True spirituality helps you with life's challenges.
It is touching God and from that touch we long to touch mankind.
John Paul Jackson
It is touching God and from that touch we long to touch mankind.
John Paul Jackson
Monday, September 7, 2009
To Celebrate Growing Older :o)
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written.
My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone...
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first pay check.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or j
oyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else. 20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, and wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion, Today is special.
22. Over prepare, and then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple. 24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone and everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business. 30. Time heals almost everything. Give it time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood. 38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved. 39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come. 43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."
Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio
My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone...
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first pay check.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or j
oyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else. 20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, and wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion, Today is special.
22. Over prepare, and then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple. 24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone and everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business. 30. Time heals almost everything. Give it time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood. 38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved. 39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come. 43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."
Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio
Prayer Request
I wanted to share that I have just learned that a friend's dad was diagnosed with Cancer in his pancreas and Liver. It is terminal. If you could all please put her Dad, Fred Hulse and his wife Carol and Michele and their whole family in your prayers they would greatly appreciate it... Thank you so much.
Update:
I just wanted to share that Mr. Hulse passed away a week ago. The cancer was too severe for him to survive. Please continue to pray for his family as they deeply feel the loss of their loved one. Thank you!
Prayer Requests Always Welcome.
Update:
I just wanted to share that Mr. Hulse passed away a week ago. The cancer was too severe for him to survive. Please continue to pray for his family as they deeply feel the loss of their loved one. Thank you!
Prayer Requests Always Welcome.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
You Are A Beautiful Butterfly!
I have come across so many women and men that are going through trials lately. I wish I could hug them all and tell them that everything is going to be ok, but the fact is, sometimes things don't turn out the way that we hope they will.
But here is another perspective. Could it be possible that the trial you are going through might have a beautiful outcome? I know when we are in the midst of the pain that is not something we see or believe, and when we are in the midst of pain, we sometimes find ways to bypass it. Maybe we just stuff it deep down into our soul. Maybe we do absolutely nothing...but let it fester and grow and take a root of bitterness deep within.
Do you know the story of the butterfly?
But here is another perspective. Could it be possible that the trial you are going through might have a beautiful outcome? I know when we are in the midst of the pain that is not something we see or believe, and when we are in the midst of pain, we sometimes find ways to bypass it. Maybe we just stuff it deep down into our soul. Maybe we do absolutely nothing...but let it fester and grow and take a root of bitterness deep within.
Do you know the story of the butterfly?
There was once a man watching a butterfly working it's way out of it's cocoon. He watch intensely as this beautiful creature struggled so hard to work it's way out of it's sheath. He felt helpless for this poor little thing, surely he could help it along.
He pulled at the cocoon and helped the butterfly escape the grip of it's former home. The butterfly fell before him. He watched as it tried to open it's wings. The wing that the butterfly pushed through the cocoon opened beautifully. What a work of art this Godly creature was. But, the man noticed that the wing that he helped out of the cocoon did not open. The butterfly struggled helplessly, but he could not open this wing and lay there thrashing about, struggling, helpless, to no avail. He was crippled. What the man did not know was that the butterfly had to go through this process. The painful struggle of pushing it's way out of this cocoon. It is with this process that the butterfly becomes strong, that fluids push through it's body and wings, and where the creation of our God takes form. It is painful, but it is necessary. When a butterfly is able to work through this painful process by itself, it transforms into a gorgeous creation, almost artwork that God has gifted us with.
He pulled at the cocoon and helped the butterfly escape the grip of it's former home. The butterfly fell before him. He watched as it tried to open it's wings. The wing that the butterfly pushed through the cocoon opened beautifully. What a work of art this Godly creature was. But, the man noticed that the wing that he helped out of the cocoon did not open. The butterfly struggled helplessly, but he could not open this wing and lay there thrashing about, struggling, helpless, to no avail. He was crippled. What the man did not know was that the butterfly had to go through this process. The painful struggle of pushing it's way out of this cocoon. It is with this process that the butterfly becomes strong, that fluids push through it's body and wings, and where the creation of our God takes form. It is painful, but it is necessary. When a butterfly is able to work through this painful process by itself, it transforms into a gorgeous creation, almost artwork that God has gifted us with.
We are like butterflies. We have obstacles to overcome, that we need to "push" our way through. We can not take side steps or find that easy path if we want our trial, our journey to transform our life. With every trial there is an outcome. For children of God there is always beauty to behold in the near future. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow. But the beauty comes. And when it does, we realize that we needed to go through the painful process that now lays behind us, to make us the stronger person that we are today.
That is why we praise our Lord in all things...good and bad. If your heart is with God, truly with God, you will recognize the beauty that appears before. you.
That is why we praise our Lord in all things...good and bad. If your heart is with God, truly with God, you will recognize the beauty that appears before. you.
You are a beautiful creation. You are more than that, you are a child of our Lord. You are part of a bigger picture. You are a part of the family of God. Your life transforms... and will keep transforming. This is a promise!!! It just gets better!!
Philippians 1:3
3I thank my God every time I remember you. 4In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
A Woman of Strength
A strong woman works out every day to keep her body in shape, but ...
A woman of strength kneels in prayer to keep her soul in shape.
A strong woman isn't afraid of anything, but ...
A woman of strength shows courage in the midst of her fear.
A strong woman won't let anyone get the best of her, but ...
A woman of strength gives the best of her to everyone.
A strong woman makes mistakes and avoids the same in the future, but ...
A woman of strength realizes life's mistakes can also be God's blessings and capitalizes on them.
A strong woman walks surefootedly, but ...
A woman of strength knows God will catch her when she falls.
A strong woman wears the look of confidence on her face, but ...
A woman of strength wears grace.
A strong woman has faith that she is strong enough for the journey, but ...
A woman of strength has faith that in the journey she will become strong.
Isaiah 41:10"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God:I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold theewith the right hand of my righteousness.
http://www.my.homewithgod.com/mkcathy/inspirational/strength.html
A woman of strength kneels in prayer to keep her soul in shape.
A strong woman isn't afraid of anything, but ...
A woman of strength shows courage in the midst of her fear.
A strong woman won't let anyone get the best of her, but ...
A woman of strength gives the best of her to everyone.
A strong woman makes mistakes and avoids the same in the future, but ...
A woman of strength realizes life's mistakes can also be God's blessings and capitalizes on them.
A strong woman walks surefootedly, but ...
A woman of strength knows God will catch her when she falls.
A strong woman wears the look of confidence on her face, but ...
A woman of strength wears grace.
A strong woman has faith that she is strong enough for the journey, but ...
A woman of strength has faith that in the journey she will become strong.
Isaiah 41:10"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God:I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold theewith the right hand of my righteousness.
http://www.my.homewithgod.com/mkcathy/inspirational/strength.html
Sunday, August 30, 2009
My perspective...just a note.
It's after 12:00 am. and I am still here at my computer. People ask me why I am up so late so often. Well, Dave is still working on his sermon for the morning and I wait for him to finish. I have to admit, I can't always wait.. get too sleepy.
The life of a Pastor's Wife :o) .. I'm still getting used to it. At first I really fought it. I thought, I'm not good enough, outgoing enough, talented enough. I can't play piano and sing, You sometimes feel like you are under a microscope, and feel that you need to watch all you say and do. I realized that tonight when I was joking a bit, and it wasn't taken the way I intended. I just need to watch what I say.. Sometimes the old me creeps through a little bit. Or maybe I just needed a little more grace at that moment :o) ...
I'm not fighting it anymore. God has really put His Huge soft hands on my shoulders and has given me much comfort. In a time when anxiety should be expected, I am feeling good. I realized that I just can't stop conversing with Him. I need to talk to Him. The more that I do, the more I feel His presence in our lives. He is watching over our family.
He is also watching over so many people that have come to the effect. Whether they are there for a day, or they stay and become like family... We have been seeing beautiful transformations in people that warms our hearts and helps us to keep perspective of what we are doing and what we are involved it.
God truly makes plans for us. Sometimes we go unwittingly at first, but we find our place and He sends His comforter. He opens our eyes and hearts and minds to accept what we see and what we hear. His Grace has truly been the greatest thing we have witnessed since starting theeffect. He truly loves us all.
I have seen a transformation happening in our Pastor Dave over the years... a huge transformation. His life is devoted on teaching all about the Jesus he has learned about. The loving Father that never stops loving us. He preaches with a message of love, not fear. Because, God is love and casts out all fear. Instead of fear we have an immense awe of a creator that is beyond our comprehension...but we keep trying to comprehend. Dave studies continously. Prays continuously. We pray that he is a conduit of God's word to everyone he speaks to.
That's my little perspective for tonight. I'm getting a little sleepy. Can't hold out much longer. Guess I'll be going to bed with a book for a bit :o) ..
Good night all! Hope to see you in the morning!! Donuts are waiting! Lots of coffee for me!
The life of a Pastor's Wife :o) .. I'm still getting used to it. At first I really fought it. I thought, I'm not good enough, outgoing enough, talented enough. I can't play piano and sing, You sometimes feel like you are under a microscope, and feel that you need to watch all you say and do. I realized that tonight when I was joking a bit, and it wasn't taken the way I intended. I just need to watch what I say.. Sometimes the old me creeps through a little bit. Or maybe I just needed a little more grace at that moment :o) ...
I'm not fighting it anymore. God has really put His Huge soft hands on my shoulders and has given me much comfort. In a time when anxiety should be expected, I am feeling good. I realized that I just can't stop conversing with Him. I need to talk to Him. The more that I do, the more I feel His presence in our lives. He is watching over our family.
He is also watching over so many people that have come to the effect. Whether they are there for a day, or they stay and become like family... We have been seeing beautiful transformations in people that warms our hearts and helps us to keep perspective of what we are doing and what we are involved it.
God truly makes plans for us. Sometimes we go unwittingly at first, but we find our place and He sends His comforter. He opens our eyes and hearts and minds to accept what we see and what we hear. His Grace has truly been the greatest thing we have witnessed since starting theeffect. He truly loves us all.
I have seen a transformation happening in our Pastor Dave over the years... a huge transformation. His life is devoted on teaching all about the Jesus he has learned about. The loving Father that never stops loving us. He preaches with a message of love, not fear. Because, God is love and casts out all fear. Instead of fear we have an immense awe of a creator that is beyond our comprehension...but we keep trying to comprehend. Dave studies continously. Prays continuously. We pray that he is a conduit of God's word to everyone he speaks to.
That's my little perspective for tonight. I'm getting a little sleepy. Can't hold out much longer. Guess I'll be going to bed with a book for a bit :o) ..
Good night all! Hope to see you in the morning!! Donuts are waiting! Lots of coffee for me!
'To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.'
When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you,
but merely opening your hands to receive something better.
Concentrate on this sentence...
'The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you.'
Something good is always near...
When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you,
but merely opening your hands to receive something better.
Concentrate on this sentence...
'The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you.'
Something good is always near...
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Information for Women of Faith Event
From: Women of Faith
Date: 8/20/2009 3:09:21 AM
To: mbrisbin@cox.net
Subject: Before You Go...Information About A Grand New Day
If you're having trouble viewing this email, you may see it online.
Anaheim, CA
September 11 - 12, 2009 - Honda Center
5. IT’S NOT TOO LATE!
We still have seats available for your friends and family. Send them to womenoffaith.com or have them call 888-49-FAITH to register.
4. WHERE AND HOW MUCH?
Click here for a map, directions, parking prices, special needs, and more.
3. HUNGRY?
We’ll break for lunch at approximately:
Friday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Saturday: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Concessions will be open both days
Arenas generally do NOT allow any outside food or beverages. Some exceptions may be made for medical reasons. Check with the arena for details.
2. GET YOUR ZZZZZ’S
View a list of discounted hotels. You may not sleep much, but you’ll need a place to hang out with your friends
1. PLAN AHEAD
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. (You’ll probably climb stairs at some point.) Layers are always a good choice.
Say ‘No’ to bulky accessories. Security will search them and there’s no place to stash them anyway.
Pick a place (in advance!) to meet in case you get separated from your group.
Although outside beverages are prohibited, you can usually bring an empty water bottle and fill it at a water fountain inside.
Come expecting to have a grand time!
Women of Faith | 820 W. Spring Creek Pkwy. Suite 400 | Plano, TX 75023
This email was sent to mbrisbin@cox.net. To ensure that you continue receiving our emails, please add us to your address book or safe list.
manage your preferences | opt out using TrueRemove®.
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Date: 8/20/2009 3:09:21 AM
To: mbrisbin@cox.net
Subject: Before You Go...Information About A Grand New Day
If you're having trouble viewing this email, you may see it online.
Anaheim, CA
September 11 - 12, 2009 - Honda Center
5. IT’S NOT TOO LATE!
We still have seats available for your friends and family. Send them to womenoffaith.com or have them call 888-49-FAITH to register.
4. WHERE AND HOW MUCH?
Click here for a map, directions, parking prices, special needs, and more.
3. HUNGRY?
We’ll break for lunch at approximately:
Friday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Saturday: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Concessions will be open both days
Arenas generally do NOT allow any outside food or beverages. Some exceptions may be made for medical reasons. Check with the arena for details.
2. GET YOUR ZZZZZ’S
View a list of discounted hotels. You may not sleep much, but you’ll need a place to hang out with your friends
1. PLAN AHEAD
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. (You’ll probably climb stairs at some point.) Layers are always a good choice.
Say ‘No’ to bulky accessories. Security will search them and there’s no place to stash them anyway.
Pick a place (in advance!) to meet in case you get separated from your group.
Although outside beverages are prohibited, you can usually bring an empty water bottle and fill it at a water fountain inside.
Come expecting to have a grand time!
Women of Faith | 820 W. Spring Creek Pkwy. Suite 400 | Plano, TX 75023
This email was sent to mbrisbin@cox.net. To ensure that you continue receiving our emails, please add us to your address book or safe list.
manage your preferences | opt out using TrueRemove®.
Got this as a forward? Sign up to receive our future emails.
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Friday, August 7, 2009
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Does Your Faith Make You Feel Like This?
God wishes joy for our lives. If you are not experiencing joy, please seek God, please speak to a pastor. Our lives are meant to be lived fully. I pray that your hearts are filled with fullness of Spirit and an abundance of joy!God Bless You!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
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