A powerful executive was in a hurry to get home. He has had a very long day at work, he couldn't imagine a better place than to be in his mansion surrounded by all the luxiurious things he had.
He hurried up and ran to his brand new sports car and started to drive home not even paying attention to the speed limit or the traffic around him. He only cared about one thing, himself, himself and himself. He wasn't about to let anyone get in his way, all he wanted to do was get home and relax.
He reached a residential area, there were kids nearby and to him it didn't matter as he continued to cruise down the streets without a care in the world. Then suddently a huge rock came flying towards his front windshield. He panicked and stopped immediately as he saw cracks running in all directions across his brand new windshield.
He was angry, very upset and ready to get out and beat up whatever little punk that did this. He was furious, this has ruined his day for sure. He couldn't believe his sight as the cracks he saw were just sickening.
He flung open his car and looked around, he couldn't see anyone, but then he say a little boy standing on the curb looking at him with tears in his eyes. The man was angry and upset. He yelled at the boy saying "Did you do this? Are you going to pay for what you did?
The little boy cried out "Mister! Mister! Please help me, my brother who is in a wheelchair fell down and I'm not strong enough to get him up. Please help!"
The man turned and looked and saw the older brother who was laying on the ground, his mouth sunk down and he stared in shock. He couldn't believe what he has just done. He felt such a heartbreaking feeling deep down inside so strong that it wouldn't go away for a long time.
He quickly hurried over and helped the older brother up and sat him down in his wheelchair.
The young boy said "Thank You!, Thank You! I didn't mean to throw the rock, but everyone else passed us by and I didn't know what to do."
The man smiled and told the little boy that everything is going to be ok, he knew that someone was trying to tell him something through the actions he has just witnessed.
The man saw it as a sign to slow down, take a look around and don't rush through life so fast that we don't notice the little things. There are many who are around us that need our help, who need our love and who need forgiveness.
The man never fixed his windshield, from this day forward he would always look at it as a reminder of how foolish and stupid he truly was. He will share with others his experience as he has learned from it.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
God's Plan
So often we think that God's plan will be what we are expecting. I recently thought that what was about to happen was part of his plan. Soon afterwords I realized that it wasn't his plan. I started to think and realized that he had a different plan for me.
I was a little bummed, but when I looked at the big picture I started to understand exactly where everything fit in. I sometimes can't comprehend everything and how everything else ties into the thing that I wanted to happen.
I have now realized that it is for the better that whatever I was wishing for will wait. I now know that once we get through our current situation things will work out for the better. We will be able to do what I was hoping for and then it will be even better than it is now.
God is always there for us, sometimes the things that we are wishing for are not granted. We shouldn't get discouraged or upset. We should still keep our trust in him and hold true to his word. Do not get angry and do not think that he isn't with you.
His plan is great and what he has plan will be better than the one we thought. It's hard for us to understand sometimes exactly how it is better, but in the end when we look back on it, we truly understand how much greater it is. We are thankful for what the Lord has done.
There are going to be many trials that we will go through in our lives, it is part of making us stronger. God tests us for a reason, do not loose hope if something that you were expecting doesn't come true. Hold true to the belief that God will make things better. After all, he makes all things new and he will for you. Do not forget that. Also, remember that if God gets you to it, he will get you through it! So if you're having a bad day, stop and pray and let God help you through your day.
You will look back when you are done with your day and realize what all he has done for you.
Never loose hope, keep believing and trusting in God and the rest will come easy!
I was a little bummed, but when I looked at the big picture I started to understand exactly where everything fit in. I sometimes can't comprehend everything and how everything else ties into the thing that I wanted to happen.
I have now realized that it is for the better that whatever I was wishing for will wait. I now know that once we get through our current situation things will work out for the better. We will be able to do what I was hoping for and then it will be even better than it is now.
God is always there for us, sometimes the things that we are wishing for are not granted. We shouldn't get discouraged or upset. We should still keep our trust in him and hold true to his word. Do not get angry and do not think that he isn't with you.
His plan is great and what he has plan will be better than the one we thought. It's hard for us to understand sometimes exactly how it is better, but in the end when we look back on it, we truly understand how much greater it is. We are thankful for what the Lord has done.
There are going to be many trials that we will go through in our lives, it is part of making us stronger. God tests us for a reason, do not loose hope if something that you were expecting doesn't come true. Hold true to the belief that God will make things better. After all, he makes all things new and he will for you. Do not forget that. Also, remember that if God gets you to it, he will get you through it! So if you're having a bad day, stop and pray and let God help you through your day.
You will look back when you are done with your day and realize what all he has done for you.
Never loose hope, keep believing and trusting in God and the rest will come easy!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
We Are Like Fruit
Fruit spoils easily, if we don't eat it in time it will get bad. We are the same way, if we are without the Lord and we go about our daily lives, we will soon run into bad. It will consume us and bring us down, we will be tempted by everything and anything. If we give into those temptations, we will find our lives getting worse and worse.
We can do anything through Christ, but without him we are bad. We can't do things on our own, even if we tried we would fail in the most miserable way possible. The Lord is a very important part of our lives. We must continue to read the word and abide by his commandments.
We will not turn bad, like the fruit with Jesus we will be fresh and full of life. The Lord will show each and everyone of us what our true potential can be if we just walk with him everyday.
So many think it is just too hard to follow the Lord. They believe that they won't have the time or energy to do it. What they don't realize, is that they are giving into doubt, giving into every negative feeling that comes from the devil.
Sure we are going to have our good days and bad days, but with the Lord we will make it through it. Even my days aren't always as great, but I reach out to the Lord and ask him to help me through any struggles that might come my way.
Never give up on the lord and NEVER tell yourself you don't have time. You do! Make time and see the glory that the Lord can reveal in your life. What little time you put into being with the Lord, will reap a great reward!
We can do anything through Christ, but without him we are bad. We can't do things on our own, even if we tried we would fail in the most miserable way possible. The Lord is a very important part of our lives. We must continue to read the word and abide by his commandments.
We will not turn bad, like the fruit with Jesus we will be fresh and full of life. The Lord will show each and everyone of us what our true potential can be if we just walk with him everyday.
So many think it is just too hard to follow the Lord. They believe that they won't have the time or energy to do it. What they don't realize, is that they are giving into doubt, giving into every negative feeling that comes from the devil.
Sure we are going to have our good days and bad days, but with the Lord we will make it through it. Even my days aren't always as great, but I reach out to the Lord and ask him to help me through any struggles that might come my way.
Never give up on the lord and NEVER tell yourself you don't have time. You do! Make time and see the glory that the Lord can reveal in your life. What little time you put into being with the Lord, will reap a great reward!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
The Two Angels
A young man and his wife were so excited about getting married, they had planned their honeymoon for Breckenridge, Colorado. They knew that everything was going to be fun, but was it really? Soon they arrived in Breckenridge. The hotel that they saw on the internet was a total dump. They realized then, that they will never trust any more pictures on the Internet.
The bed was as hard as a rock, there was very little room in the bathroom. The toilet was close enough to the wall where you would bump your head if you got up the wrong way. It was terrible, to say the least. How could it get any worse than this, he thought.
They had already been together for a long time. They spent nearly five years dating each other and getting to know one another. They knew each other inside that there was nothing to hide.
Their 85 Blue Ford Tempo was a nice car, but what he failed to mention is that the shifter was about to go out. He didn't think, even after driving all this way. He ignored the obvious and continued on without taking notice of the warning God was trying to tell him.
Soon they decided to check out Loveland Pass, after a long drive towards the top which was very steep. The roads winded in all directions and it was a pretty site. They walked towards the lookout point and took plenty of pictures.
As he walked back towards his car a couple decided to take their picture for them, he was very happy and accepted gladly. Upon entering the car and starting it up, something went wrong. It wouldn't shift, it was too late now. The shifter was broken and they were at least 10,000 feet above sea level.
He knew he was in trouble at this point in time, he started to get very upset. Both him and his wife were almost in tears because their car was broken down and their honeymoon that they both thought would be awesome, was turning out to be not so great.
They didn't know how they were going to get down, none of them had a cell phone on them on them. What were they going to do, his wife was already in tears and he felt so bad. This was not what he expected or wanted at all.
Two gals overheard them fighting and asked if they would like a ride down to Frisco, which was not far outside of Breckendridge. They agreed with a smile on their faces. These two young gals even decided to wait for them at the local repair shop to see if they could get it towed.
They were so nice and so patient, he thought to himself that God was truly with him. Through all the pain, there was still hope and he wanted to hold onto any bit of hope that was left.
Him and his wife had to spend a few extra days walking back and forth from a bus terminal to shop in Fresco and visit the local Wal-Mart. Not having a car really did have it's moments. Soon they found themselves switching to a nicer hotel in Frisco. Things were looking up and they enjoyed this hotel so much more.
After a few days, a part was brought in from Denver and soon they could be on their way. They're exact thoughts were to get out of this place! They were so happy to be able to have a car.
Through all the walking they realized how much they loved each other. He realized that it must of been a test from God to see how well they can endure together under stressful situations. When he looks back, he realizes that their honeymoon was not the best. It was the experience they shared with made them stronger in the end.
He will never forget the two women who offered them a ride down. All he can remember is that they were from Florida. He will always remember them in his heart.
The bed was as hard as a rock, there was very little room in the bathroom. The toilet was close enough to the wall where you would bump your head if you got up the wrong way. It was terrible, to say the least. How could it get any worse than this, he thought.
They had already been together for a long time. They spent nearly five years dating each other and getting to know one another. They knew each other inside that there was nothing to hide.
Their 85 Blue Ford Tempo was a nice car, but what he failed to mention is that the shifter was about to go out. He didn't think, even after driving all this way. He ignored the obvious and continued on without taking notice of the warning God was trying to tell him.
Soon they decided to check out Loveland Pass, after a long drive towards the top which was very steep. The roads winded in all directions and it was a pretty site. They walked towards the lookout point and took plenty of pictures.
As he walked back towards his car a couple decided to take their picture for them, he was very happy and accepted gladly. Upon entering the car and starting it up, something went wrong. It wouldn't shift, it was too late now. The shifter was broken and they were at least 10,000 feet above sea level.
He knew he was in trouble at this point in time, he started to get very upset. Both him and his wife were almost in tears because their car was broken down and their honeymoon that they both thought would be awesome, was turning out to be not so great.
They didn't know how they were going to get down, none of them had a cell phone on them on them. What were they going to do, his wife was already in tears and he felt so bad. This was not what he expected or wanted at all.
Two gals overheard them fighting and asked if they would like a ride down to Frisco, which was not far outside of Breckendridge. They agreed with a smile on their faces. These two young gals even decided to wait for them at the local repair shop to see if they could get it towed.
They were so nice and so patient, he thought to himself that God was truly with him. Through all the pain, there was still hope and he wanted to hold onto any bit of hope that was left.
Him and his wife had to spend a few extra days walking back and forth from a bus terminal to shop in Fresco and visit the local Wal-Mart. Not having a car really did have it's moments. Soon they found themselves switching to a nicer hotel in Frisco. Things were looking up and they enjoyed this hotel so much more.
After a few days, a part was brought in from Denver and soon they could be on their way. They're exact thoughts were to get out of this place! They were so happy to be able to have a car.
Through all the walking they realized how much they loved each other. He realized that it must of been a test from God to see how well they can endure together under stressful situations. When he looks back, he realizes that their honeymoon was not the best. It was the experience they shared with made them stronger in the end.
He will never forget the two women who offered them a ride down. All he can remember is that they were from Florida. He will always remember them in his heart.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
The Future is Unknown
So many people do not believe that the future can be anything they want it to be. So many try to visualize it, but can't. There will be few that will not doubt that things could be great. They live to deny themselves greatness. If they shall only look and trust in the Lord, they will be surprized by the things that will come.
A young man and his wife were trying so hard to have a baby. What he was trying to do was visualize the future and all he could see was nothing. He didn't believe that anything could happen, he could only think about failure. What he was giving into was the negative feelings and thoughts that overwhelmed his mind.
He in a sense was setting himself up for rejection. He was giving into his fears and worries that he believed so hard that it wouldn't work. What he should of been doing was believing that it would happen. He should of been putting his entire trust in the Lord and not holding back.
It was too hard for him to do that. He found out countless times in anything he was striving for only ended up in failure or dissappointment. As he started to listen to radio shows relating to the Bible he started to understand something very intersting.
He was aware that if we don't trust in God and give ourselves to the Lord fully that we will continue to see failure in our lives.
It is by Christ that we can do all things, he knew that his life had to change and it had to be his way of thinking as well. He had to start looking at the future as being full of new and exciting things to come.
The Lord revealed to him many new things that would change his life, he wouldn't understand it all at once. When he looked back he saw exactly what God's plan had been. He saw that God had showed him that he had Diabetees, he also realized that through the new medicine he was taking would change his body.
An idea of having Watermelon for lunch to help loose weight was doing something for his body that he didn't realize until he saw an e-mail about fruits.
That too tied into God's plan, he soon found out that the Watermelon had a very important vitamin that improved fertility.
As he looked back, he saw all of the great things that God was doing in his life. It all made sense to him. God was doing great things, but it would take a while and all the steps that it took he soon noticed.
Soon he found out that they were expecting, this time there was no need for any fertility treatments. It was on their own, God had done something awesome in his life. Through the medicine to the fruit to the improvement of his fertility made it possible for a new life to emerge. A new Joy that would soon remind all of those who were lost that Jesus can do great things.
Soon that little angel that arrived 9 months later would never be forgotten and many would call him the miracle child.
The man soon realized that God was working in his life, but also for him to share with others how great God can truly be. We just need to focus our attention on him and let the rest fall into place.
A young man and his wife were trying so hard to have a baby. What he was trying to do was visualize the future and all he could see was nothing. He didn't believe that anything could happen, he could only think about failure. What he was giving into was the negative feelings and thoughts that overwhelmed his mind.
He in a sense was setting himself up for rejection. He was giving into his fears and worries that he believed so hard that it wouldn't work. What he should of been doing was believing that it would happen. He should of been putting his entire trust in the Lord and not holding back.
It was too hard for him to do that. He found out countless times in anything he was striving for only ended up in failure or dissappointment. As he started to listen to radio shows relating to the Bible he started to understand something very intersting.
He was aware that if we don't trust in God and give ourselves to the Lord fully that we will continue to see failure in our lives.
It is by Christ that we can do all things, he knew that his life had to change and it had to be his way of thinking as well. He had to start looking at the future as being full of new and exciting things to come.
The Lord revealed to him many new things that would change his life, he wouldn't understand it all at once. When he looked back he saw exactly what God's plan had been. He saw that God had showed him that he had Diabetees, he also realized that through the new medicine he was taking would change his body.
An idea of having Watermelon for lunch to help loose weight was doing something for his body that he didn't realize until he saw an e-mail about fruits.
That too tied into God's plan, he soon found out that the Watermelon had a very important vitamin that improved fertility.
As he looked back, he saw all of the great things that God was doing in his life. It all made sense to him. God was doing great things, but it would take a while and all the steps that it took he soon noticed.
Soon he found out that they were expecting, this time there was no need for any fertility treatments. It was on their own, God had done something awesome in his life. Through the medicine to the fruit to the improvement of his fertility made it possible for a new life to emerge. A new Joy that would soon remind all of those who were lost that Jesus can do great things.
Soon that little angel that arrived 9 months later would never be forgotten and many would call him the miracle child.
The man soon realized that God was working in his life, but also for him to share with others how great God can truly be. We just need to focus our attention on him and let the rest fall into place.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
We Are
We are born into this world, but are we sinless, are we free of that sin at the very moment we are born? I read something very interesting that made sense to me. When we are born, we are born in to a sinful world. We at that very moment are neither good or evil. We just are too little to comprehend everything. The things around us are new and exciting.
It is the temptations that surround us and compel us to do wrong. So are we really bad in the eyes of Jesus? No, we do the actions that the devil wants us to do, we are the weak and the fallen. It is not us that are bad, it is the things that we do which ultimately determine our fate.
A adulter, a rapist, a murder are all bad, but it isn't the person that makes them bad, it is the actions. If anyone of them were to find Jesus today in their lives and repent, they would be cleansed of their sins.
Jesus doesn't hold any sin against us, if we come to him and repent he will wipe away everything that we are holding onto. Those that think they have done too much wrong and that they won't be forgiven are mistaken.
Jesus forgives every sin and no sin is too big for him not to forgive. So don't hold back, if you feel that you can't go on. Stop and kneel before him and pray, call out to him and ask him to come into your life. Ask him to take away all your pain and soon you will feel the burdens that you carry lifted onto his shoulders.
It is the temptations that surround us and compel us to do wrong. So are we really bad in the eyes of Jesus? No, we do the actions that the devil wants us to do, we are the weak and the fallen. It is not us that are bad, it is the things that we do which ultimately determine our fate.
A adulter, a rapist, a murder are all bad, but it isn't the person that makes them bad, it is the actions. If anyone of them were to find Jesus today in their lives and repent, they would be cleansed of their sins.
Jesus doesn't hold any sin against us, if we come to him and repent he will wipe away everything that we are holding onto. Those that think they have done too much wrong and that they won't be forgiven are mistaken.
Jesus forgives every sin and no sin is too big for him not to forgive. So don't hold back, if you feel that you can't go on. Stop and kneel before him and pray, call out to him and ask him to come into your life. Ask him to take away all your pain and soon you will feel the burdens that you carry lifted onto his shoulders.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
The Fisherman
Jacob and his son decided it would be a great weekend to go out on the seas and try and catch some fish. The weather was awesome, there was not a cloud in the sky. Things were looking up and they hoped to catch lots of fish. His son Matt decided it would be a great idea to bring along one of his friends. He invited his great friend Joe.
The boat was ready to sail, the nets were all ready and they had plenty of room for a big load. As they departed into the quiet waters, things started to get interesting. What they thought was a cloudless day started to change, clouds began to appear out of no where and soon increased in size.
The waters were still calm, but it wouldn't before long and things would get really dangerous if they stayed out. Matt's friend thought that maybe the storm would bring in lots of fish, but was his friend really right?
The waves started to splash against the sides of the boat, the clouds all around were turning very dark. The three of them started to hold on as the boat started to rock from side to side. The waters were getting very fierce as things got intersting.
They tried to hold on for their lives as the waves splashed over the boat, filling it up quickly. Jacob and his son were started to worry and they didn't know what to do. As the winds started to increase and as the boat was whipped around, Jacob called out to the Lord. He said "Where are you Lord?, Don't let me die at a time like this, will you send your angels to protect us. Hear us oh Lord, do not forget us!"
The waters started to calm down, the heavy rains stopped and something awesome just started to happen. The clouds started to seperate and in the middle of the sky appeared several rays of sunshine as they peaked through the clouds.
They witnessed something miraculous before their very eyes. They stood there motionless as they all looked up. A great lightning bolt struck down on all sides of the boat, but it wasn't hurting them. Thousands upon thousands of fish started to flop up and down in the waters. The three men grabbed the nets quickly and tried to catch as many as they could. They were overwhelmed, their boat was filled to the max.
There was no way they could take anymore fish. They were happy and filled with excitement. Nothing like this had ever happened before.
Jacob turned and looked up at the sky, he said "Oh Lord, Thank You. You are an awesome God! You didn't have to do this for us, but you protected us and made sure that we made it through. Even though we are just three out of millions, you still cared for us."
Jacob had a great feeling. He thought that even though God was great and powerful that he will never forget any one of us. Jacob knew that God could hear each and everyone of our thoughts and be with us all at the same time, to him that was amazing enough just to think about it.
He told his son on the way back, "God was with us today, we may be small, but he loves all of his children and will do anything to save us."
They all learned a valuable lesson from this, they will remember it for the rest of their lives and share it with many others as a testimony to their faith.
The boat was ready to sail, the nets were all ready and they had plenty of room for a big load. As they departed into the quiet waters, things started to get interesting. What they thought was a cloudless day started to change, clouds began to appear out of no where and soon increased in size.
The waters were still calm, but it wouldn't before long and things would get really dangerous if they stayed out. Matt's friend thought that maybe the storm would bring in lots of fish, but was his friend really right?
The waves started to splash against the sides of the boat, the clouds all around were turning very dark. The three of them started to hold on as the boat started to rock from side to side. The waters were getting very fierce as things got intersting.
They tried to hold on for their lives as the waves splashed over the boat, filling it up quickly. Jacob and his son were started to worry and they didn't know what to do. As the winds started to increase and as the boat was whipped around, Jacob called out to the Lord. He said "Where are you Lord?, Don't let me die at a time like this, will you send your angels to protect us. Hear us oh Lord, do not forget us!"
The waters started to calm down, the heavy rains stopped and something awesome just started to happen. The clouds started to seperate and in the middle of the sky appeared several rays of sunshine as they peaked through the clouds.
They witnessed something miraculous before their very eyes. They stood there motionless as they all looked up. A great lightning bolt struck down on all sides of the boat, but it wasn't hurting them. Thousands upon thousands of fish started to flop up and down in the waters. The three men grabbed the nets quickly and tried to catch as many as they could. They were overwhelmed, their boat was filled to the max.
There was no way they could take anymore fish. They were happy and filled with excitement. Nothing like this had ever happened before.
Jacob turned and looked up at the sky, he said "Oh Lord, Thank You. You are an awesome God! You didn't have to do this for us, but you protected us and made sure that we made it through. Even though we are just three out of millions, you still cared for us."
Jacob had a great feeling. He thought that even though God was great and powerful that he will never forget any one of us. Jacob knew that God could hear each and everyone of our thoughts and be with us all at the same time, to him that was amazing enough just to think about it.
He told his son on the way back, "God was with us today, we may be small, but he loves all of his children and will do anything to save us."
They all learned a valuable lesson from this, they will remember it for the rest of their lives and share it with many others as a testimony to their faith.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
God was always there
Throughout my life I have endured many different kinds of trials and temptations. Some of them have been harder to deal with. One such event happened years and years ago. I was living at home and I came home one day from picking my girlfiend up at the time, who now is my wife of 10 years.
I saw my mom's brother talking on the phone, my dad was not where to be found and I knew right away what had happened. I thought as my heart sunk to the ground, "Oh No!" I started to feel the sadness creeping up inside me, stronger than ever before. I knew something terrible had happened and this was not the thing that I had envisioned.
My mom's brother told me that she was at the hospital with my dad. He said, "You're mom has had a heart attack, and your dad is with her." Tears started to flow down my face, I was terrified almost more than it would be if I saw a spider. I was so upset, I just wanted her to be ok. I don't know how many times I prayed to the Lord that night, but it must of been a thousand. My girlfriend at the time tried to comfort me and tell me that everything was going to be ok. I started to doubt God and I thought the worse, that she's going to die and that I'll never get to see her again.
I wanted to see her so bad, we drove right away and headed towards the hospital. We hurried in quickly and went towards the waiting room. I saw my family there, I could tell that they were worried as the looks on their faces did not look good. That didn't make things easier for me, it made it worse.
I don't know what kind of heart attack she had, but I remember it wasn't a good one. She had to have a bypass surgery and I remember walking into the emergency room before as they were monitoring her. I could see the tears in her eyes, I knew the pain was deep inside me and I could tell my father was not doing so well.
I continued to pray and pray. I'm sure that the prayer hotline in Heaven was going bezerk from all the prayers that I was sending. I talked to my mom and told her that everything is going to be ok. I couldn't stay long because they had to run some more tests and I hoped that this was not the last time that I would see her.
As soon as she was scheduled for surgery, me and my family waited out in the waiting room. Time seemed to tick slower than ever, was it doing this for a reason just to try and annoy me. I wanted everything to be ok and I wanted my mom to come out alright.
I remember going into the room shortly before she was to have surgery. The sight that I saw I will never forget. She was hooked up to all kinds of machines and tubes. I know it was for the best, but it scared me. However, I knew that everything was going to be alright. I had to keep hoping and praying, because there was no way that I was going to let my mom down.
Things went great, she came out of the surgery and was able to go home in a few days. I remember her coming home in a wheelchair with an oxygen tube. She would have to use that until she was able to breathe on her own again. It wasn't long and she was doing great.
She made it through one of the hardest times in my life. God was there and he was with me. I don't know how I survived it, because I am a very sensative person and everytime I went home, I cried so much as I listened to inspirational music to cheer me up.
I knew that God was there and he was working in her life and mine. It may not have seemed like that at the time, but he was. So many people are not fortunate to have the same scenario happen to them. To those of you, I say this. God still has not forgotton you. Do not put blame God for what has happened, when we live in a sinful world the devil is out to get each and every one of us. Bad things happen, we will never understand them until the end of time.
Just like the saying says, "If God will get you to it, he will get you through it" So never forget him, especially in the time that you are suffering the most. Reach out to the Lord and ask him to be with you when you are down and sad. He will bring you through it, but never give up on him. Never!!!
I saw my mom's brother talking on the phone, my dad was not where to be found and I knew right away what had happened. I thought as my heart sunk to the ground, "Oh No!" I started to feel the sadness creeping up inside me, stronger than ever before. I knew something terrible had happened and this was not the thing that I had envisioned.
My mom's brother told me that she was at the hospital with my dad. He said, "You're mom has had a heart attack, and your dad is with her." Tears started to flow down my face, I was terrified almost more than it would be if I saw a spider. I was so upset, I just wanted her to be ok. I don't know how many times I prayed to the Lord that night, but it must of been a thousand. My girlfriend at the time tried to comfort me and tell me that everything was going to be ok. I started to doubt God and I thought the worse, that she's going to die and that I'll never get to see her again.
I wanted to see her so bad, we drove right away and headed towards the hospital. We hurried in quickly and went towards the waiting room. I saw my family there, I could tell that they were worried as the looks on their faces did not look good. That didn't make things easier for me, it made it worse.
I don't know what kind of heart attack she had, but I remember it wasn't a good one. She had to have a bypass surgery and I remember walking into the emergency room before as they were monitoring her. I could see the tears in her eyes, I knew the pain was deep inside me and I could tell my father was not doing so well.
I continued to pray and pray. I'm sure that the prayer hotline in Heaven was going bezerk from all the prayers that I was sending. I talked to my mom and told her that everything is going to be ok. I couldn't stay long because they had to run some more tests and I hoped that this was not the last time that I would see her.
As soon as she was scheduled for surgery, me and my family waited out in the waiting room. Time seemed to tick slower than ever, was it doing this for a reason just to try and annoy me. I wanted everything to be ok and I wanted my mom to come out alright.
I remember going into the room shortly before she was to have surgery. The sight that I saw I will never forget. She was hooked up to all kinds of machines and tubes. I know it was for the best, but it scared me. However, I knew that everything was going to be alright. I had to keep hoping and praying, because there was no way that I was going to let my mom down.
Things went great, she came out of the surgery and was able to go home in a few days. I remember her coming home in a wheelchair with an oxygen tube. She would have to use that until she was able to breathe on her own again. It wasn't long and she was doing great.
She made it through one of the hardest times in my life. God was there and he was with me. I don't know how I survived it, because I am a very sensative person and everytime I went home, I cried so much as I listened to inspirational music to cheer me up.
I knew that God was there and he was working in her life and mine. It may not have seemed like that at the time, but he was. So many people are not fortunate to have the same scenario happen to them. To those of you, I say this. God still has not forgotton you. Do not put blame God for what has happened, when we live in a sinful world the devil is out to get each and every one of us. Bad things happen, we will never understand them until the end of time.
Just like the saying says, "If God will get you to it, he will get you through it" So never forget him, especially in the time that you are suffering the most. Reach out to the Lord and ask him to be with you when you are down and sad. He will bring you through it, but never give up on him. Never!!!
The Battle
What we see and what we don't see are two different things. In another place, outside of time there is a war that has been going on since the beginning of time. All around us there are angels, both good and bad battling it out for your survival. Everytime you sin, the presence of the dark angels are all around you. The good angels fight the good fight to wipe out those bad angels.
One such battle goes on right now in a man's living room. He is sitting in front of the television deciding what to watch. He can't make up his mind between turning the channel to a inspirational show, or to watch something that he knows he shouldn't watch.
He turns the television to the naughty channel and gives into his temptation. Before him and all around him in this time outside of time stands four to five great big dark angels, nearly 7-10 feet each. They are egging him on, they are saying all sorts of things such as "Go for it", "Do it" , "It's ok to watch it" , "no one will know", and everything else you could possibly think of.
The man starts to watch as the dark angels look on. Suddenly about ten great angels rush in from all directions and swing their swords in every direction. Metal clashes against metal, several of the bad angels fall. The man feels like he shouldbn't be doing this. It is the destruction of the bad angels that leads him to feel guilty as he then turns the channel and starts to watch something better as he repents for his sins.
This story is not true, but everyday there really are both good and bad angels all around us. It's just that we can't see them or hear them, but there is a battle going on. It probably has been going on since the beginning of time or since Lucifer (Satan) was cast out of Heaven by the ArcAngel Michael. The leader of the Seraphim, the highest order of Angels that there are.
So when you feel tempted, speak out loud and call out for Jesus to send his angels to destroy those bad influences in your life. Ask him to come into your life and show you the things that you are missing. Do not be afraid to talk to the Lord. For he is great and his ways are righteous.
One such battle goes on right now in a man's living room. He is sitting in front of the television deciding what to watch. He can't make up his mind between turning the channel to a inspirational show, or to watch something that he knows he shouldn't watch.
He turns the television to the naughty channel and gives into his temptation. Before him and all around him in this time outside of time stands four to five great big dark angels, nearly 7-10 feet each. They are egging him on, they are saying all sorts of things such as "Go for it", "Do it" , "It's ok to watch it" , "no one will know", and everything else you could possibly think of.
The man starts to watch as the dark angels look on. Suddenly about ten great angels rush in from all directions and swing their swords in every direction. Metal clashes against metal, several of the bad angels fall. The man feels like he shouldbn't be doing this. It is the destruction of the bad angels that leads him to feel guilty as he then turns the channel and starts to watch something better as he repents for his sins.
This story is not true, but everyday there really are both good and bad angels all around us. It's just that we can't see them or hear them, but there is a battle going on. It probably has been going on since the beginning of time or since Lucifer (Satan) was cast out of Heaven by the ArcAngel Michael. The leader of the Seraphim, the highest order of Angels that there are.
So when you feel tempted, speak out loud and call out for Jesus to send his angels to destroy those bad influences in your life. Ask him to come into your life and show you the things that you are missing. Do not be afraid to talk to the Lord. For he is great and his ways are righteous.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
The Little Angels
I was sitting on my deck watching out over the fields and taking notice to all the creatures that moved about in the early morning. What I saw right in front of me was a small robin that landed on the deck. He sat there and looked at me, he tilted his head and started to sing.
Soon after he started to sing, another one appeared and started to look at me curiously and he too started to sing beautiful music. Another one now showed up and began to sing. I couldn't believe my eyes, this has never happened to me in my entire life. Yes I loved birds, but I never dreamed of such a thing happening to me.
I sat back and listening to their tune, it was so amazing how it sounded. These little precious creatures were like little angels. They had wings, their music was awe inspiring and they were a great companion that morning.
They started to speak in their own tongue, I couldn't understand them, but I knew they were trying to communicate with me. I didn't know what to say, I shrugged my shoulders looking back at them. Again they spoke, they tried to so hard as I heard them speaking several times as they talked back and forth to each other.
Just then, one flew my way and it about freaked me out as it landed right on the table just inches away. It looked at me again and then walked right onto my arm. Now I was shocked, it was so cool. How is this possible I thought, no birds would ever dare to come this close to a human.
Then something very strange started to happen, they started to disappear one after another. Those three little birds were gone and I couldn't understand why. I started to think really hard and then remembered that these little birds must of been the three little baby birds that never made it in the Robins nest.
What I wondered is what are they trying to say? I told my wife about it later that night, and she started to confess something awesome to me. She said that she was late by at least 5 weeks. Soon we realized that she was pregnant again, but this time it wasn't an In Vitro. It was on our own.
I turned and looked towards the deck as my mouth dropped and my eyes started to tear. I saw the sign that God was showing me. He was telling me that soon you will have a beautiful new baby on the way. I never thought this was possible, even for me.
I started to cry tears full of joy and I was so happy that I couldn't stop crying. I smiled widely and from that moment on I will never think of birds the same way when I see them. They are truly God's Little Angels.
I wish we were having a 2nd, but only time will tell. :)
Soon after he started to sing, another one appeared and started to look at me curiously and he too started to sing beautiful music. Another one now showed up and began to sing. I couldn't believe my eyes, this has never happened to me in my entire life. Yes I loved birds, but I never dreamed of such a thing happening to me.
I sat back and listening to their tune, it was so amazing how it sounded. These little precious creatures were like little angels. They had wings, their music was awe inspiring and they were a great companion that morning.
They started to speak in their own tongue, I couldn't understand them, but I knew they were trying to communicate with me. I didn't know what to say, I shrugged my shoulders looking back at them. Again they spoke, they tried to so hard as I heard them speaking several times as they talked back and forth to each other.
Just then, one flew my way and it about freaked me out as it landed right on the table just inches away. It looked at me again and then walked right onto my arm. Now I was shocked, it was so cool. How is this possible I thought, no birds would ever dare to come this close to a human.
Then something very strange started to happen, they started to disappear one after another. Those three little birds were gone and I couldn't understand why. I started to think really hard and then remembered that these little birds must of been the three little baby birds that never made it in the Robins nest.
What I wondered is what are they trying to say? I told my wife about it later that night, and she started to confess something awesome to me. She said that she was late by at least 5 weeks. Soon we realized that she was pregnant again, but this time it wasn't an In Vitro. It was on our own.
I turned and looked towards the deck as my mouth dropped and my eyes started to tear. I saw the sign that God was showing me. He was telling me that soon you will have a beautiful new baby on the way. I never thought this was possible, even for me.
I started to cry tears full of joy and I was so happy that I couldn't stop crying. I smiled widely and from that moment on I will never think of birds the same way when I see them. They are truly God's Little Angels.
I wish we were having a 2nd, but only time will tell. :)
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Angels Are Among Us
The Word Angel refers to the heavenly being that exists in Heaven. They are not Human and can't live a human life. However, some people say they have seen Angels, some have seen the great ArcAngels as described in the Bible. Not all Angels that people have seen appear with wings, some appear as normal people.
However, the Angels I am talking about are the ones like you and me who can reach out and touch another. We may not have wings, we may not have the knowledge that the real angels have. What we do have is the conviction to reach out and touch another.
We can be like Christ if we truly want to be, but so many fail only because they are afraid to be something they don't think they can be. It is true that so many are afraid of what the other might say, but trust me. The minute you reach out and say Hello or God Bless You, you will feel an awesome feeling rushing throughout you. Maybe not all of you, but some will.
You will feel good in the actions you do, the words you say and the person you say it to will probably feel better. Even if they are having a bad day it probably will cheer them up and they'll remember you. Even if you are not sure how to say it, just talk to the Lord and ask him for his advice.
You will be surprized what he will do in your lives. It may not happen right away, but he will show himself to you in a certain way. You will know what he is talking about, just listen closely and you will hear his voice. It may be through the words that someone speaks, it could be through the radio. He will send his signs to you, just be sure not to overlook them and you will be astonished at what he has to show you.
The Lord will continue to show you in your life what all you are capable of, don't ever think you can't do it. You can do anything through Christ. You just have to believe and listen closely to what he has to say.
In all honesty I thought the same thing a few weeks ago before I started this whole blogging thing. I was trying to write in Microsoft Word and everything I started to write, I immediately erased. I was starting to get frustrated. I couldn't believe that I was running into a writers block.
I told the Lord that I needed his help, I wanted to write a book and I couldn't do it without him. So one day I was telling one of my relatives how much I enjoyed writing and that I wanted to write. She suggested that I start a blog. Well in so many ways I feel that God was speaking through her.
What he wanted was for me to start blogging and sharing some of my writings. So here I am writing these inspirational stories that I hope will touch your heart in a great way. I feel that the Lord is leading me in a great direction that will grow over time.
Who knows, I could probably have a ton of followers in no time which is great. All I say is don't give up on the Lord. Ask and you shall receive! Give yourself to the Lord and let him work miracles in your life.
However, the Angels I am talking about are the ones like you and me who can reach out and touch another. We may not have wings, we may not have the knowledge that the real angels have. What we do have is the conviction to reach out and touch another.
We can be like Christ if we truly want to be, but so many fail only because they are afraid to be something they don't think they can be. It is true that so many are afraid of what the other might say, but trust me. The minute you reach out and say Hello or God Bless You, you will feel an awesome feeling rushing throughout you. Maybe not all of you, but some will.
You will feel good in the actions you do, the words you say and the person you say it to will probably feel better. Even if they are having a bad day it probably will cheer them up and they'll remember you. Even if you are not sure how to say it, just talk to the Lord and ask him for his advice.
You will be surprized what he will do in your lives. It may not happen right away, but he will show himself to you in a certain way. You will know what he is talking about, just listen closely and you will hear his voice. It may be through the words that someone speaks, it could be through the radio. He will send his signs to you, just be sure not to overlook them and you will be astonished at what he has to show you.
The Lord will continue to show you in your life what all you are capable of, don't ever think you can't do it. You can do anything through Christ. You just have to believe and listen closely to what he has to say.
In all honesty I thought the same thing a few weeks ago before I started this whole blogging thing. I was trying to write in Microsoft Word and everything I started to write, I immediately erased. I was starting to get frustrated. I couldn't believe that I was running into a writers block.
I told the Lord that I needed his help, I wanted to write a book and I couldn't do it without him. So one day I was telling one of my relatives how much I enjoyed writing and that I wanted to write. She suggested that I start a blog. Well in so many ways I feel that God was speaking through her.
What he wanted was for me to start blogging and sharing some of my writings. So here I am writing these inspirational stories that I hope will touch your heart in a great way. I feel that the Lord is leading me in a great direction that will grow over time.
Who knows, I could probably have a ton of followers in no time which is great. All I say is don't give up on the Lord. Ask and you shall receive! Give yourself to the Lord and let him work miracles in your life.
God's Creations
It seems that everyday we rush through our lives not noticing what God has provided for us, only to ignore them and take them for granted. We see the birds, we see the trees and we see all of his creations, but do we even stop and think what all went into them. Do we stop and cherish them and thank him for them.
One day I was driving along as most people do, I wasn't paying attention to anything. I didn't really see the trees as being a beautiful creation, I just saw them as trees. It was the same when I saw a bird or anything else, what I was missing was the fact that the Lord had created these things for us, to enjoy and to keep us company.
I started to notice something as the Lord showed it to me. He was trying to say to me, look! Do you see the things that it took to create that tree, do you not see the little birds that fly and sing joy. How can you miss these things, are you blind and deaf?
I realized that what God was trying to convey to me is that I should take notice and appreciate all that he has done for me. I was starting to forget how truly awesome his works were. I started to look at things now with a better appreciation for everything.
For God had given us the ideas, the knowledge and the ability to create these things. We did not get these things on our own, we borrowed the ideas from God. So when you hear someone say "Look what I did", remind them that it wasn't them, but it was God's idea.
So many of us forget, it's time to wake up and see what God has given to us and to thank him in return. I no longer go through life just looking at anything, to me I have a new outlook on everything. When I see the clouds, the land, the birds I know that God had his works in these and I appreciate all that he has done.
One day I was driving along as most people do, I wasn't paying attention to anything. I didn't really see the trees as being a beautiful creation, I just saw them as trees. It was the same when I saw a bird or anything else, what I was missing was the fact that the Lord had created these things for us, to enjoy and to keep us company.
I started to notice something as the Lord showed it to me. He was trying to say to me, look! Do you see the things that it took to create that tree, do you not see the little birds that fly and sing joy. How can you miss these things, are you blind and deaf?
I realized that what God was trying to convey to me is that I should take notice and appreciate all that he has done for me. I was starting to forget how truly awesome his works were. I started to look at things now with a better appreciation for everything.
For God had given us the ideas, the knowledge and the ability to create these things. We did not get these things on our own, we borrowed the ideas from God. So when you hear someone say "Look what I did", remind them that it wasn't them, but it was God's idea.
So many of us forget, it's time to wake up and see what God has given to us and to thank him in return. I no longer go through life just looking at anything, to me I have a new outlook on everything. When I see the clouds, the land, the birds I know that God had his works in these and I appreciate all that he has done.
The Robin's Nest
It was a few years ago, shortly after my wife had become pregnant that we noticed two robins that built a nest right underneath our deck. My wife demanded that I take down the nest, because she didn't want to see them anymore.
I didn't want to do that, I love birds and I wanted them to stay there. I didn't want to disturb them. Day after day came as I watched the male robin going out to get food while the female waiting inside the nest. It was interesting to hear his call, the voice that uttered from that little beak of his. It was so much fun to watch them everyday and it brought great joy to my heart to know we had visitors.
My wife asked me again several times, but each time I said no. I can't take them away, I heard babies and I knew now was not the time to take them away. Throughout the summer I watched them on and off thanking the Lord for bringing us such nice visitors. Their company was welcomed greatly.
The summer ended and soon they were gone, I didn't see them anymore. I was sad, I enjoyed listening to their sweet music and hearing them talk to each other. It was if a part of me had been taken with them, but I knew a greater joy was on the way.
A joy that I will never forget, the birth of our first child. Shortly afterwords I noticed that we had in our possesion two small ceramic robins that were painted so well. These used to be my grandma Betty's and we acquired them.
I thought to myself, was this a sign from God? How cool was that to have two Robins like the two that visited us. Although, that was not the best to come. What I noticed while looking through the deck to see what was in the nest nearly shocked me.
I remember during the In Vitro that only four embryos were put in. Three of them didn't make it and we were happy with just the one that made it. When I looked through the deck I saw three little baby birds that were no longer alive. They must not of made it through the summer, either the parents couldn't find enough food or something beyond my understanding happened.
I immediately thought of the three embryos that didn't make it, I saw this as a sign from God that he was with us. Looking back now, I realize that it all fit together.
God was with us when we did the Invitro, I trusted in him and he brought us a miracle. His love was with us in the Hospital when we went through some of the hardest times in our life. It all made sense now, God has always been with me. He was showing these things because he wanted me to know that every step of the way he was there.
I will always wonder if those three Embryos are in Heaven, maybe I will see them as our children or maybe not.
I didn't want to do that, I love birds and I wanted them to stay there. I didn't want to disturb them. Day after day came as I watched the male robin going out to get food while the female waiting inside the nest. It was interesting to hear his call, the voice that uttered from that little beak of his. It was so much fun to watch them everyday and it brought great joy to my heart to know we had visitors.
My wife asked me again several times, but each time I said no. I can't take them away, I heard babies and I knew now was not the time to take them away. Throughout the summer I watched them on and off thanking the Lord for bringing us such nice visitors. Their company was welcomed greatly.
The summer ended and soon they were gone, I didn't see them anymore. I was sad, I enjoyed listening to their sweet music and hearing them talk to each other. It was if a part of me had been taken with them, but I knew a greater joy was on the way.
A joy that I will never forget, the birth of our first child. Shortly afterwords I noticed that we had in our possesion two small ceramic robins that were painted so well. These used to be my grandma Betty's and we acquired them.
I thought to myself, was this a sign from God? How cool was that to have two Robins like the two that visited us. Although, that was not the best to come. What I noticed while looking through the deck to see what was in the nest nearly shocked me.
I remember during the In Vitro that only four embryos were put in. Three of them didn't make it and we were happy with just the one that made it. When I looked through the deck I saw three little baby birds that were no longer alive. They must not of made it through the summer, either the parents couldn't find enough food or something beyond my understanding happened.
I immediately thought of the three embryos that didn't make it, I saw this as a sign from God that he was with us. Looking back now, I realize that it all fit together.
God was with us when we did the Invitro, I trusted in him and he brought us a miracle. His love was with us in the Hospital when we went through some of the hardest times in our life. It all made sense now, God has always been with me. He was showing these things because he wanted me to know that every step of the way he was there.
I will always wonder if those three Embryos are in Heaven, maybe I will see them as our children or maybe not.
The J Word Part II
It was time for me to go home and take out the dog, since mommy wasn't going to be able to leave for a week, I had to do some of the runnings. As I was driving home with the radio going, I couldn't help start to cry. I started to talk to the Lord and ask him why it was that our poor daughter had to go through this.
I wondered why we had to deal with this, when we had enough troubles trying to bring a beautiful joy into our lives. I couldn't stop the tears, no matter how hard I tried. They flowed like a river and I was feeling so down. I wanted her to be ok, I wanted her to not feel anymore pain and be the little girl we wanted her to be.
I got home and let out the dog. I turned on the radio and started to let our dog run around for a while so that he wouldn't feel like he had to be couped up all day long. I dropped to my knees, so sad and so crushed that I started balling. I know that most men don't cry, but I couldn't help it. I was so sad, I was also so worried that our daughter would not make it.
I asked the Lord and pleaded with him that he please give us a chance. All I wanted was her to be ok, as any father would. I returned to the hospital after putting our dog into his cage. He started to bark as he didn't want me to leave, but I couldn't stay away for long because mommy needed my support.
Things started to get better, the numbers started to drop, we were very happy. It was a great feeling to know that the lights were working, we wanted her to stay under the lights if it is helping. The doctor on call came in and told us that in a few days we probably would be able to leave.
We were so happy, we couldn't wait. Another day went by and our hopes were crushed as one of the nurses told us that the numbers have started to rise again. They were not sure what was going on, but it worried us so much. We held each other close and I felt the worse feeling deep down inside. I didn't want her to die, I need her more than anything. If I lost her, I don't know what I would do.
It was hard, but several days passed and things started to get better. I could feel that the Lord was with us. Our daughter was starting to loose the jaundice, we were so thankful. I thanked the Lord with all of my heart.
Our main doctor whom we see quite often for colds came in, he told us that things were looking great. He said it should be another day and then we would be able to go home. He gave us a few papers and told us were are going to have to pick up a bili blanket. He told us that it plugs into the wall and we'll have to wrap her in the lights to keep the jaundice down. We had to do that for the next two weeks and most of the time she was in her swing rocking while we had her near the window, the fresh sunlight also helped greatly.
Soon, she was starting to wake up. She was starting to act like a baby should be. We were so glad to be home, it was the best feeling in the world. I knew it was hard, but in the end God got us through it once again. I did trust in God the entire time, sometimes I may have been worried, but who wouldn't be. It's human nature, but as long as I held onto the belief that she was going to be ok, the rest would work out in the end.
I wondered why we had to deal with this, when we had enough troubles trying to bring a beautiful joy into our lives. I couldn't stop the tears, no matter how hard I tried. They flowed like a river and I was feeling so down. I wanted her to be ok, I wanted her to not feel anymore pain and be the little girl we wanted her to be.
I got home and let out the dog. I turned on the radio and started to let our dog run around for a while so that he wouldn't feel like he had to be couped up all day long. I dropped to my knees, so sad and so crushed that I started balling. I know that most men don't cry, but I couldn't help it. I was so sad, I was also so worried that our daughter would not make it.
I asked the Lord and pleaded with him that he please give us a chance. All I wanted was her to be ok, as any father would. I returned to the hospital after putting our dog into his cage. He started to bark as he didn't want me to leave, but I couldn't stay away for long because mommy needed my support.
Things started to get better, the numbers started to drop, we were very happy. It was a great feeling to know that the lights were working, we wanted her to stay under the lights if it is helping. The doctor on call came in and told us that in a few days we probably would be able to leave.
We were so happy, we couldn't wait. Another day went by and our hopes were crushed as one of the nurses told us that the numbers have started to rise again. They were not sure what was going on, but it worried us so much. We held each other close and I felt the worse feeling deep down inside. I didn't want her to die, I need her more than anything. If I lost her, I don't know what I would do.
It was hard, but several days passed and things started to get better. I could feel that the Lord was with us. Our daughter was starting to loose the jaundice, we were so thankful. I thanked the Lord with all of my heart.
Our main doctor whom we see quite often for colds came in, he told us that things were looking great. He said it should be another day and then we would be able to go home. He gave us a few papers and told us were are going to have to pick up a bili blanket. He told us that it plugs into the wall and we'll have to wrap her in the lights to keep the jaundice down. We had to do that for the next two weeks and most of the time she was in her swing rocking while we had her near the window, the fresh sunlight also helped greatly.
Soon, she was starting to wake up. She was starting to act like a baby should be. We were so glad to be home, it was the best feeling in the world. I knew it was hard, but in the end God got us through it once again. I did trust in God the entire time, sometimes I may have been worried, but who wouldn't be. It's human nature, but as long as I held onto the belief that she was going to be ok, the rest would work out in the end.
The J Word Part I
Our daughter was finally here, we were so excited and we couldn't wait to hold her. I was holding her in my arms for the first time and it was a blessing. She was wrapped up in a small blanket, they had just cleaned her off and mommy wasn't able to hold her. She was very disappointed, but they had to sew her back up after having to cut in order to fit the baby out.
I was worried and I rocked this beautiful bundle of joy as I watched on, the nurses moving around and trying to stop the bleeding. They packed her with all kinds of stuff to stop the bleeding. Our daughter was a tough one to come out, but in the end it was well worth it.
Because of the way she was situated her head was a little red, she had to wear a small hat. She was also Jaundice and that's the biggest worry that we had. We knew right then that we wouldn't be able to leave the hospital as we had planned. Mommy was really excited to leave the next day, but her hopes were crashed as we realized our daughter had Jaundice pretty bad.
They took her away from us and told us that she needed to be under the lights in the nursery. Even when we did have her, all she wanted to do was sleep. It was heartbreaking for us. We both wanted to hold her and cherish her, the only times that they would bring her in was for feedings. That alone was hard enough because she wasn't always awake. Whenever she did try, she would fall asleep right away again.
Yes, it was frustrating and we wanted her to stay awake. We tried, but nothing seemed to work. The Jaundice was causing most of this, it was sad enough and for us this was a very hard time.
The days passed, we were unable to see her as she had to be under these lights. We remember going into the nursery and looking at our miracle from God laying there with a patch over her eyes. We couldn't help almost crying as we wanted to hold her so bad. I could tell that mommy was missing her so much.
We went back to the room and mommy started to cry, she wanted to hold her so bad. This wasn't fair and I could feel the pain deep down inside. I held the tears in to support her and be there for her. However, it wouldn't be long before I could no longer hold back the tears. I too wanted to hold my daughter, I was anxious and desperate to touch her, the few times I could I tried to cherish every moment.
I was worried and I rocked this beautiful bundle of joy as I watched on, the nurses moving around and trying to stop the bleeding. They packed her with all kinds of stuff to stop the bleeding. Our daughter was a tough one to come out, but in the end it was well worth it.
Because of the way she was situated her head was a little red, she had to wear a small hat. She was also Jaundice and that's the biggest worry that we had. We knew right then that we wouldn't be able to leave the hospital as we had planned. Mommy was really excited to leave the next day, but her hopes were crashed as we realized our daughter had Jaundice pretty bad.
They took her away from us and told us that she needed to be under the lights in the nursery. Even when we did have her, all she wanted to do was sleep. It was heartbreaking for us. We both wanted to hold her and cherish her, the only times that they would bring her in was for feedings. That alone was hard enough because she wasn't always awake. Whenever she did try, she would fall asleep right away again.
Yes, it was frustrating and we wanted her to stay awake. We tried, but nothing seemed to work. The Jaundice was causing most of this, it was sad enough and for us this was a very hard time.
The days passed, we were unable to see her as she had to be under these lights. We remember going into the nursery and looking at our miracle from God laying there with a patch over her eyes. We couldn't help almost crying as we wanted to hold her so bad. I could tell that mommy was missing her so much.
We went back to the room and mommy started to cry, she wanted to hold her so bad. This wasn't fair and I could feel the pain deep down inside. I held the tears in to support her and be there for her. However, it wouldn't be long before I could no longer hold back the tears. I too wanted to hold my daughter, I was anxious and desperate to touch her, the few times I could I tried to cherish every moment.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Send Me A Sign
The year was 1989 and I was almost done with my 8th grade. Most of my friends I would never see again because I was going to start going to a public school. We were ready to go on a field trip to a church camp. It was going to be lots of fun I thought to myself. I was ready to check it out, I loved anything and everything that had to do with the outdoors.
We all loaded our stuff on the bus and started to drive towards the church camp. I remember arriving and thinking, this place looks like a bunch of fun. There was volleyball, hiking trails, and so much more. I knew that this weekend was going to be a blast. I just couldn't wait to get out of the bus.
A few of the teachers introduced us to the people and they seemed very cool. I found myself talking about the Lord with them and they told me so much that I had not even known about. They told me all the different kind of activites that we would be doing. We would be going on a nature hike, we would be looking at the stars at night, and so much more.
After we all got settled into the several cabins they had, we were welcomed to all come to their main cabin to have a discussion about the Lord. We all sat around as one of the guys told us some very interesting things. I learned about The Book of Job (Jobe) for the first time in my life. It was very interesting how Job's family was all destroyed.
I remember hearing that the Devil made a pact with God that if he should loose all of his family he will curse God. Job continued to be obedient to the Lord, but not for long. Job finally lost it and started to curse God. I remember reading all the different things that he asked God. What was so awesome is what God said back to Job in return.
After we had a long discussion we were to go on a walk, we didn't bring any flashlights. What was neat is that they told us our eyes would adjust to the darkness. As we walked, it was easier to see where we were going. I thought to myself that everyday we walk in darkness, if we do not have the Lord we will miss our step and fall.
I thought, we are to reach out to the Lord, ask him to be with us and protect us from all harm. He will shine his light upon us and we will see clearly through the darkness.
We had a great time and soon we were walking back to the camp. The next day we were go to on a nature hike. This time we would each go our seperate ways. We would then come back to the camp after we have spent some time alone with the Lord.
Well, knowing how much I love to hike I started to go a little further than I should. To me it all started to look the same. The trees and the pinecones laying all over the ground were everywhere. I really enjoyed seeing all the different rocks that were sticking out of the ground. Anything to do with archeology interested me.
I was having so much fun, everything that I started to see was great. It was interesting to be alone and to talk with the Lord. However, I started to realize that I was probably going to get lost. Wait, I thought. I am lost. I looked around and nothing looked familiar.
I continued to walk thinking that I would find a way back to the church camp or at least the trail that led off into the wilderness. I tried to look for any kind of structure or house that might be near, but nothing. All I could see were trees in all directions.
At this point I started to worry, I didn't want to get lost and not have a way back. I don't know the first thing about surviving out in the wild. I knew that I would not even be able to make a fire. I wasn't what you would consider a good boy scout.
So I stopped and looked up and prayed with my arms stretched out. I said, Lord will you please help me. I don't know where I am. I need you to be with me. Please Oh Lord, will you show me the way back. I don't want to ask you for a sign, but I don't know what else to do.
I need you now Lord, please help me back. I don't want to get lost, especially when the temps at night are in the 30's. So I waited and started to walk hoping that I would find my way back.
I started to see an opening and I could see for miles and miles. All I could see were trees, and more trees. I was starting to get discouraged because it all looked the same. It was starting to upset me that I had to walk off and get myself lost. Of all the people, it had to be me. So then as I continued to look I saw something I was not expecting. It did get my attention really quick.
I saw a great big white cross sticking out of the trees. Of course I thought, I remember when we drove into the camp there was a great big white cross. I didn't even consider it coincidence. I knew that this was a sign from God. I said out loud Thank You Lord, Thank You so much! I was so happy, so amazed by what the Lord had done for me. I knew that I was safe, all I had to do was walk towards the cross and I would find myself walking back to the camp.
I walked and walked and then I started to recognize areas that I had been before, it was cool. I then noticed a bridge that I walked by and shortly after I started to walk back to the camp. The cool thing is that no one at the camp knew anything about what had happened that day. It was between me and God.
We all loaded our stuff on the bus and started to drive towards the church camp. I remember arriving and thinking, this place looks like a bunch of fun. There was volleyball, hiking trails, and so much more. I knew that this weekend was going to be a blast. I just couldn't wait to get out of the bus.
A few of the teachers introduced us to the people and they seemed very cool. I found myself talking about the Lord with them and they told me so much that I had not even known about. They told me all the different kind of activites that we would be doing. We would be going on a nature hike, we would be looking at the stars at night, and so much more.
After we all got settled into the several cabins they had, we were welcomed to all come to their main cabin to have a discussion about the Lord. We all sat around as one of the guys told us some very interesting things. I learned about The Book of Job (Jobe) for the first time in my life. It was very interesting how Job's family was all destroyed.
I remember hearing that the Devil made a pact with God that if he should loose all of his family he will curse God. Job continued to be obedient to the Lord, but not for long. Job finally lost it and started to curse God. I remember reading all the different things that he asked God. What was so awesome is what God said back to Job in return.
After we had a long discussion we were to go on a walk, we didn't bring any flashlights. What was neat is that they told us our eyes would adjust to the darkness. As we walked, it was easier to see where we were going. I thought to myself that everyday we walk in darkness, if we do not have the Lord we will miss our step and fall.
I thought, we are to reach out to the Lord, ask him to be with us and protect us from all harm. He will shine his light upon us and we will see clearly through the darkness.
We had a great time and soon we were walking back to the camp. The next day we were go to on a nature hike. This time we would each go our seperate ways. We would then come back to the camp after we have spent some time alone with the Lord.
Well, knowing how much I love to hike I started to go a little further than I should. To me it all started to look the same. The trees and the pinecones laying all over the ground were everywhere. I really enjoyed seeing all the different rocks that were sticking out of the ground. Anything to do with archeology interested me.
I was having so much fun, everything that I started to see was great. It was interesting to be alone and to talk with the Lord. However, I started to realize that I was probably going to get lost. Wait, I thought. I am lost. I looked around and nothing looked familiar.
I continued to walk thinking that I would find a way back to the church camp or at least the trail that led off into the wilderness. I tried to look for any kind of structure or house that might be near, but nothing. All I could see were trees in all directions.
At this point I started to worry, I didn't want to get lost and not have a way back. I don't know the first thing about surviving out in the wild. I knew that I would not even be able to make a fire. I wasn't what you would consider a good boy scout.
So I stopped and looked up and prayed with my arms stretched out. I said, Lord will you please help me. I don't know where I am. I need you to be with me. Please Oh Lord, will you show me the way back. I don't want to ask you for a sign, but I don't know what else to do.
I need you now Lord, please help me back. I don't want to get lost, especially when the temps at night are in the 30's. So I waited and started to walk hoping that I would find my way back.
I started to see an opening and I could see for miles and miles. All I could see were trees, and more trees. I was starting to get discouraged because it all looked the same. It was starting to upset me that I had to walk off and get myself lost. Of all the people, it had to be me. So then as I continued to look I saw something I was not expecting. It did get my attention really quick.
I saw a great big white cross sticking out of the trees. Of course I thought, I remember when we drove into the camp there was a great big white cross. I didn't even consider it coincidence. I knew that this was a sign from God. I said out loud Thank You Lord, Thank You so much! I was so happy, so amazed by what the Lord had done for me. I knew that I was safe, all I had to do was walk towards the cross and I would find myself walking back to the camp.
I walked and walked and then I started to recognize areas that I had been before, it was cool. I then noticed a bridge that I walked by and shortly after I started to walk back to the camp. The cool thing is that no one at the camp knew anything about what had happened that day. It was between me and God.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Faith
What is Faith? Is it the feeling deep down inside us that makes everything feel great.
Maybe it's the way we look at others, how we care about them and wish the best for them.
Faith to me is something more than just the feeling. It is so much more, it is a lifestyle for me. Everything that I am doing, everything that I am saying and every way I am living is based on Faith.
Faith surrounds us all, it's for us to take notice and grab ahold of it's awesome power. Do you know that so many millions of people do not have faith. Do you know that they go through their entire day, their entire lives without knowing Faith?
Do you know that so many of them say the Lords name in vain as if it was another part of their vocabulary. I say to you, what is wrong with these people who do such things? Do they not have a conscience, do they not realize what is going to happen to them if the Lord should appear tonight, tomorrow or the next day?
Like part of the saying goes, watch and pray because the time and the hour of the Lord is not known. Did you know that it isn't even known to the Lord. It is only God who knows the exact return of Jesus Christ.
So the next time that you catch yourself blaspheming his name, be careful. In the Bible it says that God will forgive you for every sin, but Blasphemy he will not forgive.
So remember, have Faith and live your day the way Jesus would.
Maybe it's the way we look at others, how we care about them and wish the best for them.
Faith to me is something more than just the feeling. It is so much more, it is a lifestyle for me. Everything that I am doing, everything that I am saying and every way I am living is based on Faith.
Faith surrounds us all, it's for us to take notice and grab ahold of it's awesome power. Do you know that so many millions of people do not have faith. Do you know that they go through their entire day, their entire lives without knowing Faith?
Do you know that so many of them say the Lords name in vain as if it was another part of their vocabulary. I say to you, what is wrong with these people who do such things? Do they not have a conscience, do they not realize what is going to happen to them if the Lord should appear tonight, tomorrow or the next day?
Like part of the saying goes, watch and pray because the time and the hour of the Lord is not known. Did you know that it isn't even known to the Lord. It is only God who knows the exact return of Jesus Christ.
So the next time that you catch yourself blaspheming his name, be careful. In the Bible it says that God will forgive you for every sin, but Blasphemy he will not forgive.
So remember, have Faith and live your day the way Jesus would.
A Dreary Day
It was a rainy afternoon, the clouds were covering any bit of sunshine that tried to break through. The television was blaring in the background, the mans dog sat up on the couch resting its head on the cushion. He looked out the window watching it rain as he didn't feel so great.
He was sad, his love for almost everything was no more. He started to wonder if anyone really cared about him anymore. He tried to tell himself many times that it was just all in his head. He even thought that maybe he could just shake off his problems.
It wasn't that simple as he walked towards the fridge, he grabbed anything and everything and started to eat. He could only satisfy his cravings, but even after that it didn't seem to help. He thought to himself, what is wrong with me? He knew that this was not normal for him.
He was angry at the world for rejecting him, for making fun of him. The truth was, the world had not rejected him, the world didn't hate him. It was all in his head and it would be a matter of time before he would come to his senses.
He walked towards the bathroom and opened the cupboard. He looked in and saw several different bottles, for the first time in his life he started to contemplate suicide. He knew that he couldn't take a knife and stab himself, he was not strong enough.
His alternative he thought was to take as many pills as he could and that would just take away the pain. He thought that he would no longer have to deal with the troubles that each day had to offer. He would no longer have to worry about those who would tease him and make fun of him. He would be free from it all, he knew that this was the only thing to do. Or was it he thought?
He stood there for a few minutes looking at that bottle, looking at the lable and trying to gain up enough courage to do something that he would soon regret. He started to take one pill, then two and then three. Eventually he started to take more, but he was starting to sob as he didn't know what he was doing.
He spit them out and fell to his knees. He was not strong enough to do such a thing, he knew how much he was in pain, but there was no reason to end it all. He would never see his family again, never see anyone that he loved again.
He knew he was having a bad day, he knew his troubles were great. He also knew that whatever was bothering him will soon come to pass. He grabbed that bottle, put the cap back on and put it back in the cupboard.
At this point he felt so bad for being so stupid. He sat down on the floor against the wall, his legs stretched out and his hands reaching up as high as they would go. He looked up towards the ceiling and started to speak.
"Why? , Why oh Lord do I suffer? Why does the world hate me and why do I feel this way? I don't know what to do, I truly don't. I can't seem to get this pain to go away no matter how much I try. I just want to be free of it all, I thought if I end it all that would be the best solution."
"I'm never happy anymore, I don't even like the things that I used to, what is wrong with me? Do you even exist? Are you there?"
He started to believe that there was no God because his problems had not been answered, he felt as if the Lord had abandoned him. He was in so much pain and couldn't stop crying. He reached for a kleenex and started to dab his eyes as he wiped away the tears.
"If you really do exist, why won't you show yourself?" Just then he heard a rumble of thunder that rocked the house. He stood up quickly and walked towards the living room. He looked out the window and there was no clouds. What the? he thought. He looked around to see some thunder clouds and there was none.
This truly freaked him out as he turned to go and look out the sliding glass door on the other side of the living room. He walked halfway towards the door and something even stranger happened. The television in the livingroom just turned on, he didn't remember touching the remote.
The last station he was on, was the cable music channel. The song that was starting to play really started to lift his spirits. He walked back to the living room and wrote down the artist and song. He loved the song so much, so he recorded it immediately and listened to it over and over. He wrote down Twila Paris "Days of Elijah."
He started to sing the lyrics which made him feel so good inside. He sang
Behold He Comes, Riding On The Clouds
Shining Like The Sun, At The Trumpet Call
So Lift Your Voice, It's The Year Of Jubilee
And Out Of Zions Hill, Salvation Comes
It was such an uplifting song that it made him feel great inside. He knew that something was definately wrong with him. It wasn't normal to be feeling so down all of the time. The inspirational music that he always listened to shouldn't be what cheers him up everytime, yes it's great to listen to, but he shouldn't have to rely on the music to bring him into a good mood. He thought that he should be happy all of the time.
He tried to figure it out, as he sat down grabbing the laptop he went to a website called WebMD. He looked at the website and before his very eyes was something he was not expecting. The website had a big advertizement about Depression. He started to read it and soon he found that most of the symptoms were ones that he has.
It was very strange, how thunder, then a song and now a website could reveal to him his problem. He first tried to dismiss it as a freak thundercloud that he couldn't see.
He thought that maybe one of the cats bumped the remote, that the music just happened to be one that he liked and it came on at the right time. The webpage was just an advertizement and that he was just making more out of nothing.
He knew that wasn't true, he knew exactly what someone was trying to do. He could feel the temptation of the devil trying to tell him that it was all in his head. You don't have a problem now do you? He could feel his presence trying to steer him away from God even further.
There was no way that he was going to let any temptations come in his way, he wasn't going to be a fool and he knew that these things that happened were a sign from God. He believed in them and he listened to what God had to say.
God was trying to get his attention through the thunder, the music was to bring his spirits back up and the website was to tell him that he did have a problem. He could feel God telling him that you are not alone, millions suffer from Depression and it's not something to be ashamed of.
He reached for the phone and called his doctor, he didn't want to put it off anymore or forget about it. This was something he didn't want to deal with anymore. He wanted help, he wanted to be happy and if it means getting something for his problems he was not afraid to do it.
Several months had passed, he was starting to feel great. He could feel the happiness returning in his life and he couldn't believe that he never thought of this sooner. Never again did the thought of suicide return and he looked back at the problems he had and learned from them. Each day was not going to be a cakewalk. He knew that there are going to be good days and bad days. He knew that in his bad days he would reach out to the Lord and the Lord would get him through it.
The next day he went to work and was talking with a coworker. He started to tell him about his experience, it was strange and at the same time it was very cool. He started to realize something.
He said, that everywhere around us are signs from Heaven. He told his friend that if you just take a little bit of your time to listen and pay attention to the little things you will see God working in your life. So many go through their lives not even taking notice to what God is doing.
He said, for example I was driving here and 3 out of the last four days a song started playing on the radio just as I pulled into the parking lot. It was that song God Will Take Care of You by Plumb. He heard it the first few days, but after he heard it again he knew that God was trying to reach out to him.
He thought that when we do bad or when we are not paying attention to God, he sends us signs trying to get our attention and bring us back to him. He also remembers working and when he would drop a fruit or vegetable by accident he would realize that it was bad. It's just that he didn't see it, it was also God's way of saying don't put it there, it's bad!
He knew of countless others that have happened to him, but he couldn't think of them all. He knew then that God was working 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week and was with us always. It is for us to acknowledge him and show him our devotion, then he will show us things we never dreamed of.
He was sad, his love for almost everything was no more. He started to wonder if anyone really cared about him anymore. He tried to tell himself many times that it was just all in his head. He even thought that maybe he could just shake off his problems.
It wasn't that simple as he walked towards the fridge, he grabbed anything and everything and started to eat. He could only satisfy his cravings, but even after that it didn't seem to help. He thought to himself, what is wrong with me? He knew that this was not normal for him.
He was angry at the world for rejecting him, for making fun of him. The truth was, the world had not rejected him, the world didn't hate him. It was all in his head and it would be a matter of time before he would come to his senses.
He walked towards the bathroom and opened the cupboard. He looked in and saw several different bottles, for the first time in his life he started to contemplate suicide. He knew that he couldn't take a knife and stab himself, he was not strong enough.
His alternative he thought was to take as many pills as he could and that would just take away the pain. He thought that he would no longer have to deal with the troubles that each day had to offer. He would no longer have to worry about those who would tease him and make fun of him. He would be free from it all, he knew that this was the only thing to do. Or was it he thought?
He stood there for a few minutes looking at that bottle, looking at the lable and trying to gain up enough courage to do something that he would soon regret. He started to take one pill, then two and then three. Eventually he started to take more, but he was starting to sob as he didn't know what he was doing.
He spit them out and fell to his knees. He was not strong enough to do such a thing, he knew how much he was in pain, but there was no reason to end it all. He would never see his family again, never see anyone that he loved again.
He knew he was having a bad day, he knew his troubles were great. He also knew that whatever was bothering him will soon come to pass. He grabbed that bottle, put the cap back on and put it back in the cupboard.
At this point he felt so bad for being so stupid. He sat down on the floor against the wall, his legs stretched out and his hands reaching up as high as they would go. He looked up towards the ceiling and started to speak.
"Why? , Why oh Lord do I suffer? Why does the world hate me and why do I feel this way? I don't know what to do, I truly don't. I can't seem to get this pain to go away no matter how much I try. I just want to be free of it all, I thought if I end it all that would be the best solution."
"I'm never happy anymore, I don't even like the things that I used to, what is wrong with me? Do you even exist? Are you there?"
He started to believe that there was no God because his problems had not been answered, he felt as if the Lord had abandoned him. He was in so much pain and couldn't stop crying. He reached for a kleenex and started to dab his eyes as he wiped away the tears.
"If you really do exist, why won't you show yourself?" Just then he heard a rumble of thunder that rocked the house. He stood up quickly and walked towards the living room. He looked out the window and there was no clouds. What the? he thought. He looked around to see some thunder clouds and there was none.
This truly freaked him out as he turned to go and look out the sliding glass door on the other side of the living room. He walked halfway towards the door and something even stranger happened. The television in the livingroom just turned on, he didn't remember touching the remote.
The last station he was on, was the cable music channel. The song that was starting to play really started to lift his spirits. He walked back to the living room and wrote down the artist and song. He loved the song so much, so he recorded it immediately and listened to it over and over. He wrote down Twila Paris "Days of Elijah."
He started to sing the lyrics which made him feel so good inside. He sang
Behold He Comes, Riding On The Clouds
Shining Like The Sun, At The Trumpet Call
So Lift Your Voice, It's The Year Of Jubilee
And Out Of Zions Hill, Salvation Comes
It was such an uplifting song that it made him feel great inside. He knew that something was definately wrong with him. It wasn't normal to be feeling so down all of the time. The inspirational music that he always listened to shouldn't be what cheers him up everytime, yes it's great to listen to, but he shouldn't have to rely on the music to bring him into a good mood. He thought that he should be happy all of the time.
He tried to figure it out, as he sat down grabbing the laptop he went to a website called WebMD. He looked at the website and before his very eyes was something he was not expecting. The website had a big advertizement about Depression. He started to read it and soon he found that most of the symptoms were ones that he has.
It was very strange, how thunder, then a song and now a website could reveal to him his problem. He first tried to dismiss it as a freak thundercloud that he couldn't see.
He thought that maybe one of the cats bumped the remote, that the music just happened to be one that he liked and it came on at the right time. The webpage was just an advertizement and that he was just making more out of nothing.
He knew that wasn't true, he knew exactly what someone was trying to do. He could feel the temptation of the devil trying to tell him that it was all in his head. You don't have a problem now do you? He could feel his presence trying to steer him away from God even further.
There was no way that he was going to let any temptations come in his way, he wasn't going to be a fool and he knew that these things that happened were a sign from God. He believed in them and he listened to what God had to say.
God was trying to get his attention through the thunder, the music was to bring his spirits back up and the website was to tell him that he did have a problem. He could feel God telling him that you are not alone, millions suffer from Depression and it's not something to be ashamed of.
He reached for the phone and called his doctor, he didn't want to put it off anymore or forget about it. This was something he didn't want to deal with anymore. He wanted help, he wanted to be happy and if it means getting something for his problems he was not afraid to do it.
Several months had passed, he was starting to feel great. He could feel the happiness returning in his life and he couldn't believe that he never thought of this sooner. Never again did the thought of suicide return and he looked back at the problems he had and learned from them. Each day was not going to be a cakewalk. He knew that there are going to be good days and bad days. He knew that in his bad days he would reach out to the Lord and the Lord would get him through it.
The next day he went to work and was talking with a coworker. He started to tell him about his experience, it was strange and at the same time it was very cool. He started to realize something.
He said, that everywhere around us are signs from Heaven. He told his friend that if you just take a little bit of your time to listen and pay attention to the little things you will see God working in your life. So many go through their lives not even taking notice to what God is doing.
He said, for example I was driving here and 3 out of the last four days a song started playing on the radio just as I pulled into the parking lot. It was that song God Will Take Care of You by Plumb. He heard it the first few days, but after he heard it again he knew that God was trying to reach out to him.
He thought that when we do bad or when we are not paying attention to God, he sends us signs trying to get our attention and bring us back to him. He also remembers working and when he would drop a fruit or vegetable by accident he would realize that it was bad. It's just that he didn't see it, it was also God's way of saying don't put it there, it's bad!
He knew of countless others that have happened to him, but he couldn't think of them all. He knew then that God was working 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week and was with us always. It is for us to acknowledge him and show him our devotion, then he will show us things we never dreamed of.
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