Mountain Prayer

Lord, I’ve never moved a mountain and I guess I never will.
All the faith that I could muster wouldn’t move a small ant hill.
Yet I’ll tell you, Lord, I’m grateful for the joy of knowing Thee,
And for all the mountain moving down through life You’ve done for me.

When I needed help you lifted me from the depths of great despair.
And when burdens, pains and sorrow have been more than I can bear,
You have always been my courage to restore life’s troubled sea,
And to move these little mountains that have looked so big to me.

Many times when I’ve had problems, and when bills I’ve had to pay,
And the worries and the heartaches just kept mounting every day,
Lord, I don’t know how you did it. Can’t explain the where’s or why’s.
All I know, I’ve seen these mountains turn to blessings in disguise.

No, I’ve never moved a mountain, for my faith is far too small.
Yet, I thank you, Lord of Heaven, you have always heard my call.
And as long as there are mountains in my life, I’ll have no fear,
For the mountain-moving Jesus is my strength and always near.

The Twenty “Cans” of Success

1. Why should I say I CAN’T when the Bible says I can do all things through Christ who gives me the strength (Philippians 4:13)?

2. Why should I WORRY about my needs when I know that God will take care of all my needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19)?

3. Why should I FEAR when the Bible says God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, of love and a sound mind (II Timothy 1)?

4. Why should I LACK FAITH to live for Christ when God has given me plenty of faith (Romans 12:3)?

5. Why should I BE WEARY when the Bible says that the Lord is the strength of my life, and that I will display strength and take action because I know God (Psalm 27:1; Daniel 11:32)?

6. Why should I ALLOW SATAN CONTROL over my life when He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world (I John 4.4.)?

7. Why should I ACCEPT DEFEAT when the Bible says that God always leads me in victory (II Corinthians 2:14)

8. Why should I LACK WISDOM when I know that Christ became wisdom to me from God and God gives wisdom to me generously when I ask Him for it (I Corinthians 1:30, James 1:5)

9. Why should I BE DEPRESSED when I can recall to mind God’s loving-kindness, compassion and faithfulness and I have hope in Him (Lamentations 3:21-23)?

10. Why should I WORRY and be upset when I can cast all my problems on Christ who cares for me (1Peter 5:7)

11. Why should I ever BE IN BONDAGE knowing that there is freedom where the Spirit of the Lord is (Galatians 5:1)

12. Why should I FEEL CONDEMNED when the Bible says I won’t be condemned because I am in Christ (Romans 8:1)?

13. Why should I FEEL ALONE when Jesus said He is with me always and He will never leave me or forsake me (Matthew 28:20 Hebrews 13:5)?

14. Why should I FEEL LIKE I AM CURSED or have bad luck when the Bible says that Christ rescued me from the curse of the law that I might receive His Spirit (Galatians 3:13, 14)

15. Why should I BE UNHAPPY when I, like Paul, can learn to be satisfied in all kinds of conditions (Philippians 4:11)?

16. Why should I FEEL WORTHLESS when Christ became sin for me so that I might become acceptable to God (2 Corinthians 5:21)?

17. Why should I FEEL THAT OTHERS ARE OUT TO GET ME when I know that nobody can be against me when God is for me (Romans 8:31)?

18. Why should I BE CONFUSED when God is the author of peace and He gives me knowledge through His Spirit who lives in me (I Corinthians 2:12; 14:33)?

19. Why should I FEEL LIKE A FAILURE when I am a conqueror in all things through Christ (Romans 8:37)

20. Why should I LET THE PRESSURES OF LIFE BOTHER ME when I can take courage knowing that Jesus has overcome the world and it’s problems (John 16:33)?

In world of chaos and confusion all around us today, I am so glad that I don't have to depend on this world for peace, but that I have peace that only comes from knowing Jesus!

3 Weeks Down~~3 to Go

I am officially at the half way mark since I had my hysterectomy, and I know many of you have been waiting for an update...so here goes.

I am continuing to make progress, but it does seem a little like one step forward, two steps back. I will have a day where I feel really good, and then a couple of days where I don't feel so great. From everything I have read, that is normal. Each week I am definitely feeling stronger though, and just have to remind myself to not do too much too soon.

I have been going out for a walk each day, and love that! Just getting some fresh air, and seeing the mountains each morning, is enough to nourish my soul. My body keeps me in check, and I definitely hurt if I start to do too much. I am still needing to rest a lot and sleep some every day.

It has felt much like spring here, and the birds have been chirping. I saw a red Robin this morning on my walk, and it reminded me of the verse in Matthew 6:26-27 "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?"

What are your worries or concerns today? Remember to put your trust in God! He cares so much for you, and He will take care of you! Leave it in His hands....don't let the worries of tomorrow be added to the burdens of today. Take one day at a time, one step at a time.

The Legend of Saint Valentine

The story of Valentine's Day begins in the third century with an oppressive Roman emperor and a humble Christian martyr. The emperor was Claudius II Gothicus. The Christian was Valentinus.

Claudius had ordered all Romans to worship state religion's idols, and he had made it a crime punishable by death to associate with Christians. But Valentinus was dedicated to the ideals of Christ, and not even the threat of death could keep him from practicing his beliefs.

During the last weeks of Valentinus's life a remarkable thing happened. One day a jailer for the Emperor of Rome knocked at Valentinus's door clutching his blind daughter in his arms. He had learned of Valentinus's medical and spiritual healing abilities, and appealed to Valentinus to treat his daughter's blindness. She had been blind since birth. Valentinus knew that her condition would be difficult to treat but he gave the man his word he would do his best. The little girl was examined, given an ointment for her eyes and a series of re-visits were scheduled.

Seeing that he was a man of learning, the jailer asked whether his daughter, Julia, might also be brought to Valentinus for lessons. Julia was a pretty young girl with a quick mind. Valentinus read stories of Rome's history to her. He described the world of nature to her. He taught her arithmetic and told her about GOD. She saw the world through his eyes, trusted in his wisdom, and found comfort in his quiet strength.

"Valentinus, does GOD really hear our prayers?" Julia said one day. "Yes, my child, He hears each one, "he replied.

"Do you know what I pray for every morning and every night? I pray that I might see. I want so much to see everything you've told me about!"

"GOD does what is best for us if we will believe in HIM," Valentinus said.

"Oh, Valentinus, I do believe," Julia said intensely. "I do." She knelt and grasped his hand. They sat quietly together, each praying.

Several weeks passed and the girl's sight was not restored. Yet the man and his daughter never wavered in their faith and returned each week.

Then one day, Valentinus received a visit from Roman soldiers who arrested him, destroyed his medicines and admonished him for his religious beliefs. When the little girl's father learned of his arrest and imprisonment, he wanted to intervene but there was nothing he could do.

On the eve of his death, Valentinus wrote a last note to Julia - knowing his execution was imminent. Valentinus asked the jailer for a paper, pen and ink. He quickly jotted a farewell note and handed it to the jailer to give to his blind daughter. He urged her to stay close to GOD, and he signed it "From Your Valentine." His sentence was carried out the next day, February 14, 270 A.D., near a gate that was later named Porta Valentini in his memory.

When the jailer went home, he was greeted by his little girl. The little girl opened the note and discovered a yellow crocus inside. The message said, "From your Valentine." As the little girl looked down upon the crocus that spilled into her palm she saw brilliant colors for the first time in her life! The girl's eyesight was restored! A miracle!

He was buried at what is now the Church of Praxedes in Rome. It is said that Julia herself planted a pink-blossomed almond tree near his grave. Today, the almond tree remains a symbol of abiding love and friendship. In 496 Pope Gelasius I named February 14 as Saint Valentine's Day. On each Valentine's Day, messages of affection, love and devotion are still exchanged around the world.

Happy Valentine's Day to all my Friends!

10 Reasons Why Working From Home Is Awesome!

This is what my schedule has looked like working from home the past couple of weeks while I have been recovering from surgery!

On a more serious note....below is truly why I like to work from home.....


1. Surrounded By People I Love
I have the best coworkers. My husband and my children are the people who share my day with me.

2. I Profit From My Hard Work
I work hard and then play hard...take a walk, go for a hike, meet my hubby for lunch, etc. All of the money I make from my hard work goes straight into my checking account.

3. I Can Wear What I Want
Slippers, pajamas,( I've been wearing these a lot lately since recovering from surgery) fuzzy socks or jeans and sweatshirts. It’s my choice.
4. No Commute
With gas prices being as high and crazy drivers running rampant on the road I am happy to avoid the commute!

5. No Dog Eat Dog Atmosphere
I do not like the office politics or gossip. There are no worries about that since I work for myself and have a very positive atmosphere where I am working with like-minded people!

6. Rewarding
I can promote myself through my efforts, and earn bonuses, and not have to wait in hopes that someday soon a boss will promote me!
7. Work When I Want
I can take an early lunch, stop working early or work as late as I want.

8. Work Where I Want
I can take my laptop to the coffee shop, (Starbuck's is my favorite) work at my desk or work from my sofa.

9. Tax Write Offs
Working from home as a self employed person gives me all kinds of great tax write offs.

10. Getting It All Done
I can do laundry, run the dishwasher or even vacuum while I work, and not have to come home at the end of a long day and still have those things to do.

Have a fabulous day!

2 Week Post-Op Appointment

My doctor said that things look good and I am healing on schedule. I am still supposed to rest a lot, not lift anything, or do anything strenuous for 4 more weeks. (Yikes!)
I have been enjoying my time of reading and listening to CD's and Videos in between naps! I did venture out for a tiny little walk today as it was beautiful and the fresh air was great to take in.
Last week my sweet hubby took me to Starbucks, where we found a very soft chair for me to sit on, and I was able to enjoy a Cinnamon Dolce' Latte! (My favorite...and it wasn't too strenuous to lift that! LOL!) Of course after that big adventure I was pooped, so had to come home and rest again....but ohhhh it was worth it!

A "KEPT" Woman

I Am a 'Kept' Woman?
You see, there were a few times when I thought I would lose my mind,
But GOD kept me sane. (Isa. 26:3)
There were times when I thought I could go no longer,
But the LORD kept me moving. (Gen 28:15)
At times, I've wanted to lash out at those whom I felt had done me wrong,
But the LORD kept my mouth shut.. (Psa. 13)
Sometimes, I think the money just isn't enough,
But GOD has helped me to keep the lights on, the water on, the car paid, the house paid, etc.., (Matt. 6:25 -34)
When I thought I would fall, HE kept me up.
When I thought I was weak, HE kept me strong! (I Pet. 5:7, Matt. 11:28-30)
I could go on and on and on, but I'm sure you hear me!
I'm blessed to be 'kept'
Do you know a 'kept' woman?
If so pass it on to her to let her know she is 'Kept'
I'm "Kept" by the Love and Grace of God

Learning Contentment

I am still doing well, considering I just got home from the hospital one week ago today! I really am not in much pain, and so thankful for that! I just can't be up much without getting tired very quickly.

My biggest challenge is to not go stir crazy, as I am not someone who enjoys a lot of time doing nothing. I was ambitious yesterday and tried to walk a little ways up the sidewalk for a bit of fresh air, but I think I paid the price the rest of the day...so, no walk for me today!=) It's hard when I start feeling better, as it makes me think I can do more, but then I realize I can't.

There are so many times in our lives, where we think we can do more, and try to take things into our own hands instead of allowing God to work. It's when we realize that we can't do anything without putting our hands into God's hands, and letting Him lead the way that we are truly content.

The sweet picture above is of my two precious little cousins. It reminds me of how we need the Lord to guide us every step of the way, but also how we need each other to help us along this journey called life.

I am treasuring the down time I have right now while I am recovering, (even though I am restless at times) I am learning to be content in every single circumstance that comes my way. We can make every circumstance an opportunity to grow, or to complain. It's our choice.

Phil. 4:11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

I am so thankful for that promise, and have been learning what God has for me, and also praying for each one of you.

Choose to make today a day of contentment....no matter what your circumstance.

Good News!

I received a call from my Doctor's office on Friday, and my biopsy results came back clear! No cancer. We are all truly grateful, and know it's a result of so many of you lifting me up in prayer. I give all the glory to my Lord and Savior who has truly given me incredible peace throughout this entire ordeal!