Reflecting

I am currently away from my home and not on the computer as often.
So much has been happening, trials which have had me pressing strongly into Gods Word.

I love the book of Isaiah. Opening my bible this morning I read the following.

The spirit of the Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me

To bring the Good News to the poor.......

He will give beauty for ashes,

A joyous blessing instead of mourning.

Festive praise instead of despair.

Chap:61:1
(Such encouragement)

I had just dreamed a distressing dream.
And jumped out of bed wanting to cry out!
But I recognise... Satan is at it again, trying to upset the day.

So instead I wish to share some happy times with you from my memory of the U.S.A.

When I first went to live in Rogersville Tennessee, I thought I was in Heaven.
People were so kind.
I walked into Wal Mart wanting to purchase underwear.
The sizes were different to back in Oz, and in my confusion I stood and stared.
A sweet sales lady by the name of Cathy came beaming kindness, asking if she could help?
Well, she looked at me and picked out my size. All was resolved.
Months later, the tables turned as I nursed Cathy's mother, and helped Cathy with her care.
Both of us were given, Beauty for Ashes.

These may be small incidences, yet when we are open to see Gods love and kindness,
we will find much to be thankful for.

Our home was situated on the side of a hill, in the woods...

Each day I had the joy of watching the squirrels and birds.
Ray had numerous bird feeders to entice cardinals and gold finch..
And those cheeky squirrels helped themselves also...
I had a special prayer room where I could sit and watch the antics.

There is so much good in our lives, yet sometimes we allow the clouds to get in the way.
We allow the storms of life to take over.
Yes, we allow...we choose to let....
Bad, hurtful, or past memories to take away the gift of the day.

I adore a song I learned as a child.
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
NAME THEM ONE BY ONE
AND IT WILL SURPRISE YOU.

WHAT THE LORD HAS DONE.

So if something in your life is hurting and taking away your joy.
Sit down with a piece of paper and begin to list all the good things.
Someones kind word to you.
A smile from a stranger.
The sunshine peeking through your window.
Having the eyes, to read these words..

What a joy life is, just open your eyes and see.

 

My amazed grandson Izaiah, looking at Jesus with Peter the fisherman. 

BE AS A LITTLE CHILD.