Lisa Brewer Buffaloe
Lisa Buffaloe Blog Archive -- 2007
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Christmas is coming and we will celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. At His birth, light came to a dark world, Heaven sang, and captives were freed. Man found hope, new beginnings, restoration, joy, and redemption.
Words cannot adequately express my feelings for a God who would choose willingly to leave Heaven’s glories to take on the flesh of man, complete with all the pain of suffering of living in a fallen world. Why did He humble Himself to be born a pauper’s son? Why did He live for thirty-three years knowing every temptation and every heartache common to man? Why did He come to die for sinners?
What did He look like as a baby?
How did His laugh sound?
Did His snow angels sparkle?
Did puppies wag when He walked by and kittens purr?
Did trees long to bow at His feet?
Did hearts melt at His smile?
Above all, why did He choose me?
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You. Thank You for Your Son. Thank You, for Your unfailing love.
Thank You, Jesus for coming to earth. Thank You for calling to the lost and providing a way for us to come home. Thank You for every sacrifice You made. Happy Birthday, my precious Savior.
Watch and listen to the song, "Happy Birthday, Jesus"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8ouaWgUCNg
Merry Christmas!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
My white blood count (WBC) remains below normal at 3,900 (3.9). We are very grateful the numbers didn’t drop with all the Christmas parties and preparations. However, I was ready for a good, solid count in the normal range.
My sweet hubby had a phone interview yesterday, and I hoped the job would be the answer to our prayers. It wasn’t. I must admit, I’m disappointed. I was planning on being healed and my husband settled again with a good job.
There are so many people going through much worse and they cry out with heart-breaking pleas. Life is full of pain and suffering, but one thing never changes and always remains—God is still God, He remains in control, and His truth remains.
He is The Great Physician and The Healer.
He is the lover of our souls.
Through Him, our help and answers will come.
He will never leave us or forsake us.
His love never fails.
He covers us and under His wings we find refuge.
He provides for our every need.
His love never fails.
His mercies never end.
His grace covers all.
He is still God.
You are Still God
By Scott Krippayne
“I've prayed but still don't have answers
At least none I'm able to see
I've tried to rest in not knowing
But not knowing’s a hard place to be
But as I return to Your pages
The words breathe new life to my soul
I see You at work through the ages
And know that You're still in control
You are still God
You have created the land and the sea
May we applaud
And sing to the wonder of Your majesty
The wind will still blow
We won't always know
Why seasons of life are so hard
But You are still God
Help me have faith in the knowledge
That You're greater than what we go through
And when I reside in the valleys
Help me keep trusting in You
The how and the when You are moving
Were not meant for me to decide
Again and again You are proving
You're there at just the right time
You are still God
You have created the land and the sea
May we applaud
And sing to the wonder of Your majesty
The wind will still blow
We won't always know
Why seasons of life are so hard
But You are still God”
Lyrics used by Permission
Words and Music by Scott Krippayne
Album “It Goes Like This,” Spring Hill Music Group,
(You can listen to Scott's song by visiting his site at… http://www.scottkrippayne.com/music.htm)
Saturday, December 15, 2007
“Suffering is trying and difficult to bear but hiding just below its surface is discipline, knowledge and limitless possibilities. Each of these not only strengthens and matures us but also equips us to help others.”
L. B. Cowman, Streams in the Desert, Zondervan,
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
“Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17 NIV.)
“The question is often asked, ‘Why is human life drenched in so much blood and soaked with so many tears?’ The answer is found in the word ‘achieving,’ for these ‘momentary troubles are achieving for us’ something very precious. They are teaching us not only the way to victory but, better still, the law of victory—there is a reward for every sorrow, and the sorrow itself produces the reward.”
L. B. Cowman, Streams In The Desert, (
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:2-4 NIV).
Thursday, December 6, 2007
“Pray and never faint, is the motto Christ gives us for praying. It is the test of our faith, and the more severe the trail and the longer the waiting, the more glorious the results.” E.M. Bounds
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
I’ve been on my knees begging God to help me learn to write in excellence, to bring Him glory and honor. The words from Todd Agnew’s song “This Fragile Breath” from his Grace Like Rain album, gives voice to my feelings.
This Fragile Breath
By Todd Agnew www.ToddAgnew.com
"I searched the world for a song that I could sing
Praise to my King
A gift that I could bring
But no music I found could compare to You
Not one could do justice to Your glory
What are my songs compared to Yours
You speak with thunder and lightening
Your voice shakes the mountains
The foundations of the earth
All I can offer is this fragile breath
With each one I’ll praise You
With each one I'll praise You more
I searched the world for a poem I could read
A rhyme that would bring Glory to my King
But no writing I found was worthy of
This God high above all other gods
What are my words compared to Yours
You speak with thunder and lightning
Your voice shakes the mountains
The foundations of the earth
All I can offer is this fragile breath
With each one I'll praise You
With each one I'll praise You more
Speak to me, speak to me please
Won't You speak to me
You speak with thunder and lightning
Your voice shakes the mountains
The foundations of the earth
All I can offer is this fragile breath
With each one I'll praise You
With each one I'll praise You more"
Dear Heavenly Father,
Nothing I have compares to You. Speak to me, please speak to me, show me, teach me, make Your desires my desires. Show me how to minister in Your name that others may know Your grace, salvation, glory, freedom, abounding and everlasting love. Sweet, precious Father, I offer my every breath to You. And with each breath, I’ll praise You more.
“Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD”
(Ps 150:6 NIV).
Monday, December 3, 2007
Last week was tough physically, my white counts remained low, my energy even lower. The layoff date looms ahead for my sweet hubby, and we wonder where and when the door will open for another job.
I try not to worry. Unfortunately, I’m not always diligent and my focus lingers on the problems of today instead of God and His might and power.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Help me to cast my burdens upon You. Keep my eyes focused on Your strength and power. Forgive me when I stray. Thank You that Your shoulders are broad and You are big enough for anything and everything that comes our way. Help me to choose the joy You freely give, even in the midst of trials.
Father, thank You that my healing will come, the job for my sweet husband will come in Your perfect timing. Thank You that You have the solution for every problem. Help me to wait patiently with great expectations for You are my deliverer. Forgive me for worrying. Forgive me for being weak. Help me to stand straight, tall, and proud in the safety of Your love. I love You forever, Father.
In the name of Your Precious Son, Jesus Christ, who is my Savior, Redeemer, Restorer, and friend.
Amen
“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Mt 11:29-30 NIV).
Saturday, December 1, 2007
We have a winner!
The cyber-band is playing! The fans are cheering!
Jeannie is the winner of November's giveaway!
Congratulations Jeannie!!!
Thursday, November 29, 2007
“Trust God’s Word and His power more than you trust your own feelings and experiences. Remember, your Rock is Christ, and it is the sea that ebbs and flows with the tides, not Him.” Samuel Rutherford
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
“… When I am loving others with Christ’s love, I don’t have to fear rejection or even being hurt by another. I am not the one being rejected—it is Christ. Nor do I have to fear depletion of that love as long as I’m resting and refilling… I am free to love passionately, to give joyfully, in spite of the possibility of pain in the offering, because it is Christ’s love. And it is his love to which they will respond. Not mine. So when I love freely, live freely, then Christ is loving and living through me, and others she his beauty. God longs and intends to love others through the beauty of our loving.” Jane Rubietta,
Monday, November 26, 2007
“Every time we pray our horizon is altered, our attitude to things is altered, not sometimes but every time, and the amazing thing is that we don’t pray more.” Oswald Chambers.
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests...”
(Eph 6:18 NIV).
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Please pray. Pray for one another. Pray for those you love. Pray for those who you meet in your daily walk. Pray without ceasing. Pray with thanksgiving that God hears our prayers, and we can approach the throne of grace with every need. Prayers have merit in battles that rage in the spiritual realm. “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective” (James 5:16 NIV).
Throughout the day, and many times in the middle of the night, I pray for those who are in need of God’s heavenly touch. I know firsthand how much it means to know others are praying.
Although I do not know either of these women personally, below are links to two sites that I frequent. Both ladies are going through incredibly difficult times. Please join me in lifting them and their families in prayer.
Kristy Dykes… http://www.christianlovestories.blogspot.com/
Charity George… www.charitygeorge.com
Thank you for "praying them through."
In Christ’s Love,
Lisa
Thursday, November 15, 2007
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Mt 11:28 NIV).
“We cry through our prayers, and pray through our tears, and God waters the desert soil of our heart. …Deep, quiet prayer before God brings rest unlike any other discipline. In silence, when we offer God our baggage—the anxious longing and fears and tears and all other heart-weights—we transfer the burden to the One who intended all along to bear it.” Jane Rubietta
Jane Rubietta,
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
“Prayer in its highest form and grandest success assumes the attitude of a wrestler with God. It is the contest, trial, and victory of faith; a victory not secured from an enemy, but from Him who tries our faith that He may enlarge it; that tests our strength to make us stronger.” E.M. Bounds
Monday, November 12, 2007
“In my deepest wound,
I saw Your glory and it dazzled me.”
Friday, November 9, 2007
“God is waiting for us to come to Him in prayer, asking for all He wants to give us. He is waiting to lavish on us everything we could ever need or want. In His Word He offers us the riches of wisdom, truth, hope, and understanding. And in His Son He has poured out His love and grace in such abundance that our hearts will never be able to contain it. What joy, peace, power, and victory are available to us if only we will ask Him.” Stormie Omartian
“… the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places” (Eph 1:17-20 NASB).
*Stormie Omartian, The Power of a Praying Woman Workbook, (Sampson Resources,
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Much has happened in the last several days. Friday, my sweet hubby was notified his job will end on January 4th. Our job situation made me hesitant to spend the money to fly to see my Lyme doctor. I wondered if should get off antibiotics. Unfortunately, any time in the past I’ve gotten off medications my health failed.
My Lyme doctor was out of town and my antibiotic prescription was running out. Not wanting to take matters in my own hands, I prayed and asked God if He wanted me to continue on treatments that my doctor would call.
Sunday afternoon, the drug store notified me my prescription was ready. Sure enough, my doctor had called in a supply of antibiotics. God again answered my prayers and met me at my point of need.
Tuesday, is my normal day for my weekly blood draw. I've been on constant monitoring since April and treated for several years. I am blessed with wonderful nurses and staff at the doctor’s office (waving to Robin, Janice, Jack and the others.) Since I am off malaria medication and only on antibiotics, I was told I can now go in every other week instead of every week. I'm sooooo excited!!! I have next Tuesday morning free!
To top off this week, Thursday afternoon my white count went up to 4.3!
Even though I haven't had my healing, God remains faithful. My healing will come in His way and His timing. Even though we don’t know what the future holds for my husband and work, we know God will take care of us. He will provide for all our needs.
Praising Him!
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph 3:20-21 NIV).
Friday, November 2, 2007
“Before you were born, you existed in the mind of God. He decided that the world needed you at a certain time—that there is something for you to do that is different from what any other person will do. Everything God made has its own peculiar identity. There are billions of blades of grass, but no two alike. No two snowflakes have ever been identical. No person who ever existed is exactly like you. Even the print of your little finger is separate and distinct. It should lift you to a new realization of importance to know that of all the billions of people the earth has known, there is only one of you.”
Charles L. Allen
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13 NIV).
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Woo Hoo! Time to Celebrate!
Drum roll please…
The cyber-band plays, cyber-fireworks explode in cyber-space.
We have a winner for the October giveaway!
Congratulations Kathleen!
Snoopy dancing in your honor!
Special thanks to all who registered.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
This afternoon I received word that my weekly blood draw showed my white blood count dropped from 4.1 to 3.8, and my neutrophil count dropped from 2.5 to 2.1. I must admit being disappointed. I was ready to receive word that all my counts were normal and that healing had taken place.
God continues to give me strength and protection. Even with my white count so low, I have had few problems with infections or additional illness. For at least seven years Lyme disease has attacked. I’ve had some really rough days, weeks, months, and years.
My counts may dip and rise but God will never change. His love and power are constant. Blessed be His name. Praising Him for who He is!
“He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken” (Psalm 62:2 NIV).
Monday, October 22, 2007
“Jesus spoke about how prayer can remove mountains. However, we need to remember there are two ways by which a mountain can cease to block our paths. One way is to move it. The other is to develop strength to walk over the top of the mountain and keep going. In answer to our prayers, sometimes God takes away our handicaps, at other times He gives us the strength to keep going in spite of what has happened.” Charles L. Allen
“I can do everything through Him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13 NIV).
Friday, October 19, 2007
“Prayer is the easiest and hardest of all things; the simplest and the sublimest; the weakest and the most powerful; its results lie outside the range of human possibilities—they are limited only by the omnipotence of God.”
E.M. Bounds
“For nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37 NIV).
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
“Nothing is so blessed as quiet, unbroken communication with our Lord. The sense of the Lord’s nearness, which then fills our souls, is greater than any other peace, joy, inner satisfaction, or security which we have known.” O. Hallesby
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8 NASB).
Monday, October 15, 2007
“Let us be like a bird for a moment perched on a frail branch when he sings; though he feels it bend, yet he sings his song, knowing that he has wings.” —Victor Hugo
I will rejoice in the Lord even though…
My illness continues and my white count refuses to rise to a normal level. Praise the Lord He gives me strength for each day.
My husband will soon be laid off and has no job in sight. Praise the Lord that his employment continues for at least another month.
Other family problems still have no answer and my heart breaks and my spiritual knees stay raw. Praise God that He is always in control, and nothing is impossible with Him.
When terrible memories torment from the past, praise God that I can run to Him for protection and restoration.
When failures and inadequacies become evident, praise God that He works within to bring me to His final perfection.
“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior” (Habakkuk 3:17-18 NIV).
No matter what our past has been, no matter what today may hold—Praise God. Praise Him for He knows every situation, He knows every need, and He will always, always be faithful.
“Because You are my help, I sing in the shadow of Your wings” (Psalm 63:7 NIV).
“A friend is one to whom one may pour out all the content of one’s heart, chaff and grain together, knowing that gentle hands will take and sift it, keep what is worth keeping, and with a breath of kindness, blow the rest away.” George Eliot
I think of my friends, near and far, and those who cross my path through the internet. More importantly, I think of God who knows my every thought and action, every failure and sin, and still offers me His grace, mercy, and forgiveness. I am forever grateful, humbled, and amazed for His constant unending, ultimate friendship.
“You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you” (John 15:14-15).
Friday, October 12, 2007
“We can do nothing without prayer. All things can be done by importunate (persistent) prayer. It surmounts or removes all obstacles, overcomes every resisting force, and gains its ends in the face of invincible hindrances.” E.M. Bounds
“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Two children were baptized in our church last Sunday morning. During the baptism, friends and families are invited to stand in their honor. The two rows in front of us stood, including three young girls probably no older than three or four. The girls watched with great anticipation, tiny hands clasped to hold in their excitement as the preacher explained who was being baptized and their faith walk. Then, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, the preacher immersed each child.
Much to the delight of those of us close enough to watch, the little girls clapped, jumped up and down, and squealed in glee. I couldn’t help wondering if the angels in Heaven were doing the same. “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:10 NIV).
I want to be like those little girls, living a life full of joy. I want to be like our dog who cranes to stick his head out of the car window and wags as he goes through life. I want to walk with childlike faith knowing everything will be okay because God is in control.
Though His Precious Son, Jesus, He is the One who takes a sinner and makes them whole. He takes the past and renews and restores. He gives hope for the future. In Him, we find joy for today and tomorrow.
Oh Father, help me always choose joy.
Woo hoo! Rejoicing forever in Him,
Lisa
“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you” (Psalm 5:11 NIV).
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4 NIV).
Friday, October 5, 2007
Various colors, sizes, and shapes of etched and broken glass litter the table. Each piece different, some jagged, others veined, streaked, delicate, or marbled.
The artist carefully grinds each one until smooth, and then presses copper foil against the edges. He places each piece in His lovingly created design, then heating them until all become one.
He holds up His unique and priceless creation. The light shines through, and what was once broken, becomes beautiful.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)
Broken Into Beautiful
Gwen Smith/Sue Smith/Chad Cates
She's smiling on the outside
But she's hurting on the inside
It's getting hard just living anymore
And the shadows she has clung to
Painful things that she has been through
Have left her feeling worthless, Lord... but
You change worthless into precious
Guilty to forgiven
Hungry into satisfied
Empty into full
All the lies are shattered
And we believe we matter
When You change broken into beautiful
We live with accusations
Sometimes heavy expectations
That tell us we can never measure up
And yet You repeat with mercy
That in your eyes we are worthy
At last we see how much we're loved cause
You change worthless into precious
Guilty to forgiven
Hungry into satisfied
Empty into full
All the lies are shattered
And we believe we matter
When You change broken into beautiful
Though we can't see how we can stand before you Lord
And feel valued, priceless and adored
Song lyrics used by Permission Thank you, Gwen Smith!
Copyright… Sunday Best Music / (ASCAP) New Spring, a division of Zomba Enterprises, Inc. (ASCAP) / CCTB Music (ASCAP) All rights OBO CCTB. Music administered by New Spring Song lyrics used by permission.
Please listen to this beautiful song, either on YouTube or through Gwen Smith’s MySpace site.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDPEOAXTthI
http://www.myspace.com/gwensmithmusic
Monday, October 1, 2007
Time to Celebrate!
The cyber-band plays, cyber-fireworks explode in cyber-space.
We have a winner for September!
Congratulations Melody!
Special thanks to all who registered.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
“But faith will find its strength, not in the thought of what you will or do, but in the unchanging faithfulness and love of Christ, who has assured you, once again that those who wait on Him what not be ashamed.” A. Murray
"Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the skies” (Psalm 36:5 NIV).
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
“To pray is nothing more than to open the door, giving Jesus access to our needs and permitting Him to exercise His own power in dealing with them.” O. Hallesby
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14 NIV).
Monday, September 24, 2007
“Walking with God down the avenues of prayer we acquire something of His likeness, and unconsciously we become witnesses to others of His beauty and His grace.” E.M. Bounds
Sunday, September 23, 2007
“So many of us limit our praying because we are not reckless in our confidence of God. In the eyes of those who do not know God, it is madness to trust Him, but when we pray in the Holy Ghost we begin to realize the resources of God, that He is our perfect heavenly Father, and we are His children.” Oswald Chambers
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests…” (Ephesians 6:18 NIV).
Monday, September 17, 2007
“Like art, like music, like so many other disciplines, prayer can only be appreciated when you actually spend time in it. Spending time with the Master will elevate your thinking. The more you pray, the more will be revealed. You will appreciate not only the greatness of prayer, but the greatness of God.” Joni Eareckson Tada
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
“My helpless friend, your helplessness is the most powerful plea which rises up to the tender father-heart of God. You think that everything is closed to you because you cannot pray. My friend, your helplessness is the very essence of prayer.” O. Hallesby
“So too the Holy Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf with unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for utterance” (Romans 8:26 AMP).
6:10 am cdt
Monday, September 10, 2007
Jesus “…asked his father, ‘How long has this been happening to him?’ And he said, ‘From childhood. It has often thrown him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us!’ And Jesus said to him, ‘If You can?’ All things are possible to him who believes.’ Immediately the boy’s father cried out and said, ‘I do believe; help my unbelief’” (Mark 9:21-24 NASB).
“Faith is unturnable trust in God, trust which never dreams that He will not stand by us.” Oswald Chambers
Saturday, September 8, 2007
“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; He gently leads those that have young”
(Isaiah 40:11 NIV).
I love this verse for many different reasons. What a beautiful picture of our loving God. Not only does He keep us safe and close, He is gentle with those who are with young. What comfort to know He specializes in personal attention.
You are in His arms and close to His heart. Enjoy your Heavenly Hug.
A Big Heavenly Hug, just for you!
Friday, September 7, 2007
Every one of you is special. Just think, God made each of us unique. No two are alike, and each one created by a loving God.
Many blessings my friends, you are loved.
Lisa
“The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness”
(Jeremiah 31:3 NIV).
Monday, September 3, 2007
"The full flood of my life is not in bodily health, not in external happenings, not in seeing God's work succeed, but in the perfect understanding of God, and in the communion with Him that Jesus Himself had." Oswald Chambers
“For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known”
Sunday, September 2, 2007
“Faith must be tested, because it can be turned into a personal possession only through conflict.” Oswald Chambers
“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4 NASB).
Sunday, August 26, 2007
“Prayer does not mean simply to pour out one’s heart. It means rather to find the way to God and to speak with Him, whether the heart is full or empty. No man can do that by himself. For that he needs Jesus Christ.” D. Bonhoffer
“Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16 NASB).
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Day 125 on IV antibiotics
I received word today that my white count had dropped again dramatically—from 4,300 two weeks ago, 4,100 last week, and now this week I’m at 3,400 Argh! I need to be 5,000 to be on the low end of normal. Bummer.
I must admit to being a tad disappointed. As those counts rose, I could see myself untethered from my IV ball and running free. But the answer is…. Not yet.
My husband will be laid off in a few months and no job is in sight. We don’t know where we will be living or what God has in store. Our son starts his sophomore year of high school unsure if he will make it through the year. Fortunately, he is fine with moving.
There are so many times, I’ve wanted answers, wanted to see the solutions, wanted health, and the answer has been…. Not yet.
But in every instance and every circumstance, God has been faithful. God has given strength, energy, and hope. He provides for every need. I’m always safe in His arms.
“I waited patiently for the LORD. He turned to me and heard my cry”
(Psalm 40:1).
“Prayer is an all-efficient panoply, a treasure undiminished, a mine which is never exhausted, a sky unobscured by clouds, a heaven unruffled by the storm. It is the root, the fountain, the mother of a thousand blessings.” Chrysostom
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
"Prayer can do anything that God can do." E.M. Bounds
"With God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26 NIV)
Friday, August 10, 2007
I’m almost normal!!!
My white blood count has hovered for months in the low 3000’s and finally this last month started climbing. Major, major praise!
I’m almost normal. Okay, my blood work is looking almost normal, not sure about the rest of me. But that means my body is getting where it can fight infection. Woo hoo! Thank you for your prayers. God is soooo good!
Thank You Heavenly Father for this positive sign. Thank You that You are always working in and around us. Thank You when our eyes are opened and we can see clearly. Father, I praise You whether this good health is permanent or temporary because no matter what tomorrow holds, I’m always, always safe in Your arms. I love You Father, now and forever.
Amen
Praise the LORD. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise Him! (Psalm 147:1 NIV).
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
"The idea of prayer is not in order to get answers from God; prayer is perfect and complete oneness with God. If we pray because we want answers, we will get huffed with God. The answers come every time, but not always in the way we expect, and our spiritual huff shows a refusal to identify ourselves with Our Lord in prayer. We are not here to prove God answers prayer; we are here to be living monuments of God's grace." Oswald Chambers
Monday, August 6, 2007
We traveled to visit my family this weekend. On the way, I got so ill we had to pull to the side of the road.
I’ll be honest, there are times I would rather not admit I have bad days. The enemy whispers to keep quiet and be ashamed of what others have done to me, the mistakes I have made, or the illness I continue to fight.
However, if I chose to hide those facts, I am also hiding what God has done and is doing. Everything that is and was allowed in my life, can and will be used for His glory and honor--if I allow.
He gives me strength for each day, He provides healing, He removes the stain of sin, He heals my wounds, and He is sufficient. "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. ...because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him for that day" (2 Cor 4:8-9, 2 Tim 1:12 NIV).
I'm so grateful for God. I couldn't make it a moment without Him.
“But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me” (2 Co 12:9 NIV).
Praising Him forever!
Friday, August 3, 2007
“Embrace this God-life. Really embrace it, and nothing will be too much for you… That’s why I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you’ll get God’s everything.” (Mark 11:22-24 MSG).
“To pray is to open our hearts to Jesus. And Jesus is all that we sinners need both for time and eternity.” O. Hallesby
“Prayer is the creator as well as the channel of devotion. The spirit of devotion is the spirit of prayer. Prayer and devotion are united as soul and body are united, as life and the heart are united. There is no real prayer without devotion, no devotion without prayer.” E. M. Bounds
“Never pray for an easier life—pray to be a stronger person! Never pray for tasks equal to your power—pray for power equal to your tasks. Then doing your work will be no miracle—you be the miracle.” Phillips Brooks
“It is true that the mightiest successes that come to God’s cause are created and carried on by prayer. God’s day of power; the angelic days of activity and power are when God’s Church comes into its mightiest inheritance of mightiest faith and mightiest prayer.” E. M. Bounds
“Prayer is no petty duty, put into a corner; no piecemeal performance made out of the fragments of time which have been snatched from business and other engagements of life; but it means that the best of our time, the heart of our tie and strength must be given. … It must enter as strongly into the heart and life as Christ’s strong crying and tears: did; must draw out the soul into an agony of desire as Paul’s did; must be an inwrought fire and force life the effectual, fervent prayer of James; must be of that quality which when put into the golden censer and incensed before God, works mighty spiritual throes and revolutions.” E. M. Bounds
“Lord, let the pillar of cloud and fire go before me, for I am determined with full purpose of heart to follow it and thus wait on my God all the day.” Matthew Henry
“Talking to men for God is a great thing, but taking to God for men is greater still.” E. M. Bounds
“It was heart that drew the Son of God from heaven. It is heart that will draw men to heaven.” E. M. Bounds
“Prayer is the first thing, the second thing, the third, thing necessary to a minister. Pray, then, my dear brother; pray, pray, pray.” Edward Payson
Most E.M. Bounds quotes from “Power through Prayer” Baker books,
Thursday, August 2, 2007
“When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.’ Simon answered, ‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets’” (Luke 5:4-5 NIV).
This verse caught my attention this morning. I want to dive deep with my Savior but often I feel trapped on the surface wearing a swim vest and water wings. An elephant could sit on my back and I’d still float.
Maybe that’s the problem; I’ve got to get rid of any preconceived notions of my relationship with God. He doesn’t move and who He is never changes. I need to see what He is doing today, right now, and follow His leading. Simon didn’t believe, but he was obedient.
That’s it! All I have to do is be obedient--no matter where I think I am in my experience with Him.
Whether I’m exploring the bottom and the mighty depths of His presence, or swimming on the surface with the sun at my back and the beauty below. Woo hoo! Swimming with my Savior. I couldn’t be in a better place.
Dive in my friends, the water is fine.
Heavenly Father, help me to always be obedient. Thank You for showing me again today how to enjoy You— no matter where I am.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
The cyber-band is playing and cyber-fireworks are exploding in the air!
Miss Bookworm has won the July Contest!!
Congratulations my ShoutLife friend!
Monday, July 30, 2007
“Our trials are great opportunities, but all too often we simply see them as large obstacles. If only we would recognize every difficult situation as something God has chosen to prove His love to us, each obstacle would then become a place of shelter and rest, and a demonstration to others of his inexpressible power. If we would look for the signs of His glorious handiwork, then every cloud would indeed become a rainbow, and every difficult mountain path would become one of ascension, transformation, and glorification.
If we would look at our past, most of us would realize that the times we endured the greatest stress and felt that every path was blocked were the very times our heavenly Father chose to do the kindest things for us and bestow His richest blessings.
God’s most beautiful jewels are often delivered in rough packages by very difficult people, but within the package we will find the very treasures of the King’s palace and the Bridegroom’s love.” A. B. Simpson, Streams in the Desert
Saturday, July 28, 2007
“To say prayers in a decent, delicate way is not heavy work. But to pray really, to pray till hell feels the ponderous stroke, to pray till the iron gates of difficulty are opened, till the mountains of obstacles are removed, till the mists are exhaled and the clouds are lifted, and the sunshine of cloudless day brightens—this is hard work, but it is God’s work and man’s best labor.”
E.M. Bounds
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Max Lucado wrote… “As a young man I felt the call to preach. Unsure if I was correct in my reading of God’s will for me, I sought the counsel of a minister I admired. His counsel still rings true. ‘Don’t preach,’ he said, ‘unless you have to.’ As I pondered his words I found my answer: ‘I have to. If I don’t, the fire will consume me.’ What is the fire that consumes you?”
Max Lucado, Grace for the Moment, pg 129, April 20th
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
I don’t want freeway Christianity with breakneck speeds, over the shoulder prayers, and busyness of life that keeps my eyes on the world and off God’s sufficiency.
I want to dive deep in His word and mine the treasure of truths waiting to be discovered. I want to sing His praises. I want to study the additional facets radiating from my Savior when I meet those who love and serve Him. I long to point the lost to The One who brings salvation, hope, and healing.
I don’t want to waste a moment of time with my Savior and God. I want His total, encompassing presence. I want to grow and learn each day, steeping within Him. I want to feel, touch, and experience life in the fullest for His glory.
Oh precious Father, make me wholly Yours.
“One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek Him in His temple” (Psalm 27:4 NIV).
"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song" (Ps 28:7 NIV).
Woo hoo! Today is day ninety-four of the IV antibiotics and day eleven for the 24/7 penicillin infusion. I am feeling good! I have enough energy to make it through the day and even do a few things around the house, and the numbness on my face is better. The doctor is concerned about my low white blood cell count but not enough to take major action. Woo hoo! I’m feeling good.
“My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I, whom you have redeemed” (Psalm 71:23 NIV).
Praising, singing, and forever grateful for my Savior and Lord.
Blessings my friends,
Lisa
Friday, July 20, 2007
“My determined purpose is that I may know Him. That I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His person more strongly and more clearly, and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection which it exerts over believers, and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed in spirit into His likeness even to His death” (Philippians 3:10 AMP).
Thursday, July 19, 2007
“God has nothing worth having that is easily gained,
for there are no cheap goods on the heavenly market. The cost of our redemption was everything God had to give,
and anything worth having is expensive.
Difficult times and places are our schools of faith and character.
If we are ever to rise above mere human strength, and experience the power of the life of Christ in our mortal bodies, it will be through the process of conflict that could very well be called the ‘labor pains’ of the new life.” June 29th Streams in the Desert
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
“We have to pray with our eyes on God, not on the difficulties.” Oswald Chambers
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Cor 4:18 NIV).
Monday, July 16, 2007
“Trials and difficult times are needed to press us forward. They work in the way the fire in the hold of a mighty steamship provides the energy that moves the pistons, turns the engine, and propels the great vessel across the sea, even when facing the wind and the waves.”
A. B. Simpson
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:2-4 NIV).
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Tuesday my doctors switched my IV antibiotics to penicillin which now pulses through my veins twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. I’m so tired. There are days this ongoing battle wears me down. Without God’s strength and love I wouldn’t survive.
However, with Him…. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength, for all things are possible with God. The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation. When anxiety was great within me, His consolation brought joy to my soul. The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song.
I will consider it pure joy, when I face trials of many kinds, because the Sovereign Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to go on the heights. He will cover me with His feathers, and under His wings I find refuge; His faithfulness will be my shield and rampart. For, those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. Let all who take refuge in You be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread Your protection over them, that those who love Your name may rejoice in You.
To Him who is able to keep me from falling and to present me before His glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
I feel better already!
Blessings my friends,
Lisa
Ph 4:13, Mk 10:27, Ps 118:14, Ps 94:19, Ps 28:7, Jas 1:2, Hab 3:19, Ps 91:4, Ps 126:5, Ps 28:7, Ps 5:11, Jude 1:24-25
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
God delights in His children. The God of the universe, the maker of Heaven and earth, delights in you. Marvel on that thought today. You are loved!
“For the LORD takes delight in His people; He crowns the humble with salvation” (Psalm 149:4 NIV).
“The LORD your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with his love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17 NIV).
Wednesday, July 4, 2007