Hello, Everyone.
I'm sorry I haven't posted lately! I've been feeling sorta "blah". Maybe I can post something of interest tomorrow.
In the midst of my ups and downs, I have had the Lord encouraging me. Whether by an uplifting e- mail or a surprise package in the mail (we'll never forget it, Kristy!), the Lord is always with us. He is not only with us in "Spirit", but He often manifests Himself in real, tangible - and Divine - ways.
Thank you, Lord. I sure couldn't get along down here without You.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Some Tips for Emotional Stability
As a woman, I understand all too well what it feels like to ride the "roller coaster" of human emotions. Up one minute, down the next. I know that true joy is based on Jesus, and happiness is based on happenings. Sometimes, however, I only look at the happenings of life. Needless to say, they aren't always happy happenings. Have you noticed that people can disappoint? Jesus never disappoints.(We may be disappointed in the answers He gives us, but He always knows what's best for us.) People can lie, Jesus never lies. People forget about you, Jesus never forgets you. People will remember, and remind you, of your past sin. Once forgiven, Jesus will never remember it, nor remind us. (I John 1:9 and Ps.103:12)
We are all still robed in flesh, and as a woman, I fight my emotions more than anything else. I fight being impatient with people, mostly my kids! I fight the feeling of telling someone what I think of _________(whatever). I fight being selfish, unforgiving, depressed, discouraged, and the list goes on and on.
This past Sunday, Terry and I had Satan on our backs, it seemed. We were let down by, you guessed it, people! Right before our evening services, Terry realized that our neighbor boy had locked our van that afternoon while playing with the kids. The problem was that our only set of keys was in that van. Thankfully, the car happens to be running right now, we used it to get to church. But what a bummer for Terry right before he was to stand and preach God's Word! The list could go on. Sunday was just not a good day for "happenings".
I'm reminded, however, that my life is not lived for events, but for people. Yes, those people that "disappoint" and "forget".More specifically, for a Person. I live my life each day trusting that He will care for me, guide me and even correct me when I need it.
As I arrived home to my less-than-spotless living room, and faced the mountains of laundry and the five hungry people waiting to be fed, I wanted to cry. I was so lonely and discouraged. I wanted to wallow in it. The Holy Spirit said to me, as I mentally rattled off all the people that I knew so I could call and whine to them, that I didn't need to be consoled by "people". I remembered 1 Sam. 30:6 And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God. (David had people problems too!)
I thought to myself "Yeah, ya wimp. Why can't you just encourage yourself, huh?" So I did! I started singing "Wings as Eagles" by Ron Hamilton (Patch the Pirate). Boy! Did it do the trick! My heart truly did sore as I sang the second verse:
Let us run the race with patience, Let us lay each weight aside,
Looking only unto Jesus, He will be our faithful guide.
He has run the race before us, He has won the victor's crown,
And He calls to every Christian "Follow me, to higher ground!"
That last part really encouraged me! In my mind, I could see Him smiling and motioning for me to keep climbing up that mountain of discouragement. The view from the top is wonderful, but it's a lot of work to get there. I can't control people, but I can control ME!
Now, I would be struck dead right now at this computer if I told you that "Now, I'm ALWAYS on top side!" (smiling broadly with a sparkle in my eye) So, I won't tell you that. I'll tell you, that since Sunday night, I've been down again and again. I can also tell you though, that I don't stay down.
Here are some tips that have helped me this week, and in weeks past, as I have dealt with loneliness, discouragement and even some depression now and then.
1. Stay in your Bible. Don't neglect your walk with God even though it seems the heavens are brass and your prayers are led- and I have felt that way at times! Keep going. He has promised to never leave us or forsake us. Heb.13:5. Claim those precious promises. God always keeps His Word!
2. Refuse self-pity. I posted about this before, and I don't know how to link you to it. (If you want to read that post, it is under "2007" in my archives. It is entitled "Survival and Self Pity") It's an emotional death trap. If you give in to self-pity, it won't take 10 minutes before you feel you are the most troubled and forsaken person in the world. Fight it.
3. Exercise mind control. Yes, do control your mind. If you don't, your burdens will! Dwell on scripture, get busy on something that requires brain power. You know, don't do dishes or vacuum. Read, write, play an instrument.
4. Listen to good music or sermons. Do you have the Internet? (Okay, I guess so or you wouldn't be reading this!) Need I say more? There are hundreds, yea, thousands of sermons for free on the Internet. Check out http://www.sermonaudio.com/ or my personal fave, http://www.biblewaytexas.com/ for some great preaching.
5. Think about others. I can't get out of the house a lot because I have four young kiddos at home all the time. (I home school) But, I do try to call others and write notes to those who may need a lift. When I stop and think of others, it doesn't take long for me to see someone who has it harder than I do!
6. Do something. Don't give in to the desire to eat, lie down and watch TV. My Mom tutors kids in Algebra II. She also goes soul winning every week, teaches Sunday School, cleans a portion of the church, leads a ladies group, writes endless notes of encouragement to others...I'm sure I've left out something.The point is, she stays busy. If you aren't naturally busy, then get busy. How can we be worried or depressed if we're trying to hang curtains just right, or work on a scrapbook or clean out a closet or figure out what "y" equals?
7. Live by the same schedule everyday. This has been so important to me. I do the same things at the same time of day as much as I can. It's good for you to sleep the same number of hours, eat at the same time everyday, etc.
8. And one more: Laugh. Laughter is good medicine. So, do what I do when I need a laugh- go look in the mirror! It gets me everytime. If you aren't funny to look at, then laugh at someone who is...just kidding. Really, get out an "I Love Lucy" or an Andy Griffith and have a good laugh. It will do you, and your abs, good!
I wish I could say that I've always been upbeat and positive. I cannot. I wish I could say that I never give in to my flesh. Again, honesty forbids me to say this. I have learned that even when I fail Him, He is there. I feel like I've always let Him down.
Believe me, as a kid, the folks in my church did NOT look at me and say "Hey, there goes a future Pastor's Wife!" No way. I'm more shocked than anyone at the things God has allowed me to see and do. Yet, why does He put up with me? I don't know why! I am just so glad He does! I love my home Pastor, Bro. Ken Graham, so much. I hardly go through a day where some of his teaching doesn't come to mind. I often think of this quote that he used often: "I find it interesting that people think that after they get saved, they can live any way they want! That's not true. If I could live any way I wanted now that I'm saved, I'd never sin again." That's how I feel. I wish I'd never let anyone down, but I have. I wish I'd never been disloyal, hateful or impatient. But I have been all of those things before. I'm so thankful His forgiveness is endless!
If Jesus-sinless, perfect Jesus- can keep loving me, and letting me continue to breathe, after I've failed Him so much, then I - sinful, imperfect Valerie - should be able to forgive the people who have hurt me.
We are all still robed in flesh, and as a woman, I fight my emotions more than anything else. I fight being impatient with people, mostly my kids! I fight the feeling of telling someone what I think of _________(whatever). I fight being selfish, unforgiving, depressed, discouraged, and the list goes on and on.
This past Sunday, Terry and I had Satan on our backs, it seemed. We were let down by, you guessed it, people! Right before our evening services, Terry realized that our neighbor boy had locked our van that afternoon while playing with the kids. The problem was that our only set of keys was in that van. Thankfully, the car happens to be running right now, we used it to get to church. But what a bummer for Terry right before he was to stand and preach God's Word! The list could go on. Sunday was just not a good day for "happenings".
I'm reminded, however, that my life is not lived for events, but for people. Yes, those people that "disappoint" and "forget".More specifically, for a Person. I live my life each day trusting that He will care for me, guide me and even correct me when I need it.
As I arrived home to my less-than-spotless living room, and faced the mountains of laundry and the five hungry people waiting to be fed, I wanted to cry. I was so lonely and discouraged. I wanted to wallow in it. The Holy Spirit said to me, as I mentally rattled off all the people that I knew so I could call and whine to them, that I didn't need to be consoled by "people". I remembered 1 Sam. 30:6 And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God. (David had people problems too!)
I thought to myself "Yeah, ya wimp. Why can't you just encourage yourself, huh?" So I did! I started singing "Wings as Eagles" by Ron Hamilton (Patch the Pirate). Boy! Did it do the trick! My heart truly did sore as I sang the second verse:
Let us run the race with patience, Let us lay each weight aside,
Looking only unto Jesus, He will be our faithful guide.
He has run the race before us, He has won the victor's crown,
And He calls to every Christian "Follow me, to higher ground!"
That last part really encouraged me! In my mind, I could see Him smiling and motioning for me to keep climbing up that mountain of discouragement. The view from the top is wonderful, but it's a lot of work to get there. I can't control people, but I can control ME!
Now, I would be struck dead right now at this computer if I told you that "Now, I'm ALWAYS on top side!" (smiling broadly with a sparkle in my eye) So, I won't tell you that. I'll tell you, that since Sunday night, I've been down again and again. I can also tell you though, that I don't stay down.
Here are some tips that have helped me this week, and in weeks past, as I have dealt with loneliness, discouragement and even some depression now and then.
1. Stay in your Bible. Don't neglect your walk with God even though it seems the heavens are brass and your prayers are led- and I have felt that way at times! Keep going. He has promised to never leave us or forsake us. Heb.13:5. Claim those precious promises. God always keeps His Word!
2. Refuse self-pity. I posted about this before, and I don't know how to link you to it. (If you want to read that post, it is under "2007" in my archives. It is entitled "Survival and Self Pity") It's an emotional death trap. If you give in to self-pity, it won't take 10 minutes before you feel you are the most troubled and forsaken person in the world. Fight it.
3. Exercise mind control. Yes, do control your mind. If you don't, your burdens will! Dwell on scripture, get busy on something that requires brain power. You know, don't do dishes or vacuum. Read, write, play an instrument.
4. Listen to good music or sermons. Do you have the Internet? (Okay, I guess so or you wouldn't be reading this!) Need I say more? There are hundreds, yea, thousands of sermons for free on the Internet. Check out http://www.sermonaudio.com/ or my personal fave, http://www.biblewaytexas.com/ for some great preaching.
5. Think about others. I can't get out of the house a lot because I have four young kiddos at home all the time. (I home school) But, I do try to call others and write notes to those who may need a lift. When I stop and think of others, it doesn't take long for me to see someone who has it harder than I do!
6. Do something. Don't give in to the desire to eat, lie down and watch TV. My Mom tutors kids in Algebra II. She also goes soul winning every week, teaches Sunday School, cleans a portion of the church, leads a ladies group, writes endless notes of encouragement to others...I'm sure I've left out something.The point is, she stays busy. If you aren't naturally busy, then get busy. How can we be worried or depressed if we're trying to hang curtains just right, or work on a scrapbook or clean out a closet or figure out what "y" equals?
7. Live by the same schedule everyday. This has been so important to me. I do the same things at the same time of day as much as I can. It's good for you to sleep the same number of hours, eat at the same time everyday, etc.
8. And one more: Laugh. Laughter is good medicine. So, do what I do when I need a laugh- go look in the mirror! It gets me everytime. If you aren't funny to look at, then laugh at someone who is...just kidding. Really, get out an "I Love Lucy" or an Andy Griffith and have a good laugh. It will do you, and your abs, good!
I wish I could say that I've always been upbeat and positive. I cannot. I wish I could say that I never give in to my flesh. Again, honesty forbids me to say this. I have learned that even when I fail Him, He is there. I feel like I've always let Him down.
Believe me, as a kid, the folks in my church did NOT look at me and say "Hey, there goes a future Pastor's Wife!" No way. I'm more shocked than anyone at the things God has allowed me to see and do. Yet, why does He put up with me? I don't know why! I am just so glad He does! I love my home Pastor, Bro. Ken Graham, so much. I hardly go through a day where some of his teaching doesn't come to mind. I often think of this quote that he used often: "I find it interesting that people think that after they get saved, they can live any way they want! That's not true. If I could live any way I wanted now that I'm saved, I'd never sin again." That's how I feel. I wish I'd never let anyone down, but I have. I wish I'd never been disloyal, hateful or impatient. But I have been all of those things before. I'm so thankful His forgiveness is endless!
If Jesus-sinless, perfect Jesus- can keep loving me, and letting me continue to breathe, after I've failed Him so much, then I - sinful, imperfect Valerie - should be able to forgive the people who have hurt me.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Friday Fun
Need a laugh? Okay, maybe it's just a chuckle. I thought you might enjoy this photo Terry took of me when we were at the Wax Museum in San Antonio for our anniversary. (I know, not very romantic. But we had to do something when we found out the River Walk was being cleaned!)
I bet you never knew I was on Oprah, huh?
Happy Friday Everyone!
I bet you never knew I was on Oprah, huh?
Happy Friday Everyone!Thursday, February 21, 2008
Why I Love Him
Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. Luke 7:47
I was (and still am) a very strong willed person. My Dad said I had a "one track mind". I've been known as "argumentative". I also have a tendency to nag. I really have to watch it. I know you all are sitting there thinking, "I never deal with these things in my life." I am so happy for you! You must live a very peaceful life. I am high strung and there are times when my life is anything but peaceful!
I got lots of spankings as a kid. I got more than my older brother and sister combined! When I was very little, most of the spankings I got were because I refused to obey. As I grew, the spankings were because I said things that hurt people. I spoke without thinking! It is easy to deduce from looking back at my childhood that my two main faults were being stubborn, and talking too much.
The Bible says these things are sin.
1 Sam. 15:23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry...
Prov.10:19 In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.
As I grew and received punishment for my wrong doing, and lots of talking, I came to a point where I had to accept the fact that yes, I was doing these things. I had to stop arguing and swallow my pride. I've had to apologize to a lot of people over the years, and it's never easy. After I go to someone, and they forgive me, I feel sweet relief! When I came to Jesus, and begged His forgiveness, I felt that wonderful, sweet relief. I wanted a relationship with Him because of the life I had seen my parents live. They loved me in spite of all my shortcomings, and I knew Jesus did too.
I am very glad that I messed up all those years. I know that sounds strange. I'm not glad that I hurt people at all! I'm just so glad that I can look back and see where He's brought me from. No, I haven't arrived. I'm still stubborn - sometimes - and I still talk a lot - most of the time- but I'm so much better. Why the change? Because of Jesus! I hurt Him so much, yet He forgave me! He's forgotten it. He loves me, in spite of all my faults.
I wanted a relationship with the Lord as a child because of my parents' testimony. I want a relationship with Him today because of my own. I can say from experience that He keeps His word.
I love Him so much, because He forgave me so much!
I was (and still am) a very strong willed person. My Dad said I had a "one track mind". I've been known as "argumentative". I also have a tendency to nag. I really have to watch it. I know you all are sitting there thinking, "I never deal with these things in my life." I am so happy for you! You must live a very peaceful life. I am high strung and there are times when my life is anything but peaceful!
I got lots of spankings as a kid. I got more than my older brother and sister combined! When I was very little, most of the spankings I got were because I refused to obey. As I grew, the spankings were because I said things that hurt people. I spoke without thinking! It is easy to deduce from looking back at my childhood that my two main faults were being stubborn, and talking too much.
The Bible says these things are sin.
1 Sam. 15:23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry...
Prov.10:19 In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.
As I grew and received punishment for my wrong doing, and lots of talking, I came to a point where I had to accept the fact that yes, I was doing these things. I had to stop arguing and swallow my pride. I've had to apologize to a lot of people over the years, and it's never easy. After I go to someone, and they forgive me, I feel sweet relief! When I came to Jesus, and begged His forgiveness, I felt that wonderful, sweet relief. I wanted a relationship with Him because of the life I had seen my parents live. They loved me in spite of all my shortcomings, and I knew Jesus did too.
I am very glad that I messed up all those years. I know that sounds strange. I'm not glad that I hurt people at all! I'm just so glad that I can look back and see where He's brought me from. No, I haven't arrived. I'm still stubborn - sometimes - and I still talk a lot - most of the time- but I'm so much better. Why the change? Because of Jesus! I hurt Him so much, yet He forgave me! He's forgotten it. He loves me, in spite of all my faults.
I wanted a relationship with the Lord as a child because of my parents' testimony. I want a relationship with Him today because of my own. I can say from experience that He keeps His word.
I love Him so much, because He forgave me so much!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Thank You, Kristy!
We had an awesome surprise today! We got a FedEx package from the Rowell family today! Now, I've met Bro. Mike Rowell, many moons ago! But I've never met his wife, Kristy. I found her blog on the Internet after my husband found Mike's blog. I had just started blogging, and we started chatting back and forth. Today, the FedEx man delivered us a box from them! No one could imagine what was in the package!
Here are some photos:
Dad opening our surprise gift!
All the kids got sacks of goodies like this one.
Inside we found candy bags for the kids, a coffe cup for me with some yummy little cookies, a candy bar for Terry and the best mini muffins you've ever tasted! (Chocolate and Banana Chip!) She wrote us a very kind note - just the encouragment that I needed! She put Fun Dip in the goody bags, and my kids had never eaten Fun Dip before! What a great day they had. It came at just the right time of day, too! We had just finished lunch! Here's a thank you video my kids made. Mitchell is still a little hoarse! Bless his heart! (I meant to say "thank you" too on the video, but I got so carried away with helping the kids say thank you that I turned it off without saying it at all! Sorry! Please know that I'm sending you a HUGE "thank you" too Kristy! I don't deserve a friend like you, that's for sure. I do hope we can meet sometime in the future!)
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Basham Family Fun Day!
We took a holiday on President's Day and explored the Inks Lake State Park. My in-laws stayed with the two youngest kiddos so they could get their naps in, and the rest of us headed out for a hike! It was so nice. We hiked along the Pecan Flats Trail at Ink Lake State Park. Here's a little photo-journal of our hike.
Lauren with the cacti!
Okay, that's ME with the ever present prickly pear cacti. We saw lots of patches of them. They grow quite abundantly.
Not sure what kind of grass this is, but you can see that a child could easily get lost in it. No, ours didn't! :o)
This is the Falkenstien Wedding Castle. I zoomed in as far as I could, and it's still just a speck! You can't tour it, unfortunately, but we've looked at it closer up on other expeditions. It is amazingly huge!
Ever had mesquite BBQ? Well, here's the tree that it is flavored from! These are everywhere also.
The kids on top of the rock!!
I made it, too!
The view from the top of the rock. (Inks Lake)
Another view ~
Terry tossing a rock into the Lake. It was very peaceful out in the woods! The splash from the rock sounded loud!
Here's Mitch by the Lake.
He's balancing on a tree trunk! He had so much fun running and climbing on this trail.
Spanish Bayonet. VERY SHARP! Of course, nearly everything out here will poke, pinch, sting or bite you! :o)
MISTLETOE! And it's not even close to Christmas!
These are the lovely (I say sarcastically) Cedar trees that pollinate in DECEMBER and leave us with terrible allergy trouble! It is nice to see some green in an otherwise brown world! :o)
We found this very tall rock and Terry couldn't wait to see the view from there!
The kids made it, too!
Hello up there!
I couldn't get to the top of the rock, but close enough!
The view from the high rock.
Yet another view...
Inks Lake.
Lauren taking a rest from the hike...now we're getting tired!
The campsite area of Inks Lake.
Inks Lake, or the "Lake of Shining Waters", to quote Anne of Green Gables!
We enjoyed our little getaway so much. Inks Lake is only 10 minutes away, but we hadn't been! Some of the greatest beauty, and fun, are truly in our backyards! After the cold weather, sickness and injuries, it was a gift from the Lord to be able to get away and enjoy ourselves, and God's creation. We're going to try to go back when everything is bursting out in various shades of green and our gorgious wildflowers are in bloom!
Lauren with the cacti!
Okay, that's ME with the ever present prickly pear cacti. We saw lots of patches of them. They grow quite abundantly.
Not sure what kind of grass this is, but you can see that a child could easily get lost in it. No, ours didn't! :o)
This is the Falkenstien Wedding Castle. I zoomed in as far as I could, and it's still just a speck! You can't tour it, unfortunately, but we've looked at it closer up on other expeditions. It is amazingly huge!
Ever had mesquite BBQ? Well, here's the tree that it is flavored from! These are everywhere also.
The kids on top of the rock!!
I made it, too!
The view from the top of the rock. (Inks Lake)
Another view ~
Terry tossing a rock into the Lake. It was very peaceful out in the woods! The splash from the rock sounded loud!
Here's Mitch by the Lake.
He's balancing on a tree trunk! He had so much fun running and climbing on this trail.
Spanish Bayonet. VERY SHARP! Of course, nearly everything out here will poke, pinch, sting or bite you! :o)
MISTLETOE! And it's not even close to Christmas!
These are the lovely (I say sarcastically) Cedar trees that pollinate in DECEMBER and leave us with terrible allergy trouble! It is nice to see some green in an otherwise brown world! :o)
We found this very tall rock and Terry couldn't wait to see the view from there!
The kids made it, too!
Hello up there!
I couldn't get to the top of the rock, but close enough!
The view from the high rock.
Yet another view...
Inks Lake.
Lauren taking a rest from the hike...now we're getting tired!
The campsite area of Inks Lake.
Inks Lake, or the "Lake of Shining Waters", to quote Anne of Green Gables!
We enjoyed our little getaway so much. Inks Lake is only 10 minutes away, but we hadn't been! Some of the greatest beauty, and fun, are truly in our backyards! After the cold weather, sickness and injuries, it was a gift from the Lord to be able to get away and enjoy ourselves, and God's creation. We're going to try to go back when everything is bursting out in various shades of green and our gorgious wildflowers are in bloom!
Friday, February 15, 2008
The Best Part About Keeping a Blog is...
...posting photos of my kids on it! Here's a little photo-journal of the kids from this week.
Right before Lauren came blindly into the house, led by her brother's hand, I snapped this photo of Leslie. She had just fallen asleep on Mitch's bed "reading"!
Laci is my smiling girl. She also loves her baby! (I love mine, too!)
Off to play!
Here's a picture of Lauren's poor eye. I told her to make this face so I could see the eye better. Her pupil was dilated and you can see her red cheek (where the stick hit first) and red eye. The eye doctor said that her eye healed more than expected just overnight. That's the Lord! He's so good to us! 
Through all the pain, my sweet girl kept smiling. She's a joy to us. She got saved in September of 2005. I believe she is saved because of her tender heart. When she does wrong, she comes to me and Terry in tears to apologize. She listens closely during Terry's preaching. She loves her younger brother and sisters. She's a hard worker in school. She has pledged some money -$1 a week - to missions. She doesn't even get an allowance, but we've seen God provide her missions money- and then some- for January and February. I'm so glad she is already getting to see God's love for her at age eight!
Psalm 127:3
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
I am so blessed...
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Happy Valentine's Day From Valerie
I'd like to wish you all a happy Valentine's Day!! This is one of my favorite holidays. It sounds a lot like my name, and I love being associated with, well, LOVE!
Thank you all for your friendship and prayers for my family. It's been a very hectic week, but the Lord has taken care of us through it all. He has blessed beyond measure. The Lord's love is there for me everyday of my life. I am so thankful that I am not only saved, but that I know Him closely. When things started falling apart yesterday, I knew He was there with me, for I had already talked with Him that day. As I fought worry, I felt Him offer reassurance. When I was afraid, He calmed my fears.
He's so wonderful. I love the words to this song, which is based on a Jewish poem.
(This was sung at my wedding, too!)
The Love of God
Could we with ink the ocean fill and were the sky of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill, and every man a scribe by trade
To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry
Nor could the scroll contain the whole though stretched from sky to sky.
Oh love of God! How rich and pure,
How measureless and strong!
It shall forever more endure
The saints' and angels' song.
Here's one of my Dad's and Mom's favorite songs...and mine too! :o)
When in darkness Jesus found me
Touched my eyes and made me see,
Broke sins chains that long had bound me
Gave me life and liberty
O Glorious love of Christ my Lord divine!
That made Him stoop to save a soul like mine.
For all my days and then in Heav'n above,
My song will silence never, I'll worship Him forever
And praise Him for His Glorious love!
Who needs today's modern "Christian" music? Not I! I'll take the ones written by holy men of old! These songs proclaim how I feel in my heart! God's love is so great, it reached even me! He had to bend way, way down to get me, but He did it. I'm so grateful that I have a loving, merciful and LONG SUFFERING Saviour! Do you know Christ's love in your own life first hand? If not, then click here. You'll never regret falling in love with Jesus. What a perfect way to spend Valentine's Day! Getting to meet the One who loves you more than anyone else in the entire universe.
Have a wonderful day ~
Thank you all for your friendship and prayers for my family. It's been a very hectic week, but the Lord has taken care of us through it all. He has blessed beyond measure. The Lord's love is there for me everyday of my life. I am so thankful that I am not only saved, but that I know Him closely. When things started falling apart yesterday, I knew He was there with me, for I had already talked with Him that day. As I fought worry, I felt Him offer reassurance. When I was afraid, He calmed my fears.
He's so wonderful. I love the words to this song, which is based on a Jewish poem.
(This was sung at my wedding, too!)
The Love of God
Could we with ink the ocean fill and were the sky of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill, and every man a scribe by trade
To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry
Nor could the scroll contain the whole though stretched from sky to sky.
Oh love of God! How rich and pure,
How measureless and strong!
It shall forever more endure
The saints' and angels' song.
Here's one of my Dad's and Mom's favorite songs...and mine too! :o)
O Glorious Love
John W. PetersonWhen in darkness Jesus found me
Touched my eyes and made me see,
Broke sins chains that long had bound me
Gave me life and liberty
O Glorious love of Christ my Lord divine!
That made Him stoop to save a soul like mine.
For all my days and then in Heav'n above,
My song will silence never, I'll worship Him forever
And praise Him for His Glorious love!
Who needs today's modern "Christian" music? Not I! I'll take the ones written by holy men of old! These songs proclaim how I feel in my heart! God's love is so great, it reached even me! He had to bend way, way down to get me, but He did it. I'm so grateful that I have a loving, merciful and LONG SUFFERING Saviour! Do you know Christ's love in your own life first hand? If not, then click here. You'll never regret falling in love with Jesus. What a perfect way to spend Valentine's Day! Getting to meet the One who loves you more than anyone else in the entire universe.
Have a wonderful day ~
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Prayer Does Work!
Isaiah 65:24 And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.
THIS VERSE IS TRUE!
It is 2:14 Central time now and I just received a call from Terry. Lauren did scratch her eye starting at the base of the eyeball and going up through the cornea. The doctor thinks it will heal, but is concerned about infection getting inside the eye. She called in antibiotics for her, dilated her pupils and placed a medicated contact on the hurt eye. Lauren will go in tomorrow at 1:30 to have the contact removed and be checked again. Terry said they placed dye on her eye and looked at it under ultra-violet light. When they did this, the scratch was clearly visible to him and he said it was very large. I'm so thankful she got immediate attention!
When we called, the doctor was about to leave, but she waited just to see Lauren. We've never met her before, but I can tell you that God had her there. He took such good care of us. Through this experience I can say only one thing for sure: "I need Thee, Oh, I need Thee. Ev'ry hour I need Thee." We do not know what each day holds, but we know the One who can guide us safely through the rough waters we might face.
Thank you for your prayers... they were answered!
THIS VERSE IS TRUE!
It is 2:14 Central time now and I just received a call from Terry. Lauren did scratch her eye starting at the base of the eyeball and going up through the cornea. The doctor thinks it will heal, but is concerned about infection getting inside the eye. She called in antibiotics for her, dilated her pupils and placed a medicated contact on the hurt eye. Lauren will go in tomorrow at 1:30 to have the contact removed and be checked again. Terry said they placed dye on her eye and looked at it under ultra-violet light. When they did this, the scratch was clearly visible to him and he said it was very large. I'm so thankful she got immediate attention!
When we called, the doctor was about to leave, but she waited just to see Lauren. We've never met her before, but I can tell you that God had her there. He took such good care of us. Through this experience I can say only one thing for sure: "I need Thee, Oh, I need Thee. Ev'ry hour I need Thee." We do not know what each day holds, but we know the One who can guide us safely through the rough waters we might face.
Thank you for your prayers... they were answered!
Calling All Friends...
Right now it is 1:36 Central time. Terry has just taken Lauren, our oldest, to the eye doctor. She has scratched her eye ball with a stick. The scratch is visible to us, but we do not know if it will heal or what. When we called the eye doctor, he wanted to see her right away. I don't know who will be reading this, but I believe God will draw those to see this that He would like to pray for us. Can you please pray for her eye? I would appreciate it so much.
I will post an update as soon as one becomes available.
I'm so thankful that I can reach out to you across the country through the Internet. I'm thankful Terry was home and could take her to the doctor right away. I'm thankful for His arms of comfort around me as I sit alone typing this and trying not to worry.
Thank you so much for being my friend in deed...
Valerie
I will post an update as soon as one becomes available.
I'm so thankful that I can reach out to you across the country through the Internet. I'm thankful Terry was home and could take her to the doctor right away. I'm thankful for His arms of comfort around me as I sit alone typing this and trying not to worry.
Thank you so much for being my friend in deed...
Valerie
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
The View From Here
It's been a crazy week, and it's only TUESDAY! We started it off on Sunday night by taking Mitch to the ER. He was coughing up blood and not breathing well. The doctor said that the croup he had the week before had masked the symptoms of Strep throat and a bronchial infection! Wonder where he could've gotten that??? ;) Anyway, the doctor started him on Amoxicillan and said he'd be better in two days. That would be today. He was still having trouble breathing yesterday and again today, so back to the ER we went. The doctor said he needed an albuterol - or fast acting inhaler. I have allergy induced asthma, which means my asthma flairs up when I inhale something I'm allergic to, like pollen. Recently diesel fuel caused me to have attack! I hope this clears up his trouble. I also went to the dentist today to see about finishing up the teeth that got root canals (affectionately referred to as #30 and #31). He is re-doing the one that already had a crown for FREE!! Praise the Lord! I am also getting a $250 discount on the other one! I am so thankful!
I love the view from my dentist's office. Here's a photo I took as I was pulling out of the parking lot. It's a small - very small - sample of the scenery here in the Hill country. I'll be sure and post photos of the bluebonnets this spring, if we get any.
A view from the Dentist's office.
I thought this was hilarious! It made a bummer of a week seem not too bad!
Here's Mitch at the ER. We were killing time!
Here's a photo I snapped on the way home from Llano. You should see it in the spring!! Gorgeous!
I'm so glad that even during the days when I wish I were somewhere else, doing something else, I can look out at the beauty - and the laughs - that surround me and be content with the view from here! :o)
I love the view from my dentist's office. Here's a photo I took as I was pulling out of the parking lot. It's a small - very small - sample of the scenery here in the Hill country. I'll be sure and post photos of the bluebonnets this spring, if we get any.
A view from the Dentist's office.
Take a good look at he blue car. Not too great, right? Now look at the bumper sticker that is on it in the next photo.
I thought this was hilarious! It made a bummer of a week seem not too bad!
Here's Mitch at the ER. We were killing time!
Here's a photo I snapped on the way home from Llano. You should see it in the spring!! Gorgeous!I'm so glad that even during the days when I wish I were somewhere else, doing something else, I can look out at the beauty - and the laughs - that surround me and be content with the view from here! :o)
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Some Inspiration
Do you need encouragement to keep witnessing for the Lord? Then look no further! This video is compelling. You know not how the Lord is taking what you think to be small efforts at witnessing, and multiplying them beyond your wildest dreams.This video was a great inspiration to me to keep sharing the Gospel with everyone I possibly can! Let us all keep going! Let us hold His banner high and tell the world of Jesus' redeeming love!!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Lord, I Need You!
John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
Have you ever told the Lord about someone else's faults? I have, many times! After all, it is better to complain to the Lord than to take it out on your family or upon the one with whom you are irritated! Well, today, I was giving the Lord an "earful" of what I thought about a certain situation. I told Him how it was clear to me just who was at fault in that situation. After this, I went on my merry way, feeling much satisfaction after my time of "unloading" upon the Lord.
Well, it wasn't long after my prayer time that the Lord reminded me that this year I was trying to lay aside pride...and that I had just picked it up and carried it forth happily. I was so ashamed. Later, my husband (without knowledge of my prayer time diatribe) pointed out an area in which I had done the exact same thing as the person I was "lining out" to God earlier.
The Lord scolded me sharply within my heart. He brought to mind the verse above, especially the last line: for without me, ye can do nothing. That's the long and short of it. Without Him, I can not achieve any good thing. Without His giving me a clear mind, I could not form these words that I am writing in my mind, much less type them! Without His giving me strength, I could not even rise from my bed each morning. I cannot persuade the folks in my town to come to Christ, I can only tell them that there is a way to Heaven through Christ. The Holy Spirit does the real work. I want the Holy Spirit upon my life so that He can work easliy through me. It isn't up to me to "save" people - though at times I do act as though it all depended upon me! Do not misunderstand - I am fully aware that we, as born again believers, have a responsibility to tell any who will listen about Jesus' gift. But without HIM I cannot even do that!
This has changed my prayer life. I do not want to habitually read off names mindlessly to my Lord, nor do I want to be known to Him as a complainer. I want to come before Him realizing fully that I need Him, for without His help, how can I raise children who are like Him? Without Him, how can I be a wife that would be an ornament to my husband? Again, I ask, how can I do anything? The answer - I cannot. I am reminded today that I need Him. I want my prayer to be from this day forward, "Lord, I need You! In all I do, think, say, desire - I need You."
Have you ever told the Lord about someone else's faults? I have, many times! After all, it is better to complain to the Lord than to take it out on your family or upon the one with whom you are irritated! Well, today, I was giving the Lord an "earful" of what I thought about a certain situation. I told Him how it was clear to me just who was at fault in that situation. After this, I went on my merry way, feeling much satisfaction after my time of "unloading" upon the Lord.
Well, it wasn't long after my prayer time that the Lord reminded me that this year I was trying to lay aside pride...and that I had just picked it up and carried it forth happily. I was so ashamed. Later, my husband (without knowledge of my prayer time diatribe) pointed out an area in which I had done the exact same thing as the person I was "lining out" to God earlier.
The Lord scolded me sharply within my heart. He brought to mind the verse above, especially the last line: for without me, ye can do nothing. That's the long and short of it. Without Him, I can not achieve any good thing. Without His giving me a clear mind, I could not form these words that I am writing in my mind, much less type them! Without His giving me strength, I could not even rise from my bed each morning. I cannot persuade the folks in my town to come to Christ, I can only tell them that there is a way to Heaven through Christ. The Holy Spirit does the real work. I want the Holy Spirit upon my life so that He can work easliy through me. It isn't up to me to "save" people - though at times I do act as though it all depended upon me! Do not misunderstand - I am fully aware that we, as born again believers, have a responsibility to tell any who will listen about Jesus' gift. But without HIM I cannot even do that!
This has changed my prayer life. I do not want to habitually read off names mindlessly to my Lord, nor do I want to be known to Him as a complainer. I want to come before Him realizing fully that I need Him, for without His help, how can I raise children who are like Him? Without Him, how can I be a wife that would be an ornament to my husband? Again, I ask, how can I do anything? The answer - I cannot. I am reminded today that I need Him. I want my prayer to be from this day forward, "Lord, I need You! In all I do, think, say, desire - I need You."
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Church is Better than a Root Canal!
I do not understand why some people do not want to come to church. There are times when I invite a stranger to come visit my church, and they look at me like they'd rather have a root canal...
Oh, and speaking of root canals, mine are through finally. Let me tell you - I'd rather spend a lifetime in church than ever have another one!
I have a wonderful Endodontist (that's a dentist who only does root canals all day every day - yes, he's very busy). But no matter how nice they are, they are still having to do something for which no personality could ever compensate. On my first visit,[see my archives: Dec.31,2007] I went to him in pain, and left feeling sweet relief. This time, I went in without pain, and left miserable. This visit he had to put in a real filling in my tooth, the last one was just temporary. Well, I have never been punched in the jaw - thank goodness- but I would imagine that if I ever was, I'd feel the way I do now. My whole head hurts. My teeth really hurt. Will I ever have pain free teeth again?
I'm sorry I didn't get pics of this exciting procedure, I just couldn't do it. It'd be great if I did! For 1 1/2 hours I couldn't say anything!! I had a rubber dam in my mouth (it wraps around the tooth that he's working on and protects your mouth from the debris created by his work) and it is very uncomfortable. I was so miserable that when they stepped out of the room for a minute, I thought about just "hulking out": turning green, ripping the rubber dam out of my mouth, and then growling as I stared at them and ran out of the building. But...I thought better of it. Honestly folks, it wasn't fun. I did survive the claustrophobia brought on by having a piece of rubber in my mouth and people crowding over me and placing various and sundry tools in my face. Boy, did I breath a sigh of relief when it was over.
I came home and Mitch was still sick and Leslie and Laci were cranky because they still feel rotten. I was done for the day. I got supper, had the kids bathed and was in bed by 8:30.
I had better go take care of all the little sick ones - and take a big dose of Vicadin myself (relax, I'm just kidding) and get busy.
The next time you invite someone to church and they look at you like they'd rather have a root canal, just smile and say "Hey, it's painless...really!" (I ought to know!)
Oh, and speaking of root canals, mine are through finally. Let me tell you - I'd rather spend a lifetime in church than ever have another one!
I have a wonderful Endodontist (that's a dentist who only does root canals all day every day - yes, he's very busy). But no matter how nice they are, they are still having to do something for which no personality could ever compensate. On my first visit,[see my archives: Dec.31,2007] I went to him in pain, and left feeling sweet relief. This time, I went in without pain, and left miserable. This visit he had to put in a real filling in my tooth, the last one was just temporary. Well, I have never been punched in the jaw - thank goodness- but I would imagine that if I ever was, I'd feel the way I do now. My whole head hurts. My teeth really hurt. Will I ever have pain free teeth again?
I'm sorry I didn't get pics of this exciting procedure, I just couldn't do it. It'd be great if I did! For 1 1/2 hours I couldn't say anything!! I had a rubber dam in my mouth (it wraps around the tooth that he's working on and protects your mouth from the debris created by his work) and it is very uncomfortable. I was so miserable that when they stepped out of the room for a minute, I thought about just "hulking out": turning green, ripping the rubber dam out of my mouth, and then growling as I stared at them and ran out of the building. But...I thought better of it. Honestly folks, it wasn't fun. I did survive the claustrophobia brought on by having a piece of rubber in my mouth and people crowding over me and placing various and sundry tools in my face. Boy, did I breath a sigh of relief when it was over.
I came home and Mitch was still sick and Leslie and Laci were cranky because they still feel rotten. I was done for the day. I got supper, had the kids bathed and was in bed by 8:30.
I had better go take care of all the little sick ones - and take a big dose of Vicadin myself (relax, I'm just kidding) and get busy.
The next time you invite someone to church and they look at you like they'd rather have a root canal, just smile and say "Hey, it's painless...really!" (I ought to know!)
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Now It's Laci's Turn...
Now, Laci is running a high fever!! I guess it's her turn now. The doctor just called in some antibiotics for her, too. It is such a blessing not to have to take them in to the office for an appointment - to be exposed to even more germs!! Anyway, please pray for her - and me! :0)
I have to go back to my endodontist today so he can finish up the rest of my root canals...yeah, it's gonna be a fun day!!! Oh, and Mitch just got up with a fever...oh boy.
Hope you all are enjoying the blessing of God in your lives. I am thankful that He's right there for all the ups, and downs of life!
Until tomorrow~
Valerie
I have to go back to my endodontist today so he can finish up the rest of my root canals...yeah, it's gonna be a fun day!!! Oh, and Mitch just got up with a fever...oh boy.Hope you all are enjoying the blessing of God in your lives. I am thankful that He's right there for all the ups, and downs of life!
Until tomorrow~
Valerie
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Happy Birthday To You...
I'd like to wish my sweet nephew, Andrew, a Happy 8th Birthday!
He lives aaallll the way in North Carolina, so I do not get to see him very much. I hope you can feel my love across the miles today, Andrew!!!! I'm so sorry that your card is late...you should get it on Tuesday, if the post office doesn't let me down! :o)
Have a wonderful day!!
Love,
Aunt Valerie