Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Thursday, October 31st

Another Beautiful Morning!

Yesterday, I continued to be swollen, sore and have the sores in my mouth. Everytime I eat or drink it is painful.  I didn't bring my mouthwash so Paul went to the store to pick some up.  I'm hoping it will get better soon.

Today, we go over to Grant's school for his Halloween party.
and tonight is trick or treating. :-)

Tomorrow, we will start back home at around 9am.  Our plan is to drive straight through. 
It is sad to say goodbye but we will see them again around Christmas. :-)

So thankful for all I can do...

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Today's Bible Stud

Seeking the Lord

Read | Colossians 3:1-2

Most people have the idea that Christianity is defined by praying, giving, sharing their faith, and being good. But genuine faith is also a daily yearning for more knowledge of and intimacy with the Lord. A believer’s spirit can be wholly satisfied with the presence of Jesus Christ living within, and yet still remain thirsty for deeper communion with Him. One of Christianity’s basic principles is that the more we know of the Lord, the more we want to learn of Him. If we’re to seek God rather than worldly riches, then our desire for Him must be stronger than any other longing we have.

Yesterday, we learned that we gain life’s “good things”—what God wills for us— by seeking Him. A mind set on finding material success will miss the spiritually fulfilling path. However, pursuing the Lord doesn’t imply abandoning plans and dreams; it simply means we prayerfully subject our hopes to His will. As we strive to know God, our desires change to reflect His. Our Father in turn takes responsibility for His children and puts our goals within reach. He gives us all the good things our God-shaped heart wants.

How does a Christian go about seeking the God who will supply his or her needs? By studying His Word and asking for His revelation. Every believer who genuinely wants to be trained in the Father’s ways can expect His instruction. When we receive new knowledge of Him, our desire for God will be kindled like dry twigs touched by a flame. And the more we seek to learn about Him, the more we will want to know.

Another great day!

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Wednesday, October 30th

Another beautiful morning. 
Today we have another chance for rain but I'm not sure when.  Yesterday, we were supposed to get rain but we didn't.  It was pretty nice and warm, with highs in the upper 70's. :-)

Last night I slept pretty good but woke up at 5:30am.  I'm swollen again this morning and I have sores in my mouth. :-).  

I am looking forward to go over to see Joanna's new place today :-) I am so glad she has a place she can enjoy.

Jesse is off today and took off the rest of this week. Joanna gets off at noon today and is off the rest of the week :-). Should be fun...

So thankful for all I can do...

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Today's Bible Study

Receiving the Good Things in Life

Read | Psalm 34:8-10

Two conflicting opinions about material wealth exist among believers. One says that to be truly spiritual, a Christian must keep few worldly goods. Proponents of the opposite idea think that prosperity is a sign of God’s favor and, therefore, a desired possession can be claimed by faith. Bewildered, many followers of Jesus wonder, Which of the two is the correct approach? But neither answer gives the full picture.

A hindrance to answering the question is our common view of what constitutes “good things”; usually these are defined as items and experiences that make us feel happy. From God’s perspective, however, the good things in life are those that fit into His individualized purpose and plan for us. His will could include prosperity, robust health, talents, and opportunities. But more than likely, the Lord’s plan involves some periods of trouble and need, and He considers those times valuable too.

When our vision of what is truly good clears, we are ready to understand how to receive God’s blessings. The key to receiv- ing life’s good things is to seek the Lord Himself rather than just the treasures He has to give. We often approach God with an empty basket rather than an open heart; we tell Him what we need and wait for the bin to be filled. But an open heart says, “God, I just want more of You.”

According to Psalm 34:8, God is good, and James 1:17 says that He is the source of “every good and perfect gift.” Giving blessings from His storehouse is in God’s nature, but He wants His children to seek Him above all else.

Another great day!

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Tuesday, October 29th

Another Beautiful morning.
Rain is expected today and tomorrow but It should be nice on Thursday for trick or treating. :-)

I've had a lot of swelling in my hands, arms, legs and knees.  My hands are locking up again. :-( My neurologist appointment is on Monday.  I will see what he thinks is going on, if it continues.???  :-(

I went to bed early last night because I was so tired and hurting still.  I slept so much better and feel a lot better.  I slept in until 6am this morning, only woking up once at 5:00 and then I went back to sleep. :-)

I FOUND THIS WHEN I WAS READING THE ADULT DERMATOMYSITIS FACEBOOK PAGE.  Someone Like Me: Tips to Maintain Relationships

October 28th, 2013 by Colleen Sullivan, Columnist

I am an administrator and member of several support groups relating to chronic illness and pain. I read hundreds of people’s stories every month.

Generally, it seems the biggest problem people have is coping with their conditions long term and helping their friends and family cope too. Most people believe their family and friends don’t understand or don’t believe that they are actually sick.

Some have no idea what their loved ones think because they are too afraid or stressed to talk about it!

So how do we fix this problem? It’s easier said than done, but hopefully I can help steer you in the right direction.

I’ve learned most of these tips the hard way: I’ve lived through them.

In the early stages of your diagnosis, your friends and family were probably supportive of your treatment. They went to every doctor’s appointment, paced hospital floors, and comforted you as the side effects of treatment began to appear. This is a good thing. It’s what you expect from people you love.

But after months or maybe even years of devoting their time and energy as a spouse, caregiver, or friend to you, they may start to feel some resentment at how much your disease has affected their life.

Rest assured these feelings are normal. How you cope with these feelings is important for maintaining and strengthening your relationships.

Problem 1: Feelings of Resentment

Why does my spouse/friend resent me? I am the one that is sick!

The simple answer is that they are human. It is a totally normal reaction to feel resentful when disease has invaded your relationship. In most cases, the anger is not meant for you. It’s targeted at the disease itself. You have given the disease an identity — a face and a name that they can point a finger at. And that scares them.

Problem 2: Sacrifices Become Forced

Before you were sick, things were different. For one, you most likely worked at a job. And maybe sometimes you even worked extra hours to save up for that vacation you really wanted to go on.

But now you are unable to work and if you are saving up for anything its co-pays or medicine. You have no choice anymore and neither does your spouse. Now they must work extra hours to help pay for your treatment and cover the slack because you are not working.

When your spouse’s sacrifices for you are forced and not chosen, the stress of not having control over their own life can build up.

Problem 3: They Have More Roles Than They Can Handle

When you are ill, your spouse/friend is forced to take on roles in the relationship and family that perhaps you held previously. You may now find they are in charge of all housework, in addition to working a full-time job.

When all of these tasks have been placed on their shoulders, it’s easy for them to stretch themselves too thin — and eventually break.

Problem 4: The Stress of Being a Caregiver

Caring for you every day can be stressful. They may doubt their abilities, have trouble organizing their time, and feel like their life isn’t theirs anymore. Caregiving is a selfless role that very few can do without feeling some stress and frustration.

How to Cope with These Problems

Remember that resentment you are feeling from your spouse/friend is most likely related to the mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion they are experiencing.

No one wants to feel this way about someone they love, but when they are overworked and overwhelmed, resentment can be a natural response.

Try taking these steps before your spouse/friend begins to feel frustrated or when they start feeling that your disease is too much to handle:

1.) Keep your eyes on the prize! Disease may have become a part of who you are, but it certainly doesn’t define you!

Ask your partner to focus on the qualities they love so much about you. For example, your contagious laugh, your beautiful smile, your compassion for others, etc. Those qualities are still there and you are still you!

Look through old photo albums or home movies together and share memories of what it used to be like. Make plans for the future. Those plans will become special moments that can help your spouse and friends remember you when you weren’t disease-stricken. It will also revive your spirits.

2.) Communicate your feelings. Whether you are the sick one or the friend. Expressing your feelings, both positive and negative, is an important emotional outlet. Doing this regularly will help relieve stress and frustration.

You may feel uncomfortable discussing stress with your spouse or significant other, but there are so many other people you can turn to. Support groups, both traditional and online, are great ways to express your feelings in a setting where others truly understand your situation and can relate to you.

Members of the clergy, counselors, and trusted friends are also excellent people to vent your frustrations to. Keeping a journal may also help. Anything to get those feeling out of you.

3.) Get help before you need it. Since your spouse is probably assuming more responsibilities in your relationship, such as cooking, cleaning, childcare, accounting, and other tasks, it is important to have help lined up before these duties become overwhelming to them.

Ask friends and family how they can help make a difference in your partner’s stress level. Perhaps a few friends can get together to prepare meals, or a neighbor can mow your lawn when they do their own. It’s when these little tasks build up that stress levels can begin to spike.

4.) Take breaks. Relief from care giving is vital for your partner/friend’s emotional and physical health. Taking breaks to do things they enjoy is essential.

Make sure they don’t feel guilty about taking these breaks. Some people think that since you cannot take a break from your disease, then they shouldn’t be able to either. They have to maintain their physical and mental strength to care for you, and taking breaks is one of the best ways to replenish their drained emotions and energy.

Being chronically ill myself, I’ve had to form new and improved relationships with my friends and family. I am not the same old Colleen anymore and I have tried to make my loved ones understand.

I think if everyone is just open and honest with their partner or family, things will be better for everyone. Unless you have a chronic condition, it’s hard to understand exactly what it feels like to be chronically ill.

I think back to before I was sick and wonder, “Would I have understood?”

Colleen Sullivan lives in Florida. As a teen, Colleen was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, mixed connective tissue disease and other auto immune disorders.

Colleen has a Facebook support group for people with chronic health conditions called Someone Like Me. It’s a safe and fun place to make friends, ask questions, and share stories with people who understand.

Colleen’s father has another Facebook group called Patients United for DEA Reform.

The information in this column is not intended to be considered as professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Only your doctor can do that!  It is for informational purposes only and represent the author’s personal experiences and opinions alone. It does not inherently or expressly reflect the views, opinions and/or positions of National Pain Report or Microcast Media.
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Today's Bible Study

Wisdom for Good Health

Read | 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

God cares deeply for the physical bodies that He’s given His children. Let’s review some simple ways to look after yourself physically.

First, pay close attention to what you eat. Your body will use whatever food you give it—whether good or bad—as fuel. The decision about what kind of fuel to consume is yours alone. When you fill your body with the wrong things, you are limiting its efficiency, energy, and overall potential.

Second, exercise is vital to a healthy body. You may say, “Well, I just can’t do that.” Yes, you can; it is a matter of discipline. You may not enjoy exercise, but your body needs it. If all you can do is walk, then walk!

Third, wisdom about health requires examining your attitude. How’s your outlook regarding yourself, your life, and other people? A positive attitude affects the body by freeing it of stress.

Finally, spending time in prayer and Bible study affects physical well-being. You were created to be in relationship with God; it only makes sense, then, that actively engaging in this relationship and realigning your mind and spirit toward Him can have beneficial effects on the body He created for you.
Many people attempt to separate spiritual life from the physical. This is not what God intended. If you truly believe your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19-20), then you must realize that failing to maintain your health is both a physical and a spiritual problem. What is the Lord saying to you about the way you care for your body?

Another great day!

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Monday, October,  28th

Another beautiful morning...Highs will again be in the 60's.

I didn't sleep good last night. I tossed and turned all night in extreme pain. :-(

Yesterday, we went to the Fair of the Heart at the Oklahoma City fair grounds. We walked through all the buildings.  :-)  Joanna clocked us, we walked over 7 miles.  As we were finishing up I had a tough time keeping up.  I had to stop several times to rest.  I also had a hard time getting in the van...I couldn't lift my legs. :-( 
Then last night we went out to eat at our favorite Mexican restaurant and I decided to eat a lot of salsa.  That's a no no...
Today I'm paying for it.  :-(  I am hurting and my eyes are puffy with discharge. :-( Today, I better take it easy. :-)

So very thankful for what I can do...
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Today's Bible Study

Suffering Alone

Read | Psalm 88:8, 18

Have you ever been in the midst of a personal crisis, only to feel that your friends have disappeared? Even if you did forgive them for abandoning you in a time of need, they still may not have come back to offer support. In situations like this, it’s important to remember the One who promises to be there for you all the time.

When Paul was suffering from a “thorn in the flesh,” the Lord told him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:7-9). In other words, He was telling the apostle, “I’ll take care of you.”

During our most trying moments—when we have nothing left to sustain ourselves—we can find strength in God. He doesn’t set aside a reserve of grace and assistance to help us six months from now. We get exactly what we need when we need it. Our Father has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you” (Heb. 13:5 nlt) and He has no intention of breaking that promise.

We may never know why the Lord allowed friends to forsake us when we needed them, but here’s one possibility: He might have been trying to teach us how to rely on Him. At times the only way we will learn to lean on God is by finding that all other supports are gone.

At some point, we all experience the heartache of abandonment. But one thing is certain—Jesus Christ will be standing by our side to strengthen and deliver
us in our time of need. One day we’ll have the privilege of looking back over our lives and seeing how He proved His faithfulness over and over again.

Another great day!

Marking Off the Miles - Joni and Friends

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional  

Marking Off the Miles

"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying,
'This is the way; walk in it.'"           Isaiah 30:21
 
When I was young, every October our family piled into the old Buick and drove to
the town of Hancock, Maryland, where we would pick apples at my Uncle Don's farm. We
kids loved to climb the trees, shake the limbs, and watch the fruit plummet to the ground.
 
But the best part of the trip for me was getting there. My dad let me have the map. The lines would turn from thick red to thin black when the road became narrow, and I would mark off on the map each little village as we passed through it.
 
I've always loved journeys. I gain satisfaction seeing how I've gone from one place to the next and that I'm all the better for it. And when it comes to maps, you'll always find my nose stuck in one. A map allows me to mark off my progress and to see how much farther I have to go.
 
The Bible is just like a map. Pick a verse, any verse, and you're on your way. God orders your steps. He goes before you, and He even tells you that you ought to be on the narrow road rather than the broad one. Do you think you might lose your way? Don't worry. When Jesus' disciples asked Him how they could get where He was going, He replied, "I am the way..." You can't get lost when you trust in the Lord.
 
Are you a little unsure of your directions? Read today's verse again. If you are intimate with the Lord, if your communication with Him is close, He will tell you which way to go. But if your ears are dull to His voice, and your heart unyielding to His nudging, you won't have a clue as to which direction to take.
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So get into that map of yours. Learn to look at your life ahead as the best journey ever. And remember you know exactly where you're headed -- heaven. Just keep your eye on the Way, and you'll make it safely.
 
Thank You, Father, for the adventure of the journey and the guidance of Your map. Keep me alert to Your directions.

Blessings,
 
Joni and Friends
www.joniandfriends.org

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Sunday, October 25th

Another beautiful morning...

We had a good time at the parade yesterday. :-) The boys got a lot of candy. They wouldn't have to go trick or treating on Thursday :-)

When we got back from the parade, Paul turned to the Nature channel...
There was a show about unusual animal friends.
a goat and a horse
a dog and a fawn
a lion and a dog
a coyote and a tiger
two different kinds of primates

It was so amazing to see how well they got along and some of the things they did for each other. 

They were talking about how we, as humans, could learn something from these animals by being more accepting of each other.  Taking care of each others needs, no matter who it is or how they look, act or what kind of preconceived notion we may have of them.  Isn't that the truth :-)

It reminded me of a man we saw outside of Perkins in Mason City, IA on our way down to Oklahoma. He had grubby clothes on, drinking a cup of coffee and smoking a cigarette.  After we were seated he came back into the restaurant, sitting in a booth by himself.
As we passed by him I said hi and he responded with hello mam.  I was thinking about him wondering who he was?  Did he have any family to help care for him? What brought him to this point in his life?  I do that a lot...wonder about people.  I took a class many years ago on mental health and in one of my classes they talked about not judging others unless you have walked in their shoes.  Everyone has a past and a story to tell. 
How many time have we done this?  Judged others...I know I am guilty.  After the thoughts come of judgment...I remind myself of what I've learned so many years back. :-).

I have been so blessed with great family and friends...

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Today's Bible Study

   By Charles F. Stanley

When I was a teenager Proverbs 3:5-6 became my spiritual compass. Whenever I faced a difficult decision, I always turned to it for assurance. God etched its simple but profound truth in my mind and heart. It continues to be a signpost along life’s road, ever pointing me to the bottom line for all decisions: trust and obey God. It is an eternal combination that always makes one a winner.

Why? Because God is trustworthy. He is dependable. He is sovereignly working everything together for his glory and our good.

His wisdom is given to those who look to him, lean on him, rely on him. The more we depend on our Father for instruction, strength, hope, and guidance, the more abundantly he confers on us his divine wisdom.

We cannot receive wisdom from God apart from a relationship with him. God is not interested in teaching his ways to those who have no desire to please him or follow him. He does yearn, however, to teach men and women who are bold enough to believe his promises and carry out his commands.

Trusting in the Lord means that we place our present and future circumstances in his hands, confident in his ability to orchestrate people and events to achieve his will. This whole-hearted trust brings a secure peace of mind and contentment. Putting our full emotional and volitional weight on the faithfulness of God activates his promises.

There is one catch, however. We must first admit our inadequacy: “Lean not on your own understanding.” That was Solomon’s attitude when he confessed, “But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties” (I Kings 3:7).

This is where many Christians falter. We can do many things quite well without an apparent need for God’s wisdom. We can repair items, invent machines, program computers, hike trails, and perform multitudes of other activities with very little sense of God’s participation.

Yet we have been created by God to work in a world he fashioned with his own hands. Our lives, our very breath, is in his hands; our minds and bodies are his gifts. His wisdom is displayed in everything, even when we fail to recognize him.

God has given you talents and skills. However, they are maximized for eternity when you trust him to direct and use them for his plans. The question is, Will you lean on your own understanding or depend on God?

The wise choice is obvious when we understand that God knows the end from the beginning and sustains all things in between. Trusting him is the wisest decision we can make. Depending on our frail discernment limits us to a narrow, finite control. Relying on God’s wisdom adds a supernatural dimension that cannot be matched by anything on earth.

Excerpted from "A Touch of His Wisdom," by Charles F. Stanley, 1992.

Hardship that Hangs On - Joni and Friends

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional   

Hardship that Hangs On

"Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."  
2 Corinthians 12:8-9
 
I can identify with this verse. In the early years of my paralysis when I was squirming to get back on my feet, I looked at my wheelchair and "pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me." To make a long story short, I got the same response as the apostle Paul. Like his, my condition remained chronic.
 
Why chronic? Why do some hardships never go away? The hurting and hammering process I spoke about yesterday won't end until we become completely holy (and there's no chance of that happening this side of eternity). This is why I can more easily accept my paralysis as a chronic condition. When I broke my neck, it wasn't a jig-saw puzzle I had to solve fast, nor was it a quick jolt to get me back on track. My diving accident was the beginning of a long, arduous process of becoming like Christ. Sure, there are times I wish it were easier, but I realize I'm far from perfect. I have a long way to go to be made like Christ, polished and complete in his image.
 
The grace of God mentioned in our verse today is enough to sustain us through hardships that hang around. God's grace - the desire and the power to do His will - is sufficient. "Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. Make level paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but healed" (Hebrews 12:12). Health and wholeness, maturity and completeness will be mine one day. The hammer and chisel will be laid down, once and for all!
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James 1:2-4 is our advice for the day: "When all kinds of trials crowd into your lives, my brothers, don't resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends! Realize that they come to test your faith and to produce in you the quality of endurance. But let the process go on until that endurance is fully developed" (Phillips).         
 
Lord Jesus, help me to accept those conditions in my life which are chronic, whether in my marriage, family or health. Give me grace for the long haul, knowing the ending will be happy beyond my wildest dreams.
 

Blessings,
 
Joni and Friends
www.joniandfriends.org

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Saturday, October 26th

Another beautiful morning!
Highs in Edmond are going to be in the 70's today. :-).  Jesse mentioned possible snow this coming week. Shucks :-( 

We made it to Oklahoma at around 9pm last night.  I was swollen and alittle sore...It was a long day. 

It is good to see the kids and grandkids.  The boys have sure grown since we've seen them last.
:-). Unfortunately they grow way to fast.

I slept really good last night but woke up at 5am this morning. :-( I usually get up early at home but I was hoping I'd sleep in longer while here.

This morning I am still alittle swollen, sore and have matter in my eyes. 

Today, we are going out to eat at a Greek restaurant and down to the homecoming parade.  It should be lots of fun. :-). Jesse and Joanna are going to the OU game and we are going to come back home.  Tomorrow we are going to the Fair of the Heart.  It has a lot of crafts, food and miscellaneous items for sale. I'm looking forward to that also. :-)

So thankful for all I can do...

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Today's Bible Study

Standing on God’s Word

Read | Ezekiel 13:1-6

The United States Marine Corps is always on the lookout for what they call “a few good men.” The eyes of the Lord are likewise scanning the earth in order to find godly men and women who will step forward and use their influence to exalt righteousness in the land. That is what we see in Ezekiel 22. God says, “I searched for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before Me for the land, so that I would not destroy it” (v. 30).

A “gap” in this sense is some place where error or falsehood has crept in, allowing Satanic confusion and inviting the judgment of God. Sometimes these gaps are so serious that they imperil entire nations and carry them to the brink of destruction. Israel was facing such a time following the Exodus, but the Word of God records this remarkable statement: “Therefore He said that He would destroy them, had not Moses His chosen one stood in the breach before Him, to turn away His wrath from destroying them” (Ps. 106:23).

In all likelihood, not too many of us will ever be called upon to save a nation. But we can nonetheless build up the walls of protection around our families and churches by drawing wisdom from the whole counsel of God. We can resist the Devil daily and refuse the sensuality and perversions of this present age. God has called His children into His service and will equip them in righteousness. In Moses’ day, one man made all the difference. Why not be the one who makes a difference today?

Another great day!

A Message from Michelangelo - Joni and Friends

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional   

A Message from Michelangelo

"He chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight."   Ephesians 1:4
 
An artist in Florence, Italy, once asked the great Renaissance sculptor Michelangelo what he saw when he approached a huge block of marble. "I see a beautiful form trapped inside," he replied, "and it is simply my responsibility to take my mallet and chisel and chip away until the figure is set free."
 
Colossians 1:27 speaks of the hidden figure inside each believer, longing to be set free: "Christ in you, the hope of glory." This beautiful form is inside Christians like a possibility, a potential. The seed has been planted, the idea is there, and God uses affliction like a hammer and chisel, chipping and cutting to reveal His image in you. God chooses as His model His Son, Jesus Christ: "Those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son" (Romans 8:29).
 
What does this sculpture look like? God uses suffering to purge sin, strengthen our commitment to Him, force us to depend on grace, bind us together with other believers, produce discernment, foster sensitivity, discipline our minds, spend our time wisely, stretch our hope, make us long for truth, teach us thankfulness in times of sorrow, increase faith, and strengthen character. It's a beautiful image!
_______________________________
 
When Christ is revealed in you, it is a unique sculpture. It is what patience, self-control, kindness, and a healthy hatred of sin looks like on you (and no one else). Your suffering is divinely hand-tailored to suit exactly what patience looks like on you. The "who" of who you are is transformed, like a form unfolding. "And we... are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit" (2 Cor. 3:18).
 
Help me not to focus on the hammer and chisel of suffering, Lord, but on You, the Sculptor. Help me to yield to the chisel today. Change me. Reveal Yourself in me. And be glorified!

Blessings,
 
Joni and Friends
www.joniandfriends.org

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Friday, October 25th

Another beautiful morning!  Today's high is back in the 50's.  We are warning up again for a few days. :-)

I'm so excited for our trip...
Today, we are driving down to Oklahoma to see the kids and grandkids.  The grandkids grow so fast. 

I'm going to see how our 12 hour drive goes, being exposed to the uv light.  We decided to drive straight through. :-). I keep myself pretty closed up at home with curtains drawn so we will also see how it goes being out in the uv light more.  I am hoping the medication is doing it's job...
I would like to be outside more  :-)

When we return home, daylight savings time changes.  So that means less daylight. :-)
This will give me the opportunity to be out more.  Only problem with that is, colder weather is also on it's way and I hate cold weather.         :-( 

I've been so blessed... :-)
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Today's Bible Study

Requirements of a Godly Influence

Read | 1 Corinthians 1:25-31

Have you ever wondered what God’s human history textbook might look like? Who would appear on its pages as the principal movers and shakers of world events? First Corinthians 1:27-28 provides a clue when it tells us that the Lord has chosen the weak and the foolish things of the world to shame the strong and wise. This principle is woven throughout the fabric of biblical history.

A prostitute named Rahab makes a right choice and becomes the ancestor of the Messiah. A widow named Ruth chooses the God of Israel and becomes the great-grandmother of King David. An infertile wife named Hannah pours out her soul to God and becomes the mother of Samuel the prophet. A man called Abram responds to God, leaves his relatives behind, and becomes the father of all who believe. A woman named Mary pours expensive perfume on Jesus’ head and gains for herself an eternal monument in the stream of history.

Who are the truly influential people on this earth? Don’t be deceived by outward appearances. The ones with impact are those who leave all to follow Jesus—the men and women who have proven themselves to be “blameless and innocent children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom [they] appear as lights in the world” (Phil. 2:15).

You may not think that your light is very bright by this world’s standards, but when the Lord calls you a luminary, you can agree with Him and keep on shining.

Another great day!

Highs -n- Loss Living with the Disease

Thursday, October 24th

Another beautiful morning...

Yesterday, Kaylee and I went to Faribault to visit grandmas. 
When we went in to see grandma Gloria the staff mentioned she didn't eat breakfast or lunch. 

We brought her a hamburger, chicken nuggets and fries from McDonald's.  She ate every last bite. 

Today, Kaylee and I are meeting my sister, Brenda, in Rochester to get our nails done. 

So thankful for all I can do!

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Today's Bible Study

Wise Reactions to Criticism

Read | Philippians 2:1-11

How should we face the upsetting comments of other people? What is the right response to criticism?

First, when criticism arises, maintain a quiet spirit. Do not become defensive or loud, and restrain any outburst, though that may feel right at the moment. Some people will use the excuse, “I just have a short fuse. That’s how God made me.” This is a poor argument; we can’t blame the Lord when we fail to control our own bad temper. Such responses are unhelpful, unhealthy, and unacceptable.

Second, we should not attempt to defend ourselves immediately. Pride, not genuine honesty and reflection, usually motivates this response. Whenever possible, it’s wise to allow time for the initial shock and irritation to pass before offering any defenses or theories.

Third—and this is a tough one—we must ask the Holy Spirit to show us if the problem is our fault. Are the accusations true? Is it possible that a loving friend was led by God to reveal something unpleasant about us? We do not like to think that we are ever wrong; however, we know that as sinful men and women, we cannot be right all of the time. For this reason, there is always a chance that a conflict in our lives may actually be our fault. When people care enough to confront us in this way, we should be gracious about receiving and considering their perspective.

The Lord often speaks to us through other people. If He is trying to communicate something to you through a brother or sister in Christ, challenge yourself to be open to His message—even if it hurts.

Another great day!

Encouraging Word - Daily Devotion

Today's Verse

"An open rebuke is better than hidden love! . . . As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend."
Proverbs 27:5, 17

Encouragement for Today

Do you have a friend who can point out your shortcomings, and you can take it? Several verses in Proverbs mention the wisdom of being open to rebuke. Yet how many of us welcome such correction? How many of us are willing to rebuke a friend when it's needed? It takes wisdom, tact, and humility to give the kind of feedback that "sharpens" another. Moreover, it takes humility to receive a rebuke without getting defensive. Yet, no matter how difficult it is to give or receive correction, it's the mark of both wisdom and love to do so.
—Diane Eble, author of Abundant Gifts: A Daybook of Grace-Filled Devotion

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Wednesday, October 23rd

Another beautiful morning....Brrrrr the air is cold and when I looked outside this morning, there is snow on the ground. :-(

Yesterday, I took it easy and stayed around the house.  I was having a tough time swallowing last night when eating supper.  It took a long time for the food to go down.  For awhile I thought I may have to cough it up but it finally made its way down. :-)

I was messing around with the phone and decided to take a couple of picture of myself. :-)
After a few shots...I was surprised at the difference in my appearance.  I see myself in the mirror everyday but taking a picture sheds a whole new light on you and how you look to others. 
I am usually the one behind the camera not in front :-)
After taking the pictures, I realized I look better when I smile.  I used to be a happy-go-lucky person but haven't been smiling much lately...
Well, starting yesterday I am going to smile much more despite how I may look or feel... :-)

So thankful for all I can do...

Faithful Journey
By Emily Wojcik
from the Lupus Newsletter

For many people, religious faith is just another part of life, like school or work—something that defines us, but can, perhaps, be taken for granted. But recent research has shown that cultivating a sense of personal spirituality can be beneficial to health and well-being, particularly for those with chronic conditions like lupus.

Whether you attend a prayer group or meditate, cultivating a spiritual or faith-based practice can improve your physical and emotional well-being, studies suggest.

Rediscovering Faith

By the time Tanisha Agee-Bell graduated from high school in 1992, she hadn’t been active in her family’s church for several years. The granddaughter of a Baptist minister, the stay-at-home mother of five says it wasn’t until she began experiencing health issues in college—problems that baffled her doctors for years, until her lupus diagnosis in 2004—that she thought about returning to her spiritual community.

“I didn’t know how to handle my symptoms, because no one seemed to know what was wrong,” says Agee-Bell, 38, who was incorrectly diagnosed with cervical cancer, among other conditions. “And people began to ask me if I had prayed about it. I thought, ‘What does God care about me and my little problems?’”

Agee-Bell’s mother died from complications of lupus in 2003, and after her own lupus diagnosis the following year, Agee-Bell began looking for a prayer group to help her cope. “I surrounded myself with people who would pray with me, create a circle of healing, and they showed me I didn’t have to go through this alone,” she says.

Finding Support

Agee-Bell’s return to faith is not unusual. Research shows that spiritual practice can help improve quality of life for people who have chronic illnesses and that it can aid in pain management. A 2008 study from Johns Hopkins Community Physicians found that people with chronic illness who engaged in daily spiritual activities—such as prayer, yoga, and transcendental meditation—reported more energy and less depression than those who did not.

Such results aren’t surprising, says Paul DeBell, M.D., a psychiatrist and author of Decoding the Spiritual Messages of Everyday Life (Sterling Publishing, 2009). “Most people feel cut off from life when they’re diagnosed with a chronic illness, and they can become more private and withdrawn,” he says. “An illness that threatens our well-being can be seen as a tragedy, or it can be a wakeup call that we are more than our material bodies.”

It is her faith in God and the community she discovered through her church that has helped Donna Fubler manage her lupus for 23 years. A Seventh-day Adventist living in Bermuda, Fubler says the fellowship she experiences through her church is as important as her relationship with God.

“If you can find a group of people who need your help, it takes your mind off your own problems,” she says. Fubler’s congregation offers community service opportunities that, along with weekly worship and prayer, keep her focus off her own limitations.

Cultivating Mindfulness

Catherine Hayes, 46, a yoga instructor in Ontario, Canada, says meditation and yoga give her a spiritual well-being she couldn’t find through other avenues. Hayes says she was drawn to yoga from a very early age after discovering a book about it in the library. “I spent a lot of time meditating, sitting in the ‘lotus’ position,” she says.

With her lupus diagnosis at age 31 came the realization that she was no longer capable of spending eight hours a day teaching yoga classes. After nearly injuring herself, Hayes shifted her focus to the spiritual side of her practice—meditation and yoga nidra, also known as “yoga sleep.”

Such practice can help with physical symptoms as well as mental stress, says Hayes. “Even if you’re in pain, you can supersede that through meditation,” she says. “When you have lupus, your mind and body can feel disconnected. Meditation can help bring the two back together.”

While there are many ways to practice meditation, Hayes suggests starting by focusing on breathing—how long it takes to inhale and exhale. Then, “go through your whole body, asking: How are my feet? How are my legs?” And don’t fret about distraction. Most people get distracted an average of 35 times in 15 minutes, she says.

Continuing the Conversation

Like meditation, Agee-Bell says that for her, prayer is a way to relax and focus on her own body’s needs. “I don’t want to burden people with my problems, but I can freely talk to God about what’s going on with me, physically and emotionally, about hating my meds or being angry with my doctor,” she says.

Faith, says Agee-Bell, gives her strength. It “makes it so I’m not afraid of lupus or the other diseases I have,” she says. “If I didn’t have my faith, I would live in fear of everything—of dying, of not being here to watch my kids grow up. My faith provides comfort. It gives me freedom.”

----------------------------
Today's Bible Study

Unwise Reactions to Criticism

Read | 1 Peter 2:23-24

No one likes personal criticism. Sometimes it seems that we go out of our way to help and encourage others, only to be met with a harsh word or accusation. Too often, when that happens, our protective shields immediately go up. But what do we do with the remark that has already been said? What is our normal, human response to criticism?

First, we might respond by repressing the matter. That is, we acknowledge there is a problem but don’t want to do anything about it. In such cases, we may answer, “Thank you for sharing your feelings. I understand what you are saying.” And yet we may not understand. We might feel grievously hurt by the comment but do not want to deal with the hardship of exploring or discussing it further.

Second, we may respond by suppressing the conflict. We may act as if nothing ever happened, completely ignoring the situation to the extent that we actually become unaware that anything is wrong. Far from being a cure, this only delays and exaggerates our eventual reaction to the problem.

Third, we might respond by blaming someone else. We can be quick to point the finger at others, while denying any personal responsibility in the matter.

Selfish tendencies serve only to alienate us further from those who have challenged us in the first place. True, a word of criticism can hurt, but there may be something within the remark that is worth examining. Are you strong enough to face criticism with humility and godly confidence?

Another gray day!

Longsuffering - Joni and Friends

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional   

Longsuffering

"I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I put my hope. My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning. . ."      
Psalm 130:5,6
 
The call came into the counseling department of the Dutch Christian television network. "I am a quadriplegic," the caller said. "I had said I would kill myself in ten years if I could not find help. It is now the tenth year. This is my only hope."
 
The young man had called in response to one of my programs on TV in the Netherlands. He had heard my message of hope and trusted that somehow people could respond to his needs. Contacts were made, help organized, and now we wait for God to heal the young man's heart.
 
We're all saddened and shocked by this story. It's hard to imagine no one being able to help and give him relief these past ten years. But what is just as shocking to me is the man's patience. He gave himself (and God) ten years! Most people in his circumstance rarely take such a long-term view of their circumstances. They want relief, and they want it now.
 
The discouraged people that grab God's attention are those who intentionally set out to wait.   Like the Psalmist, they know it may take a while. They not only wait, they watch. They watch because they know that God will answer. Rather than standing on the corner of life waiting for God, they go about their days unencumbered. They are productive, joyful people, knowing that God will come in due time.
__________________________________

Wait. Wait patiently, and eagerly. In the meantime, get busy with what you know to be your responsibilities.
 
Lord, I don't give You enough time to do that which You desire to do. Grant me an eternally minded heart to wait upon You today.

Blessings,
 
Joni and Friends
www.joniandfriends.org

This is Why He Came - Joni and Friends

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional   

This is Why He Came

"Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: 'Everyone is looking for you!' Jesus replied, 'Let us go somewhere else -- to the nearby villages -- so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.'"   
Mark 1:36-38
 
Why were Simon and his companions so anxious to find Jesus? Because everyone was asking for Him. The day before in Capernaum Jesus had healed all the sick and the demon possessed. Word had spread through the night and the next morning everyone was searching for the Great Physician. Only after searching high and low did Simon find Jesus away from the crowds, almost hiding and praying alone.
 
Back in Capernaum, sick people and their families were frantic for His healing touch. But Jesus left them to go on. It's not that He didn't care about the cancer-ridden and arthritic (those who came too late for healing the night before). It's just that their illnesses weren't his focus -- the gospel was. Jesus' miracles were merely a backdrop to His urgent message. He said so himself: "This is why I have come... so I can preach." And He preached it time and again: Sin will kill you, hell is real, God is merciful, His kingdom will change you, I am your passport. Whenever people missed this point -- whenever the immediate benefit of His miracles distracted them from eternal things -- the Savior backed away. (Estes)
_________________________________
 
What are you seeking from God? The healing of a hurt? The meeting of a need? These things are good, but don't miss Jesus' deeper message. The core of His plan is to rescue you from sin. Our pain, poverty, or broken hearts are not His ultimate focus. God cares most, not about making us comfortable, but about teaching us to hate our sins, to grow up spiritually, and love Him.     
 
I desire healing on the inside of my heart today. Lord, help me not to be so absorbed with outside things. Touch my soul, Great Physician.

Blessings,
 
Joni and Friends
www.joniandfriends.org

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Tuesday, October 22nd

Another beautiful morning...
I have a lot of tingling in my legs and numbness in my arms and hands...my hand feel like they are changing.  Hard to explain...

Last night we got our first freeze.  I was able to get most of the plants in I wanted to save over the winter. :-). The front porch is full and we have an overflow into our livingroom.  :-)
We had a lot of potted plants this year.  Instead of putting them in the ground, like we had in the past, we placed the majority of them in pots...easier for me...

Yesterday, we had some small snowflakes coming down but it didn't accumulate to anything.  I really don't like this weather...I'm looking forward to our trip to Oklahoma. :-). 

I didn't make it to the speaker last night at church...I had other issues to take care of...
I think things are falling into place for him and I pray for his complete healing. Amen

So thankful for all I can do... :-)

----------------------------
Today's Bible Study

Participating in Great Works Through Prayer

Read | John 16:23-24

Divine miracles occur daily: when closed minds open, the spiritually blind suddenly see the gospel’s truth, and rebels surrender and become God’s children. Jesus promised that we who believe can have a part in great works like these by making requests in His name.

Our heavenly Father waits for us to draw near with our big petitions. He looks to see that we are asking based on the merits and reconciling work of Christ, that we have confessed all known sin, and that we firmly believe He’ll do what He has said. In other words, we are not to doubt; our Father wants us to have faith that He will both keep His promises and respond for our good. He delights in giving His children gifts (Matt. 7:11).

God answers our requests when they are in alignment with His plan. And we know He won’t act in a manner inconsistent with His character. So by searching the Scriptures, we can discover whether our desires line up with God’s nature and promises. We might also learn about someone with a similar dilemma, such as: Elisha, who was exhausted and in despair; Ruth and Naomi, who were poor widows in need of the Lord’s help; or David, whose life was in danger. Their interactions with God—and the ways He responded—will provide guidance on how we can speak with our Father about our difficulties. And we can be certain the Holy Spirit will help us (Rom. 8:26).

God alone knows the perfect actions to take and the right time to do so. But He invites us to ask in faith—and to keep on asking (Matt. 7:7 ISV).

Another great day!

Encouraging Word - Daily Devotion

Today's Verse

"He made heaven and earth,
  the sea, and everything in them.
  He keeps every promise forever.
He gives justice to the oppressed
  and food to the hungry.
The LORD frees the prisoners.
  The LORD opens the eyes of the blind.
The LORD lifts up those who are weighed down.
  The LORD loves the godly."

Psalm 146:6–8

Encouragement for Today

What oppresses you, imprisons you, weighs you down? Your own problems, other people's problems, an emotional or physical issue, injustice? These verses remind us that God not only created all that exists, he also faithfully keeps his promise and takes care of everything he created. He does not turn a blind eye to our problems; he actively works to free us from oppression. In these verses, God takes all the action. The only characteristic of the people in this passage, besides their neediness, is that they are godly. They trust God, and God acts on their behalf.

—Diane Eble, author of Abundant Gifts: A Daybook of Grace-Filled Devotions

Lack No Good Thing -Today's Word

Lack No Good Thing

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the LORD will lack no good thing.”
(Psalm 34:10, NLT)

TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria

It’s easy to think, “If I had more money, I could accomplish my dreams. If I had this or that, or knew the right people, then I could do something great.” But as long as you feel like you’re lacking or that you were shortchanged, then you’ll make excuses to be less than your best.

Today, get a new perspective. God has given you exactly what you need for the season that you’re in. You have the talent, the friends, the connections, the resources, the experience you need for right now. It doesn’t mean that’s all you’re ever going to have. You may need more next month or next year. When that time comes, God will make sure that you have what you need. Because your trust is in the Lord, you don’t have to worry. You lack no good thing.

Remember, you are equipped, empowered and anointed for this moment. You are not lacking. You have what it takes. Rejoice because increase is coming. Promotion is coming. New opportunities are coming. You are ready for whatever may come because you put your faith and trust in Him.

A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, thank You for Your provision in my life. Today I declare that I trust You! You give me everything that I need as I rest and hope in You in Jesus’ name. Amen!
— Joel & Victoria Osteen

God Is So...Personal - Joni and Friends

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional   

God Is So...Personal

"When the sun was setting, the people brought to Jesus, all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them."    
Luke 4:40
 
In Luke 4, everybody from the surrounding countryside brought sick people to see Jesus. Now it could have panned out this way:
 
Jesus surveys the crowd and says, "Okay, all you blind people, you sit over
here. And everybody who has a contagious disease, you guys sit way over there.
Now, where are the deaf? All you deaf people gather on that hill. Paralyzed
people? Calling all paralyzed people! Okay, get yourselves together in a group
right in the front here. Now, everybody in position? Are you ready? Here
goes!" Then, with a wave of His hand over the crowd, Jesus shouts, "Be healed!"
 
Aren't you glad it didn't happen that way? No grand-scale miracles of epic
proportions were undertaken by Jesus. Instead, He laid His hands on each one
who came to Him. His gentle touch healed the deaf, and He had nothing but kind words for blind people who reached out to Him. He ministered to each one...individually. In so doing, He performed divine feats in a loving and highly personal way.
 
That's what I find so amazing about Christ. Although the fullness of the
Godhead dwelt in Him, He didn't make high drama of it. He glorified the Father
but not in a showy way. Unlike the unapproachable "smoke and fire" of the Old
Testament Mt. Sinai, Jesus makes himself approachable through the love and
tears of the New Testament Mt. Calvary.
__________________________________

That's the kind of miracle God wants to do in your life. Today He encounters
you with the same tenderness and humanity He showed two thousand years ago. You are not a face in a sea of nameless people whom He divides into groups like the deaf, the blind, or the paralyzed. He wants to give you His highly personal touch.
 
Lord, I'm grateful I'm not a What's-his-name in Your eyes. I'm not a face in the crowd. You thought of me, formed me, and designed every unique, wonderful bone in my body long before the foundation of the earth. Touch my life today in the personal way yet powerful way You have touched people through the ages.
 
Blessings,
 
Joni and Friends
www.joniandfriends.org

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Monday, October 21st

Another beautiful morning...so many things to be thankful for :-)

Tonight, there is a speaking at church that suffered 19 years with a rare nerve disease and was healed after falling out of her wheelchair.  She saw Jesus and He healed her  :-) I continue to pray for healing.. Thank you Lord!

As my friends and I continued our discussion about our journey...We talked about taking in kids to help them in the situation they were in...everyone wants to know they are loved and these kids were struggling...
God gave us the gift to love and respect them.  To help them gain the conference and find the help they needed to move forward in a positive way.  To help them regain hope...when hope was lost..

Sometimes we face life in darkness but with God as our light we are able to do anything we put our heart and minds to...

To judge others is to judge God...

------------------------------
Today's Bible Study

Making Big Requests of God

Read | John 14:9-14

Jesus often spoke about the role of prayer for the believer and the church. He guaranteed His presence when two or more gather in unity to pray. He also promised to act whenever believers speak to God in the authority of Christ’s name. Jesus taught that God is to be the focus of our petitions, and He showed by example that the basis for ministry is communion with the Father.

If we want God to release His power into a situation, it’s important that we do two things:

First, we must depend solely on Jesus’ merits and mediation. Our new life as children of God began when we acknowledged our helplessness and accepted Christ’s substitutionary death on our behalf (Rom. 5:6). He acted as our mediator and reconciled us to the Father (1 Tim. 2:5). If we want God to do mighty works in and through us, we must continue in that same spirit of dependence on Christ (Gal. 2:20).

Second, we must separate from all known sin. At the cross, when the Savior paid our penalty for transgression, sin’s controlling power over us was broken. However, its presence remains in this world and also lingers in us. Gossip, laziness, gluttony, and selfishness are commonplace occurrences. The remedy for every sin is to confess it to God, turn away from that attitude or behavior, and receive God’s forgiveness and cleansing (1 John 1:9). He uses cleansed vessels.

If we are going to make big requests of God, we must come to Him with clean hearts and hands—that is, solely on the merits of His Son Jesus.

Another great day!

I'm After God's Heart - Joni and Friends

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional   

I'm After God's Heart

"...David, who kept my commands and followed me with all his heart, doing only what was right in my eyes."         1 Kings 14:8
 
"You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy."   Psalm 30:11
 
David is a man not only after God's heart, but mine. He's bent on pleasing God, but he seems to bounce off the wall spiritually with every Psalm he writes. One day he is wailing, the next, dancing. One moment he throws himself down in sackcloth and ashes, disgusted with his behavior, the next, he's effervescing joy like 7-Up. In the space of just one Psalm, he cries, then rants and raves, gets depressed, teeters on the edge of doubt, then does a complete turnabout, confesses, repents, and ultimately rejoices in praise.
 
That's my kind of guy. I can identify with someone for whom obedience does not always come easy. I'm not glorying in my hardheadedness. Being slow to obey is not something to brag about. God knows it took a broken neck to back me into a corner in order to get me seriously thinking about His lordship in my life. But I'm learning. No longer is a broken neck required for me to be instant in obedience. Maybe a pressure sore, or a stint in bed from the flu. These are the less dramatic means God uses to press my heart up against His. And, oh, I want to seek His heart!
________________________________
 
Are you the kind of believer who immediately turns a headache into a hallelujah? Few, if any, Christians are made automatically holy through their heartaches. Most are like David for whom there was no mystical link between trials and triumphs. Take heart! When you struggle in a test or against temptation, when you move toward obedience, even in a small way, God sees it as seeking after His heart.      
 
O God, though I sometimes wander far, though I stumble and fall, please, please: I want to be a child after Your own heart.

Blessings,
 
Joni and Friends
www.joniandfriends.org

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Sunday, October 20th

Another beautiful morning...ready for another day! 
Continue to have Disease symptoms....wondering if this is normal??? Is it something I live with for the test of my life or is there relief in site???

So thankful for all I can do...
-----------------------------
Today's Bible Study

Maintaining Hope

Have you ever felt ignored by God? Have you wondered why others are blessed, while the Lord continues to allow suffering, disappointment, and hardship in your life?

Scripture records the stories of faithful believers who were able to maintain their hope in the midst of painful circumstances. The apostle Paul is a perfect example. He experienced persecution, beatings, unfair trials, imprisonment, and sickness, among other frustrations. Let’s explore what he discovered about rising above adversity.

Fulfillment in life does not hinge on our circumstances.
A. A change in scenery will never bring lasting joy. Some people believe that personal contentment is linked to one’s circumstances. Consequently, when they become frustrated with life, they might quit their job, sell their house, divorce their spouse, or buy a new car. A little while later, they begin to feel unsatisfied again.
Have you ever believed a certain circumstance would bring you contentment, and then been disappointed when it arrived and didn’t satisfy? Describe the situation and how you felt.
From this experience, what did you learn and how can you apply that to your current circumstances?
B. Paul discovered that the “secret” to contentment was not found in things, but in a Person (Phil. 4:11-12). As believers, we find joy in our relationship with the Lord, not in our circumstances.
What hardships did Paul experience, according to 2 Corinthians 11:24-27?
Having experienced all that, why did Paul say he was content? Read 2 Corinthians 12:10 and Romans 15:13.
God can show us how to be satisfied, regardless of our circumstances, if we will rely on Him. When we don’t find our joy in the Lord, we’ll spend the majority of our time trying to improve circumstances (or escape trial) rather than serving Christ.
God’s grace is sufficient during adversity.
A. Paul discovered that God’s power is most evident when we are weak. God did not remove Paul’s thorn. But what the Lord gave him was far better in the long run. God granted Paul the grace he needed to endure his hardship victoriously (2 Corinthians 12:9). Weakness forces us to depend on God’s power.
Have you ever experienced God’s power at a time when you had little strength of your own? If so, describe that situation.
B. God’s grace is more than sufficient for anything we will encounter. Paul left his home and family to plant churches in hostile environments, and as a result, he was persecuted, imprisoned, stoned, and left for dead. Yet, somehow he was content.
In what area of life do you need God’s strength?
Write a prayer, asking God to show you how to depend on His strength to overcome this difficulty or weakness.
The key to advancing through adversity is to view it as suffering for Christ’s sake.
A. Paul understood his purpose in life—to bring glory to God by preaching the gospel. Therefore, anything that happened to him in the process of obeying God was really for Christ’s sake. He wrote:
Therefore, I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong (2 Cor. 12:10).

Think about a recent hardship or disappointment in your life. How does the point above give you a new perspective on that trial?
B. Like Paul’s mission in life, yours is to glorify God through spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. This doesn’t mean that you’ll necessarily serve God full-time vocationally. But when you become consumed by His call, everything will take on new significance. You will begin to see every facet of your life—including pain—as a means through which God can work to bring others to Him.
God may choose to delay your deliverance so He can use your suffering for His sake—either now or in the future. What hardship are you currently experiencing?
How can others see Christ in you through that situation?
Closing: God’s grace is sufficient for whatever you’re facing. If you’ll draw near to Him, suffering will ultimately bear spiritual fruit in your life and in the lives of others. As part of the Father’s divine plan, you can experience hope and joy, regardless of your circumstances.
Prayer: Father, how grateful we are that You accept us where we are. You can use every experience of our lives. Teach us to find hope in You. Make us effective vessels through whom others will find You as their Savior. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

__________________________________This study was adapted from "How to Handle Adversity" by Charles F. Stanley. 1989. pp. 162,164-168

Another great day!

God's Narrow and Wide-Angle Lenses - Joni and Friends

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional   

God's Narrow and Wide-Angle Lenses

"Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men."
Lamentations 3:32-33
 
When my paralyzing accident happened, I know the Lord took no pleasure in it. I believe it pained His heart to see me hurt, just as any father has compassion on his children. Yet I also know it pleased the Lord to permit my accident. He was as delighted then as He is now to work it all out for my good and His glory. Sound confusing? I can understand why: In some scriptures, God is described as grieving over affliction; in others, it doesn't seem to bother Him.
 
Dr. John Piper explains it this way. God has the capacity to look at the world through two lenses, a narrow lens and a wide-angle lens. When the Lord looks at a painful event through the narrow lens, He sees the tragedy for what it is in itself, and He is deeply grieved, as Ezekiel 18:32 says, "For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord..." He hates the isolated incident of disease, crime, or violence.
 
But when God looks at a painful event through His wide-angle lens, He sees the tragedy in relation to everything leading up to it, as well as everything that flows from it. He has in mind Romans 8:28, "...in all things God works for the good" and Ephesians 1:11, "...according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will."   The connections form a mosaic stretching into eternity. This mosaic, in all its parts of good and evil, dark and light, brings Him delight.
________________________________
 
God often wills what He despises because He has two lenses. You can trust Him today that your painful trial is part of a pattern. One day you, too, will put on that wide-angle lens. When you do, what a beautiful mosaic you will see.
 
My shortsightedness, Lord, keeps me from seeing how pain can result in good. Help me to look through the lens of faith.

Blessings,
 
Joni and Friends
www.joniandfriends.org

My Oath to You - signed God

A little girl went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jelly jar from its hiding place in the closet.

She poured the change out on the floor and counted it carefully. Three times, even. The total had to be exactly perfect.. No chance here for mistakes.

Carefully placing the coins back in the jar and twisting on the cap, she slipped out the back door and
made her way 6 blocks to Rexall's Drug Store with the big red Indian Chief sign above the door.

She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her some attention, but he was too busy at this moment. Tess twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise. Nothing. She cleared her throat with the most disgusting sound she could muster No good. Finally she took
a quarter from her jar and banged it on the glass counter. That did
it!

'And what do you want?' the
pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice.. I'm talking to my brother from Chicago whom I haven't seen in ages,' he said without waiting for a reply to
his question.

'Well, I want to talk to you about my brother,' Tess answered back in the same annoyed tone.  'He's
really, really sick....and I want
to buy a miracle.'

'I beg your pardon?' said the
pharmacist.

'His name is Andrew and he has something bad growing inside his
head and my Daddy says only a miracle can savehim now.. So how much does a miracle cost?'

'We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I'm sorry but I can't help you,' the pharmacist said, softening
a little.

'Listen, I have the money to pay for it.. If it isn't enough, I will get
the rest. Just tell me how much it
costs.'

The pharmacist's brother was
a well dressed man. He stooped down and asked the little girl, 'What kind of a miracle does your brother need?'

' I don't know,' Tess replied with her eyes welling up I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But my Daddy can't pay for it, so I want to use my money.'

'How much do you have?' asked the man from Chicago
.'One dollar and eleven cents,' Tess answered barely audible.

'And it's all the money I have, but I can get some more if I need to.'

'Well, what a coincidence,' smiled the man. 'A dollar and eleven cents---the exact price of
a miracle for little brothers.'

He took her money in one
hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said 'Take me to where you live..I want
to see your brother and meet
your parents. Let's see if I have the miracle you need.'

That well-dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong, a surgeon,
specializing in neuro-surgery.
The operation was completed free of charge and it wasn't long until Andrew was home again and doing well.

Mom and Dad were happily talking about the chain of
events that had led them to this
place
'That surgery,' her Mom
whispered. 'was a real miracle. I wonder how much it would have
cost?'

Tess smiled. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost....one
dollar and eleven cents...plus the faith of a little child.

In our lives, we never know how many miracles we will need.

A miracle is not the suspension of natural law, but the operation of
a higher law. I know you'll keep the ball moving!

Here it goes. Throw it back to
someone who means something to you!

A ball is a circle, no beginning, no
end. It keeps us together
like our Circle of Friends. But the treasure inside for you to see is the treasure of friendship you've granted to me.

MY OATH TO
YOU...

When you are sad.....I will
dry your tears.

When you are scared......I will comfort your fears.

When you are worried......I will give you hope.

When you are confused......I
will help you cope.

And when you are lost...and
can't see the light, I shall be your
beacon...shining ever so bright.

This is my oath.....I
pledge till the end.

Why you may ask?....Because
you're my friend.

Signed:
GOD

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Saturday, October 19th

Another beautiful morning...ready for whatever is brought our way.  Sounds like we will have rain over the weekend...possible snowflakes mixed in :-(
I have a few big potted plants left out.  Will have to find a place for them today. :-)

Next Friday Paul, Kris and I are heading down to visit Jesse, Lee, Joanna, Nolan and Grant.  Looking forward to seeing everyone.  We are going to drive through so we can get there on Friday, the same day.  There are a lot of things planned for next weekend being it's homecoming and Fair of the Heart. :-). The boys will be in school during the week so Paul and I thought we could visit their schools.  Possibly eat lunch with Nolan.  I can't believe he's already in kindergarten.  Where has the time gone.  They grow up so fast... :-(

I've been also reflecting on my life and what direction I am going...
As I live each day I know God has not overlooked me or my situation. He knows exactly where I am and exactly where I am going.  God is taking me through a process of healing, growth and new life. :-) God is faithful and will do it if I trust in Him. :-) I will try not to get impatient with Him.  He knows the right time it will take.

So thankful for all I can do...

-----------------------
Today's Bible Study

Having Increased Faith

Read | Genesis 22:1-14

We’re determined to make spiritual progress. No longer content with little faith, we are removing our gaze from ourselves and putting it onto the Lord. We are reaching for greater faith.

We start by becoming students of the Bible who have a compelling desire to experience the Lord’s presence, develop greater intimacy with Him, and be conformed to Christlikeness. A second characteristic of deeper trust is a heavy reliance on the Holy Spirit, evidenced by the habit of looking to Him before making decisions. Third, we demonstrate the willingness to wait on God and trust what He says. The Lord commended the centurion for his strong convictions. Trusting in the person and character of Jesus, the soldier believed Christ’s words were all that was required (Matthew 8:5-10).

But there is an even higher level of faith, where unbelief is cast out and only trust in God remains. Abraham displayed such flawless confidence when the Lord commanded him to sacrifice Isaac. Little faith would never have cut any wood or saddled donkeys to make the trip. Great faith—though it may have balked about putting Isaac on the altar—would have traveled as instructed, believing in God to work things out. Complete faith will act as Abraham did: he believed what the Lord had promised him yet carried out the divine instructions, even though they appeared to contradict God’s pledge.

May complete faith be the prayer and aspiration of your heart.  The Holy Spirit is always ready to help you reach that next level of faith.

Another great day!

Encouraging Word - Daily Devotion

Today's Verse

"Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. 'For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.' And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. … Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous."

2 Corinthians 9:6–8, 11

Encouragement for Today

Do you picture God as someone who wants you to scrimp and sacrifice in order to give, or someone who is rich beyond all measure and wants to shower you with everything you could ever need, and more, so that you can always be generous to others? Of course, this passage depicts the latter view. However, it also indicates that God's generosity is triggered by our own. First we give, then God gives us more so we can be even more generous, and so on into an upward spiral of generosity.

—Diane Eble, author of Abundant Gifts: A Daybook of Grace-Filled Devotions

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Friday, October 18th

Another beautiful morning!
I spent my afternoon yesterday moving the toys out of the front porch, cleaning it up and bringing in the potted plants from the deck. :-). They were talking freeze this week.  Yesterday on my way in to town to eat with grandma Marion, I noticed many spots already had frost.  We are up on a hill so it didn't hit us yet. :-)

Today, I pick up Kaylee from daycare at 11:30 and we are coming back home to clean. :-) We need to find a new place for the grandkids, Kaylee, Grant and Nolan, toys.

I still continue to swell and I'm  hurting. I have bloodshot eyes and a discharge from my eyes this morning... :-(

I plan on taking it easy again today. :-)

I am so thankful for all I can do...

------------------------
Today's Bible Study

Levels of Faith in the Believer’s Life

Read | Mark 9:14-24

The theme of faith permeated Christ’s ministry. Jesus highly esteemed complete trust like Abraham’s, and He commended strong confidence in God, such as the centurion’s. He also urged those with weak convictions to believe. Many of us fall into this last category—over and over, we wrestle with doubt and worry.

Five times in the book of Matthew, Jesus pointed out examples of little faith. First, He mentioned people who felt that their resources were insufficient (6:30). Like them, we can become anxious when we think we have too little time, energy, or money.

Then there was the terrible storm—Jesus slept through it, but the disciples were afraid (8:23-26). Constant fear shows lack of trust.

Next, Peter allowed doubt to take over. At Jesus’ command, he started to walk on water but then sank when unbelief set in (14:31).

Another incident involved the disciples’ failure to reach a correct conclusion about Jesus’ teachings and actions (16:5-12).

In the fifth example, the disciples—who’d previously cast out demons—were unable to do so in the current situation (17:14-21). Because their faith was so small, they lacked the divine power to carry out a harder task.

In order to grow stronger spiritually, we must take our eyes off our circumstances and look to the Lord. By trusting in His character and believing in His promises, we can overcome anxiety and develop greater faith. On whom or what are your eyes fixed?

Another great day!

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Thursday, October 17th

It's another beautiful morning!
Yesterday, Kaylee and I made our way over to Faribault :-) We had lunch with Grandma Gloria and then went over to visit Grandma Faye. Kaylee enjoys visiting with both grandmas and the other residents. :-)

We didn't stay as long as usual.  I was swollen and sore.  The right leg had shooting pains going down it again. :-(

This morning I am up with the swelling and In pain still. :-(

Today, I am going out for breakfast with grandma Marion.Then back home to clean and make a few calls... :-)

When down visiting my friends...we were talking about different things that happened in our lives.We've been together through good times and supposed each other through our bad times.
It's so important to discuss life's stories and make lasting memories... :-)

I have been blessed with many great memories, a few difficult and tragic memories in my life.
All of these memories/stories are a part of who I am. :-)

When Paul and I got married and we moved to Kellogg over 18 years ago...Erik and Kris were in the 5th and 6th grades at that time.  We brought with us their pet Iguana and our two Siamese cats Pistol Pete and Princess.  Pistol Pete was named after one of the boy's favorite movies about a great basketball player, Pete Maravich - The Greatest. They would watch it over and over.  It was really good.  Another one of the boys favorite movies was Where the Red Fern Grows. 
There were so many classic movies with lessons to be learned :-)
Pete and Princess was a gift from Greg, Erik and Kris for my birthday.  I loved those cats. I had them for 17 and 18 years. They were apart of the family.  :-) Grandma Gloria would always comment on how princess would talk to me...she went on and on. :-) Princess was the first to die at home, Easter day. She wasn't well for a while...so hard...Paul buried her for me out by our outhouse/garden shed.  Pete died almost a year later. It was a month before our yearly fishing trip...Pete hadn't been doing very well..so I knew he didn't have long.  I was struggling with going on the trip...
A few weeks before our trip I sat with Pete and talked to him about going on the trip, telling him I couldn't leave him like this.  A week before we were going, Pete walked out the door, looked back and continued on.   I continued to look out the door for him but I knew he went off to die... :-(

Life has so many memories/stories.  We need to share our stories with each other. These are an important part of who we are. :-)

So very blessed...

Lord God thank you for providing us with all we need to carry on each day.  Continue to grant us your peace and strength to conquer whatever we may face.  In Your name, Lord Jesus.  Amen
-------------------------
Today's Bible Study

The Blessings of Inadequacy

Read | 2 Corinthians 2:15-17

Most of us assume that feelings of inadequacy are enemies to be subdued rather than friends to be employed. In some cases, though, these feelings can prepare us for great accomplishments. That is what the apostle Paul discovered when he set out to preach the gospel to all creation. In spite of his great learning and varied gifts, Paul acknowledged that he was not sufficient in himself to minister for the Lord. By taking that attitude, he was able to step out beyond his own personal limits and tap into supernatural power.

Many times, we fail to follow suit because we so easily surrender to our inadequacies. We may use our limitations as an excuse for not taking on difficult assignments—all too often we say, “I can’t do this” or “I don’t want that responsibility” when faced with God’s call to serve. But our excuses are unacceptable because the Holy Spirit will empower us for any task the Lord assigns.

Unless we claim God’s supernatural power, we run the risk of multiplied failure. First of all, we miss out on the joy, peace, and contentment derived from stepping out in faith to answer the Lord’s “impossible” call and watching His enablement. In addition, our hesitancy may deprive other people of the benefits of our service.

Perhaps you feel that you don’t have a lot to offer, but if you are a child of God, He has equipped you with all that you need for serving Him. Never underestimate the impact of one person who has learned how to depend upon the adequacy of Almighty God.

Another great day!

Encouraging Word - Daily Devotion

Today's Verse

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the LORD. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,' says the LORD. 'I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.'"

Jeremiah 29:11–14

Encouragement for Today

Do you believe deep down that God has good plans for you? Sometimes life throws some pretty hard curveballs, and it's tempting to believe that God is unaware of our plight. Certainly the exiled Israelites to whom God was speaking must have felt that way. Here God assures us that his plans are for our good. But these good plans are bound up in our relationship with him. Finding him, we connect with his good plan. If it feels as if God is nowhere to be seen, seek him wholeheartedly. When you find him, you'll find your future hope as well.

—Diane Eble, author of Abundant Gifts: A Daybook of Grace-Filled Devotion

Encouraging Words - Daily Devotion

Today's Verse

"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. … Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer."

2 Corinthians 1:3–4, 6

Encouragement for Today

God doesn't always reveal why he lets us suffer, but here he gives us clues as to how he redeems it. When we suffer, he comforts us (if we allow him to). Then, when we encounter someone who is going through something similar, we can offer our own empathy from having gone through a similar trial. That in itself is often a comfort to the other person. If we can share specific instances of God's comfort, that further encourages the other person. In this process, our sense of God's purpose for our pain further strengthens us.
—Diane Eble, author of Abundant Gifts: A Daybook of Grace-Filled Devotions

The Opal - Joni and Friends

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional  

The Opal

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."            Psalm 51:17
 
I've always loved opals, partly because that's my birth stone. But also because opals seem even more brilliant and full of fire than a diamond. Amazingly, this beauty comes from desert dust and silica from sand dunes. That's what opals are made of. They owe their beauty to a defect -- it's a stone with a broken heart. The opal is full of minute fissures that admit air, and then the air refracts the light. Because of this defect, the opal is all the more brilliant.
 
You and I who have broken hearts are sometimes only conscious of the cracks and the fissures. But out of all this God is making an opal heart. We must be broken in ourselves before we can give back the lovely hues of His light, including the fire, the brilliance. The Bible says that God can best use a heart that is broken and contrite. It's true in my life. When I'm self-sufficient and in control, my heart becomes a little hardened to others' needs. In fact, that self-sufficient attitude even hardens my heart toward God.
 
Ah, but then He breaks it...by a cutting yet true remark from a friend. Or rejection from someone whose opinion I respect. Or by a verse such as, "If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!" (1 Corinthians 10:12). Sometimes something beautiful will break my heart...a special hymn or the testimony of someone who has suffered. Only when my heart is fractured, full of minute fissures, can God's love enter in and refract His own light.
________________________________
 
Next time you see an opal, think of how you must be broken before you can give back the lovely hues of God's light. Let the opal remind you to thank God for a broken heart.
 
Lord of my heart, thank You that You use brokenness to create beauty and that my defects are tools to serve Your purpose.

Blessings,
 
Joni and Friends
www.joniandfriends.org

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Wednesday, October 16th

Another beautiful morning!  Yesterday we started our woodburner...it's cooling down...they are talking frost by the end of the week.  I guess it's time to bring in all the plants I plan on keeping over winter. :-)

I'm still having a lot of swelling and pain on my right side... :-(  I've been taking it easy.  I keep trying to figure out what's causing it.  If I knew what causes the swelling, I could change it.                         Maybe it's the change of weather??? 

I finally took a few minutes to look through this weeks bulletin and was reading a story about Ema McKinley.  She is coming to speak at St. Joachim on Monday, October 21st.  Ema suffered from a rare, nerve disorder which twisted her body a full 90 degrees, shriveled her left foot and locked her left hand shut. She spent 17 years bent over in excruciating pain.  On Christmas Eve 2011 she fell out of her wheelchair, at her home, and spent the night on the floor calling for help while pain engulfed her body.  Ema says, "Jesus showed up. He literally appeared to me and healed my spine, hand and foot.". When finished, Jesus offered her his hand and helped her to her feet.  She could walk. God is good!
I'm planning on going to this speaker on Monday to hear her tell her story...

I believe God is good and wants me to be full of life and be healed.  I am thankful that I have many family and friends praying for me.  I was fortunate in having three healing prayer over me while I was with my friends in Iowa and St. Louis.  We are trusting God to heal me so I can glorify Him :-)
Thank You Lord!

I am so very blessed!

-------------------------
I am praying today for healing for those suffering with disease or sickness...

Lord God you tell us to bring everything to you.  We ask for complete healing for those suffering from disease or sickness. Those that are in pain.  Even if our faith is as small as a mustard seed, you hear our cries to be restored.  Thank you for your gift of faith.  Grant us peace that passes all understanding.  In Jesus name. Amen!

--------------------------
Today's Bible Study

Relying on Our All-Sufficient God

Read | 2 Corinthians 3:1-6

Many people would scoff at the idea of inadequacy as a way the Lord blesses believers—the feeling can be so disheartening that it seems illogical to think in terms of benefit. Yet Christians can use shortcomings as stepping stones to blessing:

1. Our inadequacy forces us to do our work in the power of the Holy Spirit. Anything that puts us on our knees and drives us to God has to be good.

2. Awareness of our limitations can relieve us of the burden of trying to do God’s will in our own strength. Without the Holy Spirit, we will be crushed by weights we cannot carry.

3. Another blessing is that such awareness “frees” the Lord to use us to the maximum of our potential. When we are lowly enough to feel our need, then God will raise us to great heights.

4. Acknowledging our shortcomings allows God to get all the glory for His work. Spiritually minded people can tell when something is of God—and when it’s not. If you are in the Spirit, the glory will rightfully go to the Lord.

5. Inadequacy can enable us to live in contentment and quietness of spirit. Either we will give God our burdens and cease striving, or we will proceed in our own strength and become overwhelmed.

Like the apostle Paul, we should not claim competence in ourselves but rather acknowledge that our adequacy is from God (2 Cor. 3:5). What area in your life are you trying to manage in your own power? Relinquish control and anticipate God’s blessings, knowing that He desires good for His children.

Another great day!

Highs -n- Lows Living with the Disease

Tuesday, October 15th

Another beautiful morning!  We are getting rain this morning. :-)

I woke up hurting again yesterday and it hurt all day :-(  But I'm feeling better this morning...so far not too bad. :-)

Yesterday morning I left for Faribault around 9:30am arrived at the clinic15 minutes before Gloria's appointment. :-) I waited for the wheelchair van to drop Gloria off at the clinic.  At 11am, Gloria's appointment time, I called Milestone and was told they just left.  At 11:17am I called the van service and they told me she's 2 minutes out. :-( She finally arrived and because we were late we had to wait until she could fit us in :-(  I made the pick up time for 10:40am...thinking this would give us enough time. Not sure why it turned out the way it did...I'm not sure if this was a test for me or someone else??? The Dr saw Gloria at 12:10pm and we were out at around 1:00pm...there were a few bumps along the way but it worked itself out... :-)
Gloria was in a very good mood and we had a pleasant visit...so thankful. They took some blood, checked Glorias legs and Dr Hurtt and I discussed the idea of grandma Gloria going into a nursing home...memory care facility.  Glorias legs are again red and swollen so a decision was made to move her to St. Lucas.Dr Hurtt will be in to see Gloria more often and other medical staff will care for her legs. :-(
I've checked with the Owatonna nursing homes and they are full with a waiting list.  So I am very thankful to find St. Lucas with an open bed.  I checked out the room Gloria would be in and it is perfect for her. :-) So thankful everything is falling into place for us. :-)

I wasn't able to stop to see mom very long so Kaylee and I are going to visit grandmas in Faribault on Wednesday. :-). Today I am picking Kaylee up after her nap and she will stay overnight.

I have been so very blessed...

Today my prayers goes out for the families dealing with substance abuse...
Lord God we pray for complete healing for CJ and MV help them turn it all over to you.  Let them know that you can fill the empty void that they have in his heart.  Give them what it takes to be rid of it and not crave it anymore.  Give them your strength and peace.  Lord we thank you for your Love even when we do make mistakes.  In Jesus name we pray. All of God's people said... Amen and Amen
---------------------------
Today's Bible Study

Does God Love Me?

Read | Psalm 145:7-9

Life can hit us with unexpected and undesirable circumstances. When that happens, shock and pain can make us wonder, Does God really care about me?

First of all, Scripture tells us, “God is love” (1 John 4:8), which means His very nature is characterized by compassion and concern. Love originated with the Lord, and He is our greatest example of how to express it. This truth, combined with His holiness, means His love is perfect—He’ll never make a mistake in the way He loves us.

Second, we know God loves us because He calls us His children. “To those who believe in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,” writes John in his gospel (1:12 niv). Sadly, some people don’t have a mother or father who shows them love. But God is the perfect parent. It would go against His character to treat His children with anything less than unconditional love.

Finally, the Lord gave the supreme demonstration of His love at the cross. We were all dead in our sins, but Christ went to the greatest lengths possible to give us life: He came to earth as an expression of His Father’s infinite love, and in giving His life on our behalf, did what no one else was able to do.

After considering these facts about God’s love, how could we not expect Him to take care of even the smallest details of our life? Look for ways He is expressing His love to you, and remember Jesus’ own words on the subject: “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends (15:13)

Another great day!