God is Good

Ain't God good to give us so many blessings
Undeserving, that's what we are
We ought to thank Him, love and praise Him
A little more today and a whole lot more tomorrow.

If you’d like to flashback to 1986 with some really "cool" hair, you can check out this video to hear it.

God blesses us every day with His mercy, grace, and love.

"We Wish You a Merry Christmas"

Hallelujah Chorus

12 Days of Christmas

Amazing Grace Techno Lights

This is the challenge that I give to Jody for next year's Christmas lights!!

"I Heard the Bells"

a Christmas Medley

"Little Drummer Boy"

There is a Reason

A few verses from "There Is A Reason" by Caedmon's Call

Late at night I wonder why
Sometimes I wonder why
Sometimes I'm so tired I don't even try
Seems everything around me fails
But I hold onto the promise
That there is a reason
There is a reason

He makes all things good
He makes all things good
There's a time to live and a time to die
A time for wonder and to wonder why
Cause there is a reason
There is a reason


In Ecclesiastes, there is a passage about "a time for everything." I keep thinking of this verse tonight and this song.

A dear family has lost an amazing family member tonight. I am so sad for the family and friends. We do not understand why Jeremy was called home tonight, but we know that God makes all things good and there is a reason.

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance... --Ecclesiastes 3:1-4

"While You Were Sleeping"

"Silent Night"

"O Come All Ye Faithful"

"Christmas Offering"

"Angels From the Realms of Glory"

One of my favorite Christmas commercials :)

"O Holy Night"

"What Child is This"

"One King"

"Sweet Little Jesus Boy"

"Mary Did You Know?"

Mary's Song "Breath of Heaven"

"Joseph's Lullaby"

"All I Want for Christmas is You"

Happy Thanksgiving!

We are spending the week of Thanksgiving in Florida. We have been to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studio. All the parks have been so much fun. We have been seeing Disney characters, eating turkey legs, watching shows, and riding the rides. We are having a great time!!

I hope you enjoy the pictures -there are lots to post later :)

Thankful

I was just going to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and not get all crazy about Thanksgiving. However, my plans have changed!!
There is so much to be thankful for and I want to live my life with a thankful heart every day. So, I am going to list some things I am thankful for:

1. I am thankful for a husband who loves me and his daughters.
2. I am thankful for his job and for my job.
3. I am thankful that God gave us the miracle of two daughters.
4. I am thankful for great parents who have loved me for my entire life. I am thankful for my sister and her family.
5. I am thankful for my sweet neighbors.
6. I am thankful for so many simple blessings that come my way~day to day.
7. I am thankful for my home and for the memories that are being made there each day.
8. I am thankful for health.
9. I am thankful I get to spend my days at home with my children. There is never a dull moment. When I look through their eyes I see a world of hope and possibility.
10. I am thankful for the Lord's love and forgiveness.
11. I am thankful for our freedom in America.
12. I am thankful for my church, my pastor, and the church staff.
13. I am thankful for each season and how we can see God's handiwork in each change.
14. I am thankful for my new puppy and the excitement she brings to our home.

Lots to be thankful for. God is so good.

Hungry and Thirsty

I'm hungry and thirsty for more of my Jesus. For more of my Father. For more of Him.

Thankful Thursday

"All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be."

Psalm 139:13 - 16

National Adoption Awareness Month

November is National Adoption Awareness Month. The purpose is to raise awareness about the adoption of children and youth from foster care. This year's theme is:"You don't have to be perfect to be a perfect parent."

The main focus of National Adoption Month is foster care adoptions. There are roughly 129,000 children in foster care in the United States waiting for adoptive homes.

That number is staggering and heart breaking.

I have been thinking about this all week and can you imagine the pain these kids feel longing for a parent and wanting to call someone mom or dad.

I would love to adopt or foster care, clearly there are thousands of kids waiting, wishing and hoping for parents, siblings and a place to call home.

Are you having one of those days?

Dear Lord,

So far today I've done all right. I haven't gossiped, I haven't lost my temper, I haven't been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish, or very indulgent. I'm very grateful for that. But in a few minutes, Lord, I'm going to get out of bed, and from then on, I'm going to need a lot more help. Amen.

A thought about Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day is approaching. We crafted a tree out of poster board and taped it to the wall. I cut out a bunch of leaf shapes, in fall colors, and then the girls and I listed the things that we are thankful for on the leaves, which were then taped to the tree. It is a fun family thing to do that helps us all realize how much we have to be thankful for.

There's just something about being thankful that changes the heart. Why not take a moment and write out what you are thankful for.

"God has two dwellings; one in heaven, and the other in a meek and thankful heart." Izaak Walton

"Something More"

Well it has been one of the days...There has been so many things to do today and I feel like I am not adequate enough. I feel inadequate to care for my family, homeschool my girls, comfort a friend who has a sick and hurt child, visit with neighbors, care for the house, be a good employee, and the list goes on and on.

Why do I want to do all of this? Why do I want to spend all my time doing these things? The reason is because I want and strive to be an example of God's love to my family, my friends, strangers that I meet out in the day to day experiences of life, my employer, neighbors, to everyone I come into contact with on a daily basis. I also want to be an example for my girls of how God's love should radiate through them.

So I found another song. As soon as I heard it I could feel God wrapping His arms around me. I have found myself listening to it many times. The line about "On the days I feel like I failed you". There have been many of these days. I feel like I am constantly not giving God the credit when it is due or relying on him when I should. But have I decided to praise God for I am His. Hallelujah, I am His!!

should.

Halloween 2009

We had a fun time on Halloween even though it rained on our trick-or-treating. Taylor dressed up like Raggedy Ann. Aubrey dressed up like a Go-go girl.

We had set up tent outside on the front porch with fire pit (that we never got to start because of the rain) and t.v. for the football games.

We enjoyed trick-or-treating in our neighborhood. We also enjoyed handing out candy at our house and seeing the cute (and some scary) costumes.

Who got their ears pierced?

Also on our last camping trip, the girls got their ears pierced. They both had wanted to do it for a long and never followed through with having it done. So, the week before we went camping they decided that it was time. They had talked about it all week. They thought they were ready!!

Jody and I took the girls to Claire's for the ear piercing. We had checked the day before to find out when 2 people would be at the store to pierce both ears at the same time. I thought it was important to have them done at the same time so that no one would change her mind after one ear was pierced!!

Aubrey went first and did great. She was so excited to have her ears pierced again (she had them done when she was about 3 years old). She was really brave.

Then it was Taylor's time. Taylor had changed her mind about getting her ears pierced during the time Aubrey was getting hers done!! When Aubrey was all done and it was Taylor's turn, Taylor was telling me that she was not getting hers done. After some persuasion and bribing (yes I believe bribing your children is okay at times!) Taylor got her ears pierced. She was so happy afterwards and said it did not hurt as bad as she had thought it would!!

Thanks to the 2 ladies at Clarie's that put up with the drama of ear piercing in the King family. Thanks to Mrs. Carol for your encouragement and help in the ear piercing experience.

I am so proud of Taylor and Aubrey for getting their ears pierced. They have been taking excellent care of them everyday doing exactly what they are suppose to after getting them pierced. They are so excited to start wearing different earrings everyday!!

Happy Birthday Jody

While on the camping trip the last week of October, we celebrated Jody's birthday. His actual birthday had been a couple of weeks before but we never got to celebrate. We tried the day of his birthday but lots was going on already and nothing seemed to work out to get to celebrate. So, we took advantage of our time together and celebrated Jody!!

Jody chose Bubba Gump to eat lunch. It was delicious!!
Then we just strolled around and spent time together as a family.

So, in honor of Jody's birthday that I did not post about almost one month ago...

Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to Jody,
Happy Birthday to you!!

I want to wish my best friend, husband, and father of my children Jody, a belated happy birthday!

I would like to share with you some things I love about my husband...
1.) He loves God.
2.) He is a dedicated family man.
3.) He is a great Dad!
4.) He is creative
5.) He is a faithful husband
6) He does not complain about anything!!
7.) No matter what I want to do, he finds a way for me to do it.
8.) He is talented in music - plays the piano and trumpet and sings.
9.) HE LOVES TAKING US TO DISNEY WORLD!! (will be leaving in a few weeks)

There are many, many other things that I love about him. Jody, I just want you to know that Taylor, Aubrey and I love you so much. We think you are the best husband and father!! We hope you had a great birthday!!

Camping

We spent some time camping during the month of October. Our first camping trip was earlier in the month and it rained the ENTIRE time we were camping.
Our second camping trip was better because it only rained some :)
The leaves on the trees were beginning to change and they were beautiful. The pictures of the river is behind our camper at the campground.

One day we spent the afternoon at Dollywood. It was fun because few people were there and we did not have to wait in line for any of the rides!!

We love camping (even Maggie)!!

How Great Thou Art

How Great Thou Art
Carl Boberg

O Lord, my God, When I in awesome wonder,
Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made;
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy pow'r throughout The universe displayed.
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art! How great Thou art!

When thru the woods and forest glades I wander,
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees;
When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur
And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze.
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art! How great Thou art!

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing,
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the cross my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died To take away my sin.
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art! How great Thou art!

When Christ shall come With shout of acclamation
And take me home, What joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow In humble adoration,
And there proclaim, "My God, how great Thou art!"

Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art! How great Thou art!
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art! How great Thou art!

Carl Boberg was a Swedish minister and wrote a poem in 1885, when he was 26 years old, that translated very similar to the first verse of this hymn. Stuart Hine, an English missionary, was in Russia when he heard the hymn for the first time. He loved it so much he changed some words and added the last three verses. In 1954 George Beverly Shea heard this song and introduced it to the Billy Graham Crusade team. In the New York Crusade of 1957, Bev Shea sung this hymn ninety-nine times.
*The history for this hymn is taken from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan

The mouth of the Righteous

This is the topic of my Bible study today.

Righteous: Doing or conforming to that which is right; just; honorable. (Webster's)

From the reading of Proverbs 10, the mouth of the righteous:

is a fountain of life
is choice silver
nourishes many
brings forth wisdom
knows what is fitting

One small chapter from the entire Bible can set a different tone in our homes, our cars, our places of work and worship if we are obedient to it's commands. This is my goal for the day!

A Girl's Day

For Christmas last year, Taylor and I both received a gift certificate for a facial. I do not know why we waited until October to use it?!? It was so much fun and SO relaxing. I would love to have a facial every month or every week. Every day would be awesome! You can see in the pictures, Taylor before and Taylor after...she looks so relaxed and refreshed after her facial :) Thanks Fowlers for the wonderful gift!! It was much loved!!

Rainy Day

Today was rainy all day. This was the first day in awhile that we have not been really busy and had lots of places to go and lots we had to do. So, we took advantage of the rainy day.

We took our time in school today and talked about many new things. We ran a few errands this afternoon and had lunch at Cracker Barrel sitting by a fire, then home for 6 hours straight during the day!! This does not happen very much for us :(

So, what did we do?

Well, I am glad you asked... there was napping (by Maggie!!) , playing Guitar Hero, finishing with the Christmas decorating, laughing, and having fun together!! It was a wonderful rainy afternoon.

We are now getting ready to leave for tap class at the dance studio...not looking forward to getting out in the rain.

Enjoy the rainy evening.

Don't Just Hear It...

listen to it. I've heard the song before...it was in the movie "Fireproof". But I hadn't really listened. God saved it for the perfect moment. When I was getting frustrated and not being patient, this song was posted on another blog and it ministered to my heart.

While I'm Waiting
John Waller

I'm waiting


I'm waiting on You, Lord

And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait

Yes, I will wait

I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

John Waller - While I'm Waiting (Official Music Video) from Provident Label Group on Vimeo.

no, Mr. President :(

Shoes For Haiti

The college ministry at our church, recently did a special mission trip to Haiti. See what they did in the video.

http://vimeo.com/7452943

Safe in the Arms of Jesus

Safe in the Arms of Jesus
Fanny J. Crosby

Safe in arms of Jesus, safe on His gentle breast,
There by His love o'ershadowed, sweetly my soul shall rest.
Hark! 'tis the voice of angels, borne in a song to me.
Over the fields of glory, over the jasper sea.

Safe in the arms of Jesus, safe from corroding care,
Safe from the world's temptations, sin cannot harm me there.
Free from the blight of sorrow, free from my doubts and fears;
Only a few more trials, only a few more tears!

Jesus, my heart's dear Refuge, Jesus has died for me;
Firm on the Rock of Ages, ever my trust shall be.
Here let me wait with patience, wait till the night is o'er;
Wait till I see the morning break on the golden shore.

Fanny Crosby was born blind and on March 5, 1858 she wed Alexander Van Alsteine. A year later she gave birth to a child. No one knows if it was a boy or girl and the only thing she was ever heard saying about it was, "God gave us a tender babe, soon the angels came down and took our infant up to God and His throne." No one could get her to talk about this tragedy. She claimed that "Safe in the Arms of Jesus" was written especially for mothers who had lost children.
*History of hymn was taken from "Then Sings my Soul" by Robert J. Morgan.

Tell Me Again

This past weekend, I attended Creekfest (much like a Fall Festival) at my former church. This is the church I grew up in and spent over 30 years of my life growing in the Lord and serving the Lord. It is a very special place to me. I got to see many people that are really special to me. It also made me start thinking of other people that are special to me because they helped me to become the person I am today. As I was growing up in the Lord, he made sure I was surrounded by those who were faithful to BE Jesus. I will be forever grateful to my leaders in church who invested their time and their hearts in my life. I am convinced that without them I would not be where I am today.

Jesus Loves Me

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
Helen H. Lemmel

O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There's light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth Will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.

Thro' death into life ever lasting
He passed, and we follow Him there;
Over us sin no more hath dominion
For more than conqu'rors we are!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth Will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.

His word shall not fail you He promised;
Believe Him, and all will be well;
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth Will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.

Helen Howarth Lemmel was born in England in 1863. She eventually married a wealthy man who left her once she became blind. At age 55 she heard a statement that inspired her hymn. "So then, turn your eyes upon Him, look full into His face and you will find that the things of earth will acquire a strange new dimness." She wrote the verses of the hymn the same week as it was "dictated to her by the Holy Spirit". She had a family friend write down all of her hymns before she forgot them because she had no way of writing. She wrote nearly 500 hymn and passed away in 1961 a few days before her 98th birthday.

*Hymn history is taken from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan.

Holy Spirit...Breathe on Me

This is an old hymn that I just love. I heard it the other day and forgot how meaninful the words are. To me the hymn writer has addressed every aspect of life in this one song.

Holy Spirit, breathe on me,
until my heart is clean;
let sunshine fill its inmost part,
with not a cloud between.

Breathe on me, breathe on me
Holy Spirit, breathe on me;
Take Thou my heart, cleanse every part,
Holy Spirit breathe on me.

Holy Spirit, breathe on me,
my stubborn will subdue;
teach me in words of living flame
what Christ would have me do.


Breathe on me, breathe on me
Holy Spirit, breathe on me;
Take Thou my heart, cleanse every part,
Holy Spirit breathe on me.


Holy Spirit, breathe on me,
fill me with pow'r divine;
kindle a flame of love and zeal
within this heart of mine.


Breathe on me, breathe on me
Holy Spirit, breathe on me;
Take Thou my heart, cleanse every part,
Holy Spirit breathe on me.


Holy Spirit, breathe on me,
till I am all Thine own,
until my will is lost in Thine,
to live for Thee alone.


Breathe on me, breathe on me
Holy Spirit, breathe on me;
Take Thou my heart, cleanse every part,
Holy Spirit breathe on me.



This is my prayer for today, tomorrow, and the next weeks and months. "My stubborn will subdue, fill me with power divine, kindle a flame of love and zeal within this heart of mine, till I am all thine own, and until my will is lost in thine."

What has been going on?

We have been having lots of fun in the last few weeks. Here are some updated pictures of Maggie. In the first part of the slide show she had long hair. In the second part of the slide show, she had been groomed. Although you can not really tell in the pictures, you could tell in "real life". She looked so cute.

Aubrey's friend Sydney has been over a couple of times and Aubrey has loved that.

We have a little boy across the street that the girls are crazy about. He just turned 3 years old and is really sweet. He loves playing with "the girls" as he calls them :) Taylor is holding him in the slide show.

The girls danced at the Fall Festival in Maryville last weekend. It was COLD!! They did a good job dancing and you could not even tell they were cold :) There is a picture of them at Fall Festival, of course they have on all their coats, gloves, etc. There is also a picture of some art that is made out of license plates. It was so cool. I really enjoyed seeing this.

Maggie also had a friend over to visit. My aunt and uncle let us take care of their shih tzu for a week while they went on vacation. Maggie had a fun time with Chloe after she made sure Chloe knew the rules at "her house"! Maggie had some jealousy when Taylor and Aubrey would play with Chloe and not her but other than that she did really good and shared with Chloe.

He is With You

A great new song by Mandisa reminding us that no matter what we are going through, God is with us :)

At Calvary

At Calvary
William R. Newell

Years I spent in vanity and pride,
Caring not my Lord was crucified,
Knowing not it was for me He died
On Calvary.

Mercy there was great and grace was free;
Pardon there was multiplied to me;
There my burdened soul found liberty,
At Calvary.

By God's Word at last my sin I learned;
Then I trembled at the law I'd spurned,
Till my guilty soul imploring turned
To Calvary.

Mercy there was great and grace was free;
Pardon there was multiplied to me;
There my burdened soul found liberty,
At Calvary.

Now I've giv'n to Jesus ev'rything;
Now I gladly own Him as my King;
Now my raptured soul can only sing
Of Calvary.

Mercy there was great and grace was free;
Pardon there was multiplied to me;
There my burdened soul found liberty,
At Calvary.

O the love that drew salvation's plan!
O the grace that brought it down to man!
O the mighty gulf that God did span
At Calvary!

Mercy there was great and grace was free;
Pardon there was multiplied to me;
There my burdened soul found liberty,
At Calvary.

William (Bill) Newell wrote this hymn as his testimony. His father had begged the president of Moody Bible Institute to let his prodigal son attend Moody. After several letters, the president, Dr. R. A. Torrey relented and let Bill come only if he obeyed the rules and met with him on a daily basis. After talking with Torrey for several years Bill later became a professor at Moody Bible Institute. Wanting to write his testimony in verse form, these words came to him on his way to class one day. Bill went on to become a well-known Bible teacher and he is the author of a series of Bible commentaries.

*Hymn history is from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan.

Things to NOT SAY to your wife!

a Grandma witnesses to robber

All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name

All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name
Edward Perronet

All hail the power of Jesus' name! Let angels prostrate fall;
Bring forth the royal diadem, And crown Him Lord of all;
Bring forth the royal diadem, And crown Him Lord of all.

Ye chosen seed of Israel's race, Ye ransomed from the fall,
Hail Him who saves you by His grace, And crown Him Lord of all;
Hail Him who saves you by His grace, And crown Him Lord of all.

Let every kindred, every tribe, On this terrestrial ball,
To Him all majesty ascribe, And crown Him Lord of all;
To Him all majesty ascribe, And crown Him Lord of all.

O that with yonder sacred throng, We at His feet may fall!
We'll join the everlasting song, And crown Him Lord of all;
We'll join the everlasting song, And crown Him Lord of all.

Rev. Edward Perronet followed in his father's footsteps and became a vicar in the Anglican Church in England. He was closely associated with John Wesley for awhile but soon started his own small independent church in Canterbury. He died in 1792. His hymn has a special place in missionary history besides being a popular traditional hymn. Rev. E. P. Scott ignored his family and friends and went deep into India trying to reach a savage tribe. He found himself surrounded by warriors with spears pointed directly at him. With nothing else to do, he pulled out his violin and started singing, "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name!" When he came to the verse, "Let every kindred, every tribe," he opened his eyes to see every spear lowered and tears in the warrior's eyes. He spent the next two years ministering to the savage tribe.*Hymn history taken from "Then Sings My Soul" by Robert J. Morgan.

"Footprints in the Sand"

Thank you Jesus for carrying me.

Taylor Swift "The Best Day"

I am still thinking about life and the meaning of my life.

Of course my girls are very important to me and I want what is best for them. This has been my goal before they were born, the baby and toddler years, the preschool years, the preteen years, the teen years and for the rest of their lives. I look back at the last 12 years and can not believe the years have gone so fast. I hope the days I have spent with them will make good memories for them. They definitely are great memories for me :) Grab a box of tissue and watch this video by Taylor Swift and her sweet song "The Best Day" and then spend a day making memories with your child, no matter his or her age.

"Legacy" by Nichole Nordeman

Because several people I have known have died in the last year or so, it has me thinking about death and life. I don't know when God will call me Home. It could be in 60 years, 40 years, 20 years, 2 years, 12 months, 3 months, tomorrow or today. While, I long to be at home with my Heavenly Father where I will be praising Him every moment, I want to be sure that what I am doing on earth today is meaningful. When I am gone how will people remember me?

LEGACY" by Nichole Nordeman

I don't mind if you've got something nice to say about me
And I enjoy and accolade like the rest
You could take my picture and hang it in a gallery
Of all who's who and so-n-so's that used to be the best
At such-n-such...it wouldn't matter much

I won't lie, it feels alright to see your name in lights
We all need and 'Atta boy' or 'Atta girl'
But in the end I'd like to hang my hat on more besides
The temporary trappings of this world

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who blessed your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy

I don't have to look too far or too long awhile
To make a lengthy list of all that I enjoy
It's an accumulating trinket and a treasure pile
Where moth and rust, thieves and such will soon enough destroy

Not well traveled, not well read, not well-to-do or well bred
Just want to hear instead, "Well Done" good and faithful one...

Happy Fall!

I love Fall! I love being outside this time of year and I love taking photos this time of year too. I will have to keep my camera battery charged and keep it with me so I can get some great shots of trees changing colors. It's beautiful. God is incredible. I love the song by Nicole Nordeman called "Every Season" It depicts a beautiful picture of how incredible each change of season is and she has a beautiful voice.

Blessed Assurance

Blessed Assurance
Fanny J. Crosby

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
Oh what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood!
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.

Perfect submission, perfect delight!
Visions of rapture now burst at my sight!
Angels descending bring from above
Echoes of mercy, whispers of love.
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.

Perfect submission, all is at rest.

I in my Savior am happy and blest;
Watching and waiting, looking above,
Filled with His goodness, lost in His love.
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.

One of Fanny's dearest friend, Phoebe Knapp, was very wealthy and lived very differently than Fanny did. Fanny lived in the slums of New York while Phoebe lived in a mansion, yet they were very good friends. Fanny was a regular visitor and while she was there in 1873, Phoebe played a composition of her own on the piano. As soon as the blind hymnist heard it she said, "Why, that says, "Blessed Assurance!'" Soon after that she composed the words to this great hymn. As with most of her hymns, "Blessed Assurance" was made famous by the evangelist D. L. Moody.

*Hymn history taken from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan

Knoxville Zoo

We went to the Knoxville Zoo today. We had a lot of fun seeing the animals and enjoying the time with our friends. Thanks Craig, Jen and Graham for letting us tag along with you guys today. We had a great time :)

Dollywood

Last week we went to Dollywood one day after school. It was a beautiful day and we wanted to go play. The girls rode lots of rides and had a great time with friends.

Maggie

Maggie does really well when there are other children in the house. However, she does not want anyone to forget that SHE IS THE BABY in the King house!! Last week the girls gave her a "binky" and she has LOVED it!! I don't think she is spoiled at all!! Look at how happy her "binky" makes her :)

Britton

A couple of days last week we got to keep Britton. He is 2 months old now. He is growing and changing so much. We had a great time with Britton. Enjoy the pictures!!

Maggie at 15 weeks old

My baby is growing up :) She is so sweet and I am so glad we added her to our family. I hope you enjoy the pictures!

Aubrey's birthday party

Yes, September was Aubrey's birthday MONTH. For some reason she had birthday parties ALL month. I guess because she was turning 10 years old!!

At the end of the month, she had a birthday party at Granny and Pop's house. Granny cooked dinner for the family, we had cake, gifts, the girls dressed up, and we had a dance show. It was a fun family night together. Thanks Granny for making the night special for Aubrey.

the cheerleader

Taylor has been cheering this football season for South Doyle Middle School. She cheers for the 7th grade football team. She has had a fun time cheering with her friends and she did a great job at all the games. Here are some pictures from one of her games.

Today Is the Day to Get Working for Jesus!

Everything to Me

Mark Schultz's music video of his song "Everything to Me" dedicated to his birth mother and the most important gift she ever gave him... life. Grab a box of tissues and listen to his story and the song.

Here is the story behind the song:


Here is the song:

There Is Power in the Blood

There Is Power in the Blood

Lewis E. Jones

Would you be free From your burden of sin?

There's pow'r in the blood, Pow'r in the blood;

Would you o'er evil a victory win?There's wonderful pow'r in the blood.

There is pow'r, pow'r, Wonder working pow'r

In the blood of the Lamb;

There is pow'r, pow'r, Wonder working pow'r,

In the precious blood of the Lamb.

Would you be free, From your passion and pride?

There's pow'r in the blood, Pow'r in the blood;

Come for a cleansing To Calvary's tide;

There's wonderful pow'r in the blood.

There is pow'r, pow'r, Wonder working pow'r,
In the blood of the Lamb;
There is pow'r, pow'r, Wonder working pow'r,
In the precious blood of the Lamb.

Would you be whiter, Much whiter than snow?
There's pow'r in the blood, Pow'r in the blood;
Sin stains are lost In its life giving flow;
There's wonderful pow'r in the blood.

There is pow'r, pow'r, Wonder working pow'r,
In the blood of the Lamb;
There is pow'r, pow'r, Wonder working pow'r,
In the precious blood of the Lamb.

Would you do service For Jesus your King:
There's pow'r in the blood, Pow'r in the blood;
Would you live daily, His praises to sing?
There's wonderful pow'r in the blood.

There is pow'r, pow'r, Wonder working pow'r,
In the blood of the Lamb;
There is pow'r, pow'r, Wonder working pow'r,
In the precious blood of the Lamb.

Lewis E. Jones graduated from Moody Bible Institute. He spent his time with the YMCA and on the side wrote hymns. This hymn was written at a camp meeting in Maryland in 1899. He also composed the tune. This is his most popular hymn.

*Hymn history taken from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan

God is Love

I Will Rise

Did You Know...

Since it is a rainy, rainy, rainy day outside I thought I would take this time to blog...

DID YOU KNOW?

Peel a banana from the bottom and you won't have to pick the little 'stringy things' off it.

Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you leave them connected at the stem, they ripen faster.

Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh much longer and not mold!

Peppers with 3 bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating.

Peppers with 4 bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking.

Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef. It will help pull the grease away from the meat while cooking.

To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich add a couple of spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream; then beat them.

Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a light taste of garlic and at the end of the recipe if your want a stronger taste of garlic.

Reheat Pizza: heat leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove; set heat to med-low and heat till warm. This keeps the crust crispy. No soggy micro pizza. I saw this on the food channel.

Easy Deviled Eggs: put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag. Seal; mash till they are all broken up. Add remainder of ingredients, reseal, keep mashing it up mixing thoroughly, cut the tip of the baggy; squeeze mixture into egg. Just throw bag away when done - easy clean up.

Reheating refrigerated bread: to warm biscuits, pancakes, or muffins that were refrigerated, place them in a microwave next to a cup of water. The increased moisture will keep the food moist and help it reheat faster.

Newspaper weeds away: start putting torn newspaper in your plants, work the nutrients in your soil. Wet newspapers, put layers around the plants, overlapping as you go; cover with mulch and forget about weeds. Weeds will get through some gardening plastic; they will not get through wet newspapers.

Broken Glass: use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up the small shards of glass you can't see easily.

Flexible vacuum: to get something out of a heat register or under the fridge add an empty paper towel roll or empty gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings.

Reducing Static Cling: pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and you will not have a clingy skirt or dress. Same thing works with slacks that cling when wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and static is gone.

Measuring Cups: Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot water. Dump out the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your ingredient (peanut butter, honey, etc.) and watch how easily it comes right out.

Foggy Windshield: Hate foggy windshields? Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car. When the windows fog, rub with the eraser! Works better than a cloth!

Reopening envelope: If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside, just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Viola! It unseals easily.

Conditioner: Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shaving cream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.

Goodbye Fruit Flies: to get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2 with Apple Cider Vinegar and 2 drops of dish washing liquid; mix well. You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever!

Get Rid of Ants: Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it 'home,' can't digest it so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works and you don't have the worry about pets or small children being harmed!

I Pledge Allegiance to the Flag...

"Sing to Jesus"

Blessed Be Your Name

Please pray for a dear friend of our family. Without going into detail, she is really sad, upset, and disappointed today. Thank you!

"God gives and takes away..."

The Marshmallow Test

Only You by David Crowder Band

Our time here is short..Our Purpose is simple..We need to just step outside ourselves to see it.

Rock of Ages

Rock of Ages
Augustus M. Toplady

Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee.
Let the water and the blood, From Thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure, Save from wrath and make me pure.

Could my tears forever flow? Could my zeal no languor know?
These for sin could not atone; Thou must save, and Thou alone.
In my hand no price I bring; Simply to thy cross I cling.

While I draw this fleeting breath, When my eyes shall close in death,
When I rise to worlds unknown, And behold Thee on Thy throne,
Rock of Ages cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee.

Augustus Montague Toplady was born on November 4th, 1740. He was very much so spoiled by his mother after his father died in a war. He was never liked by anyone, including his relatives. However, Augustus was very interested in the Lord and began preaching to anyone who would listen at age twelve. He started writing hymns at age 14 and became a Christian at age 16 after attending a service in a barn. At 22 he was ordained and he died at the age of 38. His best known hymn, "Rock of Ages", has outlived him by many centuries.

*Hymn history taken from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan

"Give Me Jesus"

This is one of my favorite songs and has been since I heard it for the first time several years ago. It is a beautiful song and the video below is such a great tribute to Ruth Bell Graham who was a remarkable lady.

I encourage you to live each day with a HEAVENLY perspective!!!

The Government Can!

"Heaven is the Face" by Steven Curtis Chapman

Baby Britton

Britton came to visit this week. We love our visits from Britton!! He is growing and is so sweet! He had lots of fun being spoiled by all of us :) We found a Tigger outfit for him to maybe wear on Halloween if his mom chooses. However, we could not wait until Halloween to see how cute he looked in the costume so we put it on him!! He was a good sport about it, not sure what he thought about it...

There are a couple of pictures of Maggie also. She was 14 weeks old this week. She does really well when we have babies in the house. She loves to watch them and figure out the noises they are making. While Britton was napping and I was holding him, Maggie had her paw on Britton's foot watching him. She was too sweet! I wish I had gotten a picture of that but I did not want to put Britton down and miss out on cuddling him!!

Thanks Beverly for letting Britton come visit. We have a great time with him and are looking forward to watching him grow up.

The Kelsie Story

A touching story

I Want What She Has

I'd like to share my devotion from today with you because I think we all have times when we look at what other families are doing and wish we could do the same. This is a good reminder for me, and maybe for you too.

September 17, 2009

I Want What She Has

Lysa TerKeurst

"A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones."

Proverbs14:30 (NIV)

Devotion:

Chances are, if you're like me, you've struggled with comparison and envy.

My house looks great until a friend redecorates. Her clever color combination and crafty restoration abilities have created rooms that look as though they've stepped straight from a magazine. Suddenly my home feels outdated and plain.

My kids seem great until I'm around someone else's who excel in areas my kids struggle in. I see her kids quietly reading books that are well advanced for their age and loving every minute of it. I compare that to mine who would rather have their right arm cut off than to read books that are barely grade level all the while asking me when they can go do something else more exciting. Suddenly I judge myself for not making reading more of a priority when they were younger and feel like a sub-par mom.

Suddenly all that I'm blessed with pales in the face of comparison. I'm blinded from seeing what I do have in the face of what I don't have. My heart is drawn into a place of ungratefulness and assumption. As I assume everything is great for those that possess what I don't, I become less and less thankful for what's mine.

And here's the real kicker... things for the person I'm comparing myself to are almost never what they seem. If there's one thing that living 40 years has taught me, it's that everybody has not-so-great sides to their lives. Whenever I get an idyllic view of someone else's life, I will often say out loud, "I am not equipped to handle what they have, both good and bad."

God has taught me a lot about how to nip a comparison in the bud so it doesn't develop into full blown envy and jealously.

The statement, "I am not equipped to handle what they have, both good and bad," has been one of the greatest realizations God has given me. Every situation has both good and bad. When I want someone else's good, I must realize that I'm also asking for the bad that comes along with it. It's always a package deal. And usually if I'll just give something enough time to unfold I can often be found thanking God that I didn't get someone else's package.

One of the first times I came to understand this truth was in middle school when I met a beautiful girl at the Children's Theater in my town. We were both budding child actors cast in a Christmas play. During rehearsals I can remember seeing her long dancers legs move in ways my stubby limbs never could. Her legs were muscular and lean and graceful. Mine couldn't be described with any of those adjectives.

One day there was an unusual pain in her left leg. And then a doctor's appointment turned into a battery of tests that turned into a hospital stay that turned into a diagnosis. Cancer. A surgery to remove a tumor turned into an amputation turned into a complete life change. Her world became filled with words no child should ever have to know: chemotherapy, prosthetics, hair loss, and walking canes.

As a young girl I was stunned by the whole thing. Especially because I clearly remember night after night after watching her glide across stage, I would ask God for legs exactly like hers.

... not equipped to handle what they have, both good and bad.

I don't want to paint the picture that every good thing someone else has will end with a tragedy. That's not the case. Sometimes others' good things are simply fantastic. But they are fantastic for them - not me.

...not equipped to handle what they have, both good and bad.

Dear Lord, thank You for only entrusting me with what I have and who I am. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Lysa's blog for a give-away you don't want to miss! You could win four copies of Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl to share with your friends.

Today's devotional is taken from Lysa's new book just released: Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl. If you enjoyed this devotion, you will want to order the book!

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

Application Steps:

What I must remember is to consciously make the choice to redirect my thinking when I find myself comparing and wanting.

Think of something you've wanted that someone else has. Have you been lured into thinking, "If only I had _______ like that person, my life would be great!"

Now, practice redirecting those thoughts by instead saying:

I am not equipped for their good.

I am not equipped for their bad.

I am not equipped to be them in any way.

I am, however, perfectly equipped to be me.

Reflections:

When I compare myself to others and start wanting what others have, it quite simply wears me out. I start feeling weary from wanting and burdened by trying to figure out how to have more, be more, and do more.

In light of all we've been talking about, isn't it interesting what Jesus instructs worn out people to do? Look at the power verse below.

Power Verses:

Matthew 11:28-30 finds Jesus instructing us, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (NIV)

© 2009 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

a little confession...

I have to say that I have had the the busiest and saddest 1 1/2 months I can remember. Everything has felt really strange. I've been out of my normal schedule for several weeks. I've been angrier than I have ever been. I had knots in my stomach for most of the 1 1/2 months both from anger and from the sadness of disappointment. I don't like feeling this way. I normally am a happy person. Seeing the ugly side of people has changed the tone of my life.

I was reading another blog and the lady was having the same feelings that I was having but for different reasons. She said this " I've said over and over again that the truth will be revealed and that we have to rest on God's promise that he will 'bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts" (from 1 Cor. 4:5)'. Yet I've allowed myself to dwell on the offenses, playing events over again in my head. I must let it go and dwell on what is important...two happy, beautiful, healthy daughters, a wonderful husband, and just life in general. The girls had their feelings hurt also in all of this, but they have forgotten and moved on. I need to learn and practice this lesson from them :)

That's really what it's all about.

Who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's. The LORD works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed.
(Psalm 103:4-6)

Jesus Paid It All

Jesus Paid It All
Elvina M. Hall

I hear the Savior say, "Thy strength indeed is small;
Child of weakness watch and pray, Find in Me thine all in all."
Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.

Lord, now indeed I find, Thy power and Thine alone;
Can change the leper's spots And melt the heart of stone.
Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.

For nothing good have I, Where by Thy grace to claim;
I'll wash my garments white, In the blood of Calvary's Lamb.
Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.

And when before the throne, I stand in Him complete;
"Jesus died my soul to save," My lips shall still repeat.
Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.

This beloved hymn was written by Elvina Hall while her mind was wandering during her pastor's lengthy prayer. She scribbled similar words on the front flap of her hymnal. She gave her poem to the church organist, John T. Grape, and he composed the music for "Jesus Paid It All". Although the versions have changed throughout the years, the message is the same.*Hymn history taken from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan.

Labor Day

On Labor Day we went to Jody's aunt and uncle's house for a cookout, swimming, and fun!! We also had 2 birthday girls at the party! Aubrey's birthday had been the day before and Katherine's birthday had been on Thursday of the week before. Jody's aunt made them a birthday cake. She did a fabulous job on the cake. It was so cute and girly...just like Katherine and Aubrey!! We had a great time spending time with family.

Boomsday 2009

Here are some pictures while we were waiting for Boomsday to start in downtown Knoxville. We did not take any pictures of the fireworks during Boomsday but they were awesome. I think this was the best year ever!

Aubrey's birthday

Sunday, September 6 was Aubrey's actual birthday!!

For her birthday, Aubrey wanted to go to church, eat lunch, and then play indoor putt putt in Pigeon Forge. So that is is what we did (along with a few other things...like Boomsday!). It was a fun day! I can't believe my baby is 10 years old...time has gone so fast...

Here are a few pictures of the day.

Aubrey and Friends Celebrating Birthday

Friday night Aubrey invited friends over to the house to celebrate her birthday. We had a great time. The girls played, laughed, and had a fun time hanging out with each other. We also took the girls bowling and there was lots of fun there also!! Aubrey had a great time with her friends!!

Here are a few pictures from the party!!

Maggie

Here are some pictures of Maggie after she had a first grooming. She did great for the groomer and you can now see her eyes!!

It is Well

A Wonderful Thing

This was part of my devotion reading today:

A Wonderful Thing

Being a mother is a wonderful thing,
My bedside alarm, it never need ring,
I'm awakened each day with bright cheerful faces,
And soon 'round the table they've all taken places.

Our meal is seasoned with plenty of chatter,
The fruit and the muffins fly from the platter,
There are stories to share and a Bible verse too,
We reverently pray - it's not always a zoo!

The day is so full of a number of things;
First chores, then schoolwork, then song practicings,
Cooking and cleaning and book-reading too,
A mom of wee children has plenty to do!

I've heard busy times end as quick as they start,
So, I'll treasure these days, store them up in my heart,
Small children grow up- the time goes so fast,
The business of mothering soon will be past.

Be cheerful and thankful each day that you've got,
Grater joy anywhere, there surely is not!
As you work through your duties may God hear you sing
'Cause being a mother is a wonderful thing!

by Lora Nola

Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus

'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus

Louisa M. R. Stead

'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,

Just to take Him at His word;

Just to rest up on His promise;

Just to know "Thus saith the Lord.

"Jesus, Jesus how I trust Him!

How I've proved Him o'er and o'er!

Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!

O for grace to trust Him more!

O how sweet to trust in Jesus,

Just to trust His cleansing blood;

Just in simple faith to plunge me,

Neath the healing, cleansing flood!

Jesus, Jesus how I trust Him!

How I've proved Him o'er and o'er!

Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!

O for grace to trust Him more!

Yes, 'tis sweet to trust in Jesus,

Just from sin and self to cease;

Just from Jesus simply taking

Life and rest and joy and peace.

Jesus, Jesus how I trust Him!

How I've proved Him o'er and o'er!

Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!

O for grace to trust Him more!

I'm so glad I learned to trust Thee,

Precious Jesus, Savior friend;

And I know that Thou art with me,

Wilt be with me to the end.

esus, Jesus how I trust Him!

How I've proved Him o'er and o'er!

Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!

O for grace to trust Him more!

Louisa M. R. Stead was born in 1850, became a Christian at age 9 and felt the call to missions when she was a teenager. She married but her husband was tragically taken in a drowning accident. She soon took her 4 yr. old daughter to South Africa where she wrote this hymn. She was a missionary in South Africa for fifteen years. She died in 1917 but her daughter married a missionary and continued to work for many years in Zimbabwe.
*Hymn history from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan.

My Sweet Aubrey - Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to You,
Happy Birthday to You,
Happy Birthday to Aubrey,
Happy Birthday to You!!!



I wanted to share with you a glimpse of who Aubrey is...
She was born on Monday, September 6, 1999. She was born 8 weeks early and was a fighter from the beginning.
She is beautiful and has been since the day she was born. She is fun and lively, yet enjoys her quiet time alone. When she was younger she could sit in her room and look through books and play with her toys for hours all by herself.
Yet Aubrey loves people, and when she loves you, she loves you with everything in her. She loves very deeply. She would rather have only a few people around her that she knows really well than be in a room with a lot of people. If you give her your time and attention, she becomes deeply attached. She loves security. She loves family.
Yet Aubrey is very, let's say, spunky. She has always had comprehension far beyond her years. And she can reply with comments that you would never expect from someone her age. She is feisty. Pick on her sister when she doesn't want you to, and she will retaliate. Make fun of her and she will have a pretty good comeback. She will tell you like she feels it. You usually don't have to guess what she is thinking.
Yet again, she may be feisty, but she is also really soft. She loves to be held. She gives the best hugs. She loves to cuddle. She loves touch. She loves soft blankets and stuffed animals. Anything to do with touch. She loves pink, purple, and her latest favorite color is yellow. She loves being a girl. She likes to dress up and go places. She likes to have short hair. She loves riding her bike. She loves to eat fruit. She loves chips. She would rather eat chips than dessert.
She gets concerned with what other people think. She loves to chew gum. She loves to help her daddy. She likes to eat shrimp. She loves to draw. She loves to swim.
She loves going to Disney World. Her dream vacation is to go to Hawaii.
She absolutely loves dogs and is so happy to have Maggie living with us now. She loves to wear skirts. She loves to watch TV and listen to music. She likes to snack. She likes to have her picture taken and to pose for the pictures.
She is complex.
She is wonderful.
She is a gift.

This is the Bible verse I claim for Aubrey:
Jeremiah 29:11 "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."

This song is the first song that starts playing when you turn on our blog, unless you have yours muted!! Today I was listening to the song and just got emotional. I really like this song but it took on a whole new meaning today when I listened to it and thought of my "baby" who is turning 10 years old today and growing way too fast. I don't want to take one precious moment for granted.


Happy Birthday my sweet Aubrey!
You are very loved!!

I Am A Friend of God

If you have been reading our blog very much or if you know us personally, you know WE LOVE MUSIC!!

This is one of our favorites... How exciting it is to say that I am a friend of God and that He calls me friend!!

His Appointed Time

A friend sent this to me today. It is a devotion from Joel and Victoria Osteen. This was really speaking right to me, and I thought of many of my friends (in both the real and the blog worlds), who could probably use this encouragement, as well.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE"For the vision is yet for an appointed time…though it tarry, wait for it"(Habakkuk 2:3 KJV)

TODAY'S WORD from Joel and Victoria

God has an appointed time to fulfill the visions, dreams, and desires in your heart. Just because it has taken a long time or because you've tried and failed, doesn't mean it's not going to happen. Don't give up on those dreams! Don't be complacent about pursuing what God has placed in your heart. Our God is a faithful God. No matter how long it's been, no matter how impossible things looks, if you'll stay in faith, your appointed time is coming.Remember, every dream that's in your heart, every promise that has taken root, God put it in there. And not only that, but He has every intention of bringing it to pass. Hold on to that vision today by declaring, "My time is coming. God is working behind the scenes on my behalf. I will fulfill my destiny!" As you continue to hold on to that vision and speak life over your dreams, you'll see them begin to take shape. You'll see your faith grow, you'll see your hope strengthen, and you'll see yourself step into the destiny God has prepared for you!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY"Father in heaven, I receive Your truth today. I receive Your promises today. I ask that You ignite my heart with Your holy fire so that I can pursue Your perfect plan for my life. Make my thoughts and words agreeable to Your will. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder

When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder

James M. Black

When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound,and time shall be no more,

And the morning breaks eternal bright and fair,

When the saints on earth shall gather over on the other shore,

And the roll is called up yonder I'll be there.

On that bright and cloudless morning

when the dead in Christ shall rise,

And the glory of His resurrection share;

When the chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies,

And the roll is called up yonder I'll be there.

Let us labor for the Master from the dawn 'til

setting sun,

Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care;

And when all of life is overand our work on earth is done,

And the roll is called up yonder I'll be there.

This old hymn was written in 1893 by James M. Black. One day while calling roll for his youth meeting, one name did not answer. It was the daughter of an alcoholic. He said to himself, "O God, when my own name is called up yonder, may I be there to respond!" That night he sat at his piano and wrote this hymn.
*Hymn history taken from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan.

Crown Him with Many Crowns

Crown Him With Many Crowns

Matthew Bridges/Godfrey Thring

Crown Him with many crowns, The Lamb upon His throne.

Hark! how the heavenly anthem drowns

All music but its own!

Awake, my soul and sing Of Him who died for Thee;

And hail Him as thy matchless King

Through all eternity.

Crown Him the Lord of love; Behold His hands and side,

Rich wounds, yet visible above,

In beauty glorified;

No angel in the sky Can fully bear that sight,

But downward bends His wondering eye At mysteries so bright.

Crown Him the Lord of life, Who triumphed o'er the grave.

Who rose victorious to the strife, For those He came to save.

His glories now we sing, Who died and rose on high.

Who died eternal life to bring, And lives that death may die.

Crown Him the Lord of heaven: One with the Father known,

One with the spirit Through Him given From yonder glorious throne.

All hail, Redeemer, hail! For Thou hast died for me;

Thy praise and glory shall not fail Throughout eternity.

Matthew Bridges, a Catholic, wrote this hymn based on Revelation 19:12. He called it, "The Song of the Seraphs." However, in 1874, Godfrey Thring who was a staunch Anglican, thought some of the verses were based a little too much on Catholic doctrine. He wrote six new verses so the hymn now has 12 verses that hymnal writers pick and choose from.
*Hymn history taken from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan.

I don't...

A little Monday fun about things I don't...

- I don't drink coffee... but oh how I love the smell of it!

- I don't watch the news when Jody is out of town... freaks me out!

- I don't enjoy cleaning my house... I force myself to clean!

- I don't EVER have a completely clean house...who has time for that...that is way over-rated!!

- I don't know what I ever did without my children...I can not imagine my life any other way than how it is right now!

- I don't EVER want to be caught without my Burt's Bees or Carmex lip balm nearby...I might just have a come apart if I can not quickly lay my hands on one!

- I don't mind if my kids make a mess...especially if they are having a good time...we can always clean it up later!

Share in the fun of "I don't..." I would like to hear what you don't... Share in the comment section or post on you blog and leave a link to your blog in the comment section so we can all check it out!

Happy Monday!!

Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace

John Newton

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound!

That saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now am found;

Was blind, but now I see.

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,

And grace my fears relieved.

How precious did that grace appear,

The hour I first believed.

Thro' many dangers, toils and snares

I have already come.

'Tis grace that brought me safe thus far,

And grace will lead me home.

When we've been there ten thousand years,

Bright shinning as the sun,

We've no less days to sing God's praise;

Than when we first begun.

John Newton's mother was a devoted Christian who prayed earnestly for her son. She died when Newton was seven and his life fell deeper and deeper into sin. He alternated between boarding school and the high seas. He eventually joined the British Navy which he deserted and was beaten for it. On March 9, 1748 he was on a ship when a horrible storm started. The next day he cried out to the Lord to deliver him. He became one of Britain's most powerful evangelists and wrote hundreds of hymns. Newton added this verse at the end of "Amazing Grace" that has almost been forgotten:

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,

the sun forbear to shine;

But God, Who called me here below,

shall be forever mine.

*Hymn history taken from "Then Sings My Soul" by Robert J. Morgan.