Christmas Gift

The Gift of Christmas


This morning I was reflecting on our sermon at church. It focused on gift giving and
What that looks like as a believer.

In the past I have always tried to get my children anything and everything on their list.
I felt I was doing my best at making them “happy”. Now as I think about this Christmas
the perfect gift I could give, it becomes much more important.

This holiday season I pray that the gift I’m able to at least show my family would be the amazing gift of salvation. That somehow they will see Christ in me.
Luke 1:50 says: "His mercy goes on from generation to generation, to all who fear him."
This is the most important thing on my heart. What will my children inherit? What about my grandchildren?
It is my desire that they would even know our Lord’s mercy in a greater measure than even I experienced and to know it sooner than I realized it!

This year I pray that each of us realize our true gift! We have been given the gift of eternal life along with the gifts of the spirit, which will cause us to give mercy and grace to others just as Christ has given to us!

May you each be blessed,

Holly :)

DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH

"A diamond is merely a lump of coal that did well under pressure."
~ Unknown

This quote really struck a cord in my spirit.

When we think we just can't take any more... Is that the times that
God is truly molding us into the woman of God he created us to be?
Acts 14:22 says:
We must all experience many hardships before we enter the kingdom of God.
It doesn’t say, SOME OF US WILL EXPERIENCE HARDSHIP…. It says ALL
will experience hardships!

The past few weeks have been very hard for so many people that I know. Families have lost loved ones to senseless acts of violence, relational problems, abusive relationships, etc. AND YES…. The people involved in each instance are Christians. So I know that we will all experience hardships. My desire is that we all remain STRONG IN THE LORD. None of us can overcome or endure such things without HIS STRENGTH.

The Lord says that even if we do suffer for doing what is right, we are still blessed.

It is my desire that each of us learn to STAND ON HIS PROMISES and TRUST him with an unfailing love. I have known people in my life that you can just sit back and see the amazing change that is taking place right before your eyes as they turn from that clump of coal into an amazing, sparkling diamond that represents our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! 

Hugs and praying for each of you,

Holly

Thankful Thursday! Relationships......

Today a very dear friend sent me the following story and I just had to share it today:
Fable of the porcupine

It was the coldest winter ever and many animals died because of the cold.
Some porcupines, realizing the gravity of the situation, decided to group together to share warmth.
This way they were better covered and protected; however - the quills of each one wounded their closest companions. After a while they decided to distance themselves one from the other and soon after they began to die, alone and frozen.
So they had to make a choice: either accept the quills of their companions or disappear from the Earth.
Wisely, they decided to go back to being together. They learned to accept the little wounds that were caused by these close relationships, in order to benefit from
what their companions offered. It was this way that they were able to survive and thrive. Moral of the story:

The best relationships are not ones that bring together perfect beings,
but are instead ones where individuals learn to live with the imperfections of others and can still accept the gifts they have to offer.

This reminded me of church family and friends.


Just as the following scripture reminds us:
1 Peter 2:21-23 (New International Version)

21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.
22"He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth."[a] 23When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

I'm thankful for my amazing Christian family that love me enough to hold me close - even when I wound them with my words and actions!

In Christ and still growing,

Holly :)

Tuesday's Truth! God's word is forever Inherent

Isn't it wonderful to walk in the knowledge that all things written in the word of God are true and will stand forever? That it isn't just a story book or someones opinion but the Inherent WORD OF GOD! That makes me go WOW..............................

I had a devotional this morning speaking about commitment, engagement and marriage and have posted just a small portion of it below:
Think of the engagement and wedding rings you gave your Fiance' or your Wife. How would you feel if she discarded them and chose to move on to other relationships? I see your resolve about commitments. Therefore I have honored and will continue to honor you. You see, My commitment to you is forever. My eternal covenant with you will never change. Your commitment to obedience and faithfulness is a beacon
light that never flickers nor fails.
Be like Moses. Numbers 12:7 (NASB) "Not so, with My servant Moses, He is faithful in all My household."

This was such encouragement to me! I walked through a Marriage where the other partner chose to leave and then an engagement that went the same way. For a very long time I played the blame game on myself and tried to be Lord and not forgive the sins that helped cause these relationships to end......

Today I'm thankful for the one in my life that will NEVER LEAVE ME NOR FORSAKE ME.... Aren't you? We can have hope in the fact that if we are striving toward him and his ways - walking in obedience to his word - that he will lead and guide us in the way we should go.....

WHAT COMFORT and oh my..........WHAT PEACE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Hugs,

Holly

Fearless Friday! Dying to Live

I have a very good friend that recently wrote a song that is titled:
DYING TO LIVE FOR YOU!

Yesterday I couldn't get the song out of my head.... I sang it all day long!
It speaks about the fact that as Christians we are dying daily to our flesh and
sinful nature in order to live for Christ... AWESOME SONG BY THE WAY KEVIN!!!!!! :)

It says that He paid the price and made the sacrifice in order that we might LIVE FOR HIM~~~

Just as Colossians 3:5-6 says: Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming.

Its a constant war against sin - isn't it? Today I have many loved ones on my heart that need the Lord and his mercy!

Please join with me in prayer for our loved ones that are still walking in their own strength but DESPERATELY NEED THE STRENGTH OF THE LORD!


Have a blessed weekend,

Holly

Thankful Thursday: 10 Things You Don't Know About Me!

1. I'm very short.......... 5' 1" and a 1/4.....lol
So this must mean I'm not really chubby - just short!!!!!!!!!

2. I still love my ex husband... I know... weird - huh?
in a Godly love and as the Father of my children and Papa to my new Grand babies!
Sooooo - my salvation prayer for him is very dear to my heart as he is a huge
influence in my Son's life!

3. I love to barrel race horses! At age 47 and a bad back - I can't race them any
longer - but I still love doing it and watching my Dad (who is 70) still runs
them! AMAZING......................

4. I was blessed with two amazing children that I love dearly... Son and Daughter.
They have blessed me with a Grand Daughter and two little men!!!!!!! Nana's
bundles of joy!!!

5. I do not like to SHOP.... crazy, huh?

6. I was named after my Aunts... Polly (which is where Holly came from) and
Gertrude Rebecca (which is my middle name - Rebecca).....

7. I miss my Momma with all of my heart. We lost her 12 years ago..... Amazing
LADY!

8. I enjoy the beach and SUNSHINE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Would love to retire to Colorado
or anywhere that the sun shines most days!

9. I'm fearful of ever getting married again... Its a desire of my heart... BUT
I have a fear of it not working out once again.... Still growing in that area.

10. I finally love the Lord FIRST! Amen............

I of course love the family of God as well............ Many of you woman have blessed my heart in great ways. I found Lynn at unequally yoked marriage a few years back and she encouraged me to join a study! Blessed and healed my heart in many ways! Thanks again Lynn for reaching out and caring.... Love ya girl....

Hugs,

Holly

Gratitute Wednesday: Thankful heart

1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.


Today I am just grateful for SALVATION! I'm thankful that His Spirit is in me and bringing about sanctification... If it weren't for the Lord, there is no way on earth I would ever choose the right way or His way!

This week has been a very very hard and long week (I know) its only Wednesday, lol....
But through his grace - I am strengthened and can do all things. Knowing this brings amazing peace to my heart.

I'm grateful that I have a Savior that knows my needs and cares about my smallest thought.....

Grateful this Wednesday for the fact that I'm his child and he loves me in spite of me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hugs,

Holly :)

Keeping My Eyes On The Lord

Today just seemed like one of those days.... Where none of my projects at work seemed to work out correctly - I felt crabby - out of sorts..........BUT GOD, right!

I had a devotional in my email that focused on this scripture:
Hebrews 12:1
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.

That was soooo good for me today! At times I become very impatient with others but expect them to be over and above patient with me....... .

I'm learning slowly - to just take that 2nd breath - realize that we all fall short and focus on the fact that the more I practice walking confidently and boldly in obedience is when I will surely start reflecting more and more of Christ.

Hebrews 5:8
Although he was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which he suffered!

WOW... makes me reflect that my small suffering is NOTHING IN COMPARISON!

Hugs,

Holly

Fearless Friday: Family Tragedy

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Today I'm joining Angie at Fearless Friday for prayer - please look at the request and join us as well.....


This past week we had a neighbor shoot himself.... We formerly attended church with this family in the past and he was a 2nd cousin to my Son in Law.

Such a sad situation and they most certainly need the Lord to comfort and restore them..... Please remember them in your prayers!

In Christ,

Holly

Thankful Thursday: Consistency!

Consistency:

James 1:5-8 (NASB) "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double -minded man, unstable in all his ways."

I am not sure about the rest of you.... But I have always struggled with remaining consistent in my walk. At times I would know for certain I was on task and right where the Lord wanted me doing his perfect will, while at others times felt totally in my flesh doing what pleased ME.

Today I'm thankful for just being able to stand. To stand on his word. To trust in his word and to know that as long as I'm running the race to please and serve him that he will be there with me. I have reached a place in my life that I do not yet have direction as far as if I will ever remarry or if I will remain single and at one time that filled every vacancy in my mind. It was a huge fear that I would end up all alone! That woman was a double-minded woman. Tossed to and fro running from one solution to another.

I'm thankful this Thursday that I still don't know the answer to that question but I have amazing peace in just resting in the Lord! I felt a huge tug at just taking a few steps back and waiting and trusting. So this is what I have done!

I HAVE FAITH THAT GOD IS IN CONTROL AND BEING THE LIGHT TO MY PATH, JUST AS HE HAS PROMISED!

In Christ,

Holly

I will not be moved: Song for the day!

This song was on my heart for today - so I'm singing along with Natalie Grant to remain steadfast and STAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


"Will Not Be Moved"

I have been the wayward child
I have acted out
I have questioned Sovereignty
And had my share of doubt
And though sometimes my prayers feel like
They're bouncing off the sky
The hand I hold won't let me go
And is the reason why...

[Chorus:]
I will stumble
I will fall down
But I will not be moved
I will make mistakes
I will face heartache
But I will not be moved
On Christ the Solid Rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
I will not be moved

Bitterness has plagued my heart
Many times before
My life has been like broken glass
And I have kept the score
Of all my shattered dreams and though it seemed
That I was far too gone
My brokenness helped me to see
It's grace I'm standing on

[Chorus]

And the chaos in my life
Has been a badge I've worn
Though I have been torn
I will not be moved

[Chorus]

GIVING UP MY DREAMS IN ORDER TO SEE HIS!

“When we are going through desperate, difficult times, the hardest thing can be hearing the voices of condemnation, rejection, and shame from others. The Enemy – the accuser of our brothers – loves to use people to kick us in the stomach when we’re down. The Enemy loves to use our sin to condemn us rather than allow us to hear the conviction of the Holy Spirit . . . Jesus silences the condemning voices and commands them to leave. Listen to the kindness in His voice as He says in
John 8:10-11.” Today I am joining Loni for "In Other Words"...........

This morning during my prayer time I was reflecting back on past thoughts and dreams that I had for my life and what I thought it would look like by the time I was this old! LOL

I would have never dreamed that I would have gone through a divorce, then an engagement that ended after a two year courtship and now a single Nana to 3 amazing little blessings from the Lord! I pictured it more like the picket white fence scenario where my Husband and I were perfect and nothing could have ever knocked us off of our feet.

But God knew where the river of life would take me and he also knew at which point in my life I would look up and cry out for his forgiveness and grace!

Its such a blessing to my heart to know that I can trust in Him to guide my way:
”A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)

This morning when I prayed I had to smile when I thought about my dreams compared to his dreams! It brought peace when I repeated the following scripture:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5)
and Isaiah 58:11 says: The Lord will guide you continually!

So for today Ladies............I am willing to let go of my dreams in order to discover his amazing plan! I have a dear friend that is working on a great song that speaks about dying to live for Him.............I just think that sums it all up.. Giving up our rights and our desires to seek what his perfect plan is for our lives and how and where we can serve the Lord!

{{{{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}}}}

Holly

The Harvest

My Daughter Kate took this photo yesterday morning while hunting on our farm. Just brought to mind the following scripture:

Matthew 9:37-38 (American Standard Version)

Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest indeed is plenteous, but the laborers are few.

Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he send forth laborers into his harvest.

Just seemed to follow my heart this morning when she sent the photo to me! Isn't God amazing in how he speaks to us through his creation! Just like the sun rising over the field.........It can speak in to our hearts softly and bring to mind his WORD!

This photo definitely spoke - The harvest is indeed plenteous!

Holly

Restoration!

Psalm 71:20-21
Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up. You will increase my honor and comfort me once again.

Today my heart is saddened for a family that recently endured tragedy! What do we
do in this life when we feel like we can't go on? That no one cares for our heart?
Where do we have to turn to?

I'm so thankful I now know the answer to those questions! I'm certain we have all had times in our life when we felt we were at the bottom of the pit - stuck in the mud and couldn't see a way out. Today I'm very aware that we have someone that is always with us - loving us and YES running toward us with arms wide open to draw us back into his protective care.

Another fact that is pounding in my heart today: How many of us are reaching OUT OUR ARMS? This is what saddens my heart the most. We have so many souls that are crying out "does anyone care"? Christ commands us to CARE and to LOVE on others.

He has assured us that in this life we will have times of troubles, right? So if we can learn from these times of trial and testings in our own lives and realize WHO IT WAS THAT BROUGHT US THROUGH THE FIRE..... Can't we use the test to become our testimony for Christ.......

Today I am praying that each time something breaks our heart in this world that it will call us to ACTION..............to SERVE.............to LOVE!

In Christ,

Holly :)


I'm joining Meet me on Monday

Questions:

1. Do your pants get hung on a hangar or folded?
Folded in my closet

2. If you are stranded on an Island, what 3 things would you need to have with you (not including humans or electronic devices)?
Bible
matches (Just don't think I could start a fire like a boy scout) LOL
sunscreen

3. Where is the farthest you have ever traveled to?
Cancun, Mexico
4. Do you live in a house, trailer or apartment, etc.?
I live in a house on a farm......

5. What is your most hated household chore?
Washing the windows

I DESIRE TO PRODUCE GOOD FRUIT! NOT JUST BE FRUIT.......LOL

Life by the Spirit

Galatians 5:16-26
16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

I know its a lot of scripture today, but I felt the need to remind myself what the true fruit of the spirit is. Our hearts can be so selfish and isn't it the desires of our heart that lead us to sin? The word says in James that all conflict is a result of not getting something that we desire!

I so desire to produce the good fruit of the spirit..... Not just walk around being FRUIT! :)
I can never be Godly just by going around trying harder. It will never happen. The more I focus on God and his amazing sacrifice though, the more I just naturally reflect his spirit.

Hugs and have a great weekend,
Holly

Thankful Thursday: We need one another!

Today I am thankful for good and Godly counsel in my life. God has planted me in a body of believers that I feel are walking out being the "church"....

The Lord says: “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.”
Proverbs 11:14

I'm thanking God for that safety. For men and women that are allowing God's word to infiltrate their heart so deeply that we are striving to become disciples of Christ. LOVING ON HIS PEOPLE!

On my way home last night from cell group... I stopped in my drive and notice the sky. It was absolutely amazing... It made me reflect on just how insignificant I am and how AWESOME GOD IS. Does he use us for his purpose - of course he does! But without him, I am absolutely nothing!

It made me so appreciate where he has me. That I'm surrounded by other like minded Christians that care deeply for one another!
No one is able to fully comprehend the leading of God on their own because we all have our weaknesses. Sometimes they are referred to as “blind spots” and they affect many decisions we make. These are the places where we are especially vulnerable to deception.

So today I'm thankful that I have fellowship with an amazing circle of counselors to help me see my weaknesses and encourage me to keep on running the race and fighting the good fight of faith!

{{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
Holly

Makeover of the Heart - Week 3

I'm joining Tracy Berta from "At the Well" for her bible study over the heart......


She asked that as you sit quietly before the Lord, ponder these:
• Has there ever been a time in your life when you doubted God’s plan or His timing? Have you come to trust in His plan for your life? What did God teach you through this experience?
• Do you have any hidden wounds that need to be healed?
• Is there someone you need to forgive (including God or even yourself)?

For the first question... Most definitely! During a recent break up I had to battle my way through doubt/fear.... Hoping and praying that the Lord's plan and timing would line up with MINE! I spent over a year on my face, praying, trusting and learning... What did I learn? :) OH MY.... That God is good all the time. The outcome was not what I desired in my heart. The answer was NO to my many nights of prayer and tears. BUT GOD... But God taught me how to trust him - even when I am not seeing results, even when I do see results and they aren't what I desired!
I know that I know... HIS PLAN IS PERFECT and GOOD!!

Do I have hidden wounds. NO...........I reveal my wounded heart to Godly counsel. I allow the word to penetrate my heart. Do I still have wounds and scars.. OF COURSE... But the blood of Christ is much bigger than my hurt or pain. I know that if I'm placing him first in my heart that he is CONTINUALLY HEALING ME!

Is there someone I need to forgive? Yes.... I wake up daily forgiving them... turning the hurts over to God and the main person is myself. I SEE MY SIN BIG.... at times I try and carry it and then realize that I'm trying to be God in place of God..... If God has forgiven me. THE SIN IS GONE. FORGOTTEN.

So as for me.... GOD IS ON THE THRONE FOR TODAY and prayerfully each and every day as I walk out my life in Faith and just try the best that I can to pick up the cross and allow the Lord to lead!

Great study,

Holly

Thankful Thursday: Foolish Words

"A fool vents all his feelings, but a wise man holds them back." Proverbs 29:11

I’m learning (very slowly I might add) that I don’t need to speak everything that enters my heart or mind. Many times we speak way too quickly.

I had that circumstance the other day on the job. I became very frustrated at what seemed to be a dishonest action toward me. I felt betrayed and lied to. This set the tone for the rest of my afternoon. I then left work (upset of course) and stopped at the daycare to pick up my Grand Daughter. My Son was there as well. At times we become distant with one another and I’m certain it is because we are much alike. We can both be stubborn and independent (in other words – willful sinners)…..
I don’t get to see him often and I asked what his family did all weekend.. He explained where they went and what all they did. I popped off with “Is my home banned from you all?” WHY…………….WHY do I do these things. My hearts desire is to please the Lord! Was this a statement that encouraged my Son? Reflected Christ? NO…. not in anyway were those words representing the LOVE OF CHRIST.

Today I’m thankful for the Lord’s still small voice that softly speaks – Holly, don’t say another word…… Ask your Son to forgive you and let him know the truth… The truth is that I love my Son with all of my heart and desire to see him… To share his life!

Lets all focus on what is true…. Not what we are feeling or thinking someone else is feeling. Truth is the only thing we can control in our lives is how we react to others actions and the only way we can react in a proper way is if God is in our heart and we are meditating and thinking on his WORD DAILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Thanking God today that he has chosen me even when I will never be able to deserve it!

Holly

Thankful Thursday: Finding True Joy

This morning I woke with thanksgiving on my heart as I realized my fan had stopped blowing..... My electric had gone off. I prayed to the Lord to allow me to be content in all things. I know this was not a life altering occurrence but it was an issue that I could have allowed myself to get frustrated for the inconvenience of my "comfortable life"...... I asked a small request for the Lord to allow me to be "content in all things".....

I found a quote by C.S. Lewis this morning that encourages me to EXPECT BIG THINGS FROM GOD:

If there lurks in most modern minds the notion that to desire our own good and earnestly to hope for the enjoyment of it is a bad thing, I submit that this notion has crept in from Kant and the Stoics and is not part of the Christian faith. Indeed, if we consider the unblushing promises of reward and the staggering nature of the rewards promised in the Gospels, it would seem that Our Lord finds our desires, not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.

Today I'm thankful that I can trust in the promises of God and hope for good things.
KNOWING THAT MY JOY IS IN THE LORD!

Hugs,

Holly

Healing

Healing is on my heart this morning....
I found the following quote by Dave Harvey yesterday and it fit my heart completely:
Random Quote

"Perhaps the longest lasting damage from spiritual abuse is loss of ability to trust. Mark Twain said that a cat that walked on a hot stove would never walk on a hot stove again. But then, it would not walk on a cold stove either…Finally healing comes when the individual is able to give help to others out of his own experience. The ideal setting for this is a support group. This writer has felt for many years that there needs to be a bridge between the abusive experience in their past and a grace oriented church to which they will eventually go, or maybe are now trying to re-learn to trust. That bridge needs to be their “Church In Between” a place of refuge that will function as a church, with understanding of their responses. Because, they are still like the cat that walked on that hot stove."

Sadly - I was like the cat that walked on the hot stove...
Not wanting to place my trust in a church again. I can say from the heart that today, I'm a part of a church that is my family. We love one another, serve one another and CARE FOR ONE ANOTHER. Are we all still sinners? Of course!
Do we all still need Christ? ABSOLUTELY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The quote above states: We need a place of refuge - That bridge that can be the church in between........How Ironic is it that the name of my church is "THE BRIDGE"..... Which illustrates the bridge that Christ created through his death to enable a relationship between God and his children!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm thankful that God led me to a church family that I can be free to admit my faults, seek counsel and still be loved in spite of who I am!

IS THAT NOT AN EXAMPLE OF THE CHURCH BEING THE CHURCH? I believe it is :)

In Christ,
Holly

Thankful Thursday!

Today I am thankful for Christ... Thankful that we are now under a new covenant.
Thankful that he sent "another Counselor".... John 16:7 He goes so far as to say it is to our advantage that He leave so the Counselor can come.

How great is it that we have a "personal relationship" with Christ.
We don't have to go through the Priest because he is the only one hearing from God directly.

Christ made the ultimate sacrifice for our sins and desires to fellowship with "ME" with "YOU".........

My heart is thankful for this fact!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Resting in the Lord today,

Needed Wisdom!

James 1:5-7 (NLT) "If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord."

Today I feel like the unsettled wave of the sea.... My example to the lost world has been unstable...
I say one thing and my actions say the opposite. I so desire to please God and my flesh wants to float along in my emotions.....
THE ABOVE SCRIPTURE SPOKE TO MY HEART IN SUCH A HUGE WAY...... Such people should not expect to receive ANYTHING FROM THE LORD! Wow..... BUT GOD!

Only through God can I do the right thing... THE HARD THING.... God's way is never easy but it is always, always our only choice. I have struggled in my singleness and at times ventured out on my own to find that perfect match.

Today however.... I can rest in the fact that God already knows the desires of my heart and as long as I am determined to walk in his "perfect ways" he will hear my prayers as long as my faith is in God and God alone.... NOT IN MY ABILITIES!

So for the word for the day on Wednesday: I NEED WISDOM! :)

Fearless Friday: Prayer for God's people

Its finally FRIDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :) Today I have God's church on my heart!
That's right.... GOD'S CHURCH... HIS FAMILY...... HIS CHILDREN...........

Pray the Scriptures. Hebrews 4:12 says that God's Word is alive and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword. When we speak and pray the Scriptures, we are coming into agreement with God, and His power is released to answer our prayers.

God tells us that his word is alive and powerful. If I meditate on his word - I will know his heart.

I know with all of my heart that his love for us is BIG...... and he desires to lead and guide us in ALL OF HIS WAYS..... That his way is Holy.

I'm praying for his church... to rise up and become an amazing light to the lost world. Not to just be a gathering place to socialize or become the "in crowd"......

My prayer today is that I look outside the four walls of my church meeting... That I see what God desires me to see and that I love what God desires me to love!

Today... its not about me... BUT HIM........ Let our focus be "Christ centered" and we will begin to grow in his Holiness....

What a thought!

Wednesday Gratitude: Grateful that the Lord hears our cry!

I was talking with a friend last night and he stated while visiting his Mother who is ill, his Dad looked at them both and said " I'm going to watch T.V. and will let you two ladies sit and visit".......... I thought to myself - ouch! How could a Father speak to his Son that way.

It made me dwell on the TRUTH..... An earthly Father may not love and respect his Son here on earth - BUT OH WHAT A DIFFERENCE A HEAVENLY FATHER MAKES! Our heavenly Father loves us with such an unconditional love that he grants us FULL FORGIVENESS in his Son Jesus Christ! What joy that brings to my heart.

Isn't it wonderful to know and trust that God allows all things for HIS PURPOSE and that he is a GOOD GOD and will turn our disappointments into our BLESSINGS!

The enemy sends things like this into our lives to disappoint us.... cause us to slip backward into despair but the Lord will use our pain to allow his love to shine if we can allow Christ to be greater in us than he that is in the world........
Psalm 16: 7-8
I bless the LORD who gives me counsel;
in the night also my heart instructs me.
I have set the LORD always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

Today I'm trusting that God is near the down cast and broken hearted and that brings peace to my heart!

Fearless Friday

Join us as we pray for others and support their needs. We all have a need daily and its wonderful to know that we can let those needs rest with the Lord because he is completely aware of our circumstance and has all things under his perfect control!


In prayer,

Holly

Thankful Thursday! What I deserve

I was reminded yesterday of the commercial:
You deserve a break today @ McDonalds.....lol
Made me think on the worldly view of what we deserve. We deserve to be happy, or we deserve to spend that money on a new outfit.. After all... We work hard for our money!

Today I'm thankful to God that I actually don't receive what I truly deserve, aren't you?
Rom 2:5 (Phi) Or are you by your obstinate refusal to repent simply storing up for yourself an experience of the wrath of God in the day of his anger when he shows his hand in righteous judgment?

God is a just God! We have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.. We deserve death... But instead receive mercy: which is not getting what we deserve/punishment and Grace: receiving what we don't deserve/unmerited favor....

Today I'm thanking God for his amazing grace and the fact that I'M NOT GETTING WHAT I SO DESERVE!

Wednesday Gratitute: Lets be doers

James 1:22-25 (NASB) "For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does."

Today my heart is on serving and what that looks like. I'm ashamed to say that for way to many years I was only a hearer. Going to church and hearing the word, feeling conviction on Sunday morning and then by Tuesday living out my day by emotions or feelings only!

God hasn't called me to "feel good" every day. I'm not saved to be granted a life filled with being "happy".....
But.... He does promise peace and joy:
Colossians 3:15 - And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
John 16:22 - And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.

So I take this from the word of God.... Nothing can remove my joy and my peace as long as its rooted in Christ Jesus.
My hope this day is rooted and the key to my happiness is in serving. Christ didn't come to earth to experience a "happy life"... He came to serve, to love, to give.
Giving the ultimate sacrifice for a wretch like me!

This Wednesday I am thankful for my salvation and the grace that I so did not deserve.

Hugs,

Joy comes in the morning!

Psalms 31:9 O' Lord have mercy on me in my anguish. My eyes are red from weeping; my health is broken from sorrow.
Did you know that our tears can actually remove toxins from our bodies? I didn't.
I thought that was interesting and what a way for the Lord to be healing our bodies as we grieve over the loss of a loved one.

Psalms 147:3 He heals the broken heartened, binding up their wounds.
This morning my heart is going out to a very dear sweet sister in Christ. We sat with her as she watched her Husband pass on to be with our Lord. There was an amazing peace in knowing that he was now dancing and praising the Lord, at the same time a deep sorrow in watching her cling to his hand not wanting to release the amazing love she had for this man! What a servants heart. SHE SERVED HIM WELL.

1 Thessalonians 4:13 says: Brothers we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep or to grieve like the rest of men who have no hope.
There was peace in knowing where Ron was at the time he left this earth! Almost makes one envious to think on what Ron was experiencing while we were witnessing his departure. God tells us to rejoice when someone dies and cry when someone is born.

Not an easy thing to do in the flesh.

My prayer this morning is for my sweet Sister to stand on this truth from the word of God:
Jeremiah 31:13 I will turn their mourning into gladness. I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.

May we all be thankful for this day that the Lord has granted us and go about our day purposefully! Living a life to please God.

Love,

Holly

What to do with our desires?

Psalms 37:5-7 (NASB) "Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. And He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, And your judgment as the noonday. Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him.


I was and have been thinking this past week more about my singleness. Getting discontent and desiring the things of my past. Marriage, commitment, family.

Notice the key word. I have been thinking. Hmmm. isn’t that the problem.
Colossians 3:1-4 says:
"If therefore ye have been raised with the Christ, seek the things which are above, where the Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God: have your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are on the earth; for ye have died, and your life is hid with the Christ in God. When the Christ is manifested who is our life, then shall ye also be manifested with him in glory."

So for today, instead of thinking I can know that I should be praying. The Lord knows my heart and I can trust that he cares about my desires even more than I do. His ways are not my ways. His ways are PERFECT.
Mark 11:22-24
Have[f] faith in God," Jesus answered. 23"I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.

Isn’t that the key when we get focused on “me”. Trust in the Lord, have faith (without doubting) that he has your best interest at heart ALL THE TIME!
When I think on those things that I desire, I can turn to him, stop thinking and speak with my mouth to my heavenly Father about those things.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10. He's essentially saying: I am content when I lose. I am content when I am weak. I am content when I'm insulted. I am content when I endure hardships. I am content with persecutions. I am content with difficulties. What an amazing example of the "faith walk".......

Thankful Thursday

Lets begin with the thought of a Thankful heart.... Yesterday I discovered my ex fiance's photo of he and his new bride. OUCH, that's right.. His new bride. I had no idea he had gotten married. I would have thoughts of "I wonder".... but now knowing has shed a new light on this heart of mine. Many months ago I felt the Lord impress upon me the answer isn't no but new..............Okay... But Lord, what does that mean.... You will restore Mark and I and we will be new in Christ TOGETHER!

So this morning I'm focusing on the truth that the answer was in fact NO to Mark and Holly.

This morning I can rest in the fact that God loves me so very very much that he has something better in mind for this short life of mine! Something ABUNDANTLY GOOD.
I'm here for this moment for HIS PURPOSE. Not my own. I am surrounded by an amazing care group, amazing church family, amazing family and friends.

2Corinthians 9:15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

This morning I choose to look at this life of mine as an amazing gift. I'm thanking the Lord for not giving me "WHAT I DESERVE" but granting me "GRACE" "FORGIVENESS" "MERCY"........................even in that. I'M BLESSED BY GOD. He is creating a heart of Christ in me to use in his great plan.
That excites me. That over rides any hurt I may feel from a "human loss".....

I can look back on the past and learn. Learn how to love others the way Christ would have me love them. Not self seeking but being patient and kind.

I like what it says in 1 Corinthians 13 4-8.
A portion says I bear up under anything and everything that comes, and I am ever ready to believe the best of every person. My hopes are fadeless under ALL CIRCUMSTANCES, and I endure everything without WEAKENING. God's love in me never fails.

I realize this morning that Holly is different. Its not about Holly and I know that I can do ALL THINGS in Christ. For his purpose and not my own!

Today! I can honestly say. I'M THANKFUL that God loves me enough to protect me and guide me to his way and not my own. He saw what was ahead and around the curve when I couldn't.

HOW AMAZING IS HIS LOVE?

Being Lonely

Seems like so many woman are suffering today with "loneliness"..... Many of my friends are suffering with this feeling. Most are God fearing woman that can run to the word of God and realize that we have someone that is closer than a Brother to us in spirit... But what about those days when ya just need face to face fellowship.

It helps to be reminded that even those chosen to write books of the bible were stricken with the "lonelies".....
3 John 14: I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face.
2 Timothy 1:4 speaks of Tears of loneliness.

My heart goes out to all of those that become lonely from time to time. Why, because I struggle with it as well. Being married for over 22 years of my life I became accustomed to having a significant other in my life. Some one to hold me in moments of dispair, happiness, sadness, confusion..... We all know we can run to the Lord in these times but our flesh still cries out for that fleshly companionship.

I'm praying that this day we can see that Christ felt and knows our pain right along side of us. In Mark 15:34 Christ cries out My God, my God, why have you forsaken me. Talk about UTTER LONELINESS. Christ knew for that very moment that he had taken on ALL OF OUR SIN and was now our sacrifice.

My prayer is this thought will help each of us walk through the valleys at times and run to Christ.... Realizing he knows what our pain feels like and even KNOWS A MUCH GREATER PAIN, but yet took it on for our sakes.

Hugs to you all,

Holly

Let us see through the eyes of Christ

Seeing through the Lord’s eyes

It’s been a while since I wrote. It has also been a while since I spent quality time with the most important relationship in my life “GOD”. I want to begin with repentance……
A formal prayer to the Lord of my sorrowful heart of filling my world with “Holly desires” in place of Godly desires.

God is so so good to NEVER MOVE…. Isn’t he? We are the ones that stop moving forward….. It is just like floating in the river…. If we are not swimming forward – we don’t even have to be doing anything, but we will drift down stream.

That is where I was at. Just floating. God desires me to RUN AFTER HIM…..
Trust in the Lord and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord; And he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him and He will do it. Psalm 37: 3-5
Trust in the Lord and do good……….
I was getting it all backwards again. I have spoke of Nellie and those of you who follow me know all to well that Holly can drift back in to Nellie Olsen mode… Well………..
Was headed in that direction for sure.

That is until my dear sweet Sister in Christ (Sheila – I love you by the way) spoke up and said….. Holly, when is the last time you blogged about your relationship with Christ and what he is doing in your life? She spoke of not seeing that hunger and desire in my heart and also seeing the nature of Nellie re-surface in my actions! OH LORD – FORGIVE ME……. I want the Lord’s perfect will in my life and I’m certain most of you do as well.

It’s a simple remedy and so thankful that God loves us so very very much that he sends us little messengers………………………
Today – I desire those things from above and want my heart to cling to his ways!

Hugs and prayerfully I’m back!

Holly

Tuesday's Thoughts

Today I was thinking on God and his goodness...... I was talking with my Son in regard to good people. Who is a good person? Seriously! Psalms 14:1 says there is no one who is good apart from God....

I have learned the hard way that none of us are good without the Lord.. PERIOD....

We want to convince ourselves that so and so is a really good person with a good heart they just need the Lord. That's not the truth. Yes - we all need God - but it only God in us that produces any good whatsoever.

You cannot teach values, you cannot teach morality, without teaching about God. “Be ye holy,” God said, “for I am holy”... This makes my heart think on my children - my children's children. I pray that the Lord speak in to their heart and draw each of them to him.

Today I'm thankful that I can trust in HIS GOODNESS and not my own. Knowing that
every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation, or shifting shadow (James 1:17).

Its a good thing to know that our heavenly father only has good plans for our lives if only we keep his commandments and follow his ways!


Hugs,

Holly

Finally Friday!

ITS FINALLY FRIDAY:

The above photo of my little "precious people" just makes me think of HAPPY..... PEACE....... JOY.................

Its good to remind ourselves that in God we can find that same joy. He is always ever ready to come and rescue us from ourselves - our emotions - our circumstances.
He never moves. NEVER.

What peace in knowing I can run to him and offer my burdens up to him and he is more than willing to carry them for me. I don't have to drag them around like a suitcase. I can just lay them at his feet.

Come unto me, all ye that are heavy laden, and I will give you rest, Matt. 11: 28-29.

Praying this scripture today and a very dear member of my family. Praying that the Holy Spirit fill his heart and bring much needed rest and peace.

Thank you Lord for you mercy and grace and loving us with a never ending love.

Holly

Thankful Thursday

Does it seem that bad news is more prevalent today than ever before. Every time I turn around I'm confronted with more bad news. More heartbreak? Before you stop reading.... lol Stay with me.

We do live in a fallen world. Period. Bad things happen to good people. My heart has been broken several times during my life. I now watch as members of my family are broken as well. I'm angry at the enemy this day! Very angry. He only comes to steal, kill and destroy.

I know - I know.... This is THANKFUL THURSDAY.... lol Okay..............
This day I am very thankful in heart.
God's word says to let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith.
with our hearts "sprinkled clean" from an evil conscience and our bodies " washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

I believe that Day is drawing near. I'm so thankful that we have the word to run to and other believers to help encourage us in this walk..............

So thankful for being in the family of God and for the many amazing Brothers and Sisters in Christ that he has placed in my life to help support and encourage me to keep on keeping on. Pressing toward that mark.

Thank you to each and every one of you!

Hugs,
Holly

Wednesday Gratitude

Hello Ladies,

I know it has been quite some time since I posted along side you on Wednesday Gratitude.

Heidi... I so enjoyed your blog today and your BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS.... And especially the bare feet... That so reminded me of myself sitting on my front porch enjoying this amazing time of year. WHAT BEAUTY God has granted us while on this journey.

I love to go for long walks and just soak in his BIGNESS.........................
It makes it so easy to be in awe of our creator.

I'm thankful for the many writers out there that help me to refocus on what is truly important. So many times I get all consumed with my own little world and what MY HEART IS GOING THROUGH that I fail to do what God has called me to do. I should be more concerned about the hurting around me - the hungry around me - the LOST AROUND ME............... Thank you once again gals for allowing me to read into your lives and realize once again that this whole trip is NOT ABOUT ME and help me to recognize my SMALLNESS and the Lords BIGNESS......................I like that! :)

God bless and my prayer is that you all continue to allow God to use your many gifts for his glory!

Hugs,
Holly

Friendships

Today I have Friendships on the heart. Isn't it amazing how the Lord brings people in and out of our lives and they touch a spot in our hearts that you know God used them just for that moment?

I have met many along the way. Some friendships are truly those that you know are meant for a life time. Others were only for that season. I'm thankful for ALL OF THE FRIENDSHIPS that God allowed along the path.

As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. Proverbs 27: 17(NKJV) Just like this scripture shares..... Friendships help in molding our character. Who God desires for us to be.

I've grown to appreciate what each friendship has brought into my life. Especially those of like faith. Its wonderful when we meet those along the road that you know the Lord used in your life:
Oil and perfume rejoice the heart; so does the sweetness of a friend's counsel that comes from the heart. Proverbs 27: 9

Thanking the Lord this day for christian friendship.


Be blessed,

Holly

STORMS OF LIFE

This past month I have tried to meditate on who God is in our heart? What place does he TRULY hold? Is he in control of all things? Actually, not even IS HE - But do I live my life as if HE IS IN TOTAL CONTROL? I fail at this more than I like to admit.

Today I would like to place him back on the throne of my life. HE IS IN CONTROL OF ALL THINGS and I desire to live in such a way that I trust that with all of my heart. To stop running around trying to fix all the things that are wrong, or disappointing. Stop blaming others for the same sin that I myself might be struggling with and to just LOVE THEM - in spite of the sin. Love them the way Christ loves me and forgives ME...........

All to often we REACT in a way that pleases the enemy more so than pleasing God.
Satan is thrilled when we react toward other Christians in anger or withdraw from them instead of run to them with a loving and caring nature that reflects CHRIST IN US!

Today - regardless of the storms in this life. I want to praise God for the rainbow that is just around the corner. The promise that he is always covering us under his loving protection and guidance. IF ONLY WE WILL REACH OUT AND PLACE ALL OF OUR CARES AND BURDENS UPON HIM............ He will grant our soul that peace that surpasses ALL OF OUR NATURAL UNDERSTANDING!

Praying this day that I to can have a heart of Christ toward ALL people. Recognizing that I have been forgiven of MUCH - and must do the same for those that I love.


Thanking the Lord today for his gentle reminder that he is always in control of our storm,

Thankful Thursday

Ephesians 5:20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Today I am thankful for his mercy and grace. Which is always sufficient. So many times we are focused on "self" and can get side tracked easily. Focusing on what we desire and what we feel we may deserve. When in fact we should be focused on what Christ desires. Its only then that we can be truly blessed with that "abundant life".

I am learning the hard way to realize we aren't called to become a christian just to have all of our desires met. We are called to suffer with Christ. To pick up our cross daily. That is a picture that I don't always keep at the forefront of my mind or heart for that matter.

Today I'm thankful for his gentle reminder once again that its not about me. Its ALL ABOUT HIM. I can only be used by Christ in this life as long as he is the center of my life. Then and only then can he use me to touch others.

Thanking him this day for his amazing sacrifice and for always remaining steadfast and never changing. That person in whom we can put our entire trust and confidence in.

Loving the fact that I'm his servant,
Holly

God's Peace

I recently went on vacation to Mexico and took this photo of the sunset. My purpose for the trip was just to soak in the Lord's beauty - rest - relax. The photo gives me such a sense of PEACE. Isn't that what the Holy Spirit brings to our lives.

Even during the storms of life. Even when the sea is tossing and turning. We can reach out to our precious Savior for him to take control of our situation and trust that while we are in his arms we are safe and secure.

Just as it says in Isaiah 26:3 You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you!


Today I am so very thankful for his presence in my life and even when I get off track or sideways in my walk. Its not that he has left me. I know that he is always ever present in my time of need.

Thanking him for his love today and repenting of the moments in my life when I try and walk through life on my own and not looking to him for guidance.

In Christ,
Holly

Last night was an emotional evening. I attended visitation at a funeral. What made this emotional was it being my EX Family. After coming home alone - my children were supporting their Father.... I was left with such anxious feelings. Having this over whelming feeling I should be there to? I was married in this family for over 22 years. I believe I was well over all issues involving them.

Truth is. I still love this family. No matter what. They will always be dear to my heart. Today I can be thankful for that. It doesn't matter what has occurred in the past. Only that TODAY - I can love them still. I can pray for them still with a sincere heart.

Today I'm thankful for the Love of Christ that has so changed my heart. I have NO BITTERNESS. How amazing is that? I don't care what was done to me. What peace God has brought to this heart of mine!

I love this quote: Change is inevitable but change for the better is a full time job!

The apostle Paul, after exhorting the Philippians to be "anxious for nothing", tells them, "By prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God."(Phil. 4:6).

TODAY I AM SO VERY THANKFUL FOR HIS LOVE IN MY HEART~~~~

Wednesday Gratitude

I'm joining Heidi at Heart of Home for Wednesday Gratitude today.
Today I'm thankful for the many blessings of the Lord. He has blessed me with
an amazing family that I love dearly.

I have two beautiful grand babies - Levi and Grace. they are both 13 months old with only two weeks between their ages. SO CUTE and at that super fun age.

Blessed with the beauty of living the country life with wide open space and the opportunity to praise God while being right in the middle of his creation!

I feel so extremely blessed to be able to just walk down the country road and see the beauty of the sunset or the beauty of a clear night sky with the bazillion stars at night - (hee hee) is that even a real word................

How could any one look at creation and not KNOW and BELIEVE that there is a GOD?

Psalm 91:1
The heavens declare the glory of God; the sky displays his handiwork. 2 Day after day it speaks out; night after night it reveals his greatness.

Grateful today for God's grace and mercy, even on a sinner such as I!

Blessings,

The Love of God

Yesterday was a hard day for family members. My Ex Husband’s Grand Father passed away. The hard part is this: My children barely knew this man. I wish they had gotten to know him better and I am partly to blame for this as well.

My heart is going out to my ex-husband today in a great way. I’m not sure what is bringing these emotions out so strongly but I am certain that God is in control of ALL THINGS. I know many may find this photo odd in comparison with the Love of God. But my ex husband is a farmer and raises cattle and this picture spoke volumes to my heart. Just as this Momma cares for her new born baby - This is how our heavenly Father watches over us as well!

My Daughter spent the evening with her Daddy last night and she realizes this has touched him in a huge way. My prayer today is that God would draw David to him at this very moment. That David would realize how special he is in God’s heart.

1 Peter 5:6-7
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Oh that this would occur in him. I pray that today – He know the awesome LOVE OF OUR SAVIOR…………………………………… Please pray along with me that God would do a mighty work in this family and they feel the comfort of our dear Lord.

God’s word shall not lie:

Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Psalm 55:22
Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.

Praying that their hearts know the presence of God this day!

In Jesus precious name I pray,

~Thankful For God's Way And Not My Own~

"P.S. I shared this post on Heart to Heart with Holley."




Nellie – It’s Not About You!

I’m not certain how many of you remember Nellie Olsen from “Little House On The
Prairie” series? She was the Daughter of Mr. Olsen that owned the local
Mercantile store. Nellie was very spoiled and consistently demanded her own way, thinking only of herself. Not many people could remain her friend for very long. It didn’t take long for her consistent ugliness to wear thin.

Why the history lesson on Nellie Olsen? Well, because I was a NELLIE in many ways. I haven't ever been mean like her, however - Nellie can come out in our character in many different ways. Before the Lord finally got my attention and had me focus on the problem areas, my life was ALL ABOUT ME! How could I be prettier? How could I become more popular? How could I get the basketball star in High School to go out with me? How could I have the perfect children? How could I get my husband to do what I desired? What was wrong with everyone around me?

Then the Lord allowed many painful lessons in my life in order to help me see that his purpose for our lives has nothing to do with US but has everything to do with HIM…… If you have picked up this book I can assume that you to have finally come to the place that you are more interested in his plan for you life than you are in what your desires are.

One day a very dear friend looked me in the eyes and said “Nellie, no one feels sorry for you any longer – look at how your actions may have hurt this person instead of just focusing on the consequences of your own actions!” WOW……. And this was my best friend? Little did I realize, she was in fact my best friend that loved me enough to share TRUTH!

My hope and prayer is that through my life lessons I can share with you the glorious way that God loved me in spite of me!

The saying “Often God has to shut a door in our face so that he can subsequently open the door through which he wants us to go”……. Well, let’s just say this is a motto for my life!

Thanking God today for the blessings of HIS TRUTH and for sending people into my life to share it~

Hugs,
Holly

Will You Be Different?

God has been challenging my heart lately with this question? Will I take the chance to stand out? Be different from the crowd? Be a true follower of Christ?

I have always struggled in this life with pleasing other people. Even at the cost of my faith! I have been uneasy with these choices in life! I want to be pleasing to the Lord and STILL HAVE ALL OF MY FRIENDS IN LIFE. Can you relate to this at all?

Luke 9:23 rings loudly in my heart today:
"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.

MUST DENY HIMSELF! Strong words.... I'm called to be different and to make a difference while here on this earth. Its my prayer that through Christ - He will make a difference in the people I come in contact with! Use me Lord and strengthen me to do YOUR WILL.......

John 15:18-21

“If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you... If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you... because they do not know Him who sent Me."

I finally desire to be the red and white cow in the picture above. Not just be "One of the herd"....... God hand picked each and every one of us for HIS KINGDOM PURPOSE and today I am challenging each of you to BE DIFFERENT from the rest......

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2 NIV).

God Bless,
Holly

Thankful Thursday

Today I am thankful for the Lord allowing life lessons. While going through these difficult times I'm not always "so thankful" though. There have been times in my life that I've cried out in anger - not understanding how a GOOD GOD could allow such BAD things. Its only after many years that I realize the bad things in this world are exactly that..... The bad things IN THIS WORLD... We live in a fallen world full of sin.

Heb 12:5-8 (NIV) "My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son." Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons.

As I think on the lessons he has allowed in my own life I think back of the lessons I tried to teach my children and how bad it hurt me to have to spank or scold them. How much more does our heavenly Father hurt when he has to discipline us?

Thanking him for loving US FIRST!

Hugs,
Holly

LET ME WALK IN YOUR FOOT STEPS!

The above photo is a picture of my Son-in-Law's foot and his baby Grace's foot.
When looking at this picture it makes me think of the scripture:
Psalms 37:23-24 (NLT) "The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand."

This Wednesday I am thankful to the good Lord for providing such an amazing Daddy for my Grand Daughter Grace and awesome Husband for my Daughter as well!
I love to watch him with his baby girl. His eyes just sparkle when he walks in the door from work and she throws out her arms and says " HI - Daddy"!

What joy it has brought to this Granny's heart to watch him open the word of God and study....... I can trust that he desires to raise his daughter with the knowledge of our precious Savior.

Thank you heavenly Father for your Holy Spirit drawing this family to your kingdom purposes. Your word does not lie and we can trust in the following:

"Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it."
[Proverbs 22:6].......... **** this goes for she will not depart as well**** :)

Psalms 37:23-24 (NLT) "The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand."

Have a blessed Wednesday ladies,
Holly