Category Archives: Five Minute Friday

From Start to Finish ~ Five Minute Friday

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“And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.” 2 John 1:6(NIV)

From Start to Finish

How is it possible that my grandson, the one who made me a MiMi, is old enough to start Preschool? It seems he was just a tiny bundle in my arms or maybe a wobbly toddler learning to walk, but SCHOOL? Already? It’s hard to imagine that he’s already grown and changed that much!

Isn’t that just life? I’m walking down the aisle, blink, I’m celebrating our 36th anniversary. One moment I’m parenting children, blink, I’m now parenting adults. I’m a brand new teacher, blink, I’m an “ole” retired one. I’m sure you can give your own examples of how quickly time passes. (Watch out young people, it really is true that the older you get the faster it goes!) Things are rapidly changing all. the. time.

You know what isn’t changing as fast as I’d like though? My growth as a Christian. Some days it still feels like I’m taking wobbly baby steps! I let go, move ahead, stumble, fall down, throw a fit, and then have to start all over. Maybe you’re still learning to walk the Walk like me, too. Here’s the good news: God doesn’t give up on us!

“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” Philippians 1:6 (NLT)

When we accept the gift of salvation that Jesus offers us, we’re born again. We start over as “toddlers”, learning to think, talk, act, and yes, walk in the ways of Christ. And just as parents (and MiMi’s) are there to steady, guide, pick up, encourage, and love, God is perfectly doing the same for us. Every time we stumble, He catches us. When we fall, He lifts us back to our feet. Each time we whine and complain (throw a faith fit), He lovingly disciplines all the while reminding us that growing takes time.

Yes, time is funny.  It can seem to pass in the blink of an eye like when watching a child grow and yet, when looking at our own progress, time can also feel as if it is dragging its feet. BUT, from start to finish, God is the One in control of our pace. He helps us “wobbly toddlers”   mature and grow in our salvation day by day and He won’t stop until that perfect time arrives when we don’t just walk, but we run into the arms of Jesus for eternity.

“But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 (NLT)

I’m joining http://www.fiveminutefriday.com on Monday this week instead of Friday. I got a late start. “Start” is the prompt by the way. I’d love to know your thoughts on your challenges in your Christian walk and/or examples of how time passes for you. Just jot them down in the comments.  Thanks for being here.  I appreciate it more than you know!

Mrs. P.’s Testimony ~ Five Minute Friday

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“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” James 6:16b (NIV) / Pixabay

Not long ago, I attended the funeral for a lovely lady in our community.  The eulogies given by those who knew her were warm and endearing.  The last person to speak was her son.  What he shared with us challenged me to take a look at my own life. Maybe it will challenge you as well.

After a time of exchanging cherished family memories that caused laughter and tears to spill out at the same time, her son then reflected on his mother’s prayer life.  He called her a “Warrior on her knees”! He shared that he’d often wondered how much of what had happened in the lives of his family was a direct result of their mom’s fervent prayers.  In addition, he was also curious about the number of bad things that hadn’t happened to them because of their mom’s fervent prayers. Then this grieving son asked a powerful question:

“Now, who will take her place?”

Who will take her place?  Who will take over where she left off? What a testimony to a life!  A woman remembered for her prayers; an intercessor, so dedicated, that her passing would leave a vacancy, not easy to fill. Just imagine… WANTED: Someone able to lift heavy burdens. Must be available all hours of the day and night. Dedication to, persistence, and confidence in results required. Needs to be prepared to work in private. Able to manage large case loads. Now, who will take her place?

Driving home after the service that question kept playing over and over in my mind and I started thinking about the testimony my life offers to those around me. Guess what? In the area of prayer, Worrier came to mind before Warrior!  Let’s be honest, NOBODY needs to fill that position!

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything.  Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.  His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT)

I didn’t know Mrs. P. well.  I wish I had! This quiet, behind the scenes worker, a Sister in Christ, lived a life here that affirmed a great faith, declared her abundant love, and professed the power of prayer. Even from her Heavenly home, her witness has challenged me to spend more time on my knees than I do wringing my hands. I can’t think of a better testimony of a well-lived Godly life than that! Can you?

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

I’ve written this in memory of Mrs. P. to the prompt “Testimony” and have joined the other writers over at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com 

I look forward to seeing the directions others have taken their writing in today.  I encourage you to click over and read for yourself! I pray Mrs. P.’s testimony has touched you in some way and if it has prompted you to think about your own life testimony, I’d love to hear about it! Just leave me a note in the comments! As always, thank you for being here!

Looking Back~Share Four Somethings

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Labor Day weekend is upon us! How can it be that we’re already looking back on August? I don’t know about you, but for me this summer has passed in a blink of an eye! One good thing about month’s end though, is joining with others at http://www.heathergerwing.com to look back at our Four Somethings.  It also just so happens that today’s prompt at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com is “Back” thus, I’ve decided to do double duty with this post.  So sit “back” and relax as I share a bit of my month with you. And then…I’d LOVE for you to share your Four Somethings with me in the comments.  Here are mine:

Something Loved

“Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.” Philippians 1:3 (NLT)

My heart’s been happy this month because I’ve been able to spend time with some of my favorite people in some of my favorite places! It’s always an adventure when I’m with my grandsons. Just after this photo was taken the entire jug of bubbles spilled onto the patio. I immediately got the hose to spray it off but looking back now, I realize it wasn’t my best idea.  I’ll just leave it to your imagination to figure out what happened next!

I’ve recently returned from a trip back to Michigan to visit my mom and sisters.  We aren’t able to get together as often as we’d like, so each visit is a true blessing. There’s something special about being with those who’ve known you the longest and love you anyway! Whether it’s spending time watching my grands growing up or spending time with those I grew up with, I’ve loved making memories that I’ll now look back on and treasure!

Something Said

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” Philippians 4:6 (NLT) / Pixabay

There are several things about myself that I’m working on to change. One big one is the amount of time I spend worrying. Looking back, I’ve realize just how much time I’ve wasted “rehearsing disaster” that’s never happened! As I’ve already said, time slips by in an instant and I don’t want to spend what I have on worthless worry.  It’s time for a wake up call!

I love it when right at a time I need them, just the right words are shared. How appropriate that my need for a wake up was met with words said about an alarm clock! I’d never thought to compare worry to an alarm clock but it resonates with me and maybe it will with you, too. The idea is that we can let our worry work as an alarm clock, warning us that there’s something we need to pray about.  AND…..we certainly don’t let an alarm clock keep ringing once it’s done its job of getting us up, so we shouldn’t let the worry alarm keep ringing after we’ve taken our concerns to God, either. I love that visual and hope to apply it from here on out and to not go back to letting worry take up all my time!

Something Learned

“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.” Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NLT)

What a great time I had this month working along side my daughter while learning to do something new! We were invited to attend a workshop at a new shop being opened by our family friends called “Board and Brush”. It’s a wonderful place where you can go to created fun and unique decor projects from scratch!  We learned how to assemble, distress, stain, and stencil. I was so thankful for the support and encouragement I received to help me complete my sign. The experience was so enjoyable that I hope we can go back and do it all again very soon!

Something Read

“Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.” 1 Peter 4:9-10 (NLT)

Oh this book! Through stories of her homes, gardens, communities, friends, and family Christie Purifoy creates images of place and home which inspired me to reflect on the places that have contributed to bringing me where I am and helped create who I am. The emotions she shares and the knowledge she offers create a symphony of words and thought that made it hard for me to take my eyes from the page.  The subtitle: “Cultivating Places of Comfort, Beauty, and Peace” is exactly what this book does for the reader! If you desire to stay in the home you have, long for a home from your past, or dream of a new home in the future, this book is perfect for you! With her beautiful writing style (and beautiful it is….I might have a tiny or not so tiny case of writer’s envy) Christie takes us on a spiritual journey which reminded me that no matter where it is, God’s gift of home is meant to be shared. “Placemaker” is a book that I could read from front cover to back again and again and learn something new each time! I loved it!

Well there it is!  August was a good month but I must admit I am looking forward to September bringing some cooler weather and the introduction of Fall with it.  As you look back on this past month, I hope you too, can see many blessings.  Don’t forget to share a few of them with us! God willing we can share our September Four Somethings too so…….

Y’all come “back” now! Ya hear?
(sorry, just couldn’t resist)

Five Little Words ~ Five Minute Friday

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“This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.’ ” Matthew 6:9-10 (NIV)/ Pixabay

“Not my will, but yours.” Five little words. Literally, they are small words but when combined together, their message is life changing! Jesus spoke these five words as he struggled with the knowledge of what He was about to face. In that moment, He asked God to take the job He was there to do away from Him. And yet, in the same breath Jesus added those five little words confirming His commitment to God’s plan.

“He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, ‘Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.’ An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.” Luke 22:41-43 (NIV)

I don’t know about you, but I find the five little words: “take this cup from me” much easier to say than telling God I’m willing to let go of my will and follow His! “Not my will, but yours” opens us up to all kinds of challenges! Like the fishermen, we may have to leave behind what we’ve known and are comfortable with, even if we don’t feel ready. Great sacrifice may be required of us as it was asked of Abraham when we don’t feel strong enough to handle it. “Your will be done” can even cause us to endure suffering as it did for Jesus though we lack trust. Yes, “take this cup from me” slips from my lips more easily than it should!

“Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21 (NIV)

Did you catch those five words in the middle? “Equip you with everything good.” God doesn’t expect us to do His will on our own! When we accept the sacrifice of the blood of Jesus, our lives are changed! All of our even if’s, don’t’s, can’t’s, wont’s, and anything else that can get in our way of doing God’s will are worked on until they become the good that we need to equip us to be able to accept the cup He offers.

What’s God calling you to do? Is there an idea, project, a person’s need, or dream that won’t go away? Do you find ways to avoid it? Make excuses for why it won’t work or isn’t for you? Boy, I sure do! But, remembering that we are not on our own to face the things of this world and that God is strengthening and preparing us for what’s ahead makes it possible for us to kneel down and confidently say those five little words: “Not my will, but Yours” and believe them!

Today is the five year anniversary of Kate leading the writing community at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com
My goodness! I wanted to really stick to the five minutes today in honor of that, but of course, once again, I went over.  Well, there’s always next time.  I encourage you to click over and read the other wonderful posts on the prompt “Five”. And as always, I’d love to chat with you! Share in the comments what you feel God is calling you to do and I’ll share mine with you.  We can then pray for each other to trust that God is equipping us for the job! 

Distant Memory ~ Five Minute Friday

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“Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?” Matthew 6:27 (NLT)

Distant Memory

Standing in the spot from where this picture was taken, if you squint your eyes and look intently, you may be able to make out the row of windmills that line the ridge of the most distant mountain. And if the atmosphere is just right, though they’re miles away, you can sometimes even see their blades whirling and swirling as they work to capture energy from the wind.

Would it surprise you if I said that there have been times in my life when I’ve been stuck in that very spot? Oh, not physically, but rather, emotionally. You see, as much as I hate to admit it, I’m a worrier! I can be “lying down in green pastures” but instead of appreciating where I am, I’m looking off into the distant future, squinting my mind’s eye, and focusing intently on what may or may not happen down the road. My fears whirl, twirl, and churn a mile a minute and those anxious thoughts capture my energy, leaving me exhausted! Maybe you’re a little like that sometimes, too. So what’s a “windmill of worry” to do?

Plug into the One and Only True Power Source, of course!

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your request to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7(NIV)

“I look up to the mountains- does my help come from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth!” Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV)

How do we plug into God’s power? It’s all about where we’re looking, isn’t it? We need to begin to ask ourselves if we’re focusing on the mountains of potential problems we’ve created or is our focal point the Creator of all, who offers peace in every situation? I’m pretty sure we all know what we should answer and I wish I could say that I’ve reached the point in life where worry no longer demands my attention. I can’t. But, what I can tell you is that I’m not stuck gazing into the distance anymore. Through prayer and study, God is helping me and he’ll help you too, to more quickly recognize when anxious thoughts begin to spin out of control so that we can capture them before being completely blown off course. To “not be anxious about anything” is a process.  A process of trust. A process of prayer. A process of turning to God again and again and again… until that glorious day when finally, worrying will be nothing more than a distant memory!

It’s not Friday and I wrote for longer than five minutes, but I’m still linking up with the talented writers at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com

My hope for this blog has always been connection between you the reader and me; to help each other as we walk this journey. So, I would love to hear how you deal with times of worry in your life. If you feel led, please share your thoughts with me and others in the comments.  And I encourage you to click over and read what others have had to say about this week’s prompt “distant”.

 

 

Willing Footsteps

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“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,” 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)

Willing Footsteps

My seatbelt was fastened and sunglasses in place. The radio volume was up and my toes were already tapping to the beat of a Praise song. I was all set for my trip across the mountains.  Having allowed enough time to get to my destination with a little to spare, things were moving along smoothly, that is until it came into view….that unexpected, unplanned for, “BE PREPARED TO STOP” sign!

First in line, I pulled up leaving a polite distance between the flagger and the front of my car, all the while averting my eyes from the actual man standing at the sign. Turning the volume up a little more hoping to pass the time singing along to my favorite songs, I prayed I wouldn’t now be late. The chorus of the first song hadn’t even played when out of the corner of my eye I caught a movement as  the man and his sign headed my way. My hope that he was only moving out to the middle of road so others could see him, was dashed  as it became clear that my driver’s side window was his destination. Nervously, I turned the radio down, tried to swallow my panic, and pushed the button to lower my window.

His sun-leathered skin was in stark contrast to the neon green shirt he had on.  A hat, sunglasses, and beard hid most of his face from my view but couldn’t begin to conceal the smile he wore as he approached the side of my car and me. What happened next was a total surprise and changed my day! As you might guess since I’m writing about it now, it’s left a lasting impression.

“Do you know Jesus?” he boldly asked me. Once I’d confirmed that I was indeed saved and headed to Heaven some day, this unlikely Apostle shared his own story of salvation.  He also added that while he was the owner of the paving company he took every opportunity possible to stop his managerial duties so he could man the flag to tell others about Christ.

Soon, the “Follow Me” vehicle appeared and it occurred to me that following this truck would lead me out of the work zone but following the actions of the flagger, my brother in Christ, would take me right into the midst of it!

So, here’s the big question: Am I willing… Are we willing to “be prepared to stop” what we are doing in our everyday lives to share the Gospel with those around us? I’m afraid that more than once I’ve had the could have, but instead of meeting the opportunity with a smile, I hesitated for one reason or another and missed the chance. My encounter with a preaching flag man has inspired me to do a better job because my friends, there’s no doubt that sharing the Good News is the task that God has prepared for each of us:

“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’ ” Mark 16:15 (NIV)

“In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge:  Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.”
2 Timothy 4:1-2 (NIV)

“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard: And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’ ” Romans 10:14-15 (NIV)

There’s no way to know how many lives in addition to mine, the “Fisher of Men” I met in the middle of the road has impacted, but I’m pretty sure his work-boot clad feet look absolutely beautiful to God! I pray that you and I are willing to follow in his footsteps!

And if you’re willing, I’d love to hear about people who have inspired you with their witness.

 

 

Five Minute Friday~Take

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“Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name.” Isaiah 40:26a (NIV)

Take Time to Look Up

Perusing through the photos on my phone, I have realized that lately I’ve been looking up. A lot! Many of my recent pictures are of the sky in one form or another: bright blue, brilliant orange, soft pink, framing the moon, a backdrop for birds, and other scenes above that have captured my attention. Swiping through the images makes me wonder why I’ve been so drawn to the sky. Thinking about it I’ve realized that when I’ve taken the time to lift my eyes upward, everything else around me seems to simply fade away and for those few moments, I find peace as I’m immersed in the beauty above me.

It has occurred to me, that this attraction to the sky is really a reminder that taking time to look up should not just be a photo opportunity, but rather the way I live my daily life. I don’t know about you, but when challenged, facing a problem, or in the need of wisdom, my first reaction is usually to seek worldly solutions on my own. I mean, Google does seem to have an answer for almost everything!  I also look to those around me for advice, read a book, post, or blog that seems to address the issue, and sometimes even try to reason it out in my own little mind. In reality, there’s nothing really wrong with any of these approaches, unless that is… we allow them to block our view heavenward! Living with our sights set down here on only what the world has to offer is like trying to take a picture of the sky from beneath an umbrella. Our vision is greatly limited! **

“Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.  Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.” Colossians 3:1-2 (NLT)

Setting our “sights on the realities of heaven” changes our perspective. When we take the time to look up: to praise, give thanks, repent, worship, seek, and pray; the things of the world begin to grow dim. We find peace as we are captivated by the beauty of grace.  And. We. Are. Changed!  And when those storm clouds fill our sky? Well, God may send us to just the right friend, guide us to a perfect reading, or bring clarity to our own thoughts.  Who knows? Maybe He’ll even use Google to help clear things up. The important thing is that now we’re looking at the world through God’s lens instead of our own and it helps us put our focus on what’s important.

So, the next time you step outside, take time to look up! Notice how the green leaves contrast against the brilliant blue. Wonder at the countless stars that light up the night. Pause as the sinking sun paints with pinks and purples. And then, look up further……..

“So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe.  This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.  So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God.  There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”
Hebrews 4:14-16 (NLT)

**five minutes

Joining http://www.fiveminutefriday.com writing community to write to the prompt “Take” today. It’s always fun to see all the different directions each writer takes with the same word! Click on over and see for yourself.

 

 

 

 

 

Well ~ Five Minute Friday

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Well Child Check-Up

“Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along.” 3 John 1:2(NIV) / Pixabay

Not long ago I came across my children’s little medical record books. Now, it’s been a long time since I’ve had to make an appointment for a Well Child Check-up. But back when my kids were young, we made regular trips to the doctor’s office to confirm all was as well on the inside, as it was on the outside. Our Pediatrician would listen to each little heart, check the reflexes in active legs, test the accuracy of their vision and hearing, and document the evidence of growth. While we usually associate going to the doctor with being sick, the premise of these check-ups was to focus on our children’s good health and preventing problems in the future.

When I schedule an appointment now, instead of Well Child it’s a “Well Senior” Check-up, however the idea is the same. Maintaining our physical health helps us live full and hopefully long, productive lives. But, let me ask a question. What about monitoring our Spiritual health? How long has it been since you or I have had a “Well Child of God Check-up”? I’m afraid I can often overlook this part of my health even though I know that being well with our souls is vital to truly living. Unfortunately, I usually spend less time looking after the me that only God sees than I do on the me that the world sees.**

It’s time to come into the presence of the “Great Physician”. And guess what? No appointment’s needed! He’s always ready and waiting to help us be our best.  So first, He’ll listen to our hearts to let us know if they’re in rhythm with His:

” ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ And the second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.’ ” Mark 12:30-31 (NIV) 

Next, He’ll check our Spiritual reflexes to show us how quickly we respond to His call :

“As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew.  They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen.  ‘Come, follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.’ At once they left their nets and followed him.” Matthew 4: 18-20 (NIV) (emphasis mine)

Then, He’ll help us determine if we have eyes that see and ears that hear:

” ‘Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? The King will reply, truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ ” Matthew 25:37-40 (NIV)

” ‘The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.’ ” Luke 8:14-15 (NIV)

And finally, He’ll reveal our rate of Spiritual growth:

“Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.  Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is Christ.” Ephesians 4:14-15 (NIV)

As a young mom, making regular appointments with the Pediatrician reassured me that we were doing all we could to keep my children in good physical health. Daily visits with our “Great Physician” do the same thing.  Through The Word, prayer, praise, and worship, we can have confidence that we are developing fruitful Spiritual health. Taking care of our minds, bodies, and souls helps us live life well, both now and on into eternity where there’ll be no future problems for us to worry about at all!

“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8

So who’s ready for a check up? I know I am!

I’m linking up with the other talented writers at Kate Monaung’s site http://www.fiveminutefriday.com This week’s prompt is “Well”.  What does that bring to your mind? Share with me in the comments.  I love to hear from you!

**Five minutes

 

 

 

 

Promised ~ Five Minute Friday

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Promised

“But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.” 2 Peter 3:13 (NIV) / Pixabay

We don’t have to look much further than our social media feeds, tv, or magazines to find lofty promises of a better life! Pills that will let us lose that extra weight WITHOUT dieting or exercise. Creams that will give us back the skin of our youth. Investments that are sure to make us wealthy. Books and classes that will reveal the solutions to our problems. It seems that all these promises have something in common: they can be ours for…..a price.

Now, I must admit that I have been quick to succumb to one or two of these tantalizing offers myself over the years and there’s nothing wrong with wanting to improve and be the best that we can be. But, here’s a question to ask ourselves: are we as quick to seek the promises of God to help improve our spiritual selves and be the best Christians we can be, as we are those worldly promises? I’m afraid my answer hasn’t always been “yes”.

“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8 (NIV)

God’s promises fill the Bible. He promises us rest, wisdom, strength, peace, forgiveness, and the list goes on and on. All these promises have something in common too, they are ours for….a price; but this price was paid when Jesus went to the cross carrying our sins. Wait, there’s more! God’s promises aren’t just for this earthly life but they continue into life eternal!

“And this is what he promised us – eternal life.” 1 John 2:25 (NIV)

Although younger skin, a fit body, or more money in the bank might be nice; the truth is they are all things I’ll have to work for to achieve, not things found through a quick fix infomercial. I’m continuing to learn, slowly but surely, that the temporary, worldly desires of my heart are nothing compared to what God desires for your heart and mine! And He’s already done all the work for us! All we have to do is accept His gift.  So, let’s try to eat a little less, apply some sunscreen, and spend more wisely to help us live our best physical lives. But more importantly than that, let us always feed on His word, apply his teachings, and spend time gaining His wisdom, so that our spiritual life leads us right into eternity just as He has promised!

The prompt this week at  http://www.fiveminutefriday.com is “Promise”.  I’ve already read a few other posts and are they ever good! I encourage you to click over and read for yourself.  I actually thought I’d stick to the five minute time limit this week, but nope….went over again.  Oh well, there’s always next week!

 

 

Opportunity ~ Five Minute Friday

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Just hopping on here for a short time as I wait for my daughter, son-in-love, and two grandsons to arrive.  I need something to distract me from watching the clock! Today’s Five Minute Friday prompt is “Opportunity” and you don’t want to miss the opportunity to read what other wonderful writers have to say about it, so click over to http://www.fiveminutefriday.com

Smile Opportunities

“May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace.” Numbers 6:24-26 (NLT) / Pixabay

Looking through the Bible for last week’s post, I was amazed at how many times it’s recorded that Jesus touched people and changed their lives! Of course I knew of the familiar stories, but the more I looked, the more I found. As I was thinking about today’s prompt, I wondered how many opportunities we have to touch people’s lives? We of course, can’t make the blind to see or raise someone from the dead, but we can touch others in a way that does make them smile!

I’ll be honest, there are many days when I’ve been grumbling under my breath, focusing on worried thoughts, or feeling frazzled in all I have to do, but then someone catches me by surprise and in the midst of whatever was bothering me they cause me to smile. I don’t know about you, but those small almost imperceivable acts can change my outlook in that very moment. I remember vividly a time I was traveling by myself and my car broke down.  Luckily it was in a well lit, public place but needless to say I was scared and frustrated.  As I sat with my hood up waiting nervously for AAA, a gentlemen strolled by. He caught my eye and smiled a most reassuring smile. I couldn’t help but smile back and I’m telling you in that instant I felt so much better. If another person can take the opportunity to touch our lives then it’s important to remember that we mustn’t miss the opportunities we have ourselves, to touch the others around us, too!

Smile opportunities aren’t complicated. They don’t require a great deal of work,  a lot of money, or even a commitment of too much of our time. Here are just a few that I’ve thought of off the top of my head:

*Allow someone to go in front of you in line
*Return another person’s grocery cart to the stall
*Hold the door
*Send a card 
*Write a note (my husband leaves me one by the coffee pot so my days always start with a smile)
*Give a hug or pat on the back
*Compliment a stranger
*Compliment someone you know
*Pay for someone else’s meal anonymously 
*Leave a larger tip than necessary
*Be polite
*Smile at the people you stroll by

These are just a drop in the bucket. The list is limitless! Just think of the difference we might make if we’d set out every day to act on the smile opportunities that come our way!  I’m reminded of those old song lyrics that say something like when you’re smiling the whole world smiles with you!  I believe a smile is contagious,  don’t you?

In his life, Jesus went from place to place, looking for those in need. When he found them (or they found him), he didn’t hesitate to make their lives better.  Guess what? In our lives, we’re encouraged to do the very same.

“Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need.  These are the sacrifices that please God.” Hebrews 13:15-16 (NLT)

So, let’s challenge ourselves to be on the look out for smile opportunities as we move through our days. And you want to know the great part of accepting this challenge? Taking advantage of the opportunity to make others smile can’t help but to make us smile too!  It’s a win-win challenge!!!! How often does that happen?

I’ve got the pantry and fridge stocked with the kids’ favorite foods and some fun treats waiting for them. I can’t wait for them to get here and see their smiles! Who have you helped find a smile today? I’d love for you to add to my quick list!  Please share in the comments ways that you like to take the opportunity to make others smile. Because you know, the longer we make our list, the more the world will be smiling and I think we need all the smiles we can get, don’t you?

“We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do.”
Mother Teresa