My 'new' original song - a poem I wrote!

These walls cannot contain

The lives that have been changed

Jesus in this place

His love is what sustains

Broken she came, a family torn from sin

Forward for  prayer and feeling so ashamed

Intercession with strong faith

A life would not be lost

Our faith creates miracles, this battle would be won

These walls cannot contain

The lives that have been changed

These walls cannot contain

God’s mercy and His grace

Strongholds claim the torn, addictions and the pain

Forward for a prayer and yielding to His name

Intercession and fervent prayer

A life would not be lost

Our faith creates miracles, the battle will be won

These walls cannot contain

The lives that have been changed

Jesus in this place

His love is what sustains

New hurts walk in today

Forward for a prayer and feelings of such shame

Intercession with strong faith

These walls will not contain

The lives He has changed

These walls cannot contain

The lives that have been changed

These walls cannot contain

God’s mercy and His grace 

Faith creates miracles, the battle has been won!  

" My healing is complete ".....

  "My healing is complete and it does not always LOOK like what you want to see".....

When I was praying so fervently last summer for a friend that was battling cancer, God spoke to me.  

----- HOW do I hear HIM?  

THAT is going to be a topic at our next CELL group so I will share that on this blog in the future, but as I began to pray  last summer and I asked  God to speak to  my friend Trace....I was reminded of how many times - the healing does not come right away....or the healing does not look like WHAT I want it to.  

Back to RIGHT now...today -- 

I was reminded of this Word from God again --- "my healing is complete and it does not always LOOK like what you want to see"....

I have been asking God a tough question over and over these past two weeks - "why do some marriages work out and others don't"???????

My husband, at times,  may hear a bit of a  conversation I am having with  another - I try to keep it as private as possible at times, but I do welcome  his input and ask him  at times for his advice.  He has the gift of discernment,  and as we pray together  -- sometimes other prayers just spill over and he will listen and then give me a suggestion or a reminder.   

He noted something last week and then I stated he should "blog it"  and he was going to -  but that has not happened so I am going to share a bit of it now.  He speaks of the ROLLER Coaster....He is pretty knowledgeable in it, as he was on a roller coaster of faith for a LONG time.

I was too.

 He reminded me  of how there are ebbs and flows of our feelings.  You will see where a person is so desperate for help and seek godly counsel and get through the crisis of the moment, but he or she won't take that EXTRA step and GET out of the boat and begin  to WALK in faith  with Jesus on that water.  

Many times it is  because  - he or she is  NOT ready. 

Other times, it is because one believes he  will have to 'give up' too much of the 'old life'.

And even other times, it is because people  are looking for a quick fix -- not a LONG TERM relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, and Jesus.  

But that is OK.  

As, God does not want ANYONE to perish,   that person will seek HIM out again and maybe this next crisis of faith will be the one where that person FALLS in love with Jesus ...and wants HIS companionship and FELLOWSHIP - all the days of his or her  life.  

It really is a cool thing to witness.  

....when one crosses over that line and becomes SOLD out to HIM...

So with that....God reminded me, "my healing is complete"....I know that God heals and HE heals completely - it just may not LOOK like what I expect from THIS perspective.  

But that is OK.  HE is in control. HE only asks me to plant the seed at times and to be a prayer warrior for a season -- but I trust GOD that the complete healing will come to that person...that prayer request.  

I believe God is big enough.

And divorce does not mean that this couple won't GET back together. In fact, I have a dear pal that was about to SIGN the papers of divorce and God clearly spoke to her - 'this is not my plan' and she went back home.....and they have been married now over 20+ years.

I am humbled that my marriage was restored.  I know God brings beauty out of all ashes when we allow HIM to.

And sometimes God uses the divorce ...to bring healing.  But - HIS healing is complete.  

I believe God can OPEN the eyes of that one who does not realize that they are STILL on that roller coaster .

I believe GOD can  open those eyes  of the one that continues on that Roller Coaster --EVEN when that person  appears to GET BACK ON that Roller Coaster with their own poor choices.

The point is -- as I wish to SPEAK LIFE as I wrap up this blog post -- is.....

If you want complete healing -- BE willing to wait on God...HIS healing is complete.  Believe that promise for yourself.  Claim it.  Recite it.  Healing emotionally is - at times - more painful and time consuming than a physical healing.  But - GOD will win.

And as we wait on that healing - STAY close to him.....

Beloved,  worship ME by living close to Me.  This is My original design for man, into whom I BREATHED MY VERY BREATH OF LIFE.  This is My desire for you:  that you stay near Me as you walk along your life- path. EAch day is an important part of that journey.  Although you may feel as if you are going nowhere in this world, your spiritual journey is another matter altogether, taking you along steep, treacherous paths of adventure.  THAT is why walking in the Light of  My Presence is essential to keep you from stumbling.  By staying close to ME, you present yourself as a living sacrifice.  Even the routine part of your day can be a spiritual act of worship, holy and pleasing to Me. And my healing is complete.     - God 

Genesis 2.7, Psalm 89.15, Romans 12. 1-2

Prayer is from Jesus Calling devotional - but I added the last line!

Humbled - Michelle


If this blog stirred up something, or you need prayer, or you just want to confirm that THIS was needed within your walk this day - please leave a comment.  I thank you.

Michelle 

...doing the HARD part --

I have something to share.
Life is NOT easy.

I have prayed with many women.  Some have become closer.  Some are transient.   Some have rejected what God has said through me.  Others are in my life for a season and then God moves them.   Some become so dear to me because I am able to see GOD move within their lives and I am watching changes occur.

Many have had some sort of pain or struggle and are searching and seeking GOD for answers.

Often I will say this...."even when my husband and I were separated - it was very hard and I wanted our family whole, but the TRUE 'harder' part came after he moved back home.  THEN the restoration began and the counsel started and THAT was really the harder part".

It just is.

But God is faithful. God heals.  God gives us the 'sustaining' power when we are in the middle of a season or crisis of faith.

Many times the reason for the crisis is just me.   So you may be in a PIT.   I mean -- I have put myself into a PIT, other times we are dumped into a PIT and still ...sometimes the PIT we slide into is just life.  Getting out of that PIT is the HARDER work.

Getting OUT of that PIT is HIS best work...HE brings beauty out of the ashes.

 As you come OUT of that PIT - what does it look like?

1.  It looks like  - being a part of a church family that will love on you and pray with you and stand in the gap and help you believe in miracles.
2.  It looks like --  seeking  godly counsel.    Come UNDER the authority of a Pastor(s)  that will be your shepherd.  Seek a bible study or a Cell group when other women can come along side of you and help.
3.  It looks like  - time alone in your bible, reading Psalms and the gospels over and over until the words are taken into your heart and bring life.
4.  It looks like  - taping scripture verses of life all over your mirror or your door frame  before you walk out to work and then memorize those verses and claim them.
5.  It looks like - time on your knees in  prayer - giving honor and thanks to our Heavenly Father for ALL the good that HAS come, and stating WHAT is asked for- In Jesus name.
4.  It looks like - red eyes at times......maybe sitting in front of the TV watching a classic Disney movie to take your mind off of your troubles.....maybe it means that YOU get up off the couch and look for someone else to pour into -- or maybe it means that you seriously consider some professional counsel.
5.  It looks like - a song - celebration - putting on some LOUD praise and worship music and giving yourself time to let the words wash over your spirit and speak to you ...and then singing and singing that song or chorus over and over and over again - whenever the enemy attacks.
6.  Sometimes for me it meant punching a punching bag at the person or situation that I was mad at and many times -- it ended up that I was mad at God or myself....but each time, HE forgave me.
7.  It looks  different for EACH person.

 But...YOU can figure it out -- YOU can come out of that PIT!

If you love Jesus - Satan hates you.
Marriages are constantly being attacked.
Why does it seem that 'others' have it easier?   Maybe we need to look a bit deeper into those lives....satan does not have to attack those that already serve him.
Consequences of actions  - sometimes don't go away, but they can be dealt with and acknowledged.
Feelings will be expressed but we should not walk out our faith in our 'feelings'...but in our FAITH.
Addictions can sometimes ONLY be addressed -- when the person afflicted finally WANTS to seek help.
And finally -- the PAIN won't kill you .....walking in faith and walking out restoration of a marriage...or restoration of a life....or transitioning to a new position that GOD has called you to....may feel weird and awkward for a bit....but YOU can overcome!

1 Corinthians 13 says...

⁴ Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

THIS is the LOVE that God has for us...and we are to Share and SHOW that love to others....

⁸ Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. ⁹ For we know in part and we prophesy in part, ¹⁰ but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. ¹¹ When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. ¹² For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

IF you have accepted Christ then you are saved.  Many get saved and remain a 'baby' in Christ.  Now as you grow ...God is asking you and I to RISE up and be more of a toddler...a young adult...and learn -- SEEK HIM and believe that HIS plans are to help us  - not to harm.  

I wrote this today -- cause there are a few women that I am thinking of but I am so sure there are a few more that read this blog that needed to hear this too.....

I do believe that many times we want a QUICK fix - we come to church, seek a prayer and expect a quick answer and ALL will be AOK and back to normal.  But that is not how it works 90% of the time.....I believe that many times, we give up or give in RIGHT before the blessing was to come.  

I remember 'debating' with God many nights..."if you will do this....then I will.....".  It was a reoccurring and common dialogue with HIM.  However, after several weeks of that and being in church and relearning HIS word -- I knew that when I began to debate with my Heavenly Father, I could now hear myself say, "ya...I know...YOU have to trust me Lord to love you even in the next sad time...no matter what...I must praise YOU".  And I believe God's timing was LONG...but it was really contingent upon my heart...and my head...and my obedience to surrender.   

So -  

Don't give up -- if you are praying for an unsaved spouse - GOD is at work - your prayers for that spouse are being heard.  

Don't give up -- if you are praying for a family member that is - at this moment - allowing the spirit of addiction to overcome, then YOU can intercede and proclaim healing even when it looks hopeless.  Nothing is impossible with God.  

Don't give up -- if you are not spending time reading God's word and placing the ARMOR of God around you -- then, these attacks are going to feel like they will overcome you - but YOU are the OVERCOMER.  YOU are the head and not the tail....GOD wants you to rise up and claim your healing, acknowledge ALL that HE has already done and believe that HE is still at work.  

Don't give up -- for the one suffering a major loss....GOD is RIGHT there with you and HE does understand.  

Don't give up -- for the one contemplating divorce  -- make sure GOD has released you.  I will say this, every time I would utter the words out of my mouth, "God, please end this...just end my pain and let me move on".....God would have the right person in front of me to remind me of HIS call to me.   God was very clear in giving me instructions.  I could not deny it.  I knew that I knew .....I was to fight for my marriage.  And when I wanted to quit -- it was usually  my Pastor stating, "chell, did God tell you it was ok to quit?", and each time I had to look at him and say - "NO."  

As I said, many times we all say, 'God's timing' ...but I have come to the conclusion we have MORE to do with that ....as it is our hearts that must change and THEN HE can do the work on the other party, or the circumstance, or whatever!  

So with that - I pray now that whom ever was to read this today -- I pray you will get the encouragement you needed to PRESS on...and wait on HIM and believe that as you WALK OUT your HARD part -- there will be joy in the morning....God knows.  Amen.  

By the way -- Kerrie Roberts has a song - 'No matter what'...Find it - sing it 10x. today. 
Mercy Me has the song ' Beautiful ' - find it - sing it, believe it.  


God is telling you -- YOU WERE made for so much more -- hang on!   - humbled, michelle 

God WINS...SAME Blog...NEW direction.....amen!

So,  my previous blog was titled....WisGalinOkee.
It stood for Wisconsin gal ( girl ) in Okeechobee.

When I started this blog it was a "Tumbler Account" and I have always wanted to write a book. Tumbler was another form of blogging media. I then had to move or switch to a Blogger account because of space.  I did not think I would write that much ....but 2 summers ago --
I spent a good amount of time and printed off all of my blogs..and well -- I have enough material for 4 books.

So I write a bunch!

I started off just writing general stuff. I tried to be funny.  That really did not work...
Then I would blog/write about my family and Post stuff like:   44 ways I love...and incorporate that into a Happy Birthday Post.  People enjoyed that -- come to think of it - I need to do that a bit more often.

I even  have 4 other blogs -- I started a GIRLS with SWORDS blog...but that idea or door closed.  I did a BATTLEFIELD of the MIND blog and participated with my sister in an on-line bible study that was awesome but many women are too afraid to put their 'thoughts' out there. It was awesome to be with my sister 1400 miles away and share thoughts about each chapter...but, it was just that - notes about each chapter.  God did not call that into something 'big'.

Then my walk with God changed.
God did not 'slap' me in the face or anything  -- God just revealed stuff.

And a Crisis of Faith made me sit up  -- and I had  to LEARN to walk with God.
And I blogged with a different head and heart. I blogged with a cautious intent.
I believe and know that I always blogged with the Holy Spirit sitting by my fingers - helping my brain to formulate the content.
This blog has been therapy....it has been life...and it has brought  other women to me - other women that walked a similar walk...and wanted HOPE.

Some posts have been HARD, many have brought LIFE to others and HOPE.
Several times I have messed up.

One such mess up was a week ago when I blogged in pure frustration--something  that had been building up within me and I posted it.  I went to bed.    Immediately the follow morning, I was convicted. I deleted it.  Unfortunately, over 80 people had already read it.
 The Holy Spirit spoke....so clearly to me.  I really did know when I was a typing that it was not for the 'public' so I asked God, I begged God to really protect it.  However, it hurt a few.

Let me explain something....

 Back in November of 2011, the Lord called me to put forth 40 days of prayer for a Secret Sister.  I got the idea in a dream and I awoke fresh and knew that I knew I was to pray for her - for 40 days.  I was able to watch something change in her.  It gave me some courage and God used it to teach me how important prayer for others is.  Now, I knew this -- I have been a prayer warrior for many years now for the ones within my own family -- but to see something change in another right before me -- that was not  family -- was  thrilling.

 God used that time to change me as well as I leaned on the Holy Spirit.   Then, I had another period of time where I blogged 40 days again for my Sisters in Christ.    Again,   God brought several  women to my blog site.  Several women confirmed their need for the words I shared.  ( It really is God.)   I asked the Holy Spirit to write and He did..He does.  Within the last 6 months,
 God asked me to post 40 days of prayers for marriages and wow -- several of my posts got over 200 hits.

I posted the other day about meekness and I got my first comment from a total stranger -- and I believe they are from another state.

Blogging is a form of social media.  Blogging is therapy.  There is NO right or wrong to blogging but once something is written in print - it is there forever.

 Over the past 4 years, I have  gained MUCH help and knowledge in reading blogs of other  ladies.  Some, as they went through the trials and tribulations of their walk with God; others, as they just spoke about their lives and their family.  And some about their walk in  their  marriage...and I even have shared and recommended a few blogs that SPEAK LIFE.

Sometimes the subjects are touchy and hurtful or maybe hard to read.   And sometimes, even when I try my best to NOT get too personal -- it spills.

Almost 4 years ago, God revealed something to me and my world changed -- and it changed for the BETTER.  Then about a week later,   a servant of God  told me  that it would take 4 years ...for healing to occur.    ( because of the Earthquake  )  I  marvel at how, the Holy Spirit,  has reminded me of this in the past week.  At the time, I refused to believe  it would  take THAT long...I did.  I rebuttled right away and told him straight out - "no, God told me 9 months".

 God did tell me  9 months,  it  turns out, it was nine months until I went to my God Encounter Weekend and there -- God did a work on my heart and head.

 But I have blogged about that -- but what I do want to say, is that - over and over, in my blogging, I  have asked God to be my Editor and HE has 'deleted' several blogs before I ever linked them to a public forum.  However, I have to learn the hard way at times.

I am an EVER changing Christian woman who LOVES God and WANTS only HIS best for me...my husband....my children...and my church family and friends...and of course for my very OWN family-- distant and close...and extended family too.

But I would NEVER want to hurt or harm any of them!

Pastor Dave spoke today on our tongue.  He confirmed in me this NEW direction.  I have been asking God for the past 2 weeks...as I felt an 'itching'.  I knew the '4 year' healing prophesy was about to come to pass....and I so WANT to give ALL glory to God...for HIS healing as HE has won ...in my life.  And there was a healing...a real healing almost 2 years ago,  healing is continual.  But, this '4 year mark'....has some significance.

 He has WON in my marriage.  God has won.   He has WON in my family..and HE is winning...in the lives of the church family  that I have come to love and worship with.

The tongue can bring death.
The tongue can bring life.
From the heart --- is WHAT comes out of my tongue.

From this point on....I want to make sure that I am constantly speaking LIFE.
I have to model for the women that I mentor and counsel....that we MUST speak LIFE into our homes...into our relationships...and into our children.

My husband reads my blogs  but I would never want people to assume or associate  that what I am praying for - or what I blog about ............ is some new family crisis or
                         ... or would I want it to cause another to gossip
                        ...nor would I want it to cause embarrassment!

And 25 years from now, I don't want my very smart granddaughter come to me and say, "G-mommy -- is it true that you had a problem with _________".  See what I am saying?

Beth Moore is my mentor when it come to blogging.  I followed her blog when it started and she blogged almost every 3 days.  I lived off of it.  She was, like,  IN my head.   At that time, I was soaking up EACH and EVERY Beth Moore study that I could find.  And as she would blog, she was always allowing you into her head and heart - but she was always careful NOT to give glory the enemy.

So, ( Like Beth MOORE - my favorite blogger )  I will seek God's perfect EDITING button and choose words more wisely.

The past is the past.

A dear friend was a part of  God's confirmation just a few days ago -- she stated, "chell...when I see you and see your family...I don't see the past 7-10 years..I see NOW".

That was God speaking...as with HIM...we are NEW creations!

Part of God speaking to me was a visit from a mother yesterday.  She had  her two children and they loved and adored her and she loved and adored them.  I could tell.  She walked them to our 'open house' so their faces could be painted.  ( Our Ins. Office, had a 'grand opening' in Moore Haven this past Saturday. )   Both children picked out what they wanted ON their faces and we made conversation.   They sat still as I painted.  Their mom  smiled and smiled.  And I could not help but see her smile.  And I noticed something.

Now please---as she walked away, my heart sank....I saw the consequences of her youth.  I could assume or infer that she - at one time - used drugs.  Her smile displayed it.  And I was so convicted.... praise God that we don't walk around with the reminders ...and the visible scars of our past.

Praise God that no one can see the  WHAT...that would be ALL over me.

I do wish, that I had a resource to help her...smile with a new smile.  And I asked God to make a way -- maybe that I would see her again,  find a resource, and  help her fix that smile. If God wants that and if HE wants me to be a part of that - I believe HE will make it happen.

However --
I realized at that moment - briefly - that God does NOT look at our past and praise God.  I mean -- I KNOW that... I hear that preached...I remind other of that!  But those surreal moments come and you are like HIT with the revelation and it seems like you just learned it for the first time.

 HE  sees us -- as if we NEVER sinned.  Praise God for His son, Jesus who made it possible.

John 3.16 says --

¹⁶ For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life

I believe that the BEST life...is knowing that Jesus came..and took away the sin of the world.  

Jesus is the ONE way to heaven -- HE is the soul person that died for me sins.  

He went to that cross...know EXACTLY what I was going to do...knowing exactly WHAT I did..and he already knows my sins of the future...and HE still said I was worth it - and HE opened those gates to heaven.  

I want to speak Life.  

Proverbs 18.21 says...the tongue has the power to speak life or death...

Proverbs 12.18 says reckless words pierce like  sword - but the wise tongue can bring healing...

Proverbs 11.13 says a gossip betrays...

Proverbs 15.4 says a soothing tongue is like a tree of life but a deceitful tongue crushes...

1 Peter 3.10 speaks about speaking peace and life....

Psalm 45.1 talks about beautiful words that stir a heart...

Psalm 141.3 speaks about taking control of what I say and for God to GUARD my lips....

So it is with that -- this blog takes a new turn.

If you have been reading my blog for the past 3 years...you will notice the difference.

If you are a new reader -- then I pray you will continue to read and I pray this BLOG speaks LIFE to you....

If you need individual prayer or want to speak about something...please inbox me privately on Facebook.
 If you wish to leave a comment to encourage me or another - Please DO.  You don't have to leave your name.  I moderate all comments.

And question my words...filter them through God's Holy Word.

God wins.

One last thought....God is creative and HE uses any PIT that we are dumped into, or any PIT  that we DIVE into ourselves,    and sometimes I think we give the enemy too much credit. Sometimes a  PIT can form when we allow a puddle to just get bigger and bigger  and all of  a sudden we need -- LIFE  happens and   grace is needed  to get up and move beyond it.

God wants us to TRIVE - not just survive.
God wants to heal, restore, and redeem.
God wants HIS best for you -- if you have taken a difficult path -- or rejected HIM...or even put YOUR OWN self into a PIT....HE is the God of second chances.

Amen.


 I am humbled - excited about where this blog will lead me next...and can't wait to blog again.

- michelle

The SANDY FActor....

Sandy is a lady that taught me something.  

The FIRST SANDY is my mom...she is going to get a separate blog VERY soon - with Mother's Day a coming.  She has taught me MANY things...from how to sew on a button  to how to darn a sock.  YeS....I can darn a sock!  And My MOM is probably the BEST cheerleader I have -- but as I said, I will share more later -- next blog post. -- MOM, if you are reading this -please just wait!  LOL. 

The SANDY FACTOR refers to another Sandy. Sandy #2.  

Her name is Sandy Alford and she is from Indiana.  Today - she is in need of some mighty prayers again - as she faces some back surgery.  

Let me explain.  In my pain and pathetic state almost four  years  ago, I would drag my  butt to church and each Sunday walk up for prayer, cry, break down, and believe  THAT God was going to heal and restore my family.  It became a regular thing.  I was pathetic....I grabbed at the people who were showing me hope.   Some Sundays I just could not walk back to my pew and stayed sitting there on the first row - sobbing.  I just did not want to look backwards at anyone.   One Sunday, in January, just after Christmas, the Enemy really lied.  That morning he continued to tell me that I did not need to go forward...nothing was changing... I could pray from my pew.. people were sick of me walking up there, crying and looking all pathetic.  And I believed the Enemy.  I did. 

I sat in my pew, head down, tears falling out of my eyes and just asked God again,   .....why?.......

Sandy is in Red and her husband is right behind her! 

After only a few moments, a beautiful lady came up to me, put her arm around me and said,  "Your name is Michelle right?".  And I looked up at her through my blurry eyes, and shook my head yes.  I had no words.  And she said, "you don't know me, but I know you.  I have been praying for you for months, my name is Sandy and I am here to tell you that God loves you and HE is going to heal your marriage".  I just melted.  She was mom, grandma, and best friend all wrapped into one and she had such a belief that it could happen.  She ENCOURAGED me.  She helped me hold on, one more day.  She spoke LIFE into my weary heart.  

The next weekend came and again, I sat in my pew and she joined me and prayed.  The next---I went forward but would not actually go up for prayer and she came to me.  Again... The Sandy Factor.  Everytime I saw her, she just held me and prayed and believed that my husband was a good man and that God was dealing with him and that he would be the man I needed him to be.  Her hope, her hopefullness was contagious.  The Sandy Factor.  That particular winter, she and her husband stayed almost 4 months and I know...that was just GOD being sweet to me.  

She continued to pray,  she'd call me and then I began to meet with her at a cell group each Tuedsay.  We prayed often, I cried when she went back 'home'  later in that spring season  and I looked forward to her winter visit again.  She  never met my husband,  then, but had prayed for him for over a year... can you believe that?  That is a human...being Jesus to me.  That was God. 

(She continues to pray for him.)  She returned that next winter and 'stuff' was changing within my household as we had moved  and we met for prayer often but she did not meet my husband that winter.  She met him the next.... and WOW was it a cool thing.  This past winter, because she had some back surgery - she could only come to Florida for a month.  I got to pray with her a few times -- but I WATCHED my Pastor call her up forward and pray with another lady one Sunday  and I knew...she was ENCOURAGING another woman with a wayward son.  

I  had coined it ...'the SANDY Factor'...  When Sandy was here just this last winter, I introduced her to my 'SANDY FACTORites'....those whom I was BOLDLY claiming victory for.  

 I want to be  a SANDY  to others...   In the past year, God has given me several opportunities to SPEAK life into other women and be SANDY to them. 

  And today....as I prayed with a sweet sister in Christ, I reminded her that ONE day...she and HER HUSBAND would be doing the EXACT thing to another couple...that THAT is what God does.  

HE allows such a crisis, HE trusts us enough to pull through stronger and so in LOVE with HIM, that HE can use us...not necessarily 'rehash' the pain...but to ENCOURAGE!  

The Past is the past, praise God.  Another friend said to me today, "when I see you and your family ..the yuck DOES not even register...it is like it NEVER happened".  Wow - that touched me.  

That is what HIS people see in others that serve Him...we SEE the new creations...we don't SEE the past.  God - that was SUCH healing today.   ( And God used a dear sweet pal that also spoke life into me ...and still does.  )  

Lord,  bless the original Sandy right now, thank you for her love for you and her new friends.   Bless her Lord, - as she is my mom and she GAVE me LIFE with YOU..and she speaks life into many ...the 9 children with their spouses and then the 20+ grands...Lord, I pray right now that the Sandy #1 would realize and understand the love to WHICH -- the path that YOU are....THAT you are indeed God, Savior and Holy Spirit...Lord, I thank you for my mom...And God I pray for Sandy #2 - right now Lord, prepare the hospital...the doctors..and her muscles and body systems, that she would NOT need a blood transfusion, that THIS surgery will take and that, she will return this next winter - walking and full of life...to bless others.  She is far too YOUNG to be bed-ridden yet.  And God, I pray for the people I KNOW she is speaking LIFE to in Indiana.  

God I thank you for using her - to teach me HOW to speak life into others..how to be that encourager...and Lord, I have to say -- I have said and done a few PRETTY crazy things...like believe and tell another to 'hold off on divorce papers'  when it certainly SEEMS like it won't work....but yet...it does..and it did again and I will publically thank YOU Lord for the eyes that have been opened in the M/ R couple. -- GOD - THAT Could ONLY be you...She  ( M ) gets  a kick out of quoting me Lord -- but THAT is YOUR doing - all you - take me OUT of it Lord...as there is MUCH more restoration and healing to occur  but..I know that I know that as she continues to allow YOU to be first...You will reward the rest... and he too will be that godly man and she will introduce him  to Sandy #2 when she visits this next winter ! 

Lord, bring others to my path, I want to be 'sandy' to them.  I thank you for the blessing it is, to pray with another and SEE it answered -- God that JOY ...it is unsinkable...

I love you Lord, Thanks. 

 humbled, MIchelle

I want what you want Lord... Matthew 6.33.

When has God used you to be 'sandy' to another?  Please share it with me...if you would like... make a comment!  Thanks. 

The MEEK will inherit the earth...am I meek?

Christian Character is formed NOT by outward compulsion but by inward COMPASSION.

I want to be meek.  Did some study on this and shared it with some sweet ladies -- have to share on this blog too so I can come back and read it again and again.

Webster's Dictionary says being meek is being humbly patient or compliant, spiritless and tame
Most contemporary translations in the bible changed meek into gentleness and humility.

The King James version of Galatians 5.22-23 uses the work meekness....as a fruit of the spirit.

Galatians 5:22-23

King James Version (KJV)

²² But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

²³ Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

The New Living Translation says...

Galatians 5:22-23

New Living Translation (NLT)

²² But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

The New Living Translation uses the work gentleness -- 

There are many and many more studies and articles about the Fruits of the Spirit. 

I found this in a commentary by Matthew Henry that  the original work MEEK as it was intended in the GREEK ....is not merely a natural virtue but a Christian 'grace'.

It clearly states in Matthew --

Matthew 5:5
New International Version (NIV)⁵ 

Blessed are the meek,    for they will inherit the earth.

There are two essential components for this quality to come into play in the Bible: a conflict, in which an individual is unable to control or influence circumstances and then we'd get frustrated and maybe bitter and angry, but the one who is guided by God's spirit accepts God's ability to direct events.  And then two -- an action.   Meekness is therefore an active and deliberate acceptance of undesirable circumstances ...that are only part of a bigger picture.  

In the Greek, this word when applied to animals makes  clear,  it means 'tame' when applied to wild animals  - such animals have NOT lost their strength but have learned to control the destructive instincts that prevent them from living in harmony with others.   

So, like a wild horse that has to be broken...as we allow the fruit of meekness, then we are broken before Him and then 'tamed' for service for Him.  We have GREAT power.

The Spirit of the meek Christian is not broken but broken in and harnessed for service.  

Meekness is calm confidence. 

Meekness is settled assurance. 

Meekness is a rest of the soul in a place of peace. 

Meekness spring from a heart of humility.  

With meekness we can rest in storms...See Matthew 11. 28-30

Others wil be fearful - See Mark 4. 35-41 but those with Meekness will react with peace and trust...See  Isaiah 26. 3-4

And... when fretful or fearful people try to manipulate, see James 4. 1-3 - a person with meekness makes ALL life choices based on Psalm 119.105. 

HIS word is a LIGHT unto my feet.

I can write and list at least 10 more illustrations where fretful people.....but meek people.....

I believe MEEKNESS is vital for a marriage...for a relationship with a co-worker, a character trait to be taught to our children and practiced.  

I did not realize HOW important it was to be meek.   And the other fruit of SELF- Control is RIGHT there will it.  God listed it last...sort of like a 'summary' in a sense.  

Without Self-Control ...the other Fruits of the Spirit can be unused or misused. 

Love can become saccharine sentimentality - 

Joy becomes heady euphoria - 

Peace become complacency - 

Patience become leniency - 

Kindness becomes blandness - 

Goodness becomes self-righteousness - 

Faithfulness becomes slavishness - and 

              Gentleness becomes weakness.  

Christian Character is formed not by outward compulsion but my inward compassion. Not by legal regulation but by spiritual reformation.  It is the Holy Spirit who lives within me...lives within you...If you are filled with the Holy Spirit, you will produce the fruits of the Spirit as surely as an apple trees bears fruit!  It will happen. 

Be Meek.  

Lord,  as I come to you I pray -- show me if I am 1/4, 1/5, or even a 2%...into  my 'meekness' level.  Lord, I want to be 100% sold into You ...and displaying the meekness you so stated in YOUR word.   Lord, I thank you for this lesson and what it has taught me.  God as the ladies in our Cell group heard the lesson - may it be knowledge for them to help them LIVE according to YOUR will with such joy! 

Lord, I pray that I will be humble and meek..towards my husband, my children, and then my church and school families...Lord, I pray that anyone reading this will stop, reflect and ask themselves - do I need a meekness check up?  Am I meek? 

 Lord, I am not timid or mousy, I believe I am 'tamed' and under control.  Lord, meekness is FAR too often confused with weakness -- If I am strong enough to inherit the earth ( See Matthew 5.5 )...then, I am capable of displaying meekness to  my fellow warriors.  Lord, I pray I will be meek in all circumstances but mostly I pray that I will be a Spirit - filled Christian that is meek before GOD.  God I continue to ask you to bless this blog as I write...it is such therapy and healing and I pray it will be a good lesson to the one that reads it as well.  In Jesus name.  Lord, I pray  that as You TAME me...I yield.  Amen.

Meekness..Humble...I can tell you this - this safety course ( which I passed ) was the HARDEST thing
I ever did and it HUMBLED me!!!  BUT now I have this 'power'..I have a legal cycle
license...wow...'tamed' -- with power and ready to serve!

I think I crossed over...

There is a song by Jars of Clay called... Love Song for my Savior.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJ_XEt1QpYg

My Room at my Encounter Weekend

Here is the Link to watch a video with the words on it.  It is a song that I love, and have song and have memorized years ago.

When I first got the album and read the lyrics, I could not 'understand' the entire song.
There is a part that says....'seems to easy to call you a Savior, not close enough to call you God'.

I knew I was not 'in love' with God.  How would that look and feel?

As I would sing that song, the Holy Spirit would convict me - I knew -- that Jesus did save me and I believed that and knew I was in the Lamb's Book of LIfe....but I did not have the relationship with God  that I knew I was suppose to have.

But I got busy.  I stayed busy.  I did a lot of things that seemed very 'godly' and they were.

I really tried -  the best that I KNEW  was possible.  YOU see - I just did not understand.  And then I allowed idolatry to really set its claws in.  I had strongholds - many ---- but I would of told you every reason as to 'why' they were not strongholds.  But truth be told -- I had only a shallow understanding and knowledge of My LORD.

But.... God changed that.  ( read other blogs..LOL )

That song does not play on the radio too often anymore and I seldom listen to CD's in my car cause of XM radio but it was on the radio yesterday along with a few other oldies and this morning as well.

And, I realized something -- I HAD CROSSED over....

I now KNOW HIM close enough to call him GOD!

And come to think of it -- that transpired several years ago -- but as I You tubed the song and watched several different videos of the song and reread the words and sang....I was tremendously inspired and reminded.....THAT is what I want for the others around me.

Falling in Love is a lot easier when you realize
WHAT was done on the Cross. 

I can see 'that' in others...you can tell...WHEN God is their first love.  You just can.  And you can see when it is not.

'Elohim'. .....'Jevohah'....... 'Lord'....'Savior'.....



Another verse says, "she'll try to love HIM...try to TRUST Him".....I get that.
Another verse says, "breaking the chains of their souls".....I have seen chains broken.




Another...."sitting silent in their Sunday best".....oh my ...there are SO many LOST out there - sitting silently...even in church.....

"I want to fall in love with you"....that is another line of the song.


God, praise Your name that I have crossed over.  Lord, may I continue to seek and grow closer to you.  Lord, I pray for the one reading this -- if she is not in Love with you - God I pray she will dig deep and figure it out.....Lord, I know you don't punish to 'shedule' life struggle or crisis  within our path to TEACH us stuff...but You do allow stuff to enter as You know it will draw us close to You.  And Lord, we also understand that  -- Your character is always good and loving -- the frustrations we experience could also be from our own sin and its consequences.  Lord, I pray that all the women and family around me - understand this song...Lord, I pray we will all sing a Love Song for YOU. Lord I pray Hunter will sing a long song to you, I pray Taylor will sing a love song to you ...and I pray that Brendan will sing a love song to you -- Lord, I pray - YOUR will be done.  God I pray that my actions and my desires are always pleasing to You - that I bring you as much JOY as I feel when I SEE you at work within my life...and through my life...and when I am doing YOUR will.  Amen.

Humbled...Michelle