Daily Following Him

2012-02-28T17:42:00.000-08:00

2012-02-21T15:41:00.000-08:00

What Would You Do?

As we begin the Lenten season on Wednesday, I started thinking, what if I only had 40 days to live? Perhaps we have all known or heard of someone who went to the doctor for one minor problem, and then was told they had cancer and only months to live. I can’t even imagine how that would feel, or what I would do.

While Jesus didn’t need a doctor to tell Him of His fate, He was still a man and had human feelings. I can’t help but think that Jesus had this question on His mind because He did know the exact day and time He was going to die.(Matthew 26: 1-2) How could He go on each day, knowing that His time was at hand? Well according to the Bible He did just that..He went on each day doing the work His Heavenly Father sent Him to do. He continued to preach and heal people. He continued to walk with the poor and eat with the sinful and He continued to prepare Himself as a living sacafice for us.

As Jesus went about His business, what was He thinking as each day passed and He grew closer to the cross? I think if I were in His sandals, I would be spending most of my time either begging God to change His mind, or trying to find a good place to hide!

Thank goodness Jesus was faithful and brave. He was God, but He was also a man. He was a man who let His human side show when he prayed to His Father in the garden, “My Father if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Matthew 26:38 And He was God when he defeated death for our salvation.

What would you do if you only had months to live? I hope I would be like Jesus and be faithful to my Heavenly Father. I hope that I would spend my last days living for Him, knowing that “not my will, but His will be done.”

Peace,

Kelly

2012-02-14T08:39:00.000-08:00

1 Corinthians 13

The Way of Love

Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.

Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.

We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!

But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.

Peace,

Kelly

My Sweet Husband

2012-02-10T19:35:00.000-08:00

Get to Know the Rev. Steve Spining: Minister new to Baldwin but no stranger to the Gulf Coast

ROBERTSDALE, Alabama -- The Rev. Steve Spining started his career as a youth minister.

"I felt God calling me into the ministry. I started off in youth ministry. I was in youth ministry for about 10 years. That was all I ever wanted to do," he said.

"And then slowly but surely, I just kind of felt God nudging me toward becoming a pastor," Spining said. "I was scared to death. I probably used up every sermon I had ever preached in my first two weeks. I was petrified. But I wouldn’t want to do anything else. It’s the greatest privilege in the world, in my opinion, to be part of the greatest work in the history of the world and actually get paid for doing it. It’s an honor to be a part of it."

In late June, Spining, 48, was appointed pastor of Robertsdale United Methodist Church. The congregation gathered after its July 11 service to welcome the new pastor.

The pastor said that in his short time there, he has found the Robertsdale community to be warm and friendly.

A native of Harvey, Ill., Spining grew up all over the South and the Midwest.
He received his bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1984 from Ball State University in Muncie, Ind.
"But you can’t really do anything with a BS in psychology," he said.

Spining then attended Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Ky., where he received his master’s in divinity in 1989.

While Spining is no stranger to the Gulf Coast, this is his first time living in Baldwin County, he said.
He spent time as a youth minister at churches in Andalusia and Dothan before serving as pastor of churches in Pensacola and Grand Bay. For the past five years, he was pastor of Hope Hull United Methodist Church, near Montgomery, until receiving his appointment to Robertsdale earlier this summer.

"I love it," he said. "I have found the people to be friendly."

Spining said he’s in discovery mode with his new congregation, which has been averaging 200 to 225 in attendance at services.

I think we have some wonderful worship services. I’m still kind of in a process of discovering exactly where we are right now," he said. "I’m sure there will be some changes that will be made, but at this point I’m kind of still in the process of discovering and then discerning and then we’ll decide where we need to go. It’s change enough for people to get used to a new pastor coming in," he said.

He expects to remain in discovery mode through August, learning as much as he can. Then he said he plans to spend September and October discerning where God is leading him and the church and then in November and December making those decisions on where the church needs to go from there.

Along with its various ministries, the church has a history of helping the needy by providing food, medical and utility assistance, school supplies and uniforms, and temporary shelter as part of its Family Promise program.

"It’s a great church. There’s just some wonderful, wonderful people here," Spining said. "I’m just very, very happy to be here. Robertsdale has a great history."

When time allows, he enjoys hiking and backpacking in the Appalachians and is a college football fan, particularly of Auburn.

A Change

2012-02-10T18:19:00.000-08:00

As you can see I changed the background of my blog. I thought it was time for something new. I know I could have been a little more creative, but I really don't know how to make a lot of changes to my blog. I need to get the book "Blogging For Dummies" Maybe I would learn something! Oh well.

I will probably change it again in a few weeks. Let me know if you have any ideas or things I can add.
Peace,
Kelly

Peace

2012-02-08T09:14:00.000-08:00

"Today may there be peace within.

May you trust that you are exactly
where you are meant to be.

May you not forget the infinite possibilities

that are born of faith in God, yourself and others.

May you use the gifts that you have received,

and pass on the love that has been given to you.

Let this settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.."

Thank you to my friend Terri who sent this beautiful message to me.

Peace,

Kelly

Doggone!

2012-02-05T12:19:00.000-08:00

Thank you to my friend Carol for putting this on her facebook page. I love it, and the advice is good. It does help to sit down and think about things when we are angry and feel like biting someone's head off!

But have you ever felt like the puppy on the bottom? Sometimes the things in life can just overwhelm us, and "sit" on us until we want to cry UNCLE! Next time that happens, don't cry uncle but cry GOD. He is the one who can lift the weight from us and get us back on our feet. Puppies are cute and fuzzy, but our problems aren't. Take comfort in knowing that God feels our pain and is there with a helping hand.

Peace,
Kelly

2012-01-31T16:12:00.000-08:00

“As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

John 9:5

Words?

2012-01-30T08:56:00.000-08:00

Blessed are they who have nothing to say, and who cannot be persuaded to say it.

Amish Proverb

Have you ever said something that you regretted the minute it came out of your mouth. I know I have. I really tend to speak before I think. And when I do know what I want to say, it tends to come out all wrong. I think that is why I like to write so much. I can put my thoughts and feelings down on paper, reread them, and erase and change things if I need to! Wow, I wish my mouth had a built in eraser. I think it truly is a gift to be able to hold your tongue. You may not think it is as hard not to speak your mind or give your opinion if you are a quiet person who likes to keep to yourself. But the things we say don’t just come out of our mouth! Many times our body language speaks volumes. I am embarrassed to admit that I have turned and walked down another aisle in the grocery store if I saw someone I knew that I really didn't feel like talking to that day. I have also crossed over to the other side of the street just avoid a homeless man sitting against the very building I wanted to go in to. I think we have all done things like that.

While it is wise to guard our words, we don’t need to always guard our actions. In my mind Christ was a very quiet man on earth, but when he did speak people listened. He was not persuaded to say things that he thought would protect him, or make others respect him. He spoke the truth..the good, the bad, and the ugly. While his words were powerful, his actions went beyond our comprehension, and hung upon the cross for all to see. His pain and suffering spoke of his love for us. While on earth, he never walked away from someone who needed him just because he didn’t feel like talking that day, or because that person was poor and dirty. In fact those are the people he “spoke to” the most.

What can I do in my life to “act” like Jesus? Well I think I can start by choosing my words carefully and keeping my mouth shut sometimes. But I should never keep my heart shut. True love comes from within..I can speak the truth but it will be useless unless I live the truth. I must strive daily to follow the path God laid out before me, listening to His words and walking in the steps of Jesus.

Let your actions go before your words, and guard your tongue. Then you won't need an eraser. You might be surprised how much people will really listen!

Peace,

Kelly

2012-01-25T08:22:00.000-08:00

…Be honest in your estimate of yourselves, measuring your value by how much faith God has given you. Just as there are many parts to our bodies, so it is with Christ’s body. We are all parts of it, and it takes every one of us to make it complete, for we each have different work to do. So we belong to each other and each needs all the others.

Romans 12:3-5

(The Living Bible)

I’m Right And You’re Wrong!

How many times have you been a position that you would do almost anything to prove that you were right? I have been feeling that way a lot lately. My husband and I have been married for only 5 months and it has been the biggest blessing in my life, but…. It has been an adjustment! We are both so set in our ways and I struggle with wanting to prove myself right to him so much of the time. It’s really nothing he has done (except not doing things my way), but it is the pressure I have put on myself. I somehow feel so much of my self worth is wrapped up in the way other people see me. I want to be seen as strong and confident and right. Not mixed up and confused. I think that if I am wrong about something, I have failed. Because of this struggle, I find myself looking at the little things that bother me instead of the things that are really important. Now I feel that it is good to stand up for something you believe in, and fight for what is right, but does that include when to leave the light on and when to turn it off?

Go back and read the passage at the top again. Think about what it is really saying. We are all important and valued by God. He doesn’t care if we are right or wrong, he just cares about us. Stop and take time to read the entire chapter of Romans 12. I think you may get a little more understanding of what God thinks is important. I find comfort in knowing that I don’t have to prove myself to Him. I just have to have faith to accept myself for who I am, I also must accept others for who they are as well. It doesn’t matter if we all agree when the light should be turned on, or when it should be turned off. The main thing is that we work together, merging our own unique ways of living in order to present ourselves complete before God. The light will be on when I stand before him on judgement day. I hope He likes what He sees!

Peace,

Kelly

Can You Hear Me?

2012-01-21T09:28:00.000-08:00

Being a teacher in my past life, I recall many days that I wanted to crawl into a hole and cover up my ears. I thought if I heard my name being called out one more time I was going to scream. The children didn’t seem to understand that I could only listen to one question, story or demand at a time. I used to tell them that my ears were going to fall off because they were so heavy from all of the noise inside of them. Of course the kids just gave me a blank look.

Do you think God ever feels that way? Can you imagine how much “noise” He hears every day? I only had 18 or so children needing my attention all at once, but just think of how many of us God has to listen to at one time? I can’t even comprehend the thought. I guess that is why He is God. 1 John 5:14 says “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us”. I often wondered (and still do) how God could really keep up with all of us and our requests (and sometimes demands). I struggle daily in wondering if He really hears me when I pray or call on His name. But I have to maintain my faith and believe that He does. He is God and He can see and hear all things. What a comfort that is! I just have to accept and have confidence that “if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us”. I’m glad to know that He is always listening!

Peace,

Kelly

All I Need

2012-01-11T06:22:00.000-08:00

Ps. 91: 14-16

“Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
He will call on me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him.
With long life I will satisfy him
and show him my salvation.”

.
Shamefully I must admit that I sometimes wonder what God has done for me lately. I guess I have gotten used to having a place to live, clothes to wear, and food to eat. I have gotten used to having my needs met without even thinking about it. So naturally I think I deserve more. (ouch!) Then every once in a while I give myself a reality check. I was reading Psalm 91 today and realized this was one of those times. I started thinking, God is the Almighty One. He created the heavens and earth just by speaking. He created me just by loving. And He saved me just by giving. Yet I think I deserve more? He did all that for me, and all I have to do in return is acknowledge His name. Sounds pretty simple to me. And here’s the best part. In return the God of the universe will be with me in trouble, honor me, satisfy me with long life, and show me His salvation. I certainly don’t deserve any of that! But yet He hands that to me every day on a silver platter, no questions asked. Read Psalm 91 today and ask yourself what more do you deserve. I know my answer, “I have all I will ever need”

Peace,

Kelly

Where Are You Going?

2012-01-09T16:40:00.000-08:00

The path is not straight, but the goal is clear

Are we on the right path? We hope so, but how many of us really reach our destination? We have grown up hearing that Jesus is the only “path” to heaven, but what does that really mean? Does it mean that being the best puts us on the right path? Does it mean that knowing more, puts us on the right path? Or perhaps it means that being special puts us on the right path. We can all strive to walk on the path of righteousness. However we may be walking alone unless we ask Christ to join us. We don’t know where that path may lead. We didn’t create that path. But if we walk with Christ, we can be assured that we will not get lost. We may encounter some bumps along the way. However, we can tighten our grip and hold fast to the reassurance that we have a guide that will not lead us astray. While our goal may not always be clear, His is. He wants our path to lead us to eternal life in Him. This is a goal that can be achieved if we only trust and look for the signs along the way.

Let God lead you on the path to His love. Let Him take your hand and guide you along the way. He knows where he is going!

Walking in Christ,

Kelly

Time

2012-01-07T08:14:00.000-08:00

Days are like suitcases, all the same size but some people are able to pack more into them than others.

Amish Proverb

Have you ever sat down at the end of the day and wondered where the time went? If you are like me, you spend most of your days wishing you had more time! I must admit that my life has slowed down a lot and I do have more time, but I tend to let it just slip away. I spend my “time” thinking about what I need to do, but fail to do it! I spend my “time” planning for things in the future, but fail to plan for today. And I spend my “time” seeing what other people have done with their time. Reading the proverb above made me think..what if we used our days like an old suitcase, really trying to pack as much in it as possible. When we go on a trip, we tend to take the things we think we really need with us. While our suitcases may be bulging at the zipper, we think we must have everything in that suitcase in order for us to really enjoy our trip. Nine times out of ten, we really didn’t need most of the clothes we packed at all. We end up worrying about losing our luggage and paying extra (when we fly) for things we could have left at home. To be honest, we could probably survive with taking the smallest suitcase we have, and just packing a little differently. Could we do that with our days? Perhaps if we thought more about our destination, instead how we were going to look when we arrived there, we could pack much differently.

Let’s put it this way, we could pack ten suitcases with our entire life in them, but won’t get off the ground if we forget to book our flight! Having priorities is the key to balancing the weight of our suitcases (and days). We can make all the plans in the world of what we think we need to do in a day, but we won’t go anywhere if we don’t know where we are going. Daily reading the Bible and seeking God’s help at the beginning of each day can help us “pack” what we really need for another leg of our journey. Some days our suitcases may feel heavier than others, but that is when we may need to make a baggage check! Take out what you don’t really need and lighten your load. You’ll be surprised at how high you will fly!

Soaring in Christ,

Kelly

Victories

2011-12-29T20:47:00.000-08:00

Take joy in the little victories in your life. That is what I hope to do in the new year. We all have different definitions of victory. Of course when I think of the word victory I think of “winning” something; coming in first place or at least beating someone else. But it is so much more than that. A true victory is accomplishing something you may not really have a desire to do. It is easy to train for a marathon if you are a runner, or train for a swim meet if you love the water. But how easy is it to really work at something you don’t like?

True victories come from struggles to just make it through sometimes. True victories also come from failures. A victory can come in the form of a kind word when you really don’t feel like talking. Or taking a few extra minutes out of your day to help someone else when all you want to do is go home and curl up on the couch. A victory can come when you say I’m sorry, I was wrong, or I forgive you. A victory may come in the form of saying no to something you know is not right or is not good for you. A victory can also come from saying yes, or I will try my best.

For some people getting out of bed and choosing to move forward is just as big of a victory as winning a gold medal. We all have our challenges and our battles that we must fight within ourselves. Remember the song “Victory in Jesus”? I am reminded that I don’t have to be the best at everything I do to be victorious in my life. My victory comes in Jesus who “sought me and bought me with His redeeming blood.”

As the New Year approaches remember that we can be victorious daily when we ask for the help of the one who experienced the ultimate victory over death. Face the challenges in your life head on and appreciate each victory, no matter how big or small it might seem.

Peace,

Kelly

2011-12-18T13:18:00.000-08:00

In a moment the shepherds stirred, the angels sang
The star shined bright, the heavens rang
In a moment a mother cried, a child was born
The earth stood still
On that Christmas morn
In a moment He walked the earth and showed his worth
His fate sealed with His human birth
In a moment He was a man and lived as one
Yet He cured the sick, a heavenly son
In a moment He felt a kiss that sealed His fate
He prayed for all for His Father’s sake
In a moment He felt the nails as they pierced His hands
His life He gave for woman and man
In a moment He listened to His mother’s cries
She felt His pain, with every sigh
In a moment He laid in a grave so bare and cold
Just like the stable so long ago,
But now His time had come to win
Salvation for all the souls of men.
And so He rose with Heavenly Grace
The love of His Father in every place
Don’t let the moments pass you by
As you live your life and as you try
For every moment stands in time
As one continuous heartfelt rhyme
For He is waiting and He will come
At any moment to take us home.

Wishing you peaceful moments,
Kelly

How Did I Get Here?

2011-12-17T17:16:00.000-08:00

Have you ever ended up somewhere you didn’t want to be and you’re not quite sure how you got there? This is my dog Ellie, and my son-in-law likes to put her in “time out” in some very strange places. She looks like “what just happened to me...one minute I’m running down the road free as a bird, and next minute I’m stuck up here!” As funny as this may seem, I think we have all been in Ellie’s spot at one time or another. We tend to do what we want, when we want to, and we fail to think of the consequences. We get ourselves in some pretty hairy spots. We don’t know how to get out of them without someone reaching out their hand and helping us. Isn’t that the way it is with God? He is always reaching out his hand to get us out of the hole we dug for ourselves, back to the shore when we are up a creek, and down from the tree when we are out on a limb. Ellie was eventually taken down and went on her happy little way, and I bet she will run down the street again , but at least she has someone to save her from herself.
I’m glad we do too!

· Peace,
K Kelly

Ourselves

2011-12-07T13:38:00.000-08:00

My husband has the privilege of giving communion to the residents of a local nursing home once a month, and I have the honor of helping! We went this past Sunday and I continue to be touched by the intellect and helplessness of some of the people who attend. My husband presented a question to the group by asking, “What can we give Jesus for His birthday?” Some of the residents muttered their answers under their breath while others sat, looking as if they were deep in thought. However this one beautiful lady, who was born with cerebral palsy, and could hardly speak, managed to say loudly, “OURSELVES”. Now that was the answer I was thinking of, but to hear it come from someone whose body was twisted and deformed from years of living with her condition, and who remained in constant pain, touched me. Her comment opened my eyes, and I saw her in a way I had never seen her before. I didn’t see a woman in a wheel chair, trapped in a body that didn’t work, or a woman who could not take care of the simplest of her needs. Instead I saw a woman who had the faith and the insight of a saint. I saw a woman whom God made and whom God loved. I don’t understand why Judy was born with this terrible handicap, but I do know that she has been blessed by God’s unconditional love, and she has blessed others with her childlike faith. If we could all understand what Judy seems to know so well, we would know that it doesn’t matter who we are or how we look. Jesus just wants us! What a great gift! Share His gift with others this holiday season and feel his blessings!

Peace,

Kelly

Dig In

2011-12-01T07:05:00.000-08:00

Recently, my daughter got me a new Bible for my birthday this year. It is the Life Application Study Bible, and I really love it. It is full of so much background information and insight to what the verses are saying…very easy for me to understand. As I was reading in it this morning I started to underline a passage that seemed important, but then I stopped. I stopped because I didn’t want to “ruin” the pages in my beautiful new Bible! How crazy is that? You see my “old” Bible was full of highlighted passages, and notes scribbled around the pages. Some pages were worn and the cover was torn. Not very “pretty”. So I really wanted to keep my Bible looking as new as possible. I admit that I sometimes look at other people’s Bibles in Sunday School class or a Bible Study and think “wow, you should really take better care of such an important book.” But is that what God wants us to do? Does He want His word to be put on a shelf and only pulled out carefully when we want something good to read, or does He want us to get our hands dirty, and really dig into His word. The pages of a Bible are just that, pages. But the words of the Bible are truth. A truth that needs to be highlighted, underlined and marked in our hearts.

I can’t wait to “ruin” my Bible and turn the pages with my dirty hands. In God’s eyes, a well worn Bible is a sign of a well worn life, and that is beautiful and new to Him.

Peace,

Kelly

Are You Listening?

2011-11-30T17:52:00.000-08:00

I think you will like this! Listen to the things around you, and you just might be able to hear yourself in the process. Thank you to my friend Joan who shared this with me.
Peace,
Kelly


klkharriso@yahoo.com has shared a video with you on YouTube: Stethoscope Man finds a stethoscope with unusual powers. He discovers what soundtrack is playing inside him.

The Year Round Harvest

2011-11-27T15:40:00.000-08:00

Come, Ye Thankful People, Come

Text: Henry Alford, 1810-1871
Music: George J. Elvey, 1816-1893

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for, but it doesn't need to be just once a year. I love the hymn below. Read the words carefully and remember that God cares for us all year long. We are His harvest, and He is our caretaker. One day He will gather His harvest in. I hope we will be ready.
Peace,
Kelly

Come, ye thankful people, come,

raise the song of harvest home;

all is safely gathered in,

ere the winter storms begin.

God our Maker doth provide

for our wants to be supplied;

come to God's own temple, come,

raise the song of harvest home.

All the world is God's own field

fruit as praise to God we yield;

wheat and tares together sown

are to joy or sorrow grown;

first the blade and then the ear,

then the full corn shall appear;

Lord of harvest, grant that we

wholesome grain and pure may be.

For the Lord our God shall come,

and shall take the harvest home;

from the field shall in that day

all offenses purge away,

giving angels charge at last

in the fire the tares to cast;

but the fruitful ears to store

in the garner evermore.

Even so, Lord, quickly come,

bring thy final harvest home;

gather thou thy people in,

free from sorrow, free from sin,

there, forever purified,

in thy presence to abide;

come, with all thine angels, come,

raise the glorious harvest home.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T06:15:00.000-08:00

“Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds.”

Theodore Roosevelt

As Thanksgiving draws near I am tempted to think more about Christmas! I must admit that I started decorating my house all ready. I love the holidays and all that goes with them. But I know that the feeling of Thanksgiving shouldn't just come once a year. I love the quote above from Teddy Roosevelt. How true that is. We have been given a lot even if we don't think so! We all have a place to live and food to eat. We may not have all that we want, but we have all that we need. That is certainly a reason to give thanks. If we are to be Christlike in all we do, we need to start with our attitude of thanks. I thank God daily for my blessings, but must admit that is as far as it goes most days. I need to show my thanks to God by the attitude I have and the way I treat others. I may not be able to support a hungry child half way around the world each month, or provide clothes and shelter for the homeless, but I can give a smile to the person who has no hope, I can give a kind word the person who is struggling with doubt and resentment, and I can give my time to listen to someone in need of an understanding ear. By giving of myself to others I can thank God daily for all He has given me.

Live Thankfully

Peace,

Kelly

2011-11-20T19:00:00.000-08:00

Matthew 6:26

"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

I woke up this morning to at least 20 doves, and several squirrels having breakfast in our front yard. I stood at the window for several minutes just watching them eat. I began thinking about how helpless they really were, depending on “nature” to provide food for them. I started thinking; they are just birds and squirrels but yet they had plenty of food to eat.. I really don’t think they called each other the night before and said “let’s go to Steve and Kelly's house tomorrow morning for breakfast. They have lots of good stuff in their front yard to eat.” No, of course not, but God took care of them, and provided for them through nature. To me this should be an example for us as Christians. Aren’t we a little more important than the fowl of the air or the cute squirrels we see in our yard? We should realize that God will provide for us no matter what, we just need to have faith. We can come to the breakfast table knowing that He is there waiting for us, ready to give us whatever we need. Now that is a reason to give thanks! I hope you will remember the many blessings God has provided for us not only during this time of Thanksgiving but throughout the year. Share those blessings with others, letting the people you know (and don’t know) how important they are to our Heavenly Father.
Sharing in this time of Thanksgiving
Kelly

I Am Third

2011-11-18T05:13:00.000-08:00

“This is my command: Love each other.”
John 15:17

Captain John T. Ferrier was an Air National Guard Pilot and worked for United Airlines. He also served in the Korea war. But on this day, he was doing something that he loved, he was flying with the Air National Guard’s jet precision team at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base outside of Dayton Ohio. After finishing a very difficult maneuver, Ferrier was trying to regain control of his plane when it began to roll. Captain Ferrier was in trouble and so were the people and their homes in the small town of Fairborn which lied on the edge of Patterson Field. His friend watched in horror from his aircraft as John’s plane spiraled out of control, heading for the ground. “Bail out”, he radioed to John, but no response. Suddenly there was a terrible explosion, the plane had hit the ground, and John was gone. Amazingly, the plane had crashed in between four houses in a backyard garden. But this was no accident. Captain Ferrier could have saved himself if he would have bailed out minutes earlier as his friend begged him to do. But the plane would have likely hit a house if not more than one, perhaps severely hurting and possibly killing someone. However, John stayed with his plane, controlling it the best he could. He risked his life to save others.

Several days later his widow found a worn card in his wallet. All it said was “ I’m third”, two small but very powerful words. If we could all live with the attitude that Captain Ferrier had. He strived to put God first, others second, and himself third. I don’t think third is such a bad place to be do you! You may have learned this in Sunday School…. To have true JOY, you must put Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself last. Words to truly live by.

Have a joyful day!
Peace,
Kelly

Hospitality

2011-11-14T18:42:00.000-08:00

"We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth." 3 John 1:8

My husband and I had the honor of hosting an Open House for our church family last Sunday. The church has provided a wonderful home for us to live in, and we wanted to share it with them. It was such a wonderful afternoon full of fellowship and love. As I was reading in my quiet time this morning, I wanted to see what the Bible said about hospitality. There were several passages that mentioned it, but I really was drawn to 3 John 1:8. When some people hear the word hospitality, they instantly think of hosting dinners and get togethers at their home. They may even think of having friends or family staying in their home for some length of time, doing all they can to make them feel comfortable. Sometimes our motive for being "hospitable" may be selfish in nature however. We may want to have people in our homes just to brag and show off our latest purchases. Or we may want to have people over so they can see what great "Marthas" we are...doing all we can to take care of them, while we complain the entire time and miss the true reason why they are there.

Romans 12:13 says, "Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality." The Life Application Study Bible really helped me understand what God is looking for in us as Christians. Christian hospitality is very different than social entertaining. A lot of the time entertaining focuses on the host and the home. Many hours are spent preparing food, and cleaning the house. We can become so consumed with the preparations that we can't even enjoy the occasion. But true hospitality focuses on the guests and their needs. Whether it is a hot meal to eat, a warm bed to sleep in, or just a place to relax and feel safe, the guest come first. Hospitality can happen in a messy home, (thank goodness), or a mansion. It can take place at a table set with the finest china, or sitting on the floor with paper plates. As the verse says, "Share with God's people who are in need." That means the homeless man on the street that asks for money, the father who just lost his job and can't provide for his family, the woman who is lost and all alone. Kind words, prayers, and help can go a long way in providing for someone who just wants to feel whole again. This is a form of Christian hospitality.

It may feel as if you don't have enough to give to someone else, or that what you do have is not good enough..but that is not how God sees it. All we have to do is open up our hearts to others without worrying about impressing them with the best that we have. True hospitality comes from a spirit of giving to others in Christian love. They say that home is where the heart is. I can’t wait to see my home is heaven one day, and come face to face with the Host of my life.

Peace,

Kelly

Our Story

2011-11-09T11:10:00.000-08:00

“Some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious ambiguity..."

~Gilda render

I read this quote the other day from Gilda Radner, a wonderful comedian who lost her life years ago to cancer. I’m not sure when she made this statement, before or after cancer, but it really got me to thinking about the words she said.

We should view our lives as a wonderful and interesting story that God has written. While we physically have a clear beginning (birth) and a clear ending (death), it is the middle that fascinates me the most. I disagree with Radner and the first part of her statement, but it is the rest of the quote that struck me. Of course we don’t have a roadmap of our lives or a set of directions to refer to every time we have a question. And there are so many times in our lives that we just don’t know what is going to happen next. But that is where God comes in. That is where faith comes in.

When I was younger and would read a book, I would always “cheat” and read the ending of the story about half way through the book. I either became bored with the book, or I just couldn’t wait to see what would happen. What a relief to know that I don’t have to do that with my life. I already know what is going to happen when my story ends. I know that the final chapters will be written by the One who matters the most. We may not know what is going to happen tomorrow or next week, and we all will encounter situations that we just have to “make the best of”, but isn’t that all so much easier to face knowing that we have God in our corner? I think we can help God write our story by the way we live and the way we act. We all can give him some good material to work with! But the good news is that no matter our story, the ending is the same..salvation through His son Jesus. Now that sounds like a best seller to me!

Peace,

Kelly

The River of Life

2011-11-08T17:21:00.000-08:00

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb. Revelation 22:1-3

New Title?

2011-11-06T19:01:00.000-08:00

Well it looks like my blog is not living up to its title. I have not written anything since Thursday. Many excuses I guess. But the truth is that I don't want to write something just to have a post, I want it to be meaningful to me and hopefully to someone else. And so I won't write much tonight except that I am in the process of trying to live up to the title of this blog..Daily Following Him. I must admit that I haven't spent much time in prayer or reading the Bible over the past few days as I would like. But I have taken the time to stop and reflect on how blessed I am as I spent time with my girls this weekend. God's grace is good, and His gifts are even better! Thank you God for all of my gifts and thank you for loving me Daily!

Peace,
Kelly

Freedom

2011-11-03T04:46:00.000-07:00

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1

I saw this verse this morning and I had to briefly write about it. I thought about the word slavery and all the meanings it could have. Of course we think of the horrible act of slavery that took place so many years ago in our country and still occurs around the world today. But I feel that the Bible has a different interpretation of slavery in this verse. We can all be slaves to things of this world; money, greed, a job, alcohol, drugs. But Christ broke those chains of slavery when he died on the cross..setting us free. We are to stand firm and accept the freedom that Christ gave to us. The burden of sin has been lifted. "Free" someone else today by showing them the way to the cross. Let Christ lift their burdens just as he lifted ours.
What a blessing to be FREE!
Peace
Kelly

It Is Well With My Soul

2011-10-30T19:18:00.000-07:00

“When peace, like a river, attendeth my way

When sorrows like sea billows roll

Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,

It is well, it is well with my soul.”

I’m reading a book by Kenneth W. Osbeck that gives the background of some of the most popular gospel songs of our times. Osbeck states these songs were written out of personal experiences of the writers, and are heartfelt expressions of their undying faith in God. One of my favorites, “It Is Well With My Soul” was written in 1873 by Horatio Gates Spafford, a young attorney from Chicago. Spafford planned a trip to Europe for his family, a wife and 4 daughters. He was detained in Chicago for business, but sent his family on, promising to meet them in Europe as soon as possible. Halfway across the Atlantic, the ship was struck by another vessel and sank in twelve minutes. Back in Chicago, Spafford was packing for his journey, when he received an urgent telegram which said, “Saved alone. Your wife.” Spafford’s wife was the only survivor of the family. They lost all four of their daughters at sea. I can’t even imagine what Mr. Spafford was thinking as he boarded another ship for Europe, knowing that he would only find his grieving wife waiting for him. He later recounted that when the ship seemed to pass over the sight of the terrible accident at sea, he stood on the deck and looked out over the ocean. It was at that moment that he was able to respond to his loss by turning to his faith in God. The words “When sorrow like sea billows roll—whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, it is well with my soul”, flowed through his mind and gave him peace in the face of tragedy.

We all face times in our lives when “sorrows like sea billows roll”, but we can take comfort in knowing that our God is the master of the sea and everything around it. Take refuge in His strength and have the faith to say through whatever trials you may face, “it is well with my soul.”

Peace,

Kelly

River of Life

2011-10-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Psalm 78:15-17

He split the rocks in the wilderness and gave them water as abundant as the seas;

He brought streams out of a rocky crag and made water flow down like rivers.

2011-10-25T17:43:00.001-07:00

Chances

I heard a phrase a few months ago that I can’t seem to shake. “Choose a second chance”. I have thought about those words almost every day since I first heard them. They are four very simple but yet very profound words. They are also words that are easy to say, but hard to live. How many of us wish we had a second chance to say “I love you”, “I’m sorry”, or “I’m proud of you”? Second chances seem to pass us by each day. They are laid out before us, but we are too blind to see them. We are blinded by fear, by pride, and by ignorance. We fear that we don’t deserve a second chance, we are too prideful to say we need a second chance, and we are ignorant to the fact that we can be saved by a second chance. Thank goodness that my God is a God of second chances. Thank goodness that He looks beyond my fears, beyond my pride and beyond my ignorance. He could have given up on me a long time ago. But He didn’t. He came to me with arms open wide...in His hands the gift of a second chance...the gift of eternal life. If He did that for me (and you), shouldn’t we do that for each other?

Is there someone in your life that deserves a second chance? Maybe you are the one who deserves that chance. Maybe by accepting that chance you can learn to accept others for who they are and the chances they deserve. Think about it, pray about it, and choose it. God doesn’t offer something he doesn’t want you to have.

Finding peace in a God of second chances,

Kelly

Let Your Light Shine

2011-10-23T16:36:00.000-07:00

Having taught Kindergarten for a number of years, I learned a thing or two myself along the way. I was lucky enough to have taught at a Christian school where things were centered on God. Every year at this time, we would take the children to the pumpkin patch and then come back and carve a pumpkin for each class. We would use the pumpkin to provide the children with an illustration that I think we could all understand. We talked about the fact that in order to be able to put a light in a pumpkin as is the custom, we had to first get all the “yucky” stuff out of the inside. We would cut open the top and proceed to scrape out all the gook allowing each child to get a handful themselves. We compared the “gook” to the sin we have in our heart, and how we can’t have the light of Jesus in us until He comes in and “cleans us out”. But first we have to ask Him to come into our hearts. After we got the gook out and carved the face (always happy of course) we put the candle inside and lit it. We would turn off the lights, and allow the glow of the pumpkin to light up the room. I will never forget the first time I heard this illustration and what a simple understanding it gave me of sin.

Of course all of us have carved our own pumpkins through the years and we fully understand what a messy job it can be. But I always found joy in seeing it lit up at night, a soft glow coming from every opening I had created.

Jesus’ job on the cross was a very messy one. He allowed himself to be cut and carved in our place. He allowed himself take all of our “gook” with Him to the grave. But he didn’t stay there long. He rose victorious, leaving our sin behind. Next time you see a pumpkin I hope you will remember this illustration and remember how lucky we are to have a Savior who comes in our hearts and cleans it out whenever we ask. May His light always shine in you!

Peace,

Kelly

Going Out on a Limb

2011-10-21T07:10:00.000-07:00

As up can see from the picture, we saw these “cute” bears enjoying an afternoon snack one day in the mountains. It was amazing that we could get so close to them and take several pictures. What was also amazing to me was their sense of balance and how the small tree (compared to others there) could hold the weight of the mother. We watched the bears for at least 15-20 minutes and never once saw them lose their footing or seem afraid as they edged closer to the red berries. I was also intrigued by the fact that the thin branches of the tree didn’t seem to even bend let alone break as the bears moved around. If I only had the faith of those bears to go out on a limb so to speak, and have sure footing, knowing that the branch was not going to break. Hopefully with time and lots of prayer, I will come to see that my Heavenly Father is that tree and that His branches can hold all the weight of my life without breaking or even bending. Praise God!

Going out on a limb in life is not the hard part, but trusting is. Trust Him and “branch out”. The farther you go, the better the view.

Peace, Kelly

2 Corinthians 5:7

2011-10-11T15:50:00.000-07:00

The Path

My husband and I were lucky enough to take a trip to the mountains a few days ago. It had been years since I had been up that way and experienced the beauty of that part of the country. Needless to say, we did lots of hiking (and lots of panting and complaining). Of course the terrain was very rough at times, but the views were well worth it! As I was hiking this one trail which was pretty level, I wanted to make sure that I knew where we were going and didn’t get lost. I kept my eyes fixed to the ground just ahead of me so I wouldn’t lose my footing on the rocks or fallen branches. Of course the ground was full of fresh fallen leaves, but I was surprised by the number of tree roots that were exposed. As I became more confident with my walk, I began to look around more. I didn’t want to miss anything. I saw the beautiful colors of fall, rock filled streams, and even hoped to see a deer or two. I soon became so focused on looking all around me, that I didn’t look down at the path for some time. Suddenly I tripped over one of the roots that were sticking out of the ground and almost fell. That brought my eyes back down for the rest of the walk.

As Christians I think we are somewhat like that. We tend to keep our eyes on the ground, focused on what is right in front of us, afraid to look ahead. We miss so much of what surrounds us by doing that. The “big picture” is lost in our tunnel vision. But other times we may be so busying look around, looking for something better, that we miss what is right in front of us. We stumble and fall, and then we become afraid again. If only we could “balance” our vision. That is where faith comes in. We have to have faith to follow the path that God puts before us. We have to have faith to be able to look ahead without the fear of stumbling, and look down without missing out. There are many roots in our lives, waiting to trip us up, but if we continue to be so afraid to look up for fear of stumbling, we might miss out on the vast blessings God has laid out around us. I want to let God guide my path. I want him to tell me when to look down, and when to look ahead. And if I do stumble and fall, guess who will be there to catch me!

Psalm 199: 105

Peace,

Kelly

GPS

2011-10-08T06:53:00.000-07:00

Matthew 4:19

My husband is a minister and so from time to time (when I listen to his sermons :) I pick up something that I want to share. He spoke about our GPS (we named her Lois) and the benefits of having a device that could help us get to someplace we had never been before. I have come to rely on Lois which is both good and bad. I have used her many times to get to the right place, but have learned the hard way that I have to make sure that I plug in the right information. One little mistake in the address can send you to the wrong place! I have also "over used" her. For instances, I have been to this one particular place three times now, but I still use Lois to reassure me of where I'm going.
As Christians, we have our own GPS..you know what I'm going to say right? Yes God..He was around before Lois and unlike Lois, he will never take us to the wrong place, no matter what we do. We can try to make our own way, follow our own directions, or the directions of others. But He is always there saying, "recalculate", turn around..follow me"! He doesn't mind "over using Him". Sometimes we think we have all the answers and just need God as a safety net. But that's not what He wants. He wants us to stay plugged into him at all times. As long as we stay plugged into God, as long as we follow His directions, and as long as we fully rely on Him, we will end up in the right place every time. It just might take us a while to get there, but journey will be worth it!
On the road again.
Peace,
Kelly

Under Construction

2011-10-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

Ruth Graham was the wife of the Billy Graham, one of the most revered preachers of our time. I recently saw a documentary on their life and was so impressed with the way she loved the Lord as well as her family. Mr. Graham often said that his ministry wouldn't have been the same without her support. But she had a ministry of her own. She may not have been in front of thousands of people at a time calling them to Christ, but her words and actions were very powerful. Mrs. Graham has been gone for a few years now, but her vision lives on. I loved what she had inscribed on her grave, (no headstone, just a slab over her grave). She had the words written: "End of construction. Thank you for your patience." Wow! A woman who was chosen by one of most godly men on earth to be his wife felt like she was not complete until she died. I'm sure her motto before death was "Still under construction." She lived each day humbled, saying, "God is not done with me"! She sought Him everyday. She prayed for Him to build her up and mold her into a work of art.
I'm so glad that I am still under construction. I'm glad that I have the Master Builder working on me! But I will be even happier when I can see God face to face and say, "End of construction. Thank you for your patience."

Peace,
Kelly

Revival

2011-10-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

My church recently had a revival. Nothing new for many churches in our nation. 100s of church a year have revivals. They are promoted and anticipated for months. Sunday school classes cook wonderful meals and ladies in the church make the guest preachers feel welcome. But it is more than that. Is it more than just the dedicated of the church to attend and be seen. I have to admit that I have never been to a revival before. I am a Sunday morning Christian. I may do a little more on Christmas and Easter, and go on a youth trip now and then.. but going to church 3 nights in a row? Who wants to do that? But let me tell you it was one of the biggest blessing of my life. The first night I attended was out of obligation. Let’s admit it, I’m married to the preacher of the church, wouldn’t look good if I wasn’t there. The second night was out of curiosity , I heard something the night before that got my attention..made me think. And the third night? Well that was out of conviction. I was convicted to be revived, to be renewed, to be restored. Sometimes obligation leads to curiosity and curiosity leads to knowledge. Knowledge can lead to conviction. Our revival services are over and done with, but God’s true revival will never be done, until the last days. I hope to live not only in survival, but in revival as well. The later is the best!

Peace,

Kelly

2011-10-02T06:06:00.000-07:00

Serving

The tables were set, the glasses full of water, and the food cooked. Now all we needed were the guest. We bought the best we had, clean plates, shiny silverware, and spotless glasses. We even had fall decorations on the tables. We were ready! Then they came in. Just one or two at a time at first, and then groups of three and four. They were tired and hungry. Some of them still wearing the clothes they wore the day before. They sat down and we began to serve them a breakfast that Waffle House would be proud of. Some looked at us and said thank you the only way they knew how, with a soft smile. Others told us that this was the first time in a long time that they sat around a clean table and ate from “real” plates. By the end of the morning, we had fed over 60 men and women who had come to our town with the fair. Most looked tired and poor. Others just looked lost. We fed them that morning but they fed us as well. They allowed us to be His hands and feet. Who will you feed today? Who will you meet that is hungry and in need? Maybe your blessing will come when you serve others. Maybe you will be “fed” more than they. I know I was!

Peace,

Kelly

This Said It All

2011-09-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

1 Peter 4:8-11

New International Version (NIV)

⁸ Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

Peace,
Kelly

2011-09-27T14:52:00.000-07:00

In Need

Last night we had a wonderful revival service at our church. Brother Cliff said something that struck me. He made a comment that we should give to others out of our own needs. I began to think of what that really meant and the things that I really “needed”; acceptance, love, forgiveness. I began to realize that I was not the only one who needed these things. And so out of my needs, grew a simple conviction; I was going to give what I needed not just some of the time, but all of the time.

I need acceptance, therefore I will accept others. I need love, therefore I will love others, I need forgiveness, therefore I will forgive others. I need hope, therefore I will give hope to others. The list could go on and on. Do you think that God may have some of His own needs? Maybe not, but I do believe He has His own wants and desires. He desires for us to be close to Him so He is close to us. He desires for us to seek Him, so He seeks us. He desires for us to listen to Him, so He listens to us. He desires for us to love Him, so He loves us. If you are like me, you get your “wants” and your “needs” mixed up from time to time. Simple fact is, all we need is Jesus, and all He wants is us!

Peace,

Kelly

Let's Have A Talk

2011-09-26T06:05:00.000-07:00

Sunday I had the privilege of sitting in on a wonderful Sunday school class at our church. The topic was prayer and the lesson couldn’t have come at a better time for me. I must admit that I struggle with praying. We were all asked to pray for our upcoming revival for 30 minutes periods, and my time was late at night. The last thing I wanted to do was pray..besides God knew what I was going to say anyway. Why did I need to stop what I was doing, (or not doing like sleeping) and pray? Against my will I sat down feeling like I was doing something out of obligation and tried to focus at the task at hand. My heart was willing, but my mind was somewhere else. Then I had an idea. I like to write, why don’t I just write down what I was thinking. Part of my problem (and guilt) was the fact that really hadn’t prayed to God for a while. As our Sunday school teacher said, I was using God like a drive thru..expecting a fast order, and even faster service. It was time I “went inside” and savored my requests. So I began to write my letter to God. I wrote and wrote! I thanked Him, confessed to Him, told Him my needs and wants. Before I knew it my 30 minutes turned into several pages of conversation with an old friend. I realized through all of this that I was staying in touch with my children and husband better that I was staying in touch with God. I talk with my girls everyday and miss it so much when they don’t call. I should have that same desire and need to talk to God. There are so many ways for us to stay in touch these days. E-mail, cell phones, and yes the good old fashion way..letter writing. Next time you don’t know what to say to God or you think it is useless because he already knows, stop and find your special way to communicate with Him. He misses you like He missed me!

Peace,

Kelly

2011-09-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

His Will His Way

I heard this phrase today as I was flicking stations on the TV. A mindless act that I admit I do way too often. Anyway, the words struck me. His will, His way…I thought about the Lord’s Prayer. How many times have I recited the words “His kingdom come, His will be done”? A lot! And what does that really mean? His will be done? Well it hit me. It means what it says. His will, not mine. That’s a hard concept for a control freak like myself to accept. Do you mean to tell me that I have to give up my right to control my own life and turn it over to God? Wow. Can I really do that? Can you? WE can! We can let God take the burdens of everyday life off our shoulders and lay them on His. We can allow Him to do some of the worrying. All we have to do is trust. Trust His will, and let Him do it His way!

Peace,

Kelly

The Spoken Cross

2011-09-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

I was thinking of the upcoming Holiday season this morning..Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hard to believe that a new year will be here before we know it. Then a thought crossed my mind. Easter..I love Easter. I love it for the obvious reasons; the end of a cold winter and the beginning of Spring. There is nothing more exciting for me than to see the world come alive again with beautiful flowers and leaves. Then I couldn’t help but think of what it really should be about..the cross, the “Spoken Cross”

Over 2000 years ago God spoke to his people once again. It wasn’t through a flood, or the burning of a city, or even plagues of famine and death. It was at the cross. He sought us out, gave us another chance, and laid our sins on His son’s shoulders. He loved us so much that He allowed His son to pay for what man did then, and what man still continues to do. You know the old saying “actions speak louder than words”; well the silence of the cross spoke louder than all the cries of the angels in Heaven that day so long ago. It spoke of confusion, regret, and forgiveness. It spoke of starting over and second chances. It spoke of a love so great yet so misunderstood by some. And it spoke of coming to Him for eternal life. The cross spoke through the blood stained wood and rusted nails. It spoke through the crown of thorns and the sharpen spear. It spoke through the laughter, the ridicule and the tears. What are you saying today? What are you going to say tomorrow? What will you say when you see Christ for the first time? The cross spoke for us, now it is time for us to speak for ourselves. It is time to live each day as if it is a new Easter in our lives. I hope not to carry the image of the broken cross with me in my heart, but rather the spoken cross that shouted out to the world, “You are forgiven”. Speak loudly!

Peace,

Kelly

Accountability

2011-09-16T07:47:00.001-07:00

Well so much for this blog holding me accountable. I started it a few months ago in hopes that I would be more intent in having a quiet time and sharing my thoughts with others. But time and others things got in my way. I can say I had a busy few months with two weddings (including my own) and moving, but aren't we all busy? Of course, but what a relief that God is never too busy for us! As I was reading in Romans this morning, I realized that not only will others hold me accountable, but more importantly, God will hold me accountable for actions (or lack of them) and deeds. Romans 14:12-13 also made me stop and look at myself. Even though I depend on others, or things of this world to make me do "what is right", I shouldn't depend on others, or things of this world. Makes sense? Well I guess we can have it both ways. However I need to remember that while I can turn to others for encouragement, and accountability, the responsibility lies with me and me alone. Jesus used the fellowship of his disciples for comfort and companionship at times, but he didn't depend on them to help him have a personal relationship with His Father. That was his desire and need. I hope that I can begin, continue, and live a life of accountability before Him on my own and in the company of follow believers

Peace,
Kelly

Encouragement

2011-07-26T17:58:00.000-07:00

Let us encourage one another.

Hebrew 10:25

We all have so much going on in our lives each and everyday and it is easy to get caught up in our own "stuff". As I was reading in Hebrews this morning I realized that while I love to feel encouraged by others, I forget to return the favor. Who doesn't like to be encouraged, either through words of affirmation or approval. However we must also remember to encourage others. The act of encouragement can be as simple as a smile, or a pat on the shoulder. We may not always know what to say to someone, but we can work on how we act toward others. Remember, actions speak louder than words, and a little act of "encouragement" can go a long way.

Peace,

Kelly

Forgiveness

2011-07-24T06:34:00.000-07:00

For all have sinned; and fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet now God in his gracious kindness declares us not guilty. He has done this through Christ Jesus, who has freed us by taking away our sins." Romans 3: 23-24

Have you every had a hard time forgiving someone who has "wronged you"? Well if you are like me, you've had many hard times. Over the past several years I have struggled with forgiveness in many different areas of my life. I have also learned that forgiveness can come in different ways. We all know that forgiving ourselves can be the hardest thing to do. But what about truly forgiving others? Some of us have family members of friends that have hurt us in the past. While we think we may have made peace with a certain situation, we really haven't. The hurt and bitterness may pop back up at any time. True forgiveness means letting go of that hurt and bitterness forever! Easier said than done right? But in Romans 3, Peter goes on to say: "For God sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins and to satisfy God's anger against us. We are made right with God when we believe that Jesus shed his blood, sacrificing his life for us." Now that is forgiveness..with no strings attached! God doesn't grant us forgiveness if we live a perfect life and never sin again. He doesn't grant us forgiveness if we go to church every Sunday, or volunteer our time helping others. No, He grants us forgiveness through the sacrificing of his Son!! Jesus blood washed away any rules or conditions of truly being forgiven. If that has been done for us through God's mercy, then who are we not to truly forgive others as God forgave us. It can be a daily struggle for me sometimes not to think of the past hurts and guilt I have experienced. But I am challenged to live as God called me to live, with a heart full of compassion and forgiveness, not only for myself, but for others as well.

Peace,

Kelly

A New Thing

2011-07-22T18:34:00.000-07:00

"See, I am doing a new thing!"

Isaiah 43:19

Today it really hit me! My little girl is getting married in a week! We spent the day together trying to get some last minute things done before the big day. It seems like we have waited for this day to come for so long, and now it is only a week away. Needless to say things will change in our lives. It makes me sad at times to think of her "leaving" me, but I am so grateful that God brought a wonderful man into her life to support her and take care of her. God is "doing a new thing!" He works in our lives everyday. A new thing could be a marriage, a divorce, an illness, loss of a job, anything that takes us out of our comfort zone. But what a comfort to know that He is there ALL THE TIME! Let God do a new thing in your life, each and everyday!

Peace,

Kelly

Sunny Days

2011-07-21T06:50:00.000-07:00

Let my teaching fall like rain
and my words descend like dew,
like showers on new grass,
like abundant rain on tender plants.

I will proclaim the name of the LORD.
Oh, praise the greatness of our God!

Deuteronomy 32:1-3

I woke up today to sunny skies. It had been awhile. We sure did need the rain, but to be honest I was getting tired of it. I did feel guilty about complaining, knowing how much the farmers needed it for their crops, but of course my selfish human nature kicked in. In Deuteronomy 32:1-3, God speaks of His words falling down on us like showers on new grass. When I read that this morning I couldn't help but think that we not only need the rain sometimes to water crops and clean things up a bit, but we also need it to make us slow down. I was forced to stay inside during the recent "downpours", and instead of thinking of all the errands I couldn't or didn't want to do in the rain, I should have been thinking of taking this opportunity to stop and listen. Not only listen to the rain falling all around, but listen to God's words: "let my teaching fall like rain". So next time it rains, I'm going to embrace it just like God embraces us each and every day!

Peace,

Kelly

Fellowship

2011-07-20T08:11:00.000-07:00

1 John 1:7 " But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin."

How comforting to know that through Jesus' blood we can be in complete fellowship with one another. He gave us the freedom to choose and to live a new life in Him.

There are so many times of "darkness" in our lives: Illness, death, divorce, financial problems. But we can find comfort in knowing that Christ provides light for us even in the darkest times. We just have to open our eyes.

Peace,
Kelly

Welcome to my New Blog

2011-07-20T06:57:00.001-07:00

Well this is all kinda of new to me! I must admit that I am not a "Blogger" by trade, but did have a page when I was a teacher. My name is Kelly Harrison (soon to be Spining) and you may not know me from Adam! But I felt led to start this blog "Daily Following Him" or DFH for short. I'm not sure what the blog will consist of yet, I hope to make posts full of inspiration and insight to things that speak to me. This blog is really more for me than anyone else. I really want to start a daily (needs to be hourly) relationship with my Lord, but I let so many things get in the way. Maybe you are the same way. I feel that this blog will hold me accountable in a way to read more, and seek things out that will not only inspire myself, but others as well.
I look forward to starting this journey!
Peace,
Kelly