Monday, March 31, 2014

THANKFUL

Matthew 24:35 
Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

God's Word is eternal, the Bible tells us so, 
It will always be that way no matter where we go.
The words of Jesus never pass away,
Next year, last week and certainly not today.
So treasure God's Word deep in your heart,
And from His commands never depart.(RP)


We are thankful for our family.  They were with us on Saturday for lunch and a nice visit.  Rawlie stayed and yesterday he treated us to lunch in a restaurant.  We had such a nice time.  He took a nap later, I made him a latte and he returned home.  How wonderful to have family near us. Today we will do some necessary shopping.  I will continue my Revelation preparations for class next Friday.  It is enjoyable time spent in the Word.  Margie had a good night for which we are thankful also.  Thanks for your faithful prayer support.  

Sunday, March 30, 2014

LOOKING FORWARD

Philippians 4:6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Anxious moments sometimes dominate and we aren't our very best,
We are frightened by what happens and for sure we are in a test.
God tells us here that worry has no place in our daily walk,
What He urges is to listen, and with Him have a serious talk.
When we take our worries to Him in petition, prayer and praise,
You will soon discover victory and that praying really pays.(RP)

We always look forward to the short trip down the hill to our church.  Sunday School and the morning service are a blessing each week.  Yesterday our family was here for lunch.  It was very nice having them here.  Rawlie stayed and is with us today again.  We anticipate a leisurely day.   Thanks for your prayers.

Saturday, March 29, 2014

VISIT

1 Thessalonians 5:18 
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Have you ever been guilty of not thanking God enough,
Because you just can't remember or you think life is tough.
God pours His blessing on us every day we are alive,
And if it were not for this, I am sure we wouldn't survive.
So why not start right now and thank Him for anything,
You will learn real soon that another blessing He will bring.
You may not ever think that God's will is meant for you,
But thanking Him in prayer is the means of starting anew(RP)

Our son and his family will be here for lunch and we are looking forward to this. As usual, I will be doing the stuffed pepper deal, that usually takes place on Saturdays.  The wind is blowing strong and some rain is with it, but we concluded it is still better than the miserable cold weather some parts of the country are experiencing. Flowers are in bloom, trees are beautiful, and spring is here.  Shortly I will have to start mowing the lawn.  Margie had a good night and so did I.   Thanks for your prayers.

Friday, March 28, 2014

TEACHING

Job 23:10 
But He knows the way that I take;When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.

God's tests bring out the best in us so don't complain and whine,
The fiery trial will come to us and in the end we'll come out fine. God knows the path we walk just now so nothing is a surprise,He will refine us through the test and a clean life will be our prize.(RP)

Each Friday we look forward to the Bible class.  Over 30 come to the class, sometimes the number reaches almost 40. We are grateful for those who enjoy the study and are good contributors as the lesson unfolds.  Yesterday afternoon's prayer meeting went well.  We appreciate those who take the time to attend.  Marge awakened early this morning. In fact she was ahead of me. But she slept well for which we are thankful.  Thanks friends, for praying. 

Thursday, March 27, 2014

GOOD REPORT

Psalm 37:4 
Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.

The promises of God are special indeed as we ponder them today,
To delight in the Lord is a natural thing, so please do it without delay.
When God's will is our goal in the things we do, we are blessed for sure, 
And joyfully we have the desires of our heart, and know this will endure. (RP)

Margie's doctor gave her a pretty good report yesterday.  She did notice that the blood test revealed she is still in the high risk zone for seizures, but wants her to stay on the present dosage of medication which has controlled these well.  We are thankful for that.  Today is another busy one but good because we go to afternoon prayer meeting at the church.  We thank each of you for your prayers.  

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

OSO MUDSLIDE

Psalm 31:14-15 
But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD. I say, You are my God. My times are in Your hand; Deliver me from the hand of my enemies, And from those who persecute me.

Declaring our trust in the Lord and our allegiance to Him is a must,
And for those who faithfully do, are really the ones who are just.
What a blessed thought is this, that our times are in His hands,
With our hearts centered on Him, all the negatives in life we'll withstand(RP)

Our prayers and concern are with the rescue efforts to find survivors in that awful mudslide.  We hear this morning from former residents of the area that it was a known potential danger.  We stand in awe, of those who remained there all these years knowing the potential danger. There is certainly a spiritual lesson in this for all.  Procrastination and satisfaction can certainly be our downfall.  Margie sees her doctor today and receive a report on the recent blood work she had done. We pray all is well.  Thanks for praying. 

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

KEEP AT IT

For I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. 
Philip.1:11

It's hard to learn this lesson, Lord for we who are so weak,
But give us faith and courage, Your will to always seek.(RP)

We are glad that we can face today, able to do the things we would like to do.  We desire to be busy for the Lord, and a part of that is through prayer and the small Bible study each week.  Margie feels the same way.  She keeps our meals coming, and does background work for ideas for the stories in our newest book.  Yesterday I was able to write 4 more which she is now proofing.  Later we will have to have them edited, when "our ship comes in".  Thanks so much for praying.  We do appreciate it. 

Monday, March 24, 2014

NEW WEEK

Matthew 19:26 
But Jesus looked at them and said to them, With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.

You may be facing impossible things, as you start your day today,
Just remember God can do anything, so take them to Him and pray. Solving problems our own petty way, brings results that are sad indeed,
So take them to Him, let Him control, and you will certainly succeed(RP)

Here we start another week. Oh I know, it really was yesterday. We are sure you have a lot on your list like we do.  We give thanks for the great morning spent yesterday at church for Sunday School and worship service.  Today I continue on my research and study for the Bible class on the book of Revelation.  It is challenging, and even though I have taught it several times, a heavy review is required in order to be able to teach others the truths of this great book. Margie keeps busy also planning meals and many other things.  Thank you for your prayers for us.  We appreciate them. 

Sunday, March 23, 2014

WORSHIP

Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming. Matthew 25:13

We need to be careful how we walk and what we are looking for,
Jesus is coming and we know not when, He may be at the door.
Live for Jesus every day, proclaiming His love to all,
Bringing lost ones to Jesus so that they upon Him will call.(RP)

We look forward to church today.  To study the Bible in Sunday School, and then gather for the worship service, is a joy. Margie had a better night for which we are glad.  Yesterday some anonymous person requested the bell pepper recipe.  It is in the "comment" section at the bottom of yesterday's blog, for any who want it. It is a beautiful day, the sun is shining and spring is here.  The blooms on trees and flowers are bursting with color.  What beauty!   Thanks, dear friends, for praying. 

Saturday, March 22, 2014

SLEEP

 Ps 145:18 
The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth.

Near to You we want to be as we walk this earthly path,
Please help us obey Your commands, and readily give You all,
Humbly we go in submission each day and learn to call upon You, Your grace sufficient will abound to us and we'll have blessing both large and small.(RP)

Margie's sleeping problems are always a concern.  She tried a new medication based on natural ingredients, but last night she did not do well.  She can only take a sleep aid medication 2 or 3 nights, then has to change.  To find the right combination is difficult.  Today I will stuff some green peppers.  Margie has her work outlined as well.  So the old folks keep busy.  I am working ahead, preparing study guides for the study in Revelation.  Thanks so much for praying.  We appreciate it.  

Friday, March 21, 2014

GETTING READY

But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.Acts 16:25

At midnight Paul and Silas sang and prayed to God above.
Who heard their cries and sent relief because of His great love.
They suffered much for Jesus' sake,but God had made a plan,
To bring salvation in this jail and save the jailer man.(RP)

We spend a good part of the week getting ready for Friday's Bible class.  Lesson plans, study question sheets, God's handiwork in nature studies organized, and my own preparation for the class time. It is all very enjoyable.  It just takes time.  And I guess when one is "retired" he has "plenty" of that.  (Maybe!)   We appreciated the prayer meeting at the church and those who faithfully come for that ministry.  Margie was weak, but made it through the day okay.  We look forward to the class this morning.  Thanks so much for praying. 

Thursday, March 20, 2014

MORE WRITING

Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.Ephesians 4:29

Our words should be sweet and filled with God's love as we speak to others today,
Corrupt words are a sin and never help others, as they live from day to day.
Our words should edify and be a great help to all with whom we speak,
So make it your work to speak kindly today to those who are strong or weak.(RP)

Yesterday, thanks to Margie's work of going through our journals for seed-thought ideas for stories, I was able to write a few more for a future book.  We really enjoy this.  Margie proofs them and then I correct the mistakes.  That part I haven't cared for yet, so we have over 80 stories waiting for me to redo.  That will come later.  This is the first day of spring and I must get our lawn mower to the service people so they can ready it for this summer's activities on the lawn.  That will be a weekly chore for the rest of the summer and into the fall.  A lot of exercise which I am sure I need.  Margie had a good rest last night for which we are thankful.  Thanks for praying.  

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

WEATHER

Matthew 5:14 
You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.

Christians are the light of the world, helping those in darkness find Light.
Each one of us should be busy in this pursuit, for doing this is right.
Standing tall for Jesus is the work we have been given to do,
Lights lifted up will be seen by all, so let His light shine through you,(RP)

Margie got another good report from the ophthalmologist regarding the special visual test they did yesterday on her.  We are grateful for that.  Today the weatherman used the words "ice" and or "snow" in his forecast.   Just yesterday our good neighbor pruned our rose bush.  She had delayed doing it because of the very cold weather we had a few weeks ago.  Now it may come again.  I am continuing writing stories for our next book.  I have almost 80 completed now and more are on the way.  Thanks, dear friends, for praying.

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

DOCTOR

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 seem to get very nervous and uptight about many things.
And because of all this one gets cranky and no longer is joyous or sings.
The Bible gives us the answer: make daily your requests to God,
For the believers who do this sincerely will always get from Him a nod.(RP)

Margie will see the eye doctor today for more testing and follow-up work after her visit to him last week and also the retina specialist last week.  She had a pretty good report and he tested her for new glasses which should help her read better and see things at a distance.  Thank you for praying.  

Monday, March 17, 2014

NO COMPLAINTS

2 Corinthians 6:17 
Therefore come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.

To be IN the world but not OF the world is what Christ commands today,
To do this one has to separate himself from worldly things, I say.
Touch not the unclean, and talk God's talk, in every thing you do,
Strive to obey Him all your life, and your Master's will pursue.
What joy it is to hear Him say, I will receive you my child.
And realize through all of this, my Savior upon me has smiled.(RP)

We have no complaints up here about the weather.  Today it is rainy and windy.  All this is much better than the bitter cold.  Spring is here and flowers and trees are in bloom.  It is a wonderful time of the year to watch God's handiwork in nature.  We appreciated the opportunity to be at church yesterday.  Fellowship and worship are two important parts of our lives and we are thankful Margie is able to attend the services.  In past years we spent many weeks at home. We are blessed.  We thank you for praying for us.  It means much to us. 

Sunday, March 16, 2014

WORSHIP

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Rom 8:31

With God on our side dear believers, how can anyone lose,
For any who doubt His protection they should know He's the best to choose.
When God is for us, what comfort it gives our soul,
Knowing full well all is fine on our side and He has complete control, (RP)

We look forward to Sunday school and church today.  It rained hard during the night and the wind blew.  All "seems" to be calm now. We are grateful we can attend the services.  Yesterday was our usual Saturday.  Margie & I worked doing cooking and dusting/cleaning in the house. I dedicated quite a bit of time for background study for my class in Revelation. Margie is not sleeping the best but is thankful for what sleep she does get.  Thanks for praying. 

Saturday, March 15, 2014

THANK YOU

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name. John 1:12

The gospel is easy to understand in words so simple and plain,
Receiving Christ is the starting point for salvation to obtain.
When we believe what Jesus did and receive Him for our own,
He makes us His children because we believed and now we are never alone.

Yesterday I mentioned that perhaps some would be willing to make a comment on our blog using the space at the end of the page.  We were so pleased with our friend Jacqueline, who we knew in Brazil and attended the church where we worked.  We thank you for your kind remark which encouraged us greatly.  Our Bible class went well yesterday.  Some were ill or traveling but we had one of the best classes as we studied the last of the 7 churches of Revelation.  What practical lessons we are learning from those studies.  Thank you all for your faithful prayer for us and others. 

Friday, March 14, 2014

Friday schedule

Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard thatJesus made and baptized more disciples than Johnthough Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples,He left Judea and departed again to Galilee.But He needed to go through Samaria.John 4:1-4

Jesus walked in obedience to the Father, so to Samaria he NEEDED to go,
What a display of surrender was shown as He faithfully walked here below.
Are we living close to the Lord, desiring always to do His will?
I pray we all are. so the joy will be ours as we obediently His commands fulfill.  (RP)

Our Friday schedule is pretty regular.  This morning we go to the Ferndale Senior Activity Center for the Bible study class.  I will be teaching the last of the 7 churches in Revelation 3.  It is a rich study and so applicable to our present day.  The class is obviously enthused about the study because our numbers continue to increase.  We thank you for praying for us.  It means a lot to us.  Please feel free to leave a comment at the end of this blog which comes right to our email address.   Thanks,

Thursday, March 13, 2014

Lab work

Ephesians 2:10 
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

It's humbling to ponder what God has planned for his own,
His purpose for me is certain, and with Him I am not alone.
He saved me for a reason, and good works are His plan for me,
And I trust that all who read these lines, will readily agree. 
God planned my work long ago, and expects me to obey,
So get in sync with His will, and begin your work today.(RP)

Yesterday morning I took Margie for some lab work.  They drew blood and this test will help her doctor when she visits her next week or so.  It is a yearly process.  We are praying all will be okay.  Our day was plenty busy yesterday with preparing for Bible class, washing clothes and a few other things.  Margie cleaned the bathrooms and prepared meals.  We manage to keep busy whether we want to or not.  We appreciate your prayers for us. 

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Thankful

Jesus looked at them and said, With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God. Mark 10:27

Impossible things are not so with God,He's the One who can do this and more,
So trust Him believer, our God is so great and He'll answer you with blessings galore.(RP)

Margie had another exam by her regular eye doctor and he tested her for another pair of glasses which will enable her to read better and even view things at a distance better.  We are thankful for this. In about two weeks she should receive the glasses.  Thanks for praying.

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

GOOD REPORT

Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard thatJesus made and baptized more disciples than John though, Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples,He left Judea and departed again to Galilee.But He needed to go through Samaria.
John 4:1-4
Jesus walked in obedience to the Father, so to Samaria he NEEDED to go,
What a display of surrender was shown as He faithfully walked here below.
Are we living close to the Lord, desiring always to do His will?
I pray we all are. so the joy will be ours as we obediently His commands fulfill.(RP)

The specialist's report yesterday was good for Margie's eyes.  We are grateful to the Lord for answered prayer.  He gave another injection in the eyeball. It is amazing what modern medicine can do. thanks so much for praying. .  

Monday, March 10, 2014

Retina specialist

Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed   John 8:36 
Those in bondage to sin, listen up, there's hope for you in Christ,
Be sure and come to Him today; you don't need to be enticed.
esus invites you to come to Him so that He can set you free,
And when He frees you from sin, my friend, then you will really see.(RP)

We enjoyed our time at church yesterday and Margie fixed a meal for a friend of ours who joined us for lunch. Our son Rawlie was also here.  Today we take Margie to the specialist for her regular eye check-up.  Thank you so much for praying.

Sunday, March 9, 2014

Church

John 3:17 
For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
Oh what a wonderful God we serve; His love abounds to all,
We understand this amazing grace, and now at His feet fall.
He desires that the world be saved from sin; that's is why He came,
And when mankind receives this gift, they never will be the same. (RP)

The weather is more normal today and we are on a daylight saving time.  We are looking forward to Sunday School.  Last week it was cancelled because of the snow.  Margie had a good night.  Rawlie is here and we always enjoy it when he can spend some time.  We expect a leisurely day.  Thanks for praying.

Saturday, March 8, 2014

GOOD DAY

For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.   II Corinthians 5:21

The heart of the gospel is given here in words so simple and plain,
God laid our sins upon Jesus you see, and won't be repeated again.
When Jesus gave His life for us that day long ago on the cross,
He purchased salvation with His precious blood and we remember the cost,
The righteousness of God is ours by faith and oh what a gift this is,
Eternal life is ours through Him and the glory is solely His (RP)

It was a good day yesterday starting with the Bible study class.  Another full house we had with all tables filled and people sitting in chairs around the room. We are having a wonderful time in the book of Revelation and it is obvious people like to study this book.  Margie had another good night of sleep. Whenever this happens, it is a blessing. Today is stuffed green pepper day and already we have a good start to this process.  I will also try the chiropractor for an adjustment.  Thanks so much for praying. 

Friday, March 7, 2014

BIG DAY

Philippians 1:4
Always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy.

The Apostle Paul has taught us much when it comes to the topic of prayer,
For certain we know that he prayed very much for he mentions it everywhere.
He not only prayed much but was quick to explain his joy in doing this,
What a lesson for us to follow, for doing otherwise we are amiss .(RP)

Yesterday was a big day with the George Hanowell memorial service. A good group was there and it was a pleasure to visit with many friends before and after the service.  Pastor Dave Lunsford and I participated as did also our son Rawlie, who sang and led the singing.  Our grandson, Nathan, also used the roving microphone to pick up comments from guests about George during the service.  Today we have the Bible study and look forward to a good attendance. Some were ill last week and we hope they are better today.  Margie had a couple of nights of very poor sleep, but last night did better for which we are pleased.  Thanks so much for praying for her.  

Thursday, March 6, 2014

WIND AND RAIN

Joshua 1:8 
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.

God gives specific orders when it comes to the Bible we read
We are to mediate faithfully and its teachings diligently heed.
We do this both night and day as we learn to observe the law,
And keep on doing it patiently and determining not to flaw.
God promises our way will be prosperous and success will be our lot,
If we are solid in our convictions and give it all we ought.(RP)

The wind is blowing hard with the rain.  I take Margie to the hairdresser this morning and this after I officiate at a memorial service.  Our son is helping me also.  He will sing a solo and lead the congregational song. Pastor Dave and I will do the other things. I have the message.  Thanks so much for praying for Margie who got very little sleep last night.  

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Stay home day

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.
2Corinthians 8:9

We're told in simple words right here, what Jesus did for us,
And how He came from Heaven's heights, so rich and then made poor.
And when I claim Him as my own He gives me all His wealth,
And shows me from His word each day in Him I'm so secure.(RP)

Yesterday was a rush-rush day.  I am glad we can be home today and get caught up on much that has to be done.  I will finish my message for the funeral tomorrow and do more preparation for Friday's Bible study.  Our son arrives tonight to practice with one of our church pianists, for the service on Thursday.  There is much to do and we thank the Lord for daily strength.  Margie is feeling better after her bout with a cold last weekend.  Thanks so much for praying.


Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Check-up

Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.Jeremiah 33:3

Lord, You tell me to call and You will hear,
Even I can understand this.
May I obey Your command today? 
And never a blessing miss.(RP)

Margie has her post operation check up today.  We think all is well but the surgeon will tell.  This afternoon we will be with the Hanowell family making arrangements for the memorial service to be held Thursday at our church.  Margie was feeling better yesterday for which we are thankful.  She got a cold on Saturday and has been diligently caring for it and it paid off.  Thank you for praying. 

Monday, March 3, 2014

Preparation

John 15:4-5
Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

Abiding in Christ - His provision for us. What a wonderful place to be,
And to think He abides in us. This is so wonderful to see.
We cannot bear fruit alone, we must be in the Vine,
Abiding in the Him brings joy and truly our lives do shine.
Bearing fruit for the Master is our service, we cannot do it alone,
Eternity will reveal our works when we bring sinners to His throne.
I know that I can do nothing without my Savior's aid,
But all that I do is for Him and all the credit upon him is laid.(RP)

Preparations are now being made for the next memorial service which will be Thursday in our church.  I will also be helping the family with more details of the memorial service held last Saturday.  Margie got a cold and was not able to go to church yesterday.  She felt pretty miserable. We pray she will be better today.   She was still sleeping when I started this update. There are plenty of things to do, and we depend on Him to help us through them all.  Thanks for praying.  


Sunday, March 2, 2014

No Sunday School

A sound heart is life to the body,But envy is rottenness to the bones. Proverbs 14:30

God provides His own with hearts that are sound, adjusted to all kinds of life,
Who can take rough places and meet challenges galore and every sort of strife,
But when envy invades any person today, disaster is on the way.
And his or her health will suffer for sure and to improve they better not delay.

Because of the snow that fell last night, we will not have Sunday School.  Later on the church website we will be advised if the morning worship will take place at 10:45.  Things look pretty snowy out there so we really don't know.  Yesterday the memorial service went well.  We also were invited to supper which we enjoyed.  It was great seeing long-time friends who often only get together at funeral times.  It is amazing isn't it?   Thanks for praying for Margie. She is doing better.  

Saturday, March 1, 2014

Norm Robertson Memorial Service

Psalm 46:10 
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! 

We travel along at a fast-paced rate, and don't take time to think,
Too busy to do what we know we should, no time from God's well to drink.
He commands us to stop and be still today, and know that He is God,
This is far better than walking alone, going down life's road roughshod.(RP)

Today we will be at the memorial service. Our family is also coming for the day.  We appreciate your prayers as we preach the message at this service which will be held in the Ferndale High School auditorium.  They expect a large attendance. We are grateful Margie was able to attend the Bible class yesterday morning.  And she plans to go with me to the memorial service.  She is getting stronger and we are thankful.   Thank you so much for your prayer support.