Thank you, Lord

photo credit

Blessings,

     Ellen

Charlie Brown's Christmas Message

Merry Christmas!

Blessings,

     Ellen

Happy Thanksgiving!

"Now, our God, we give You thanks,

and praise your glorious name."

~ 1 Chronicles 29.13

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances,

for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

~ 1 Thessalonians 5.16-18

"Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name;
make known among the nations what he has done."

~ Psalm 105:1

Thank you, God, for everything,
The big things and the small.
For "every good gift comes from God"...
The giver of them all.

And all too often we accept, without any thanks or praise,
The gifts God sends as blessings, each day in many ways.
And so at this Thanksgiving Time, we offer up a prayer...
To thank you, God, for giving us a lot more than our share.

First, thank you for the little things
That often come our way,
The things we take for granted
But don't mention when we pray,
The unexpected courtesy, the thoughtful, kindly deed,
A hand reached out to help us in the time of sudden need.
Oh, make us more aware, dear God, of little daily graces
That come to us with "sweet surprise"
From never-dreamed-of places.

Then, thank you for the "Miracles"
We are much too blind to see,
And give us new awareness of our many gifts from Thee,
And help us to remember that the Key of Life and Living
Is to make each prayer a Prayer of Thanks
And every day Thanksgiving

--Helen Steiner Rice

Blessings,

     Ellen

Women of Faith 2011

"God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!"

Ephesians 3:20 (MSG)

This past weekend was amazing!  Not only did I have the privilege of attending the Women of Faith Imagine conference, but I attended it with my beautiful daughter Melissa.

How can you worship God in an arena filled with 8,000 women (and some men) and not be changed?  God and His redeeming work was so evident in the speakers' lives as well as our own.

Our weekend started out fuzzy....

and ended clearly...

The speakers' shared their faith walk through some very tough, dark times including depression, loss of a newborn, and a husband's critical illness.  Yet, God proved faithful in their darkest moments.  If God was faithful to them, why not me?  I was filled with God's love and forgiveness in different areas of my own life.  Thank you Women of Faith speakers for being open and vulnerable and for sharing your stories!

One of the verses discussed was Galatians 6.4-5...

"Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct." (NLT)

Wow, I didn't know this was in the Bible!  How many times (a day) do I compare myself or one of my family members to other people?  I need to rest in the knowledge that GOD gave each of us our own work to do - not someone else's.  This verse is next in line for Bible memory!

A few pictures...

Me and Lisa Harper

I can't wait to read her book Stumbling Into Grace!

Luci Swindoll, Angie Smith, Lisa Harper,

Sheila Walsh, and Nicole Johnson dancing to

Mary Mary (on stage)

and the Praise and Worship team... terrific as always!

Melissa and I...

If you have a chance to attend a Women of Faith event, make every effort to go.  You will be so richly blessed by the music, speakers, and thousands of your closest girlfriends!

Blessings,

     Ellen

How Great Thou Art

Good morning... Let's start our day off with praise to our God and King!



    

Advent Reflections 2010

Day 1 – God promised his people that He would send the Messiah, the Anointed One, to save them.  Isaiah 7.14, 9.6-7

Day 2 – God’s timing is always perfect; He knew the perfect time to send JESUS, the Messiah, into the world.  Galatians 4.4

Day 3 – “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners – of whom I, Ellen, am the worst.”  1 Timothy 1.14-16

Day 4 – Remember that Christmas is a time to share our blessings and become generous, honest, cheerful givers.  “…it is more blessed to give than receive.”   Acts 20.35

Day 5 – Jesus has come to live among us.  I am to live each day knowing that Jesus was physically present in my home, always.  Revelation 21.3

Day 6 – As a believer, I am God’s servant.  He can do anything You want with me.  Luke 1.28-30, 47-49, 54-55

Day 7 – Name Him Jesus (Yeshua in Hebrew) which means “the Lord saves.”  Luke 1.31, Matthew 1.20-21, Philippians 2.10-11

Day 8 – Jesus is the One and only Son of God.  Luke 1.31-33, 1 Samuel 7.12-13, 16

Day 9 – The Holy Spirit brings life to our dead, innermost places when we accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.  Luke 1.35, John 6.63

Day 10 – The Holy Spirit helps us recognize Jesus; and when we do, we jump for joy!  Luke 1:41-44

Day 11 – I need to magnify the Lord by having higher, larger, and truer thoughts of God.  This means humbling myself before Him.  Luke 1.46-48 and Psalm 34.3, “Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together.”

Day 12 – Jesus-born of ordinary parents, from an obscure little town, a teacher-not a conquering king – Our Savior.  God uses simple, ordinary things and people to accomplish His work in the world.  Micah 5.2, 4

Day 13 – Just as God sent John the Baptist to prepare the way for Jesus; we, too, need to prepare our hearts to welcome Jesus in a fresh, new way this Advent season.  Isaiah 40.3, Mark 1.4, Luke 1.17

Day 14 – When Joseph and Mary arrived in Bethlehem for the mandatory census, all the rooms were taken.  Jesus, the Son of God, was born in a stable and laid to rest in a manger.  I need to make room in my heart, my thoughts, and my time/schedule for Jesus to enter in.  Luke 2.1-20

Day 15 – After Jesus was born, He was wrapped in strips of cloth – swaddling clothes- the clothing of the humble and lowly.  I need to be clothed in humility daily.  Luke 2.7, Colossians 3.12, 1 Peter 3.3-4

Day 16 – Jesus’ birth brings JOY to all who accepts Him as Lord and Savior.  Luke 2.9-11, 20; John 15.10-11

Day 17 – God’s glory is revealed in the birth and life of Jesus Christ.  Luke 2.9, 2 Corinthians 4.6

Day 18 – God sent not one, but a host of angels, to announce the birth of His son – the Prince of Peace.  Luke 2.13-14

Day 19 – Christ became poor to open the door to God’s riches---- salvation.  Christmas is about giving, not getting.  What are you giving this season?  2 Corinthians 8.9

Day 20 – The shepherds went to Bethlehem to see what the angels told them.  They left the stable believing in Jesus and sharing the good news!  Luke 2.15-17

Day 21 – On Jesus’ birthday we come and give ourselves and our worship to Him with great JOY!  Matthew 2.1-2, 10

Day 22 – Jesus was born to die for my sins.  When the kings came to worship Him, they brought gold (gift for a king), frankincense (grain offering pleasing to God), and myrrh (to be used when He died).  Isaiah 60.3, 6; Matthew 2.11

Day 23 – Jesus saved me from my slavery to sin.  HE is my Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.  Isaiah 9.6-7

Day 24 – A virgin will conceive from the Holy Ghost so the child she bears will be holy, and will be called the Son of God.  Isaiah 7.14, Matthew 1.18-25, Luke 1.26-38

Day 25 – Jesus is born!  Micah 5.2, Matthew2.1-12, Luke 1-20

God's Extravagant Generosity

Romans 11.33-36

(The Message)

God's Extravagant Generosity


 

"Have you ever come on anything quite like this extravagant generosity of God, this deep, deep wisdom? It's way over our heads. We'll never figure it out.

Is there anyone around who can explain God?

Anyone smart enough to tell him what to do?

Anyone who has done him such a huge favor

that God has to ask his advice?

Everything comes from him;

Everything happens through him;

Everything ends up in him.

Always glory! Always praise!

Yes. Yes. Yes."

What a convicting piece of scripture.  I was introduced to this translation at the Women of Faith conference last weekend.  The conference centered around Romans 11.33a focusing on the 'extravagant generosity of God.'  Since this translation was new to me, I looked up the same verse (Rom. 11.33a) in NASB, which state, "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God..."

I have been meditating on the "extravagant generosity of God."  God sprinkles blessing on us without asking  us for anything in return.  Or does He?  We are to be the hands and feet of Jesus, His Son, loving all the people He has put on our path.  Am I doing this?  Unfortunately, no. 

The verses go on reiterating God's sovereignty in all things.  Really, who am I to think I know more than the God of the universe?  Even though there are times I don't understand what God is doing in my life, I must trust and believe that He is who He says He is. He will accomplish what He will in my life with or without my help.  I can look back over my life and see where God has truly brought beauty from the ashes of my life.  Thank you GOD!

The section of scripture ends with reminders of who God is... our Provider, the source of all things (including me), and He rules the world with perfect wisdom, justice, and love.  In all things, we are to bring glory to Him.  Praise the Lord! 

Ellen

This Post is linked to Mustard Seed Planting. 

Women of Faith

"Have you ever come on anything quite like this extravagant generosity of God...?"  ~ Romans 11.33

God loves us more than we know. He gives us more than we can ask or dream. He's unrestrained... excessive... outrageous... Over the Top.

This past weekend I had the privilege of going to the Women of Faith Conference in NC with my mom and sister.  We had a great time being together and hearing God through the amazing speakers.  What a refreshing time for us as a group and for me personally.  What would God have me hear in my heart?  Are there changes in my very near future present?  What have I withheld from God?



Patsy Clairmont



 Patsy Clairmont was able to speak to all the moms who have prayed for God to heal their child.  She shared the dark days last year when her adult son battled the H1N1 flu to the point of coma.  By God's grace, he is alive today, but still fights chronic pain.  She is witty, hilarious and is transparent in her love for GOD.  From Patsy I was reminded to TRUST God in everything, not just what I think I can't handle.





The Chapmans







Mary Beth Chapman really spoke to my  mother's heart as she shared the devastating loss of her daughter last year.  My parents buried my brother in 1986; Dad had a very hard time after his death.  Steven Curtis Chapman and his band gave a concert... WOW!





Lisa Welchel



Lisa Welchel described her challenge in forming lasting adult friendships.  During the time most teenagers learn about healthy friendships, she was filming The Facts of Life.  All of her "friendships" were written in by the writers.  So when she became an adult, she didn't know how to reach out to others and form healthy, safe friendships.  She reminded us all how important our girlfriends/moms/sisters are to our overall well-being.  From Lisa I was reminded how important our girlfriends are!  They are confidants, encouragers, truth-tellers, and accountability partners.



Sandi Patty



 Sandi Patty moved us not only with her beautiful singing voice, but also with her testimony.  Her voice is unmatched; it leaves you breathless.  She even "signs" some of her songs with and for the hearing impaired.  She shared her struggle with weight throughout her life.  I had no trouble relating to her story.  Her courage to undergo GI surgery and talk about it give me the courage to try the weight-loss thing one more time.  Thanks, Patty!



Marilyn Meberg regaled us with her wit, laughter, honesty, and such wonderful Biblical insights.  She walked us through issues that are holding us back from a 'vibrant relationship with God.'  We were challenged to invite God into our dark places and give our cares/fears/guilt/shame to Him.  She is one of my favorite speakers because she brings her teaching down to my level!  You  have to realize, she has 2 Master Degrees behind her name!



Anita Renfroe



My all-time favorite is Anita Renfroe.. Need I say more!  Christian, comedian, mother, wife (pastor's), singer.. all rolled into one fun-filled lady!  I have 3 DVD's and when I'm feeling down, I'll put them in and laugh all over again.  Her insights into human nature are amazing and she doesn't shy away from the hard issues like.... mammograms, caffeine, and underwire!  She is my all-time pick-me-up!

Dramas are always life-changing. Deborah Winans' were no different. She touched on the issue of abortion and the need for counseling. She opened the door for those experiencing the loss of a child by abortion to seek help and healing. Her other skit touched on our desires to get our way, anyway we can. We put our "hook" in others to get them to do our bidding. A timely reminder especially while raising 3 teenagers!



I have looked forward to the Women of Faith Conferences each year because I was able to spend time with just my mom.  This year, my sister was able to join us.  We were away from all our daily activies and stress and had a ball!  I wonder what next year will bring!

Ellen





God has smiled down on me!

Can  you say Happy Dance?

Since Saturday, I have enjoyed many blessings.  I have danced the "happy dance" six times now!  Why?  I hoped you would ask...

Happy Dance #1 - My front brake work was FREE on Saturday.  I was 150 miles from the end of the warranty period with brakes squealing so bad I had to get to the shop.  So, new brakes on the front of the van.. did I say FREE!

Happy Dance #2 - I have the best husband in the world.. just celebrated 18 wonderful years! We are celebrating with dinner at Blue Orleans on Wednesday night!

Happy Dance #3 - I received the Women of Faith tickets for their November conference today in the mail.  I am going with my mom and sister --- girl time!

Happy Dance #4 - Michael and I had a smooth transition to new World Geography program Around the World in 180 Days!

Happy Dance #5 - Lifeway had the student book for Around the World in 180 Days!

Happy Dance #6 - Today has been a GREAT Monday! Introduced new US History program (US History Through Our Country's Presidents) to Matthew and Melissa.  It is a go! Actually heard, "It sounds like fun!"

God is so good!  It has been a very stressful and overwhelming couple of weeks.  Thank you, LORD!

Praise and Prayer all rolled up into one

Yearly physicals...  yuck.  Sometimes I am much worse than my kids.  Maybe you are like me.  You procrastinate going to the doctor for the full physical for numerous reasons.  Mine were: "I don't have insurance and the bill would be astronomical, I don't have the time, or... I'm perfectly fine as long as I don't know what may be wrong with me!"

Over 10 months ago I purchased a 'Complete Physical' for $30 during a silent auction.  The physical would normally have cost $250.  I can tell you that I lost the sheet and that is why I waited too long, but that wouldn't be exactly true.  The sheet stayed in my in-box with the home school work, so, at least every couple of weeks, I saw it (and buried it again).

Well, I finally had my very overdue physical last Friday.  Here is the breakdown---

  Praises

     1.  Physical went fine, nothing found.

     2.  EKG was good.

     3.  Not diabetic (FBS was normal)

     4.  Nice doctor and office staff

     5.  All blood work, etc came back normal except...

  Prayer Requests

     1.  Triglycerides were off the chart

          (Normal: 11-150, Me: 698)

     2.  Cholesterol was at the high for normal

          (Normal: 175-200, Me: 199)

     3.  LDL (BAD)  High/Above normal

          (Normal: 0-129, Me: 172)

     4.  HDL (Good) was too low

          (Normal 40-131, Me: 27)

The doctor called in some medication to deal with the high triglycerides.  As of yet, I have not picked it up.  (No, I'm not procratinating on this.) 

After researching online last night, it seems my diet and lack of exercise is a contributing factor.  A diet high in sugar is a major factor.  I love my sweet decaf iced tea and flavored hot coffees.  Also, since I'm a tad overweight, this is also making the problem worse.  I understand the lack of exercise isn't helping.  I really think blogging and facebooking should be considered an Olympic sport.  Really, we put in a lot of 'practice' and time on them!

I'm awaiting a call from the doctor this afternoon before picking  up the medication.  I would like to know if it is too late to try to bring down the triglycerides naturally (diet changes and increase exercise) without the medication.  I don't want to put my health at anymore risk, but would rather NOT be on medications.

Please keep me in your prayers as these decisions are made.  I especially covet your prayers in the DIET modification and WEIGHT loss area.  Per the doctor, if I lose 20-25 pounds, I lose all health risks due to weight.

Thanks!

The Body of Christ is Amazing!

I know it isn't Thursday, but today I was so humbled and overwhelmed by the love of friends.  The real estate business has been unusually slow and we have had to use our savings and other monies to keep the bills paid.  Yesterday I had an impromptu conversation with a good friend about gardening, couponing, shopping, bills, teens, schooling, etc.  It was great catching up with her as it had been a couple of months.

This morning, her and her husband brought us at least 2 weeks of groceries!  How humbling is that!  Rod and I were both speechless and grateful.  In Acts 2.42-45 we learn about true fellowship of believers in Christ.  Acts 2.45b states, "they gave to anyone as he had need."  These wonderful friends of ours are living and breathing God's Word in their lives.  We are the recipients of Jesus' love through them!

God Bless our friends now and always!

Tax Day... need I say more!

Today is Tax Day 2010.  Just the thought of having to sift through tax laws, paperwork, paperwork, paperwork, and receipts is enough to suck the joy out of life.  BUT....

I am thankful for my husband who works tirelessy as a realtor to support our family.

I am thankful that his income is enough to see us through.

I am thankful to those who pray for us and our real estate business.

P.S. ~ Rod, I love you and thanks for all you do!

Do not fear, for I (God) am with you..

It has been a rollercoaster of a week.  I had been monitoring a lump in my b***** for about a month and decided it wasn't going away or getting any smaller; I needed to see the doctor and have further tests.  I informed my wonderful husband before church Sunday morning.  Needless to say, he was taken completely by surprise. 

I saw my doctor on Thursday morning and had my mammogram and ultrasound that afternoon.  By God's great mercy and grace, both tests came back "normal." 

For all the women who have walked this path before me, I applaud you.  It isn't easy to acknowledge a lump and then have to call it by name.  The fear is overwhelming.  I kept mentally singing the song from Isaiah 43 (You are Mine).  "Do not fear, for I (God) am with you; I have called you by name, you are Mine...."

I am thankful for...

~  the ability to get a new car
~  more family time since our major commitments have come to an end
~  for my husband who loves me unconditionally
~  driving with my teens and Mom to Atlanta so they can page for the State of Georgia Senate

What are you thankful for today?