Don't

-Don't determine your worth by comparing yourself with others. It is because we are different that each of us is special.

-Don't set your goals by what others deem important. Only you know what is best for you.

-Don't take for granted the things closest to your heart; cling to them as you would your life, for without them life is meaningless.

-Don't let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past or for the future.

-Don't give up when you still have something to give. By living your life one day at a time you will live all the days of your life blessed because of your determination.

-Don't think it's over because you fail. Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying.

-Don't be afraid to admit that you are less than perfect. It is this fragile thread that binds us to each other.

-Don't be afraid to encounter risks. It's by taking chances we learn how to be brave.

-Don't shut love out of your life by saying it's impossible to find. The quickest way to receive love is to give love, the fastest way to lose love is to hold it too tightly, and the best way to keep love is to give it wings.

-Don't dismiss your dreams. To be without dreams is to be without hope and to be without hope is to be without purpose.

-Don't run through life so fast that you forget not only where you've been, but also where you're going.

-Don't ever forget-life isn't a race, but it's a journey. Enjoy the ride!

Let It Go

My granddaughter recently posted a video on Facebook of my 2 year old grandson singing the popular song, "Let It Go", from the Disney movie Frozen. As I watched the heartfelt attempt at singing, I couldn't understand all of the words, but the passion was there. Any grandfather would say watching that performance, "There's the next American Idol!" He is growing up so fast and is the joy along with his two sisters and brother of our lives. But out of the mouths of babes come answers we sometimes need to hear.

Let it go. Sometimes it's hard to let go, but as we grow in Jesus we have to learn to do so. Recently I have really had to work at letting go of some hurt that I experienced because someone lied to me and the results jolted me to the core. When someone hurts you like that it's hard to let go, especially when the outcome affects your livelihood and future. You make a decision on what you feel is God's will, yet sometimes other factors put you outside of it. I've learned from this situation that when others think it's a good thing based on what the're told you better look before you leap. Because friend, if it sounds to good to be true, it usually is, and before you know it you become a victim rather than a victor and bitterness grabs ahold of you.

Ephesian 4:31 says, "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:"

Bitterness is like a cancer. It will eat you up piece by piece. It makes you feel betrayed, worthless, unappreciated, anti-social, and all alone. It steals your joy, your peace, your hope, and it clouds your future. You don't trust anyone, turn your back on your friends, even sometimes get angry with God because He let you go thru what you went thru. Yet Paul said simply, "Let it go."

What my little grandson sang made me realize that too many of us are holding on to things that hurt us with bitterness being the chieftain of them all. For us to progress bitterness must be cast out of our lives. Pardon me, but from a veteran soldier of the cross, it's easier said than done; but if Paul could do it so can I and so can you. The only words I could really understand my grandson sing were the words, "Let it go!" Paul was beaten, shipwrecked, hungry, thirsty, imprisoned, and left for dead. He was lied about, talked about, and even had some seek his life. Yet he "let it go" every time, brushed off the dust, and kept on keeping on.

Don't let bitterness weigh you down or steal your joy-let it go!

I Wish For You

The late great Radio and TV personality Paul Harvey shared this on one of his broadcasts a number of years ago. It still means a lot today so read it carefully.

We tried so hard to make things better for our kids that we made them worse.

For my grandchildren, I'd like better. I'd really like for them to know about hand-me down clothes and homemade ice cream and leftover meatloaf sandwiches. I really would.

My cherished grandson, I hope you learn humility by being humiliated, and that you learn honesty by being cheated. I hope you learn to make your bed and mow the lawn and wash the car. And I really hope nobody gives you a brand new car when you are sixteen. I hope you have a job by then. It will be good if at least one time you can see a baby calf born and your old dog put to sleep.

I hope you get a black eye fighting for something you believe in. I hope you have to share a bedroom with your younger brother. And it's all right if you have to draw a line down the middle of the room, but when he wants to crawl under the covers with you because he's scared, I hope you let him.

When you want to see a Disney movie and your little brother wants to tag along, I hope you'll let him.

I hope you have to walk uphill to school with your friends and that you live in a town where you can do it safely.

On rainy days when you have to catch a ride I hope your driver doesn't have to drop you two blocks away so you won't be seen riding with someone as uncool as your mom.

If you want a slingshot, I hope your dad teaches you how to make one instead of buying one. I hope you learn to dig in the dirt and read books. When you learn to use those newfangled computers, I hope you also learn to add and subtract in your head.

I hope you get razzed by your friends when you have your first crush on a girl, and when you talk back to your mother that you learn what Ivory soap tastes like.

May you skin your knee climbing a mountain, burn you hand on stove and stick your tongue on a frozen flagpole. I hope you get sick when someone blows cigar smoke in your face. I don't care if you try beer once, but I hope you don't like it. And if a friend offers you dope or a joint, I hope you realize he is not your friend.

I sure hope you make time to sit on a porch with your grandpa and play games with grandma.

May you feel sorrow at a funeral and the joy of holidays. I hope your mother punishes you when you throw a baseball through a neighbor's window and that she hugs you and kisses you at Christmas time when you give her a plaster of Paris mold of your hand.

These things I wish for you -- tough times and disappointment, hard work and happiness.

Listen

Proverbs 1:5 "A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:"

The most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention, especially if it's given from the heart. When people are talking there's no need to do anything but receive them. Just take them in, listen to what they're saying, and care about it. Most times caring about it is even more important than understanding it. Most of us don't value ourselves or our love enough to know this. God has allowed me to go thru some great physical trials to believe in the power of simply saying, "I'm so sorry," when someone is in pain and meaning it.

One of my members told me that when she tried to tell her story people often interrupted to tell her that they once had something just like that happen to them. Sadly her pain became a story about themselves. Eventually she stopped talking to most people. It was just too lonely. We connect through listening. When we interrupt what someone is saying to let them know that we understand, we move the focus of attention to ourselves. When we listen, they know we care. Many people with sickness just talk about the relief of having someone listen to them share what they are going thru.

I have even learned to respond to someone crying by just listening. In the old days I used to reach for the tissues, until I realized that passing a person a tissue may be just another way to shut them down, to take them out of their experience of sadness and grief. Now I just listen. When they have cried all they need to cry, they find me there with them.

This simple thing has not been that easy to learn. It certainly went against everything I had been taught since I was very young. I thought people listened only because they were too timid to speak or did not know the answer. A loving silence often has far more power to heal and to connect than the most well intentioned words.

James 1:19 "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:"

Your Greatest Present

One of the greatest presents you can give yourself and your loved ones is to be present every chance you get.  Your life is not between the moments of your birth and death, but your life is between now and your next breath.  Distractions are everywhere these days, but we need to remember to look up more often and praise God for what He has given us.  So much is lost when we don’t. Time is too precious to let slip away

People who love themselves come across as very caring, generous and kind to others too. They express their self-confidence through humility, forgiveness and inclusiveness.  So seek to understand others before you attempt to judge.  Be thankful for rude, difficult people too because they serve as great reminders of how not to live. Almost everything comes full circle so be careful of how you live before others.

You won’t always get what you want in life. Nor will you always be exactly where you want to be.  But remember this: There are lots of people who will never have what you have right now.  So use pain, frustration and inconvenience to motivate you rather than annoy you.  You are in control of the way you look at life so take advantage of it and do the best you can. God will reward you for it.

You're Not Stuck

We are products of our past, but we don’t have to be prisoners of it.  When you stop learning you stop living a meaningful life.  Life’s richness does not come from always residing within familiar and comfortable territory.  It’s when you venture out away from the familiar that you grow stronger and more capable.

You must hold tightly to your core values while at the same time opening your heart and mind to new ideas, feelings and experiences.  Your own perspective will become clearer when you look at things from different angles.  Find ways to provide a healthy challenge to your current understanding of life, and you will discover and experience far more of life’s magic in the days ahead.

Before you can truly LIVE today, a part of you has to die first.  You have to let go and bury what could have been, how you should have responded and what you wish you would have done differently.  You have to accept that you can’t change a past experience, opinions of others at that moment in time, or outcomes from their choices or yours.  When you finally accept this truth, then you will finally understand the true meaning of forgiving yourself and others.  From this point you will finally be present and free.

Go ahead!  Let go.  Forgive.  Be present and free.  As long as you are breathing, you are just beginning.  NOW is a new beginning.  Don’t pretend like you’re stuck.  You aren't.

Honor Our Vietnam Nam Veterans

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release 

May 25, 2012 

Presidential Proclamation -- Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War

COMMEMORATION OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE VIETNAM WAR

- - - - - - -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

As we observe the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, we reflect with solemn reverence upon the valor of a generation that served with honor. We pay tribute to the more than 3 million servicemen and women who left their families to serve bravely, a world away from everything they knew and everyone they loved. From Ia Drang to Khe Sanh, from Hue to Saigon and countless villages in between, they pushed through jungles and rice paddies, heat and monsoon, fighting heroically to protect the ideals we hold dear as Americans. Through more than a decade of combat, over air, land, and sea, these proud Americans upheld the highest traditions of our Armed Forces.

As a grateful Nation, we honor more than 58,000 patriots --their names etched in black granite -- who sacrificed all they had and all they would ever know. We draw inspiration from the heroes who suffered unspeakably as prisoners of war, yet who returned home with their heads held high. We pledge to keep faith with those who were wounded and still carry the scars of war, seen and unseen. With more than 1,600 of our service members still among the missing, we pledge as a Nation to do everything in our power to bring these patriots home. In the reflection of The Wall, we see the military family members and veterans who carry a pain that may never fade. May they find peace in knowing their loved ones endure, not only in medals and memories, but in the hearts of all Americans, who are forever grateful for their service, valor, and sacrifice.

In recognition of a chapter in our Nation's history that must never be forgotten, let us renew our sacred commitment to those who answered our country's call in Vietnam and those who awaited their safe return. Beginning on Memorial Day 2012, the Federal Government will partner with local governments, private organizations, and communities across America to participate in the Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War -- a 13-year program to honor and give thanks to a generation of proud Americans who saw our country through one of the most challenging missions we have ever faced. While no words will ever be fully worthy of their service, nor any honor truly befitting their sacrifice, let us remember that it is never too late to pay tribute to the men and women who answered the call of duty with courage and valor. Let us renew our commitment to the fullest possible accounting for those who have not returned.

Throughout this Commemoration, let us strive to live up to their example by showing our Vietnam veterans, their families, and all who have served the fullest respect and support of a grateful Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 28, 2012, through November 11, 2025, as the Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War. I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to honor our Vietnam veterans, our fallen, our wounded, those unaccounted for, our former prisoners of war, their families, and all who served with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.

BARACK OBAMA

Memorial Day

Before packing up the grill, beach towels, and bathing suits for an eventful Memorial Day weekend, we should all take a little time to remember what it is exactly we are celebrating. Dating back to the American Civil War when it was known as “Decoration Day,” the practice of placing flowers on the graves of fallen soldiers is not only done in remembrance of the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces, but also to honor the freedom in which they upheld. To help celebrate the true meaning behind Memorial Day and commend the people who gave their lives to ensure all of our right to freedom, here are 22 memorable quotes from some of the most inspirational minds in American history:

1. “I don't have to tell you how fragile this precious gift of freedom is. Every time we hear, watch, or read the news, we are reminded that liberty is a rare commodity in this world.” – President Ronald Reagan

2. "A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.” – President Dwight D. Eisenhower

3. “It doesn’t take a hero to order men into battle. It takes a hero to be one of those men who goes into battle.” – General Norman Schwarzkopf Jr.

4. “There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured with what is right in America.” – President Bill Clinton

5. "How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!" – Maya Angelou

6. “It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.” — General George S. Patton

7. "The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.” – President Thomas Jefferson

8. “Decoration Day is the most beautiful of our national holidays ... The grim cannon have turned into palm branches, and the shell and shrapnel into peach blossoms.”  – Thomas Bailey Aldrich

9. “Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.” – Mark Twain

10. "Our nation owes a debt to its fallen heroes that we can never fully repay, but we can honor their sacrifice." – President Barack Obama

11. “On thy grave the rain shall fall from the eyes of a mighty nation!” – Thomas William Parsons

12. "In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved." – President Franklin D. Roosevelt

13. "Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty." – President John F. Kennedy

14. “Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism.” – President George Washington

15. “And they who for their country die shall fill an honored grave, for glory lights the soldier’s tomb, and beauty weeps the brave.” – Joseph Rodman Drake

16. “We come, not to mourn our dead soldiers, but to praise them.” – Francis A. Walker

17. “Heroism is not only in the man, but in the occasion.” – President Calvin Coolidge

18. “Although no sculptured marble should rise to their memory, nor engraved stone bear record of their deeds, yet will their remembrance be as lasting as the land they honored.” – Daniel Webster

19. “They hover as a cloud of witnesses above this Nation.” – Henry Ward Beecher

20. “The brave die never, though they sleep in dust: Their courage nerves a thousand living men.” – Minot J. Savage

21. “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.” – President Harry S. Truman

22. "For love of country, they accepted death.” – President James A. Garfield

A Picture

I have a new favorite picture. It was taken on Memorial Day weekend at a family reunion. They say that, "A picture is worth a thousand words." Well this one is worth a thousand books. I look at it whenever I need a reminder of what life is all about. 

In the background is a family graveyard with fresh flowers placed everywhere. The sun is shining through the trees and glistening off the stones with a glorious light. In the front of the picture in the shade of the trees is my daughter. She is holding her 2 year old cousin in her arms and gently kissing her on the cheek. This single picture holds so much. There is beautiful nature, flowers, sunshine, and trees. There is life, death, remembrance, and the promise of an even greater life after this one. There is renewal, youth, and growing up. There is hugs, kisses, joy, and laughter. There is family, caring, and sharing. There is wonderful togetherness. There is light, shadow, happiness and sadness. Most of all, though, there is love. There is love for those who have passed and for those who remain. There is love for life and love for each other. There is also our love for God and God’s love for us. I can’t help but feel that Heaven must have been smiling down when this picture was taken. It was one of those glorious moments of love that God meant for us to live. 

Life is a series of pictures. It is moments of love chosen and cherished. It is wonderful memories created and enjoyed. It is instances when we share laughter, bring joy, offer kindness, give goodness, and deliver delight from our hearts and souls. It is times when we think, learn, pray, and grow. It is seconds when we finally begin to realize what we are truly here for and what life is really about. May all of your pictures be happy ones then. May they all be taken with love. And may you always feel Heaven smiling down upon them.

Joseph Mazella

Be Thankful

Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire.
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don't know something.
For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations.
Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge.
Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes.
They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you're tired and weary.
It means you've made a difference.

It's easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks.

Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles and they can become your blessings.

Welcome Home

 

This story was shared by a Viet Nam Veteran who desires to be anonymous. I wanted to share the story because this weekend we need to honor those men and women who have served our nation.

The other day I was walking into the local Wal-Mart store when I noticed an older man walking beside a younger man.  The younger man was wearing army fatigues.

I was curious so I stopped and asked, "Excuse me young man, but I was just wondering if you were in the service or are you just wearing fatigues?"

The young man stated that he was really in the army and then his Dad added in a strong voice that was filled with pride, "This is my son and he has just returned from his second tour in Iraq."

I told him how glad I was that he had returned home safely and then I said, "Young man, I would like to do something for you that no one outside of my family did for me when I returned home from serving in Viet Nam."

"What is that?" he asked.

"I'd be proud to welcome you home by shaking your hand if I might and say thank you for your service to our country," I said as I held out my hand.

The young soldier and his Dad both stood a little taller as the young man stuck out his hand which I readily grasped and we just stood there, the three of us, with our right hands joined.  We were three strangers drawn together by a common bond, we all understood, not needing to say anything more.

After nodding to each other, I started to break the grasp and walk away but the young soldier seemed to have something on his mind as he hesitated, and then he stopped me before I could move.  He was quiet for a moment and then he looked me straight in the eye and then he ever so clearly uttered the words, "Thank you. . . and . . . Welcome Home".

We then parted company as we went our separate ways.  I finished buying the supplies I needed, walked on home, and oh yeah - I cried.

(Anonymous Viet Nam Veteran)

We often forget to be thankful to those who serve our country, protect us from terrorism, and preserve our freedom.  We have veterans living today that have served us in WWII, Korea, Viet Nam, and The Persian Gulf.  We have those on active duty who are serving our country right now in Iraq as well as other places around the world.

We have less than 1 million WW II Veterans alive today; we are quickly losing them from the battlefield of life.  They are now leaving us at the rate of 555 per day.  Those that have survive tell me the veteran's organizations need more veterans to help them with carrying flags and marches at their comrades funerals.  This is due to the failing health and the deaths of most of the WWII veterans who have kept these organizations alive with their unswerving dedication and patriotism.  Perhaps it's time we expressed appreciation with a card or a phone call to someone we know personally while there's still time.  It shouldn't have to be Memorial Day or Veteran's Day for us to be appreciative toward all of our veterans no matter where they served.  The point is that they served and gave of themselves that we might live in freedom.

We can also show our appreciation to those serving us right now by writing letters, sending e-mails, or sending packages to our soldiers.  Today is a good day to be grateful, there's no time like the present and it's the only time that we have for certain.  When we see or hear of a soldier coming home from war, most important of all, let's remember to give them a heartfelt, "Thank you and Welcome Home!"

God Is...

God is truly in control. 

If God is God, then nothing happens apart from His knowledge and permission. While it is difficult to imagine why God allows some painful things to happen, His character, revealed in the Bible and through the testing of generations, leads us to the conclusion that He is willing and able to sustain you during the worst of times. 

 2 Corinthians 1:8, 9  "We were crushed and completely overwhelmed, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we learned not to rely on ourselves, but on God who can raise the dead."

Remember, your story isn't finished yet. Time after time, the Bible records hopeless situations that ultimately ended in victory. Think of Job's sickness, Joseph's betrayal by his brothers, David's adultery and the many who were healed in mind, body and spirit. Defeat led each of them to victory. Sometimes you go thru the valley to get to the mountain but just keep going. God is in control and He will somehow pull you through.

Genesis 50:19, 20  "But Joseph told them, 'Don't be afraid of me. Am I God, to judge and punish you? As far as I am concerned, God turned into good what you meant for evil. He brought me to the high position I have today so I could save the lives of many people.'" 

Things You Learn In Ministry

These are lessons I’ve learned in 43 years of ministry

-When Jesus paused while dying on the cross to make certain his mother was cared for, he showed how to prioritize family amidst ministry.

-Sermons can inspire but it is love in action that makes the most profound impact.

-The goal is not to win a debate but to redeem the heart.

-One’s public witness is only as authentic as one’s private integrity.

-There is no greater source of wisdom than the Bible and no investment that yields greater returns than prayer.

-Hate is only validated when one responds in like spirit.

-Jesus should never be presented as less than he claimed to be: the way, the truth and the life.

-One should live first and foremost so as to please a heavenly audience.

-One’s legacy is found not in things that matter least but in people who matter most.

-The generation into which I am born is my calling and it beckons me to be fully engaged.

As I look to the next generation of ministers I am keenly aware that they will seek to touch a world that is increasingly distracted. Absolutes will be challenged as those who oppose Biblical precepts become more organized and vocal. Their strength will be in presenting not religion but a relationship with Jesus Christ. My prayer for them is to press on. The journey is hard but it will be worth it in the end.

To the generation of ministers who have served before me I owe a debt of gratitude. To my peers thanks and to those coming behind us preach on.

 

Make Sure The Devil Takes His Bags

1. You got out of a bad relationship because it was bad, but you are still resentful, and angry.
   (you let the devil leave his bags) 
   
   
2. You got out of financial debt, but you still can't control the desire to spend on frivolous things.
   (you let the devil leave his bags) 
   
   
3. You got out of a bad habit or addiction, but you still long to try it just one more time.
   (you let the devil leave his bags) 
   
   
4. You said, I forgive you, but you can't seem to let it go and have peace with that person.
   (you let the devil leave his bags) 
   
   
5. You got out of that horribly oppressive job, but you're still trying to sabotage the company after you've left.
   (you let the devil leave his bags) 
   
   
6. You cut off the affair with that married man/woman, but you still lust after him/her.
   (you let the devil leave his bags) 
   
   
7. You broke off your relationship with that hurtful, abusive person, but you are suspicious and distrusting of every new person you meet.
   (you let the devil leave his bags) 
   
   
8. You decided to let go of the past hurts from growing up in an unstable family environment, yet you believe you are unworthy of love from others and you refuse to get attached to anyone.
   (you let the devil leave his bags)

WHEN YOU PUT THE DEVIL OUT, MAKE SURE HE TAKES HIS BAGS, TOO!

When God Closes Doors

We need to learn to praise the Lord as much for a closed door as we do an open door. The reason God closes doors is because He has not prepared anything over there for us. If he didn't close the wrong door, we would never find the right door. 

God directs our path through the closing and opening of doors. Once a door closes, it forces you to change your course. Another door closes, it forces you to change your course again. Then, finally, you find the open door and you walk right into your blessing. 

The Lord directs our paths through the opening and closing of doors, but instead of praising him for the closed door (which keeps us out of trouble); we get upset because we "judge by the appearances." 

You have an ever-present help in the time of trouble that is always standing guard. Because He walks ahead of you, He can spot trouble down the road and set up a roadblock or detour accordingly. But through our lack of wisdom, we try to tear down the roadblocks or push aside the detour sign. Then the minute we get into trouble, we start crying, "Lord, how could You have done this to me?" 

We have got to realize that the closed door can be a blessing. Didn't He say that no good thing would He withhold from them that love Him? 

If you get terminated from your job, praise God for the new opportunities that will manifest themselves: it might be another job, it might be school. 

If that man or woman won't return your call, it might not be them, it might be the Lord setting up a roadblock (just let it go). 

One time, a person had a bank they had been in business with for many years tell them "No!" to a $10,000 loan. The Lord put in their spirit to call another bank. That bank gave them $40,000 at a lower interest rate than the first bank was offering. 

We can sometimes trap ourselves in doubt and discouragement through judging by appearances. Be grateful for the many times our Father has closed doors to us just to open them in the most unexpected places. 

The Lord won't always say in spoken words: "Go to the left, now to the right" ...sometimes He will just close the doors that are wrong for you. 

Heart Prints

We leave fingerprints on whatever our hands touch. Whether on walls, furniture, doorknobs, dishes, books, or whatever, as we touch them we leave our identity. Those finger prints are unique and unmatchable. Unless you wear gloves, somebody will know you've been there. It thrills my heart so when my two year old grandson comes to visit and I see his little hand prints on the glass in the storm door. There's no denying it. He been there because his hand prints identify him.

Let your prayer be today that where ever you go that God will help you leave heart prints. Heart prints are born out of compassion, understanding, and love. Heart prints are birthed out of kindness and  show our genuine concern. Heart prints identify you as a child of God and the goodness you share today is testament to what the Lord has done in your life.

Let your heart touch a lonely neighbor, or a stranger, an anxious mother, or perhaps a dear friend who feels lost and alone. Just go out today with a desire to leave your heart prints, and expect someone to say, "I felt your heart!" And when they do the opportunity to tell them about Jesus is available. You touch people with you heart more so than your words. No godly deed goes unnoticed because the Father is keeping a record. Be a blessing today and be blessed as well.
 
Luke 6:35 "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh."

You Will Never Be Sorry

You Will Never Be Sorry . . .
-for thinking before acting.
-for hearing before judging.
-for forgiving your enemies.
-for being candid and frank.
-for helping a fallen brother.
-for being honest in business.
-for thinking before speaking.
-for being loyal to your church.
-for standing by your principles.
-for closing your ears to gossip.
-for bridling a slanderous tongue.
-for harboring pure thoughts.
-for sympathizing with the afflicted.
-for being courteous and kind to all.

Do You Know A Hero?

Hebrews 11:33-38 "Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions. Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:  And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth."

Do you know a hero? I am not asking you to simply name a favorite celebrity. There is a difference.

Do you know a hero? I think perhaps you do. Heroes, you see, can be found in some of the most unexpected places.

-How about that young mother who is slowly dying of cancer, yet she puts aside her pain long enough every day to smile and laugh with her children. She tries hard every day to bring sunshine into the gloomy hospital room where her family is present.

-How about that husband who fills the role of single parent and financial provider, and still spends every remaining moment sitting at his ailing wife's bedside, valiantly encouraging and offering whatever hope he could muster.

-How about that teacher who could have worked at a far more lucrative profession, yet was determined to stay in a disadvantaged school in the hope that she could make a difference in a difficult situation. She does it for her students every semester.

I know other heroes, too.

Many of the world's true heroes will never be confused with action figures. Most have never been to battle, competed athletically nor sung in a pop band. But they have faced nearly impossible challenges with unimaginable determination and courage. They found what it takes to bear the unbearable, forgive the unforgivable, love the unlovable, outlast the unendurable or defeat the undefeatable. And often they do it for the sake of others.

Do you know a hero? Maybe one lives in your home. And perhaps one even looks back at you from the mirror. For it is in everyday battles of the spirit that true wars are fought and won. And it is those real-life heroes who give the rest of us hope and remind us that anything is possible.

Do you know a hero? I think you do.

A Personal Letter From God

My child:
Effective immediately, please be aware that there are changes you need to make in your life. These changes need to be completed in order that I may fulfill My promises to you to grant you peace, joy and happiness in this life. I apologize for any inconvenience, but after all that I am doing, this seems very little to ask of you. I know, I already gave you the 10 Commandments. Keep them. But follow these guidelines, also:

1. QUIT WORRYING
   Life has dealt you a blow and all you do is sit and worry. Have you forgotten that I am here to take all your burdens and carry them for you? Or do you just enjoy fretting over every little thing that comes along?
   
2. PUT IT ON THE LIST
   Something needs to be done or taken care of. Put it on the list. No, not YOUR list. Put it on MY to-do-list. Let ME be the one to take care of the problem. I can't help you until you turn it over to Me. And although My to-do-list is long, I am after all... God. I can take care of anything you put into My hands. In fact, if the truth were ever really known, I take care of a lot of things for you that you never even realize.
   
3. TRUST ME
   Once you've given your burdens to Me, quit trying to take them back. Trust in Me. Have the faith that I will take care of all your needs. YOUR problems and your trials. Problems with the kids? Put them on My list. Problem with finances? Put it on My list. Problems with your emotional roller coaster? For My sake, put it on My list. I want to help you. All you have to do is ask.
   
4. LEAVE IT ALONE
   Don't wake up one morning and say, "Well, I'm feeling much stronger now, I think I can handle it from here." Why do you think you are feeling stronger now? It's simple. You gave Me your burdens and I'm taking care of them. I also renew your strength and cover you in my peace. Don't you know that if I give you these problems back, you will be right back where you started? Leave them with Me and forget about them. Just let Me do my job.
   
5. TALK TO ME
   I want you to forget a lot of things. Forget what was making you crazy. Forget the worry and the fretting because you know I'm in control. But there's one thing I pray you never forget. Please, don't forget to talk to Me - OFTEN! I love YOU! I want to hear your voice. I want you to include Me in on the things going on in your life. I want to hear you talk about your friends and family. Prayer is simply you having a conversation with Me. I want to be your dearest friend.
   
6. HAVE FAITH
   I see a lot of things from up here that you can't see from where you are. Have faith in Me that I know what I'm doing. Trust Me; you wouldn't want the view from My eyes. I will continue to care for you, watch over you, and meet your needs. You only have to trust Me. Although I have a much bigger task than you, it seems as if you have so much trouble just doing your simple part. How hard can trust be?
   
7. SHARE
   You were taught to share when you were only two years old. When did you forget? That rule still applies. Share with those who are less fortunate than you. Share your joy with those who need encouragement. Share your laughter with those who haven't heard any in such a long time. Share your tears with those who have forgotten how to cry. Share your faith with those who have none.
   
8. BE PATIENT
   I managed to fix it so in just one lifetime you could have so many diverse experiences. You grow from a child to an adult, have children, change jobs many times, learn many trades, travel to so many places, meet thousands of people, and experience so much. How can you be so impatient then when it takes Me a little longer than you expect to handle something on My to-do-list? Trust in My timing, for My timing is perfect. Just because I created the entire universe in only six days, everyone thinks I should always rush, rush, rush.
   
9. BE KIND
   Be kind to others, for I love them just as much as I love you. They may not dress like you, or talk like you, or live the same way you do, but I still love you all. Please try to get along, for My sake. I created each of you different in some way. It would be too boring if you were all identical. Please, know I love each of your differences.
   
10. LOVE YOURSELF
    As much as I love you, how can you not love yourself? You were created by me for one reason only -- to be loved, and to love in return. I am a God of Love. Love Me. Love your neighbors. But also love yourself. It makes My heart ache when I see you so angry with yourself when things go wrong. You are very precious to Me. Don't ever forget that! With all my heart, I love YOU!
    
    GOD

Your Greatest Treasure

It takes a lot of understanding, time and trust to gain a close friendship with someone. As I approach a time in my life of complete uncertainty, my family is my most precious asset.

I had a church member who felt that way. I sat next to his nursing home bed in Union, SC and thought about the fact that I had known him for over twelve  years. He  knew he was slowly dying and that these next few days would be his last. I held his hand as we talked at length.

We spent time reminiscing about his long and faithful voyage as a church member, father, and husband. We talked about familiar friends. We chatted about his wife who passed on several years before him. And I listened as he offered pieces of wisdom from an older generation that he felt needed to be passed on to my generation.

He seemed to carefully consider what he was about to say next. Then he squeezed my hand, gazed intently into my eyes and whispered, just loud enough for me to hear, "Pastor, nothing is more important than your family relationship."

I knew that this sentence somehow mattered a great deal to him. He seemed to consider a lifetime of experiences and this one simple observation surfaced above the rest: "Pastor, nothing is more important than  your family relationship."

"Don't get so caught up in your ministry," he said. "that you forget the people you love and the ones who love you back. No church, no program, or no task  is more important than your family. Keep Jesus first, but make sure you love you family as much as you can while you have the chance."

Remember," he repeated, "only your relationship with them will matter in the end. Tend to them well."

Writer Og Mandino put it this way: "Beginning today," he said, "treat everyone you meet as if he or she were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all the care, kindness and understanding you can muster, and do so with no thought of any reward. Your life will never be the same again."

In Galatians 5 an 6 Paul wrote:
Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
²⁶ That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
²⁷ That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
²⁸ So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.
²⁹ For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
³⁰ For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
³¹ For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
³² This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
³³ Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
² Honor thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;
³ That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
⁴ And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Amen. Amen. Amen.

Anyway

People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered-but forgive them anyway.

If you are kind,people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives-but be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and make some true enemies-but succeed anyway.

If you are honest people may cheat you-but be honest anyway.

What you spend years building someone could destroy overnight-but build anyway.

If you find peace and happiness they may be jealous-but be happy anyway.

The good you do today people will often forget tomorrow-but do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough-but give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see in the final analysis it was between you and God. It never was between you and them anyway

Happy Mother's Day

The following answers were given by young children to these questions:

1. Why did God make mothers? Think about it, it was the best way to get more people. 
   
   
2. How did God make mothers? He made my Mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts. 
   
   
3. Why did God give you your mother and not some other Mom? God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's moms like me. 
   
   
4. What kind of little girl was your Mom? My Mom has always been my Mom and none of that other stuff. 
   
   
5. How did your Mom meet your dad? Mom was working in a store and dad was shoplifting. 
   
   
6. What did Mom need to know about dad before she married him? His last name. 
   
   
7. Why did your Mom marry your dad? She got too old to do anything else with him. 
   
   
8. What's the difference between moms and grandmas? About 30 years. 
   
   
9. Describe the world's greatest Mom: She'd always be smiling and keep her opinions to herself. 
   
   
10. Is anything about your Mom perfect? Just her children 
    
    
11. What would it take to make your Mom perfect? On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.

The Cory Hyde Story-I'll Be Turning 40 Soon

A must read for women that didn't get to have their own baby. Cory Hyde thought she would never receive a Mother's Day card. But she got herself a special job and now has some treasures she will keep for a lifetime. Hopefully, you'll benifit from her experience and enjoy her perspective in this Gem of a story.

I'll be turning 40 soon!

I am so excited by this prospect that I'm planning this big theme party! The theme will be "I've never....".

While explaining this to a friend of mine, I laughingly gave the example of "I've never had a baby shower, so someone would have to bring a baby gift. Then I'll donate it to the nursery at the church." I was smiling through this little explanation, until I saw the look on her face.

With tears in her eyes she said, "That's so sad"!

Well, there was a time when I felt that way too. Finding out in my 20's that I couldn't have children was devastating. I immediately left the child care field and went to work building cables for the B-1 Bomber! The physical, repetitive labor was very good for me. Towards the end of the three years, I found that I was just borrowing my co-workers' children to do things with.

My first and only love was the children. I had a lot of time to think about all of the things I had been cheated out of. I would never hold a new born baby in my arms. I would never rock my baby to sleep. I would never get to sing lullabyes. I would never get to watch my child leave for their first day of school. I would never get to be the tooth fairy! I would never get to talk about boys, or proms, or pimples! Yes, I felt that I was going to get cheated out of a lot. I would never get a Mother's Day Card!

I'm not sure when it all changed.

I don't think there was one specific moment when I realized that I had more children than any mother could possibly ever have! And, that's the answer I gave to my friend.

Smiling, I explained that as long as I work in the nursery, I will have babies to rock and sing to. As long as I am a Head Start teacher, I will have first days of school. Working with the youth will give me plenty of experience with teenagers.

Carissa lost her first tooth at my house and no one was ever a better Tooth Fairy. I hosted an exchange student from Germany last year and got to shop for prom dresses. I even cried when she gave me a locket with her picture in it, engraved with one simple word on the front, "Mom".

I still have it and wear it, and I also have the Mother's Day card she gave me. All treasures.

My babies are now growing up and having babies. Soon I'll get to have "Nana" experiences. It doesn't matter that we don't share the same genes. What we do share is a lot of love.

Truth is, I'm having a hard time finding 40 things I've never done. It's hard to find them when you're happy, productive and living your dream!

Wealth Is...

Wealth is the ability to fully experience life. 

Even when times are tough, it’s always important to keep things in perspective. 

-You didn’t go to sleep hungry last night. 

-You didn’t go to sleep outside. 

-You had a choice of what clothes to wear this morning. 

-You hardly broke a sweat today. 

-You didn’t spend a minute in fear. 

-You have access to clean drinking water. 

-You have access to medical care. 

-You have access to the Internet. 

-You can read. 

Some might say you are incredibly wealthy, so remember to be grateful for all the things you do have.

Matthew 6:32-34 "(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."

It's Amazing

Romans 11:29 "For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance."

Soapbox time again. This is for every person out there that thinks all pastors are only in the pulpit for the money. I understand in this age of media evangelization everybody thinks pastors are over compensated because of the extravagant lifestyles some of the media preachers live, but all of us don't live like that. In fact the majority of pastors in the US and around the world can barely make it when they retire because they were under compensated most of their ministry.

Now I know in some organizations because of nepotism or connection some people just bypass all the hardships that others seem to have to go through. And don't say I'm jealous because I made that statement because the human side of any person would like the easiest approach to a position. Some pastors have never struggled like most and have more than they know what to do with. But let's face it, the majority of pastors just barely get by if the Lord allows them to live a few years past the pulpit.

Most pastors just go to place because God leads them. and opens a door When I left my former church I was making the most money per week that I had made in 5 years. The church before that could barely pay me and in fact owed me back pay when I left that I will never get. My new church was actually matching what I made at a church I had served for 13 years. I only stayed there 4 months and got the vote to be their permanent pastor, but I felt that I was out of the will of God. Their compensation package was the best I had had in a long time and the human side said, "Take the money", but the spiritual man said, "Go where I send you." I am making a whole lot less now than I was 6 years ago, but my heart is at peace where I am serving as a candidate now.

The problem I have is that I know a whole bunch of pastors who are like me. They don't go somewhere just for the money, but they go because God leads them to that place of ministry. Money is good and we all need it to survive, but the love of money IS the root of all evil. And there are some of us who are called into the ministry not by father or mother, but by God. Sadly, some of those guys will never catch a break or will always pastor a smaller congregation, but they are faithful to their calling and honest before God regardless of their financial compensation.

I don't have a mansion, a plane, or a sailboat. I have enough to get by and my needs are taken care of. I try to live within my means and just trust God. Millions of other pastors do the same. We have a gift and a calling we're not ashamed of. We can't please everybody nor can we solve everybody's problems. We are not spiritual Supermen or Superwomen, just people of faith with a gift and calling from God doing the best we can to honor and represent Him in this world.

So the next time somebody runs your pastor down or talks about overpaying him, just tell them to be quiet. If you have a good pastor take care of him or her. Who knows? When it's all said and done they might have prayed a prayer, made a visit, preached a sermon, or done something else that changed the life of someone you care about dearly. Honor their gifts and calling.

The Price Of A Child

My wife and I have been blessed with a wonderful son and a beautiful daughter-in-law who have given us 4 marvelous grandchildren. My oldest grandson will be 7 years old this Thursday and he is worth every penny we will spend on his birthday. 

Recently, in doing some research, I found out what the estimates are on raising a child. I thought in honor of his birthday I'd add a personal touch. Enjoy!

 The government recently calculated the cost of raising a child from birth to 18 and came up with $160,140.00 for a middle income family. Talk about price shock! That doesn't even touch college tuition.

But $160,140.00 isn't so bad if you break it down. It translates into:

* $8,896.66 a year,
* $741.38 a month,
* $171.08 a week.
* A mere $24.24 a day!
* Just over a dollar an hour.

Still, you might think the best financial advice is, 'don't have children if you want to be 'rich'. Actually, it is just the opposite.

What do you get for your $160,140.00?

* Naming rights . First, middle, and last!
* Glimpses of God every day.
* Giggles under the covers every night.
* More love than your heart can hold.
* Butterfly kisses and Velcro hugs.
* Endless wonder over rocks, ants, clouds, and warm cookies.
* A hand to hold usually covered with jelly or chocolate.
* A partner for blowing bubbles and flying kites.
* Someone to laugh yourself silly with, no matter what the boss said or how your stocks performed that day.

For $160,140.00, you never have to grow up. You get to:

* finger-paint,
* carve pumpkins,
* play hide-and-seek (which his grandmother and I still do),
* catch lightning bugs,
* never stop believing in Santa Claus.

You have an excuse to:

* keep reading the Adventures of Piglet and Pooh,
* watch Saturday morning cartoons,
* go to Disney movies, and
* wish on stars.

You get to frame rainbows, hearts, and flowers under refrigerator magnets and collect spray painted noodle wreaths for Christmas, hand prints set in clay for Mother's Day, and cards with backward letters for Father's Day.

For a mere $24.24 a day, there is no greater bang for your buck. You get to be a hero just for:

* retrieving a Frisbee off the garage roof,
* taking the training wheels off a bike,
* removing a splinter,
* filling a wading pool,
* coaxing a wad of gum out of bangs, and
* coaching a baseball team that never wins, but always gets treated to ice cream regardless.

You get a front row seat in history to witness the:

* First step,
* First word,
* First date,
* First time behind the wheel.

You get to be immortal. You get another branch added to your family tree, and if you're lucky, a long list of limbs in your obituary called children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. You get an education in psychology, nursing, criminal justice, communications, and human sexuality that no college can match.

In the eyes of a child, you rank right up there under God. You have all the power to heal a boo-boo, scare away the monsters under the bed, patch a broken heart, police a slumber party, ground them forever, and love them without limits, so one day they will, like you, love without counting the cost. That is quite a deal for the price!

Love and enjoy your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren because
outside of Jesus it's the best investment you'll ever make!

This Ain't A Perfect World

We read a lot about schoolyard bullies, but the biggest bullies are often people that want to lord over others or cause constant conflict-but bullying is never okay period!  There is no liberty on earth that gives someone the right to assault who you are as a person.  Sadly, some people just won’t be happy until they’ve pushed your ego into the ground and stomped on it.  What you have to do is have the nerve to stand up for yourself and don’t give them leeway.  Nobody has the power to make you feel small unless you give them that power.  It takes a great deal of courage to stand up to your enemies, but just as much, if not more, to stand up to your family and friends.  Sometimes bullying comes from the most unlikely places.  Recognize how the people closest to you treat you, and look out for the subtle jabs they throw.  When necessary, confront them and do whatever it takes to give yourself the opportunity to grow into who you really are.

When trust is broken because of bullying it’s necessary to understand that trust can be repaired, provided both people are willing to do the hard work of self-growth.  In fact, it’s at this time, when it feels like the solid foundation of any relationship has crumbled into dust, that you’re being given an opportunity to shed the paradigms with that person that haven’t been working.  It’s painful work and a painful time, and the first  impulse will be to walk away, especially if you believe that broken trust cannot be repaired.  But if you understand that trust levels rise and fall over the course of a lifetime you’ll be more likely to find the strength to hang in, hang on, and grow together.  But it does take two because you can’t do it alone.

Remember, this is your life.  You may not be able to control all the things others do to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them in the long run.  You can decide not to let their actions and opinions continuously invade your heart and mind.  And above all, you can decide whom to walk beside into tomorrow, and whom to leave behind today.  In a perfect world we would always be able to fix our relationships, but as you know the world isn’t perfect.  Put in the effort and do what you can to keep friendships intact, but don’t be afraid to let go and do what’s right for you when you must.

10 Things To Help You Progress

1. Everything is created twice, first in the mind and then in reality.  So pay close attention to the thoughts you choose. They have a way of becoming real.
2. There is absolutely nothing about your present circumstances that prevents you from making progress, one step at a time.
3. Worry, and you get what you worry about.  Work, and you get what you work for.  It’s often just that simple.
4. You can’t let one bad moment spoil a bunch of good ones.  Don’t let the silly little dramas of each day get you down.
5. Happiness is allowing yourself to be perfectly OK with ‘what is,’ rather than wishing for and worrying about ‘what is not.’  ‘What is’ is what’s supposed to be, or it would not be.  The rest is just you, arguing with life.
6. Frustration and stress come from the way you react, not the way things are.  Adjust your attitude today, and the frustration and stress is gone.
7. Be positive and smile right now, not because everything is good, but because you can see the good side of everything.
8. Lies only exist if you believe in them.  The truth shall indeed set you free in the end.  Whenever negativity creeps into your mind, ask yourself:  Is it true?  Can I be 100% certain that it’s true?  
9. No book is just one chapter.  No chapter tells the whole story.  No mistake defines who we are.  Keep turning the pages that need to be turned.
10. Remember, letting go isn’t about having the courage to release the past; it’s about having the wisdom and strength to embrace the present.

Remember

Romans 8:15  "For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. "

Remember Who You are - You are God's child, You are very precious in His sight and His precious blood was shed for you, never let HIM 

Embed these words in your heart so strongly that they will always pull you out of temptations that come your way all the time. There are times when You will be tempted to give in, but You hear God's voice saying "Remember Who You Are". At that moment the love of Christ flashes in your mind and makes you remember who you are, and you run back to Christ, who is your fortress and refuge.

I want to make difference in everyone's life who come in touch with me, by passing on the light that Christ has given me. I want to always remember who I am in Christ and make sure others do so too. 

So, when Satan looks you in the face and woos you don't give in. Just "Remember Who You are". You are God's child, You are very precious in His sight and His precious blood was shed for you. Never let HIM down'.

Hands

Have you ever looked at your hands?
Open your hands and look at them. Turn them over, palms up and then palms down.

Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. Those hands, though wrinkled, shriveled and weak have been the tools you have used all your life to reach out and grab and embrace life. They braced and caught your fall when as a toddler you crashed upon the floor. They put food in your mouth and clothes on your back. As a child your mother taught you to fold them in prayer. They tied your shoes and pulled on your boots. They dried the tears of your children and caressed the love of your life. They held your rifle and wiped your tears when you went off to war. They have been dirty, scraped and raw, swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when you tried to hold your newborn child. Decorated with your wedding band they showed the world that you were married and loved someone special. They wrote the letters home and trembled and shook when you buried your loved ones and walked your daughter down the aisle. Yet, they were strong and sure when you dug your buddy out of a foxhole or lifted a plow off of your best friends foot. They have held children, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when you didn't understand. They have covered your face, combed your hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of your body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw. And to this day when not much of anything else of you works real well your hands hold you up, lay you down, and again continue to fold in prayer. Your hands are the mark of where you've been and the ruggedness of your life. But more importantly it will be your hands that God will reach out and take when He leads you home. And He won't care about where your hands have been or what they have done. What He will care about is to whom those hands belong and how much He loves those hands. And with those hands He will lift you to His side and there you will use those hands to touch the face of Christ.

No doubt you  will never look at your hands the same again. So when your hands are hurt or sore or when you stroke the face of your children or wife thank the Almighty. I, too, want to touch the face of God and feel his hands upon my face. Thank you, Father God, for hands.

Gratitude

1 Corinthians 15:57 "But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."

Your big breakthrough will come when you recognize that all your inadequacies, all your limitations, and all your failings, losses and setbacks, are only temporary.  And once they pass in the real world, they’re prolonged existence is simply an artificial reality you cling to with your thoughts.

Yes, there may be pain and uncertainty for a while, but it never lasts forever.  Time heals.  Even when we lose loved ones to illnesses, feelings of depression will come and go for months, but eventually they will go away.  It’s easy to get caught up in a bad situation and think, “The world is over!” But actually, these bad feelings and situations are just passing clouds.  They’re just part of an ever-changing experience, and while it’s not always pleasant, it will pass like everything else has passed.  Life doesn’t stop for anyone.

So don’t allow your temporary wounds to permanently transform you into someone you aren’t.  A strong person is not the one who doesn’t cry, but a strong person is the one who cries for a moment openly, and then gets up and fights again for what they believe in. 

Gratitude is an universal solution that is always mentioned is because it works every time.

Even after a loved one passes, the actual present reality of our lives without this loved one isn’t unbearable unless we compare it to the impossible fantasy of them still being alive.  The reality is, we still have our own lives and our health and passions to explore, we still have other wonderful family members and friends who love us, and that’s just the start of things to be grateful for.  Now, this reality isn’t always full of happiness, but you can embrace that too, instead of wishing it matched up with a stressful fantasy.

So keep your head up.  Take a deep breath and be grateful for everything that remains and everything that’s growing stronger in your life.  When it feels like everything is falling apart, remind yourself that you can either let it define you, destroy you, or let it strengthen you.

When you finally let go of what did or didn’t happen, something equally as amazing comes along.  And oftentimes what you’re looking for comes when you’re not looking at all.  Gratitude will help you discover it.