Wednesday, July 8, 2009
CURB APPEAL!
I love curb appeal! As we drive along on our neighborhood streets, I look at all the yards and houses and wish I had that, or wish we could do that and even think; "Why can't we do that!" Jim always reminds me that not all of 'that' is necessary for our happiness. It is good for the neighborhood and for resale but it is not necessary for our lives. Just the same it would be nice! What is important to you? What would you choose to do if your pocket book would allow you your hearts desires?
Because we have chosen to be active in God's kingdom here on earth, most of our resources go into the offering plate and some missionary work and even this and that as we help out on affairs that uplift and encourage the Saints. Now understand, we are not putting funds into the coffer and being active in God's work because we are paying and working our way into heaven. No, that is not it at all! We are so happy that God has given us a way to come to Him through His Son Jesus that we not only want to share this with as many as we can, but we enjoy all that the church has to offer along the way.
Danny and Faye, my son and his wife, have three boys. Believe me when I say they are button popping boys! From the beginning they have brought much joy into our lives and they have been a delight to our souls. Dan & Faye made the decision early on that if they could, they would put them into a Christian school for their primary, Jr. High and Highschool years. This decision was made possible because Faye began her teaching career at Hosanna Christian School when Adam was in pre-school. She has continued throughout these 16 years and has seen Adam graduate, Ryan will graduate next year and Jordan in another 4 years. As a teacher she received financial educational benefits for her children but many things they would want, would have to wait. The greatest benefit of all is that she has been one of her boys teachers and know they have been taught what is the most beneficial of all, Jesus Christ!
Being happy does not depend upon our pocket book, the car we drive, how big our house is or whether our yard is big enough and manicured enough to appear on the front page of House and Garden Magazines. Our happiness depends upon knowing God and how much we care for one another. Our happiness comes from inner peace and good thoughts that come from knowing God. Our happiness is relative to how much we love life and making the most of all our encounters with one another.
"And He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the multitude putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came and put in two copper coins, which make a penny. And He called the disciples to Him and said to them, "Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For they all contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, her whole living." Mark 12:41-44
I find this passage of scripture interesting because Jesus points out her poverty because she gave what she had and points out others giving in abundance. The point here is not her poverty or their abundance but how she gave all she had. We mow our lawns and we pull the weeds; We plant flowers and prune the plants and bushes; We take care of what we have and yet want more. We should be using our poverty or abundance to enjoy life and to learn more about Him who has given us everything.
Yes, I love to watch Curb Appeal on TV and wonder what we would do if we were so inclined. I would rather spend what God has given us on the things that are important to God and to us, like taking the kids out for Sunday dinner. Jane Ann
I love curb appeal! As we drive along on our neighborhood streets, I look at all the yards and houses and wish I had that, or wish we could do that and even think; "Why can't we do that!" Jim always reminds me that not all of 'that' is necessary for our happiness. It is good for the neighborhood and for resale but it is not necessary for our lives. Just the same it would be nice! What is important to you? What would you choose to do if your pocket book would allow you your hearts desires?
Because we have chosen to be active in God's kingdom here on earth, most of our resources go into the offering plate and some missionary work and even this and that as we help out on affairs that uplift and encourage the Saints. Now understand, we are not putting funds into the coffer and being active in God's work because we are paying and working our way into heaven. No, that is not it at all! We are so happy that God has given us a way to come to Him through His Son Jesus that we not only want to share this with as many as we can, but we enjoy all that the church has to offer along the way.
Danny and Faye, my son and his wife, have three boys. Believe me when I say they are button popping boys! From the beginning they have brought much joy into our lives and they have been a delight to our souls. Dan & Faye made the decision early on that if they could, they would put them into a Christian school for their primary, Jr. High and Highschool years. This decision was made possible because Faye began her teaching career at Hosanna Christian School when Adam was in pre-school. She has continued throughout these 16 years and has seen Adam graduate, Ryan will graduate next year and Jordan in another 4 years. As a teacher she received financial educational benefits for her children but many things they would want, would have to wait. The greatest benefit of all is that she has been one of her boys teachers and know they have been taught what is the most beneficial of all, Jesus Christ!
Being happy does not depend upon our pocket book, the car we drive, how big our house is or whether our yard is big enough and manicured enough to appear on the front page of House and Garden Magazines. Our happiness depends upon knowing God and how much we care for one another. Our happiness comes from inner peace and good thoughts that come from knowing God. Our happiness is relative to how much we love life and making the most of all our encounters with one another.
"And He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the multitude putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came and put in two copper coins, which make a penny. And He called the disciples to Him and said to them, "Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For they all contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, her whole living." Mark 12:41-44
I find this passage of scripture interesting because Jesus points out her poverty because she gave what she had and points out others giving in abundance. The point here is not her poverty or their abundance but how she gave all she had. We mow our lawns and we pull the weeds; We plant flowers and prune the plants and bushes; We take care of what we have and yet want more. We should be using our poverty or abundance to enjoy life and to learn more about Him who has given us everything.
Yes, I love to watch Curb Appeal on TV and wonder what we would do if we were so inclined. I would rather spend what God has given us on the things that are important to God and to us, like taking the kids out for Sunday dinner. Jane Ann
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
THE WAY IT WAS!
When I was a child I remember hearing stories about a family that my older brothers and sisters were acquainted with. I could only imagine their home as well as I could only imagine such a life style. The boy's name was Elmer! Their home and personal hygiene left more to my nasal imagination than it did to my visual. I would hear about the farm animals that would wander in and out of the home. How unkempt they were and how they accepted the way it was.
When we would vacation in Oregon we visited my Mom and the other siblings that had already moved to this beautiful green country. On one of our outings Mom along with Jewel and her husband Bud took us out to a place called Wimer to visit some relatives that lived in that area. While we were there they took us to a place that I could only refer to as Ma and Pa Kettle's Farm. Those who are old enough would know immediately what that would entail. Jim and I sat along a wall and watched while Ma Kettle made butter with her hands while Mom and Jewel anxiously awaited their purchase of fresh homemade butter.
As I remember sitting in that kitchen my memory took me back to the stories of Elmer and his home. I didn't see any animals wondering in and out but oh my, the kitchen and their home left much to be desired. On this farm there were many farm animals. They had a pig that stood as tall as a horse and weighed as much as two. To Jewel and Mom it was a treat to be there; for Jim and me it was unbelievable!
Appearances are what we see and make impressions of. However, just because it is the way it is, doesn't make it, who the people are. Circumstances sometimes dictate how things become. Those who adapt to their situations and make the most of it are to be applauded. Most "Citified" people allow their abundance to dictate circumstances to become the way it is.
Growing up in a large family where we would use every inch of the housing provided us was to be considered creative ingenuity. It was the way it was! We learned to adapt and to be happy regardless of our circumstances. At least that is how I saw it!
In biblical times life was pretty much as it is today. The Schunamite Woman had substance and built on an addition so that Elisha had a place to stay when he came to town. Elijah, had nothing and lived under a tree for three years, and ate what the birds brought him. Jesus didn't have a home and a stone was His pillow. Can you imagine our Savior a homeless person? According to the scriptures, He was! Martha and Mary along with their brother would scurry around preparing a place for Jesus and His disciples when they heard they were coming to town.
Do you have a place for a homeless person? Do you have compassion for those who are actually homeless due to circumstances? Oh, I know there are many out there who choose to be in those kinds of straights because they are bucking the establishment. They don't want to participate in the society that expects something from them. I know there are many out there who feel they deserve to be taken care of instead of being a part of a community. Jesus said the poor will always be with us. Whether by circumstances or by desire, the poor are with us!
"Listen, my beloved brethren. Has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He has promised to those who love Him?" James 2:5 It is harder for the rich to be satisfied, even though they have much. God has chosen the poor because they give up worldly ways to belong to the kingdom of God. We have riches in our faith, because we are poor in the spirit! However, there are many with abundance that are also rich in faith and poor in spirit because they also have come to know the Lord. Being humble before the lord makes up rich! Jane Ann
When I was a child I remember hearing stories about a family that my older brothers and sisters were acquainted with. I could only imagine their home as well as I could only imagine such a life style. The boy's name was Elmer! Their home and personal hygiene left more to my nasal imagination than it did to my visual. I would hear about the farm animals that would wander in and out of the home. How unkempt they were and how they accepted the way it was.
When we would vacation in Oregon we visited my Mom and the other siblings that had already moved to this beautiful green country. On one of our outings Mom along with Jewel and her husband Bud took us out to a place called Wimer to visit some relatives that lived in that area. While we were there they took us to a place that I could only refer to as Ma and Pa Kettle's Farm. Those who are old enough would know immediately what that would entail. Jim and I sat along a wall and watched while Ma Kettle made butter with her hands while Mom and Jewel anxiously awaited their purchase of fresh homemade butter.
As I remember sitting in that kitchen my memory took me back to the stories of Elmer and his home. I didn't see any animals wondering in and out but oh my, the kitchen and their home left much to be desired. On this farm there were many farm animals. They had a pig that stood as tall as a horse and weighed as much as two. To Jewel and Mom it was a treat to be there; for Jim and me it was unbelievable!
Appearances are what we see and make impressions of. However, just because it is the way it is, doesn't make it, who the people are. Circumstances sometimes dictate how things become. Those who adapt to their situations and make the most of it are to be applauded. Most "Citified" people allow their abundance to dictate circumstances to become the way it is.
Growing up in a large family where we would use every inch of the housing provided us was to be considered creative ingenuity. It was the way it was! We learned to adapt and to be happy regardless of our circumstances. At least that is how I saw it!
In biblical times life was pretty much as it is today. The Schunamite Woman had substance and built on an addition so that Elisha had a place to stay when he came to town. Elijah, had nothing and lived under a tree for three years, and ate what the birds brought him. Jesus didn't have a home and a stone was His pillow. Can you imagine our Savior a homeless person? According to the scriptures, He was! Martha and Mary along with their brother would scurry around preparing a place for Jesus and His disciples when they heard they were coming to town.
Do you have a place for a homeless person? Do you have compassion for those who are actually homeless due to circumstances? Oh, I know there are many out there who choose to be in those kinds of straights because they are bucking the establishment. They don't want to participate in the society that expects something from them. I know there are many out there who feel they deserve to be taken care of instead of being a part of a community. Jesus said the poor will always be with us. Whether by circumstances or by desire, the poor are with us!
"Listen, my beloved brethren. Has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He has promised to those who love Him?" James 2:5 It is harder for the rich to be satisfied, even though they have much. God has chosen the poor because they give up worldly ways to belong to the kingdom of God. We have riches in our faith, because we are poor in the spirit! However, there are many with abundance that are also rich in faith and poor in spirit because they also have come to know the Lord. Being humble before the lord makes up rich! Jane Ann
Monday, July 6, 2009
MY OWN PERSONAL STYLIST! 7/6/09
This week we will talk about how we are on the outside. Personal appearances; curb appeal and how God looks at us.
My Own Personal Stylist!
After I married, Jim and I bought our house pretty close to Gene and Joetta's. We became not just sisters but friends. She loved to shop and I didn't, but sometimes I would go. Joetta had an untapped talent called, creativity! She could sew! I remember a dress she made for herself out of three different patterns. She made my baby Jennifer, a doll dress to wear. She also had a flair with hair! She could have done well with her own shop but she didn't have a license. Today, with all the cutesy names, she could call it; "Flair with Hair" or "Hair with Flair"! On Saturday mornings she did my hair! She would shampoo, cut/style, give me perms. And when she saw me on Sunday, she would give me a final personal fluffing up. When I was pregnant with Danny she suggested she could give me a 'brush-up' which would perk me up while I was being so plump. I loved it! It was short, very curly, especially in the back and very eash to manage. You know, I don't think I ever paid her for being the best stylist I ever had!
About a year ago I asked my hairdresser to give me a 'brush-up'. She wasn't quite sure what it was. I did my best to explain; you cut it very short in the back and perm with the rollers going up instead of down. The sides will be curly also and would brush up towards the back. The top has a little bang. But all in all it is curly and easy to manage. Because my hair was so thin I thought this style would help hide some of the more bare spots. Obviously, hairdressers today have never even heard of 'brush-up'. First run through, wasn't bad! It was pretty close but not exactly like Joetta's style. Through the weeks following and subsequent trims and perms my hair began to fall into my new hair stylist, style. It never quite became a 'brush-up'!
I have never been a style setter, nor have I ever been inclined towards the latest fashions. I only like what I like and feel most comfortable with. I know there are a lot of women out there like me. However, I don't like going out of the house without my face on. When my grandson's were small each one was intrigued with the idea of 'putting my face on'. They would come into my bathroom, sit on the counter and watch me. One Sunday morning after I had finished getting ready for Sunday School and Church, Adam, almost 4 said; "Grandma, you're gorgeous"! Boy was he a charmer! As a matter of fact all three of those boys are charmers.
There is vanity in all of us, some have more than others. We want to look nice and presentable. If we look beautiful the more pleased we are. If we look country, well then we feel a little bit country. No matter how much money we spend on the outside, the inside never will measure up unless we fix it also. When we meet a 'homeless person' on the street we are made aware of how poor and seemingly alone they are. We see their need and although we are sorry for their condition, we are glad that our lives are not like that. When a 'homeless person' meets a well dressed person on the street they are made aware of how it could be but is not. We are all aware of those who have and those who are the have nots. I realize these are just words! Words we use to express what we see, hear and feel. Words that express the conditions of life.
When Jesus met the 10 lepers, he was not shocked at their appearance or their disabilities. He was moved with compassion. When Jesus visited Martha, Mary and Lazarus he was comfortable in their home not because of their wealth but because of their kindness to Him.
2 Corinithians 8:9 Paul brings to our attention that Jesus, although He was rich, became poor so that by His poverty we might become rich.
My hairdresser was concerned about my hair and was willing to try to fix it with a style she knew nothing about. I was willing to let her try. At least she had an idea! No matter what our outside appearance makes, it should reflect Jesus Christ. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 2/10/08
My Own Personal Stylist!
After I married, Jim and I bought our house pretty close to Gene and Joetta's. We became not just sisters but friends. She loved to shop and I didn't, but sometimes I would go. Joetta had an untapped talent called, creativity! She could sew! I remember a dress she made for herself out of three different patterns. She made my baby Jennifer, a doll dress to wear. She also had a flair with hair! She could have done well with her own shop but she didn't have a license. Today, with all the cutesy names, she could call it; "Flair with Hair" or "Hair with Flair"! On Saturday mornings she did my hair! She would shampoo, cut/style, give me perms. And when she saw me on Sunday, she would give me a final personal fluffing up. When I was pregnant with Danny she suggested she could give me a 'brush-up' which would perk me up while I was being so plump. I loved it! It was short, very curly, especially in the back and very eash to manage. You know, I don't think I ever paid her for being the best stylist I ever had!
About a year ago I asked my hairdresser to give me a 'brush-up'. She wasn't quite sure what it was. I did my best to explain; you cut it very short in the back and perm with the rollers going up instead of down. The sides will be curly also and would brush up towards the back. The top has a little bang. But all in all it is curly and easy to manage. Because my hair was so thin I thought this style would help hide some of the more bare spots. Obviously, hairdressers today have never even heard of 'brush-up'. First run through, wasn't bad! It was pretty close but not exactly like Joetta's style. Through the weeks following and subsequent trims and perms my hair began to fall into my new hair stylist, style. It never quite became a 'brush-up'!
I have never been a style setter, nor have I ever been inclined towards the latest fashions. I only like what I like and feel most comfortable with. I know there are a lot of women out there like me. However, I don't like going out of the house without my face on. When my grandson's were small each one was intrigued with the idea of 'putting my face on'. They would come into my bathroom, sit on the counter and watch me. One Sunday morning after I had finished getting ready for Sunday School and Church, Adam, almost 4 said; "Grandma, you're gorgeous"! Boy was he a charmer! As a matter of fact all three of those boys are charmers.
There is vanity in all of us, some have more than others. We want to look nice and presentable. If we look beautiful the more pleased we are. If we look country, well then we feel a little bit country. No matter how much money we spend on the outside, the inside never will measure up unless we fix it also. When we meet a 'homeless person' on the street we are made aware of how poor and seemingly alone they are. We see their need and although we are sorry for their condition, we are glad that our lives are not like that. When a 'homeless person' meets a well dressed person on the street they are made aware of how it could be but is not. We are all aware of those who have and those who are the have nots. I realize these are just words! Words we use to express what we see, hear and feel. Words that express the conditions of life.
When Jesus met the 10 lepers, he was not shocked at their appearance or their disabilities. He was moved with compassion. When Jesus visited Martha, Mary and Lazarus he was comfortable in their home not because of their wealth but because of their kindness to Him.
2 Corinithians 8:9 Paul brings to our attention that Jesus, although He was rich, became poor so that by His poverty we might become rich.
My hairdresser was concerned about my hair and was willing to try to fix it with a style she knew nothing about. I was willing to let her try. At least she had an idea! No matter what our outside appearance makes, it should reflect Jesus Christ. By Jane Ann Crenshaw 2/10/08
Friday, July 3, 2009
A TIME TO CELEBRATE!
Years ago my neighbor and I planned a birthday party for my brother Layton. We didn't usually have birthday parties in my family perse' but we did this time. I just felt he deserved a party! I invited him and my brother Larry for dinner that evening and after dinner my neighbor came over and we began to put out all the decorations, the cake and snacks. We planned games and gifts were expected. After everyone arrived Layton, a little embarrassed about all the fuss, came and told me he had to leave. He had a previous engagement! Needless to say, I was a little hurt! However, not surprised because through out my life Layton taught me many things. This time he taught me that no matter how much we plan and how much we want to please others, accept the disappointments and go on. We did! We played the games and opened the gifts. Layton was the only one that missed out but I knew that secretly, he was pleased. Things like this don't cause me stress or anxiety! It's a party! A celebration!
This last year my brother Lynn and His wife Kathleen went through some very difficult days with cancer, chemo, radiation along with diet to keep Lynn's strength up. Tests after tests! Strength ebbing and weakness setting in. But the grace of God permeated their household and prayers were in abundance. Lynn and Kathleen danced, not just once but many times!
Disappoints come and heartbreaks happen. Health issues raise their ugly heads and the economy hurts our pocket books. We lose things and find things that have been missing for ages. Life goes on! Life is a good thing! God thought so, that is why He gave us life. Life is a celebration, a blessing from God. It is how you look at life that makes all the difference.
This weekend we are celebrating our Countries birthday, our Independance from the oppression of England's rule! July 4, 1776 set the tone of our Countries freedoms that were held in gentle hands because it was so precious. It cost us plenty then and still is not free today.
I know our country is in flux. We feel the impending doom and wonder if we will survive the power within the halls of our government. What good does it do for us to worry. We need to be praying about it instead. Why not go instead for a drive and enjoy the wonders afforded to you where you are. Just because you can't go abroad doesn't mean you can't imagine being there. Take up painting or write your memories. God is still in charge!
We are familiar with Ecclesiastes 3, where Solomon tells us there is a time for everything. "Every matter has its time and way, although man's trouble lies heavy upon him." Eccl 8:6 "Conduct yoursleves wisely towards everyone, making the most of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer everyone". Colossians 4:5-6 Trusting in God gives peace! No worry there!
Everyday is new! Everyday is a day to celebrate! Everyday is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it. Let us leave our worries and stress behind us. Don't let anxiety set in until we are fully depressed. I read once that a man would rise each morning with; "This is just the kind of day I wanted!" Let us live each day as though it was our last. Let us celebrate and find joy in being alive. Go to church and celebrate the Lord! Take a walk in the rain and let it wash away the cobwebs in your brain. Prepare for the day when you take that walk into heaven, but don't worry about it. Instead, call a friend! Perhaps, eat come chocolate! "Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice!" Philippians 4:4 Jane Ann
Years ago my neighbor and I planned a birthday party for my brother Layton. We didn't usually have birthday parties in my family perse' but we did this time. I just felt he deserved a party! I invited him and my brother Larry for dinner that evening and after dinner my neighbor came over and we began to put out all the decorations, the cake and snacks. We planned games and gifts were expected. After everyone arrived Layton, a little embarrassed about all the fuss, came and told me he had to leave. He had a previous engagement! Needless to say, I was a little hurt! However, not surprised because through out my life Layton taught me many things. This time he taught me that no matter how much we plan and how much we want to please others, accept the disappointments and go on. We did! We played the games and opened the gifts. Layton was the only one that missed out but I knew that secretly, he was pleased. Things like this don't cause me stress or anxiety! It's a party! A celebration!
This last year my brother Lynn and His wife Kathleen went through some very difficult days with cancer, chemo, radiation along with diet to keep Lynn's strength up. Tests after tests! Strength ebbing and weakness setting in. But the grace of God permeated their household and prayers were in abundance. Lynn and Kathleen danced, not just once but many times!
Disappoints come and heartbreaks happen. Health issues raise their ugly heads and the economy hurts our pocket books. We lose things and find things that have been missing for ages. Life goes on! Life is a good thing! God thought so, that is why He gave us life. Life is a celebration, a blessing from God. It is how you look at life that makes all the difference.
This weekend we are celebrating our Countries birthday, our Independance from the oppression of England's rule! July 4, 1776 set the tone of our Countries freedoms that were held in gentle hands because it was so precious. It cost us plenty then and still is not free today.
I know our country is in flux. We feel the impending doom and wonder if we will survive the power within the halls of our government. What good does it do for us to worry. We need to be praying about it instead. Why not go instead for a drive and enjoy the wonders afforded to you where you are. Just because you can't go abroad doesn't mean you can't imagine being there. Take up painting or write your memories. God is still in charge!
We are familiar with Ecclesiastes 3, where Solomon tells us there is a time for everything. "Every matter has its time and way, although man's trouble lies heavy upon him." Eccl 8:6 "Conduct yoursleves wisely towards everyone, making the most of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer everyone". Colossians 4:5-6 Trusting in God gives peace! No worry there!
Everyday is new! Everyday is a day to celebrate! Everyday is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it. Let us leave our worries and stress behind us. Don't let anxiety set in until we are fully depressed. I read once that a man would rise each morning with; "This is just the kind of day I wanted!" Let us live each day as though it was our last. Let us celebrate and find joy in being alive. Go to church and celebrate the Lord! Take a walk in the rain and let it wash away the cobwebs in your brain. Prepare for the day when you take that walk into heaven, but don't worry about it. Instead, call a friend! Perhaps, eat come chocolate! "Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice!" Philippians 4:4 Jane Ann
Thursday, July 2, 2009
RECOGNIZING SATAN!
Fear is not a symptom but a cause. Fear can trigger symptoms of stress and/or anxiety. A person who experiences fear is afraid; fearful of things that are external or of things that have consequences. In other words, being afraid is being fearful! I suppose a person who is fearful is easily frightened which can cause stress or anxiety on many occasions.
I am afraid of many things! I suppose they are called phobia's. I have a fear of heights; being in a mummy sleeping bag; snakes and most creepy, crawly things. Many things I just don't like, but not necessarily, afraid. Spiders are one and flies are another. The only good ones are dead ones. I don't like mice or small animals that run very fast and close to my feet.
Some stress and anxiety can be brought on by medical and/or health problems. These must be handled through the medical profession and not by anything I may say. However, some are commonly brought on by outside forces or by our own mental anquish. When these types of conditions are apparent and making me heavy of heart I turn on Satan. More times than not, he runs away like a scared rabbit. That makes me very happy!
"Resist the Devil and He will flee from you!" James 4:7 In order to recognize Satan we must look at the scriptures that tell us who he is. He has many names and he can cause many problems, especially when he knows where we are most vulnerable.
Many years ago I used a book called "Dealing with the Devil" in teaching the High School SS class. I found it interesting and tried using it. I was not able to actually perfect the instructions until in 1998 when I presented a shorter version to my Ladies class. I began to use a key verse, Colossians 3:2 and then I began to have better control and was able to put Satan in his place. Oh I am not perfect at it and I forget to read the signs, but when I do I can stop him in his tracks and I am always amazed how well it works.
The difference between natural and spiritual is huge. If you are a natural person you already belong to Satan. If you are a spiritual person you belong to Christ. A natural person is of the world and has no fear of Satan because he is the god of this world. A spiritual person has the Holy Spirit within them and therefore God is their world.
"An angel of light" 2 Cor. 11:14; "An adversary" 1 Peter 5:8; "A restless lion" 1 Peter 5:8; "A tempter" 1 Thess. 3:5; "A deceiver" 2 Cor. 11:3; "A hinderer" 1 Thess. 2:18; "A beast" Rev. 19:19; "The god of this world" 2 Cor. 4:4; "Prince of the power of the air" Eph. 2:2 and "father of lies" John 8:44. Being familiar with these names helps us to know when Satan is causing us our fears, stress, anxieties, feeling pressures and even some occasional depressions.
When I recognize his work in me, I yell as loud as I can, whether it is inside of my head or out loud when I am alone. It works! I don't know how it works, but it works! When my problem was induced by medicines it was difficult for me to know my right hand from my left. When my medicines were corrected, I recognized Satan immediately.
In 2nd Corinithians Paul talks about forgiveness and reaffirming our love for the Savior. Then in verse 11 he says when we do this; "It is to keep Satan from gaining the advantage over us; for we are not ignorant of his designs." What does Satan want from us? "So as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he!" I have heard that Satan wants the mind of man because it is the mind that has accepted Jesus Christ and it is the mind that keeps man focused on God.
"You dear children, are from God and have overcome evil because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world!" 1 John 4:4 I love the idea; "Practice the Presence of God!" No matter what is happening in our lives, practicing the presence of God may keep Satan at bay, but surely not in control of our lives. Jane Ann
Fear is not a symptom but a cause. Fear can trigger symptoms of stress and/or anxiety. A person who experiences fear is afraid; fearful of things that are external or of things that have consequences. In other words, being afraid is being fearful! I suppose a person who is fearful is easily frightened which can cause stress or anxiety on many occasions.
I am afraid of many things! I suppose they are called phobia's. I have a fear of heights; being in a mummy sleeping bag; snakes and most creepy, crawly things. Many things I just don't like, but not necessarily, afraid. Spiders are one and flies are another. The only good ones are dead ones. I don't like mice or small animals that run very fast and close to my feet.
Some stress and anxiety can be brought on by medical and/or health problems. These must be handled through the medical profession and not by anything I may say. However, some are commonly brought on by outside forces or by our own mental anquish. When these types of conditions are apparent and making me heavy of heart I turn on Satan. More times than not, he runs away like a scared rabbit. That makes me very happy!
"Resist the Devil and He will flee from you!" James 4:7 In order to recognize Satan we must look at the scriptures that tell us who he is. He has many names and he can cause many problems, especially when he knows where we are most vulnerable.
Many years ago I used a book called "Dealing with the Devil" in teaching the High School SS class. I found it interesting and tried using it. I was not able to actually perfect the instructions until in 1998 when I presented a shorter version to my Ladies class. I began to use a key verse, Colossians 3:2 and then I began to have better control and was able to put Satan in his place. Oh I am not perfect at it and I forget to read the signs, but when I do I can stop him in his tracks and I am always amazed how well it works.
The difference between natural and spiritual is huge. If you are a natural person you already belong to Satan. If you are a spiritual person you belong to Christ. A natural person is of the world and has no fear of Satan because he is the god of this world. A spiritual person has the Holy Spirit within them and therefore God is their world.
"An angel of light" 2 Cor. 11:14; "An adversary" 1 Peter 5:8; "A restless lion" 1 Peter 5:8; "A tempter" 1 Thess. 3:5; "A deceiver" 2 Cor. 11:3; "A hinderer" 1 Thess. 2:18; "A beast" Rev. 19:19; "The god of this world" 2 Cor. 4:4; "Prince of the power of the air" Eph. 2:2 and "father of lies" John 8:44. Being familiar with these names helps us to know when Satan is causing us our fears, stress, anxieties, feeling pressures and even some occasional depressions.
When I recognize his work in me, I yell as loud as I can, whether it is inside of my head or out loud when I am alone. It works! I don't know how it works, but it works! When my problem was induced by medicines it was difficult for me to know my right hand from my left. When my medicines were corrected, I recognized Satan immediately.
In 2nd Corinithians Paul talks about forgiveness and reaffirming our love for the Savior. Then in verse 11 he says when we do this; "It is to keep Satan from gaining the advantage over us; for we are not ignorant of his designs." What does Satan want from us? "So as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he!" I have heard that Satan wants the mind of man because it is the mind that has accepted Jesus Christ and it is the mind that keeps man focused on God.
"You dear children, are from God and have overcome evil because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world!" 1 John 4:4 I love the idea; "Practice the Presence of God!" No matter what is happening in our lives, practicing the presence of God may keep Satan at bay, but surely not in control of our lives. Jane Ann
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
GRAY HAIR!
I am not sure when Mary Jane's hair changed but I know it was when we were young and perhaps while in highschool. Her hair was dark but a clump of her hair at the middle of her forehead turned white. Of course she hated it and I always thought it looked not only interesting but very glamourous, not to mention she stood out in a crowd. I thought it was beautiful! The wicked lady in '101 Dalmatian's' had that white streak in her hair! Of course it has nothing to do with character or personality because Mary Jane is still one of my best friends. A friend suggested she could get rid of her streak if she wanted to and she did!
It has been said that worry can cause premature gray hair! I understand that 30 for men and 35 for women is usually when the first signs of gray appear. However further studies show that gray can appear as young as in the teens, like Mary Jane. I think the jury is still out on whether stress is the cause of premature gray hair. Some believe it is a factor, while others think there needs to be more research, even though it has been noted that graying has accelerated among patients under stress. Personally I felt stressed when my graying accelerated!
One report says; "It's not your kids that are making you go gray! Your hair is simply building up too much hydrogen peroxide which is produced naturally. The HP interferes with melanin, the pigment that colors our hair and skin. Also the enzyme catalase is a factor. Not to mention that it is also inherited and for the most part will happen as we age!
Several times in Genesis in the story of Jacob losing Joseph and when the brothers want to take Benjamin with them when they return to Egypt where Joseph was, the term; "would bring down my gray hairs with sorrow", is used. What do you suppose that means? Perhaps, because Jacob was an old man, it merely meant that he felt he would probably die because of his sorrow. Gray hair is synonymous with old age, not stress!
"Are not two sparrows, sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's will. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered." Matthew 10:39-30
Here, God doesn't address gray hair but He does tell us that we are important to Him because he knows just how many hairs we have. The hair on Jim's head is easy to count, but that doesn't make those with a heavy head of hair any more important. Praise the Lord!
I suppose stress and anxiety can account for many of our health issues and perhaps could help the process of turning gray because I remember my mother saying; "If you don't cut that out I will grow old before my time." Whatever that meant I am not sure, because I thought she was old then. I believe I have more gray hair than my mother did at my age.
In my old dictionary it says that stress is caused by pressure. This pressure could be trying to be accurate in making a point or perhaps the stress or strain of an object pulling against one another. However, anxiety is a condition of mental uneasiness. Being anxious is deeply concerned or apprehensive. Today we call it stress! Perhaps that is because the word stressed spelled backwards is 'desserts'! Could that be the remedy for being stressed?
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God". Philippians 4:6 We all have memorized this scripture and know that it is a truth, that Paul has given us, because he knows it works. It is easy to say, "to be anxious for nothing," but in our world being anxious has become second nature. "Let us set our minds upon things above and not on the things of this earth!" Colossians 3:2
Some days are good and some days are bad. Dwelling on circumstances brings depression, but giving the day to the Lord is giving back to Him that which belongs to Him anyway.
Jane Ann
I am not sure when Mary Jane's hair changed but I know it was when we were young and perhaps while in highschool. Her hair was dark but a clump of her hair at the middle of her forehead turned white. Of course she hated it and I always thought it looked not only interesting but very glamourous, not to mention she stood out in a crowd. I thought it was beautiful! The wicked lady in '101 Dalmatian's' had that white streak in her hair! Of course it has nothing to do with character or personality because Mary Jane is still one of my best friends. A friend suggested she could get rid of her streak if she wanted to and she did!
It has been said that worry can cause premature gray hair! I understand that 30 for men and 35 for women is usually when the first signs of gray appear. However further studies show that gray can appear as young as in the teens, like Mary Jane. I think the jury is still out on whether stress is the cause of premature gray hair. Some believe it is a factor, while others think there needs to be more research, even though it has been noted that graying has accelerated among patients under stress. Personally I felt stressed when my graying accelerated!
One report says; "It's not your kids that are making you go gray! Your hair is simply building up too much hydrogen peroxide which is produced naturally. The HP interferes with melanin, the pigment that colors our hair and skin. Also the enzyme catalase is a factor. Not to mention that it is also inherited and for the most part will happen as we age!
Several times in Genesis in the story of Jacob losing Joseph and when the brothers want to take Benjamin with them when they return to Egypt where Joseph was, the term; "would bring down my gray hairs with sorrow", is used. What do you suppose that means? Perhaps, because Jacob was an old man, it merely meant that he felt he would probably die because of his sorrow. Gray hair is synonymous with old age, not stress!
"Are not two sparrows, sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's will. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered." Matthew 10:39-30
Here, God doesn't address gray hair but He does tell us that we are important to Him because he knows just how many hairs we have. The hair on Jim's head is easy to count, but that doesn't make those with a heavy head of hair any more important. Praise the Lord!
I suppose stress and anxiety can account for many of our health issues and perhaps could help the process of turning gray because I remember my mother saying; "If you don't cut that out I will grow old before my time." Whatever that meant I am not sure, because I thought she was old then. I believe I have more gray hair than my mother did at my age.
In my old dictionary it says that stress is caused by pressure. This pressure could be trying to be accurate in making a point or perhaps the stress or strain of an object pulling against one another. However, anxiety is a condition of mental uneasiness. Being anxious is deeply concerned or apprehensive. Today we call it stress! Perhaps that is because the word stressed spelled backwards is 'desserts'! Could that be the remedy for being stressed?
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God". Philippians 4:6 We all have memorized this scripture and know that it is a truth, that Paul has given us, because he knows it works. It is easy to say, "to be anxious for nothing," but in our world being anxious has become second nature. "Let us set our minds upon things above and not on the things of this earth!" Colossians 3:2
Some days are good and some days are bad. Dwelling on circumstances brings depression, but giving the day to the Lord is giving back to Him that which belongs to Him anyway.
Jane Ann
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