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Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Light of the World
As we admire the lights around the Christmas season, let us be reminded the true "light of the world" is Jesus who brings light to our darkness. We are then called to be a light to others. Are you bringing light to others, not just the glitter of a bulb but the one true light...the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ?
"When Jesus spoke to the people, he said, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'" - John 8:12 NIV
"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:16 NIV
Monday, November 30, 2009
Trash or Treasure
We had this heater that would run and then cut off. We soon decided to just throw it in the trash and buy another one. When we got the other one, it began doing the same thing. So we thought that maybe the heater wasn't broken so we got it back out of the trash. We took the new one back to the store because the old one started back up.
Then it happened again...start and stop. Back in the trash it went. We thought it must just be that model so we bought a different model. The new model did the same thing! What was the problem? After reading the instructions, it said, "If your heater runs for several minutes and shuts off repeatedly, your heater may require cleaning." Really? So back out of the trash, for the second time, we saved the heater.
How many times do we throw away relationships because they don't "run" like we think they should? We toss them in the trash, bring them back, and toss them in the trash again when all they need is cleaning! We may even say it must be the model and try another model but then the new one does the same thing! Why?
We are all born into sin, in need of a Savior, who cleans us from all our sins. Until Jesus enters into our lives, we are dirty, we don't run like we should, and we repeatedly shut off. Maybe you've been thrown in the trash...get yourself out! Maybe you've thrown a friend or family member in the trash...get them out! And ask Jesus to clean your life pure so you can run the way God intended for your life to run...with excellence!
"Because on this day atonement will be made for you, to cleanse you. Then, before the Lord, you will be clean from all your sins." - Leviticus 16:30-31 NIV
"Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me." - Psalm 51:7, 9-11
Jesus is our atonement who will cleanse you today!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
In Jesus' Arms - Remembering Our Children
October is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and today is Pregnancy Loss Remembrance Day.
One year ago, last October, I wrote about two losses in our family. One was my nephew, John David, who journeyed to Heaven on January 28, 2006 and the other was our own baby that was miscarried on November 24, 2006. I also have an aunt and uncle who lost their child during her pregnancy.
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To read more about our experiences, click on the blog link below (click on the back button to return):
http://godsteachablemoments.blogspot.com/2008/06/pain-with-no-name.html
When we miscarried our baby, I was only in my first trimester. We had just been to the doctor on the previous Monday and confirmed the pregnancy. We never had the chance to know whether or not we would have had a boy or girl, so when we thought of a name, we chose "Calvary" because this loss was the cross that God asked us to bear, much like the cross of death that Jesus bore at Calvary which led to eternal life for us all. It was a heavy cross. A cross we had no idea carried such pain. A cross we would soon realize that many, many other millions of parents would also carry each year.
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I have many friends and family members who have children resting in the arms of Jesus. It is such a painful experience. If you have experienced loss in your family, I encourage you to visit websites such as http://pregnancyloss.info/.
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In October 1988, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.-
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“When a child loses his parent, they are called an orphan. When a spouse loses her or his partner, they are called a widow or widower. When parents lose their child, there isn’t a word to describe them.”
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Robyn Bear, founder of http://www.october15th.com/, envisioned a day when all grieving parents could come together to reflect on their loss yet embrace the love. Since October is proclaimed “Awareness Month”, Robyn chose October 15th to become “Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day”. For more information, please visit http://www.october15th.com/.
One year ago, last October, I wrote about two losses in our family. One was my nephew, John David, who journeyed to Heaven on January 28, 2006 and the other was our own baby that was miscarried on November 24, 2006. I also have an aunt and uncle who lost their child during her pregnancy.
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To read more about our experiences, click on the blog link below (click on the back button to return):
http://godsteachablemoments.blogspot.com/2008/06/pain-with-no-name.html
When we miscarried our baby, I was only in my first trimester. We had just been to the doctor on the previous Monday and confirmed the pregnancy. We never had the chance to know whether or not we would have had a boy or girl, so when we thought of a name, we chose "Calvary" because this loss was the cross that God asked us to bear, much like the cross of death that Jesus bore at Calvary which led to eternal life for us all. It was a heavy cross. A cross we had no idea carried such pain. A cross we would soon realize that many, many other millions of parents would also carry each year.
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I have many friends and family members who have children resting in the arms of Jesus. It is such a painful experience. If you have experienced loss in your family, I encourage you to visit websites such as http://pregnancyloss.info/.
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In Memory of John David and Calvary
We love you!
In October 1988, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.-“When a child loses his parent, they are called an orphan. When a spouse loses her or his partner, they are called a widow or widower. When parents lose their child, there isn’t a word to describe them.”
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Robyn Bear, founder of http://www.october15th.com/, envisioned a day when all grieving parents could come together to reflect on their loss yet embrace the love. Since October is proclaimed “Awareness Month”, Robyn chose October 15th to become “Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day”. For more information, please visit http://www.october15th.com/.
Monday, September 14, 2009
The Law of Agreement
"I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven." (Matthew 18:18-19 NIV)
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We usually think about the positive (a healing, miracle, etc) when we read this scripture but it says that if we agree about anything then it will be done. When people come to us with negative opinions that speak destruction, disease, death and we reply with "yeah" or "I think so too" or some other agreeing remark then we come into agreement with that person. Then because God does not lie, the law of agreement begins to unfold.
When the spoken word does not line up with Word of God or His perfect will for your life...which is good and not evil, then say, "I do not accept that..." and begin to proclaim God's promises over your life. The power of life and death is on our tongue (Proverbs 18:21).
"If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." (James 1:26-27 NIV)
You've have probably heard of the saying, "Be careful what you wish for, you might just get it!" Speak good things over your life and accept only the best!
Heather Harris
September 14, 2009
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We usually think about the positive (a healing, miracle, etc) when we read this scripture but it says that if we agree about anything then it will be done. When people come to us with negative opinions that speak destruction, disease, death and we reply with "yeah" or "I think so too" or some other agreeing remark then we come into agreement with that person. Then because God does not lie, the law of agreement begins to unfold.
When the spoken word does not line up with Word of God or His perfect will for your life...which is good and not evil, then say, "I do not accept that..." and begin to proclaim God's promises over your life. The power of life and death is on our tongue (Proverbs 18:21).
"If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." (James 1:26-27 NIV)
You've have probably heard of the saying, "Be careful what you wish for, you might just get it!" Speak good things over your life and accept only the best!
Heather Harris
September 14, 2009
Friday, March 6, 2009
Along Unfamiliar Paths
"I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not
forsake them." - Isaiah 42:16 (NIV)
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If you are like me, you have your physical sight, but many times go "blindly" through life not knowing, understanding, or comprehending the plan, purpose, or provision yet to come. God said he would lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths. Think of how scary it would be to be blind and unfamiliar with your surroundings. I have been traveling on occasions where I woke up in unfamiliar places and for a moment been frightened or even injured my toe as I stumbled around trying to find my way in the dark.
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For those not having the sense of sight, they would say it is very important to keep things in order and in place. We often like to live our lives the same way, in order and in place. When we are on unfamiliar paths in our lives it can be scary. Your unfamiliar path may be unemployment, an addiction, sickness, trouble with a family member, divorce, a financial crisis, or a loss of a person you loved. Now you may be all alone, in debt, or pain. Those around you may not understand what you are going through right now, but God does understand and cares.
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There is hope for those who place their trust in God. God did not say he would lead us to an unfamiliar place and leave us there. No, he promised that on the unfamiliar path, he would turn the darkness into light before us and make the rough places smooth. The most important promise is at the end when he said, "I will not forsake them."
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Are you on an unfamiliar path? Trust in God. There will be light coming from the darkness. There will be a smooth place instead of rough times soon. God will not leave you, he will never abandon you, he will not forsake you. Going through life without God is like the blind trying to circle the earth without a guide. Call on him today...God loves you and will lead you through the unknown and along the unfamiliar path.
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Heather Harris
March 6, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Surrender: Let Go and Let God Work
This devotional was so good that I wanted to share with you. It is ever more important with such challenging days and uncertain futures to fully surrender our lives to God.
Heather Harris
February 17, 2009
"Surrender yourself to the Lord, and wait patiently for him."
· Following God’s lead without knowing where he’s sending you;
· Waiting for God’s timing without knowing when it will come;
· Expecting a miracle without knowing how God will provide;
· Trusting God’s purpose without understanding the circumstances.
You know you’re surrendered to God when you rely on God to work things out instead of trying to manipulate others, force your agenda, and control the situation. You let go and let God work.You don’t have to always be in charge. Instead of trying harder, you trust more.
You also know you’re surrendered when you don’t react to criticism and rush to defend yourself.
Surrendered hearts show up best in relationships. You are not self-serving, you don’t edge others out, and you don’t demand your rights.
The most difficult thing for many people to surrender is their money. Many have thought, “I want to live for God but I also want to earn enough money to live comfortably and retire someday.”
Retirement is not the goal of a surrender life, because it competes with God for the primary attention of our lives. Jesus said, “You cannot serve both God and money,” (Matthew 6:24 NIV) and “Wherever your treasure is, your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21 NIV).
This level of maturity doesn’t come easy.In Jesus’ case, he agonized so much over God’s plan that he sweat drops of blood. Surrender is hard work. In our case, it requires intense warfare against our self-centered nature.
Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., one of America's largest and best-known churches. In addition, Rick is author of the New York Times bestseller The Purpose Driven Life and The Purpose Driven Church, which was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th Century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet community for ministers.
Heather Harris
February 17, 2009
Surrender: Let Go and Let God Work
by Rick Warren
"Surrender yourself to the Lord, and wait patiently for him."
Psalm 37:7 (GWT)
Surrendering your life means:
Surrendering your life means:
· Following God’s lead without knowing where he’s sending you;
· Waiting for God’s timing without knowing when it will come;
· Expecting a miracle without knowing how God will provide;
· Trusting God’s purpose without understanding the circumstances.
You know you’re surrendered to God when you rely on God to work things out instead of trying to manipulate others, force your agenda, and control the situation. You let go and let God work.You don’t have to always be in charge. Instead of trying harder, you trust more.
You also know you’re surrendered when you don’t react to criticism and rush to defend yourself.
Surrendered hearts show up best in relationships. You are not self-serving, you don’t edge others out, and you don’t demand your rights.
The most difficult thing for many people to surrender is their money. Many have thought, “I want to live for God but I also want to earn enough money to live comfortably and retire someday.”
Retirement is not the goal of a surrender life, because it competes with God for the primary attention of our lives. Jesus said, “You cannot serve both God and money,” (Matthew 6:24 NIV) and “Wherever your treasure is, your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21 NIV).
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The supreme example of self-surrender is Jesus. The night before his crucifixion Jesus surrendered himself to God’s plan. He prayed, “Father, everything is possible for you. Please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will, not mine” (Mark 14:36 NLT). Jesus didn’t pray, “God, if you’re able to take away this pain, please do so.” He began by affirming that God can do anything! He prayed, “God, if it is in your best interest to remove this suffering, please do so. But if it fulfills your purpose, that’s what I want, too.” Genuine surrender says, “Father, if this problem, pain, sickness, or circumstance is needed to fulfill your purpose and glory in my life or in another’s life, please don’t take it away!”
This level of maturity doesn’t come easy.In Jesus’ case, he agonized so much over God’s plan that he sweat drops of blood. Surrender is hard work. In our case, it requires intense warfare against our self-centered nature.
© 2008 Purpose Driven Life. All rights reserved.
Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., one of America's largest and best-known churches. In addition, Rick is author of the New York Times bestseller The Purpose Driven Life and The Purpose Driven Church, which was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th Century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet community for ministers.
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Thursday, February 5, 2009
Greater Love Has No One But This....
Valentine's Day is just around the corner and the thoughts of love in the air!
Jesus said in John 15:13-17 (NIV), "Greater love has no one but this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command (see command at the end). 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. You did not choose me, but I have chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit (fruit of the spirit according to Galatians 5:22-23 are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control), fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other."
Jesus showed us the greatest love when he paid the price for our sins, he died for us to have an abundant life free from sin. "God demonstrated his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Jesus died for us." Romans 5:8 (NIV).
During this month, when love is in the air, accept Jesus' love for you and in turn love one another.
Heather Harris
February 5, 2009
Jesus said in John 15:13-17 (NIV), "Greater love has no one but this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command (see command at the end). 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. You did not choose me, but I have chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit (fruit of the spirit according to Galatians 5:22-23 are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control), fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other."
Jesus showed us the greatest love when he paid the price for our sins, he died for us to have an abundant life free from sin. "God demonstrated his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Jesus died for us." Romans 5:8 (NIV).
During this month, when love is in the air, accept Jesus' love for you and in turn love one another.
Heather Harris
February 5, 2009
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Happy New Year!
There is always excitement in the air around the world when a new year begins. Even if times have been rough, there is a glimmer of hope that this year things will be better.
Grab hold of that hope and don't let go! When we have faith (even a little faith) that faith opens the door for miracles. Be determined this year is going to be great! God's best is just around the corner!
Grab hold of that hope and don't let go! When we have faith (even a little faith) that faith opens the door for miracles. Be determined this year is going to be great! God's best is just around the corner!
"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart. I will be found by you,' declares the Lord, 'and will bring you back from captivity."
- Jeremiah 29:11-14 (NIV)
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God has great plans for your life that are good. Call on Him today and He will bring you back from captivity. What has you held captive? What worries you? Keeps you up at night? Makes you fear will happen or has happened? Call on Him to clear your mind and give you peace.
If you do not know how to fully surrender your life to God, click on the "Steps to Peace" link on the right of the blog page. The link will take to you the Billy Graham website where you can be lead step by step in setting your life in the right direction!
You're in good hands if you love God and we are called for His purpose, that all should come to the saving knowledge of Christ. When you love God, you can rejoice knowing this will be a Happy New Year!
"We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all— how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died— more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: 'For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.' No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
- Romans 8:28, 31-39 (NIV)
Heather Harris
January 1, 2009
If you do not know how to fully surrender your life to God, click on the "Steps to Peace" link on the right of the blog page. The link will take to you the Billy Graham website where you can be lead step by step in setting your life in the right direction!
You're in good hands if you love God and we are called for His purpose, that all should come to the saving knowledge of Christ. When you love God, you can rejoice knowing this will be a Happy New Year!
"We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all— how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died— more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: 'For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.' No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
- Romans 8:28, 31-39 (NIV)
Heather Harris
January 1, 2009
Thursday, December 25, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS!
"The angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. this will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.' Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rest.'" Luke 2:10-14 (Holy Bible, NIV)
Christmas is a day to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. So many people get so caught up in the presents that they forget to receive the most wonderful gift of all.
Do you still have a present unwrapped, waiting for you? Ask and you shall receive, eternal life, forgiveness for our wrong doings, favor with God, and peace. There is no more expensive gift than when God gave his own Son that you may have life and life more abundantly.
Heather Harris
December 25, 2008
Christmas is a day to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. So many people get so caught up in the presents that they forget to receive the most wonderful gift of all.
Do you still have a present unwrapped, waiting for you? Ask and you shall receive, eternal life, forgiveness for our wrong doings, favor with God, and peace. There is no more expensive gift than when God gave his own Son that you may have life and life more abundantly.
Heather Harris
December 25, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving!
What is the key to having a happy thanksgiving? Being thankful of course!
No matter how bad things may seem, there is always something that we can be thankful for in our lives. I encourage you today to make a list of the things or people you are grateful for and when you are feeling down or anxious, get out your grateful list and feel the joy return to you.
No matter how bad things may seem, there is always something that we can be thankful for in our lives. I encourage you today to make a list of the things or people you are grateful for and when you are feeling down or anxious, get out your grateful list and feel the joy return to you.
"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Worship the Lord with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the Lord is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations."
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations."
Psalm 100 (Holy Bible - NIV)
Heather Harris
November 27, 2008
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Run with Perseverance the Race
Two of the most inspiring lives are the lives of Dick and Rick Hoyt. Rick has cerebral palsy, caused by loss of oxygen to his brain at birth from his umbilical cord being wrapped around his neck.
As of August 31, 2008, Dick (father at the age of 66) and Rick (son at the age of 44), "Team Hoyt", had participated in a total of 984 events, including 229 Triathlons (6 of which were Ironman competitions), 20 Decathlons, and 66 Marathons, including 26 Boston Marathons. They have also biked and run across the USA, in 1992 — a 3,735 mile journey that took them 45 days.
Dick pulls Rick in a special boat as they swim, carries him in a special seat up front as they bike, and pushes him in a special wheelchair as they run. Watch the videos below to see a father's love and a son's courage to run with perseverance the race marked out for them.
The Ironman race encompasses three endurance events of a 2.4 mile (3.86 kilometer) swim, followed by a 112 mile (180 .2 kilometer) bike ride, and ending with a 26.2 mile (42.195 kilometer) marathon.
The belief of Team Hoyt is "You CAN".
Ironman Race... (click on the link below, then click on the back button to return to the blog)
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=8cf08faca5dd9ea45513
TODAY NBC News Interview...(click on the link below, then click on the back button to return to the blog)
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=4e7679f8a731d6cce58a
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."
Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
"He (God) gives strength to the weary and increases the power to the weak. Even the youths grow tired and weary, and the young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:29-31 (NIV)
"I can do everything through him (Christ) who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
Heather Harris
November 15, 2008
As of August 31, 2008, Dick (father at the age of 66) and Rick (son at the age of 44), "Team Hoyt", had participated in a total of 984 events, including 229 Triathlons (6 of which were Ironman competitions), 20 Decathlons, and 66 Marathons, including 26 Boston Marathons. They have also biked and run across the USA, in 1992 — a 3,735 mile journey that took them 45 days.
Dick pulls Rick in a special boat as they swim, carries him in a special seat up front as they bike, and pushes him in a special wheelchair as they run. Watch the videos below to see a father's love and a son's courage to run with perseverance the race marked out for them.
The Ironman race encompasses three endurance events of a 2.4 mile (3.86 kilometer) swim, followed by a 112 mile (180 .2 kilometer) bike ride, and ending with a 26.2 mile (42.195 kilometer) marathon.
The belief of Team Hoyt is "You CAN".
Ironman Race... (click on the link below, then click on the back button to return to the blog)
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=8cf08faca5dd9ea45513
TODAY NBC News Interview...(click on the link below, then click on the back button to return to the blog)
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=4e7679f8a731d6cce58a
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."
Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
"He (God) gives strength to the weary and increases the power to the weak. Even the youths grow tired and weary, and the young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:29-31 (NIV)
"I can do everything through him (Christ) who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
Heather Harris
November 15, 2008
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Our Future..."Think About Such Things"
With all the doom and gloom talk about the economy and state of our country, it is easy to fall into concern or even fear our future. My advice....turn off the television and invest in a good book. While we do not need to be in denial about the things going on around us, it is very important for us to focus on a good report.
Paul encouraged us in Philippians 4:4-9, 11-13 (NIV) to focus on the good:
" Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. And the God of peace will be with you.
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want. I can do everything through him (Christ) who gives me strength."
Do you desire to have peace in your life? Then think about such things. God remains in control of your life and is your provision as long as you give Him permission to do so. Let your requests be known to Him today and then rest in His peace.
Heather Harris
November 5, 2008
Paul encouraged us in Philippians 4:4-9, 11-13 (NIV) to focus on the good:
" Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. And the God of peace will be with you.
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want. I can do everything through him (Christ) who gives me strength."
Do you desire to have peace in your life? Then think about such things. God remains in control of your life and is your provision as long as you give Him permission to do so. Let your requests be known to Him today and then rest in His peace.
Heather Harris
November 5, 2008
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Never Begging for Bread
No matter what happens in this world, God will never forsake His children. We don't always understand why things happen, but this we do know, God's 'no' means He has a better 'yes'.
“All things work together for good to those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 NIV (Paul)
“’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,’ declares the Lord, ‘and will bring you back from captivity.’” Jeremiah 29:11-14 NIV (Jeremiah)
“I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging for bread. They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be blessed.” Psalm 37:25-26 NIV (David)
Security is not in your investments, your savings, or your job. True security comes from a life surrendered to God, being generous, and lending freely to those in need. By doing so, your future becomes secure, prosperous, and full of hope.
Heather Harris
November 2, 2008
“All things work together for good to those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 NIV (Paul)
“’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,’ declares the Lord, ‘and will bring you back from captivity.’” Jeremiah 29:11-14 NIV (Jeremiah)
“I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging for bread. They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be blessed.” Psalm 37:25-26 NIV (David)
Security is not in your investments, your savings, or your job. True security comes from a life surrendered to God, being generous, and lending freely to those in need. By doing so, your future becomes secure, prosperous, and full of hope.
Heather Harris
November 2, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
The Pain with No Name
When a child loses a parent, the child is an orphan. When a wife loses a husband, she is a widow. When a husband loses a wife, he is a widower. However, when a parent loses a child, there is no name to describe the loss. Losing a child in death is the pain with no name. There is no name or word to describe the pain felt when a parent experiences such grief.
Saturday, January 28, 2006, our family experienced that pain which cannot be described when my sister and brother-n-law lost their son during child birth due to food poisoning that had flooded through my sister's body days earlier. She was in the hospital because of flu like symptoms. The decision was made to induce labor to protect the baby since the baby was at full term. A few hours later, my brother-n-law called to give me the bad news that they had lost their baby son, John David. He had passed away during the birthing process. In the days to follow, as we held on to hope that my sister would survive, we mourned for the loss of the baby. Those are two experiences I pray I will never have to face again, losing a nephew and almost losing my only sister. Years later there are moments of sadness as my mind recalls those memories.
Then November 24, 2006, the Friday after Thanksgiving, that same year Thomas (my husband) and I experienced a miscarriage during the early stages of our first pregnancy. We were so saddened. It felt like we too had lost a child. When I came home from the hospital that Friday, confirming the pain I was experiencing was indeed a miscarriage, I laid on the bed and cried. Thomas went to the mailbox and discovered a package.
The package was a book from Joel Osteen. I had not ordered a book. This was a God moment, ordered by God. When I opened the book, the devotional on the page titled "The 'Why' Questions" was about King David losing his own newborn baby. The devotional went through the pain King David experienced, then the decision King David made to trust God in the midst of his disappointment (2 Samuel 12:16-23).
In my greatest time of need, the answer had arrived in the mailbox. God had arranged for my mother to order the book weeks earlier, so it would arrive on the very day I needed it, so I would open the book to the very page on losing a child and asking why, so God could turn the pain into purpose.
When we don't understand why, we should ask what. What good would God have come of this pain?
The Sunday after my miscarriage, I was still in physical pain. There was a drive in me to get to church, regardless of how I felt. That morning, I was on the stage introducing the pastor. I began to cry and then felt the need to share what had happened with our loss and the message in the mailbox. I went on to say if there were others who were still waiting on their message in the mailbox, then know God loves them very much, does not wish them harm, and he would carry them through their pain. Afterwards, there were several people that expressed how much the experience had touched them and would help others in their family get through their own struggles.
John David, my baby nephew in Heaven, was able to reach more people with the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ through his death than many of us will be able to reach with our lives. Hundreds of people were brought to a place of prayer and reflection on what was most important in life, surrendering our lives to God today because we are not promised a second chance tomorrow.
As Joyce Meyer says often, "You can be bitter or better. The choice is yours." Look for the purpose in your pain. God cares about your pain. He wants to help you become better and make something good (purpose) come from your life's struggles.
"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.
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." 2 Peter 5:6-10 NIV
Heather Harris
October 3, 2008
Saturday, January 28, 2006, our family experienced that pain which cannot be described when my sister and brother-n-law lost their son during child birth due to food poisoning that had flooded through my sister's body days earlier. She was in the hospital because of flu like symptoms. The decision was made to induce labor to protect the baby since the baby was at full term. A few hours later, my brother-n-law called to give me the bad news that they had lost their baby son, John David. He had passed away during the birthing process. In the days to follow, as we held on to hope that my sister would survive, we mourned for the loss of the baby. Those are two experiences I pray I will never have to face again, losing a nephew and almost losing my only sister. Years later there are moments of sadness as my mind recalls those memories.
Then November 24, 2006, the Friday after Thanksgiving, that same year Thomas (my husband) and I experienced a miscarriage during the early stages of our first pregnancy. We were so saddened. It felt like we too had lost a child. When I came home from the hospital that Friday, confirming the pain I was experiencing was indeed a miscarriage, I laid on the bed and cried. Thomas went to the mailbox and discovered a package.
The package was a book from Joel Osteen. I had not ordered a book. This was a God moment, ordered by God. When I opened the book, the devotional on the page titled "The 'Why' Questions" was about King David losing his own newborn baby. The devotional went through the pain King David experienced, then the decision King David made to trust God in the midst of his disappointment (2 Samuel 12:16-23).
In my greatest time of need, the answer had arrived in the mailbox. God had arranged for my mother to order the book weeks earlier, so it would arrive on the very day I needed it, so I would open the book to the very page on losing a child and asking why, so God could turn the pain into purpose.
When we don't understand why, we should ask what. What good would God have come of this pain?
The Sunday after my miscarriage, I was still in physical pain. There was a drive in me to get to church, regardless of how I felt. That morning, I was on the stage introducing the pastor. I began to cry and then felt the need to share what had happened with our loss and the message in the mailbox. I went on to say if there were others who were still waiting on their message in the mailbox, then know God loves them very much, does not wish them harm, and he would carry them through their pain. Afterwards, there were several people that expressed how much the experience had touched them and would help others in their family get through their own struggles.
John David, my baby nephew in Heaven, was able to reach more people with the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ through his death than many of us will be able to reach with our lives. Hundreds of people were brought to a place of prayer and reflection on what was most important in life, surrendering our lives to God today because we are not promised a second chance tomorrow.
As Joyce Meyer says often, "You can be bitter or better. The choice is yours." Look for the purpose in your pain. God cares about your pain. He wants to help you become better and make something good (purpose) come from your life's struggles.
"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.
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." 2 Peter 5:6-10 NIV
Heather Harris
October 3, 2008
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Our Father's Love
Our little son, Anthony, arrived on December 29, 2007. Thomas (Anthony's Dad) has been so protective from the very first moment. God has provided many teachable moments by watching Thomas' fatherly love for his son.
It was a month before we laid Anthony in his crib to sleep on his own, January 27th to be exact. It only lasted a couple of hours. Thomas had the baby monitor on his night stand. Thomas said, "I couldn't sleep. Every time he would make a noise, I would check on him."
God reminded me that is how much he loves us. God watches over us in love and is attentive to our every movement. As Psalm 121 says below...our God, who watches over us, will neither slumber nor sleep.
When Anthony cries, Thomas picks him up quickly and says, "It's ok. You're in Daddy's arms. Daddy has you now and you're safe." Thomas would be on one bended knee, bent over Anthony, just waiting for a whimper.
God loves you so much that He too watches over you and just waits for you to cry out to Him. Call on God today and He will pick you up and carry you in His arms. You too can then say that you are safe in Daddy's arms.
Psalm 121 (NIV) -
"I lift up my eyes to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip, he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over (you) will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you, the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm, he will watch over your coming and going...both now and forevermore."
Heather Harris
February 5, 2008
It was a month before we laid Anthony in his crib to sleep on his own, January 27th to be exact. It only lasted a couple of hours. Thomas had the baby monitor on his night stand. Thomas said, "I couldn't sleep. Every time he would make a noise, I would check on him."
God reminded me that is how much he loves us. God watches over us in love and is attentive to our every movement. As Psalm 121 says below...our God, who watches over us, will neither slumber nor sleep.
When Anthony cries, Thomas picks him up quickly and says, "It's ok. You're in Daddy's arms. Daddy has you now and you're safe." Thomas would be on one bended knee, bent over Anthony, just waiting for a whimper.
God loves you so much that He too watches over you and just waits for you to cry out to Him. Call on God today and He will pick you up and carry you in His arms. You too can then say that you are safe in Daddy's arms.
Psalm 121 (NIV) -
"I lift up my eyes to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip, he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over (you) will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you, the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm, he will watch over your coming and going...both now and forevermore."
Heather Harris
February 5, 2008
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Declaration of Faith
The Word of God (Bible) is powerful like a sword. When you feel under attack, flight back with the Word. Make the scriptures personal and speak your own declaration (announcement) of faith. When Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, his response was "It is written" (Matthew 4). Jesus referred back to the scripture which still cuts the enemy like a two edged sword today.
Declaration of Faith....
The word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). Therefore, I will pick up my sword and boldly proclaim that no weapon formed against me shall prosper for it is my heritage from the Lord (Isaiah 54:17).
I will go into battle prepared, wearing the full the armor of God. I will be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. I put on the full armor of God and take my stand against the devil’s schemes. I am fully aware my struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, authorities, and powers of darkness, and spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, I will not depend on my own strength, but rather the full armor of God, so when the evil comes, I will stand my ground, and after I have done all I can, I will stand. Stand firm with the belt of truth around my waist, the breastplate of righteousness in place, my feet covered with the gospel of peace, the shield of faith in my hand which can and will extinguish all the flaming arrows of fear and doubt the enemy throws at me. I cover my mind with the helmet of salvation, knowing nothing can separate me from God’s love and my secure future in His grace. In the other hand, I hold strong to the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. I will pray in the Spirit on all occasions with my prayers and requests. The Holy Spirit knows what to pray when I do not and I give the Holy Spirit full authority to speak on my behalf. I will remain alert and always keep praying. My God will hear my cry and run to my rescue…I am never alone (Ephesians 6:10-18 and Matthew 28:20b).
I submit my past, my present, and my future to God. I cannot image the great plans my Father has for me. His thoughts are higher than my thoughts, His ways higher than my ways. His word will not return void. I will go out in joy and be led by peace. Good things will overtake me and I will walk in God’s favor. The blessings on my life will be an everlasting sign of God’s goodness which will not be destroyed (Isaiah 55:8-13).
My future is secure in God’s perfect plan. God plans for me to prosper, continuing from glory to glory without recession. God will not bring harm to me. He will fill me with hope and a secure future. No one will mess up God’s plan for my life, not even me. I will go and pray to my Father and when I pray my Father will listen to me. When I seek after Him with all my heart, I will find Him. My God will bring me back from captivity (Jeremiah 29:11-14).
God has not given me the spirit of fear, but of power to over come the enemy, of love that bears all things, and a sound mind that will keep me in perfect peace (2 Timothy 1:7).
I will rejoice in the Lord always. The Lord is near. I will not be anxious for anything. God knows what I have need of and will provide my every need because He cares about me (Matthew 6:25-34). When I am tempted to work out things on my own, in my own time, I will take my thoughts into captivity and make them obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:4-5), submitting my requests to God through prayer and petition with thanksgiving. The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:4-8).
I may be hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. The same spirit that raised Christ Jesus from the grave dwells in me. Therefore, I will not lose heart. Though outwardly I may be wasting away, inwardly I am renewed day by day. My eternal reward far outweighs all the momentary troubles I may face. I will fix my eyes on not what is seen, but what is unseen (2 Corinthians 4:8-18). God’s grace is sufficient for me for His power is made perfect in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
The word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). Therefore, I will pick up my sword and boldly proclaim that no weapon formed against me shall prosper for it is my heritage from the Lord (Isaiah 54:17).
I will go into battle prepared, wearing the full the armor of God. I will be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. I put on the full armor of God and take my stand against the devil’s schemes. I am fully aware my struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, authorities, and powers of darkness, and spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, I will not depend on my own strength, but rather the full armor of God, so when the evil comes, I will stand my ground, and after I have done all I can, I will stand. Stand firm with the belt of truth around my waist, the breastplate of righteousness in place, my feet covered with the gospel of peace, the shield of faith in my hand which can and will extinguish all the flaming arrows of fear and doubt the enemy throws at me. I cover my mind with the helmet of salvation, knowing nothing can separate me from God’s love and my secure future in His grace. In the other hand, I hold strong to the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. I will pray in the Spirit on all occasions with my prayers and requests. The Holy Spirit knows what to pray when I do not and I give the Holy Spirit full authority to speak on my behalf. I will remain alert and always keep praying. My God will hear my cry and run to my rescue…I am never alone (Ephesians 6:10-18 and Matthew 28:20b).
I submit my past, my present, and my future to God. I cannot image the great plans my Father has for me. His thoughts are higher than my thoughts, His ways higher than my ways. His word will not return void. I will go out in joy and be led by peace. Good things will overtake me and I will walk in God’s favor. The blessings on my life will be an everlasting sign of God’s goodness which will not be destroyed (Isaiah 55:8-13).
My future is secure in God’s perfect plan. God plans for me to prosper, continuing from glory to glory without recession. God will not bring harm to me. He will fill me with hope and a secure future. No one will mess up God’s plan for my life, not even me. I will go and pray to my Father and when I pray my Father will listen to me. When I seek after Him with all my heart, I will find Him. My God will bring me back from captivity (Jeremiah 29:11-14).
God has not given me the spirit of fear, but of power to over come the enemy, of love that bears all things, and a sound mind that will keep me in perfect peace (2 Timothy 1:7).
I will rejoice in the Lord always. The Lord is near. I will not be anxious for anything. God knows what I have need of and will provide my every need because He cares about me (Matthew 6:25-34). When I am tempted to work out things on my own, in my own time, I will take my thoughts into captivity and make them obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:4-5), submitting my requests to God through prayer and petition with thanksgiving. The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:4-8).
I may be hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. The same spirit that raised Christ Jesus from the grave dwells in me. Therefore, I will not lose heart. Though outwardly I may be wasting away, inwardly I am renewed day by day. My eternal reward far outweighs all the momentary troubles I may face. I will fix my eyes on not what is seen, but what is unseen (2 Corinthians 4:8-18). God’s grace is sufficient for me for His power is made perfect in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Heather Harris
November 13, 2007
Friday, September 7, 2007
Turning Pain Into Joy
On April 19, 2007, Thomas (my husband) and I found out we were having a baby. More specifically on August 13, 2007, we found out we are having a baby boy! The due date is Christmas day, December 25th! Our son's name will be Anthony Thomas Harris and we will call him Anthony. We are excited that God has blessed us with such favor.
My journey so far has not been easy. The first 15-16 weeks of the pregnancy, I was sick non-stop and lost 8 lbs. When I entered into the second trimester, I thought all the pains would be gone. After all, I had been told the second trimester is the "feel good" time of the pregnancy. Instead I have experienced back pains, trouble sleeping, heartburn, and the list goes on and on. I am claiming my "feel good" time will be all through the third trimester and delivery!
I look back and thank God for the pain, because through the discomfort He has brought many of those teachable moments to me. Thomas and I attended a child birth class on September 1. The class taught the techniques of pain management. The key points were to find a focal point and focus on it then breathe deep. An important word of advice was not to panic. There is a pain cycle that begins with anxiety. The anxiety causes tension, the tension causes pain, the pain causes anxiety.....more anxiety, more tension, more pain....and on and on the circle goes round and round.
The teachable moment was this....When we go through the most difficult pains of our life, God desires for us to make Him our focal point, to breathe deep, and not to panic. If we stay calm and endure the pain, this too will pass and the joy will soon come.
"You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." - John 16:20-22 (NIV)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
Heather Harris
September 7, 2007
My journey so far has not been easy. The first 15-16 weeks of the pregnancy, I was sick non-stop and lost 8 lbs. When I entered into the second trimester, I thought all the pains would be gone. After all, I had been told the second trimester is the "feel good" time of the pregnancy. Instead I have experienced back pains, trouble sleeping, heartburn, and the list goes on and on. I am claiming my "feel good" time will be all through the third trimester and delivery!
I look back and thank God for the pain, because through the discomfort He has brought many of those teachable moments to me. Thomas and I attended a child birth class on September 1. The class taught the techniques of pain management. The key points were to find a focal point and focus on it then breathe deep. An important word of advice was not to panic. There is a pain cycle that begins with anxiety. The anxiety causes tension, the tension causes pain, the pain causes anxiety.....more anxiety, more tension, more pain....and on and on the circle goes round and round.
The teachable moment was this....When we go through the most difficult pains of our life, God desires for us to make Him our focal point, to breathe deep, and not to panic. If we stay calm and endure the pain, this too will pass and the joy will soon come.
"You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." - John 16:20-22 (NIV)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
Heather Harris
September 7, 2007
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