tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36014555469396038132024-03-22T06:00:31.983-05:00 Bonita Y. McCoyBonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.comBlogger13125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-5969708947521007662024-03-22T06:00:00.004-05:002024-03-22T06:00:00.253-05:00Time is Precious <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5nMRHxEsH-UCP_84TSrSxIXpKuOXzJPdFuldbcLhGAsvs4nBH3RDUVuW89jNaAb_Dqpc61tEqYB9cXLXZWq1etkbGEduYveZr8paJV7aDqXl0tXVxjrcDJrHb027sDz0VhEeAzuUEwwtbSWkA8FEfIZMqvte18MLIlSY9_YtF2qMJ1b_k8CyeMR0WaMg/s1280/clock-3179167_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5nMRHxEsH-UCP_84TSrSxIXpKuOXzJPdFuldbcLhGAsvs4nBH3RDUVuW89jNaAb_Dqpc61tEqYB9cXLXZWq1etkbGEduYveZr8paJV7aDqXl0tXVxjrcDJrHb027sDz0VhEeAzuUEwwtbSWkA8FEfIZMqvte18MLIlSY9_YtF2qMJ1b_k8CyeMR0WaMg/w400-h266/clock-3179167_1280.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p style="clear: both;"><i>So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.</i></p><p></p><p style="clear: both;"><i>Ephesians 5:15-17</i></p><p></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Time is a precious commodity - one, once spent, we do not get back.</p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now, that I'm drawing closer to sixty, I'm re-evaluating how I'm spending these last years. I'm not thinking so much about retirement activities though my hubby and I do love a good adventure. </p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My focus is more on the day to day activities that eat up so many of my hours. </p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Are they worth my precious limited time? Are they God honoring? Or do they compromise my beliefs, or worst yet, waste the hours I've been given?</p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've heard it said, "The years are long, but the days are short." I believe there is some truth in that.</p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My battle has always been with practicing moderation and making good choices, especially when it comes to my biggest time waster, the television. It's been a long struggle a true love-hate relationship. Now, with a plethora of streaming services, I allow compromise where I never would with books or music.</p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This industry used to monitor and rate what it produced, but now, it seems as if the ratings differ from service to service. And what at one time would have been considered unsuitable for a sixteen-year-old is now permissible.</p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, this spring as the weather warms and the birds sing, I'm going to exercise my ability to choose and my prowess for moderation. I know these attributes aren't popular, but my time is limited. And if I am to do all that the Lord has for me, I must have open ears and available time.</p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Our Father, Creator of Time,</i></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Thank you for all the days You have given me. I know I can rest in Your plan for my life. Help me to walk wisely each day and to make good decisions about how to use my time based on Your Word and direction. Let me practice moderation, so that no one thing becomes bigger in my life than You.</i></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>In Jesus' name, amen. </i></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></p><br /><p></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-61180069673604759652024-01-19T06:00:00.005-06:002024-03-04T12:58:23.257-06:00Daily Bread<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw4TurAYpu3eAJKfxVqNg9v7U0_uCFyrST1Qpbsinfj3zqNuDN7CnVkegX_wLewl2Bs4hXkFBYDnqPGOlI_8QyhVw1a9MIhW_tYbYPNC5LvpinVfTUYjfXZWUVEuHlJJoAZpOYmwssBVABFin-RObs16ssHhN5f4Y6p_jNTFB-opRysp4mv5dbd9_fT80/s1280/loaf-7403451_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw4TurAYpu3eAJKfxVqNg9v7U0_uCFyrST1Qpbsinfj3zqNuDN7CnVkegX_wLewl2Bs4hXkFBYDnqPGOlI_8QyhVw1a9MIhW_tYbYPNC5LvpinVfTUYjfXZWUVEuHlJJoAZpOYmwssBVABFin-RObs16ssHhN5f4Y6p_jNTFB-opRysp4mv5dbd9_fT80/w400-h300/loaf-7403451_1280.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;"> Daily Bread</h2><div><br /></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Moses said to them, “It is the bread the Lord has given
you to eat.”</i> Exodus 16:15b (NIV)<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">(Jesus prayed) <i>Give us this day our daily bread.</i>
Matt. 6:11 (NKJV)<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Throughout the Bible, God uses our physical needs to point
us to our need of Him.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">God had freed the Israelites from the Egyptians in a great
show of His might and power. First there were all the plagues. Then, He parted
the Red Sea. And if that wasn’t enough, He placed a cloud in front of them to
lead them by day and a pillar of fire by night. God left no doubt that He was
in the midst of His people. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">And Yet … <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I must admit I often fall into the yet category. Yet I doubt,
fear, and yes, grumble against the Lord. Unsure of how He’s ever going to
provide in the middle of my present circumstances. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">From the time of Israel’s redemption from Egypt to the time
of Jesus’s redemption of our souls, people had not changed. They still doubted God’s
ability to provide what was needed. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Thank goodness, our wonderful savior, God incarnate
understood our propensity to let our emotions drive our belief and taught us to
pray “Give us this day our daily bread.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Some days are so much harder than others. Perhaps, you have
left what was comfortable and familiar and have followed God into something new
and different. Or the day that faces you seems buried in overwhelming heart
ache and decisions. But on those days, you can pray “Give me this day, O Lord,
my daily bread. Provide what is needed.” Then wrap your arms around His promise
to be in the middle of all of it with you.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>Dear Father,<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>Thank you that Jesus understood our needs and taught us
to pray for our daily bread. I embrace the promise that You never leave me nor
forsake me. Wrap Your arms around me and thank You that Jesus is the Bread of
Life. I look to You to provide each day what is needed. <o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>In Jesus’ name, amen. <o:p></o:p></i></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-42580261694555336932023-12-21T08:00:00.002-06:002024-03-04T12:58:55.826-06:00O Come, O Come, Emmanuel<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij1O027M6uKz6huORSKWU3QQr15eazxbHHG5c1Fg0LdNMoKSpSfKntqFF7oHx8jHJz5vUBvYS6YkFkAQw8MBY4_dRLX5H1Mntn_EiKjCg_58ynGCQg5zX0Tn8BjDj5XuZAXVpCkDmP0W9HR8628dGqrlL2Na1vu1WaR7J2aYtXFZ4Mu65mCveMMV2xEVE/s828/BookBrushImage-2023-12-5-13-497.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="828" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij1O027M6uKz6huORSKWU3QQr15eazxbHHG5c1Fg0LdNMoKSpSfKntqFF7oHx8jHJz5vUBvYS6YkFkAQw8MBY4_dRLX5H1Mntn_EiKjCg_58ynGCQg5zX0Tn8BjDj5XuZAXVpCkDmP0W9HR8628dGqrlL2Na1vu1WaR7J2aYtXFZ4Mu65mCveMMV2xEVE/w640-h245/BookBrushImage-2023-12-5-13-497.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /> A Latin hymn translated by John M. Neale<p></p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">"O come, Desire of nations,</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">bind all peoples in one heart and mind.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Bid envy, strife, and quarrels cease;</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Fill the whole world with heaven's peace.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Rejoice, Rejoice!</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Emmanuel shall come to thee, Israel."</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">We celebrate the birth of Emmanuel, God with us. And we rejoice for the forgiveness of our sins. A way made for us through the blood of Jesus on the cross.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Now, we rejoice to see Him return a second time!</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This season, let us pray for Israel, the salvation of all who are lost, and for Emmanuel to come.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Merry Christmas and God's blessing this season,</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Bonita Y. McCoy</span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-70062876524345708102023-11-17T13:16:00.002-06:002024-03-04T12:59:27.869-06:00In Every Thing Give Thanks<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6O71dReHVS1TmyyGApBgwqvPU_dNXu6yyJpAHMypwvslkQGeLwXhdT68r34-Ab3hhjDE1-ACPVC9Xiw9zGR2CKTSpL8nffmcKNCDkGbFte3XdRBPinEp0VKvGr8_ACnl5B0d4vZqmhXpo_IgbIhoiQ9O1cby0reH9hypxEp99f8vR5slM4ho7fot4A0/s5600/Depositphotos_88975830_XL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3733" data-original-width="5600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6O71dReHVS1TmyyGApBgwqvPU_dNXu6yyJpAHMypwvslkQGeLwXhdT68r34-Ab3hhjDE1-ACPVC9Xiw9zGR2CKTSpL8nffmcKNCDkGbFte3XdRBPinEp0VKvGr8_ACnl5B0d4vZqmhXpo_IgbIhoiQ9O1cby0reH9hypxEp99f8vR5slM4ho7fot4A0/w400-h266/Depositphotos_88975830_XL.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><div><i>In every thing give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. </i></div><div>1Thessalonians 5:18 </div><div><br /></div><div>Giving thanks is a spiritual exercise. When you practice the act of giving thanks to God, it's like going to the gym and strengthening a muscle . And like the gym, it takes commitment and determination. We have to make up our minds to be thankful.</div><p>In today's crazy, tense, wound-up world, focusing on the negative comes too easy for most of us. But a step back to some basic truths of the Christian faith can help us exercise our muscle of thankfulness and put our focus back on the promises of God.</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>God is Almighty - all knowing, all powerful, ever present, all loving (Psalm 91:1-2)</li><li>Jesus is His son, our savior - in Him we are completely forgiven (John 14:6)</li><li>The Holy Spirit abides with us to teach and guide us, sealing us as His redeemed(2 Corinth. 1:22)</li><li>We are never forsaken (Hebrews 13:5)</li><li>We will be resurrected (Romans 6:5-6)</li><li>We will have everlasting life (John 5:24)</li></ul><div>In light of these gifts, how can we be silent. Our hearts and lips must ring with thanksgiving! </div><div><br /></div><div>This month and throughout the rest of the year, let's exercise our thankful muscle, remembering that even when the world is upside down and backwards, God still provides everything His children need.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><i>Dear Father,</i></div><div><i>Your gifts are too wonderful for me to even completely understand. Eternity and everlasting life are beyond my grasp. But I thank you for them. Guide me as I endeavor to practice thanksgiving not just this month but throughout the years to come. For everything you have given to me make me truly grateful.</i></div><div><i>In Jesus' name, amen. </i></div><i></i><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-53218087717499480072023-10-20T16:00:00.002-05:002024-03-04T12:59:55.821-06:00Wise Mama<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhteMSYC10sSsnW-dTG14BE4MXyZP1MXSkUyHfKbzsO46a1PeBnf5-bnOno0IG9RdFFe8RBph7kZNSUduhfeLi1STZIrfcZmLDgwJWWygPioO_zXHBH7gms4Y7fQl_UrXBS9zf8lDipHQ5n9ZSVWd4-JgGp2YarCo36pAAVvIh0gIoWmsV8cYB1N_i-Hss/s320/IMG_2354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhteMSYC10sSsnW-dTG14BE4MXyZP1MXSkUyHfKbzsO46a1PeBnf5-bnOno0IG9RdFFe8RBph7kZNSUduhfeLi1STZIrfcZmLDgwJWWygPioO_zXHBH7gms4Y7fQl_UrXBS9zf8lDipHQ5n9ZSVWd4-JgGp2YarCo36pAAVvIh0gIoWmsV8cYB1N_i-Hss/w300-h400/IMG_2354.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wise Mama</span></p><p>Today, I found a hidden treasure, a small nest tucked in
among some thorn bushes I was removing. The nest caught my attention because it
was so tiny and fragile.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Then I thought how wise the mother bird had been to hide her
nest in the thorns where her babies would be protected. It reminded me of the verse
in Proverbs thirty. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>Hyraxes (the rock badgers), they aren’t powerful, but
they make their homes among the rocks.<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">That’s exactly what the mother bird had done. She’d built
her nest in the best possible place so her babies would be safe. Because she
knew they would be helpless and unable to defend themselves. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I’m like those baby birds. At times, I am helpless and
unable to defend myself against the enemy, needing protection.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">If only I would place myself in the safest of hands, those
of my loving Father.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /></i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Dear Father,</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>Thank you for your protection. I know that even when I’m
not looking for it, it is there. You have me in Your hands, nothing in my life
is a surprise to you.<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>Help me to run to You in times of trouble and help me to
point other to Your safe arms as well.<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>In Jesus’ name, amen. <o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-37010006083366967002023-09-15T06:00:00.001-05:002024-03-04T13:00:17.278-06:00 Leave It <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsNZks3uKGQSE0HHxnsPQt1yLRKZfsAJvdY-hUgiBo4kF3gwsotawps8qlZKhtVebPysr_RnHzx1ecE87unCqykLAJli4i7g-ZeqM6XITYnf3kXInlqI_h_j-RO4Wn0PuBz4z2N3T1z8u2HKNxO4GFEaeFYkv-F4qP7mUmINibehIRTkCjaYXGxpQswo/s1280/shepherd-dog-4357790_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1280" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsNZks3uKGQSE0HHxnsPQt1yLRKZfsAJvdY-hUgiBo4kF3gwsotawps8qlZKhtVebPysr_RnHzx1ecE87unCqykLAJli4i7g-ZeqM6XITYnf3kXInlqI_h_j-RO4Wn0PuBz4z2N3T1z8u2HKNxO4GFEaeFYkv-F4qP7mUmINibehIRTkCjaYXGxpQswo/w400-h268/shepherd-dog-4357790_1280.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: center;"> Leave It</h3><div><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will
worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.</i> Matthew 6:34
(NIV)<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Leave it,” commanded my husband, but our seven-month-old
German shepherd pulled against the leash not wanting to relinquish the goodie
he had found on the floor. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Then my husband did as the trainer in the class instructed.
He gently tugged on the leash and took a step. When Kaiser followed my hubby,
he received a hefty dose of praise and a yummy treat.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Training a dog to “leave it” is a bit like God training us
to keep our minds out of the future. We so often borrow worry and stress from
what might be and don’t give the events of today enough attention.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Leaving the future in the hands of God calls for faith,
trust, and discipline. We must train ourselves to leave situations and their
potential outcomes alone until God directs us to move. And that’s hard to do!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Often a dog owner will use this command to keep the dog from
eating something harmful or to keep him out of a stinky mess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again, the Father too directs us to focus on
the good of today to keep us from feeding our souls on the maybes and worries
of tomorrow. Too many times, I’ve found myself in a stinky mess because I
didn’t leave it and let God work in his timing.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Dear Father,<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Forgive us when we find it hard to leave the future to you.
May you strengthen our resolve to trust you wholeheartedly in all situations.
Give us this day what is needed.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In Jesus’ name, amen. <o:p></o:p></p><br /></div><p></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-31976522956760759682023-08-02T11:25:00.001-05:002024-03-04T13:00:40.024-06:00Permissible Pleasures<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnAmWDxSE4J4Gp0TPPedqYOXK_RpA_YbPXn5CSj-96S4fy6Y9r7B5c1bKQMiVf4yrIzYru5ZzZJ0Sx1QCu3ZkAT-4_IOnhDQLyToFJcDI-1Twlh_O6nK_tauGkFB2MB9reLa48Wqq4oRPK-UZXcjWVQ1EOX_kx4ik32Qy99vgwh7-ou-G5Y8-u738j7A/s1544/IMG_2170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1158" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnAmWDxSE4J4Gp0TPPedqYOXK_RpA_YbPXn5CSj-96S4fy6Y9r7B5c1bKQMiVf4yrIzYru5ZzZJ0Sx1QCu3ZkAT-4_IOnhDQLyToFJcDI-1Twlh_O6nK_tauGkFB2MB9reLa48Wqq4oRPK-UZXcjWVQ1EOX_kx4ik32Qy99vgwh7-ou-G5Y8-u738j7A/w300-h400/IMG_2170.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Permissible Pleasures</p><p style="text-align: left;">A friend of mine wrote a book titled <i>Permissible Pleasures </i>based on an old saying she'd heard. After giving it some thought, she decided that the Lord allows us many permissible pleasures and through personal stories and scriptures, she shares many of them in her book. </p><p style="text-align: left;">This summer, I have discovered one of my life's permissible pleasures: ice cream in a cone. </p><p style="text-align: left;">It'd been years since I'd indulged in ice cream in a cone. For one, I have a dairy allergy, so my ice cream isn't really ice cream. It's a concoction made by companies to help us poor unfortunates. So, whenever we were out and ice cream was mentioned I would simply decline. </p><p style="text-align: left;">But in the middle of July on a whim, I purchased the old fashioned cake cones and a pint of Ben and Jerry's non-dairy concoction with caramel and chocolate and had myself a yummy little treat. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Now, a couple of times a week, I'll grab the scoop and build myself a little cone of happiness. </p><p style="text-align: left;">"O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusts in him." Psalm 34:8</p><p style="text-align: left;">God is a giver of good gifts. Look around you today and see what permissible pleasures He has given to you in your life. And then, enjoy them with thanksgiving on your lip and maybe a little ice cream.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Father,</p><p style="text-align: left;">Thank you for all the good you infuse into our days and weeks. Help us to see your gifts and to enjoy them. Keep us from turning blessings into burdens.</p><p style="text-align: left;">In Jesus' name, amen.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-25076957720678861252023-03-20T20:34:00.002-05:002024-03-04T13:00:56.128-06:00Spiritual Seeds<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSe-9GzlDFxBbljeTsH2e--oPRu1_7OTLBMSCSI1Z8VQWhUJLmD0qoCPZAHGeWFl3V9uxHnpZ05Pl_leaxGdX5GCw-_Mpx8cw4yiBhgAZEAMAWFHsB2ffyr1qA2ZGQ3NjNdq6uzUtGW6EyLhJv9R99K_2UtR1G-8UQFOeySZ4ydlLBrGg80PWYKGU/s2448/IMG_0880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="2448" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSe-9GzlDFxBbljeTsH2e--oPRu1_7OTLBMSCSI1Z8VQWhUJLmD0qoCPZAHGeWFl3V9uxHnpZ05Pl_leaxGdX5GCw-_Mpx8cw4yiBhgAZEAMAWFHsB2ffyr1qA2ZGQ3NjNdq6uzUtGW6EyLhJv9R99K_2UtR1G-8UQFOeySZ4ydlLBrGg80PWYKGU/w400-h400/IMG_0880.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large;">What kind of spiritual seeds are you planting?</span></div><p></p><div style="background-color: #fcfcfc; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: 36px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"><i><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">There are six things the LORD hates – no, seven things he </span></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: x-large; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">detests . . . a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><p style="background-color: #fcfcfc; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: 36px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: start; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;">~ Proverbs 6: 16-19</span></p></div><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">The official first day of spring is here! Though outside the temperatures have hovered in the forties and are supposed to drop to below freezing tonight for the fourth night in a row, my sights are set on the coming of warmer weather, sunshine, and the planting of flower seeds.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">I love planting flowers. I've had vegetable gardens, but none of them have brought me as much joy as the years I've planted flowers. The colors and smells sing to my soul. They display the grace and beauty found in God's glorious nature.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">In our walk with God, we plant seeds all the time. In some situations, we plant the seeds of encouragement like when a child is having difficulty with homework and we cheer him on. Then there are times we sow the seeds of compassion or mercy like when someone has experienced a loss or has shared with us a need that we can meet.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">But recently, I have found that the enemy also plants seeds, and unfortunately, sometimes he uses us to do it. These seeds slip into our conversations as doubt or worry or fear causing us to look to ourselves for the answers to our problems instead of to God, the Father.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">I'm not talking about ignoring your emotions. We all are worried or fearful or have doubts at times. But find a prayer buddy who will take it to the Father with you. Don't let those seeds grow.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"> <br /></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: times;">The enemy also loves to plant the seeds of discord among families and especially the family of believers. </span><span style="font-family: times;">A little grudge here, a few unmet expectations there and we voice our hurt to others planting seeds in them as well. Oh, the enemy is tricky.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: times;"> <br /></span></span><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Be vigilant, both in your home and your heart. When you recognize the seeds of discord, pluck them out. Get rid of them, so your heart will be full of the love of God.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <br /></span></span><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">As a gardener, I know I have to keep the bad seeds out, so the good seeds can grow and take root. And as a believer, I must protect the good seeds of God's Word planted in my heart, so His Word can grow and take root.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><i>Dear Father, <br /></i></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><i>Thank you for spring. It brings me such joy. Please as I plant the flowers and tend to the yard this year, show me any seeds that the enemy has planted in my heart and pull them out. Let Your Word, Father, take root in my life and may it grow and bloom bringing hope to others. In Jesus' name, amen.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"> </span></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-10213118367208788102023-02-03T12:25:00.001-06:002024-03-04T13:01:17.282-06:00Living in the Goodness of God<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2EVnKqADmWYjZY7zZR-EcPJgEsFO7dylR0zSndv68UsUinKYU9IkrwVnFKF-NmwQ-tQ8rVeL9vk0tgcZKA-eSFTfE9dN2b5L7xb0sPHgSgaKnBhJVwolGEwhxruD4zyJZpHGTiPhpODDzcVvwjpKvUN1M-03B80gSmKsoMl1n-sILHo0FMkIWGH3/s5347/Depositphotos_26742873_XL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3585" data-original-width="5347" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2EVnKqADmWYjZY7zZR-EcPJgEsFO7dylR0zSndv68UsUinKYU9IkrwVnFKF-NmwQ-tQ8rVeL9vk0tgcZKA-eSFTfE9dN2b5L7xb0sPHgSgaKnBhJVwolGEwhxruD4zyJZpHGTiPhpODDzcVvwjpKvUN1M-03B80gSmKsoMl1n-sILHo0FMkIWGH3/w451-h242/Depositphotos_26742873_XL.jpg" width="451" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Living in the Goodness of God</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Dear Friends, </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">A few weeks ago, I came across CeCe Winans rendition
of Goodness of God in my feed. I decided to give it a try. Popping on my
earphones, because I can’t do earbuds, I pushed play.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Immediately, it transported me into the presence of
the Lord. I stopped what I was doing, threw my hands up in the air, and sang
with my whole heart. With tears in my eyes, I said words of thanks and praise
because she was right. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I do live in the goodness of God</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We who are his children all live in His goodness.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The goodness of his faithfulness<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Mercy<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Love<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Grace<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Forgiveness. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">All this from his goodness. And more. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">He’s never left me or forsaken me. He doesn’t fail me.
And even when I’m totally oblivious to his workings, he is good to me. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As Acts 17:28 says, “For in him we live and move and
have our being.” Christ in me, me in God. Existing in his goodness, living as
his child. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">If you haven’t heard it, give it a try. You might find
yourself drowned in his goodness with hearts and hands lifted high.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Blessings, </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Bonita Y. McCoy</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-41926968879962376732022-09-01T13:30:00.002-05:002024-03-04T13:01:30.331-06:00Good Advice<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLykezBgCAwG5pcUJMaTB9RGu7b1uEL2pXgUkvsBE4vtO3Fj2mliGYupM74yhRhKJXpXQGwqVFwAzvgs4tLfrR1oBmixrygcNijUAGIh3P462PUqnX8hc-0ngXRwUNU-HemxPVwvlCm9JRgf6rbWf2vDUTf0NzV7EN-zyxt6BKqDHJmiMTfUzXQi1/s5616/Depositphotos_7406523_XL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3744" data-original-width="5616" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLykezBgCAwG5pcUJMaTB9RGu7b1uEL2pXgUkvsBE4vtO3Fj2mliGYupM74yhRhKJXpXQGwqVFwAzvgs4tLfrR1oBmixrygcNijUAGIh3P462PUqnX8hc-0ngXRwUNU-HemxPVwvlCm9JRgf6rbWf2vDUTf0NzV7EN-zyxt6BKqDHJmiMTfUzXQi1/w422-h281/Depositphotos_7406523_XL.jpg" width="422" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Good
Advice<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You’re going to wear yourself out</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">—<i>and
the people</i>,<i> too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by
yourself</i>. <i>Now listen to me, and let me give you a word of advice</i>,<i>
and may God be with you</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Exodus
18: 18-19a (NLT)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, had heard all about what
God had done for Moses and the Israelites. Stirred by the great news, Jethro
traveled with his daughter and his two grandsons to go see Moses in the
wilderness. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When he saw how Moses spent his days settling disputes
among the people, he asked Moses two clarifying questions. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">What are you really accomplishing?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> ·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Why are you trying to do all of it alone?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Sometimes, it takes someone on the outside looking in
to spot the real problem. Moses spent his time hearing the disputes of the
people, while the people stood around waiting for their turn to be heard. The
system just wasn’t working.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Instead, Jethro offered Moses some good advice. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Split up the work!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There have been times in my own life that a simple
observation from a trusted friend has redirected my “It’s all up to me”
mentality. Or their wise words have opened my eyes to new ways of doing the
job.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">God never gives us more than we can handle. But when
we do take on a task that is big, He will provide the needed help.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Thank goodness for Jethro’s insight and good advice.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">If you are carrying a heavy burden, be sure to seek
the advice of someone you trust. God may have a solution to lighten your load. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Father</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">,<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Thank that You are always faithful to give
us just what we need when we need it</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.<i> Help us to always
seek You first and to have listening ears when someone offers us good advice</i>.<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In Jesus</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">’ <i>name</i>,<i>
amen</i>.<i> </i><o:p></o:p></span></p><br /><p></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-60429007551863487402022-08-16T17:19:00.002-05:002024-03-04T13:01:47.031-06:00Be Strong<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh92TLEwe2PXX_ANOAySM6R37AdzX45pulqLFpGQJEjRFs2Bfi3C6XtlFSl8guLmR5DlBmMC52mNw6NtqgqlcMa3rTJOFzfYw3msiN8SVSOQX8D5bpJeQhzt--PvCkaNWp5VR6Mwwdjvgqm1r5wQRSgnTFciaVghlFa50NGb-k2xWPZz83nbmpAGafF/s1080/BookBrushImage-2022-8-16-17-1646.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh92TLEwe2PXX_ANOAySM6R37AdzX45pulqLFpGQJEjRFs2Bfi3C6XtlFSl8guLmR5DlBmMC52mNw6NtqgqlcMa3rTJOFzfYw3msiN8SVSOQX8D5bpJeQhzt--PvCkaNWp5VR6Mwwdjvgqm1r5wQRSgnTFciaVghlFa50NGb-k2xWPZz83nbmpAGafF/s320/BookBrushImage-2022-8-16-17-1646.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Remember, our hope is in the Lord Almighty. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">It is not in man.</span></div><p></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-89887960294742036122022-08-08T14:59:00.001-05:002024-03-04T13:02:07.906-06:00Putting on my Glasses of Hope<h1 style="text-align: center;"> Putting on My Glasses of Hope</h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Mb8jpkiH2prEGhX8X0Ft3U-iGhxNqol93V1WLmFBMMWTtjUi633G7kF0qJp3FgrBpN0L1GeiAACWaRVas34WluIkelYQ4lQMtjUsIXTA9gHf4J-DYQ9zl9hJh9UlfUSPiaevuyNxznkJpFbzyxNAJ0rHrLY8OYs7jLhBSIKz9uFg3MXJTwx5ZIRn/s4444/Depositphotos_131131128_XL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2962" data-original-width="4444" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Mb8jpkiH2prEGhX8X0Ft3U-iGhxNqol93V1WLmFBMMWTtjUi633G7kF0qJp3FgrBpN0L1GeiAACWaRVas34WluIkelYQ4lQMtjUsIXTA9gHf4J-DYQ9zl9hJh9UlfUSPiaevuyNxznkJpFbzyxNAJ0rHrLY8OYs7jLhBSIKz9uFg3MXJTwx5ZIRn/w400-h266/Depositphotos_131131128_XL.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Lately the world around me has seemed full of hard facts. The war in Ukraine, the economy here at home, and some personal issues have all played a part in my attitude of defeat. I guess you could say it all looked chaotic and hopeless. One big blurry blob of despair.</p><p>Now, I know a thing or two about blurry eyesight. My eyes have been bad since I was ten. Without glasses, a figure in the distance could be a person, a pole, or a sign. It's all one big blob. But once I slide my glasses onto my nose, everything becomes clear. </p><p>That's what happened today when the Lord gave me some scriptures that brimmed over with hope. It was like putting on my glasses, everything cleared. So, I thought I'd share a few of the scriptures the Lord pointed out to me with you. </p><p><i>Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come...</i> This verse from Revelations reminded me who it is that I serve. He is the Great I Am. Ever present, never far off. </p><p><i>But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in the year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.</i> I am reminded to put my confidence in God and not man. That I do not need to fear even in the hard time because even then He will allow me to bear fruit. He walks with us in the easy and the hard.</p><p><i>A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired</i>. Here is the heart of the matter. If my confidence is in Jesus, then I can stand firm in His assurances and count my blessings. My heart can be cheerful because I can carry all my worries and fears to the One who can calm the sea. </p><p>The hymn lyrics from "My Hope is Built on Nothing Less" sums it up nicely. </p><p>My hope is built on nothing less</p><p>than Jesus' blood and righteousness</p><p>I dare not trust the sweetest frame,</p><p>but wholly lean on Jesus' name.</p><p>So today, put on your glasses of hope. Search the scriptures and find the ones that speak to your heart and take comfort in the fact that Father God is always with you.</p><p>May the God of hope fill you to overflowing. </p><p>Bonita Y. McCoy</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3601455546939603813.post-89154264535402167932022-08-02T15:50:00.002-05:002024-03-04T13:02:23.596-06:00Come and Listen<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinF3StJyOsL7EP0ATOTFRbhyQEZCgMmSy81ODikhu81xQMEvEDIsfEWlvsv2dXvxydO9Z241wykEsXcKLqC6SwQdOzKEiIn73wTAzQQ9h0O_FlYjej6Y9yLtyJkel2LFYbVc2mxje06I0FjeYTju7krRBT90SsxQN63O7o2WpLtMkW9VSes6_aDpbl/s1200/BookBrushImage-2022-8-2-15-4825.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinF3StJyOsL7EP0ATOTFRbhyQEZCgMmSy81ODikhu81xQMEvEDIsfEWlvsv2dXvxydO9Z241wykEsXcKLqC6SwQdOzKEiIn73wTAzQQ9h0O_FlYjej6Y9yLtyJkel2LFYbVc2mxje06I0FjeYTju7krRBT90SsxQN63O7o2WpLtMkW9VSes6_aDpbl/w400-h209/BookBrushImage-2022-8-2-15-4825.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">God's wisdom found in Proverbs will change your life.</span></div><br /> <p></p>Bonita Y. McCoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02403526689717066855noreply@blogger.com0