, tho' the answer be delayed.

Copyright

Nellie Dee

What Really Matters?

2012-02-03T08:28:00.001-06:00

This question is heavy in my mind and heart today. I'm sure that it is on many hearts as we watch the news about trouble heating up in the middle east and how "all eyes are focused there" as predicted in the Bible.

I'm not sure it takes a rocket scientist to realize that we could be just months, if not weeks or days away from the "war" on Israel.

As I'm pondering things, I think, first and foremost: Be ready to meet thy Maker. Well, how does one prepare for such a thing? That's a huge unknown. Romans 14:10-11 tells us that we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ and that every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord!

1. I pray for forgiveness and mercy now.
2. I turn from seeking my own will or selfish ways now.
3. Since nothing else matters, except knowing Him now, I pray that He will give me opportunities to show His love, grace and mercy to a world that is used to receiving anger, hate and selfishness.

As I ponder really meeting Jesus face to face, I remember the song "will I dance before you, Jesus or to my knees will I fall?" One way or another, we will bow before Him. Let us do it now!

Experience Him with your Whole Being!

2012-02-02T09:45:00.000-06:00

There is nothing I can think of more pleasurable than soaking in the Father's presence: experiencing God with my whole being.

1. Soaking: Fully emerged (mind, heart and soul) like a bubble bath.
2. Breathing: Purposefully breathing Him in, like a smooth glass of wine.
3. Touching: Your Spirit's presence wrapping me in a fuzzy cozy blanket.
4. Exhaling: Like the power of the deepest sigh, removing all burdens and cares or sin.
5. Inhaling: Like enjoying His sweet perfume and His power to overcome.
6. Tasting: Like sampling a new recipe and discovering that you love it.
7. Sipping: When you take a sip of water and realize you were actually thirsty, so you drink
the whole glass.
8. Sensing: Participating with full body attention and every human sensory on alert!
9. Hearing: Listening in the quiet, revealing the world hum(s), so like the refrigerator reassuring, "everything
is in order and all is well".
10. Seeing: There is a sense of heart sight, a knowing you just touched the very heart of God.

2012-02-01T15:30:00.000-06:00

Time alone with you, Oh Lord
Time to be quiet before Thee.
No phones, no traffic and no alarms,
The stillness settles down upon me.

And I rejoice in your arms again.
I snuggle up and nestle right in.
The quiet settling like a blanket of fog.
My heart is bursting joyfully within.

In these quiet predawn hours
This place where I can touch you here.
I am yours and yours alone.
Your presence so near and so very dear.

Oh the power of Spirits connecting touch.
All my burdens slip away, abandoned there.
There are no words; no earthly expression.
He removes, releasing me from my load of care.

It's in this place where the time just flies.
And your powerful presence settles over my soul.
Nothing else matters, I'm just mesmerized.
Your healing cleansing and I emerge whole.

What is it that Makes Early Morning so Special?

2012-02-01T09:11:00.000-06:00

10. It's quiet. The quiet while the rest of the world is still sleeping is somehow in and of itself supernatural.
9.   It's always a miracle that I'm up early, so it feels like a special invitation and I'm delighted to spend time
        with you too.
8.   Because you woke me up, then I can expect you to have something special to show me or say to me.
7.   There are no possible distractions. I'm quiet and not inclined to get up and "do" anything else.
6.   No one else in the household will be getting up to stir the quiet, so the quiet is all mine!
5.   The pre-dawn darkness heavily surrounds like your presence. It's just there, in the air and in the room
        like a cozy blanket. He is "ever present" ever real.
4.   It's my time to really be alone with God. Focused on Him, it's a date! Like God saying, "Come Away
        with me!"
3.   Anticipation! This is like Christmas every morning. What I might unwrap and discover will bring more
        joy that even my most desired worldly possession.
2.   It's holy time. The sense is of holiness surrounds and I delight to receive this most treasured priceless
        time alone with my Father.

AND the number one reason: Did I mention that it is very special and just for me?

1.   Intimate/intimacy: This has to be the epitomy of intimacy: hearts touching, connecting, enjoying and
        soaking in another's essence. Breathing, sensing, inhaling, light fingers tickling, sipping, yes! The
        ultimate desire with my whole being.

I hope this encourages you to experience your quiet time with God at a whole new level of intimate!

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2012-01-31T10:08:00.001-06:00

Thank you very much.

I appreciate the prayers that were sent my way.

It was a process over 4 days actually.

I started on Friday and finished up yesterday. I felt the arm-wrenching "get in their and finish them up" yesterday morning. I still had those 2! (The 2 that I wasn't as pleased with.)

But, I obeyed and plopped myself down and was surprised at how they turned out.

I had to wait for a UPS delivery yesterday, otherwise, you would have heard my shouts of praise and some serious hallalujahs.

Work Weekend, a/k/a Lasting Labors

2012-01-28T09:00:00.000-06:00

In lieu of posting this weekend, I am going to focus on getting my music written down or rather transferring it from my journal pages onto the staff paper with appropriate notes.

If you read this post, I'd appreciate any prayers you'd like to send my way. I am excited about this, but there are a couple songs that need some work. I also need to see them through the Father's eyes. I will need to set aside my thoughts that they (the 2 that need work) are dumb.

When I emerge from this process, I hope to rejoice in a work that I can be pleased to share with others. I believe that my part is to prepare, thus I am doing just that. I'm taking the steps so that when the Lord opens those doors, I will be ready!

I will trust that my labors will not be in vain and that my reward is with the Lord. (Is. 49:3-4, Is. 65:23)

The Birds and Our Efforts

2012-01-27T10:00:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you but sometimes I wonder if I am working for nothing, in vain or if my efforts are useless. Sometimes I feel like it's just another day. Being the baby in my family, I am seldom listened to, therefore, I usually keep my opinions to myself. Even when I feel strongly enough about something to speak, I find that I am not taken seriously.

I didn't really realize this was an issue until I was on my walk yesterday. The birds are plentiful here and they are all so noisy. It amazes me. I was listening to all their calls; some twirp, some tweet, some caw and others call. Then this sweet little song bird started singing. His voice was so quiet compared to the loud and noisy birds, and yet I appreciated his song, for its sweetness.

I finished my walk and grabbed my journal. I was inspired by all those birds. Before I was done, I realized that the Father was talking to me! He ministered to my heart in this new and very special way.

Our labors, our writings, our creativity, our songs are not in vain. They are priceless in the Father's hand. Our purpose, our efforts, whatever they may be are a jewel in His crowning diadem.

This morning, when I was reading from Isaiah 49. Right away in the first 4 verses, I was so blessed. It was confirmed. I will trust Him for my labors and my rewards!

To read for yourself: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+49&version=NIV

I Need Help!

2012-01-26T09:20:00.000-06:00

Practical help. Like down to earth help here. Help to figure out how to live in harmony with my mother. I prayed this morning that I would be better able to fit into her schedule and yet still meet my own needs for writing. This is really nothing new for me. I had these same issues at home as well. How do we find balance between the practical life and the creative life?

It's been several days now since I printed some staff paper so that I could work on my music. It's stacked neatly on the keyboard as a reminder that I need to get back at it. I think that "sing while you have a song" is just as appropriate as "paint while you have a picture to paint".

As such, I have a tendency to ignore meal times or other structural pressures. When the creativity flows, I am compelled to write, even if it means ignoring the housework or working through lunch (or dinner).

I'd love to hear how other writers work in harmony with their loved ones and work schedules. In the meantime, I just keep singing: I Depend on You!

You are my everything.
You are the reason I sing.
You are all my righteousness,
therefore I depend on you!

And hope to soon have the verses to go with it. I started singing this while cleaning and baking last Saturday. I was amazed that I was able to still remember it!

Sermon Today....

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

To continue from yesterday's sermon from Malachi, I couldn't help but be amazed by how relevant this message is for today.

If the Lord is wondering where is His honor or where is His reverence, what does that mean for us today? We don't bring sacrifices like the Israelites did. But, do we honor Him with our first increase? Do we give Him His due or do we make Him an afterthought? Do we give Him a token $5.00 or $10.00 perhaps?
Here's the test according to Malachi: Don't offer to the Lord something you wouldn't offer to your Governor! What would you offer to the one person you respect the most? Would you not seek to give him the best present you could?

Mal 2:2 says, "take it to heart to give glory, honor and respect to the Lord". In fact, Malachi is a repeat of Deuteronomy's version of choosing life or death. When we dishonor God, our children are cursed and he goes on to say specifically that these are the results:

1. We defile God's holy institution of marraige.
2. Men are mistreating their wives (being unfaithful is acting treacherously).
3. We weary God by saying "everyone who does evil is good". Think about this. Do we not approve of those who are acting in ways that we know are displeasing to God? Good is not bad nor is bad good!
4. This is a tough one. We weary God by asking, "where is the God of Justice?"

All I can think is that we truly need forgiveness and help. Hooray for Malachi 3. God sends the messenger, the refining fire. He sends this refining fire to burn away all that displeases Him. Hooray. Purify your church. Let the message resound. Let us return to you with "all our hearts. Let us love you with all our tithes. Let us show some respect!

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Malachi+3&version=NIV

My Sermon....

2012-01-24T14:40:00.000-06:00

I have had a lot of things brewing in my head lately. It started several days ago with a sermon about tithing. I know we've all heard them, but this is very important. It's been on my mind and in my thoughts. I've read and re-read Malachi and just about everything else that relates to the subject.

It basically boils down to this: How we handle our finances displays or proves how we will handle spiritual things. God will try us to see if we will honor Him with our money before He will give us more (money or spiritual gifts). By bringing our first fruits to Him (or bringing our first check) to Him, we make an emphatic declaration of our trust in Him.

There are those who might believe that if we don't have enough income to pay our bills, that we don't have to tithe. I beg to differ. Remember the widow who had only enough flour and oil to make their last supper? Remember, she prepared her last supper and gave it to Elijah. See I Kings 17 or check it out on the link. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+17&version=KJV

I heard a disturbing statistic that only 3% of those professing to be God's children tithe. Seriously? 3%? I'm not sure if that's true or not, but I do know this. I have been informed that our church is hurting because people are not tithing. This is serious.

After reading and re-reading Malachi, I believe that this is a serious offense to God. Malichi says that "a son honors his father and a servant honors his master". The Word of the Lord says, "If I am your father, where is my honor? If I am your master, where is my reverence?" (Malachi 1:6)

II Chronicles 7:14 says, "If those who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear them! Malachi concurs by telling us that we seek God's blessings without respecting Him with our money. That means those who call themselves Christians.

I am going to be so bold as to say, I believe that in order for the church to move forward with what God has for us in "these last days", we need to repent and trust God with "all" our possessions. We need to repent of being stingy with HIS money and determine to respect Him by giving Him our first fruits.

A Little Update

2012-01-23T14:27:00.002-06:00

Re: Caretaking My Mother

I cannot believe how fast the days are flying by. My mother has her good days and her trying days. She tires easily regardless. The skin on her arms and legs is so thin. They look like battle zones. She has large streaks of purple and nickle size dark purple spots, some right on top of each other. The first time I saw them, it broke me up inside.

I am discovering that she has definitely forgotten much of her history. I'm so glad to be here to answer those questions that come up from time to time in order to help fill in the gaps.

Re: Sarah and Kaili
It has now officially passed the 6 month mark (Jan. 15th) since our "suicide". I am pleased about many things and yet concerned about many other things that are very serious. Sarah and Kaili are taking one day at a time, but this is a slow process. Kaili's world has been upside down for all her life, that she's not equipped to handle a "new" normal. She continues to be strong because she thinks she has to be strong. The counsellors at school have called in some additional counsellors because they are concerned about her anger. They are also pushing to put her on Ritalin.

Sarah has a very determined stalker who reminds her of her ex! I am concerned for both their safety. He has entered their home without permission. He has taken Kaili out of the home (again without Sarah's permission).

Re: Trusting God with All your heart: With All! (Everything)

This morning as I reached for my phone to messenger my friend to pray for them, I heard the still quiet voice asking me, "Are you going to trust me with everything? Even your grandaughter?" I loudly proclaim: "YES! I will trust you even with my grandaughter!" AMEN!

Trust in The Lord

2012-01-22T08:15:00.000-06:00

1. Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Lean not on your own understanding.
In all your ways, each and every day
Acknowledge Him in everything you do.

Chorus:
He shall direct your path
and He will make your pathway clear.
Your path will shine just delight in Him
and feed on His faithfulness.

2. Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Lean not on your own understanding.
Lean not on what you see or feel
But seek to see with Spir-its view.

Chorus

3. Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Lean not on your own understanding.
Do not be wise in your own eyes
But fear in Him and run from lies!

Chorus

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

Be Encouraged!

2012-01-21T15:00:00.000-06:00

Even in the midst of despair, Lamentations 3 gives us a whole list of encouragements. The author says, when I remember these things, they give me hope:

1. We have hope because through the Lord's mercies, we are not consumed.
2. We have hope because His mercies never fail. They never end.
3. We have hope because His mercies are a fresh start each morning. Each morning they are new.
4. We have hope because His faithfulness is great.
5. We have hope because the Lord is our portion. He is our inheritance.
6. We have hope because the Lord is good to those who wait for Him.
7. We have hope because the Lord is good to the soul who seeks for Him.
8. We have hope because the Lord is good to those who depend upon Him.
9. We have hope because no one is abandoned or cast off forever by the Lord.
10. We have hope because though He brings grief, He also shows great compassion (according to the greatness of His unfailing Love!)
11. We have hope because the Lord does hear (our prayers or cries for help).
12. We have hope because the Lord pleads our case.
13. We have hope because the Lord sees. He sees how we are wronged.
14. We have hope because the Lord hears. He hears the bullying of the enemy. He hears their taunts.
15. We have hope because we know the Lord will repay our enemies!

I am so tempted, I must confess, to make this a Top 10, but I wouldn't want to miss my opportunity to share an encouragement! So, I'll just add it to my list of Top 10s and rejoice that we have 15 hopes from Lamentations 3. If you find some more, please enlighten me! I'd love to hear them.
Have a wonderful "hope-full" day. God bless you.

2012-01-21T09:30:00.000-06:00

I've been waking just in time to catch the sunrise. It's pretty sweet. Makes me feel sooo loved.

Faithful like the sun!
Ever present briliant One,
Miraculous physical presence.
Visually Displaying Powerful Essence.
Strengthened Daily by your Word.
Spirits rendering: In one accord.
Truth proclaiming. Evil alluding.
Intently focued: Enemy subduing!
Submitting daily before your throne,
Resisting Evil, Defending your own.
Oh faithful ever present Son,
Joyful Comfort. Victory Won!

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

2012-01-20T16:00:00.000-06:00

I found myself lamenting over an opportunity that I missed to share a verse of encouragement with my son. I had found a version of one of his favorite Bibles verses and had thought about texting him twice, but didn't do it. It wasn't long before he called. He'd been broad-sided. Thankfully, he was ok and had been spared injury.

As I was bemoaning that I had miss such a sweet opportunity to share an encouraging moment with him, I asked God to never let me miss another opportunity again.

Soon I was singing a little melody from Lamentations 3:22 that I had put to music years ago, but it caused me to reach for my Bible and turn to Lamentations. I discovered that in the midst of despair, this little book gives a long list of encouragement and hope.

Lamentations is a book of 5 prayer poems which are actually funeral songs written with eye-witness accounting the destruction of Zion and the temple and bemoans the shame and ridicule from the enemy. (Still appropriate for today, so take heart Israel!)

Lamentations 3:22 It is your compassion! New for me today! It is your compassions that brightly rise upon me and give me hope. (My personalization.)

Some may say that God is not alive. Some may think that God does not see.
Or perhaps they think that He just doesn't care. Some may think Him cruel to watch our pain and suffering, but HE is not any of those things.

Lamentations tells us that God does hear our cries. He even pleads our case. Lamentations tells us that God sees how we are wronged. He tells us that the Lord hears their (the enemies) schemes and their tauntings. He tells us that the Lord will pursue them and destroy them. He tells us that the Lord will repay them!

Though He may bring grief, He also shows "great compassion" according to the multitude of His mercies or according to the greatness of HIS unfailing love! It does not depend upon us! Hooray!

Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan

2012-01-20T11:03:00.000-06:00

Thomas Nelson has provided me a free copy of this book in exchange for this review which I freely give.

I had preconceived ideas about what this book would be: I thought it would be little stories about how each hymn was inspired and that it wouldn't be a book that you would not actually sit and read from beginning to end. It was so much more!

This was an accounting of the history of hymns from the very beginning of their creation; hymns were God's idea. The author lays out how hymns have been used from the very beginning through their near death in the in the 6th century; their resurrection and rediscovery in the 1500's and the Reformation where thousands of hymns were written; to their use today as well as their purpose for our future.

The author tells how church folks owned their own personal hymnals and carried them to church along with their family Bibles. They were small enough to fit in pockets and were used at home as well as in church.

The author set out to create a deeper appreciation for hymns. He has more than accomplished this goal. He included some timeless and cherished hymns as well as some unknowns (to me) which I am determined to learn.

The book also challenges christians to be more open to a worship mix of both contemporary music and hymns. I highly recommend this book for everyone and especially for worship leaders.

Although I would love to say I'd pass this book along to others, I am selfishly going to keep this book for my own personal, dare I say, daily use? This book has not only instilled a deeper appreciation for the value of hymns, it has inspired me to continue to put verse to melody on behalf of my own family and children. And, who knows? Maybe someday, they will be writing about how God used my melodies!

http://www.booksneeze.com/reviews/blogger/28015?ref=badge">

2012-01-19T16:33:00.000-06:00

Christ loves me and gave Himself up for me.
Christ loves me and gave Himself up for me...
so that He might sanctify me,
He set me apart having cleansed me
by the washing of the water
with His word
that He might present me unto Himself in all glory
Yes. Unto Himself in all glor-ri-ious splendor:
without spot or wrinkle or any such things
that I might be ho-ly
that I may be fault-less before Him.

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

2012-01-19T09:15:00.000-06:00

The Kingdom of God is Righteousness.
The Kingdom of God is Righteousness.
The Kingdom of God is Righteousness,
peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

May the God of Hope fill you with all joy.
May the God of Hope fill you with all peace.
May the God of Hope fill you with all faith believing
that you may abound, that you may abound in the power of the Spirit!

Copyright.
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

2012-01-18T15:30:00.000-06:00

I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ
that He would grant me to be strengthened with might.
That Christ may dwell in my heart through faith
and that I may be grounded in love.

Oh to know the love of our Lord Jesus Christ
Oh to know the width, the length and the depth.
Oh to know the width, the length and the height.
Oh to be filled with the fullness of Him

Of Him who is Able. To Him who does exceedingly,
Abundantly above all I ask or think.
According to His great power within me
To Him be all glory,
To Him be all glory
To Him be all glory in the church.

I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ
that He would grant me to be strengthened with might.
That Christ may dwell in my heart through faith
and that I may be grounded in love.

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

2012-01-18T09:00:00.000-06:00

Thank you for our leaders
for all who are in authority
We seek your blessing upon them
that we may live in peace.

Thank you for our leaders
for all who are in authority
We seek your blessing upon them
that we may live in all godliness and reverence.

That all men might be saved
and come to know the truth.

Oh we thank you for our leaders
for all who are in authority.
We seek your blessing upon them
that we may live in peace.

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

Boasting in Weaknesses

2012-01-17T14:00:00.000-06:00

I found myself in II Corinthians 12 this morning, where God tells Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you. My strength is made perfect in weakness." (verse 9)

I love this in verse 10. We can take pleasure in our troubles, in whatever form they come (whether infirmities, reproaches, needs persecutions, distresses) for His sake. For when i am weak, then I AM strong."

Therefore this post is dedicated to my Top 10 weaknesses; my obstacles today, that my God, who has already prepared the answers; that God's strength and power will shine through all the more.

10. Isolation. I'm here all alone (with just my mother).
9. I do not know anyone here (except my mother).
8. I have no (prior) connections.
7. I do not know where to even begin.
6. I have little to less computer technical aptitude.
5. My music is written so crudely that no one else could even read it much less play it.
4. My funds are limited, i.e. no current cash flow, so I cannot just go print my own.
3. I have a very weak voice at best with a very limited range, so am not a singer (though I love to sing).
2. I have no prior publishing; no prior experience. (Maybe that's the same as number 8?)
1. I am limited to the small keyboard at my mother's house (which opens a whole nother can of worms).

AND I have discovered another part to my number 1:
While trying to write my songs today, my mother kept turning on her own music and/or singing! :D

And, thus I smile and boldly declare, "Oh yes. I will boast in my weaknesses. To God be the Glory!"

2012-01-17T09:58:00.000-06:00

This morning I woke up with singing. Every thing I wrote was in verses and tune. I wrote a page full of various words but ultimately came up with just a little chorus and maybe 1 verse so far.

For now, I will call it a little prayer song inspired from Exodus 33:13.

Father, i desire you.
Show me now your way.
That i may know you and that i
may find grace in your sight.

Now therefore i pray oh Lord
if i have found this grace in your sight,
Show me now your way!

Oh Lord, you are beautiful. Oh Lord, your grace.
My hearts only desire. I seek your face.
To find favor with you, i draw closer each day
That i may know you and be shown your way.

Father, i desire you.
Show me now your way.
That i may know you and that i
may find grace in your sight.

Now therefore i pray oh Lord
if i have found this grace in your sight,
Show me now your way.

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

Top 10 Caregiver Lessons....

2012-01-16T11:45:00.003-06:00

I've learned from caring for my elderly mother. She's soon to be 89.

10. Once a mother Always a mother! Even in old age, mothers still need to feel needed. Let her be "mothering".

9. Even if I'm having a bad hair day, at least I have hair! :-)

8. Wear your favorite sweater, no matter its age or condition.

7. Do your muscle strengthening exercises so you won't have to walk with a cane or wear a diaper.

6. Eat what you like. Even a meal is something to look forward to.

5. Paint while you have paint. Be creative while you can. My mother's easel has long been set aside. Her hand is not so steady nor are her eyes very good. The last paintings she managed were through burning and draining eyes which eye drops did little to soothe.

4. Bake cookies often; so you always have a ready supply to share with neighbors, delivery and service men.

3. Eat your oatmeal. It's good for your heart.

2. Pace yourself. Stop to rest and regroup at regular intervals.

And the number one lesson just happens to be my favorite:

1. Eat ice cream early! Before lunch even.

Joined in Prayer

2012-01-16T08:13:00.000-06:00

In answer to my praying friend's question about how my niece-in-law is doing, I am passing along her blog post about her circumstances. She tells her own story best.

http://freshpickedbyflynn.blogspot.com/2012/01/red-umbrella.html

2012-01-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

The 'Great Awakening" of days gone past
Their timeless melodies; forever they last.

For such revival, my spirit hungers with desire
I pray that we might awaken with heaven's holy fire.

My soul and spirit cry out for more.
I knock (in prayer) seeking to gain heaven's open door.

Oh that the power of God will fall
to remove the enemies power over all.

With the words of Joel, we cry out to the Lord
to defeat the enemy who comes bearing teeth and sword.

Blow the trumpet. Sound the alarm.
For the day of the Lord who will save us from harm.

Be aware: This day of the Lord is at hand.
Be ready. All people prepare. The Lord will save His land.

Oh church be united to sacredly assemble
Be dedicated to this holy purpose so humble.

On behalf of our brothers lost, we weep in prayer
for the Power of heaven and their souls to spare.

In our blood relationship and fellowship we boldly approach
And He will remove the sorrow of our reproach.

May the whole earth see it is the Lord who will restore.
He will drive our enemies into the sea once more!

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

2012-01-14T11:52:00.000-06:00

I received a book for review called "Then Sings My Soul - Book 3" by Robert J. Morgan. I've been enjoying the book and will be posting my review shortly.

I woke up this morning with a hymn (from the book) in my head: All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name!

So, I pause, with "all hail". To hail is to call loudly to, to call to so as to attract attention, a shout, the distance a shout can be heard.

Somehow, I don't see our forefathers shouting. My stoic forefathers barely tap their toes! But, I learned that this song was written in the mid-1700's during "the Great Awakening" in the American colonies. This is at the same time as the Wesleyan Revival in the British Isles.

So, I'm thinking this morning. We need an old-time great awakening. One that would span continents. Yes Lord, give us restoration of worship in our church!

At this moment, I notice the sun is just rising. I jump to look out the window and rejoice. It's funny how we anticipate a sunrise (or a sunset) and how we wait in hope and wonder. I'm always a bit disappointed because it's over with so quickly. It always looks to me like it's just simply falling (no matter which direction you are viewing).

This is truly so similar to our anticipating our Lord's return. So quickly will we rise "in all glorious splendor"!

So, I proceed to pray for awakening, for my children, for our church body, for our fellow-believers and for Israel.

Revive: to bring back to life or consciousness; to give new health etc. to; to bring back into use; to make effective or operative again; to renew in the mind or memory; to produce again; to assume new vigor!

Revival: The act of reviving, or the state of being revived; a recovery, as from depression; a restoration, as after neglect or obscurity; a renewal of interest in spiritual things; a series of evangelical meetings "to awaken faith".

So, I pray. I write and I pray: Oh Father, I'd like to think that when I write a prayer poem that it will be and is an effective prayer. In fact, let it hail. Let me attract some attention. Let it be affective! With real Holy Spirit effect.

All this started today because of a hymn. All hail. Yes. Let us give a shout. HALLALUJAH. Yea. That's what I'm talkin' about. Why not give a hearty shout for our wonderful Savior and for a heavenly purpose. Let's attract a little attention for the Lord. Amen.

2012-01-14T08:33:00.000-06:00

I Kings 18 is where you will find the accounting of Elijah and his willingness to challenge the people of his day.

It says: Now it came to pass. The Word of the Lord came to Elijah, saying, "Go. Present yourself to Ahab and I will send down rain on the earth."

Elijah goes and challenges the people. He boldly asks them, "How long will you falter between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him, but if Baal is, then follow him!"

Elijah thinks that he is the only prophet left who is the Lords, but he still procalims, "You call on your god and I will call on my God: the Name of the Lord; the Lord who answers by fire! He is God".

Elijah repaired the altar which hadn't been used. The stones will strewn around, but he picks them up and rebuilds the altar. There were 12 stones. One for each tribe of Israel. After laying his wood and preparing his alter, he tells them to fill 4 waterpots with water and pour it on the sacrifice, not once but 3 times. (Interesting. 4x3 is 12.)

Whatever off the wall thoughts you have, be encouraged. Follow them. Follow your heart. These days are days to "understand" what the will of the Lord is. (Ephesians 5:15-16)

And if you have done something that seemed off the wall, do not look back. Do not even look down, for the ground my seem unstable. Keep looking forward; looking for the will of the Lord. Be ready. Be available!

LET IT BE KNOWN TODAY. THERE IS A GOD IN ISRAEL!

2012-01-13T11:17:00.000-06:00

Yes. Truly these are days that we can expect "new" things. These are days where we need to abandon our own thoughts, or habits and ways. We need to seek a focused mind, focused on God's amazing power to heal and to save.

Focused on Him, we will be ready to receive a new thing, a new power, outside our human box or pattern. Set aside all earthly wisdom and be receptive to doing something a person might think is "off the wall" or "outside the box".

"Am I not the God who commanded Gideon to march around the walls of Jericho? Am I not the God who caused Elijah to wet down the altar before I threw down fire from heaven? Am I not this same God? Why do you say my power is not for today? Why do you speak as if you are God?"

Thus says the Lord, "Look ahead. Look forward. I am the same God who fed my people in the desert. I will feed my people today. Only look to me. I am the One who saves.

Be willing to wet down the altar. Be willing to march around the city. Be willing to maybe look a little foolish for me. Try me and see if I am not this same God. Try me and see if I don't rain down a blessing."

2012-01-13T08:30:00.000-06:00

I'm so glad to have you. You. Yah!
You fill my heart with praise. Hallalujah.
You make my pathway bright and clear
So, I will follow your lead; your plans so dear!

Show me your heart, your wisdom and insight.
You are all I desire; Yes, my day's highlight.
I got nuttin' if I don't have you.
I'd trade everything I own to be closer to you.

Fill me with your presence and power.
Give strength for today, in every hour.
If no detail is insignificant or too small,
Let me give everything my all.

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

How Do You Meditate?

2012-01-12T13:19:00.000-06:00

10. Brainstorm
9. Take a verse or phrase, speak it and pray it, and copy it. (I like to copy it into a 3x5 spiral notebook to carry with me.)
8. Look up all the words to discover every aspect of it's meaning.
7. Read it in several versions (i.e. The Message Version, The Amplified Version, Today's English Standard, The New King James Version, The Spirit Filled Bible and the Navigator's Bible. They are some of my favorites.)
6. Read all the available commentaries. (I like to use google as well.)
5. Think about the verse or passage for several hours, days even, until it becomes my new way of viewing life or circumstances.
4. Repeat it during the day and especially before going to bed.
3. Pray it and speak it in the middle of the night (should you happen to awake).
2. Delight in hearing (reading) any inspiration revealed associated with the verse(s).
1. Delight, taking extreme pleasure) and gratification KNOWING that His leading will bring success in whatever you may be doing, regardless of how insignificant it may seem!

Nothing is insignificant!

How Do You Meditate?

2012-01-12T13:18:00.000-06:00

Psalm 1 tells us that if we delight in the Lord and meditate on His word, we will be happy and blessed. It uses the word "law" which usually isn't a happy "feel-good" word. When I think of law, I think of rule, authority, police, litigation, to lay down the law...brings to mind fists and banging, paddling and force. But God never forces anyone. Though He is mighty, He is still gentle.

He utters His wishes, His instructions in such a gentle whisper, we may miss it if we are not focused on Him.

Delight and Meditate. Take great pleasure and joy to engage in continuous and contemplative thought; to consider thoughtfully and intently.

Psalm 1 tells us that if we do this, that whatever we do will prosper.

2012-01-11T09:08:00.002-06:00

Since I'm behind just a bit, I am going to revert to my new year and new circumstances as primary caregiver for my mother. One of the first things I did upon arrival was get to the local Walmart in order to purchase a new journal.

New Year. Fresh Pages. Warm weather. What's in store?
Looking forward. My Provider. Opening Provision's Door.
Funneling opportunities. Weaving goodness like a tapestry.
Creating beauty. Bring fruit. A splendid garden for me.

This life. In His hands. My Creator.
Everything I've dreamed. All I've hoped for.
My days. Unfolding by His Almighty hand.
Learning to trust. Resting in what He has divinely planned.

My dreams. My desires. Instilled before birth within.
Continue to appear. Amazing me. We are born to win.
No fear. No worries. No doubt.
Resting assured. He is working it all out.

Every little valley. Every mountain peak.
Reveals not an obstacle, but of His glory to speak.
As proven in science and only seen microscopically.
No detail too small, yet woven so intricately.

I stand at this threshold. Mouth gaping with wonderful surprise.
How my life is unfolding. I cannot help but surmise;
The dreams I'd abandoned; the hopes I'd set aside
Rising from that burial place. They are freaking alive!!!

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

2012-01-11T08:56:00.001-06:00

Just a little update. I'm trying to figure out how to coordinate "my" time and figure out how to work around my mother's schedule and issues, as well as working around the time constraints at the association's computer lab (their hours and 30 minute time limit).

I do feel like I have a lot to share and am really excited about my post subjects; some of which are regarding meditations, promises of waters in the wilderness, encouragement and where you go for counsel. So, hopefully, you will stay tuned for more and bear with me as I figure out a whole new schedule. I'm still praying about some type of computer or ipad that will be with me 24/7 so I would be able to blog at my own pace and in the comfort of my own living quarters. :-)

2012-01-10T08:10:00.000-06:00

Phil Donahue sent a very thick envelope with pages of drugs we shouldn't be taking:

Listing very common drugs.

Subscribe to the magazine and be safe!

Isn't it ironic that one of the drugs on the list is one that his beautiful bride endorses on television ads?

You know the one. Boniva!

Speaking of Preying on the Elderly

2012-01-09T15:34:00.000-06:00

This is just the junk mail from today!

Dear Ms. Elderly living all alone,

I wouldn't write to you, but this is urgent!

I wouldn't ask, but we really need money!

Dear Ms. Lonely Elderly Person,

Just send money.

Rush it to me.

I've enclosed a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope. I can't really afford to, but I've taken the chance because I desperately need your help.

I know you won't let me down.

So, please dear Ms. Elderly, there's not much time left. I urgently need to receive your help within 5 days.

I'm counting on you.

I know $60 is a lot of money, but it's a good investment in your future.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reply!

Dear Ms. Amy,

My Social Security is too important, vital and crucial for me to just write off. Here is my donation.

Just a little update....

2012-01-06T12:51:00.000-06:00

Today I learned that I am an official "caregiver" for my mother. As an official "caregiver", I received a permanent badge for her gated-community. It is my authorization to use the facilities and, thus, this computer.

I've spent the past couple days going through mounds of mail, as my mother no longer is able to handle the decision-making process required to sort through the mail. Since she lives in a huge retirement area, she is bombarded with junk mail on a daily basis. She seems to be on every list imaginable. In my world, there would be no more preying upon the elderly.

She no longer is able to remember very well. I have discovered that she was not taking one of her drugs and didn't even remember that she was on it. I am working to get that ironed out.

She is painfully thin and tires very easily. She gets out of breath with any little activity. But, she is chipper and is very thankful to have me with her.

I am thankful to be able to be with her. This morning as I was reading, I was reminded that Joseph was led to Egypt to be in a position to be the channel through which God took care of his family. I am thankful that I am a channel. I am thankful that I know HE is our Provider.

In Just One Month

2012-01-03T15:33:00.002-06:00

I've had more than a busy month. In the past month, we've had a move (from a 4-6 bedroom 3 bath home to a 1 bedroom 1 bath apartment), a miraculous acceptance of a short sale and closing, celebrated the Christmas and New Years Holidays (albeit, they were low-key and we did sleep rather than party on New Years Eve), we've gotten our taxes ready for the accountant, we finally got all our pictures, mirrors and hooks hung up on the walls, and now I'm packed and ready to fly out.

I'm going to be with my mother. She is 88 and has lost too much weight over the past couple months. She is no longer able to deal with her mail and has also been conned into a new water filtration system; she already had one. Although her doctor will not attest to her mental condition, he has informed me that her physical condition is something we need to be concerned about. Once I told mom that I had booked a flight, she admitted that she gets tired out just making herself something to eat in the microwave and she spends several hours napping every afternoon. She also admits that she is just skin and bones and will not wear a swim suit if we go to the beach.

I'm preparing myself for the worst (if one can possibly do that). I haven't seen her for almost 2 years and she was thin enough then.

It appears that this is the only picture I have of my mommy on this computer and this picture is approximately 10 years old. As you can see, she was a tiny woman then and she is heavier in this picture than she was when I saw her 21 months ago. I can only imagine.

I am praying about being able to keep blogging while I am gone. (I do not know how long I will be gone.) I would love to get an iPad. We'll see. I'll try to keep you posted.

Never Let You Go! by Erin Healy

2012-01-02T11:30:00.000-06:00

This was an exciting book which caused me to say, “I think I’ve found a new favorite author.” What I like the most about this book is that it is packed full of mystery and action from beginning to end.

The story is based upon a gal whose husband gets hooked on meth and, thus, abandons her with a little baby girl. Seven years later he returns. At the same time, a couple of his gangster buddies who are out for revenge show up making threats and demands. Their involvement gives the edge of danger which keeps the reader on edge. The plot climaxes with a kidnapping of the baby girl who is now 9 years old. Although the author subtly hints at what we might expect for an ending, it was still a surprise to me.

If you love excitement, mystery and a lot of action with an encouraging redemptive message, I would highly recommend reading this book and sharing it with others. I am going to buy a copy to pass on; not only to share a good read, but to share the message of hope we have in overcoming the dark world.

Encouragement!

2012-01-01T14:21:00.000-06:00

This morning while lying in bed I was thinking about encouragement and being an encourager. An encourager is one who inspires with hope, courage or confidence. An encourager gives words of support!
Jesus was an encourager. Every time He spoke to His followers, He was reinforcing His encouragement. "Don't worry. Don't be afraid. Everything's cool. I've got things under control." He constantly poured out support and encouragement. "Be strong. I love you. I forgive you. I am with you. You shine!"
I opened my Bible to Matthew 4:18-22 where Jesus calls forth His disciples or followers. They happen to be fishermen. They made their living as fisherman. How encouraging is that? Jesus meets them where they were at (fishing) and says, "Follow me; I will make you fishers of men." Fishers of (or as concerns for). Thus, I will make you fishers for men.
Personalize this: Follow me. I'll make you __________ (you fill in the blank, i.e. artists, authors, mothers, inventors, fathers). Whatever you are, He will take you as you are and make your life and your livelihood into something greater and beyond your imagination or dreams.
In fact, there is nothing impossible. You can do anything. Jesus said, "if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, nothing will be impossible for you." (Matthew 17:20) "With God all things are possible". (Matthew 19:26)
Remember the tower of Babel? People got together and decided to build a tower to heaven. "BUT THE LORD CAME DOWN" and said, "the people are united. Nothing they propose to do will be withheld from them." (Genesis 11)
Nothing is impossible. What dreams or desires do you dream? Are you with God? Then what's the problem? There is NO problem. All things are possible. Anything is possible.
Whatever storms or trials you may have encountered or are encountering, FEAR NOT! "The rains came, the winds blew and beat on your house, but it will not fall, for you are ON THE ROCK!" (Matthew 7:24-25)

My Christmas Shoes

2011-12-31T16:42:00.004-06:00

Thank you for my new shoes!

My mother had given me some birthday money (December of 2010). Yes. Over a year ago. This was the start of my desire for a pair of Merrell type shoe/boot. I searched the internet, but just couldn't bring myself to pay the price tag, especially without trying them on.

This fall, I discovered a store in our town of Hayward, Wisconsin carries Merrells. I went in and looked and thought there were several pairs that could work, but I wanted something with two colors (like black and brown) that didn't look like tennis shoes.

This year (2011), my mother called and said to be sure to buy myself a birthday present with her credit card. I went back into the little store in town, but I just didn't see a pair that said, "these are your shoes, buy me".

So I walked out figuring maybe I would need something else that I just didn't know about yet. All along I've been discussing this with the Lord and wondering if perhaps I wouldn't really be needing a pair since I will soon be going south to warmer climates to help my aging mother.

Imagine my surprise when I opened my present for our Christmas gift exchange. My new shoes are beautiful. They are exactly what I wanted (but could not find). Every time I put them on, I feel so blessed. He cares about even the littlest detail. My Father loves us so much that He showed my sister-in-law (without her knowing or asking me) exactly what I wanted and which pair I would love the most.

Prophetic Voice for Today!

2011-12-30T11:37:00.000-06:00

Haggai's second message was given after the people had started re-building the temple. His message of encouragement to the people so long ago still rings true for the people today.

The people were feeling discouraged that the Lord's temple was inferior to the grand temple that King Solomon had constructed. I wonder if they might also have felt a little shame. Maybe they wondered why they should even bother (to keep building) when it was nowhere near the beauty of their former temple. Surely there must have been some questioning, discussion, perhaps maybe a little murmuring.

His word cuts to the very heart of the matter. "Who saw this temple in its former glory? How do you see it now? Is this not in your eyes as nothing?" Maybe you are thinking these thoughts about your own circumstances or situation.

"Yet now", He says. "Be strong, be strong and be strong all you people of the land, for I AM with you. My Spirit remains among you. Do Not Fear! I will fill this temple with glory and the glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former. AND, in this place, I will give peace."

Peace. What is peace? It is peace with God. It is rest with God. It is a lack of struggling or striving. It is harmony, an agreement to end hostilities, a state of harmony and peace between people or governments. It is freedom from disturbing thoughts or emotions. It is clear and free of storms or unpleasant change. It is marked by utter calm and unruffled repose. It is not agitated or upset. It is quiet, relaxing and lounging.

We know that Israel is rebuilding their temple even now. We also know that "we" are the temple. (I Corinthians 6:19; Ephesians 2:19-22) We are His body. I say AMEN. Bring it on. Let your glory fill the temple.

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Haggai+2&version=KJV

O Come, Desire of Nations

2011-12-28T12:56:00.001-06:00

I'm on a roll here with "Desire of Nations". It would appear that there is a reference to the Desire of Nations in another beloved carol: Come, O Come Immanuel
The song is beautifully haunting and this has become a beautiful prayer which is so appropriate considering all the turmoil and animosity surrounding Israel.

O come, desire of nations bind
In one the hearts of all mankind
Bid every strife and quarrels cease
And fill the world with Heaven's peace

To listen and hear all the words: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vatvUREAPY0&feature=related

I encourage you to pray this song along with me and ask that Messiah bring peace to Jerusalem.

So What About The Desire of All Nations?

2011-12-27T11:56:00.000-06:00

My inquiring and inquisitive mind sought to find some wisdom or further explanation of what "The Desire of All Nations" means.

I will shake all nations, and they shall come to the *Desire of All Nations, and I will fill this temple with glory, says the Lord of Hosts. (Haggai 2:7)
*Or desire of all nations

*Desire = pointing directly to the Messiah
or
desire = "they shall come" refers to the most desired treasures that all nations will bring as gifts to adorn the temple to which the Messiah will one day come.

The Amplified says that the verb "shall come" is plural and refers to the most desired treasures that all nations will bring as gifts to adorn the temple to which the Messiah will one day have come. The Messianic reference is not questioned. BUT, the picture presented here is like that of the coming of the Magi to find the Babe in Bethlehem, the Desire of all of them; and when they found Him they fell down and worshiped Him, bringing their most desirable treasures of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

This just thrills me to the bone. What a sweet little nugget I discovered this morning. I hope this blesses you as much as it has blessed me.

Lessons for Today from Haggai

2011-12-27T11:34:00.000-06:00

While inquiring about the "Desire of All Nations", I turned to Haggai, who is the first prophet who arose after Israel's return from captivity in Babylon. His name means "festive". I'm sure it was a joyful and festive time for all Israel as their freedom was once again restored and they were returned to their homeland.

As the first prophet, Haggai's message focuses on covenant renewal, or basically, in a nutshell: Right Relationship with God.

His first prophetic message was fairly basic in that he condemns the people for seeking their own comfortable homes while neglecting the Lord's house.

1. Consider your ways. You are building your own homes, but My house is in ruins.

The people are stirred up to build and they are somewhat dismayed by the fact that the new temple is nothing compared to the one Solomon had built, so Haggai's second message is meant to comfort and reassure.

2. "I AM with you, says the Lord." "I AM with you, so My Spirit remains among you; do not fear!"

In fact, he foretells of "these days": "In a little while, I will shake heaven and earth. I will shake all nations, and they shall come to the Desire of All Nations, and I will fill this temple with glory, " says the Lord of hosts.....the Glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former. And in this place I will give peace," says the Lord of hosts.

The Prophet Haggai expounds on the shaking mentioned above. In fact he repeats the message and adds that "I will shake heaven and earth." The Message version describes the shaking as a process of turning everything upside down, overthrowing powers and governments thus throwing armies into confusion so that the enemies of Israel and those who oppose Israel (God's people) will end up killing one another.

Amidst the shaking and confusion in his world (and in ours), Haggai boldly proclaims:

3. From this day I will bless you. In that day, I will take you and make you like a signet ring, for I have chosen you," says the Lord of hosts.

A signet ring represents power, authority and honor.

In today's world ("these days") it is important to know our power, authority and honor given and bestowed upon us by Messiah. WE ARE HIS ARMS, LEGS and VOICE.

2011-12-26T17:59:00.000-06:00

I've been wanting to make a list of all the names of God for some time. This morning, although I didn't set out to do so, it finally happened.

Dear Jesus, Abba Father, Ancient of Days, Redeemer, Provider, Alpha & Omega, King of Kings, Wonderful, Counsellor, Immanuel...........how wonderful are your Names.

I googled. I found a website that produced quite a thorough listing. It's www.smilegodlovesyou.org. Click on The Names of God on the right side of their home page.

During the process of recording and highlighting the names in my Bible, I found a few that made me pause.

1. Desired of All Nations (Haggai 2:7)
2. Christ, the Power of God (I Cor. 1:24)
3. Shepherd & Overseer of Your Souls (I Peter 2:25)
4. Source (Author) (Hebrews 5:9) (I've referred to this in a previous post.)

The one that amazed me and gave the most pause was "Desired of All Nations". Oh what joy to know the Desired of all Nations.

Tonight while baking for my second Christmas with my children here in Wisconsin, I was listening to some Christmas Carols and what to my surprise, I heard, "Come, Desire of Nations, Come!" It's a line from the carol, "Hark the Harold Angels Sing".

I guess He wants me to know that HE IS "the Desire of All Nations". I know He is "all my desire" above all else.

Technical Difficulties

2011-12-24T12:23:00.002-06:00

I have tried for hours, literally, to record and upload via my hand-held camera as well as with the camera on my computer. I have been unsuccessful.

I was moved to try to share my little song from yesterday as well as my Christmas song:
http://profitableprose.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-12-19T13:12:00-06:00&max-results=5
(I thought it might make a nice Christmas present to share the melody with you.)

In an effort to assuage my distress over this, I penned a little ditty. This has nothing to do with Christmas, but it made me feel better, so I will share it here.

Electronics malfunctioning; things just aren't jellin'.
From cameras, computers, FB et al; seems they're all mocking cohorts.
I can't quite figure; am I that inept? Just a melon?

Hubby says, "ya gotta be smarter"
"can't let the electronics beat you"!
But it seems I am always working harder;
the simplest things take me longer to do!

Would that I could find an Electronics for Dummies class
I'd rush. The first in line to sign up.
I need to be shown, in order to pass.
A "hands-on" learner, I'd win the trophy cup!

There! I feel better already.
You've shown me how to laugh at myself.
To put words to rhyme is exhilarating. It's heady.
It's therapeutic, rewarding & renewing to my health.

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND TO ALL! AND PEACE AMONG MEN WITH WHOM HE IS WELL-PLEASED!

Draw Me Away!

2011-12-23T16:21:00.000-06:00

"Closer, closer, closer to Thee.
When I seek, it shows my desperate need.
When I ask, it proves that I believe.
Thus, I rejoice, opening doors to receive."

"I drew them with gentle cords, with bands of love. I taught them, I healed them, I stooped and fed them. I taught them to walk, taking them by the arms, But they did not know that I healed them." (Hosea 11:3-4)

Then I said to them, "Do not be terrified or afraid of them. The Lord your God goes before you. He will fight for you, according to all that He did for you in Egypt before your eyes and in the wilderness where you saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a man carries his son, in all the way that you went until you came to this place......The Lord your God went in the way before you to search out a place for you......to show you the way you should go........" (from Deut. 1:29-32)

For the Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hand. He knows your trudging through this great wilderness.......the Lord your God has been with you; you have lacked nothing." (from Deut. 2:7)

"Draw me nearer, nearer to Thee...Draw me away!" (from Song of Solomon 1:4)

Then I (Nellie) said, "The Lord repay your work and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel under whose wings you have come for refuge."

""Closer, closer, closer to Thee.
When I seek, it shows my desperate need.
When I ask, it proves that I believe.
Thus, I rejoice, opening doors to receive."

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

Martha Mary Moment

2011-12-22T19:12:00.001-06:00

Today I experienced the "Martha/Mary". In fact, this morning, I prayed that my heart might be an inviting place of comfort. I asked God to "make me available".
But, how do you balance things in your life? Like "people v. stuff to do"? How do I know when "to do" and when to sit"?
LISTEN.
Listen? Oh dear.
Make me a better listener. Make me humble enough to sit and to obey. To sit and listen is "better" because Mary got ministered to and she got filled up. Her soul and spirit were refreshed and revived. What an amazing opportunity: She sat at Jesus' feet; loving on Him and absorbing His every spoken word.
Luke 10:39 says, "Mary "sat and heard". Martha was distracted (with much serving).

Distraction = much serving = worried & troubled about many things.

One thing and only one thing really matters: To stay in His presence.

Oh the words of Jesus: words of truth, words of peace.
Such comforting words that all worries & fears release.
Oh, I could bask in this intimate splendor forever.
That I love Him, is it any wonder?

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

2011-12-21T11:45:00.000-06:00

Our friends and family are links on our tree, each one a precious light, a very important piece and part of our circle of love. We appreciate each one. We love to spend time with each one and pray they are blessed to find peace, joy and happiness!

Although we have abandoned the whole Christmas card mailing thing a couple years ago, I still enjoy receiving cards and am blessed by those who are able to keep us on their mailing list. I enjoy them even more knowing that they still send them to us and haven't crossed our names off their list just because we haven't returned a card.

(Maybe with our new symplified life-style, I will once again send cards?)

Today We Celebrate...

2011-12-20T19:59:00.001-06:00

It's official. We had our closing today. We are celebrating. I bought a red wine, I stopped and bought a couple seasoned rib-eyes from The Butcher Shop. We made special cheesy potatoes.

We celebrate, like those who celebrate Chanukah, because we've had our own 8 day oil miracle:

We had run out of LP last week. We jimmy-rigged a 100 pound LP tank up to keep the house warm enough so it wouldn't freeze. The LP Company we used came to pick up the empty tank today. The Buyer's LP Company came and delivered their new tank, however, their LP will not be delivered until tomorrow. There is enough LP in our 100 pound tank left to make it until tomorrow. WE FREEKING REJOICE! When I counted back the days this morning from the time we heard that Freddie Mac had accepted the short sale to closing today, it was exactly 8 days. I cannot totally attest to which day we hooked up the 100 pound tank, but we know it was mid-week too. It might be 8 days.

Happy Celebration. Happy Chanukah!*

*Chanukah is celebrated as the Feast of Dedication to remember God's faithfulness in delivering them from their oppressors and memorializing the one-day supply of oil which burned for 8 days.

Touching that we have experienced our own miraculous Chanukah deliverance here.

Psalm 84

2011-12-19T13:12:00.002-06:00

I was thinking about Immanuel "God with us" and how God desires to have a relationship with us. Psalm 84 says that "one day" with God is better than a thousand days elsewhere. One day in God's house is more joyful than anything on earth. I love it that His house is a place of joy and rejoicing. I find it truly amazing that God would want to hear what I have to say. I find it amazing that He even enjoys it when I talk. :-)

We are hard-wired to desire having a relationship with Him as well. There is this hollow emptiness that can only be filled by Him. I love verse 2, "my soul longs for fellowship with Him. I come, thirsty. My heart desires Him and I want only Him". Nothing in this world compares to Him and being with Him.

I pray that God would fill me, that He would fill our home and that He would fill our church (His body). I prayed that each and everyone of us who loves Him would shine as we are meant to shine and that the "enemy" would fear God's people. I prayed that He would restore power, worship, sanctuary and tabernacle (like in Ancient Days)!

I pray that God's people will be led in all power and triumph, diffusing (demonstrating, displaying, revealing and expressing) the very fragrance of Christ to all the ends of the earth: that the whole world will know and see that He alone is worthy, that He alone is the most high God worthy of all praise and honor!

What to Do ...in the Middle of the Night...

2011-12-18T19:34:00.000-06:00

I've been awake since around 3:00 a.m.

I was led through thought process to read Ecclesiasties because of an email I received. (I was looking for a verse about our death being more significant than our birth in reference to the Messiah.)

The Messiah, Light of the Word, Bread of Life, Lain in a Manger (where animals are fed).....I think about a song I wrote like in 1983....and look for it.

This morning between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., I keep the chorus and rewrite the verses. It becomes what I now am excited to present:

1. Shepherds watched and angels sang, the wise men came to pray
the night that Jesus Christ was born for God had planned it that way.
Chorus: They sang, "Glory to God in the Highest and peace among men with whom He is pleased. They sang, "Glory to God in the Highest and peace among men with whom He is pleased."
2. Humble was our dear Lord's birth, a manger for His bed: born in Bethlehem, the Bread of Life laid where the hungry are fed.
Chorus: They sang, "Glory to God in the Highest and peace among men with whom He is pleased. They sang, "Glory to God in the Highest and peace among men with whom He is pleased."
3. Hungry hearts and thirsty souls, He will not turn away, He satisfies the emptiness, so, Come! Be fil-led to-day!
Chorus: We sing, "Glory to God in the Highest and peace among men with whom He is pleased. We sing, "Glory to God in the Highest and peace among men with whom He is pleased.
Singing, "Glo-or-ry, glo-or-ry, glor-or-ry, gl-or-or-ry." Singing, "glo-or-ry, glo-or-ry, glor-or-ry, gl-or-or-ry!

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved
12/18/11

My Heart is Overflowing!

2011-12-18T19:09:00.002-06:00

This morning as I was pondering the fact that we celebrate Messiah's birth during the 1st cold month of winter, even though shepherds would never have been in the fields now because of the cold, it seems appropriate to me, because it is Hanukkah (the Festival of Lights) (a Festival of High Holy Days*).

(Actually, it was the Catholic Church that picked the date to celebrate His birth.)

During this season, there are many who are missing loved ones. There are many who are hurting. They are missing the "light" of their loved one. There are those who are down and those who are out, those who are lonely and those who are in pain.

As I gaze upon our little Christmas tree, I think about the little string of lights. (It is just a miniature representing larger trees of days gone past, where space allowed.) I think that each one of us represents a light. Each one of us is essential. Each one must shine for the whole string to remain lit.

Let your light shine for Him. Let others see the real you. Be who you are created to be.

Thank your Creator for all the good in your life. And then, pay the blessing forward.

Never assume anything and never take anything for granted. Give like this is your last day on earth.

* I love to say Merry Christmas to keep tradition. Those who prefer to say Happy Holidays are still saying the same thing, because it means Happy Holy Days. Ha. :-)

The Cupboard Doors Have Burst!

2011-12-17T18:03:00.000-06:00

My heart is so full today, I can hardly contain myself. I am surrounded by wonderful family and friends. I feel like a little kid standing before the Christmas tree filled with wonder; filled with delight.

My husband and I are amazed to see how many things that have all of a sudden just happened over the past week, seemingly out of the blue.

10. We have received some extra cash to help us out during this season, which came the day before the electric was scheduled to be disconnected.
9. We received a call from the phone company to actually reduce our phone bill by about $30/month. (We have been paying that for a long distance service which we do not use.)
8. The UPS guy stopped to make a delivery. My husband asked if he could take a couple boxes with our Dish Network returnables. He did, which saved us like $15-20.00 in mailing charges.
7. I received a Christmas bonus. Yippee Skippy. We get to go shopping for presents!
6. Things seem to be popping at the shop: We have suddenly sold items that have been sitting there for 3 years and we've had people come in to place special orders.
5. I've checked our final bills for a couple utilities online and discovered we have a zero balance.
4. We have received generous gifts of food to fill our freezer.
3. I have received encouraging words from our children that they, too, are feeling closer to and blessed by the Lord.
2. I received another "follower" on my blog this week. :-) I am especially blessed because she is my daughter. But, I count that as a priceless gift.

Oh, one more thing and I'd have a top 10 and you know how much I love a top 10 list.

1. Ha. and...the number 1 amazing thing that happened this week, is that because I shared about my vision on my blog (See post from December 12, 2011), I found out that it was very helpful to others and it even got re-posted by my Pastor.

Oh the joy that floods my soul........

How Does God Speak to Us?

2011-12-16T14:07:00.000-06:00

Let me count the ways:

10. Through Music. Sometimes a line of a song will come to me and it will be just what I need to hear, proclaim or confess.
9.   Through visions or impressions. Typically these seem to be for prayer and in order to pray about something specific.
8.   Through the Word. A verse or passage will come to mind, or by reading several different passages, a specific point or message will come through.
7.   Through prayer. Sometimes while praying, I will suddenly just know something or say something.
6.   Through a person (friend, or even a stranger). He will use someone else to speak for Him and/or confirm a message.
5.   Through my husband (or authority figure). Whether it is a word or an action, God will use him to reinforce His Love (or direction) for me.
4.   Through the internet. Yes, even through the internet. Sometimes I will come across a site with a message or a fellow-blogger will post a message that has a very timely or relevant teaching, answer or idea.
3. Through nature. This really needs no explanation but when I look at creation, I am able to gain a very dim grasp of the magnitude of His power and glory.
2.   Through feelings. Sometimes it's a feeling of peace or "this just feels right", thus it's a "knowing". There is no other explanation. It's just a feeling. When we chose our apartment, we felt this was the place for us. When given a mental choice, we rejected the 1st apartment even though it was bigger.
1.   Through silence.  (This is one I heard Him very clearly add.) Typically, I've been uncomfortable with silence but it's growing on me. Or rather, I've grown into the comfort of silence in our relationship. I often sit quietly just absorbing His essence and presence.

Perhaps you have something to add. I'd love to hear it.

I Appeared to You for This Reason:

2011-12-15T17:39:00.001-06:00

Paul’s conversion experience was very dramatic. Not many people have such a dramatic conversation. I have prayed for certain people to have a Damascus Road experience. Today, while reading Acts 26:12-18, I was impressed by the reason that Paul saw a light from heaven and heard a voice saying:

“I have appeared to you for this reason: to make you a minister and a witness of the things you have seen and of things which I will yet reveal to you!”

Acts 22:15 says, “For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard”.

Yes! I am so excited to tell everyone, tell everyone what God has done for us!

2011-12-15T14:57:00.001-06:00

Today my friend asked me how I decide what to read and study each day. Here is what I told her.

It has become a completely Spirit led thing. Sometimes I hear a distinct book and chapter, i.e. Psalm 94. Other times, I am led to a particular verse or passage through thought process which leads me to other verses and passages referenced. I follow whatever impresses me (or jumps out at me).

Today, for instance, I was looking at my calendar and thinking about my schedule and the next thing I know, I was hearing, "How can you plan when you have no idea what a day might bring?" I said, "Yes. You are so right." Here I was looking at my calendar, trying to plan out the rest of this month, when there is no way to really know what any given day will bring. Now this is no real revelation and yet, how often do we truly seek to plan our own coarse and fill our own days as if they are really ours to fill.

This led me to repent and ask the Father to forgive me for hoarding my days; for seeking to "own" my days. Then I confessed, "This day belongs to you. This is the Lord's day. I rejoice in Your Day."

I was led to look for that verse and I landed in Ps. 90, Ps. 84, Ps. 118, I Pet. 2:9, Acts 26:12-18, Acts 22:15 and then back to Psalm 90. I then went to write the passage from Psalm 90 in my spiral prayer verse book and found II Cor. 2:14:

Thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place! (What a great verse to acknowledge our recent victory and upcoming short sale closing!)

P.S. I have read my Bible all my life and I have read it through from beginning to end numerous times. To anyone who is not so familiar, it is always recommended to read it in order. And, to anyone wanting to start reading, one of the first books recommended by many is the book of John.

2011-12-14T12:49:00.000-06:00

Have I mentioned how excited I am?

We are able to close as soon as possible because we are already out of the house and already into our apartment.

This is just another example of how He has worked out every detail.

I just can't help but rejoice. Yes. I am still so excited to see how HE has helped us. Makes me feel so loved. Hallalujahaha!

2011-12-13T15:55:00.000-06:00

I have so much to share today, but we have received confirmation of our miracle this morning so now I know it's time to share the good news.

We received an offer on our house just before Thanksgiving. It was $81,000 less than we owe on the house. Our bank submitted it to Freddie Mac for their approval the week before Thanksgiving.

When we received this offer, we were amazed. It was way too good to be true, therefore, we knew this had to be God. This had to be a miracle.

1. It was a cash offer with no contingencies.
2. The buyers have the first right of refusal when we should ever decide to sell the adjoining lot with our shop on it. (That means they have the right to make the first offer.)
3. The buyers are allowing us the privilege of continuing to use the adjoining well for as long as we own the adjoining lot. This means we will have water for our shop and we will not need to drill a well.

We knew this had to be God, but today we have the documentation in writing: The short sale request has been approved!

Yeeeehaahahaha!!!!!!!
Hallaluhahaha!!!!!

2011-12-12T13:40:00.001-06:00

I had a vision of cupboard doors and then the rest came in impressions and sentences:

The cupboard doors are bulging (with abundance and blessings). They are about to spring open because they cannot be contained much longer. It is HE who holds the doors. His time is perfect. He will release them when it is time and they will pour out like when a dam bursts and all the water gushes. They will come all at once. He has great plans - plans which cause us to rejoice. Plans for a "great" future. AND because of that we will say, "There is joy in the house of the Lord".
It just seems so obvious that we will be joyful because of what He does. We won't be able to do anything except rejoice. It will overflow from us, just like a dam bursting. It will gush forth.

I was going to post this on Friday and looked all over for a picture to post with it. I pondered the timing. I received this vision while I was praying for my friend. Over this weekend, as I pondered this word, I started asking if I might even claim it for myself. Somewhere through the days, I felt very strongly that it might even be a word of encouragement for others as well and then I felt like it might even be a word for the church. I even wrote in my journal: Thank you that the cupboards are going to burst open for _________. I am so glad to be a part of that. Hooray!

This morning on my way to work, I felt like it was ok to share this word today. I pray that it will be a word of encouragement and hope. We will see His Light shine! AMEN!

2011-12-09T15:03:00.000-06:00

As part of my job at the law office, I go through the court calendar for following week to make sure we do not miss any court dates. As I was doing so today, I came across the name of someone whom I had met several years ago during the time that I sold real estate. He had wanted to go out with me then but, I was not interested.

I pulled up his name on the Wisconsin Court System that we refer to as C-CAP.
http://wcca.wicourts.gov/simpleCaseSearch.xsl;jsessionid=692A39DA5EA5FD7CC191220B601C79B7.render6

I was surprised to see so many entries.

I mentally run through the list of people I've been in contact with and who I've known over the years and realize that there are quite a few on that list and I have to say, "Phew!Thank God, you spared me from another one!"

It makes me feel all warm and protected.

He will truly protect us from all evil, from the evil one and from hidden traps.

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+91&version=NIV

KNOW that HE who cares for you watches over you!

C Words

2011-12-08T11:35:00.000-06:00

I apologize for being a little slow in delivering photos. A day or two of down time would sure help to get things together. I still have a lot of "organizing" to do. Yes. That is the complete length of our counter-top. It is a "challenge" to work within that one spot. I think we will be utilizing the kitchen table whenever we need some counter space. Either that, or we will be changing the way we create in the kitchen.

We were blessed to be able to bring the cabinet in the hallway there for an extra storage pantry. It serves both the kitchen and the bathroom. I saved my crates too, which fit in perfectly.

We discovered through this process that our big screen there is not actually a television. Who'd have thought? It's actually a monitor. Seriously. Have you ever heard of such a thing? We thought we had purchased a television. This is another "challenge" opportunity for us to learn "techy" things.

We rejoiced in our victory of the challenge of getting the piano in and configuring the furniture in such a way that not only does it work, but it is quite comfortable. Cozy is definitely the word we use here. There are paths through our apartment. We've both had our "claustrophobic" moments, but we are so thankful, "it's bigger than a camper". Hooray.

Laundromat Challenge!

2011-12-06T22:49:00.001-06:00

This word keeps coming up over the past week: Challenge or challenging.
What challenges us? What is a challenge? What is a challenge for me may seem like second nature for someone else.
What challenges you?

As I sat in the laundromat this afternoon, I wrote in my journal. I wrote about the fact that this was the first time in my nearly 56 years that I was "challenged" by the new experience of doing laundry at the local laundromat.

I brought my "he" detergent and dryer sheets and as I was reading washer instructions, realized that not only was there was no info about "he" detergent, there was no receptacle for measuring detergent into the machine. Instead, I'm suppose to just pour in my detergent on the bottom, then add my clothing.

These washing machines are very small. In fact a single load becomes 2 loads at the laundromat. The price tag for each load is $2.25. I notice there are "commercial" machines which are $5.00 per load. Hmmm. Do I combine my loads (totaling $4.50) in opt for the $5.00 load? Are these machines more efficient? Do they take "he" soap? With further inspection, I note that the soap receptacle is actually on top of the machine which is above my reach. Seriously? Above my reach? Yes. It's on top of the machine.

I had a moment of panic wondering if I had enough money to finish my laundry.

I find the same challenge with the dryers. I'm thinking they are similar to the washing machines which show the total price. However, with each quarter, the price (which is actually the time) increases and I wonder. Holy cow. Does it really cost this much? It turns out: It's .25 cents for every 6 minutes. Even at the hottest heat, a single load will take 40 minutes meaning $1.75 per load just to dry.

Holy cow. No wonder the poor never get caught up. The math is terrifying. Note to self: add to budget: $50.00/month for laundry (not counting detergent and/or softener).

While I was waiting for my clothes to dry and pumping in more quarters, I welcomed another laundry customer. She came in with 4 baskets and a cute young-un. I watch as she proceeds to fill her clothing into the $5.00 commercial machines. Her little helper hops up to assist like a pro.

I smile as I notice that she is up on tippy toes while adding her laundry detergent to the top of the machine.

Then I smile again while I see that she is digging through the bottom of her purse and laying out her coins on the counter to count them out to see if she has enough to finish her laundry.

Who'd have thought that laundry could be thought of as a "challenge"?

Super Excited!

2011-12-05T13:01:00.000-06:00

And, I'm still super excited because everything fits in the apartment and it truly worked out so beautifully with even a little "fung" (as in shui) going on.

There were many times when I felt challenged during our moving and organizing, but I just kept asking the Father for help. It was so amazing to see how it all panned out.

Oh, did I mention that I was excited about it?

This morning during my very first quiet time in our new apartment, I felt like a little kid, trying so hard to sit still and listen, but my eyes kept darting around with joyful pleasure.

As I read Psalm 98 and 96, they both talk about praise and how every creature and creation rejoices in their own way. I can't help but think that my delight in and of itself was a song of praise and rejoicing before the Lord. And... won't it just be amazing to hear the whole earth in symphony? Let the whole world shout with joy!

Did I mention how excited I am? Hallaluhaha!

The Piano is IN!

2011-12-04T19:35:00.000-06:00

OH Hallaluhaha!

2011-12-03T01:24:00.001-06:00

Moving is a lot of work. (Duh. BOO!)
OK, so maybe it doesn't take a rocket scientist to make a statement like that, but I am tired, my back hurts and I feel like I still have days or weeks worth of work to do.
The bed is in. We are sleeping in our apartment tonight. It's only 1:11 AM as I am writing this. I have put what I can away and every box here is now empty. The piano is in. Oh hallaluhaha! We are gonna do what we have to do but the piano is here. And, the really cool part is, that is still sounds amazing.
I thought I was gonna die listening to the guys talk about moving it. At one point it was standing on end. Yes! Upright on one end, and when I saw it, I had to walk away and pray to God that it was gonna be alright. Actually, it sounds better than it did a couple weeks ago. I was worried because there were a couple of notes that sounded broken. BUT, they seem ok tonight.
God bless you for praying.
In fact, it's amazing, but remember, I posted that God saves by few or by many and that it makes no difference to him. Well, today we knew that God had saved us by few. We had issues with car troubles which left us one man short. But, when he finally arrived, we were able to knock it out and we are thrilled that we still have tomorrow. All in all. I'm feeling pretty good, even if I'm ready to drop.
Love ya all. Thanks for your prayers. We couldn't have done it without you.

2011-12-01T22:39:00.000-06:00

In the middle of moving, I've been working on a little song....Hard to sit at a piano when there is so much to do...but I managed to eke out a few minutes to put the following to some music. We are still trying to decide if the piano will even fit in the apartment. We will let you know tomorrow. But we did manage to get 1/2 of the kitchen settled. Whooop. Whoop.

Awake. Awake, oh arm of the Lord.

Awake and put on strength.
Awake as in the olden days -
As in the days of Moses -
When you dried up the seas.
That the redeemed of the Lord may cross to safety.
That the redeemed of the Lord may cross over safely.

Awake. Awake, oh arm of the Lord.
Awake and put on strength.
Awake as in the days of old -
As promised to Abraham -
When you gave us our land.
That the redeemed of the Lord may dwell in safety.
That the redeemed of the Lord may be deliv’rd safely.

Awake. Awake, oh arm of the Lord.
Awake and put on strength.
Awake as in the days of Rahab
That the truth may be made known
When you used woman scorned.
That the redeemed of the Lord shall return rejoicing.
That the redeemed of the Lord shall return w/gladness.

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved
Inspired from Isaiah 51

Praise the Lord!

2011-11-30T18:14:00.000-06:00

1. We have our first load ready to take to the apt. in the morning. What a miracle since I am a whimpy 5' female and my husband's hip is still messed up. He's taking ibuprofen, but he is struggling to sit or lay much less moving boxes and furniture.
2. I love seeing comments on my blog. It makes me feel loved. Thank you friends. :-)
3. We are going to do our best to make a spot for the piano at the apartment. I'm thinking there has to be a way since the piano is still here. Guess I'm meant to keep playing for HIM.
4. Our help is coming early. We will have 2 healthy young men here Friday for moving the big stuff.
5. That our house seems as warm as it does set at 60 degrees. Seriously. This is a miracle.
6. That an acquaintance who happened to see our "sheriff sale notice" in the paper stopped by to express his friendship and advise. We appreciate the love.
7. That we were able to work at a steady but manageable pace.
8. That my husband is patient even when I am cranky or impatient.
9. That the weather is still holding out for us. :-)
10. That I will now have 2 days to unpack the boxes and get things settled before the big stuff comes. This means, we should be settled faster than expected. Hallaluhaha!

2 More Days! Moving Praise!

2011-11-29T18:51:00.000-06:00

I'm tempted to make this into a top 10 praise for moving...let's see how it turns out.

1. We took a hot bath a/k/a/ hot tub. Yes! My hubby joined me :-) This is about moving because it is perhaps our last time to enjoy our special wedding present. (Maybe again tomorrow?)
2. The kitchen cupboards are now completely empty!
3. The kitchen cupboards are now clean from top to bottom.
4. I am continually applying lotion to my hands to counteract the affects of the cleaning of the above. (This is a praise because most of the cleaning is done!)
5. We are now officially moving into final-stage: meaning paper plates and cups.
6. Everything is packed except what is virtually essential.
7. We took a load of building supplies to the Re-Store (Habitat for Humanity) in Hayward, Wisconsin.
8. We took a load of really good stuff to the Indianhead Community Action Agency in Hayward, WI. (They use the sales to help feed the poor in our area. I am glad to be helping our community, even if it is just a little donation.)
9. My husband went through his clothes to approve my efforts at cleaning out his closet. (This felt wonderful - for me anyway!)
10. Last but not least....oh yeah - that's right - my number 10 is usually my #1 - we have almost enough for our first months rent.

Life is good. :-) We are truly blessed.

11. Thanks Johnsons for your love, support and prayers. God bless you! Your comment blessed my socks off with huge encouragement and smiles. I saw how things have changed with the whole adoption process and just pray that God will move in spite of our Governments/beaurocracy.

3 More days Until We Move!

2011-11-28T20:16:00.000-06:00

We cooked our last meal in this house tonight. We didn't make a huge production of it or anything. I did most of the prep and although hubby hobbled around (he's had an issue with his hip for 2-3 weeks now), he insisted on doing the actual cooking. We ate at our card table on our dishes, but tomorrow I will pack up the rest of the dishes and kitchen. We will be eating out of cans and frozen entrees for the next few nights.

It was a very enjoyable dinner: simple, yet elegant. It's a recipe we've had before and added to our recipe box. It is a recipe to share: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/tuna-puttanesca-recipe2/index.html. Note: We did use all the red pepper, but then we do like a little zip for our food. We also thought it might also be nice to add a Tablespoon of fresh Parmesan cheese to your plate at the table.

We are thankful for our little electric pseudo-fireplace as we are doing our best to stretch out the LP in our tank. Last week it was at 9%. We are praying for the miracle like the widow with her last drop of oil. The weather has cooperated lately. (I'm sure it's been just for us.) We've have had our furnace totally turned off for those warmer days as well as anytime we are not here. I'm such a freeze-baby that I know it's a miracle that I've been as warm as I've managed to be.

I've been taking dips in the hot tub to stretch out my need for a hot shower. This morning, I savored my last shower in the bathroom my husband put in "just for me".

OK. I admit. I'm going to be sad to leave this beautiful home. I'm going to miss the hot tub that we got as a "wedding present". I'm going to miss the porch a/k/a sanctuary built with money from my inheritance from my father. I'm going to miss my piano/prayer room. I'm going to miss the great room with enough room for the whole family to celebrate holidays together.....

.....but keeping the stiff upper lip, I look forward to what adventure lies in the freedom of knowing we are no longer tied down to a house with mortgage and taxes. Nope. We will be free to go wherever, whenever and trust me, I've long had nomadic in my bones. In fact, I welcome a chance to travel. Bring it on!

God's Grace - Infinite Grace

2011-11-27T16:49:00.000-06:00

Before getting out of bed this morning, I starting singing "God's grace, infinite grace..."
Since I couldn't find the song in my hymnal, I had to google. The actual hymn itself wasn't as exciting as an interesting site I found:

God's Infinite Grace by Denise Guady at www.heartlight.org. In her post, she writes about her son who is in the army and her struggle to "let her son face war". She realizes that it is the same Grace that gave Abraham and Hannah strength to give their sons that will help her release her son and it's that same Grace that will lead him safely home.

http://www.heartlight.org/prayerforthenation/articles/200205/20020523_pftn-grace.html

I liked the part about Abraham obeying because he believed God would supply the offering, which we now know He did. (Genesis 22)

It's God's Grace that causes us to believe and trust Him. It is by this Grace that we move forward within our circumstances, knowing it is His gracious plan, His plan of Grace, His providing for us.

Isn't that what it's all about? The plan of Salvation is Grace for all mankind and for each one of us as individuals and as families right where we are...today.

Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished! (Luke 1:45)

What Glory He Sheds on our Way!

2011-11-26T18:09:00.001-06:00

This morning as I was praising and thanking my Father for His goodness, I sang, "what Glory you shed on my way"! It surprised me and gave me pause. The term in the Psalms is "selah" meaning stop and think. Well, I didn't have to be told to pause. It literally gave me pause.

This is a line from the hymn "Trust and Obey". Seriously? This song has been randomly (?) popping into my head for the past month or so. It pushes every "legalistic" button in my head. (Thank God He is working on removing all of them.) I had been pushing it out of my mind and rejecting it every time.

After all these thoughts rushed through my head, I had to open the hymn book and declare:
OUT with the strict stern taskmaster with the stick in his hand ready to strike....
IN with the Father who smiles, sheds His favor and all the delights of His love into my heart...
AND I had to smile.

I guess this has been what He's been waiting to show me. I gave my wounded thoughts to Him. He is not the strict Father with the stick. He is the Daddy who understands and welcomes me onto his lap. He brushes away my tears and fears. He will never tell me to suck it up or stop crying. He's the Daddy who says, "I will help. I want to help". He will ease the burden. He will ease the pain. That's what He is there for.

With tears of healing running down my cheeks, I realize that's what trust is. I trust Him enough to ask Him for help. I trust Him enough to go to Him for help with everything.

To trust Him is to obey Him. Oh what glory.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oh0FOoXd_C0

Thankful!

2011-11-25T16:30:00.000-06:00

I have been mulling over a column which was written by my beloved Pastor from the Wesleyan Church in Hayward, WI. The fact that I have such a strong reaction and am still reacting to his column is proof to me that I need to respond.

http://www.haywardwi.com/articles/2011/11/16/columns/doc4ec3cabd5c441802597763.txt

It's a great column. He has amazing insight and wisdom. My reaction is about me. It seems like eons ago since I read the book "The Spirit Filled Temperature" by Tim LaHaye. The book puts people into 4 personality groups: Choleric (the leaders), Melancholy (the thinkers), Sanguine (the theatricals) and the Phlegmatics (the observers).

After reading the book, I don't think I ever really identified which category best described me. It seemed to me that I might be a little bit of each type except "the observers".

What I've noticed most in my life is that I clash with cholerics: Those bossy leaders who tell you what to do every chance they get; I wish I was more like a phlegmatic (they just seem to see details that go way over my head); I like to think I'm a thinker (thus melancholy) for I truly seek to connect with and have more meaningful relationships; and if I allow myself, I let loose with my theatrical (sanguine) singer/dancer side.

In Pastor Mark's column, He labels them:
1. sanguine - let's have fun. 2. melancholy - let's go deep.
3. choleric - let's get moving. 4. phlegmatic - let's get along.

As such, he then identifies how to encourage each group. This is where he hits me straight up.
1. A sanguine is inspired by inspiration (an uplifting quote or idea).
2. A melancholy is encouraged when someone understands and empathizes with them.
3. A choleric is encouraged by doing (by taking action)!
4. A phlegmatic is encouraged by peace (by working together in harmony).

I react to each one of these. My strongest reaction, however, is realizing that I am reacting to the paragraph which states that a choleric becomes discouraged and frustrated when people sit around flapping their jaws without taking action. He says they interpret inaction as apathy. I would add that it adds insult to their injury because they also interpret inaction as not caring or loving them enough to "do something".

Since we have 1 week (7 days) until our big move, I am most encouraged by action. I am encouraged and blessed to see things getting done. I am encouraged to hear that we have some muscle power coming onstage. AND it makes me feel loved! This makes me thankful!

Thankful!

2011-11-24T15:06:00.000-06:00

It's Thanksgiving! It's time to reflect. I'm sure my list isn't much different from yours, but truly our circumstances have given us a deeper appreciation for things that we have previously taken for granted. It's truly the simple things in life that I appreciate the most:

1. a warm shower or bath (as we are praying our LP will miraculously multiply)
2. a good cup of coffee (flavored or not)
3. a husband who loves me (and does sweet things for me)
4. my children and grand-children who bring me joy just by being who they are
5. Games (Scrabble, Boggle, any cards, Tetris & Bejeweled)
6. Health (especially when certain body parts start to ache and rebel against movement)
7. having a best friend (I've waited all my life for this special friend with kindred spirit).
8. a good book (especially a good romance or thriller)
9. my job (even though there are times when I hate it, I'm so thankful to have it)
10. time to savor any of the above

These are not in any particular order as it would be extremely difficult to rate what I might value the most. I'm thinking that it depends upon the moment and the need.

Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving Day!

Joseph Dreams!

2011-11-23T06:44:00.000-06:00

This morning I was stopped by the phrase, "Joseph Dreams of Greatness"!

Now Joseph had a dream. The Hebrew word for "had a dream" actually means "to bind firmly". NICE. The dream (or vision) given to Joseph firmly bound him up in the plan that God had for him. WOW! In other words: it caused him to be in agreement with God!

Dreams and visions from God are not easily forgotten. They stick with you! They remain in your heart. You can't get rid of them. In fact, they are actually a spiritual experience which roots deeply into our hearts.

This dream kept Joseph going. It sustained him even through his years in prison. Even though he was forsaken and forgotten by people, he was never forsaken or forgotten by God. I'm thinking Joseph found grace in this prison wilderness.

Also of interest to me is that God used dreams to get him out of prison. God's hand may move when we least expect it. Our most important opportunities may just seem to suddenly appear "out of nowhere".

Isn't that what the Bible is about? Providence. Examples of God's hand of providence and provision in an individual life. Examples of His provision of an answer before we even know we have a need? It's His nature to provide. It's who He is.

He has already provided everything you need to realize His dream through you! Even if you are wrongly treated, like Joseph, accused and put in prison, even through the worst hardship or difficulties, disappointment or suffering, God is working everything out! Reminds me of kneading bread. He will work out all the burps and air bubbles to produce the best tasting loaf!

A Year Round Garden

2011-11-22T15:43:00.000-06:00

First plant five rows of peas: Prayer, perseverance, politeness, purity, peacefulness.

Next plant three rows of squash: squash gossip, squash faultfinding, squash indifference.

Then five rows of lettuce: Let us be faithful, let us be unselfish, let us be truthful, let us love one another, let us follow Christ.

Finally no garden is complete without turnips: Turn up for church, turn up with a smile, turn up with new ideas, turn up with determination to make everything count for something good and wonderful.

I do not know who wrote this little dittie, but I have saved it in my office for 2 years now. I thought it was cute. Since I've posted it here, I can throw the paper away now. Phew. So many papers to go. But, that's one less now. Whoohoo!

2011-11-21T10:58:00.000-06:00

We aren't staying on track with our moving process. We are getting behind "my" schedule. You gotta know me: planner, mover, shaker, doer! It is difficult to be a planner when your plans so easily get waylaid (by weather, by car troubles, by health not to mention depending upon other people’s schedules).

Since, we are few (as in just the two of us) I am comforted by my own last blog. "The Lord is able to save and nothing can hinder him, whether by many or by few."

This morning I was also comforted by these words from Ruth. “I will sit still until I know how the matter will turn out, for the Redeemer will not rest until HE has concluded the matter". In fact, I sang it in a little jingle for myself. Sit and see. I took German which is “sitzen” and you sit would be “sitzen sie”. “Sit and see. Sitzen Sie…what the Lord will do for me!” I know. I’m a geek, but I know there is power is professing truth and when I do this in cadence or rhyme, it reinforces the truth to myself as well as professing truth to the powers that be.

When I got to work this morning, my calendar verse reinforced this message: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you....Keep your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears; for there is a reward for your work, says the Lord...there is hope for your future. Jeremiah 31:3, 16-17 NRSV

Speaking of Covering Your Butt...

2011-11-19T15:28:00.000-06:00

During my quiet time this morning, I was pondering the term "my Jonathan" when referring to a very good friend. I wondered how much we really notice Jonathan. We don't really refer to him as one of the "greats". When we think of Bible heroes, does he even come to mind? Doubtful. So what do we really know about him?
1. He's Saul's son
2. He's good even though his dad was evil
3. He's David's best friend
4. He's loyal to David inspite of his father

I turned to I Samuel 14. Jonathan sneaks out of camp (just him and his armor-bearer), trusting God to save them. The first thing I notice is what he says in verse 6: "it may be that the Lord will work for us. For nothing restrains the Lord from saving by many or by few". The Amplified says "there is nothing to prevent the Lord from saving by many or by few".

5. He's brave and fearless and knows His God. He is not discouraged by difficulties (in this case the natural entrenchment was virtually impregnable).
6. He wasn't interested in asking anyone else's opinion or advise. He probably knew they would try to talk him out of moving forward on behalf of serving or saving his country.
7. He encouraged his armor-bearer to come with him. He encouraged his buddy to "take this walk with him because we know that God is with us".

God is Able to make us victorious over them (whoever our enemy may be). There is no limit to the Holy One of Israel. It's all the same to Him - to save by many or to save by few.

Be encouraged, my friend! Be encouraged, Israel. That Same Holy One of Israel is still able to save by many or by few.

2011-11-18T14:29:00.000-06:00

I just have to rejoice and share another little way that the Lord has covered my butt.
I've been working a very part time job with only a few hours here and there.

Today, I kept thinking that I should check my account balance. I ran errands during lunch, but when I got back to the office, I thought again about checking my account balance. I logged in and discovered there was a $200.00 automatic withdrawal yesterday that comes out once a year. I was thinking it would come out in December, but there it was today. My first reaction was, "Oh no! I wasn't counting on that." I am trying to save for our first months rent and $200.00 is a big chunk to miss.

But, I soon realized that my account balance was where it should be. There was an extra deposit made the day before for $203.00 from my very part time job.

I just love it when my Father covers my butt.

Monday's Song

2011-11-17T16:58:00.000-06:00

I'm pretty excited about Monday's song. This song has been in the process for several years actually.

http://profitableprose.blogspot.com/2011/11/sing-sing-sing-in-zion.html

The Lord gave me the chorus a few years ago. I used to sing it on my walks. I put the verses together while writing in my journal on Sunday (the 13th).

On my way to work on Wednesday (the 16th), I started singing the verses. So I sang them into the voice recorder on my telephone.

Today, I listened to the recording and put it on paper along with the chorus and a bridge. While putting it to music, I changed my third verse since I noticed it was similar to the 2nd verse.

At any rate, I am really pleased with the results. I'm also very pleased that I've learned to relax and not stress about how I am ever going to find time to write. I'm realizing that I can write just about anywhere: in the car, in a room with other people, on a walk, while I'm cleaning the house or making dinner and even in my sleep. I'm even learning that when I have no clue about what to blog and only a few minutes, I just ask Him to help me write and He comes through.

2011-11-16T12:26:00.000-06:00

This morning, I wrote: Father, I give you my heart and all my desires. Father....insurmountable? NO! NOT for you!

Then, I found this blog in my drafts (from last week). I thought it had published. Looks like it's still appropriate for today.

As I was praising the Father for beginning to unfold His plan for us, I was impressed to re-read a Psalm (93) that I had read a couple days ago.

Two things stood out.

First, that the God who established the world so that it cannot be shaken is the same God who establishes our own immediate world. Establish: to make firm or stable, to put on a firm basis: set up, to prove, demonstrate, authenticate, support, to institute permanently, found. AMEN. Establish your plans for us!

Second, that the Lord on High is mightier than the "NOISE" of many waters. I laughed because I suddenly see the "noise of many waters" as the noise of obstacles, of troubles or of anything like that. Troubles and obstacles are just that: noise!

The Lord on High is mightier than any obstacles in our way. Hallalujah!
The Lord on High is mightier than any obstacles in your way. Hallalujah!

2011-11-16T08:49:00.000-06:00

But indeed for this purpose I have raised you up,
for indeed for this purpose I have raised you up,
Yes! indeed for this purpose I have raised you up!
that I may show my power in you.

But indeed for this purpose I have been raised up.
For indeed for this purpose I have been raised up.
Yes! indeed for this purpose I have been raised up
that YOU may show your power in me.

AND that your Name may be made known.
Yes that your Name may be made known.
Let the whole world know that there is no God like you.
Let the whole world know there is No God BUT YOU!

Yes indeed for this purpose I will stand in faith.
Yes indeed for this purpose I will stand in faith.
Yes indeed for this purpose I will stand in faith.
that You may prove your power in me.

AND that your Name may be made know.
Yes that your Name may be made known.
Let the whole world know that there is no God like you.
Let the whole world know there is NO God BUT YOU!

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

In Many Ways, We are Camped...

2011-11-15T15:59:00.000-06:00

like the Israelites, we are camped. We are on the edge, on the verge. Let me read it again. (Exodus 14)
Speak to the children (of Israel) that they turn and camp. You shall camp.
Even the word camp itself proves that it is just a temporary place. Interesting. God tells them to camp because:
For Pharaoh (the enemy) will think that you are bewildered or lost. He will say that the wilderness has closed you in and there is no one to save you.
BUT, WE KNOW OUR GOD!
God adds: "THEN I will harden Pharaoh's heart to come after you and pursue you. THEN I will gain honor* over Pharaoh that they may know that I am the LORD.
*This phrase references Exodus 9:16: BUT indeed for this purpose I have raised you up: that I may show my power in you. AND that MY name may be known in all the earth.
AMEN. That we may know there is no God like you. There is no God BUT our God.
So, the Egyptians pursued them and overtook them camping by the sea. When the children (of Israel) saw their enemies, they were very afraid....
Did they forget what God had just told them? Did they not connect 2 and 2? Did they miss the connection?
When facing our enemies or our unsurmountable obstacles, do we cry out in fear like the children of Israel? It's interesting that it was their fear that caused them to take the next step, to complain or to bemoan their circumstances. They regretted even leaving Egypt.
Yet, God says, "Why are you crying? No regrets. Tell them to stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. Tell them I will fight for you. Watch and SEE what HE will accomplish for you today!"
An interesting sideline: Today is the 15th. This was from the 15th verse. The children of Israel departed Egypt on the 15th day and they went out with boldness (victory) in the sight of all the enemies because the enemies were burying all their dead!

Putting 2 and 2 Together.....

2011-11-15T09:23:00.001-06:00

Sometimes I wonder about the little things. Sometimes I shake my head because of messages that seem to be totally missed.

As I was pondering this subject this morning, I realized that I often miss the obvious (you know, the little details in our daily routines). Do we really listen? Are we so absorbed in our own little worlds that we seem to miss connecting to the obvious? Or maybe "we" (ahem, rather "I") just talk too much.

For example: "Honey, I'm really craving some good coffee since drinking the last of our Starbucks from Brother Bill." How about if we use our gift card to buy some good coffee? "Sure". "OK, I'm going to stop at the coffee shop and get some". Then again that afternoon, "OK, I'll be home after I stop at the coffee shop."

I could smell the coffee all the way home. I couldn't wait! BUT....seriously, when I got home, the coffee was already made with the coffee we'd ordered from Share. It's good coffee, but not quite like Starbucks or our local coffee shop. hmmmm.

Another example: We were waiting for documents from the Abstract Company which we hoped would come this past Friday. They were going to email them if they got them proofed on Friday. No email.
Today (Monday) I realized that I was going to need to get them before noon in order to get them out in time for Fed-Ex pick up. When I called, I was told that she had faxed them to the shop Friday afternoon. We didn't know. They didn't call or email. The fax line at the shop is one that we have to switch the telephone line to before we can receive the fax. hmmmmm.

If we miss the little things in life, what important signs might we be missing? Do we really see them? How often do I breeze on by without really seeing?

Open my eyes to the important signs. I don't care if I miss 1,000 details that don't really matter but, thank God you repeat yourself.

When I got to work, my calendar verse said: Cause me to hear your love in the morning! Ha.

2011-11-14T12:24:00.001-06:00

Sing, Sing, Sing in Zion.
Sing, Sing, Sing oh Israel.
Sing, Sing, Sing in Zion.
Sing, Sing, Sing oh children of Israel.

1. The Lord will come for you
Yes. He will come for you.
He will gather you in His arms
for you are blessed by the Lord.

Sing, sing, sing in Zion..............

2. The Lord will be your wall.
A wall of fire round you.
He will be the glory in you-
You are the apple of His eye.

Sing, sing, sing in Zion.............

3. The Lord will dwell in you.
He will dwell in you.
You shall know that He is with you-
You are chosen by His hand.

Sing, sing, sing in Zion...............

Sing, daughter sing for we will know
Our God is with us
We will know
that He, that He, that He is strong.

Sing, sing sing in Zion...............

Copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

(Inspired by Zechariah 2.)

2011-11-13T12:45:00.002-06:00

What started out as another 5 minutes of random writing this morning, soon turned into a project. I was singing, "When the Spirit of the Lord moves in my heart, I will dance, I will sing, I will shout and I will rejoice.

Totally devoted with all humility of heart:

Totally devoted with all humility of heart.
Remove all my adult grown-up reserve-ed-ness!
Make room for playful, joyful laughter to start.
Open and ready. I want it all and nothing less!

Totally ready to take a giant faithful leap.
Prepare my heart with joyful pleasure to soar.
A joyful heart overflowing, unable to contain or keep
it's quenching waters attracting others to its refreshing downpour.

copyright
Nellie Dee
All Rights Reserved

Hoping this gobbly-gook can be worked into something worth writing and reading.

Dance Like David

2011-11-13T04:39:00.000-06:00

In my 5 minute writing (see previous post), I wrote about dancing like David. This led to a reading of II Samuel 6. http://www.biblestudytools.com/2-samuel/passage.aspx?q=2-samuel+6:12-22

So, what caused David to dance? David danced shamelessly, uncovered, open, exposed. (He took off his kingly robes.) The literal translation for rejoicing is "spinning around". Usually only women danced. Most certainly never would a King dance before the people, to be seen in such an undignified manner and uncovered like a common man.

David rejoiced because God had chosen him. He tells his wife, "I will play music before the Lord. I will dance all I want to, for I am chosen by God."

Yes. David's dancing should encourage us to be so devoted to the Lord, to be so humble. We should never allow our pride to keep us from wholehearted worship. We should worship Him with all our being and all our strength, with all childlike abandonment, dancing before Him and giving Him shouts of praise.

HALLALUJAH! HALLALUJAH! HALLALUJAH! (Yes. I am shouting!)

5 Minutes

2011-11-12T16:39:00.000-06:00

The other day, I read a blog about taking just 5 minutes and writing about something.

http://godalonewillfillthoseemptyplaces.blogspot.com/2011/11/just-five-minutes.html

This morning I did this. Here is what I wrote:

Thank you (God) for my get-away room. Without it, I'd keep myself busy...and I never want to be too busy for my Father, my Lover. Wish you could play Scrabble with me. Will there be word games in heaven or will we all just be too smart for games?

Somehow, I see us free: like children. Free to display sudden random joyful outbursts, free to skip, dance, run and jump. Somehow, I wonder if heaven isn't a place to return to our "true" uninhibited natural spirit, like a toddler, like virginal restoration.

Somehow, I find this most appealing and desirable. How wonderful to be truly free to express shameless joy.

Oh Father, I truly want to bring you joy today. I want to bless you. I want to express my love and appreciation to you. I want to sing and dance, to rejoice, to dance like David danced with all abandonment.

My 11-11-11 Message: Stay Close!

2011-11-11T20:08:00.000-06:00

Saved by GRACE and only by Grace are we saved.
Ruth 2:9-11 says, "Wow. You have noticed me. Me, a foreigner, a sinner, yet I have found favor in your eyes. I am redeemed by grace.

Verse 9 says: "So....so my daughter who is saved by grace (Jesus), do this:

1. Let your eyes be on the field (for harvest).
2. Go after those who need salvation.
3. Know that I (Yah) protect you.
4. Drink your fill from my provision (My son, Jesus Christ).
5. Stay close! (Ruth 2:21) Stay close until the harvest is finished.

I love verse 13. I am amazed. "Let me now find favor in your eyes.

This reminds me of my other favorite prayer from Moses. (Exodus 33:13) Moses says, "now therefore if I have found grace in your eyes, show me now your way that I may know you and that I may find grace in your sight".

This is great advise for the eleventh hour: go after the harvest, church. And know that He protects you. Drink your fill, church, from Him and not from the world. AND, do everything in your power to "stay close" to Him!

11-11-11

2011-11-11T19:48:00.001-06:00

I woke up early again today and as I wrote the date in my journal, my first thought was "eleventh" hour. I thought about the Biblical Hermeneutics book that I used to have. It had the Biblical symbolic meaning for numbers. I wish I still had that book. It's an example of something I discarded in a move and years later still regret. (Reminder to self: Keep asking the Father to help me make the right decisions about this current move.)

There are a lot of things that can be said about or learned about the number 11, but the overall consensus is that it represents disorder and judgment. For further information or indepth study see: http://www.biblestudy.org/bibleref/meaning-of-numbers-in-bible/11.html

To think: this search all began as a result of thinking of a fellow-blogger who posted about writing for 5 minutes about whatever came to mind. When I wrote today's date, I thought of that book I regret giving away and then thank God for the internet being such a great resource.

I then wrote: "I present myself to you (God). What would you like to discuss with me?"

I know. It sounds kinds of cheesy but this reminds me of the picture of Ruth presenting herself to Boaz and how she laid at his feet. "Like that, I present myself to you Father".

When I turned to Ruth and read the beautiful story, I couldn't help but be moved.

Naomi left her homeland and her God. She lost her husband and her sons. Interestingly, they had left because there was a famine. After her sons died, Noami heard that the Lord had visited His people and given them bread". She heard that He had provided and taken care of His people!

She decided to make the journey back home, but she returns wounded. She professes, "Don't call me pleasant. Call me bitter. God has dealt me a bitter blow. I've lost my family (my husband and my sons)." She's lost everything.

This is so significant. Whether you have lost everything and wept bitter tears over death....even death resulting from backsliding, God is still God. He is still Redeemer. He still redeems lives and families. He still Promises: Now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you "all" that you request." Ruth 3:11 (eleven).

WOW. What a loving Redeemer. He makes all things beautiful. He restores.

In verse 18, He goes on to say, "sit still, my daughter, until you know how the matter will turn out. FOR the Redeemer (Boaz) (Christ) will not rest until HE has concluded the matter this day."

It rocks that we wait for such a loving and kind Redeemer. He is coming soon. This is truly the eleventh hour. He will restore!

2011-11-10T11:08:00.000-06:00

Somewhere in my morning thoughts, I thought about God smiling on us and I remembered how God spoke about friend Job.

He asks satan, "have you set your heart on my friend"? Wow. That's what the literal translation is for the phrase as I've always heard it, "Have you considered my friend, Job?" I love how God knows our hearts. I love how God gets right to the point.

I love how He answers satan before satan responds. He says, "There is no one like him".

Then He adds, "Job is blameless, upright, fearing me and turns away from evil" or as The Message puts it; "He is honest, true to his word, totally devoted to God and hates evil".

David and Job both claim, "God is my defender". It's our faith in HIM that makes Him smile on us. It's our faith in Him that causes Him to say, "there is no one like you". It's our faith in Him that causes Him to be our Defender!

Boldly (proudly) proclaim, "God smiles on me and God is my Defender!"

A Word of Encouragement to My Sisters...

2011-11-09T12:33:00.003-06:00

Sometimes when I ask God what He wants me to know, I just sit and listen and write what comes into my head. I wonder sometimes if I'm meant to savor these things or to share them. After pondering this, I feel that love and encouragement are always meant to be shared. So, the following is for my sisters, whoever you are who come across this blog.

"My beautiful daughter. Yes! Beautiful. When I look at you, I am pleased. You give me joy. I delight in you. Drink and nourish your soul in my never-ending love. Never-ending! I love you forever, daughter.
Be encouraged today and know that I will always fight for you. I will always defend you and your honor.
Be encouraged. Take heart for I AM with you. Do not fear for I AM provider. You will have all your needs met. Yes. I AM taking care of every detail.
Do not worry. Do not fear. Peace. Let my love saturate your soul and fill you with my powerful peace. There is nothing I wouldn't do for you, my princess, my bride, my beloved, my betrothed."

We Stand in Faith Believing!

2011-11-08T16:09:00.001-06:00

Like our father's before us, we stand in faith believing:
We will be receiving all your glory, all your glory.
He waits on high to be gracious, to bless us with His mercy.
We will stand proclaiming all His goodness, all His goodness.

chorus: So we stand, we stand in faith
             knowing that your word is true
             tho' we face our own Goliaths
             we like David do declare:
             Who is this who dares defy?
             For we belong to the living God. (2x)

Thru the deserts and darkness, His presence goes before us.
We will wait expecting He's our victor, He's our victor.
It is as He's promised that in the end we conquor
We will rise victorious in His glory, In all His glory.

Chorus

His Name be praised. His own name be proclaimed.
To His Name be all glory. To His Name we sing. To His Name be all praise.

Chorus

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Nellie Dee
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