Friday, November 30, 2018

I LOOK FORWARD TO IT

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

Be careful little mouth what you say, is more than just a song,
It is a command from God, and keeps us from doing wrong. 
Christians who encourage others, are doing their Father's will,
Which edifies the recipients and helps them God's will to fulfill.  (RP)

I preached my first message in 1948, and have enjoyed preaching and Bible teaching since that time. Today is Bible study at the Ferndale Senior Activity enter. I look forward to it. We are finishing the book of Esther today, and next Friday.  Thanks for praying.

Thursday, November 29, 2018

LOSS OF A FRIEND

Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints


So many things people hold precious, are really important to them,
This is understood, and for this reason we do not condemn,
When God takes a loved one or friend, it is so very hard to take,
His grace is sufficient for all, and we know He helps every ache,

A dear friend, Jeremy Haws, ended his earthly sojourn yesterday around noon. His entire family was by his side when he departed. How wonderful for a family to give such special support to their loved one, right up to the end. Pray for this dear family, as they claim God's grace in this tender moment. Thanks for praying. 

Wednesday, November 28, 2018

KEEPING SCHEDULES

Matthew 6:33  But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you

To have the best in life  we better do things God's way,
Just listen to His Word and do what He would say.
Seeking Him and all He has for us, we will win,
And He’ll give us what we should have, and that's the way to begin  (RP)

Since my surgery and recovery, I have learned a few things about schedules. My years of teaching in the seminary in Brazil,certainly started me on this. Now, if I start at six in the morning, I will be finished with my morning schedule by nine. Why? Because of the time involved in tube feeding (infusion), and the physical therapies that follow.  And to add to this schedule I have three more infusions before the day ends, each followed by physical therapy. And my time in the Bible and prayer, also has priority. I like schedules. Because of this, I am ready for Friday's Bible class at the Ferndale Activity Center. Thanks for praying.



Tuesday, November 27, 2018

BATTERY OR ELECTRIC

Proverbs 10:19 In the multitude of words sin is not lacking,But he who restrains his lips is wise.

Oh the folly of many words spoken without the heart,
Revealing the sin of the speaker and proving he's not very smart.
The ones who are wise surely restrain their lips, 
Saving themselves from a serious trap and many a heartache skips. (RP)

I put up a different Christmas tree this year.  I debated about having battery operated lights or electric. I started with the battery, but ended up with electric. It worked out easier, using only one string of electric lights compared to several of the battery type, which would have required changing batteries in about 4 control boxes periodically. Thanks, as always, for your prayers. 

Monday, November 26, 2018

YOU NEVER KNOW

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20

For the believer, the world is not home, our citizenship is up there, 
We are here for just a short stay, and this story we want to share.
All who have trusted Jesus, are secure and longing for that day,
When He will call us to heaven where forever we will stay. 
We eagerly wait for His call to take us to heaven, my friend,
If you're ready to go, thank God, for that day your troubles will end. (RP)

Even one with good health is fragile. I attended church, came home, and after my noon infusion, started feeling sick. I wondered about my blood pressure, even though it has been good. I drove to Walgreens and the pharmacist checked my pressure and it was fine. I guess I was just not supposed to feel well. I took it very easy the rest of the day and went to bed early. I feel pretty good today, and have some things I really want to get done. Thanks so much for praying. 



Sunday, November 25, 2018

APPRECIATION

Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.

God's law of retribution always works; He will never be mocked,
No matter what man's answer is or what he may try to concoct.
Don't be deceived by foolish thoughts; they will lead you astray,
And the thoughts and actions sowed today will never go away.
Just level with God and confess your sin; He will forgive you now, 
You will be free from the weight of sin, and at his feet humbly bow.  (RP)

I appreciate my family. Rawlie has been here since Tuesday. He goes home this morning. He is on vacation, but two important projects for his company had to be done. He was here to accomplish that. Rawlie and his family's visits are a blessing to me. So many live alone. I am learning that part of life now. God is so good, and His presence is comforting. Thanks for praying.

Saturday, November 24, 2018

LIFE IS A VAPOR

James 4:14  Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.

We really do not know how long we will really be here,
Most of us agree that life is very special and so dear.
Tomorrow is so  uncertain, we all know this is so,
Just check the obituaries and then you too will know.
Life is likened to a vapor that arises out of the kettle,
Eternity is a spiritual matter that everyone should settle.
Jesus is the way to heaven; receive him for eternal life,
He forgives sin, gives eternal life, and saves from much strife. (RP)

As I talked to a man about his spiritual condition, I was impressed with the views people have about eternity.  This man thought his good deeds would certainly help him into heaven. And he believed the religious club he belongs to helps also' As I carefully explained the Bible way of salvation, he listened, and allowed me to pray with him. He held my hand firmly as we prayed. I gave him a booklet, asking him to read it. Please pray with me he will be saved. Thanks for praying. 

Friday, November 23, 2018

BLACK AND WHITE

John 15:7  If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 

Keep fellowship with Jesus in your life everyday,
Abiding in Him is our blessing, as we walk the way,
As we pray for those things He lays upon our heart,
What joy He gives, as we keep close and don't depart, (RP)

It is called Black Friday, but I really wonder sometimes if it is the right name. For some their experience may be black; for others it will be a day of great fun. But what about white?  Will that be our Christmas name, because we think of all the beautiful snow scenes? Maybe for you it is a matter of black or white. So much for colors. I had a wonderful time with my son and his family at their Thanksgiving treat for Teens Challenge. My grandson spoke to the residents at worship time and my other grandson played the guitar and led in worship. It was great. And for the first time, I partook of the meal with mashed potatoes, gravy and turkey (cut in very small pieces). For desert I had mostly the filling of a pumpkin pie. What a wonderful day. Thanks for praying. 

Thursday, November 22, 2018

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with THANKSGIVING, let your requests be made known to God  Philippians 4:6

Anxiety with worry and fretting, are things that can hinder us.
No prayer,no thanks, no talking to God, are the reason we are in a fuss.
Don't be this way, talk to God in earnest today,  (RP)

My son and his family are hosting today the residents of Teen Challenge, Renton division, for 
an afternoon worship service, followed by a THANKSGIVING meal.  Teens Challenge ministers to those who are fighting addictions. Please pray for this worthy ministry that has helped scores of people to complete recovery and victorious living for Jesus Christ. I am proud of my family who has a heart to minister to these dear people.  Thanks for praying. 

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

WHAT'S NEXT?

Matthew 6:33  But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you

To have the best in life  we better do things God's way,
Just listen to His Word and do what He would say.
Seeking Him and all He has for us, we will win,
And He’ll give us what we should have, and that's the way to begin.  (RP)


Have you often asked yourself the title of this post?  Today is another day to walk with the Lord. I am blessed to have Rawlie with me again. He is doing some important project for his company, and appreciates the fine WiFi reception in my house. That also gives him another time for company here with me. He and his family are so thoughtful.  I will keep on studying for future classes.  My tube feeding has normalized now, and I only have a minimum of pain, which I am praying will go away some day. Thanks for praying.

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

CORRECTION FORM SENT

Proverbs 16:24 Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweetness to the soul and health to the bones

Dear Lord teach me how to speak, so my words are  pleasing  to You,
You make my soul sweet, and my body has strength, for the things I do.  (RP)

Thankfully I was able to send back to the publisher, the second correction form yesterday. Who knows, maybe they will not send a third one. 
I was also able to resolve some issues with my new feeding tube. This, along with  preparation for future classes, kept me going the whole day. I sincerely thank each of you for your prayers. I am honored to pray for you also, when you give me your requests.

Monday, November 19, 2018

GOD ANSWERS PRAYER

We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, (1Thess. 1:2)

Lord I need to enlarge my prayer list and include more people today.
Please show me how to do this, and teach me Lord to pray.(RP)

Through my blog and Facebook postings, more people are following my goings-on. I am pleased about this, because the more people who are praying, is better.  You know already that I was having problems getting the nutrient to go down the new tube. It is slower than in the smaller tube, and presents me with a challenge.  I am happy to report that yesterday's "feedings" were much better. I guess I am learning to cope with the situation, and as far as I am concerned, it is because of prayer.  My new project is how to  change bandages on the tube entry point into my body. There is a large clear disk that fits over the tube and against my body to hold the bandage. This is all new for me. I don't know how to move this disk. I will find out today by calling the experts. Thank you so much for praying. 

Sunday, November 18, 2018

ANOTHER ROUND OF CORRECTIONS

Let us search out and examine our ways, And turn back to the LORD.  Lamentations 3:40

It's easy to look at others and figure out what's wrong with them, 
But God instructs us by saying, "Search and examine YOUR ways.
As you do this with honest reflection a conclusion you'll soon decide,
That obedience to Him gives results that will definitely bless all your days.  (RP)

To my surprise, in yesterday's email, came my book manuscript for another correction.  I started it in the afternoon and worked on it for several hours.  I may have to read the whole thing through again. Yes, I have found mistakes again, but this time mainly ones they had made in formatting.  Another subject: my feeding tube does not work well at all. It does not gravity feed well, and it takes a long time to "eat."  I will check with the specialists tomorrow. It also hurts, but that may be natural because they just put it in Friday. It's all okay, and will work out eventually. Thanks for praying. 

Saturday, November 17, 2018

A NEW LEARNING CURVE

Proverbs 27:1  Do not boast about tomorrow, For you do not know what a day may bring forth.

We quickly make our plans, for the things we want to do,
Carefully things are put in place, and we are on the go,
So often God is not consulted, as we go about our way,
And before we know it, things have changed; it does not pay,
Don't boast about tomorrow; just leave those plans with Him,
Let God choose your way; He will fill your life to the brim. (RP)

I thought things would go easily after the new tube placement, but I soon discovered I have some things to learn. The tube is shorter, and does not have the same system of control as the former one.  The liquid comes out of it between syringe fills, so I have to close it each time and hold it high. I will consult the experts on the subject to get their opinions of how best to do it.
These things challenge me. I already have an idea about a  device that I can build to help me in the process. Thanks for praying. 


Friday, November 16, 2018

STOMACH TUBE PLACEMENT

1 Peter 5:6-7Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

It's easy to be humble when to God your life is given,
Knowing well your life is His, and your sins are all forgiven.
God exalts the ones who humbly come to Him each day,
And their lives are safely resting in His life, which is okay.
And our recourse is so nice, when we cast on Him our care,
Knowing fully, He will help us, and all our burdens bear. (RP)


In a few minutes Rawlie will take me to St. Joseph Hospital where I check in at 7:30 and at 9:00, at the Interventional Radiology Center, my old stomach feeding tube will be replaced by a new one. No, I am not nervous about it. I am resting in Him, who promises to care for me. As soon as I am able, I will give an update. Having never gone this route before, except when it was originally installed, I don’t know what a replacement procedure involves. I do know that the hole into my stomach is smaller than the tube that replaces it, so that will be a challenge for the experts. I leave it with them. Thanks for praying. 

Thursday, November 15, 2018

FEES STUDY

Proverbs 11:6 The righteousness of the upright will deliver them, But the unfaithful will be caught by their lust.

The upright are righteous by God's standard, and He will deliver them all.
In Christ we are made righteous, and what a story each of us can recall.
But sadness awaits the unfaithful, whose lust has led them astray,
And the only thing left for such persons, is heaviness and a life of dismay. (RP)

My Speech and Swallow therapist called, with authorization to begin this study in December. That is good news. Hopefully it will help me keep my talking ability plus one day swallow normally.  Of course, both of these outcomes are in the Lord's hands, and we leave them there. Thanks for praying. 

Wednesday, November 14, 2018

SWALLOW THERAPY

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ  Ephesians 1:3

You don't have to wait to be blessed, because God blesses you right now, 
His heavenly blessings are available now; our Father loves to endow.
Please note he gives every spiritual blessing; what a wonderful gift.
And because they come from Him there is no worry about a shift.  (RP)

In my never-ending battle against "clutter", I was able to get my office in much better shape yesterday. And the good news is that my swallow/speech therapist is working on authorization to continue my sessions. I have been stopped for several weeks. But I still do 150 therapy routines each day, in the hopes that some day I will be able to drink a glass of water, and have a cup of coffee with Rawlie. Rawlie arrived last night. He will take me for my surgery Friday morning. I am so blessed with his kind help. Thanks for praying. 

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

PAPER WORK

Mark 11:25 And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.

When Christians pray, God requires much and He tells us so right here,
If you have been wronged and will not forgive, your state is quite severe.
When we forgive, then God forgives and our communion is so sweet,
And when we treat people like God wants us to, our lives will be complete. (RP)

Do you wonder what paper work is?  For me it is going through accumulated mail.  Sometimes, inadvertently, I find things that I did not expect. I also read several cards sent me after Margie's passing. A few tears, a joyful heart, and thanksgiving for dear friends. I continue that process today. Thanks for praying. Oh yes, and I did send off the correction form for my book. In about 10 days, they said I will receive the manuscript again to inspect. On and on it goes. Thanks for praying.

Monday, November 12, 2018

HOPEFULLY, TODAY

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. 2 Corinthians 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)

Hopefully today I can stop writing so much about my book progress. If all goes as planned, I will submit it today. I fully expect the publisher to tell me that something still might be missing in all the papers I have submitted to them. Thanks for praying.

Sunday, November 11, 2018

IT DID NOT WORK OUT!

Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

The world trust things that are temporal and programs that surely defraud.
But the glorious recourse we have, is to remember the Lord our God. (RP)

I really intended to do as I stated yesterday, but things changed. I received more corrections for my book that Laurel Hicks found, so I spent a lot of time getting those into the proper form to send to the publisher.  I still have more, so will probably send the corrected manuscript to the publisher sometime this week. It has been fascinating doing all these requirements to publish a book. Thank YOU for praying. 

Saturday, November 10, 2018

DE-CLUTTERING

Psalm 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)

You probably don't have my problem. Today I must do some de-cluttering.  Because I use my office a lot, that is where I begin. It is amazing how things can get out of place. The discipline of keeping things orderly is always a challenge. I am hoping for good results as I apply myself to the task of just getting it done. Thanks for praying. 

Friday, November 9, 2018

IT"S FRIDAY

If I regard iniquity in my heart,the Lord will not hear.Psa. 66:18
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Praying to God with unconfessed sin, is a serious thing indeed,
For the truth of the matter is this dear one, if you do you will not succeed. (RP)
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I look forward to Friday, and the Bible class held at the Ferndale Senior Activity Center at 10 AM. This class has been going on for years. We are now studying the book of Esther, and it is a blessing to have the interaction with the class members as we study together this very interesting Bible book. Thanks for praying.

Thursday, November 8, 2018

FIRST TIME

And let us not grow weary while 
doing good, for in due season we 
shall reap if we do not lose heart.
Galatians 6:9
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In doing good we tend to tire but 
the payoff's on the way.
And discouraged we must not 
become as we walk the Lord's 
highway.  (RP)
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Last night at church was the first time I have been able to stay for the prayer time. Normally there are more things on the program, and I always have to leave, so I can get home in time for my 8 pm infusion (feeding tube process).  Last night the program was different and I was able to get in on all the prayer time. It was very nice and I appreciated being able to be part of it. Today Laurel Hicks continues her help for me, as she reads through my book manuscript. Thanks for praying. 

Wednesday, November 7, 2018

TO THE RESCUE

For I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.  Philip.1:11
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It’s hard to learn this lesson, Lord for we who are so weak,
But give us faith & courage, Your will to always seek. (RP)
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The editor of my book Laurel Hicks saw the dilemma I face in trying to meet a deadline on returning the correction form for my book. She volunteered to read the manuscript. This is a tremendous help, and I appreciate it greatly. Please pray for both of us as we read our way through these many chapters again. I am grateful for Laurel's help. Thank you for praying.

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

CHECKING THE MANUSCRIPT

Pray without ceasing  
(I Thess. 5:17)
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Lord teach me how to pray today
And leave my cares with you
And learn the joy of ceaseless prayer 
All the day through. (RP)
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I spent most of yesterday, going over my book manuscript that the publisher sent. I found several major issues that will be corrected, after I complete the form required for that process. I did not want to read the entire book, so have done about one-third, looking for other issues that are more visible as I go through the book. I cannot dedicate much time today to this, because I need to do the prayer sheet for our church, plus attend the missionary meeting this afternoon. Thanks for praying. 

Monday, November 5, 2018

CHANGE OF SCHEDULE

I got a surprises last evening when I opened my email. There was the proof manuscript for my next book. I must go through it, if possible, looking for any last minute corrections needed, before it goes to the publisher. I already found they left out a picture, so will have to correct that. Last night I read several chapters. So my prayer request is that I may be able to detect any other issues as I go through the chapters. I am pleased with the setup, and I thank you for helping me in prayer. 


Philippians 2:3
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves

Look what God wants you to do today.
The kids will say,"It will blow you away".
Selfish ambition is on the no no list.
To this God will always and rightly insist.
Don't be conceited in anything you do,
This proves to Him that you are really true.
In humility consider others better than you,
Soon you will learn things that you never knew.  (RP)

Sunday, November 4, 2018

STORMY NIGHT

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

You read the Bible and it seems so dull and dry,
Why don't you pray and really give it one more try.
God will answer your prayer with something great,
He will show you things that are classed as first rate.
You don't know all God wants you to know just yet,
Give Him time and you'll learn things and not forget. (RP)

I don't have to tell anyone who lives in this part of Whatcom county, that we had quite a storm last night. It started with plenty of rain, then the winds came. It is still dark outside, so I have no idea  what damage was done, or things moved around by the violent winds.  All I know is that the activity did keep me awake for awhile. I am glad the Lord is the controller of these things, so we just accept what He sends our way. Thanks for praying and I trust you set your clocks back, and will be going to church this morning. Rawlie returns home to his family and church this morning. 

Saturday, November 3, 2018

SURPRISE VISIT

For the word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword. 
Hebrews 4:12
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The Bible, God's word is so powerful, and meets us where we are,
It cuts through the glitter of life and will do it without leaving a scar.
The Bible has answers to life's problems; you would be wise to look,
Take time to read what God says about YOU in this wonderful Book.
Be alert as you read this Book; it reveals your weakness for sure,
Follow its precepts my friend; God will cleanse and make you pure. (RP)
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Rawlie, my son, called to say he was coming to Ferndale. He has some business matters to care for, and wanted to spend the night here. What wonderful news!  While here, he also told me he wanted to be with me when I have the surgical placement of my new stomach tube, November 16. What great news that was for me, because I was wondering who I would ask. I have many friends who would help me, but it is very nice that Rawlie will do it. Thank you all so much for your prayer support. It means so much to me.  



Friday, November 2, 2018

APPOINTMENT CHANGE

Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 
Romans 12:15
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Learn to relate to others in the things they feel each day,
Some are hurting badly; some are very happy and okay.
Learn to weep or laugh with those who need your touch,
You will soon discover that you have learned so very much.
God is looking for those who will heed this word today,
And help a fellow traveler who needs you along the way.  (RP)
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Wednesday they changed my appointment time. I went that day for my examination of the peg tube instead of yesterday. While there I also did the lab work across the street at the hospital, for the the medical procedure, tube placement, which will be, Lord willing, November 16, at 7:30 am. Thank you so much for praying. 

Thursday, November 1, 2018

PARKING LOT PARTY


The First Baptist Church of Ferndale, Washington Parking Lot Party last night was an honor to the Lord. Yes, there were plenty of wonderful things for the children to enjoy. Booths with  many ways to test ones skills and win a prize were available.  An abundance of candy was there for those who wanted to trick or treat, and plenty of delicious food also. Music was provided by our church worship team, which added greatly to the evening enjoyment. The Gideons distributed New Testaments, and several were circulating among the crowd, telling people about Jesus. What a blessing. We thank EACH of you. Thanks for praying

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John 12:32 And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.
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What the world needs is Jesus; we must tell them the story,There is no choice on our part; the command is mandatory.If we will just faithfully lift up Jesus by our lives and lips today,He will use what we have done for Him in an ordinary way.When He is proclaimed,people are drawn to Jesus our Lord,And I assure you dear Christian, when done, this is your reward.  (RP