New For 2009

I love having a blog...it's kind of like scrapbooking only much easier for people who are creatively challenged like I am. It's also a great way to keep family and friends up to date with what is going on in our lives. In looking back through our blog over the past year, there is a dominant theme - OUR KIDS. That is not a bad thing because they are such a blessing to us. Starting this year,however, I am hoping to add posts that are not ALL related to our kids :0) So here goes:

PRAYER:
We have two very dear families who are in need of your prayers. Many of you know them and are already praying. For those who don't, here is an opportunity to interceed for these precious people.

Beth and Aaron are expecting their first baby any time now. Please lift up the entire family as they await the arrival of Jeremiah Parker.

The Ellis family is facing a season of physical challenges. Pray for God's peace and wisdom as they continue to lean on Him during this time.

GOD'S PROMISES:
I caught a little bit of Walk in the Word today (on my way to CVS - see above post) and heard James MacDonald teach about patience, perseverance and waiting on God to fulfill his promises. There are so many promises in God's Word! Unfortunately, we often discount them because they don't come to fruition when we want them to. I was challenged to constantly keep God's promises before me and to wait expectantly for them to be fulfilled.

One example James gave was about bringing up children in the instruction of the Lord. James' version ended with, "and when they are TEENAGERS, they won't depart from it". His point is obvious - the Word doesn't say that. It says when they are OLD, they won't depart from it. What a good reminder of a promise that I don't have to expect to be fulfilled right now!

Another promise that he spoke about was the fact that God's Word does not return void. He challenged us to constantly speak/share/teach scripture because it will eventually bear fruit. This is not true about man's words - the human advice we give, the nagging, the lectures, etc. Another great promise!