tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89125003331440678562024-03-13T06:37:19.187-05:00Tuning My HeartMusings of a woman on a journey to know God moreDebra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-85239903216895445052013-02-27T10:04:00.001-06:002013-02-27T10:04:30.314-06:00Join me at my new location<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Tuning My Heart has a new home...<a href="http://www.tuning-my-heart.com/">click here to be redirected.</a></div>
Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-54568847108821424162013-02-20T10:31:00.002-06:002013-02-20T10:31:57.091-06:00The Apostle Paul on UFO's<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Haha- you will just have to <a href="http://www.tuning-my-heart.com/2/post/2013/02/philippians-16-8-ufos.html">click here to read the rest of the story</a></div>
Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-10556728879478457022013-02-19T10:38:00.000-06:002013-02-19T10:38:28.626-06:00Philippians 1:3-5....JOY<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">S</span>cripture:<br />I thank my God in all my remembrance of you,<br />always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all,<br />in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now<br />(<span style="font-size: xx-small;">all Scripture quotations are from the NASB unless otherwise noted.</span>)<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;">O</span>bservations:<br /><br />-Paul is thankful for the saints in Philippi, and filled with joy whenever he prays for them.<br /><br />-he is joyful because of their "participation in the gospel" from the very first day he met with them and shared the Good News of Jesus life, death, and resurrection.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">A</span>pplication:<br />Joy. Paul uses the word joy six times in Philippians, more times than in any other book. It seems to be a theme. Paul uses the word gospel nine times in Philippians. Do you think there could be a connection? I most certainly do.<br />Remember that Paul is in prison as he writes this letter. It is not prison like we think of today. He was basically under house arrest in quarters he rented in Rome. He could not leave the house to preach the gospel, but was allowed to have visitors with whom he could freely share. He was also chained to a member of the Roman guard and I can't help thinking "talk about a captive audience." How many guards must have heard Paul share the gospel! <br />Paul was in prison awaiting the decision of whether he would be set free or sentenced to death. And yet he had found joy. <a href="http://www.tuning-my-heart.com/2/post/2013/02/philippians-13-5.html#" style="line-height: 1.5;">To read more click here</a></div>
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Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-68866728245660333682013-02-18T15:40:00.002-06:002013-02-18T15:40:47.749-06:00Study in Philippians<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I am so excited to share that I have begun a new study on the book of Philippians on the new website. I hope you will come and join me over there...<br />
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<a href="http://www.tuning-my-heart.com/2/category/all/1.html" target="_blank">Philippians: By Way of Introduction</a> They may just be two small verses that introduce us to the author and recipients of this Epistle, but there is a lot packed into them if we take the time to consider.<br />
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Blessings!<br />
Deb</div>
Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-5159176552094812552013-02-12T11:18:00.003-06:002013-02-12T11:18:37.648-06:00Announcing new Bible study<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It;s the big reveal on my new blog today...<br />
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It is kind of a misty, drizzly day here in Texas this morning. We need all the moisture we can get so I am not complaining. It just does not make for a bright and cheery photo from the backyard. Except for the oleander in the foreground there is not a hint of green, of life. I know some of us are feeling much like that. We struggle with pain, both physical and emotional. We have hearts that are bruised, wounded one way or another. Maybe life looks bleak because we are out of work, or alone. Personally I am in the grip of grief over the loss of one who was very special to me. Tears are so near the surface and my mind is filled with memories of a precious friend and mentor. But I press on... <a href="http://www.tuning-my-heart.com/blog.html" target="_blank">Click here to read more...</a><br />
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Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-18296610503433290022013-02-11T15:52:00.001-06:002013-02-11T15:52:14.718-06:00Things are Changing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello dear blog friends. Well, it has been quite awhile since I last wrote- technology is not always easy and it has taken me this long to finally gain access to my blog again to be able to write. In the meantime I have been setting up a new website and blog. It is still in the building process, but I think in the long run it will be the way to go- besides I have exceeded my free photo storage limit on blogger, who knew? Now it will costs me a monthly fee to keep posting photos, and that will only go up as I continue to share with you. So the switch is on, and I hope you will join me over at <a href="http://www.tuning-my-heart.com/" target="_blank">Tuning My Heart</a> (same name, just a slightly different URL) I soon hope to have subscription options available there as well, but I cannot just press a button, I actually have to figure out codes and things, which is good for keeping the old brain active, right? <br />
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Today I am sharing my <a href="http://www.tuning-my-heart.com/blog.html" target="_blank">Laundry Room Re-Do</a> that houses that wonderful laundry soap I made, which I still love by the way.<br />
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Blessings to all, and I hope to hear from you at the new place real soon,<br />
Deb</div>
Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-77970556833964239152012-12-06T10:47:00.000-06:002012-12-06T10:47:06.672-06:00DIY Laundry Detergent<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have dabbled off and on with making my own laundry detergent for years. The liquid stuff was fun, but a bother to make. Last year I came across a powdered alternative using the same ingredients and gave it a try. I just was not as happy with how clean the clothes were coming out though compared to the Tide I was using. Thanks to Pinterest I am back on the DIY wagon. <br />
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I while back I came across a "Pin" for this <a href="http://www.howdoesshe.com/cheaper-and-better-diy-laundry-detergent/" target="_blank">DIY Laundry Detergent</a>. The time was fast approaching when I would have to pay another 30 bucks for a box of detergent, so instead I rounded up the ingredients for this homemade version.<br />
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Here is what you need if you want to try it for yourself:<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">1 (4 lb 12 oz)</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"> Box of Borax</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">1 (3 lb 7 oz)</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"> Box of Arm and Hammer Super Washing Soda (Note this not baking soda- there is a difference.)</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">1 (3 lb)</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"> Container of OxiClean</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">- Opt. ( I used the Sun alternative because I like to to save money-leaves more for quilt fabric you know!)</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">2 (14.1 oz) Bars of Zote Soap</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">1 (4 lb)</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"> Box of Arm and Hammer Baking Soda</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">- (I always get the the big bag from Sam's so measured mine out with the kitchen scale)</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">1-2 (55 oz)Bottle of Purex Crystals Laundry Enhancer. (I chose the Lavendar scent and used one bottle)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">I found everything I needed at the superstore except for the Zote bars. Our store only carries Fels-Naptha which is what I have always used in the past. Having done a good bit of research it seems that over time the Fels starts to dull the colors on clothes. I still love it as a pre-treater though. The Zote bars I had to order from Amazon-but I am on the lookout for a local supplier as some find them at dollar type stores for around 90 cents rather that the 3.00 dollars a bar I paid.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">You will need a large bucket- five gallon would work well. I used one of my recycling bins. The hardest part is preparing the Zote. We are on a septic and I need the soap to be very fine so that it dissolves easily in the water. My process was to open the bars and let them air dry for a couple of days. Then I zapped them in the microwave for about 90 seconds. If you do this watch very closely and do not leave the microwave unattended. The science person in me loves how this makes the bars a pink oozing blob. Next I popped those blobs into my extra coffee </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">grinder </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">to give me a very fine powder. A lot of people use a grater rather than the microwave method, some even put it into a food processor or blender- do what works best for you and your situation.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Next I started mixing everything together. I added about a third of all of my ingredients and mixed them thoroughly, then added another third of each ingredient, mixed, and then added the last of the ingredients and mixed it all up until I was satisfied that it was all well blended.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">At this point I have to mention the house smelled like a field of flowers, which lasted for several days. Fine by me and the men did not complain. I refilled the Purex Crystals container, two 48 oz containers I had in the laundry room, and 2 1/2 gallon size Ziploc bags with my detergent. I feel like this pink and lavender concoction needs a prettier jar- something like this perhaps:</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Now for the really hard to believe part. I use just 1-2 Tablespoons of detergent per load in my HE machine!!! I may have enough detergent made to last me for a year doing 5-7 loads a week. And I paid less for all of my supplies than one box of Tide that does apprx. 80 loads.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">It is probably just my imagination but the whites seem whiter. What is not my imagination is that I no longer have to add a dryer sheet to my loads, even as we enter the time of year where that static cling seems to worsen. I was totally won over however, when I forgot about a load over the weekend. Usually I have to run it through a time or two to get that musty smell out, but this load smelled just as fresh and clean as if they had just completed the wash cycle.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">I think I finally found a DIY detergent that I can love.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Deb</span></div>
Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-18720129327470314232012-12-05T10:32:00.001-06:002012-12-05T10:32:23.225-06:00 Partners in Evil<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This fall I have been in a battle for the truth. That sounds dramatic doesn't it? But really that is what it boils down to. I have heard things like; it is foolish to suggest we only use the Bible as the source for our teaching, we can use the good points an author makes without agreeing with all that is in the book, that is a sign of maturity (even if that author aligns himself/herself with false teachings.) I am feeling let down by shepherds in the church who are not protecting the sheep from error.<br />
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I read 2 John this morning. It is a short letter from John, the Elder. Some sources believe that the Apostle John was around 100 years old when he penned this letter. It's recipient: "the chosen lady and her children." I don't know who that woman was, some even believe this is code for the Church. Either way this letter is filled with the importance of knowing the truth. That word truth is used three times in just the first two verses and six times in the letter's 13 verses. John was happy to have met some of her children and to have found them living in the truth. I like to think this woman was teaching her children well, but John suggests there is a problem. First he urges her to be obedient to God's command to love one another and adds, "Love means doing what God has commanded us, and He has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning." (NLT1) This morning I am seeing a two-fold meaning here: the first, love one another; the second, recognizing what it means to love someone the way God loves them. It is not a love that is blind, but one that seeks the best for the other, and we know that the best is bound up in truth- love cannot compromise the truth.<br />
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John then moves on to warn her that "many deceivers have gone out into the world." (v.7a) The Greek word used here is <i>Plan'-os</i> and denotes an imposter (noun) and as an adjective signifying "wandering or leading astray, seducing." (from Strong's Greek 4108) John says that "such a person is a deceiver and an antichrist." Wow- we don't say things like that about people- an antichrist?! I guess by definition those "who are not with Me (Jesus) are against me, and he who does not gather with Me, scatters." Such a person would indeed be an anti-Christ. I am more comfortable with the words "false teacher," and even that I hesitate to say, but I think the Church needs to get bold again about calling things what they are as we have allowed too much false teaching to infiltrate the body, we no longer even recognize it or it's dangers. And it's dangers are matters of life and death. Which gets back to the idea of loving one another the way God does.<br />
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So what does John say to this woman about the deceivers? Watch out, be on guard, pay attention, be diligent- so that she does not lose what has been accomplished, but receives a full reward. (v.8) I don't like this verse for it suggests that I can lose ground in my faith. Again, I am led to believe that John sees this as an extremely important issue- something that we must not ignore, for doing so is perilous. Why is it so dangerous? "For if you wander beyond the teaching of Christ, you will not have fellowship with God." There you have it. "But if you continue in the teaching of Christ, you will have fellowship with both the Father and the Son." Sounds so simple really, but those deceivers are really good at what they do, and they do it so sincerely, many because they themselves have allowed themselves to be deceived and so promote false teaching/doctrine. (This is where I hammer in the idea of Sola Scriptura-by Scripture alone. Read The Book, it is the safest place to be if you do not want to wander away from the teaching of Christ. Don't take my word for it, don't take the top selling author's word for it, don't take your pastor's word for it- check everything against this one Book. It takes work on our part, but I cannot stress enough that we dare not be lazy in this regard. John MacArthur has stated in effect that a mark of a true believer is one who has a love for the Word, one who holds it in highest regard and longs to be in it.)<br />
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And now I come to the verses that led me to write as I have this morning. "If someone comes to your meeting and does not teach the truth about Christ, don't invite him into your house or encourage him in any way. Anyone who encourages him becomes a partner in his evil work." (v.10-11, NLT-1991 version) The NASB says to not even greet the person, for in greeting them you participate in their evil deeds. Think twice about buying that book! Think twice about using materials that lend financial support to those who do not teach the truth about Christ. They are out there in our churches dear ones- popular authors who say there is no hell, that everyone is going to heaven for God would never turn any away. There are those out there who would have us delve into the practices of eastern mystics with their teachings on contemplative prayer and the "spiritual disciplines." I read somewhere recently that you can judge an author by their bibliography. Many of the books out there encouraging the modern church in these practices have very interesting bibliographies indeed. Do you know who Aldous Huxley and Thomas Merton were. It is on these mens writings that much of the teaching we hear today is coming from- they are the "fathers" of contemplative/centering prayer. Merton was a Roman Catholic monk who held to the belief that all religions had the same basic truth and Christianity could not lay claim to the whole counsel of God. What do you think John would have to say about inviting the thoughts of these men into our homes, our churches, and yet that is exactly what we are doing when we pick up a copy of Celebration of Discipline for example. I have a copy sitting on my desk right now- I purchased it back in the 1980's when the church I was attending at the time began a study based on this book. I told myself that while I did not agree with everything Richard Foster wrote I could still cull some good ideas from it's pages. Hmmmm- I don't think that argument would go very far with John the Elder. <br />
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And so my thoughts return to the woman John was writing to- and to her children. Some translations say that John met "some" of her children and they were walking in the truth- what about the others? Had they wandered away because the woman had allowed some deceivers into her home?<br />
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Be careful out there today,<br />
Deb</div>
Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-2949739935488780352012-12-03T20:41:00.003-06:002012-12-03T20:41:40.303-06:00Santa Quilt Progress<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have been busy in my workshop (aka quilt studio) the month of November. Someone in my life is getting a Santa quilt. There have been a lot of firsts for me on this one so far. First time to really take a pattern and make it my own. Last year I purchased this pattern from Country Appliques called Belsnickel Santas. <br />
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I chose one of the Santas and made three for the blocks.</div>
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Then I designed a patchwork tree to go with them.</div>
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I wanted to jazz up the background for the Santas so did a crazy patchwork style for them. I also decided I wanted to do an applique border and so far this is what I have.</div>
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Need to finish needle-turning the last three leaves </div>
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and then add heart shaped to-yos to the centers.</div>
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(the stripes on top are the beginnings of the final borders that will finish it off.) </div>
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This is the first time I have gotten serious with needle-turn applique and every so often my fingers needed a break from the pricking so I also have been putting in some time on the McKenna Ryan wildflower quilt I had hoped to finish this year.</div>
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Four more blocks finished and ready to be added to the others:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The last four have not been sewn in yet, <br />but this is how they will be set with the previous blocks.</td></tr>
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And in case that was not enough I also started working my way through Sally Collins book. A very generous friend gifted me with and Amazon card and what better way to spend it than on quilting stuff! This was one of my purchases. I have already seen an improvement in the precision of my piecing, enough so that I am willing to tackle some three inch blocks. More on those later.</div>
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Not as productive a month as I had hoped, but I am enjoying the flow of creative juices and that is something that had been missing for a while.</div>
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Have you got any projects in the works? I would love to hear!</div>
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Blessings,</div>
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Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-34894908423505779022012-12-03T09:26:00.001-06:002012-12-03T09:26:44.410-06:00Sitting at His Feet: A Different Kind of Party?I have some unfinished business at my other blog, where I led a study of Ephesians this past Spring at church. I finished the study with the ladies but never finished posting my thoughts...<br />
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I have been trying to decide what to do for my next study- any suggestions would be appreciated!<br />
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<a href="http://www.sittingathisfeet.com/2012/12/week-10-day-1.html?spref=bl">Sitting at His Feet: A Different Kind of Party?</a>: Ephesians 5:18-21 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalm...<br />
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Blessings,<br />
DebDebra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-74987301562118103322012-11-30T09:47:00.003-06:002012-11-30T09:47:47.603-06:00Everything I Need: Part 3<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Welcome back for Part 3. My emotions are a little raw again this morning. This was the day set aside for Rex's memorial service. I came across a song for the first time this week, or perhaps I just really heard the words for the first time. Steven Curtis Chapman wrote it after the death of their young daughter the summer of 2008. It is titled See. This video has a brief interview in which Chapman explains where the idea for the song came from with the song actually beginning around minute 4:22. Even when our hearts are breaking, even in the midst of those unanswered questions we see things with an eternal perspective and that makes all the difference.<br />
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And that patient endurance in times of struggle leads us to godliness. (2 Peter 1:6b) I have to ask, what is godliness? I pulled out my Strong's Expanded Exhaustive Concordance again (love that title!) The Greek word used here is <i>eusebeia (</i>yoo-seb'-i-ah) which means godliness and Strong's expands upon that to say: "it is from <i>eu</i>, 'well,' and <i>sebomai</i>, 'to be devout,' denotes that piety which, characterized by a Godward attitude, does that which is well pleasing to Him." So then godliness must be a devotion to God that seeks to please Him, in thought and in action.</div>
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Godliness leads to love for other Christians- that brotherly love we hear about. Look how far down the progressive list this is. Can it be that brotherly love does not come as naturally as we think? Can it be that it comes with maturity in the faith? Can it be why the church has such a bad reputation in the world- we do not yet know how to love one another as we should? Jesus said, "<i>A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.</i><span style="font-family: Charis SIL, charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>"</i> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">John 13:34-35, NASB Jesus is not talking about just putting up with people, smiling and hugging them on Sunday at church and then walking away and thinking/speaking poorly about them the rest of the week. He is not talking about telling people we will pray for them and then never giving them another thought. He is talking about loving them the way He loves us- sacrificially, without reservation, without limit. Can you imagine what our churches would like like filled with people like that?! Well, it starts with us dear ones.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"and finally you will grow to have genuine love for everyone." (v. 7b) A love that extends not just to our brothers and sisters in Christ, but to everyone. For God so loved the world...He does not desire that any should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). He loves the Muslim, the Buddhist, the Mormon, the prostitute, the drug addict, the homosexual, the liar, the thief, the murderer. When we look at the people around us do we see a world that is lost, a world in need of the Savior. They seem to think we are in the business of condemning people. Just what do I see when I look at those outside the church. They are people who are lost, stumbling in the dark and most do not even know it. The kind of love that is genuine here is the kind of love that leads me to see them not as the enemy, (which they are not!) but to have compassion, just as Jesus did. Not to condone their lifestyles, but to be salt and light- to show them that what I have found in Christ is so much better then anything they could imagine and it can be theirs too. I am troubled by those in the church today who think we need to change the message to bring people in. A watered down gospel that does not confront sin is not a gospel that will save anyone. Jesus is the only way, the only truth, the only Light, and no one comes to the Father apart from Him. The only commonality between the Muslim and the Christian is that we are both sinners in need of a Savior. </span></div>
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<i>"The more you grow like this, the more you will become productive and useful in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But those who fail to develop these virtues are blind or, at least, very shortsighted. They have already forgotten that God has cleansed them from their old life of sin. So dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Doing this, you will never stumble or fall away. And God will open wide the gates of heaven for you to enter into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." </i>-2 Peter 1:8-11.</div>
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Today our community is remembering Rex. And we do not mourn as those without hope. He was a ten year old light that shone very brightly, and I think I can hear him saying to all of us- "See, it's everything He said that it would be, and even better than you would believe. And I'm counting down the days until you're here with me. And finally, you'll see."</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rex Fleming- a giant of the faith.</td></tr>
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Blessings dear friends,</div>
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Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-56230608935319334592012-11-29T10:12:00.002-06:002012-11-29T10:12:34.346-06:00Everything I Need- Part 2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Welcome back! Yesterday I began a look at 2 Peter 1:2-11 in <a href="http://www.tuningmyheart.com/2012/11/everything-i-need-part-1.html" target="_blank">Everything I Need-Part 1</a>, today I continue beginning with verse 6, "Knowing God leads to self-control."<br />
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Remember God has already given us everything we need for living a godly life and we are taking a deeper look at what that means. First we have to know Jesus, then we have to have faith, then we add to our faith moral excellence, and then knowledge of God, and now we come to self-control. Notice that self-control does not come immediately in this process. It comes as our knowledge of God increases. If it came first in our list then we could say that we are doing all the work and grace would have no place in our lives. Websters defines self-control as "restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires." Oh my, when you put it that way I am not as far along as I thought, but I can see improvement. I still allow anger to rise to the surface in my marriage, but far less than in the past. I have a real weakness for quilt fabric and patterns, but I am learning to put restraints on that spending, s-l-o-w-l-y. I have even started to share my stash of chocolate, sometimes with joy in my heart. We gain self-control when we are being influenced by God's divine nature as we spend more time in His good company. What a difference in my days when I spend time in His Word and in prayer. Are you, like me, ever just fine with being angry with someone- I do some of my best housework when I am mad. That is not self-control. I cannot tell you the number of times I have had an attitude adjustment take place when I stop and spend time with the Lord, nor the number of times that I have not spent time with Him because I did not want to experience an attitude adjustment. Knowing God makes all the difference- there is no shortcut if I really want to change.<br />
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Self-Control leads to patient endurance. Oh, this is perhaps my least favorite thing. It always seems to involve some sort of suffering, some sort of trial. There have been a few of those in my life so far- I wrote about two of them in <a href="http://www.tuningmyheart.com/2012/11/when-god-says-no.html" target="_blank">When God Says No</a>. What do we do when the road gets tough? What do we do when temptation comes knocking. What do we do when it feels God is slow to answer our prayers? Do we give up and walk away? Our lives as bond-servants of Jesus often put us in opposition to the world. I think about my cousin and his family who are in Nigeria where they put their lives on the line to even attend a Sunday worship service. There are those of the faith who are patiently enduring things that I cannot even imagine, so my trials seem pretty puny in comparison. The Greek used here is <i>hupomone</i> which means steadfastness, constancy, endurance (Strong's NT 5281.) When the going gets tough I need to remember that I am exactly where God wants me to be at that moment. He has not changed, His love for me has not changed, His promises are still trustworthy. I need to cling to verses that remind me that I am not alone, that the Lord who made the universe, the King of Creation, the great I AM is always with me and He Himself has said, "I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you."<br />
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And here I am out of time again this morning. I hope you will stick with me for part three...<br />
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Blessings!<br />
Deb<br />
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Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-18727784492427286272012-11-28T11:08:00.001-06:002012-11-28T11:08:24.211-06:00Everything I Need- Part 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Let's see, I've got my drafting supplies...</div>
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Lot's of fabric in my stash to choose from...</div>
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Thread (love the two-sided cases for thread storage I picked up </div>
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from Superior a couple of years ago by the way...)<a href="http://www.pezzettino.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/masterpiece-1-e1331651499235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.pezzettino.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/masterpiece-1-e1331651499235.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Needles...</div>
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Rulers- these are my personal favorites...</div>
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new rotating cutting mat, rotary cutter...</div>
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Assorted notions...</div>
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Iron and pressing surface...</div>
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Sewing machine...</div>
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and even a chair to sit in...</div>
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Add some batting...</div>
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<a href="http://www.fabricdepot.com/assets/productimages/WaCo-level.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.fabricdepot.com/assets/productimages/WaCo-level.jpg" /></a></div>
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have quilt frame on standby (Ken and I built one just like this </div>
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from a kit over 20 years ago, I think I need to stain mine and make it pretty...)</div>
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Yes, it looks like I have everything I need to make a quilt. </div>
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On their own all the individual parts cannot do much, but put them all together and</div>
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Voila!</div>
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I read 2 Peter 1:1-21 this morning and in this letter Peter stated that As we know Jesus better, His divine power gives us everything we need for living a godly life. (v.3) Where does our knowledge of Jesus come from? His Word. It seems these days we want the easy road for everything, we can even take a pill to help us lose weight instead of eating properly and exercising. We peruse the bookstores for books to help us solve every kind of problem we have, looking to people for solutions that God tells us He has already provided. He has given us EVERYTHING we need. That means that there is nothing we lack. So why do we often feel so lacking?<br />
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He has given me all of His rich and wonderful promises (v.4) and I have but to apply the benefit of these promises to my life. It all starts with faith. That faith is grounded in something very specific. Jesus died once for all-He was the ultimate sacrifice that allows us to be reconciled to God. Without that faith none of the rest of this is going to make much sense. Knowing Jesus leads us to that faith.<br />
Faith in turn produces a life of moral excellence. Moral excellence, sounds kind of high and mighty doesn't it. I don't believe Peter is talking about a list of do's and don'ts, I think it simply means to do what is right, in all things, in all areas of our lives. When we really know Jesus there are things that suddenly make us uncomfortable. Sometimes the language we use needs to change, sometimes the things we watch with our eyes and listen to with our ears need to change, sometimes there are habits we need to let go, sometimes even the way we dress needs to change. It means more and more I choose to do the right thing in every circumstance, even if I am ridiculed by the world for it. I think it means that I recognize that right and wrong do exist, despite what the world all around me is trying to sell. "If it feels good do it," it not moral excellence. Interestingly that life of moral excellence that comes from knowing Jesus leads me to knowing God better.<br />
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The journey doesn't end once we come to faith. Simply doing what's right from here on out is a good start, but it is just that, only the beginning There really is no such thing as blind faith-God wants us to ever increase in our knowledge of Him- to open our eyes to the glories of who He is. "Come in-come in! and know me better, man!" (A line from the Ghost of Christmas Present from A Christmas Carol by Dickens)<br />
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There's more! But this is going to be a very lengthy post if I do not break it up somehow. So I hope you will come back and read "the rest of the story."<br />
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Blessings to you this day,<br />
Deb<br />
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Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-68950692821143379152012-11-27T09:30:00.001-06:002012-11-27T10:56:27.087-06:00When God Says No<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I read in Daniel this morning the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. They refused to worship the statue that King Nebuchadnezzar had erected and the penalty for that was to be thrown into a fiery furnace. These men were brought before the king who gave them another chance to serve and worship that gold statue. The king entreats them and then states, "But if you refuse, you will immediately be thrown into the blazing furnace. What god will be able to rescue you from my power then?" This is how those men replied, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us, He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if He doesn't, Your Majesty can be sure that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have put up." (Daniel 3:15-18, NLT1) And so they were thrown into the furnace. A furnace that was made so hot that those whose job it was to throw them into the furnace died in the process, but not Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. The God whom they served did indeed rescue them, not a hair was singed, not a thread of their garments was burned. When they were thrown into that furnace they were joined by a fourth individual and even Nebuchadnezzar recognized the divine being in his furnace. I don't know about those three men, but I would have been desperately praying to be rescued by the Lord before I ended up in the furnace. <br />
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This past week my mind has been drawn back to the last days of my brother on this earth. It was my turn to go and care for him after he began hospice care. The colon cancer had spread to his liver and now the time was drawing short. I spent three precious days with him. Mostly he slept but for brief moments of clarity when we shared a few words. I had to know that it was well with his soul and he assured me that he was looking forward to going home to be with his Savior. Nothing else really mattered. He slipped from this life to his eternal home in heaven surrounded by family and friends who loved him. The very first thing we did was to gather in a circle, holding hands and praying together to thank God for the blessing Jeff had been to all of us here. We also had to acknowledge that it all seemed so unfair. I wrestled a lot in the two years leading up to Jeff's death with what to do when God says no. The pat answers do not cut it when your heart is breaking.<br />
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I have been wrestling with those same issues again, this time as a family in our church has dealt with cancer in their young son. It is well with Rex's soul now too. He went home to the Lord this past Sunday night. And this mother's heart is breaking for another mother. And the pat answers just do not cut it. My questions remain the same, how is this a better story of God's glory than healing would have been? I don't know.<br />
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What I do know comes from my reading of 1 Peter 4:7-5:14 this morning: this world is not our home, not if we are Christians, not if we have the privilege of being called by God's wonderful name. I can trust myself to the God who made me, for He will never fail me. I can give God all of my worries and cares for He cares about what happens to me. In His kindness God called me to His eternal glory by means of Jesus Christ. <br />
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As we enter into this Christmas season what greater reminder is there that this world is not our home. My life is not made by the decorations I put up, the perfect gifts I give, nor the ones I receive. It does not revolve around lights and parties and pageants, and certainly not shopping malls. Christ came into this world those many years ago not so that I could have a wonderful party on earth each year, but that I could have my sins forgiven once for all, that I too might someday meet my Lord and Savior face to face in heaven. So I spent yesterday listening to music, a lot of the great hymns of the faith and some new favorites too. I lifted my eyes towards heaven from whence comes my help. It was no longer a time of fasting and pleading, but of looking towards the One who holds my heart in His hands, the One who saves me, who strengthens me, who comforts me. The Prince of Peace has come into this world and He offers something far better than the trappings of this world. He is my hope. I don't know why God said no once again. He doesn't always keep us out of the fiery furnace, but I know He is right there in the midst of it with us. <br />
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Blessings dear friends,<br />
Deb<br />
(Peter closed his letter with these words, "My purpose in writing you is to encourage you and assure you that the grace of God is with you no matter what happens." I pray I have accomplished the same thing.)<br />
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Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-60837534441146044902012-10-03T17:24:00.000-05:002012-10-03T17:24:16.421-05:00Progress<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had already started on my straightening<br />
up and thought I better snap a quick photo<br />
of my closet "before."</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: left;">I have a confession to make. I let my my favorite room in the house evolve into a mess. The room I refer to as my quilt studio had become a bit of a disaster really. I have struggled for years with finding a way to store fabric that I liked, was easy to use, and more importantly, easy to put away again. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">I had seen those fabric organizers available now and thought they sounded like a good way to go, but with the price I would have to spend hundreds of dollars and there is just no way. On one of the quilt forums someone mentioned using comic boards.</span></div>
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I found them on Amazon and ordered a pack of 100 for under $10.00. They worked just fine. For my fat quarters I cut them in half. I laid out a yardstick on my ironing table and as I "rolled" the fabric onto the boards I measured and included a tag with how much fabric was on the bolt. Now I have a really nice looking closet- my own little fabric shop-that makes me happy whenever I go into my studio. One of these days I am actually going to build shelving that fits the space I have in this closet.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T6GXRdygSdU/UGxg_NvyUwI/AAAAAAAAAmA/tRy8_MTKV7Q/s1600/DSC06098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T6GXRdygSdU/UGxg_NvyUwI/AAAAAAAAAmA/tRy8_MTKV7Q/s320/DSC06098.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That mess of a fabric stash in now organized and I can easily pull out fabric to try on a quilt and easily place it back where it goes. The top shelf has my stash of flannels, batiks have their own section and I can also see which colors I am low on which helps in taking advantage of the sales at the quilt shop.<br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
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Now to get back to work on my quilt! I purchased Tricia Cribbs Sunday School Singers a while back. I love the quilt but was not wild about the stick figures. I shared a while back that I was redrawing the blocks and since this is going to be a baby quilt I am featuring stick figure babies in diapers. I also added some songs that are favorites around here.</div>
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This is where I left off when we left for our summer vacation the first of July.</div>
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I've sewn the blocks and sashings together. Looking pretty good. I still struggle getting my corners to line up perfectly. I've tried pinning, I've tried not pinning, no matter how well I have those seams butted up together I just cannot get a consistent match that I am happy with. This is one of those times when I have had to just let go of being perfect and get the job done.</div>
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Next comes the piano border. I decided I would place them in the order of a rainbow.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strip set sewn together and ready to be cut.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Auditioning the piano border-lookin'good. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I found this wonderful print from Timeless Treasures that will be perfect for the final border.</td></tr>
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Amazing what can be accomplished when you have a nice, neat, pleasant work space. The same can be said of my life. Sometimes I let it get pretty messy in here. Sometimes I am just too lazy to keep things in proper order both spiritually and in the rest of my life. I am reading Phillipians right now. Another one of my favorites. Paul says to the Phillipians, <i>"I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always offering prayer of joy in my every prayer for you all, in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now. For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." </i>(Phil. 1:3-6, NASB) The work that God has started in me will continue. He will not stop until His work is perfected. That gives me great hope and confidence. Especially as I pick up some of the messes of late and get my life in order. My quilt studio is in such good shape that I can walk in, pick up a project, and get to work on what I have started. It is much easier now that all of the tables are cleared off, and I can find whatever I need to finish the task. I think it may just be a little like that with God too. With the clutter out of the way, I am a project ready for Him to come on in and get back to work on. That feels good too.<br />
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Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-18957033552752426822012-09-04T10:15:00.000-05:002012-09-04T10:15:26.052-05:00Quite the Adventure<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="text-align: left;">I have been quiet for quite some time now but with good reason. This summer has been a journey. My family and I traveled to ten states, 5 national parks, and logged nearly 9,000 miles. We hiked and camped and visited special friends, and hiked and camped and visited family, and hiked and camped and hiked some more. </span> My feet are still recovering from all the miles they logged on their own. </div>
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This trip was the inaugural trip for a little camper trailer Ken and I are building. It was all ready to go except for the cabinets, which worked out well because I finally know what I want as far as all the storage areas go. We slept really well- the only problem was when our air mattress gave up on us, but we replaced it with some very thick foam and found our only trouble was we were too comfortable and slept in a lot.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qAGPfgWYWpQ/UEVa102w8pI/AAAAAAAAAho/Ev14POyF274/s1600/DSC02291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qAGPfgWYWpQ/UEVa102w8pI/AAAAAAAAAho/Ev14POyF274/s320/DSC02291.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Building the bed and under-bench storage.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FI72AfNpRD4/UEVaeLmjlZI/AAAAAAAAAhc/Xy4FKSF-JTU/s1600/DSC02303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FI72AfNpRD4/UEVaeLmjlZI/AAAAAAAAAhc/Xy4FKSF-JTU/s320/DSC02303.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Wee bit of a trailer- 6 feet wide x 12 feet long and tall enough for<br />
everyone but our over six foot son to stand in. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xf71DJhbuWQ/UEVb9ZZsA3I/AAAAAAAAAh8/GGF23IflLOY/s1600/DSC02294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xf71DJhbuWQ/UEVb9ZZsA3I/AAAAAAAAAh8/GGF23IflLOY/s320/DSC02294.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Storage shelf across the back came in very handy.</td></tr>
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And the journey begins:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rxKwsRGMhs8/UEVbgrPsr5I/AAAAAAAAAhw/Fu1dkuiiuUQ/s1600/DSC02316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rxKwsRGMhs8/UEVbgrPsr5I/AAAAAAAAAhw/Fu1dkuiiuUQ/s320/DSC02316.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An old wagon at a historic camp in Utah near Flaming Gorge- it had a stove inside,<br />
but we decided we liked our mode of travel better.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8l6vSXr0PRQ/UEVim6VNXiI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/Kia9x-NkcuU/s1600/DSC02565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8l6vSXr0PRQ/UEVim6VNXiI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/Kia9x-NkcuU/s320/DSC02565.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birding in the Grand Tetons</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--FVX6EtjxmU/UEVjhk8-bzI/AAAAAAAAAic/1b00eQ9guiw/s1600/DSC03061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--FVX6EtjxmU/UEVjhk8-bzI/AAAAAAAAAic/1b00eQ9guiw/s320/DSC03061.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Being photo bombed by number one son in Yellowstone</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8b6UXUu9vY/UEVjziwIxII/AAAAAAAAAik/dGSfYFwcNL0/s1600/DSC03174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8b6UXUu9vY/UEVjziwIxII/AAAAAAAAAik/dGSfYFwcNL0/s320/DSC03174.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole family joined up at Yellowstone</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UsPsrNIijME/UEVkIOQkOrI/AAAAAAAAAiw/iJNeep3RPAQ/s1600/DSC03821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UsPsrNIijME/UEVkIOQkOrI/AAAAAAAAAiw/iJNeep3RPAQ/s320/DSC03821.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seattle greeted us with fanfare</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VVCsE8o1C2U/UEVkfrLJhOI/AAAAAAAAAi4/aTFACUyzrHg/s1600/DSC04000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VVCsE8o1C2U/UEVkfrLJhOI/AAAAAAAAAi4/aTFACUyzrHg/s320/DSC04000.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birding on the Oregon Coast</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uaWvoO_rozc/UEVlFr5mMKI/AAAAAAAAAjA/fioVGHpG6Ag/s1600/DSC04422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uaWvoO_rozc/UEVlFr5mMKI/AAAAAAAAAjA/fioVGHpG6Ag/s320/DSC04422.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the Redwoods</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dc0vpe0Hics/UEVlZNxv2hI/AAAAAAAAAjM/2DVx_mSY6tM/s1600/DSC04480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dc0vpe0Hics/UEVlZNxv2hI/AAAAAAAAAjM/2DVx_mSY6tM/s320/DSC04480.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Number two son actually looks small for a change</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tcsJUk9pch4/UEVlwC_7o9I/AAAAAAAAAjU/FyPBVGIpaWM/s1600/DSC04554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tcsJUk9pch4/UEVlwC_7o9I/AAAAAAAAAjU/FyPBVGIpaWM/s320/DSC04554.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cousins near my favorite place on earth- a little spot in Oregon on the Rogue River</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wI2zVR5gYcI/UEVmE_kRZtI/AAAAAAAAAjc/tPtKotqoQhg/s1600/DSC04767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wI2zVR5gYcI/UEVmE_kRZtI/AAAAAAAAAjc/tPtKotqoQhg/s320/DSC04767.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crater Lake, Oregon</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B4Y-_LNijFM/UEVmhRGqs-I/AAAAAAAAAjo/5B0RnzcuMlo/s1600/DSC05104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B4Y-_LNijFM/UEVmhRGqs-I/AAAAAAAAAjo/5B0RnzcuMlo/s320/DSC05104.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More family joined us on the trails at Crater Lake</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ibHUy6CNhqg/UEVnPJjQgDI/AAAAAAAAAjw/JKF00-glCc0/s1600/DSC05413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ibHUy6CNhqg/UEVnPJjQgDI/AAAAAAAAAjw/JKF00-glCc0/s320/DSC05413.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A glimpse of my galley kitchen that needs cupboards</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1VOtQ85oNA/UEVnw3Q0wfI/AAAAAAAAAj4/ug05JezJmOw/s1600/DSC05558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1VOtQ85oNA/UEVnw3Q0wfI/AAAAAAAAAj4/ug05JezJmOw/s320/DSC05558.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of many Oregon waterfalls we hiked to see.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ze4fJBdxxf8/UEVoTz_ye2I/AAAAAAAAAkE/w508RQrW6is/s1600/DSC05593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ze4fJBdxxf8/UEVoTz_ye2I/AAAAAAAAAkE/w508RQrW6is/s320/DSC05593.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One happy Oregon girl back home again.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1U0hy2uIuaM/UEYYDSWnjlI/AAAAAAAAAko/A-peNTRdTV0/s1600/DSC05841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1U0hy2uIuaM/UEYYDSWnjlI/AAAAAAAAAko/A-peNTRdTV0/s320/DSC05841.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On top of MacKenzie Pass Lava field near Sisters. Or.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JHPfuMacCns/UEVoova7RGI/AAAAAAAAAkM/XVwhh9Cfm-A/s1600/DSC05354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JHPfuMacCns/UEVoova7RGI/AAAAAAAAAkM/XVwhh9Cfm-A/s320/DSC05354.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ken's sister joined us camping too. <br />
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That is a glimpse of my summer. I have just a few hundred photos to sort through and I am sure to share more in the months to come. Now it is back to life in Texas- another school year has begun whether I am ready for it or not.</td></tr>
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Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-28672395713576205192012-05-01T14:51:00.002-05:002013-07-08T10:39:04.235-05:00The Breastplate of Righteousness<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Ephesians 6:13-15<br />
<i>Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace. (NASB)</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.clipart.dk.co.uk/DKImages/rome/image_rome001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://www.clipart.dk.co.uk/DKImages/rome/image_rome001.jpg" width="320" /></a>I find it interesting to note that the Lord Himself put on the breastplate of righteousness. (Isaiah 59:17) The breastplate is the piece of armor that protects the vital organs, most importantly, the heart. How important then it is for us to put on this piece of armor.<br />
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So how would you define righteousness? Webster's defines it as "acting in accord with divine or moral law: free from guilt or sin." Is it our behavior? Or is there more to it than that? 1 Corinthians 1:30 states that Jesus became righteousness to us, among other things. Romans 3:10 says. "There is none righteous, not even one." And 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, "He (God) made Him (Jesus) who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." (Jesus)<br />
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So righteousness is not only our behavior, but something that we who are in Christ possess, something we become. How very cool is that! The breastplate we wear is not forged by our own hands, not by our works of righteousness, but Christ's redeeming work on the cross. I had not thought of righteousness in those terms before. Yes, there is much work that I can do everyday to protect my heart. I need to chose to live according to God's ways. I do not want to have a zeal for God but not for His righteousness. Romans 10:1-3 contains such a sad commentary from Paul when he states, "Brethren, my heart's desire and my prayer to God for them (Jews who are lost) is for their salvation. For I testify about them that they have a zeal for God, but not in accordance with knowledge. For not knowing about God's righteousness and seeking to establish their own, they did not subject themselves to the righteousness of God." It is vital for my heart that I submit myself to the righteousness of God. Remember back to my post at the beginning of this series: <a href="http://www.tuningmyheart.com/2012/04/armor-of-god.html" target="_blank">The Armor of God</a>? Oh how Satan would love for us to take charge of our own lives- to be our own master. He would love for us to set up our own rules and regulations to follow, especially if they get in the way of submitting to God. But righteousness in my own eyes is not Righteousness and will not protect me from those flaming arrows aimed at my heart. In this is a reminder for the daily submitting of my own will to the One who is my righteousness.<br />
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Blessings!<br />
Deb<br />
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Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-60037942176473650632012-04-27T09:58:00.000-05:002012-04-27T09:59:05.432-05:00Girding Your Loins with Truth<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH. <br />
Ephesians 6:14a, NASB<br />
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Truth. What is truth? Isn't that one of the questions of the day? Remember at the beginning of this series when I mentioned the tactics that the devil uses. He is the father of lies. Is it any wonder that one of his methods is to try to muddle the truth- to get us to question whether or not God really said something. In contrast, Jesus said the He is the Truth. I am once again reminded how important it is to know and study the book God has given us. We need to be lovers of truth. We need to know that truth so well that Satan is not able to trick us with his lies.<br />
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So what does it mean to gird up our loins with truth? Other translations refer to this as the belt of truth, but in my research I have come to prefer the image of girding our loins. I was fascinated to learn that this was something that was done before engaging in anything strenuous and physical, such as going into battle. The photo I found is actually of a woman who has "girt her loins" as an aide in doing her labor. Can you imagine trying to carry that load and manage a long skirt about your ankles. By girding her loins she has her hands free to carry even more, rather than needing them to deal with her skirts as she walks. <br />
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<a href="http://anneelliott.com/images/indian_woman_working.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://anneelliott.com/images/indian_woman_working.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
This girding up of your loins was more than simply tucking the long fabric of your robe into a belt. The fabric of the knee length tunic was pulled up in front until it reached your upper thigh and collecting the extra material in the front-so that the back of your tunic was snug against your backside. Next, you would tuck the extra material in front between your legs and gather it behind you. Then you divide the material evenly on each side of your back and wrap each side around your waist, tying it together in the front. Now you were ready for battle with your robes tucked neatly out of the way. Girding you loins has come to mean "to get yourself ready for battle," and now it makes sense to me.<br />
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It is the Truth that will keep us from stumbling as we engage in this spiritual battle. Before we can do anything else we have to make sure we have prepared ourselves, we have girded our loins. The rest of the armor won't do us much good if we are tripping and stumbling because we have not taken this very first step.<br />
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I had the honor of sitting under a pastor for many years who often reminded us that those whose work is to identify counterfeit money spend their time studying the real thing, not the counterfeit. They have to know the real thing so well that they easily recognize the counterfeit. I recently read an article about that whole process, and it confirmed this idea. This idea is vital for us as we contemplate girding our loins with truth. From the beginning Satan has been at work trying to twist the truth, sometimes with very bold, blatant lies, and at other times just ever so slightly. Praise God, He has provided us with what we need to counter these attacks.<br />
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Blessings,<br />
Deb</div>Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-36209604858353302272012-04-25T12:03:00.000-05:002012-04-25T12:03:43.496-05:00Take up the Full Armor of God<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Continuing my thoughts on the Armor of God:<br />
Ephesians 6:13<br />
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<i>Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything to stand firm.</i><br />
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We need every piece of the armor God provides. If we are missing even one part of it we leave ourselves vulnerable. This verse exhorts us to "take up" the armor. Imagine what would happen if all I did was keep the armor polished but never actually put it on. All the preparation in the world won't do me any good if I leave my armor home in the closet when I go out. Before my feet even hit the floor in the morning I need to be aware that I am engaged in a battle and take up that which God has so graciously provided to defend myself. When I do that, Paul tells me that I will be able to resist whatever Satan comes at me with. When I put every piece in place I will be able to stand firm.<br />
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What does it mean to stand firm? It means we resist, we refuse to abandon our beliefs, we refuse to budge, we oppose and defend, we withstand. Do you see how important this armor is going to be? Oh, the enemy is a good one for finding out our weaknesses and pounding us in those areas. God has given us the perfect armor to be able to stand even amid these onslaughts. I can hardly wait to start taking up each piece and really looking at.<br />
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Blessings,<br />
Deb</div>Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-24374954252671221492012-04-19T11:51:00.001-05:002012-04-19T11:52:45.684-05:00The Armor of God<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Last night several ladies and I wrapped up our study of Ephesians. Our final study covered the Armor of God. I would like to share with you what I got out of that section of Scripture before I leave it behind for now.<br />
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<i>Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, stand firm. </i>Ephesians 6:10-13, NASB<br />
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<a href="http://jmichaelrios.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/roman-soldier.jpg?w=184&h=300" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://jmichaelrios.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/roman-soldier.jpg?w=184&h=300" /></a><br />
We are engaged in a battle, but it is not with the people we meet on the street. It is not with politicians, or the media, or scoffers, or judges, or whomever else we might be tempted to focus on. Our battle is spiritual in nature and we need to do everything we can so that we can "stand firm." We need the full armor of God. We need every piece of that armor or we will be vulnerable to attack. And we need to "take it up." It won't do me any good if I leave it sitting in the closet, or at the foot of my bed, or tucked away some place collecting dust. I have to make an effort to put it on every day. It sounds so easy- but armor can feel a bit awkward-sometimes it even requires the assistance of another person to put it on. <br />
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What I love about Paul's exhortation here is his statement about where our strength comes from- the Lord. Thank goodness I do not have to rely on my own strength as I face the world with God's armor in place. I also love that I am putting on God's armor and not something that I have fashioned for myself. Satan is a schemer and we cannot become complacent about his role in the world. I think it is important for us to know our enemy. And we know plenty about the ways of this evil one. From Genesis we learn that he is more cunning than any. That he tries to get us to question and doubt God's Word. He tries to make us believe that we can be lord and master of our own lives. (I fall for this one far too often.) He is the accuser of the brethren (Rev. 12:10), he is a murderer, a liar, and the father of lies (John 8:44), and he is a tempter (Matthew 4:3: 1 Thessalonians 3:5). But God has given us the armor we need to stand firm against him no matter what he tries to throw at us. This armor is important stuff and I think it is beneficial that we understand how each piece has been specifically designed to protect us against very specific threats. So I hope you will join me as I delve deeper into the armor of God over several posts to come.<br />
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Blessings!<br />
Deb</div>Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-48822712273459766712012-04-17T12:10:00.000-05:002012-04-17T12:10:53.100-05:00Do You Know Him<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I was asked the other day by a friend if I knew so-and-so. I answered yes, but then thought, I don't really KNOW her. I greet her by name when I see her. I know she is married and has three kiddos. I love her taste in clothes. But I don't really know her, not the details that make her who she is.<br />
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I am always on the lookout when I read through the Bible for insight into who God is. Psalm 86:1-17 provided me just such insight this morning. <br />
From the Psalmist I learned that God is:<br />
-able to protect me<br />
-so good<br />
-ready to forgive<br />
-full of unfailing love<br />
-the One on whom my life depends<br />
-the maker of each and every nation<br />
-great<br />
-performs great miracles<br />
-God alone- there is no other God<br />
-merciful<br />
-gracious<br />
-slow to get angry<br />
-full of truth<br />
-the One who rescued me from the depths of death <br />
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I needed to know that God this morning. I needed to know He is slow to anger and ready to forgive. I needed to know that He is merciful and gracious. I needed to be reminded that I was rescued from the depths of death. I have been struggling with some sin in my life. I can be really good at deceiving myself, not calling it what it is. I was challenged yesterday to face it head on- to trace its "veins" as it has spread deep within my life, and not let any of it go unnoticed or unnamed. <br />
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I spent some time rooting around in the mud with God to find all the areas where this sin has had an impact on my life. Oh my goodness, how can one little sin be connected to so many others?! I spent some time confessing in detail to the One who is ready to forgive, confessing my sins, not in general, but being very specific. I spent some time with Him laying out a plan for the future to help me avoid continuing in that sin. And while it was not an audible voice, I heard very distinctly at the end of my quiet time this morning. "I have told you what is good and right and acceptable, now go and do it." So I am off to do what I have known all along I should be doing- time to stop making excuses for myself.<br />
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I highly recommend you visit <a href="http://www.challies.com/christian-living/the-brambles-and-the-mud" target="_blank">Tim Challies' Blog</a>.
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Grace, Peace, and Mercy<br />
Deb</div>Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-58211580063060850312012-04-13T14:28:00.000-05:002012-04-13T14:28:18.243-05:00My Morning Smoothie<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I read a blog this week that caught my attention, <i><a href="http://walkingthroughthevalley.com/marriage-really-isnt-forever/" target="_blank">Walking Through the Valley</a>. </i>Stephanie and her husband are on a difficult journey and I was very convicted about my own attitudes by what she shared. I hope you will visit her blog and read her perspective.<br />
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The weather has warmed up here and I am switching from my morning cereal to a morning smoothie. A couple of years ago I was introduced to the benefits of Kefir. I decided to take the plunge, ordered some Kefir grains online to make my own milk, and have been loving it ever since. It was so easy to do and was the catalyst that got me interested in making my own yogurt. Kefir is considered a probiotic powerhouse, outdoing yogurt. One of my goals with my diet is to get in two probiotic servings a day, so between my homemade yogurt and homemade Kefir I have no problem meeting that goal. You can purchase Kefir milk at the grocery/health food store, but it is rather expensive. It is also a little tart, so I tend to use it in smoothies, having never really developed a taste for it on its own. I have heard of some people who use it in place of buttermilk...hmmm, maybe I need to try it with my pancake recipe. <br />
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1 cup Kefir milk<br />
1 cup frozen fruit<br />
1 T honey or agave<br />
1 T flax seed oil<br />
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Combine all ingredients in a blender and enjoy.<br />
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This is my process from start to finish so you can see how easy it is.
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About a tablespoon of Kefir grains in glass jar. It is important not to use any metal utensils or containers when making Kefir milk.</div>
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I love these mason jars with the measurements on the side. I add between 1 and two cups of regular milk, depending on how many smoothies I will be making the next morning. Gently swirl contents then cover with a coffee filter and secure. I used to secure it with a rubber band, but started using the ring when my rubber bands all disappeared. It breaks from my "no metal" rule, but as it never comes in contact with the milk I don't think it is a problem. Once that is done simply place the jar in a dark spot until the next morning.</div>
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In the morning, place a fine mesh strainer over the blender and pour out the Kefir milk from the jar. The liquid drains through leaving behind the Kefir grains. I use the wooden spoon to work all of the liquid through the strainer until only the grains remain.</div>
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Kefir grains multiply over time so you will always have more than enough for yourself and some to share with a friend to get them started too. Scoop out the grains and place in a clean jar to start tomorrow's batch.</div>
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Now I have one cup of Kefir milk in the blender. Next I add 1 tablespoon flax seed oil for all of its health benefits, then one tablespoon of either honey or agave. I made the switch to agave last fall because of its lower glycemic index. (If you measure the oil first the honey just rolls out of the spoon.)</div>
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In goes one cup of frozen berry blend. I love that our Sams Club carries the big bags.</div>
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And then it is time to enjoy! </div>
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Ken and the boys really like these too, so when they are around I make a larger batch.</div>
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It really is a simple process. I have even placed my extra grains in the freezer for backup in case I ever lose a batch. The freezer also works well when you are gone for a month or two and cannot tend to the Kefir, which I have done. Just take out your grains, add your milk, and soon it is rejuvenated. Have I enticed you to give it a try? Anyone nearby can just ask me for some grains, otherwise you can find sources online. Just remember, you don't need to buy more than a tablespoon, unless perhaps you are going to make large batches, as in no time at all you will have more than you need.</div>
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Have a blessed weekend!</div>
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Deb</div>
<br /></div>Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-67634248848005614242012-04-11T15:33:00.000-05:002012-04-11T15:33:08.017-05:00Study, Meditate, Obey<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have moved into the book of Joshua for my Old Testament reading. The LORD had some instruction for Joshua as he stepped into the role of leader of Israel after Moses' death. These words in particular caught my attention, "Study this Book of the Law continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it. Only then will you succeed. I command you-be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:8-9, NLT1<br />
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<a href="http://yourdailyword.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/j0400301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://yourdailyword.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/j0400301.jpg" width="255" /></a>I am convinced that those instructions are not obsolete. Yes we have pastors who preach, books that teach, seminars and conferences that inspire and equip, but there is no replacement for spending time studying The Book. I wish I could share with you the wonderful things I have heard from the women in my Bible Study group-for some this is the first time to study it for themselves and they are excited. <br />
Notice that word "continually" in these verses? We have to pick it up over and over and read it for ourselves. Once a week just won't cut it. One of the wonderful benefits we have in Christ is that the Holy Spirit is right there with us and He can illuminate God's Word for us as we read. What an amazing gift! What an incredible resource! We don't have to wonder how to live in this world, God has laid it out plainly for us all to see. We don't have to wonder who to believe, God is the source of all truth. If you have followed my writing for very long you have heard me say it over and over again, my greatest desire in writing is that you will be inspired to pick up this precious gift we have, God's Word, and spend time with Him there. I am here to cheer you on!<br />
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Grace, Peace, and Mercy,<br />
Deb</div>Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-87737313762302979142012-04-09T16:47:00.002-05:002012-04-09T16:48:29.386-05:00A Call to Discipline<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Would it surprise you to learn I am lacking discipline lately? I have been struggling for a few weeks just to do what I know I should and finding all kinds of silly excuses not to. Even my prayer journal has been hit and miss, with more misses than hits last week. How timely that Courtney over at Women Living Well posted this on her blog:<br />
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<a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/2012/04/new-series-5-weeks-5-disciplines-5-challenges/" target="_blank">5-weeks-5-disciplines-5-challenges</a></div>
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The time has come to stop praying about it and confessing my failure everyday and start doing something. I am somewhat limited on physical activity at the moment as I am nursing a sprained knee and sprained ankle. My sweet son Matthew pointed out that I do not have to live with these weak ankles. So I went online and found some suggestions that I am going to put into practice beginning today with the <a href="http://www.csuchico.edu/~sbarker/injury/ankle/ankle_rehab.pdf" target="_blank">Ankle Strengthening Program</a>. With my good ankle I worked through most of these today. (The one using the towel was a lot harder than it looked.) </div>
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The other thing I need to work on: getting to bed at a reasonable time. 10:30, lights out for me.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fOBCjNfzEFc/T4NFvHtjBEI/AAAAAAAAAdM/r5tgj2bdQFU/s1600/DSC07561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fOBCjNfzEFc/T4NFvHtjBEI/AAAAAAAAAdM/r5tgj2bdQFU/s320/DSC07561.JPG" width="320" /></a>Ken and I decided to enlarge the pond in our backyard and began work on it this past week. The first two photos are from this past winter- notice the size of the water feature, the little pond was not much bigger than it.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">My amazing hubby dug a huge whole in the backyard-<br />
16x9 feet at it's widest and two feet at it's deepest,<br />
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Below is the current stage of the pond- notice the size of the water feature- it is the same as the "Before" photos. Still a lot left to do- including choosing plants, and adding a bog area.</div>
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I sat out by the pond this morning and enjoyed my quiet time by this peaceful spot. I enjoyed the sound of the water spilling into the pond as I contemplated what the Kingdom of God is like. <i>Then Jesus said, "What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it? It is like a tiny mustard seed planted in a garden; it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds come and find shelter in its branches." He also asked, "What else is the Kingdom of God like? It is like yeast used by a woman making bread. Even though she used a large amount of flour, the yeast permeated every part of the dough." </i></div>
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<i> </i>Luke 13:18-21, NLT1</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">What if I am that tiny mustard seed? What if I am that little bit of yeast? </span>My part--your part--in the Kingdom of God may seem like a small or insignificant role. Yet when we do our part God can take our wee offering and do something incredible with it. We have no idea the impact our individual lives have on the whole world, or what God can accomplish if we will simply do what He asks of us. I am dealing with the effects of weakness in a part of my body that I never give much thought too, except when I am in pain and can't walk very well. I don't even want to think about what my lack of discipline could be doing to the Body of Christ. <i>In love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies,<u> according to the proper working of each individual part</u>, causes the growth of the whole body for the building up of itself in love. </i> Ephesians 4:15b-16, NASB (Feeling convicted yet?)</div>
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Courtney's challenge to develop some discipline has come at a good time. What about you? Are you up for the challenge? Leave a comment below about what things you want to work on and let's encourage one another as we strive to be the women God wants us to be in 2012.</div>
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Grace, Peace, and Mercy,
Deb</div>Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8912500333144067856.post-35146889466489220902012-04-04T12:08:00.001-05:002012-04-04T12:08:38.228-05:00Retiring to a quiet place<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My reading in Luke chapter 10 brought me to my personal favorite in Scripture, Mary the sister of Martha. The New Living Translation 1st edition renders it, <i>As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a village where a woman named Martha welcomed them into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord's feet listening to what He taught. But Martha was worrying over the big dinner she was preparing, She came to Jesus and said, "Lord, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me." </i><br />
<i>But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are so upset over all these details! There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it--and I won't take it away from her."</i><br />
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It is no surprise to those who know me that I have a Mary heart. Martha was a wonderful hostess- she perhaps had the gift of hospitality. Look what she did: She welcomed Jesus and the disciples into her home. She busied herself with all the preparations necessary to care for her guests. How about you? Have you welcomed Jesus into your home, into your heart? And now that He is there are you busy with all sorts of things trying to make Him feel welcome?<br />
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Mary dropped everything else to sit at Jesus feet and listen to His word. And we are told that this was the better choice. This was a choice that Jesus was not going to take away from her. We are not told what Martha did at this point. Did she join Mary at Jesus feet or continue her preparations, perhaps with an unhappy heart? I like to think she joined Mary, but we just do not know.<br />
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I have a list of prayer requests "a mile long." Praying for others is a good thing. This morning I am gently nudged by the Lord to remember the better thing. To listen to His Word. I start there before I do any praying. There is so much left for me to learn if I am going to be the woman God wants me to be. Even Jesus understood the need to go to a quiet place and we have the record of Him doing so on several occasions. How can I possibly think I can do anything less and be successful in my own work?<br />
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Grace, Peace, and Mercy,<br />
Deb</div>Debra Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02862286793937936924noreply@blogger.com0