Splashes of Envy

Looking out over the private alcove of sparkling green water…. Envy grew.

Here I have seen sunrises beautiful….sunsets indescribable.  I had splashed in the ocean several times at the beach on Waikiki.  I had some epic moments of worship.  I had some great rest and relaxation.  I had take a drive around the island taking in spectacular views of the volcanic mountains.  I watch whales dance in the majestic ocean.  I had seen surfers claim curl after curl.

Yet at that moment…..

I was envious of what I didn’t have.

We had pulled into a famous site seeing pullover.  The blowhole.  Totally awesome thing.  As waves  crashed into the rocks below, there was a tunnel in the rock in which water would spout up threw causing ocean spray to go way up in the air.  Very cool! 

While way up on this bluff you could look out at the majestic ocean.  The views of the rocks, ledges, boulders and water were incredible.  Below on the left was an alcove where the ocean came in on a small beach. 

The water was gorgeous.  A hand full of people were down on the beach enjoying the emerald green water. Riding the waves.  Laughter could be heard.  On three side were great boulders and cliffs. 

I wanted to go down there and dip my feet in the water.  No what I really wanted to do was….get on my bathing suit and get all the way in the water…and ride those fantastic waves myself!

I was jealous…..

There was no way I could transverse those rocks to get down there. I don’t swim and I bet that the water where the waves actually were would be over my head.  Not to mention they had to be pretty powerful.  And though I wished the water to be warm.  It had been freezing all week, why did i think suddenly just because it looked like a picture book that it would suddenly be warmer?? Like it was probably really dangerous!  There were warning signs. 

It looked really cool the rocks people were climbing on and waving.  But if the truth be known, that takes a lot of strength.

The scene below me was picturesque, that is true.  I saw it through fairytale glasses.  When in reality…I would have been miserable If I had attempted to get down there, cold if I had gotten in the water.  No telling if I would have gotten hurt…..

Not so beautiful huh?

But here is the lesson my sweet Jesus showed me….my ugly heart. Here I had received so much during my week of vacation…..yet I wanted more.

Is that ugly or what?

Envy is ugly. 

Thank You Lord for showing me my ugly heart.

Contentment and Gratitude are Beautiful!

But godliness with contentment is great gain.

I Timothy 6:6

Native Citizenship

From the moment we arrived in Hawaii we were surrounded by a large Asian population.  I try not to get my dander up hearing the constant “babble” of another language.  I found my heart in a myriad of emotions.  From resentment to frustration back to the song, Jesus loves the little children……all the children of the world…..red yellow black and white….

I have lived in cultures with a majority of blacks and I have lived in a majority Mexican community.  Both of which I have come to love.  But for some reason, I felt a moment of “This is not your country….what are you doing here?” attitude.

I struggled with it all week.  Asians are everywhere from who was serving me, cleaning my room, to the tourist next to me.  It was so confusing it seemed there were few actual Hawaiians.  So this remain on my heart…..

Then we went to the Pearl Harbor Memorial.  Where I understood a bit more of that sobering piece of history and the surrounding consequences.

There were many Japanese people who were harshly treated, shunned and not trusted.  Because of their heritage they were assumed to be the enemy…..I can not imagine what that must have been like to try to convince “white man” that you were on his side when you have dark skin, slanted eyes and a foreign accent…all of which they were fighting against.  Those same skinned people had just destroyed our ships, planes and killed hundreds of lives.

But the Lord showed me….if is not nationality that makes you belong…it is citizenship.  Was their name written in the American Citizens Book?  Their certificate of identity is what made them belong not their nationality. 

Likewise, it is not our heritage….sinner...thief…adulterer…murderer….lier….selfish….

But Whose we become… a child of The King….gets a new citizenship…a Heavenly certificate.  Anyone can become a citizen of Heaven….

It made me accept these people much different than I upon the papers that states they are American just like me….not their nationality.  They have accepted a new life.

If you have a new life as a child of the King….do you stand out?  Do people see you are different by your love?

By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

John 13:35

Homeless or Hopeless

This is a hard blog to process because I have more questions than answers.  I don’t feel qualified to even write about the topic.  Yet those of you who know me….I must write about what is on my heart.  And just so you know…..my thoughts are all across the spectrum on this topic.  I am just going to throw it out there….

As you can imagine in a place called “Paradise” all kinds of people come to visit.  The locals here also come from many walks of life.  I was not really surprised to see “homeless” yet I have never seen this many.  Even while we lived in CA did I see this many. 

I was struck speechless as I jogged along the waters edge the first morning here.  There were people sleeping on the beach.  I call them my Sand people.  All along the shore here and there, were bundles of sand people. Though I thought it was a “cool” idea to sleep on the beach out under the stars to the constant sound of crashing waves.  Somehow I don’t think this was the sentiment of the sand people. 

Up near the boardwalk area at the beach tree line were the root people.  I call them that because under this one tree was a couple asleep then when I turned the bend of that same tree, there was a body asleep in the alcove of the roots of the same tree.  I nearly jumped when I saw it. 

Then on we went to the city streets following the jogging route. There was many bench buddies if you will.  Almost every other bench was a bed for someone.  I realized that the city had tried to rectify this problem by putting a huge bar arm rail in the middle of the benches.  But these homeless did not care.  Not to mention, one young kid was asleep on the bench next to the police station. So evidently either it is not illegal or the city just gave up because it is a rampant problem here in Waikiki. 

There were many that I call street sleepers.  I am not sure why, but they were bedded down right next to the street (I would be afraid of rolling over and falling into the street while asleep) A group I call the Mocha mob, stake out their place right in front of Starbucks every night.  I saw one of them get up and drag all their belongings on a tarp across the busy street.

But by daylight, the hundreds of homeless suddenly just vanish.  But as the week went on, I began to see them in the day time too.  It is just that by daylight the streets are flooded with locals and tourist alike that the homeless blend in…

But is you look, still under the floral pavilions they are asleep on tables or in chairs.  Or doing their “day jobs.”

Like Plastic man.  I watched many a man (and women do this too) hit all the trash cans for plastic bottles (this is gross to me to be diggin in, and emptying someone else's stuff!)  They pulled a cart behind, then they would be back again in less than an hour, doing the route again. 

Then there was Robert….. Robert put on some clean clothes ,a hat and went around selling island tours.  We were kind and listened.  My heart broke for him. In his intoxicated stupor, he had a hard time squatting down as he presented his island”wares” to  us.  He was trying. I don’t know whether his tours were legit or not, we kindly declined the offer as we had already made our plans.  All I could think was…..he reminded me so much of my dad and wonder if no one had had pity on us….we were often hungry.

The last homeless I want to show you was burrito man.  Right smack dab in the middle of the sidewalk was a person wrapped up head to toe in a blanket.  But at his feet there was a sandwich in a plastic container.  This was the sight I can’t get out of my mind! I did not take a picture and wish I had. 

Even now, tears threaten to consume me.  From what I gather, someone had shown kindness on this burrito man, and set a sandwich at his feet, to eat when he woke.

What a ministry!  My heart was overwhelmed by the sight…..it was a sight of love in action!  Don’t know if they knew the person, if it was a stranger or whether it was a church group that did this for all the homeless.(which would be ALOT of sandwiches.  Though it was the only one i saw this with a sandwich). 

I am left with a heavy heart…..I want to help.  How do I help?  Should I help? My heart is tender……

Yet, I also struggle with treating these people with the same integrity I wish to be shown to me.  They are beautiful in God’s sight made in His image too.

One of the things I observed with many was this:  many of them talk to themselves.  Now there may be a scientific/drug/mental reason.  But the visual God showed me was this:  They talk to themselves because they don’t have a friend.  No one gives them time of day.  It is heart wrenching.

I asked my husband this question:  Do you think these people, Robert for example, even thinks he is less fortunate than we are?  Are they happy where they are.  I know many times it is perhaps a choice, yet we also know that in other cases it  can not be helped.

That posed a question in my mind…..are they homeless or hopeless?  Why do we associate (or maybe it is just me!)  The homeless with hopeless.  Why do I find it hard to wrap my brain around the fact that some of these dirty, mangy looking street people could be saved.  Why is that so hard for me.  Just because they are homeless doesn’t mean they are hopeless.

I struggle with this, not that it is a new thing, like I said having lived in CA for years, I am not unfamiliar with the homeless scene.  Though  I will reiterate, this was totally magnified by far.  I wish for a way to help.  I do know, I don’t want to have a hard heart about it.

I must ask God to show me what to do………..I will do something

I encourage you to reach out of your comfort zone……somehow, someway to those in need, whether  you think they are deserving of it or not…..

Perhaps you and I are only 3 paychecks away from being a bench warmer ourselves. 

In all these thoughts…. I am reminded… Jesus was homeless!

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,
I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me,

I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?
When did we see you a stranger and invite you in,

or needing clothes and clothe you?
When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

Matthew 25;35-40

 

The SON Finds Me

I know this is a simple concept.  Science is not my strong suit, so I am gonna probably make you laugh at the simplicity of this thought…..

As I have watched the sunset every night here in Hawaii, I have noticed this amazing thing.  No matter where I am, along the shore, the SON is always directly in front of me when I look out to watch the sunset!

Whether at the hotel or miles down the beach, I stop to watch the magnificent sunset only to be amazed once again by The SON!

It is a moment of divine connection between The Son and me. Just the two of us. His message:  let my love shine through you, Laura, you are my hands and feet.  I love you to death……

No matter where you are….the SON can always reach you! 

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,  Or nor heavenly rulers} neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:38-39

 

Clouded View

This morning lesson was brilliant though rough to see.  I got up late after a restless  night.  We  hurried and readied, downed the hotel room coffee and headed out the door.  But one thing I have learned, life starts early here (if I might just say it never sleeps here!)

Sadly, though our teenage son decided this morning was the day he wanted to spoil for a fight.  So that is how the morning began.  Not good…..

We began our jaunt…. though I had great praise music on, my heart was too broken to worship in it.  I trudged along, not able to do much running….I eventually gave up.  But had to keep walking, my body filled with pain both inside and out, I trudged on. 

Simple things make me happy and one of the things I have wanted to do most was just sit on a bench in the early morning and watch the waves…just Jesus and me…..well that didn’t happen either.

It seemed that God was distant.  There were too many obstacles in the way… my vision was clouded by the argument, my burden for another son, the pain my body was experiencing, the fact that we had gotten up late and people were already crowding the streets at 6 am…..

God seemed so far away……

Then to top off my not so good morning….. I missed the sunrise!  Or so I thought.

I followed my husband and son out on a long pier.  I wondered what the deal was, since it was already daylight.  I waddled myself to them and asked what they were doing.

“I thought you wanted a picture of the sunrise?” my husband replied.

“Yes I did, but don’t you think you are a bit too late?” I said sarcastically pointing to the fact that…hello, it is like daylight look around!”

Looking at  his watch he told me it was still to come….

So I watched for it….

I really did not think we would see anything.  I was confused.  It was already daylight.  There was no sun to be seen in the direction of the sunrises we had seen days before.

All I could see was Diamond head (a mini mountain/volcano thingy), tall sky rises and a bunch of clouds.  I thought to myself, there is no way the sunrise will make it past all that. 

Yes, my view of the SON was clouded by many obstacles.  I couldn’t help but think that God had given me this visual.   I too had allowed many things to cloud my view of the SON this very morning. 

Yet, if I wait upon the Lord, He will rise up and show Himself all powerful and glorious!

I waited, thinking this is a waste of my time…..

Until, I saw the top of the clouds turn pink, the SON beams shining through.  Still had not seen the fullness of the SON, but I knew it was coming….if only I would wait I would see the glory of the Lord….

I waited….

I noticed one of the clouds had it’s hand raised giving glory and honor to the King….that was so cool to see. 

Then, it happened….He overcame….The SON did rise, despite the obstacles in the way….Nothing can keep the SON from rising in our hearts…..we only need to look to the sky and all will be well with our soul…..

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart!

I have overcome the world."

John 16:33

but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,

they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:31

Multi-Million Dollar Complacency

I was told this morning by our shuttle driver that over 24 % of the population here in Hawaii are multi million dollar residents.  wow!  So now i know how they got that way…….the prices we have paid from postcards to ice cream to the entrance to a state park.Everything cost here.  Or perhaps because they are here folks can demand that pricing. 

But….it is an unpleasant side of this place. Just as epic is the beauty i have seen, so is the tourists.I am convinced (outside of NY) there must be more tourists than residents! it is unreal.  Phenomenal.  The tourist industry is huge.  Without it it would probably be the US largest unemployment surge! 

Sadly, most don’t seem to enjoy their job.  I can not imagine serving tourists year round.  Yet if it is your job, part of that job is for the visitors to feel special, not another slab of meat. 

Everywhere you turn, the occupation somehow is connected to the tourism.  It is really interesting.  I have noticed a thick cloud of complacency in the midst of the locals who work here.  I have only meet two people who seemed to really like their job. 

I wonder just how complacent the locals have become.  Then i got my answer…..

By day 4 of our vacation, I noticed that on my walk to the beach, that I no longer stopped to admire the ornate shrubs/trees that lined the pathway.  I didn’t take anymore pictures of the passion flowers, or the woven strands of climbing floral.  The Amazon like leaf tunnel trails no longer amazed me….I just walked through complacency stealing over me!

It seems it doesn’t matter where you are or what you are doing, complacency can rob you of today's joy and tomorrows promise.  we need to guard against this and pray that God keep us keenly aware of his beauty and our duty in this world. 

If it is that easy to be to become complacent about our surroundings, how much easier it is to become spiritually complacent.  To forget those around you and the message that we carry or should be carrying to a lost world.

May we get on our faces daily lest we become complacent and our God opportunities pass us by.

A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.

Proverbs 25:11

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Galatians 6:9-10

He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.  Matthew 16:15

Power Run

 

When we go on vacation we have certain expectations.  This time was no exception.  Our flight had been great (as well as being squeezed into a sardine can and bulleted through the skies, using a tiny tiny bathroom and breathing in everyone’s breath, and hearing crying babies.)  But really no complaints. 

The air hitting my nostrils as I exited the airport.  It felt like CA….no humidity a slight breeze of maybe 70 degrees.  I had to stop and take in a deep breath.  Ahh, this is going to be great I thought.

Doing the usual…hailing a taxi, looking out the window at this new land, wondering what lies ahead.  Checking into the hotel, which is an open air lobby.  Looking at their cool Christmas decorations (which seemed all wrong for the weather!) 

Finally to the room…..unpack, check everything out….be sure there is coffee!  Then on to the beach….check it out then food!  Balcony time was cool, the beach was packed, I wondered if this was going to be as much “fun” as I hoped it would be. 

The next morning…was what I had been waiting for….time with me and my God on the balcony alone just the two of us….I had prepared the night before. I had not brought my Bible trying to keep packing down.  But had got a Kindle for Christmas, with my Bible on it.  So I had my kindle, blanket, back pillow ready to slip out for this time of Paradise with my Lord.

Well….guess what, early I rose and slipped out.  Got all comfy and I could not read my kindle!  I didn’t know I needed a light!  So that was a bummmm…. So i just prayed.  And with a burdened heart I pour out to God to fill me and to let this vacation be overflowing with His presence in my days.  I spent a long time in prayer since i would not read the Word, I simply worshiped Him….

This is how He answered me….

We dressed, my husband, son and I went for a run.  With Chris Tomlin in my left ear, singing Amazing Grace my chains are gone, Jesus Messiah, Holy is the Lord, I will Rise, How great is our God, Our God, We Fall Down, and Indescribable…….and the crashing waves in the other….I worshipped like never before….

I have no idea how far I ran, I didn’t care, but the worship and praise under the stars, on the sandy shore with waves of grace washing over my soul…Is indescribable.  God did answer my prayer more than I could have expected. 

It was just me and Him…..in ultimate adoration!  All I can think…is heaven must gonna be something like this!  That one hour of time, made this vacation worth it, and I am sure out of all the things we do, see and eat, nothing will compare….to that Power run this morning!

 

Paradise or Pair-a-dice?

 

Hawaii ---- the Land of Paradise as people call it.  Really?  Well that is where my family is headed for a much needed vacation.  On the flight over I have been reading Francis Chan’s book on Hell. 

So with what the world calls Paradise and what God calls paradise are vividly on my mind.  I anticipate seeing some of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen.  I know my nostrils will inhale the beauty floras indescribable.  My body will relish in the majestic vast ocean, splashing with disgruntled sea inhabitants (they don’t like tourist!)  And I plan to eat fresh sweet pineapple….

Though our plans may be simple….we will enjoy the beauty God has created.  Yet the feast upon God’s word over this past year, can not compare.  He is the rare Jewel that leads to the treasure house full.  He is the one who created this beauty, and even what I will see will be very marred by man.  Can  you imagine what The Garden of Eden was like…

So back to the question….do we, you and I, seek Paradise as in Heaven from Hell’s point of view.  Do we believe there is a Hell, and that it is torment beyond comprehension.  That is is an eternity existing in God’s wrath and a lake of fire over flowing with the sins of all there.  Are we flippant, uncaring or complacent, like the rolling of a Pair-a-dice…in a gamble of where we will go when our life on earth is done? 

I for one don't want to take a chance, a gamble, on whether or not I will spend Paradise with my Jesus.  Heaven from Hell’s perspective should move you to share with others, the true Paradise and that this earth will fade away one day….

Paradise or a Pair-a-dice Which “Roll” will you be on?

Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.
  Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea,

and gathered of every kind:
  Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered

the good into vessels, but cast the bad away.
  So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and

sever the wicked from among the just,
And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 13:46-50

A Thomas Kincaid Christmas

 

An email came across my this week describing what kind of Christmas I must be having.  This person only briefly knows my through my books.  We have met over coffee and keep an email relationship.  She knows the general area where I live yet has never been to my house. 

Bless her heart, she had described this beautiful Thomas Kincaid picturesque Christmas that she was assured I was having.  You know the kind…..

The immaculately clean house with decorations delicately placed.  The house toasty with a crackling fire in the fireplace.  Sitting with grandma’s quilt, kitting in my hands while pies cool in the kitchen, apple cider filling the air.  The noise of happy children playing contently.  And delightful conversation of older adult children.  Presents all wrapped and snuggled under the tree.

A beautiful Christmas tree donned the corner with ornaments saved over the years.  Dinner with all the trimmings soon the grace the long table filled with excited family.  Everyone home, all getting along, giving the best to the other person, laying down their own desires for other family members. 

The dog curled up by the fire, the cat next to him contently purring.  The Spirit of peace and love filled the air.

This woman knowing I am a fiction writer….just thought I would have a fiction Christmas…..Okay camera man……turn to camera this way….to reality!  Okay, let’s be real…..

There is fire wood, at least a few peices, may have to cut some more before the day is over.  But we don’t have a fireplace!  That is our heat and we are gonna be freezing our tushes if we don't get out there and cut some.  And never mind the mud trail coming in the back door.  But then again you probably had to step over a bag of trash that never made it down the driveway to the trash trailer.  OOpps!

The decorations, mix matched that they are, at least move the dust around so that everyone is sneezing.  And the poor tree, who knows…you get what you get when it’s live and by Christmas day needles cover the floor!  Two years ago, the tree fell over breaking some of our dated ornaments. 

Oh and the grumblings of stringing popcorn and cranberries can be heard by the neighbors, but not near as loudly as the wailing of Christmas card making days! Of course back aches from days of baking preceded these days.

The beautiful description of the Nostalgic Christmas was touching.  I have thought upon her words for days.  Thought about what Nostalgic means.  I too would have loved her description to be true, but one thing Nostalgia has is…. perfect people & perfect settings & perfect endings.  I like to think that Heaven will the epic Nostalgia. 

Because what she didn’t see….in her imagination and heart…

Putting up a Christmas tree with disinterested children.

Having Thanksgiving the day after with a split crew of sons and girlfriends.

A prodigal son, whose relationship was several damaged with his mother and whole family over the past two years.  This was his first Christmas away.  It comes with all that baggage….

A son who could only spare a few hours two days after Christmas….even those few hours he was tired and there was bickering among the children.

A 16 year old rebellious teenager who knows everything in the world and is in a constant state of disrespect.

A husband who is doing the best he can but is effected by all the same things as myself, but does not always know how to help.

And a body that is in constant pain, and there is still Christmas dishes to wash!

What is Nostalgic about all that?

I don’t want to bust her bubble.  What she wrote is really true, but you have to look at it through the correct lens….

The Season from Thanksliving…..through Christmas:

Was filled with:

Baking for my friends.

Taking a loaf of bread to each of my neighbors with a Christmas card…..visiting with them.

Meeting a lonesome woman and her son and helping her with food, money and friendship…just loving on her.

Being a friend to her son when no one else gives him time of day.  To take him to the movies and let him spend the night over.

Taking baskets of goodies and cards to the elderly and singing to them.

Hugging a neck of a friend who is struggling and wiping her tears. Assuring her New Mercies each morning.

Taking another friend for coffee who husband had just got his termination papers….praying with her.

My son bringing a gang of teens over with 5 min notice!  Love it…messy house, who cares get out the popcorn popper and cookies!

Another friend lost her step mother Thanksgiving day…she is a close friend calling her, praying for her.

Another friend’s son walked out in a mad rage on Christmas day…she called me a few days later for help.

Emails, phone calls. Visits to encourage those God puts in my pathway and most of all prayer for them.

Meeting Jessica and offering her help during this very trying time and getting to meet a new friend on that same day.  Making cards to bless others.

Christmas cards to friends far and wide…the time making them with my unwilling family..but the blessing they have been to others.

Doing things way out of my box…..

Worshipping my God like never before…

Seeing Redemption on every street corner.

Back to this beautiful area I live in….chopping wood in the freezing cold…is NOT nostalgic.

But here is the new lens view:

I am Thankful my prodigal was here…he is showing signs of change…not where I want him to be with the Lord, but closer than last year.  There is hope for him.  Can I trust in my prayers for God to work in  his life.  He even called me yesterday to thank me again for making Christmas so wonderful for him.

My other son, has to walk his faith journey too….I am thankful I had any time with him at all.  He is not disrespectful.  I am thankful we live only 4 hours away and that he has a good lady friend that will point him closer to God.

My 16 year old got another glimpse of his brothers areas that he does not want to follow after.  That is good for him to see.  We have had a good few days.  That is something to be thankful for. 

I forget to be grateful I have a husband who loves me and cares.  He does not always express that but I am reminded of the loneliness many experience during the holiday season and it makes me thankful I am not alone.

And I will always hurt physically and I did end up sick, but have got some meds and am on the mend.

So  you see, out here in the country we were toasty warm, there was love and laughter.  There were tears of repentance.  There were new memories being made, new pictures being carved in our family.  There were hurtful words and there were mending words.  There was play and there was work. There was popcorn and cranberry stringing for the Christmas tree….there was much joy in our hearts because the joy comes from within….and none of those outward situations could take that away from me.  I love Christmas because I love Jesus…and He is the One who my thoughts and actions stay centered on (at least I try!) He is the one who wipes my tears and holds my hand and keeps me going.  Yes, the Spirit was thick among us…..for that I am eternally thankful.

And I still did the dishes…..but with joy as I prayed and thanked the Lord for my imperfect family having the imperfect Christmas….because one day we will have the perfect Christmas…when we see Him face to face….until then….it’s all about Nostalgia!

The Covering

 

The Covering

A mitten is a form of covering

For cold weather and storms hovering

They are needed to warm the hands

In all of winters work and play demands

Nostalgia puts mittens on display

For riding through the snow in a sleigh

Or fun building a snowman in the cold

And snowball fights between the young and old

Winter brings us to a special season

Marking Jesus' birth is the reason

A King born, a human babe, grew up

Humiliated, beaten and given a bitter cup

On the cross He gave up His Life for me and you

His blood covering our sins both in and out of view

Realize the magnitude of the sacrifice that was given

His death enables us to go to Heaven

His love covers us like a mitten

By His Life have you been smitten?

“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.”

Ephesians 2:13

Merry Christmas

With love ~ The Wiggin Family

Merry Christmas

J is for Joshua. He is 20 this year! He’s had a big year. Seems like he is in the season for big years lately! Last September Josh signed up for the US MARINES in a delayed program. While Josh waited for the call, he worked steadily at Wal-Mart, stocking shelves and giving away smiles…what he does best! Then in April, nearly a month early, he called me from town saying they had called and he was leaving in two hours! SO in a mad rush to get him his things and get him to Huntsville, this was his welcome into the US MARINES. (He has never done things the easy way!) The following 8 months are way too harsh to write about. Sherman and I prayed for him a lot! The things he went through at boot camp, School of Infantry, and his personal training, were weeks of intense break down like he had never known. He also conveyed that he learned lessons that could not have been learned any other way. And that he saw God in ways like never before. So all in all, he was thankful to have gone through what most would consider hell on earth. He ended up, funny enough, selected to (not go to Afghanistan with his buddies) but to go to Washington DC for Ceremonial Drill tour for two years. Though a shock, and so opposite of what he was trained for or expected, he is enjoying the “beni’s” that working right on Capitol Hill offer him. He loves running in the monument areas and all the big city perks (like real cell service—not rotary dial up!!), though he tells me every day on the phone, he misses my cooking and being at home in our old fashioned simple life style. He has many adventures ahead of him. We are just trusting that he will run hard after the things of God wherever God takes him. We are trusting and praying….

E is for Encouragement. As long as it is today…encourage someone in the Lord. It has been humbling to watch God bring forth my dreams of sharing His love to others. Though it has not been without it’s trials, I have learned that each of these hardships have been there to make me more and more compassionate, to love deeper than before and know His comfort in new way. How can I comfort a broken heart without having one, How can I care for the sick without being sick, How can I share the Grace of God without first experiencing His grace in mighty ways? Mountain tops in the mundane….I must experience it before teaching it. The Ripple Effect Conference is taking off slowly but firmly with God taking me and my speaking partner every step of the way. My dream to be a conference speaker and tell others just how AWESOME my Jesus is…is happening! That is very exciting. Along with that I still sit with a friend over a cup of tea, wipe a tear, pray over a crying mother, advise a teen, put together missionary projects, encourage the weary! That is what getting your assignment everyday day looks like. LOTS of life happens around here because God is using His servants to comfort and encourage others…..may you find yourself asking Him for your assignments this next year…I promise He will answer! Trusting and lots of praying…

S is for Samuel. He just turned 22 a few weeks ago!! We praise God for him every day! Boy it seems strange to be writing this letter with a 22 year old! He has had a big year too! He has grown into a wonderful young man! He had been working in a West Tennessee Penitentiary since the January before last. And then last November he switched to working for the Sherriff’s Department in Henderson County as a jailer, hoping of course to move up and eventually into the TBI or the like. But that didn’t happened but instead….there came along a GIRL…and as they say….the rest is history! Now things are different. In considering he needed a better income and his sweet girlfriend lives near where he worked at the penitentiary…guess what he did recently? He went back to his old job. He has brought Laura home several times and we love her! We have much to be thankful for this Thanksliving! Samuel loves Jackson, where he went to Union University and plans to stay around the area. He is currently splitting rent with a school buddy. We pray Sam deepens his love for God. Trusting….lots of praying….

U is for us. Sherman and I celebrated our 29^th anniversary this year! We went to New York! It is something we have never done. It was strange for it to only be the three of us. But Zechariah didn’t seem to mind milling around NY with old people (yes we are getting old!!) It was a place like no other. Yes I was inspired to keep my keyboard busy but I have been too busy with volunteer projects to get much writing done…..hummm maybe we will have to go back, I can claim in my old age I forget easily!! But then that would mean outrageous toll fees (like over $100), nearly being run over by taxi drivers and jumping in and out of crammed subways. Oh and be with thousands of non-English speaking tourist and unhappy locals. Germ-X took on new meaning on that trip! BUT we did end the trip with Niagara Falls and that was so beautiful…beyond description. I did write a few blogs on this trip you can check out. We are happy and still very much in love! We took several trips (3) to see Josh. One to each of his schools including his Graduation from Parris Island….which was the first time we saw him in 13 weeks. Then to visit while in SOI and lastly we took him his car for his birthday….while there we went to Arlington Cemetery…..I said as I left…..”I could write in this place!” Sherman crinkled his forehead….and said, “You get inspired in the weirdest places!” Guess who is writing a book about Arlington Cemetery?????

S is for Sherman. He is still working for DIA at Redstone in Huntsville. He still loves his job! His favorite thing at work is to try to tell me (Laura) how to use or fix my wayward computer over the telephone!! Ugh! A patient man! He did go to Australia this past February and he loved it! The pictures were cute of the kangas! He still enjoys cutting wood for our heater every year, only he can barely walk afterwards! He’s been riding his bike a lot more this year and at times we do it as a family! AND he has even started running a bit….who knows he might outrun us all yet! He still teaches Sunday School and helps with the youth. He still blogs so if you are a computer person, check out his articles. You are sure to be challenged and encouraged to walk more humbly with God. But mostly he spends time with his boys and Laura. Those are his favorite things! He has our house up for sale…..gas prices and fewer kids at home has us looking at moving closer to his work. Trusting and lots of praying...

I is for Internet. I am trying my best to stay up with the electronic “times”. We are ALL on Facebook. If you are, PLEASE Friend me (us). A great way to stay in touch. Also you can take a peek at our hearts by way of our blogs…..

www.The-Weekly-Thread.blogspot.com (Laura) *

www.TNThoughts.blogspot.com (Sherman)

www.laurawiggin.tateauthor.com Laura’s Book (The Bus Ride) web page. You can also go to her book email, etsy store & blog spot from there….love for you to leave a response! Contact her for speaking engagements and testimony sharing opportunities!

www.therippleffects.com is Laura’s conference website

www.rockwithjosh.com Joshua’s web page

wavesofgracehome@gmail.com (our regular email address) send us your updated email please!

105 Raby Hollow Rd (our mailing address if you wanna send us some snail mail….we still check our mailbox!!) Fayetteville, TN 37334

(931) 759-6855 (old fashioned phone number)

Z is for Zechariah. He turned 16 this year! He is growing up fast! A handsome young man! He has kept his curls GONE! He is doing great in school, now in the 11th grade. Zech is built like a football player, big broad across the shoulders and strong. His favorite team is Alabama. He keeps up with the team as much as possible. He has been training faithfully. In Sept. he ran a “sprint” triathlon, his first. He did great in all three areas, swimming, biking and running. He was toast after that but it was a great experience and he wants to do it again. He also ran a few 5 Ks too. He has slimmed down in all his training….Hummmm….makes me think he is getting ready for this thing called GIRLS! He loves to collect knives and throw the football around. Daisy the wild & hyper lab puppy, now fully grown….keeps us on our toes. We call her the bullet dog for a reason. When we let her off her line….she runs like a bullet train all over the place! She is adorable but we still have not managed to get her back into the house! Zech still aggravates Stryper (the cat). He consumes books like candy (sometimes both at once!!). He has his permit and is ready to get his license…but we are not! Trusting and praying….

L is for Laura. Laura’s big news is that her 3^rd book A Season of Rebuilding (in A Season for Everything Series) came out this year! If you did not get her second book called The Beat of My Heart! You still can, just let her know. If you loved Peter and Lilly in the first one, The Bus Ride. You got to see them in the second one! It has many of our California memories and favorite sightseeing places all mixed into a fabulous story of Hope! The journey has been an absolute humbling experience seemingly all in one big blur! It all happened so fast and still continues to keep her buzzing to different interviews, book signings and speaking engagements and conferences. But if I were to say,…this is so Laura….certainly all her card making years were preparing her for this moment in time! She still loves to make cards, as she is an encourager at heart. But writing is her passion and love. This new work is a fiction book about the tornadoes that ripped through southern Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. It is intriguing all the while inspiring collection of 5 short stories that anyone can relate too. She has been told by those who have read it….that it is of the same quality as The Bus Ride….tender, inspiring and full of encouragement and Hope! You can get Laura’s books at Amazon, bookstores and from her as well. Just let her know and she can get them out to you. They are still only $20 a great author discount. I have had several young kids ask me “Are you famous?” I reply “me, naw, the only difference between you and me is a page! We all have a story; just some of us write it down.” It has been an awesome journey! She has started yet another series called Foster Friends! She has already begun! Oh and she ran her first 5K this year! Trusting and praying…..

O is for Others. It seems to be the year for extended family sickness, cancers and surgeries. It only reminds me to value today all the more. Our every breath is a gift from God….use that gift for His glory and your heart will be full of joy no matter the suffering around you. We lost my sweet aunt Bobbie last year and that was hard too. I think of her often. Trusting and lots of praying……

R is for Read. Of course we encourage you r to take a stroll through our blogs, some are quite funny! And also a new friend and blogger, my speaking partner Jessica www.AwakenedAnew.com And of course I wish everyone to read my books! However, even as an author, I must still encourage you to read God’s love letter to you. My prayer for you this year is that you come to a place of craving…where you crave the Word of God! Trusting and praying…..

D is for Drop In. WE LOVE COMPANY! We made all the visits this year. We loved the visits to family as well as our visit to the Wellman’s and the Brown’s and we are going to see the Jessee’s soon. So come on over and sit a spell with us! If I am going to “spend” time…I’d rather spend it with you! So come on by…the rockers are on the porch! And ice tea is in the fridge! Hope to see you this year!

If you have followed our lives for any length of time, you know I can never just “cut and paste” from year to year! Way too much happens. Every year I say I am going to start my Christmas cards and letter in January so I am not so rushed to get them out by the end of the year. Before I could act on that idea it was December again! Not to mention, so much happens on a daily basis, I would short change my readers!

(Though I was tempted as fast as this year went by to just put 2014 on my letter and cards and send them out “early” for next year and skip this one, because time just goes so fast!)

With love---

The Wiggin Family--- Sherman, Laura, Samuel, Joshua, Zechariah

The Art of Listening

 

The art of listening begins with these two words:

         SHUT UP

The art of listening is nearly extinct.  In observation…..the thought of attentively listening because you care about the person speaking just doesn’t happen these days.  We have become such a self centered self absorb, instant chat society. 

Just send me an email or better yet, just text me……has become our mantra.   But it leaves behind the beauty that comes from the art of listening!  Just as with all the “arts” there is a beauty that can be gained by the user. 

One of the hardest things in a conversation is to be quiet.  As self centered creatures, we have a natural knack of turning the conversation back to ourselves.  Or “upping” the other person with one of our stories.  Or we constantly interrupt.

As I have prayed to become more like God, He has shown me much.  This is an area I greatly lacked in.  But the joy of sitting across the table with a friend or stranger and letting her bear her heart, without my  interruption, my advice, my scripture input, without looking at my watch or yawning.   Learned forward intently listening, digesting, praying and loving….that is the art of listening. 

For practice God has put me in countless situations/conversations where I have actually had some pretty heavy stuff going on in my own life…..the temptation to unburden was strong.   I have had to encourage someone else while my own heart was breaking.   But the beauty is….the art of listening is coming forth.   I gain overflowing joy by putting the other person first by engaging in this art of  listening to them.

The art of giving of ourselves 100 percent in a conversation without getting

anything in return is a masterpiece worth keeping!

So…

Shut Up & Listen Up!

 

The Non-Verbal Mr. Verble

I met a man who didn’t speak.  His name was Mr. Verble.  Though he uttered not a word I heard him say many things.

His deaf ears told me of the whistling and explosions of mortar shells.  The loud blast of the guns from world war II silencing the screams of the wounded and dying.  His blank stare reflected The purple heart he had earned.  His eyes no longer focused, blinded by the memories of this thing called war. 

His cane well told me of his active life.  A life filled with family and friends.  A life filled with adventure. 

His hat told me of the loving father he had been to his three sons and the lovely granddaughter he had raised.  His nice clothing told me of his career as the mayor’s recorder. 

His wedding band told spoke of his faithfulness and love for his beautiful wife. 

His serene peaceful countenance told me of things most important….this had been a man of God.  His face spoke of peace and love to all.  He had been a man that was a faithful servant of God.  He had ministered at his local church for many decades. 

So though this man was non-verbal.  He said much.  His name Verble.  The grandfather of a good friend of my oldest son. 

I learned alot from silent Mr. Verble. 

I ask you…..

If you were not able to see &  hear, if you were old and broken down.  What would your countenance say? 

Would it speak of peace and blessing or hatred and cursing?

The choice is yours!

A cheerful heart is good medicine,

but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

Proverbs 17:22

Prayer Matters

I am in my forties.  I have been married 29 years.  I have played sports as a kid and on some adult leagues.  I have been making crafts for numerous years.  I have designed hundreds of cards.  Inspiration runs through my veins.  I love home decorating.  I have created many word quilts and fashioned many unique themes. 

I have raised three handsome boys.  I have homeschooled for 20 years.  I have served on many church committees, served many a meal, and done much mission work.  I have taught Sunday School for years, i have passed on my heart of Encouragement to as many as possible.  I have written books, spoke at retreats and even developed my our touring conference…… Needless to say i have had alot of compliments over the years.

BUT……

In all my life, the compliments here and there over all these accomplishments pale in comparison to this one compliment:

    “Mom, will you pray for me?”

Two of my sons are already gone from home, with one teenager still at home.  It has not been an easy thing to raise kids.  Trying to show them how to follow Christ when you are still trying to figure that out yourself. 

Not to mention, i am a busy person.  My mind and body are engaged most of the time.  One day when my son was in great need……he called and asked:  “Mom will you pray for me?”

You could hear the desperation in his voice.  He was in great need of help.  But along the side of desperation was faith.  Faith in me that God would listen to me. 

Now that is a humbling compliment.  That my son wanted me to pray for him because he believed i bend the heart of God! WHOA!  I was touched. It was no passing flippant prayer request.  It was gut earnest cry for me to go before The Almighty on my son’s behalf.

Now that caused all kinds of emotion to surge through me.  Why did he ask me?  But there was no denying, he thought if i prayed it would make a difference.  Humbly i went before The Lord….

No compliment could ever beat this one.  That someone thought my life represented one with great faith in God and in a prayer lifestyle that showed.  I was undone.

but not as undone as the answered prayer the next day and days to follow.   I was reminded once again, just how Awesome and Powerful my God is and yet so very tender and loving to His children. 

May your prayers become as often as your breathing……

AND your faith as steadfast as your heartbeat!

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.  James 5:16

 

Stung by the Enemy

 

Have you ever been stung by the enemy?  Most of us have.  I have many times over.  But this morning my “sting” was a blatantly clear reminder as a child of God, i do have an enemy and he seeks to not only destroy my day but to destroy me.

Here is what happened…… many of  you know one of the big areas of personal struggle is weight……partnered with exercise.  It is totally a love/hate relationship….i love to eat & hate to exercise!  If the truth be known…..i could easily work for Frito Lay….i am a total couch potato!  Hence the weight problem.

I have been really trying hard to lose weight, and those of you who know where i come from KNOW it is only through hard work & commitment that the pounds come off.  There is NO MAGIC trick, pill or solution. It is only by good old fashioned determination and hard work.  As of yet…. it is just as hard as it has always been.

So…. on this morning, the enemy was working overtime on me.  I had a fabulous spirit filled time with God very early.  Then i dressed for the gym and headed out the door.  Only to find it was raining.  So i text my jogging partner and she was not going to be there.  So do you see how the enemy was already working against me! 

So to save gas, i decided i would just jog at the house.  So i waited until it was just barely daybreak so no country varmints would attack me living way out in the boon docks.  Three strikes against me….rain, cancelled partner and having to wait until daylight (which often times, i end up getting consumed in a project waiting for sunrise…..then missing the exercise all together.)  So the enemy has it going on….and is trying his best to derail my exercise efforts, which then causes my healthy eating to falter.

Here i go jogging between raindrops, telling my hungry stomach too bad, arguing with my legs that this is good for them……when it happened.  Out of nowhere (okay out of the woods) something stung me on the earlobe.  Piercing pain followed.  It was still dark (6:30 am in Oct.) so i could not see the stealthy little thing….but oh boy, i could feel it! It hurt like crazy!  How in the world did this thing find my earlobe…..out of all the places and spaces it could consume!

Needless to say i turned around and ran as fast as i could home, searing pain on my ear.  Sure enough when i looked into the mirror, evidence of the dirty deed was beginning to swell.  Still 6 hours later…..it still hurts!

Now i am telling ya….. that little whatever was demon possessed!  Out of all the countryside, acres upon acres of beautiful hillside…and this little thing decides he wants all the road air space!  Really!

satan was trying to defeat me….I am very venerable in this area…..and he knew it.  He did all he could to get me not to go out the door….he did some pretty creative moves to get me back in the door right away, thwarting my success. 

Isn’t that how the enemy works.  he doesn’t distract us with things we don’t like but things we do.  he tries to sabotage our determination and drive a wedge between us and God. 

And if that don’t work….he will just outright stings you to accomplish his plan.  he is very clever and deceitful.  So watch out for him!  satan is a liar and will stop at nothing to stop you!!

So while you are “running the race” as stated by the Apostle Paul, do not look to the left or the right.  Do not sop for anything.  he has set yp traps for you mines of disaster and defeat.   he has sideline distracts that are a match to your personality. 

Don’t get stung by the busy bee….. run hard and think of BUSY…..Being Under Satan’s Yoke. 

Now…..i have to go take a nap due to the Benadryl i took!

You have not handed me over to the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place. 

Psalms 31:8

 

 

 

Run to Win!

 

Running in Saturday’s 5K race was not about winning but about crossing the finish line.  For years I have dreamed of accomplishing this feat with my feet!  But winning had a deeper meaning….

I had two goals, one to finish and the other was to  not walk on any part of the course.  It wasn’t about time, or winning awards for me.  It was about finishing strong.

The Lord and I have been on this journey towards this place in my life for several years.  At times it has been grueling.  I have been defeated in my attempts.  I have been hindered by my health over and over again.  Discouragement has left me limping along. 

But on this day all of that changed.  The enemy sought to dissuade me….. my son came in from out of town, a sure distraction for I wanted to be at home.   It was pouring rain!  My running partner and friend fell into the duck pond at the park ten minutes before the race began. 

Looking around, I felt out of my league at all the trim fit people in their matching running clothes and expensive running shoes.   I was reminded of my two goals when the sound horn blew starting the race into action.

All the people quickly sped away, leaving me in a puddle of despair threatening to drown me.  But I prayed in the face of my fears.  My friend though soaked from the pond, along with my regular exercise partner, and I began running at a slow but steady clip. 

This was a spiritual journey I was on.  Though I had kept my goals to myself, the Lord knew them.  Oh it got so hard to keep pressing on.  But God through my friend kept pressing me on.  When I got out of breath, she praised God on my behalf.  When I felt like I could go no more….God carried me.

Somehow in the midst of the course, it just happened!  God made it happen.  I floated on the clouds Jesus sent my way.  I would not leave my regular running partner behind…..It was a joy to go back and run along side of her, taking my friend along with me. 

Call me crazy….but it wasn’t about the time, but the win….the win in God’s race.  The race He has for us is all about others and not self.  God honored my heart and efforts to stay with my partner and not leave her behind. 

I won both of my goals…..to finish and I ran the whole way without stopping.  Now that is a high that only God gives!  Grabbing the ladies in each hand we stepped across the finish line together!

Completely undone by my Jesus I walked on with my friend, praising God out loud as I cried.  He had empowered every step.  My joy could not be contained! 

So it is, with the spiritual race….God will empower you to run without stopping until you cross the finish line!

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off

everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles,

and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith,

who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down

at the right hand of the throne of God.

Hebrews 12:1-2

 

 

Write your Obituary ---Now!

If you are reading this, you are writing your obituary right now!  I know, your thinking…..how morbid!  But not really.  Because once you are gone, you no longer have the chance to write anything on the palette of your life. 

Right now, this very moment, the story of who you are is being quickly scribbled in the notebooks of all those that surround you.  How would they describe you,  What would be said about you?  How you lived your life?  What you thought was important?  What would your family and friends say you valued the most?

If only one sentence was allowed to describe you….what would it be?  This question stood out loud and clear to me as i was reading in the book of 1 Kings.  As i went down, King after King it says this one blurb.  “He did evil in the eyes of the Lord”  out of 10 to sometimes 40 years of their reign it was summed up in one sentence!  If all the things were boiled down that a king had done…..he was still known as….A King that did evil in the eyes of the Lord.

That gets my attention.  If all of your life were penned into say three paragraphs…..and one sentence was the summary…would it be ______ did evil in the eyes of the Lord.  OR _______ did what was right in the eyes of the Lord (as a very few Kings did)

You have today to write your own life history……

will it be yourstory or HIStory?

Even a child is known by his actions,

by whether his conduct is pure and right.

Proverbs 20:11

 

Ditto Calves

 

We often disregard the fact that our sin can have long lasting consequences.  Even after we have repented and turned away from a sin, it can come back to haunt us.  That is why it is so important to really focus on following God with all our heart. 

In the book of 1 Kings we see a ghost of Aaron’s sin come back to haunt him.  Though Aaron is long deceased, his sin carried on into many generations.

1 Kings 12:28-31 tells us that King Jeroboam built 2 golden calves.  He then told the Israelites to worship these calves that “brought them out of Egypt!” And then he appointed priest from every clan ignoring that only Levites were to hold that position. 

This shocked me.  Then it amazed me further to know that the Israelites did it!  Hook, line and sinker. Had they wondered so far from God that they did not know this was majorly wrong.  It is amazing how stupid we can be with it right there in front of you!

What you focus your time, energy and money will reveal your God.  I just think that if the Israelites had kept there hearts steadfast on God, they would have instantly known the calves to be idolatry.  And even when the king used the phrase, “brought you out of Egypt”that should have sounded off a big alarm.  But no, they had wondered so far away from the One True God, they didn’t even know what He looked like.

This is sad.  I can imagine that Aaron would be distraught had he been alive to know that his sin caused once again for Israel to stray into wicked idolatry.

This is a clear lesson to remember that our actions do matter.  What we do affects those around us now and possible for years to come.  Was Aaron forgiven, YES!  But the consequences of his sin was far reaching.

Remember, your actions, show what you worship.  Perhaps, your most worshiped idol is yourself and having your way.  May God melt your golden calves so that He is clearly known!

"You shall have no other gods before me.
"You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.
  You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me,
but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments. 

Exodus 20:3-6

 

Doing RIGHT when it’s WRONG!

If anyone had reason to do wrong it would be David. We find in the story of King Saul and David a deep dedication to God. Read the story. For no reason, King Saul tries to kill David several times until David has to flee to spare his own life. We see that King Saul continues his demented pursuit of David.

Twice David is given the opportunity to easily kill King Saul. What would you do? I mean the king had tried to spear David to the wall, (while David was playing the harp for him!) Then he relentlessly pursues David to where David had to leave the King’s home, his wife and family, his best friend and for years, live as an outcast, a fugitive on the run. All of this takes place after David was actually anointed king!

In 1 Samuel 24 and 26 we see very clearly that God did hand King Saul over to David to make a decision. What would you do? You can see in these passages that David struggles with his flesh. He is tried of being on the run, he had not done anything wrong to the King to deserve this horrific treatment.

And now…..he has the chance to end all his fugitive running. Twice he has the perfect opportunity to kill King Saul. David had to think…..perhaps this was the way God had intended for him to become king!

But in the moment of indecision, fighting his flesh to take “rightful” revenge into his own hands…..he stops and remembers….He said to his men, "The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD's anointed, or lift my hand against him; for he is the anointed of the LORD." 1 Samuel 24:6

I find in my own life the hardest things to get through in my walk of Faith is when someone wrongs me. Especially for no apparent reason. It is hard to let it go and bless them back. BUT scripture talks about doing just that! But it is hard.

May we be reminded in the story of King Saul and David that God calls us to honor and obey Him in all situations.

Do what’s RIGHT even when you have been so WRONGed!

"But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,

bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak,

do not stop him from taking your tunic.

Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back.

Do to others as you would have them do to you.”

Luke 6:27-31