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“For the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught.”  Proverbs 3:26

The story is told of a second string quarterback who was called up by his coach to go into a football game with his team behind by two touchdowns and two minutes left in the game.  The quarterback strapped on his helmet, and begin to run out on the field toward the huddle.  He suddenly stopped, turned around, and trotted back to the coach.  When he faced the coach, he unstrapped his helmet, took a squirt of water, and said, “Coach, I forgot to ask you, do you want me to just tie this game or go ahead and win it?”  Now, that’s confidence!

Confidence is defined as trust, faith, and assurance in something.  I am confident of many things – night will follow day, the earth will spin on its axis, spring will follow winter, doctors will make good decisions about  health issues, pilots are well trained to fly  an airplane, and eternal life will follow death – just to name a few.

There are people I know who must exhibit confidence each day in things ranging from addictions to illnesses and everything in between.  These folks have trust, faith and assurance, not only in the worldly things, but in God.  Confidence in God yields contentment.  I see this contentment when I look at them.

Confidence is also boldness.  There are people I know who exhibit this boldness by acting on their beliefs.  They don’t just talk about what God can do, they act on it.  They know God personally and believe He is able to do whatever they ask in His name.  I believe in that kind of confidence.  Grace is the face I see when I think of this kind of confidence.  She has confidence in miracles – great and ordinary.

God wants us to be confident that he’s pouring His strength into us so that we can do whatever it takes to overcome the obstacles in our life.  He wants us to ultimately find our confidence resting in Him.  God tells us that our confidence is secured in Christ, and we can have it to the fullest.

This Super Bowl weekend, I pray that we, just like the quarterback in the story will face each day with confidence, boldness, contentment, and assurance.  Grace, you are that quarterback to me!

“For I am confident that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things presents, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”  Romans 8:38-39

 

“This is my commandment that you love one another as I have loved you.”  John 15:12

“Whoever devotes themselves to themselves will have nothing to show for themselves but themselves.”  Anonymous

In this world of “I” – I-phones, I-pads, I-cloud, etc., it’s an awakening to realize that the world doesn’t revolve around the “I”‘s in our lives.  Each generation has a plan for how life and the world should be, but God’s way is not always their way.  At this point, there are three generations in our immediate family, and there is certainly a huge gap between the oldest and youngest in terms of the world view.  I like to think we teach each other a lot!

There are six different generations living in this world today.  The first is the Traditionalists or Silent Generation who grew up in the depression and  exhibit characteristics of morality, loyalty and are team players.

The second is the Baby Boomers who grew up in the 40’s and 50’s and are characterized as disciplined, self sacrificing, driven, and optimistic.

Thirdly, is the Generation X folks who are described as entrepreneurial, self absorbed, and individualistic.

Fourthly, the Millennials who have never known a world without computers.  They need to be told over and over again that they are special, and they expect the world to treat them that way.  They prefer a relaxed work environment with a lot of hand holding and accolades.

Lastly, the Generation Z or Centennials who must have a cell phone (even young children), TV’s in every room, and video games.  They are savvy consumers who know what they want and how to get it.  The Alpha babies of today will be the sixth generation, and we will have to wait for their characteristics.

These generations are so far apart in their view of religion, Christianity, politics, social issues, moral issues, finances, and almost everything else.  The fact that longevity of life has increased, raises the question of how all these different life styles can come together for a common good.  It is my opinion that each generation has something of value that could be shared with all the others if we would but open our hearts and minds to it.

Perhaps a common ground could be the investment in others.  When  you invest in another person, you actually give yourself a gift, because you can’t light someone else’s path without brightening your own.  Each generation has something to offer that no one else can give.  If we put “I” aside and focus on “we”, what a difference we could make together!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“I have learned that there is more power in a good strong hug than in a thousand meaningful words.”  Ann Hood

When I think of good strong hugs, my mind immediately goes to a few people who give them regularly…Cindi, Casey, Jim, Bogue, and Kathy.  I know there are others, but these folks are the best!  I love it when people hug me tightly and when I start to move away, they just keep holding on.

When we hug someone in a proper way, we use our hands, arms, and shoulders to wrap them up.  It likens itself to a cocoon that wraps us and protects us.  Hugs can show belonging, affirmation, understanding, intimacy, comfort, consolation, celebration, love, and assurance.  It’s the best way I know to show people you care.

How does God hug us?  When I think of Jesus, my mind goes to the Children’s Bible stories where there were pictures of children wrapped in His arms.  He was hugging them close to show His love for them.  I think He does the same for us through our relationships with others.  God can’t be everywhere, so He sends Christian friends to hug us in His stead.

I have a neighbor who recently lost her husband of 60 years.  I went by to see her the other day, but when she opened the door, I felt words were just inadequate.  Instead, I opened my arms and said, “I just came over to give you a hug.”  Hugs are there when words fail.

As we think of situations of suffering, pain, loss, depression, anxiety, fear, and any other emotion that is part of our lives, I think of the strong arms of Jesus wrapping around us in the form of our Christian friends.

These scriptures assure me and feel like hugs from heaven.

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels or demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”  Romans 8:38-39

“See what great love the father has lavished on us that we should be called children of God!  And that is what we are!”  1 John 3:1

 

 

 

“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”  Psalm 126:3

“There are persons so radiant, so genial, so kind, so pleasure-bearing, that you instinctively feel in their presence that they do you good, whose coming into a room is like bringing a shining lamp there.”  Henry Ward Beecher

In 1982,  Randy and I were serving in the small town of Bowdon, Georgia.  When you enter the town, a sign reads, “Welcome to Bowdon – home of the nicest people on earth and a few old grouches.”  We were fortunate to know most of the nicest people on earth.

It so happens that this particular year the church in Bowdon was recognized by the North Georgia Conference as Church of the Year in evangelism and growth.  These sweet folks wanted to give Randy and me something to honor his work and dedication, so they decided we should have a trip somewhere.

In the Methodist fashion, a committee was formed to study the possible destinations.  According to legend, many suggestions were made, but in the end, Dr. W.P. Smith (a great man, UGA alum, and Bulldog supporter) decided that nothing could be better suited to Randy than a trip to the Sugar Bowl to watch the Dawgs play Penn State.  Since he was the planner and major contributor, the trip was a “go”.

We were surprised with a bowl of sugar complete with tickets to the game, a hotel reservation, and four friends to accompany us (they were going anyway, so we got a ride).  It was a moment of pure joy for Randy!!  The absolute surprise and joy of that moment was so evident on his face, but I will never forget the look of joy on Dr. Smith’s face as he presented it!  He was overflowing!

It’s such a feeling when you can do something unexpected for someone else in this world.  It doesn’t have to be a monetary gift, but just a call, a card, or a word of encouragement can mean so much!  I know people who bring joy wherever they go and to whoever they touch!

The joy was not to extend to the game that year, but the trip will be a joyful memory forever thanks to a person who wanted to do something for someone else.  Looks like we will have to wait til next year to seek a National Championship, but thank you, Georgia Bulldogs, for a joyful season!

The picture shows where we sat and ate most of our meals.   We also picked up unknown Georgia fans along the way, but wherever there is joy, a celebration happens!

 

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  He shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”  Isaiah 9:6

I love the word, “Shalom”, not only because of its definition, but also because the very word when verbalized feels like peace.  The Hebrew word means, “peace, harmony, wholeness, completeness, prosperity, welfare and tranquility.”  All these blessings wrapped up in one very beautiful word.

As the snow came down in Marietta and all of the surrounding areas a few weeks ago,  we were “stranded” (meaning traffic was bumper to bumper) around Perimeter Mall area.  Once we got home safely, I could take a deep breath and enjoy the snow.  I don’t know what it is, but when snow falls, the world seems so quiet and peaceful.  I can feel my whole body relax and breathe in the pure tranquility.

Therapists say that the only time the body is completely relaxed is when we take a deep breath and exhale.  It’s such a shame that we carry so much stress that we have to take a time apart and just breathe to feel relaxed.

It’s time to make New Year’s resolutions which always adds to my stress level because I set unrealistic goals and expectations for the New Year. Then, I rationalize when I break the resolutions.  Can I lose those extra 20 pounds?  Only if I don’t have to give up sweets.  Can I exercise every day?  I have to take Sundays off.  Can I eat healthy meals?  I don’t know how to cook healthy.  Can I read my Bible every day?  Yes, but do I let other things come first?  Yes.  Can I pray for others every day?  Of course, but I don’t always remember to include everyone.  The stress of keeping those resolutions adds to all the other stress of life.

This year my resolution is simple – rely on God and know that He will never give us anything that the two of us can’t handle.  It’s not stress that makes my shoulders and neck ache, it’s my reaction to it.  In this new year of 2018, I am praying simply for peace.  Peace in the world, peace in our country, peace in our community, peace in our homes, peace in our families, and peace in my heart.  Shalom.  Inhale.  Exhale.

 

 

 

 

“Life is like music; some high notes, some low notes; still together it makes beautiful music.”

Descant in music is defined as “an independent treble melody usually sung or played above a basic melody.”  I love to hear ladies who can hit these high notes consistently while the melody goes on beneath their voices.

My Mama was able to sing this part regularly, and she always did it with assurance, clarity, and strength.  I always wondered if she was nervous, but I think she practiced so much that she felt a sense of peace and confidence.  I can’t say I ever knew her to miss a high note; although, she probably would tell a different story.  If she did, nobody knew it except her.

As I look back on this year, it has certainly not been all high notes.  We have seen the loss of many folks who were dear to us, people we love are fighting cancer and other health related issues, there has been renewed chatter of war, the ever unstable political climate, terrorism, senseless killings, and an overall tension in our world.  How do we end this year on a high note?

Challenges come in everyday life.  Like a musician, you have practiced your faith, and you have your own opportunities to stand boldly and live.  Some people face life’s hardships with confidence and boldness while others are plagued with doubts and fears.  Jesus identifies with our circumstances and feels every single thing we are experiencing.

Life is like music.  Some of us are experiencing “high” times, others “low” times, but the melody of life goes on despite our individual experiences.

Whatever we are facing now and in this coming year, we should be assured that we don’t face anything alone for God is walking right alongside us.  He is giving us the strength to end this year and begin the coming year on a “high note.”  Happy New Year!

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”  Philippians 4:13

 

“Again Jesus spoke to them saying, “I am the light of the world.  Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”                    John 8:12

A couple of weeks ago, Randy and I were putting up our traditional Christmas decorations.  Most of these garlands, wreaths, trees, etc. have pre-lit lights on them which is great if the lights work.  Most of the time, I check the lights before I put them up, but this time I was out doing errands, and Randy put them up!  When I got home and plugged them in to the source of electricity, there was no light – only darkness.

It’s so maddening because I know there is probably only one or two bad lights, but unless you can find them, the entire string is faulty. These couple of lights plunge everything into darkness. They prevent the light from shining in the darkness.  Hours later, we had removed all the faulty strings and replaced them with new ones.  What a difference light makes to a home, a door, and a life.

Just like decorations, there are circumstances in this world that seem to be intent on putting out the light in so many lives.  Then comes Christmas – the time that offers hope to the world.

Jesus came to bring light to the world.  He brings the Light of His truth, the Light of His word, and the Light of eternal life.  In this world, we all need to hear about and see the light that Jesus can bring into a life that is struggling  with darkness.  We, as followers, are bearers of this light, and it is our job to find the dark spots and bring light to them.

As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, I pray that all can experience the “Light of the World”, Jesus Christ.

Merry Christmas!

“For God so loved the world that He sent His only son.”  John 3:16

During my high school years, I always worked the weeks leading up to Christmas in Miss Gloria’s jewelry and gift shop.  My good friend and I were the official gift wrap team, and on occasion, we waited on customers.

One afternoon, our senior high school quarterback and best all around guy came into the store to shop for his girlfriend.  We all watched in admiration as he strolled around the store and stopped before the case which contained diamond rings.  Now, he was a farmer’s son, and everyone knew money was tight for his family.  Miss Gloria was busy, so my friend and I walked over together to help him.  We had all followed his love story with his sweetheart, and we were curious to know what he would give her this year.

He asked us to show him engagement rings, and it was with a great deal of excitement that we began to pull out all we had.  One by one, he eliminated the rings until he found a small diamond ring.  Although small, he wanted to know all about the diamond.  We had Miss Gloria come over to explain the size, quality and clarity of the diamond.  Although it was small, the stone was nearly perfect!  He smiled, and said, “I’ll take it.  It’s perfect.”  He paid cash and told us he would be back later to pick it up.

My friend and I decided to give him the royal wrapping treatment for this perfect gift.  We started with a tiny box which we put into a bigger box, then we put that box into a bigger box, and on and on.  When we finished, the box was huge and beautifully wrapped!  Perfect!

We were disappointed when he returned because he looked at the box, laughed, and said, “thank you, but she won’t care what size box I bring.  She knows whatever I give her is a gift of love!”

Love can’t be measured by the size of the box which contains the gift.  It is the gift itself that matters.  God gave us the greatest gift in the form of a tiny baby who became our Savior.  Christmas proves God’s love for us.  He sent his son in human form to show us His love.  Love literally came down from above at Christmas!

 

 

 

 

“Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers,                         Remember when you’re talking to the Man upstairs,
That just because He doesn’t answer doesn’t mean He don’t care ….                                                  Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswered prayers.”  Garth Brooks

I had the pleasure of attending Garth Brooks’ concert in the Mercedes Benz stadium a few weeks ago.  I love his music, and I discovered that I am not alone!  Ninety thousand of my closest friends love it as well!!  I also learned that this is a close knit group, and if you don’t know all the words to his songs, you are in the minority.

I love several of his songs, but Unanswered Prayer is one of my favorites.  Although, I don’t believe there is such a thing as the unanswered prayer, the story is a sweet one.  I think God answers prayer in one of three ways:  “yes”, “no”, or “wait”, we just don’t always like to accept the answer.

It is during the time that we wait for answers that hope becomes real to us. Hope is defined as “a feeling of  expectation and a desire for a certain thing to happen.”  We hope for the answer to our prayers, but we also hope they will be answered in the way we would like.  God sent Jesus into this world to offer us hope.  That hope is God’s gift to us, and although it is always with us, Christmas reminds us anew of it.  Jesus is the hope of the world.

As we offer prayers during this Advent season, I pray that the hope of God will be real to us through our prayers whether the answer is “yes”, “no”, or “wait”.

“I do not believe there is such a thing in the history of God’s eternal kingdom as a right prayer, offered in the right spirit, that remains forever unanswered.”  Theodore L. Cuyler

“I, the Lord, am its keeper.  I water it ever moment so that no one will damage it.  I guard it night and day.”  Isaiah 27:3

I am not much on confrontation, and I usually try to keep the peace whenever possible, but last Saturday a situation arose which challenged my normal peaceful personality.

I arrived to my usual water aerobics class to find the instructor a little befuddled, and a lone swimmer occupying a lane that normally belongs to the class.  The class has the pool from 9-10 every morning Monday-Saturday, and everyone (we thought) knows that.  It seems that this guy refused to leave the pool and told the instructor that with only five people in the class, he would continue to swim!  The Nerve!!

More people arrived for class, and the instructor approached the swimmer to let him know that he would have to leave.  The guy began to argue with her, and shortly, the situation escalated.  We were all shocked, and a little concerned. During the exchange, I noticed a huge man enter the area and walk over to the hot tub, but he didn’t say a word – he only got in and watched.  The swimmer continued to argue as the rest of us were looking for assistance from the staff there, but no one was acknowledging us.  As I looked for help, I saw the man in the hot tub silently keeping watch.  In a moment, he said, “Dude, you are wrong.  Why don’t you just get out and leave the ladies alone?”  The swimmer ignored him and continued his anti mated protest.  By this time, staff members were making their way there.  The man in the hot tub never moved in a threatening way, but he watched as if making sure we were all okay.  He was ready if we couldn’t handle it.  Finally, the swimmer gave up and left!

I like to think of Jesus in that light.  He is always there watching, but he has given us the gifts to handle our situations in life.  He will offer His help, but He never forces His will on us.  We have to choose to accept it or reject it.  Whatever our choice, He is always there watching, waiting, and protecting.  As we enter this Advent season and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, I pray we will be aware of the Watchman!

“I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free;  for His eye is on the sparrow; and I know He watches me.”  His Eye Is On the Sparrow

Picture is of Chief and Manning – watch dogs extraordinaire!