To God be the Glory- Great things He has done!

So, I've been trying to put my thoughts together to write in my blog for about 6 months now, but it just wasn't happening. It wasn't happening because my brain was in cog mode, I couldn't put two thoughts together. I knew what I wanted to say, but my brain couldn't connect the dots.

Those of you that have MS like I do, completely understand. Those of you who don't have it, consider your aging and forgetful brain amplified by about 100. The thoughts are in there, but you just can't make an intelligent and thoughtful sentence, much less write your thoughts down for others to comprehend.

That all changed last Friday morning, went I had my 5th CCSVI venous angioplasty procedure in Chicago. I had my first one in August of 2010 in Tampa with my compassionate and caring interventional radiologist Dr. Bulent Arlsan. This is a man that knew nothing about CCSVI, but jumped right in and never looked back. He was willing to learn about something new and changed lives in the process.

Me and Dr. A a month after my first procedure in August 2010. 
We began working closely to coordinate the first 
Educational Seminar and Walk N Roll in Tampa to bring more awareness to CCSVI.

That first procedure changed my life forever. The "auto-immune" disease MS, which is what my neurologist told me it was, which had been so brutal to me over the years, had a reprieve for the first time since 1998 when I was diagnosed.  I could breathe for the first time in a while. It felt great.

I learned about CCSVI over the internet, particularly Facebook and a wonderful network of caring and compassionate MS friends and spouses lead by a tenacious and caring woman who husband was stricken by the disease, Joan Beal. Joan was convinced that there was more to MS that it being an auto-immune disease and did her homework, which thankfully led her to vascular surgeon, Dr. Paulo Zamboni, and his quest to help his ailing wife who was also stricken with this disease.

Long story short, CCSVI (Chronic CerebroSpinal Venous Insuffiency) was discovered and thousands and thousands of people all over the world with MS have benefitted from this simple, life changing out-patient surgery. Totally a God-Thing if you ask me, especially because I know Dr. Zamboni is a praying man and was asking God for the answer to help his ailing wife and boy did the Lord deliver!

CCSVI has been a real lifesaver for me. Suddenly my debilitating fatigue which had so crippled my life since my diagnosis was lifted. I could think again and I didn't have to lay down every 3 hours for a nap. I actually had a life again, as simplistic as that may sound to you. I jumped right in a began working closely with the CCSVI Alliance and those members who wanted to get the word out to the world. We had the first CCSVI Alliance Walk in Roll and Educational Seminar at Moffitt Cancer Center in the Spring of 2011 and were able to raise awareness and lots of money. That got us going.

                       
                                           Part of Arslan's Army, our team for the CCSVI Alliance Walk N Roll, Spring 2011

Over the course of the last 5 years, the CCSVI Alliance continues to grow and learn and has helped further research and educate MS patients and their families all over the world. www.ccsvi.org. Then the ISNVD (International Society of NeuroVascular Diseases) was also formed www.isnvd.org. to further research into the vascular components of diseases like MS, ALS and Alzhemiers. We are just on the cusp of learning so many things, and I thank God for Dr. Paulo Zamboni, and people like Joan Beal and Dr. David Hubbard, a neurologist and his wife Arlene, whose son was diagnosed with MS. They jumped on board early on and have spent the last 5 years of their life working to further educated others about the vascular component of MS. http://www.hubbardfoundation.org/

I have been blessed to be involved with many of the key players who sometimes risked their careers to step out of the box and look at this disease from a different angle. Unfortunately, most of the neurological community around the world still have their head in the sand when it comes to MS. They have claimed this disease, and believe it is theirs alone. After all, MS is quite a cash cow. A lifetime of visits to the neurologists, along with yearly tests, drugs and visits to the hospital for IV steroid treatments. I say shame on them for them not wanting to look at ANYTHING that might help their ailing patients. But it is what it is.

When I began having head crushing like my head is in a vice headaches about two months ago, I knew what it was and I knew where I had to go. I wanted to go to the doctor who knew me completely and one that I totally trusted. My wonderful and caring husband Steve and I flew up to Chicago to Rush University (where Dr. A. relocated to in January of 2012). This was my second time in Chicago and fifth time overall. I wouldn't trade any of them. The instant relief I have gotten when Dr. A. opens up my jugular veins has been totally worth it. I can live again for as long as the relief lasts. I'll just pray to the Lord that it lasts as long as possible this time. I have a lot of things I want to do for the Lord and for my family and my sweet Granddaughter Grace who is growing up way too fast! Please Jesus, keep me healthy so I can serve you!

                                                                Dr. A and me the day before my procedure last week,  11/12/15

                                                                       Rush University Hospital in Chicago

So I have to say a big thank you to Dr. A. and his wonderful and caring staff, many of whom remembered me from 2013. They made this whole experience smooth as silk. They were all totally professional and compassionate. It's amazing how so many in the medical field have the gift of mercy. It shows when they do their jobs, it shows in the way they handle their patients. It shows when they handle all the little details to make everything go smoothly for you, like Susanne helping get us into the Bowman Apartments right on the Rush Campus. Lower rates and we didn't have to go outside! Another thing that was totally ordered by God because it was freezing out there!

                                                           Our view of Chicago from our apartments on the Rush complex. 
  One more thing from this trip that was straight from the Lord. When we wanted to come home early because I was feeling so much better, I called United Airlines. Normally they charge $75.00 per person to change a fare if it's within 24 hours of the return flight. The wonderful and caring customer service representative told us that we could go home early free of charge because it was because of medical reasons. I knew that was straight from the Lord. Thank you Jesus for opening up that way!

When I look back at the journey I've had over the last 5 years with MS and CCSVI, I know that God was a big part of it. Any and all healing I have had has come because He directed me to the right doctor and He opened the doors open wide for me. No one else gets the credit, because He did it all! To Him be all the Praise and Glory!

When you have Jesus in your life, He takes care of everything for you. He opens the doors, you just have to walk through them. He directs your path, if you let Him lead. He takes care of every little detail if you allow Him to do that. His Word tells us that everything works together for those who love Him. All He wants in return is Thanks and Praise. Pretty simple, right? Give it a try, He won't let you down. No matter what's going on in your life, Jesus can change everything if you let him.

My verse for today:  
Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

My prayer for today:

Thank you Lord Jesus! Thank  you for a successful trip to Chicago. Thank you for Dr. Arslan and his skill and compassion.Thank you for opening up my veins so I can think again. Thank you for ordering the entire trip. I give you all the Praise the Glory....

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amen and Amen!

Russell is free at last!!

A week ago Saturday, our family lost a very dear friend. His name was Russell Solice and he and his amazing family touched our lives in so many ways since we met them when they moved into our neighborhood back in 1998.

Russell was a quadriplegic, confined mainly to his bed, lying flat on his back, since his tragic auto accident at the age of 17. Most quads live a life span of 12 years past their accident, Russell outlived them all and lived an amazing 31 years! God definitely used this man in so many powerful ways in the lives of thousands of friends and family.

I casually met him one day when he was out in his stick activated chair, directing his wife as she decorated their house to the hilt for Christmas. We became good friends and even closer after my diagnosis with MS. As the years went by and my MS disability increased, I found myself home bound much of the time, not able to drive anymore or get out and about like other able bodied people.

I did have a motorized scooter, and it quickly found its way to Russell's house. That is when Russell and I really became kindred spirits. If I was ever feeling down all I had to do was go see Russell. He always had a smile on his face, and no matter how he was feeling that day, he put aside his cares and always empathized with what other people were going through, always. He always wanted to know what was going on in your family and in your life. He truly cared about all of his friends.

I had never met anyone like Russell and probably never will. He was one unique individual. Highly intelligent, very compassionate and always involved in life through his connection to the world, his phone and his computer. He had friends all over the world, playing computer games Mafia Wars, Farmville, Candy Crush and Words with Friends, a Scrabble like electronic game. He was connected to everyone through his email account, and Facebook. Seemed like he ran the world from that computer!

My good buddy Russell

He was passionate his family, his many friends, about LSU, the New Orleans Saints and football in general and boy did that guy ever a great meal! Being a native of  Louisiana he preferred his food kicked up a notch as Emeril says. We cooked for him often and shared many meals together at their house and even toted meals up to share with him in the hospital. Our love of good food was one of the things that bonded our families together.

My talented cook, hubby Steve, would cook his favorite foods and I would pull up the rear baking his favorite goodies....homemade cookies, brownies or cupcakes.When we had handicap ramps installed at our home and he could finally get in here with his chair, he and his wife were able to share a meal at our place, which was really special. Russell was always so appreciative of everything you did for him. I'll never forget that about him. He lived his life with a thankful heart. Here was a man who had every reason to complain about his life, but he never did.

                              Steve and I with Russell after one of our meal visits with Russ at the hospital

                                    The gang at the hospital, me, our son Jordy, Russell and daughter Ashley


Russell was out and about as much as he could be. I can remember our youngest son Jordy saying how he and his neighborhood buddies used to go golfing and Russell rode right along with them on the local golf course. He just loved being with people and sharing their lives. Russell loved going out to eat, to church, to any kind of events that friends or family hosted. He had a regular Thursday evening Poker Night at his house. He loved games and he enjoyed his friends immensely. He enjoyed life his life as much as he possibly could considering his physical limitations.

Dinner at our home! Yummy...Steve, Dianne and Russell.

Always smiling, my sweet friend Russell.

Although he wasn't always a Christian, Russell was always seemingly carefree. He had a wonderful family and supportive wife. But, when he did finally find the Lord through a Pastor friend, it was then that Russell had a new purpose in life and became a phenomenal witness for Jesus Christ. No matter what was going on in his life, he was there for you, praying for you, encouraging you every step of the way, showing you the love of Jesus at every turn. Even though he was never able to use them himself, Russell was truly God's hands and feet here on this earth in a powerful way.  

       
He was in and out of the hospital many, many times over the years that I knew him, gravely ill so often and God always seemed to spare him and bring him back to us. I think it was because of his tremendous faith and unwavering spirit. I was sure that each time he pulled through it was because God still had work for him to do on this earth.  Jeremiah 29:11 tells us that God has a plan for each and every one of us and that was certainly true of my sweet friend Russell. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

His devoted wife Dianne was a force to be reckoned with in her own right. I admire her so much. She married a man, that was a total physical invalid and devoted herself to his care and well being. That is not an easy task by any stretch of the imagination. What a strong woman she is! She had two young children from previous marriages and when they got married they melded into this wonderful family with so much strength and courage. In many ways it was Dianne's tremendous fortitude that allowed Russell to carry on his warm and caring ministry for so many years.

                                                                 Russell and his love, Dianne

                                          The Solice Family. Russell will always remain in my heart.

When Dianne called me a week ago to say Russell was back in the hospital, this time in a coma, with pneumonia and on life support. He desperately needed our prayers, and Steve and I immediately joined the ranks of friends and family around the world praying for our friend. The call went out through social media and everyone who knew and loved this amazing soul, joined the ranks to support him.

Things quickly took a turn for the worse on Friday. With his fever spiking at 107 degrees, Russell was fading fast. His eyes were fixed and though he could move his head there wasn't much hope because he wasn't responding to anything the doctors were trying. Things from a human perspective indeed looked bleak. His doctors who had seen Russell pull through so many times from the edge of death were convinced this was the end. Dianne called in his family from New Orleans and his one step-daughter Mary who lived in Massachusetts. His family waited by his bedside to say goodbye.

When his sister Jackie and step daughter arrived on Friday and Saturday afternoon that is when things got interesting to say the least. They removed Russell from life support because the doctors thought he would easily be able to breathe on his own and be more comfortable. They waited and prayed.

God had other plans for the Solice Family. He wanted to reward his good and faithful servant and He did something that was truly miraculous!

Instead of slowing slipping away, in God's power, Russell pretty much came back to life and had 4 wonderful hours communicating, reminiscing and even joking with his family and the few close friends that were there. He was able to tell each of his loved ones that he loves him. He was joyous and even though he family was going to miss him terribly, they were joyous too because they knew he would finally be free from his broken earthly body. What a gift the Lord gave that family!

His sister told me those hours were some of the most wonderful ones hours she had spent with her brother since his accident 31 years earlier. After a time, the doctors were preparing to him move out of ICU and into a regular room again, saying the miracle man had done it again, cheating death.

That is when Russell began to breathe heavily and his lungs were starting to fill up with fluid. They knew that his time with them was indeed coming to an end. The group gathered and prayed him into God's Kingdom. They told him it was ok to go home, that they were going to be fine, And then he was gone with the biggest smile on his face. His sister said it was an ear to ear smile like she had never seen and this from a guy who was always smiling.

He was smiling because he was free for the first time in over 31 years.The shackles of his wheelchair were gone. His work was done on this earth.

Thank God Almighty, He's Free at Last!!

He was whole, he was standing tall. God had given him an amazing gift to be able to spend those precious moments his family one last time and now for the first time in 31 years my sweet friend is running the streets of gold in heaven. He's laughing and joking and enjoying time with his Mom and Dad who preceded him. He no doubt is enjoying her home cooked meals right now!

Matthew 25:21 "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! 

I'm gonna miss his sweet spirit and his sense of humor. Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend his memorial service because I already have plans to go see my granddaughter and celebrate her 1st birthday. But I will be there in spirit and I know his service will be the celebration of the century and it should be. He was a lot of fun and his service should celebrate all the wonderful attributes of this terrific man. He was one in a million and I'll never forget him or the way he made me feel. He was an angel here on earth. His obituary is attached below.

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/heraldtribune/obituary.aspx?n=russell-lee-solice&pid=175564289

God Speed good friend. See you on the other side and we can roller skate together!!

My verses for today are above in red.

My prayer for today:

Dear Heavenly Father:

Thank you for the life of my friend Russell. Thank you for his ministry that touched so many lives over the years. Thank you for using him to spread your love to the lost and hurting. It's hard to know your ways Lord. It's hard to understand why Russell was stricken at such a young age, but we believe in your providential care for each of us. You had a unique plan for Russell and used him for your purposes in your perfect timing.

Be with his family. Comfort them and surround them with your angels of mercy. Support them in the coming months and years. Protect them and uplift them as they continue Russell's legacy of love for all.

I pray,
Amen and Amen

God is still doing great things!

I've been very bothered by many of the recent things that are happening in our world, especially this past month or so. It's hard to imagine that these events would come to light in the United States of America, but I guess I shouldn't be surprised in the Godless society which we have become.

Things such as legalizing same sex marriage, something that is totally against the Word of God and a President who celebrates that by turning our White House into the colors of gay pride, the rainbow, which really represents the covenant between man and God. That is turned into something worldly and unsightly. I almost threw up when I saw this one.

                  Our President had the audacity to turn the Peoples House, into a gay pride celebration.

Then, the glorification and celebration by much of our confused world of a man turning himself into a woman through surgery (Bruce Jenner into Caitlyn Jenner). He first received a Olympic medal and then years later, he received an award for courage for doing something insanely sick and much of the world, including some delusional Christians, are applauding him for being "himself."

The organization Planned Parenthood being caught on tape clearly speaking callously and nonchalantly about harvesting fetal body parts for sale during the abortion process, (can God forgive us for ending over 60 millions lives through abortion?) God help us when we can talk about the taking of human life in such a casual manner. Just watch below.

http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/16/opinions/stanley-planned-parenthood-video/

Plus the continued downward spiral of our government and their lack of concern for our citizens at home (the four Marines and a Navy Sailor just murdered right here at home by a Muslim extremist, yet our President refuses to acknowledge that we are at war against these lunatics) and abroad by our President turning this country's back on Israel (God's chosen nation) through this Iran nuclear deal just signed...What will happen to our nation now? The Bible is clear. Genesis 12:3 says "I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you." Is God going to finally say enough with you America and finally turn his back on us?

It's all enough to send your head spinning. It seems that every day there is something new and it definitely seems like the world is falling apart and out of control. It's almost too much to take.

I throw my hands up and cry out to God. Where are you in all this Lord? I can't see you, Are you there??

Then I stop and seek His Face earnestly. I realize that in all this mess, He is there, just like He's always been. He knows exactly what is going to happen. It's all been preordained from the beginning of time and it will all turn out according to His purposes and plan. I just have to be quiet and Be Still and Know that He is God.

Then, just when you think you can't take anymore....Today, came the Sabbath, a definite God Day, was a day of revival, calming and peace. It turned everything around and put everything back into perspective..into God's perspective.

This morning we watched another uplifting service by Pastor John Hagee, live from Cornerstone Church in San Antonio Texas, www.getv.org with our dear friends Ted and Carol Smith, I was feeling inspired and encouraged. Just what I needed after a long, less than inspiring week of the world's problems. Pastor Hagee has a way of helping you realize that the God of the Universe is still in control, no matter what may be happening in Washington, DC. Thank you Lord for this respite from the worlds problems.

As I swam in the pool this afternoon with my sweet husband, we were listening to Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. We both had tears in our eyes as the songs played on from the Be Glad CD. This one song really got to me, as I thought about my life and all the great things that God has done for me over the years. the tears were streaming down my face. I realized something profound this afternoon.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyFqIBFfoG0

He has always been by my side every step of the way. He has put people in my life at just the right time to meet the particular need I may be going through. He has surrounded me and my wonderful husband with so many people who have lifted us and our family up in prayer over the years. When I really stopped and thought about the way He has orchestrated my life and each event of my life, I was overwhelmed. And it's not over yet. Not until the day He calls me home.

Has it always been easy? No. I have had my share of hardships to endure, like this chronic, debilitating and progressive disease, multiple sclerosis, that I have been living with for over 25 years now. But, we all have hardships to go through. Life isn't easy for any of us, that is for sure. But, boy, it is so much easier when you have the Creator of the Universe handling the controls of your life.

How could I ever doubt anything He puts His Hand to? Why should I worry about one little thing when I know that each and everyday He makes the sun to rise and set. He makes the birds to chirp, the beautiful flowers to bloom and the He knows the names of each star in the sky. Psalm 147:4 tells us "He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name."

He is still there and He is still doing great things. You just need to be tuned into His frequency to see His wonders all around you. If you are worried about tomorrow. Don't! The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is still on the Throne. What we can do in the meantime, while we wait on the Lord and his perfect timing, is to pray. Turn your Face to His, Seek Him in everything and everything we become clear.

Pray for revival. Pray for our leaders. Pray for the lost souls who don't know Jesus. Everything is going to be ALL RIGHT. God has it all under control. Praise His Holy Name!

My verses for today are above in red.

My prayer for today:

Lord Jesus, Heavenly Father,

Why do I ever doubt? Help me Lord to give it all to you. Give you all my fears and anxieties because I know that you are in control of everything and everyone.You are a God of New Beginnings, and you are a God who does Great Things everyday for those who love you.

Help me to be a witness for your love. Help me to reach out to others in the darkness to show them the way. Help me to be the Light that you want me to be in this confused and dark world. Satan abounds here Lord, Help me to shine your beacon for others to see. Let me be your hands and feet on this earth.

Amen and Amen

Our God does NOT Slumber, He's Watching...

Friday, June 26, 2015 was a momentous day in the history of the United States of America.

I wish I could say it was a joyous historical moment, but unfortunately, I believe that only the earnest prayers of America’s Godly people and a spiritual revival, will save our nation from His condemnation because of the decision that was rendered. It’s a slippery slope for sure, and only God knows the ending.

The Supreme Court, the highest court in our land, in a split decision 5/4, redefined marriage in this country making it legal for homosexuals to marry in all 50 states. Of course, if you believe like I do, no court or any judge in this country can put aside what God Almighty has ordained since the beginning of time. Marriage is between one man and one woman. Period. Matthew 19:5 says "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh."

The Supreme Court is just 9 individuals making a decision that shook the very foundation on which this great country was built: God, Faith, Family and Country. It seems that has been alot of support from the left, but there has also been alot of backlash from conservatives Christians who take the Bible and its teaching literally, like I do.  

"In one day, Supreme Court Chief Justice Roberts said in part of his dissent, the court has basically transformed the societal institution that has held together humanity for millennia.

"Who do we think we are?" he said. 

I totally agree? Who do we think we are...that we can change God's laws?

Our God does not slumber or sleep. He's got a front row seat in heaven to everything that is taking place. And the thing is, He is still in Control of all. God is watching, and God is still on His Throne. What an amazing comfort that is as everything around you seems to be swirling and out of control.

As expected, social media and the liberal press seems to be all for this! Equal rights for all, marriage should be for everybody. It doesn't matter who you love, you should be allowed to marry anyone you want without retribution. It's all about love they say.

And yes God does loves everybody. He is the Author and Creator of life. But he also detests sin and homosexuality is a sin according to His Word. So, God can love the person and not love the way they are acting. God hates all sin, not just homosexuality. We are all sinners and fall far short of the Glory of God. But God wants us to be vigilant and discerning in our lives. We are not to judge, but we are to point out sin when we see it and distance ourselves from it.

Matthew 7:15 says "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. Psalm 119:66 tells us "Teach me good discernment and knowledge, For I believe in Your commandments." And Matthew 7:17 says “Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.”

So, what are we to do, as Bible loving, devoted Christians?

PRAY! Pray for the lost souls that think it's ok to conduct themselves in this manner. Pray for our leaders who approved this aberrant behavior as being normal. God will be the judge of everyone and everything that has been done and seen. Pray that God will change their hearts and turn to Him before it is too late.

June 26, 2015 was a sad day in our country, but God is still in charge and God still sees everything that is happening and He knows the outcome.

He wants us to go out into this world at be salt and light. He doesn't want us to conform to the world, but to stand out and shine His light so that others others may see Him. 

Matthew 5:13-16 reminds us.... “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. 

Don't blend in with the world my friends. Stand out and be a shining light for Jesus. Remember this verse, 1st John 2:15 admonishes us "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them." 

It's not always easy to stand up for what's right in God's eyes. But just remember your reward is not in this world, your reward is in heaven. If you get discouraged just remember this verse....Romans 8:31 "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" If you belong to Jesus, everything is going to be just fine.

May He spare our nation as we seek to revive the very foundation on which this country was built. Please join me as I pray for the United States of America and all those who reside in it.

My verses for today are above in red

My prayer for today:

Dearest Heavenly Father,

It seems our world is turning upside down! It seems that way to us because many of the foundations we held to for so many years are being stripped away. But Lord, we know that you are still in control. We know that you are still on your Throne and know exactly what is going to happen. Turn their hearts of stone back to you Lord. Help us to reach out to those who are lost in your precious name. Help them to see you through us.

I pray,
Amen

Stand up for morality, Stand up for Jesus!

As many of you know, who follow me through this blog, or on facebook, my husband and I recently left our church of 30 years, There were many factors included in that decision, and I won't go details here, but I just wanted to share what's been happening since. God is still working on us!

In lieu of finding a new church to attend right now, we are listening and devoted to watching Pastor John Hagee through our Roku player on Sunday mornings at 9:30 am. Modern technology is truly amazing. We can sit in the privacy of our living room with a few friends, and watch Pastor Hagee's message LIVE from Cornerstone Church in San Antonio, TX.  I have to say that he and his worldwide ministry have blessed our family greatly. I may be missing my church friends on Sunday mornings, but I am NOT missing the message of God's Word and the music ministry which is coming through loud a clear every Sunday morning and for that I am eternally grateful. After all, isn't that what we go to church for anyway? To get close to God, to worship him to hear his message through a anointed minister? May God Bless Pastor John Hagee! We can also watch old sermons by going through the archives which are available through www.getv.org, as well. We often take advantage of that too, totally a God-Thing.

We were watching one of those older sermons the other evening, and Pastor Hagee made this statement;

"When was the last time you stood up for morality?" When was the last time you actually publicly took a stand against something you knew was wrong, something you knew was not of God?"

Isaiah 58:1 tells us "Cry aloud; do not hold back; lift up your voice like a trumpet; declare to my people their transgression, to the house of Jacob their sins."

Pastor encouraged every member of his congregation to stand up for what is right, what is good, and what is of God. He warned that too many Americans are just going with society's beat, not wanting to buck the system or the world and it's standards. He encouraged us to be the salt and light of this world. He said, as Christians, we are called to be that. I mean, after all, how are people going to know we are Christians if we agree with everything that the world throws at us? If we do that, we're just like everybody else, right?

Well, not for me--- I never want to be a blind sheep following along with the masses. I've been thinking about that and realized that thankfully, I do stand up for God, everyday through my social media posts. I am standing up against ABORTION, which is against God's Word, and I am also standing up strongly against Gay Marriage.

I thank the Lord that I have the courage to stand up for what is right. I thank God that he gives me the conviction to say what is on my mind. I thank God that Social Media exists and we can participate in the conversation of the world if we want, and I definitely want! We are living in morally corrupt society and it is getting worse everyday. We had to stand up for what is right before it is too late!

Many think social media, aka Facebook is a waste of time. I can tell you, I have learned more from different groups on Facebook that I would have never encountered if I hadn't been online and connected. I learned about CCSVI for my MS through the communities on Facebook. I definitely would have never learned of that through my neurologist or my PCP or any local MS groups. I've hooked in with many Christians groups through Facebook and share their posts with my friends. I've made deep relationships with virtual friends, and have a Facebook prayer group with many ladies I have become quite close too also.

I keep up with what's going on in the world through Facebook, Google and Twitter, and participate if I want to voice my opinion. You can't do that just watching the TV or reading the newspaper. All you can do is grumble if you don't like it, but you really have no voice. Of course you can write a letter to the editor, but even that may not be picked up, you are at the mercy of the editors. On Facebook,Twitter. Instagram, Google and any other social media sites you can voice your opinions loud and clear right then. You can stand up for Jesus in big ways or small ways everyday or every hour of everyday if you want. What's that they say, "If you don't stand up for something, you'll fall for anything.?" So true!

So I ask you today, have you done anything recently to stand up for Jesus, to stand up for what is right in the eyes of God? Have you shared your opinions with your friends in person or over the phone, or over the internet?  If you read the bible, it's pretty clear how the Lord wants us to live. It's us that strays away from him, he never leaves our side! Thank God for that!

I encourage you to stand up for Jesus today! You will never be sorry. He will bestow blessings upon blessings upon you for your obedience.

My verse for today is above in red.

My prayer for today:

Dearest Heavenly Father

Help me Lord! Help me to speak up in boldness for Your Truth and Your Word! Continue to help me me to boldly proclaim what is right and wrong in the eyes of your Word. Thank you Lord that we have the ability to speak up, that we live in a free country and have the freedom to defend what is right. Continue to open my eyes to your truth so I can share it with the world.

Amen and Amen 

God, are you there? It sure is hard to see you right now!

I've hesitated blogging about this, but my church has been so much a part of me, I really feel I needed to share.

Our local church home has been a big part of our families life for almost 30 years. I stepped in the doors of that church when our oldest son was only 3 years old. I took him to Sunday School there on the recommendation of a friend from our apartment complex. She was teaching Sunday School there and her kids also attended. Turns out our son ended up marrying her daughter all these years later, but that's another story.

We joined the church, my husband found Jesus there, and both our boys were baptized there. Our kids were raised in that church, and learned to know Jesus there. We renewed our wedding vows there 15 years ago.  We spent many happy hours working around the church, on our Christmas tree lot each year, in the kitchen at pancake breakfasts, in prayer and bible study groups, teaching Sunday School myself and being involved in the other many ministries of the church. Recently, our precious granddaughter was baptized in the same church where her parents were committed to God many years ago. So, what has happened?

Our beloved church has actually closed its doors after being in service for over 55 years. 55 years of serving the Lord. 55 years of serving the community and reaching out to others in the name of Jesus. It closed, not because there weren't faithful congregants, some of us had been there 10, 20, and 30 plus years. It closed because of mismanagement by those who should have been held accountable.

Deception is a terrible thing. It's especially hard when you can't trust those who proclaim the name of the Lord. Help us Lord to have discerning hearts that are focused only on you; that has been my prayer throughout all this confusion. Lord, show us your truth in all this.

I have to admit that many times it has been really hard to see God is all this mess, but I know he's there, none the less. I'm not sure what His plans for our church are, but I know His plans will prevail. There has been some talk from the district about a church adoption next year. I don't know if I trust that is going to happen at all, but that could be my disappointment seething through.

One thing I know for sure. God is in charge of what going to happen next. My job is to trust and obey. Trust that He knows what He's doing and it's all part of His perfect plan. Proverbs 19:21 reminds us  "Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails."

There has been a lot of hurt for a lot of God's people through all this, but I know that the Lord can heal those wounds and bring new life into that church if it is His will and if we all are willing to forgive and move on.

As I was working on this piece, my dear sweet husband shared with me a devotional that he received via email this morning. As you can imagine, we have both been struggling with the hurt and confusion that has occurred over the past months. It was not a coincidence that these were the words placed before us. I know that for sure, it was definitely a God -Thing.

The devotional was about forgiveness and hate and the ramifications of those awful actions. It was about many believers inability to forgive those who hurt them the most - especially when the treatment was undeserved. It said it is impossible to share Christ with hatred in your heart. God calls us to turn over everything to him, including all the hurt and bitterness and start fresh with a new heart. He forgives us, who are we not to forgive others?  

Ephesians 4:31-32 tells us to "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.  Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." 

I felt like Jesus was talking directly to me. "Let it go and move on" were the words I heard over and over again, loud and clear. ENOUGH!

I know that the Lord can take anything that is broken and restore it to new beauty if that is his will. He is a God of restoration and he is a God of new beginnings. Another favorite verse comes to mind about God turning ashes into beauty. 

Isaiah 61:3 
"to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes."

I am resting on His promises to restore what is His. After all, it's not my church, it's His church.  I am resting on his promises to turn something ugly and broken into something beautiful. I know he can do anything he wants at anytime, and therein lies my hope and the hope for all mankind. Lord Jesus, Show Me Your Glory!


My verses for today are above in red

My prayer for today:

Heavenly Father,

This has been such a hard thing for me and for my family and so many other families in our church. Please Lord, heal up the wounds, bring new life into our church, give us a new purpose in serving you. Help us to forgive those who have hurt us so we can shine again for you! You forgave us Father, help us to forgive others as you have commanded. Help us to confess our sins and turn to you in anticipation in what you are going to do!!

Amen