The Lord Bless You and Keep You

 

In my prayer time this morning I asked for a word from my loving heavenly father and this scripture is what came to my heart and mind.

 

God bless you today and....

May the Lord bless you
and protect you.
May the Lord smile on you
and be gracious to you.
May the Lord show you his favor
and give you his peace.’

Numbers 6:24-26 (NLT)

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

 

Here's a bit of the history I thought it was so interesting...

 

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

"The Lord bless you and keep you" is a sacred choral composition by John Rutter. The text is the biblical benediction known as the "Priestly Blessing" (Numbers 6:24–26), followed by an extended "Amen". Rutter scored the piece for four vocal parts (SATB) and organ.^[1] He composed it in 1981 for the memorial service of Edward T. Chapman, the director of music at Highgate School, London, with whom he had studied when he attended the school.^[2]
It was published by Oxford University Press in 1981, in the anthology Oxford Easy Anthems, edited by David Willcocks. Marked "Andante espressivo", the music is in G-flat major and common time. It takes about 2 ¹⁄₂ minutes to perform. Rutter also wrote an arrangement for soprano, alto and keyboard in F major^[3] and a version for choir and orchestra.^[2]
It was recorded several times,^[2] for example ending a collection of Rutter's choral works performed under his direction by the Cambridge Singers and the City of London Sinfonia.^[4] It also concluded the 2010 recording of the composer's Requiem by Polyphony and the Bournemouth Sinfonietta, conducted by Stephen Layton.^[5] In his notes to that recording, the composer described his musical aims: "I happen not to believe in erecting needless barriers between composer and listener: given a choice between critical approbation and a chance of touching the hearts of people outside the limited circle of contemporary music aficionados, I know which I prefer."^[6]
In "The Lord bless you and keep you", Rutter keeps the music restrained and simple. The accompaniment first rests on a pedal point; long chords in the bass change only every half measure, while broken chords in steady eighth notes add colour. The first line of the text is sung by the sopranos alone, then repeated by all voices, starting in unison but expanding to harmony on the words "The Lord make His face to shine upon you". "The Lord lift His countenance upon you" is sung twice in two-part homophony, first soprano and alto, then tenor and bass. "And give you peace" appears three times, softer each time from mp to pp, first in the soprano, then in the tenor, and finally in unison in all voices.^[7] A polyphonic "Amen" grows to the climax of the music both in range and in intensity, then gradually softens and, after a "molto rallentando", reaches the final long chord.^[2][7]
Rutter chose the work, along with others such as "For the beauty of the earth", to represent his compositions at workshops, for example one at the Augustinerkirche (de) in Würzburg in 2013.^[8] The Benediction was part of the celebration of the 100th birthday of the Queen Mother in 2000.^[2]

 



Be A Best Friend - Devotional October 30, 2015

 

Are You a Best Friend

Growing up I was a very active child, I loved the outdoors…Mom said I walked at eight months old and I was swimming under water at two. I loved it.

Always running and jumping and skipping…doing, skin-the-cats and loved the monkey bars…

Climbing trees and doing, cart wheels…splinters in fingers or ant-bites, sandspurs in bare feet, falling down and skinning my knees, but that didn’t bother me…

I was outside and I was free…to roam and explore, just being me.

I just wanted to be outside, I even taught myself how to ride a bike…I couldn’t wait for the night to be over, so I could go outside and play…that’s where I was adventurous and happy.

I was a best friend, to me…

Over the years I had some wonderful friends, you know who you are, I don’t want to name you; because I don’t want to leave anyone out…

It is easy to have friends…

But are YOU a friend? Jesus said in John 15:13, Greater love hath no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Be a friend to someone…let them know you are nearby if they need to talk. Go to lunch, just reach out to someone. You never know who is hurting or lonely and needs a little encouragement. You know how you, feel…others feel the same way. Be open to the Holy Spirit’s nudging…you may find that, that, is exactly what you need to do.

Proverbs 18:24 says, A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Jesus is our best friend…he set the example…be a best friend to someone…we all need friends.

And if you don’t know Jesus, well he’s easy to get to know; just talk to him…Be His Best Friend!

You’ll find that it is the best adventure you will ever live. Being His best friend is like ice creams sundaes, chocolate cake with your favorite toppings. It’s like walks on the beach and climbing mountains, exploring space and naming stars…it’s like hearing your baby’s first word or seeing them take their first step.

The friendship of Jesus is like, having long talks about everything and never being bored…he’s like visiting Paris or London or Uganda and giving smiles and hugs and clothes to those who are less fortunate than yourself. He’s like singing in the rain and hearing music that’s out of this world. Watching, I Love Lucy and Saturday morning cartoons. 

Being Jesus’s best friend is like jumping off into deep waters from a hundred foot cliff…the thrill is amazing. Knowing there is no danger.

It’s like driving your dream car as fast as you want without a care of crashing, knowing he’s got cha…Oh he’s so much more…you can imagine the rest…You can trust him totally, completely…with your life and the life of your loved ones…

If you need a best friend…be a best friend! God bless you today!

Lord, I want to be a best friend…faithful and steadfast…just as you are Jesus. Help us to love unconditionally, and without restraint. Give us best friends and never ever let us take them for granted. Amen!

Jesus Hold Me

Jesus Hold Me

Jesus…
When all I can do is cry…
Hold me…

When no sees the tears but you...
The pain within will not subside...
Hold me…

Memories do not console me...
Your face I long to see
Please, Jesus, hold me…

Will it ever cease this loss within?
Can I dare hope, to live again…

To see her loving, smiling face...
Oh God I need, your amazing grace...

I need you Lord, for it is more
Than my crushed spirit can forbear...

Time slips away…
Life goes on...
Let me sing the victory song…

For she is just a heartbeat away…
I know, reunited, we’ll be someday…

Others hurt, hearts broken too…
Jesus…
Hold me…until I see you!

Did she feel the same way I do…

OH God, then there are others
Who…

Bear a cross of immobilizing loss...
Restore our souls to what we believe...
Fill our cups and send relief...

Let faith arise…
With songs of praise...
Beauty for ashes...
Your banner of love raise…

Highway to heaven beyond the skies...
Life everlasting…we never die!

Victory, yes victory, is mine!

Jesus, sweet Jesus, hold me!

By: Marla Shaw O’Neill October 29, 2015©

 

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: John 11:25 (KJV)

 

Why Grumpy is Grumpy - Devotional October 28, 2015

GRUMPY!

Have you taken on more than you can handle?

Feeling all alone and struggling, discontent and worry floods your heart and mind?

It’s time to regroup…

Stop…and focus on what you think is most important.

Is it your job?

Is it your financial future?

Are you homeless?

Reckless?

Out of control?

Are you single looking for that special someone?

Married but the romance and love have completely left the scene and you wonder what happened to the happily ever after?

You need a retreat; or maybe a vacation; but you can’t afford to stop long enough for that…and retirement well that is totally out of the question. You’ll never be able to retire. Like the saying that goes … “I owe, I owe, and so off to work I go.” No wonder Grumpy was grumpy.

Stop the roll-a-coaster…and get off at the next exit!

Life is too short to live like that!

How do I stop? It’s not easy in your own strength, but it can be done!

Get your priorities in order. God, Family, Work, Play.

Matt 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

1. Heb 13:5: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

2. 2 Cor 12:9: But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

Acts 1:8: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

1. Eph 3:20: Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,

2. Matt 11:30: For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

3. Heb 12:1: Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

4. Jas 5:16: Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

Ps 37:4: Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Lord Jesus, I’m tired of the treadmill. Help me to set right my priorities today. I want you to be first in my life Jesus. When I put you first I know everything else will come into place just as it should. Your word is wisdom. Give me your wisdom Lord. Let me start today to put my life in proper order. Then I know I will have peace, even in the midst of the storm. Amen.

Then instead of being Grumpy...I'll be Happy!



Happiness - Devotional October 27, 2015

Matthew 5Complete Jewish Bible (CJB)

5 Seeing the crowds, Yeshua walked up the hill. After he sat down, his talmidim came to him, ² and he began to speak. This is what he taught them:

³ “How blessed are the poor in spirit!
    for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

⁴ “How blessed are those who mourn!
    for they will be comforted.

⁵ “How blessed are the meek!
    for they will inherit the Land!^[a]

⁶ “How blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness!
    for they will be filled.
⁷ “How blessed are those who show mercy!
    for they will be shown mercy.

⁸ “How blessed are the pure in heart!
    for they will see God.

⁹ “How blessed are those who make peace!
    for they will be called sons of God.

¹⁰ “How blessed are those who are persecuted
because they pursue righteousness!
    for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

¹¹ “How blessed you are when people insult you and persecute you and tell all kinds of vicious lies about you because you follow me! ¹² Rejoice, be glad, because your reward in heaven is great — they persecuted the prophets before you in the same way.

¹³ “You are salt for the Land. But if salt becomes tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything except being thrown out for people to trample on.
¹⁴ “You are light for the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ Likewise, when people light a lamp, they don’t cover it with a bowl but put it on a lampstand, so that it shines for everyone in the house. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your light shine before people, so that they may see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven.
¹⁷ “Don’t think that I have come to abolish the Torah or the Prophets. I have come not to abolish but to complete. ¹⁸ Yes indeed! I tell you that until heaven and earth pass away, not so much as a yud or a stroke will pass from the Torah — not until everything that must happen has happened. ¹⁹ So whoever disobeys the least of these mitzvot and teaches others to do so will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But whoever obeys them and so teaches will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. ²⁰ For I tell you that unless your righteousness is far greater than that of the Torah-teachers and P’rushim, you will certainly not enter the Kingdom of Heaven!
²¹ “You have heard that our fathers were told, ‘Do not murder,’^[b] and that anyone who commits murder will be subject to judgment. ²² But I tell you that anyone who nurses anger against his brother will be subject to judgment; that whoever calls his brother, ‘You good-for-nothing!’ will be brought before the Sanhedrin; that whoever says, ‘Fool!’ incurs the penalty of burning in the fire of Gei-Hinnom! ²³ So if you are offering your gift at the Temple altar and you remember there that your brother has something against you, ²⁴ leave your gift where it is by the altar, and go, make peace with your brother. Then come back and offer your gift. ²⁵ If someone sues you, come to terms with him quickly, while you and he are on the way to court; or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer of the court, and you may be thrown in jail! ²⁶ Yes indeed! I tell you, you will certainly not get out until you have paid the last penny.
²⁷ “You have heard that our fathers were told, ‘Do not commit adultery.’^{[c] 28} But I tell you that a man who even looks at a woman with the purpose of lusting after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. ²⁹ If your right eye makes you sin, gouge it out and throw it away! Better that you should lose one part of you than have your whole body thrown into Gei-Hinnom. ³⁰ And if your right hand makes you sin, cut it off and throw it away! Better that you should lose one part of you than have your whole body thrown into Gei-Hinnom.
³¹ “It was said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife must give her a get.’^{[d] 32} But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of fornication, makes her an adulteress; and that anyone who marries a divorcee commits adultery.
³³ “Again, you have heard that our fathers were told, ‘Do not break your oath,’ and ‘Keep your vows to Adonai.’^{[e] 34} But I tell you not to swear at all — not ‘by heaven,’ because it is God’s throne; ³⁵ not ‘by the earth,’ because it is his footstool;^[f] and not ‘by Yerushalayim,’ because it is the city of the Great King.^{[g] 36} And don’t swear by your head, because you can’t make a single hair white or black. ³⁷ Just let your ‘Yes’ be a simple ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ a simple ‘No’; anything more than this has its origin in evil.
³⁸ “You have heard that our fathers were told, ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’^{[h] 39} But I tell you not to stand up against someone who does you wrong. On the contrary, if someone hits you on the right cheek, let him hit you on the left cheek too! ⁴⁰ If someone wants to sue you for your shirt, let him have your coat as well! ⁴¹ And if a soldier forces you to carry his pack for one mile, carry it for two! ⁴² When someone asks you for something, give it to him; when someone wants to borrow something from you, lend it to him.
⁴³ “You have heard that our fathers were told, ‘Love your neighbor^[i] — and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴ But I tell you, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! ⁴⁵ Then you will become children of your Father in heaven. For he makes his sun shine on good and bad people alike, and he sends rain to the righteous and the unrighteous alike. ⁴⁶ What reward do you get if you love only those who love you? Why, even tax-collectors do that! ⁴⁷ And if you are friendly only to your friends, are you doing anything out of the ordinary? Even the Goyim do that! ⁴⁸ Therefore, be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

Footnotes:

1. Matthew 5:5 Psalm 37:11
2. Matthew 5:21 Exodus 20:13, Deuteronomy 5:17
3. Matthew 5:27 Exodus 20:13(14); Deuteronomy 5:17(18)
4. Matthew 5:31 Deuteronomy 24:1
5. Matthew 5:33 Leviticus 19:12; Numbers 30:3(2); Deuteronomy 23:22(21)
6. Matthew 5:35 Isaiah 66:1
7. Matthew 5:35 Psalm 48:3(2)
8. Matthew 5:38 Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21
9. Matthew 5:43 Leviticus 19:18

The Floodgates of Heaven - Devotional October 23, 2015

 

Malachi 3:9-11 Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

9 You are suffering under a curse, yet you—the whole nation—are still robbing Me. 10 Bring the full tenth into the storehouse so that there may be food in My house. Test Me in this way,” says the Lord of Hosts. “See if I will not open the floodgates of heaven and pour out a blessing for you without measure. 11 I will rebuke the devourer[a] for you, so that it will not ruin the produce of your land and your vine in your field will not fail to produce fruit,” says the Lord of Hosts. 

Floodgate: a last restraint holding back an outpouring of something powerful or substantial.

I know you don’t want to hear this and as soon as you see Malachi you know what’s coming. Don’t close your eyes or your ears but open your heart and see what it is that God is saying…

He wants to bless you. He wants you to give him your whole heart.

Look what he says:

He said the nation is sick and under a curse because it is robbing him. How you say?

In tithes and offerings.

He only wants what is his anyway…just a tenth. You get to keep the other ninety percent.

He says, TEST ME!

You bring me my tenth and I will open the FLOODGATES OF HEAVEN, and pour out a blessing for you without measure.

Anyone with any sense at all can see that it would be worth it.

He will rebuke the devourer from you so that it will not destroy the produce of your land.

And your vines in your fields will not fail to produce fruit.

That job you want, it’s yours. That sickness that is lurking just around the corner, banished. Financial crisis not a threat, God rebuked it. Why because you didn’t rob God…you were not a thief…you gave back what was his to him.

Abel gave God the best and first of his livestock. Way before the law came.

Abraham gave God the first and best that he had. And God blessed him beyond his wildest dreams.

This is a principle of God. If you give him your first and your best…what belongs to him anyway, He will bless you in ways you can’t even comprehend.

Test Him and see…God does not lie, try it. It’s all His anyway. He just wants to know that he’s got your whole heart. Do it joyfully and cheerfully...just as joyfully you would if you were given a promotion or the test the doctor took that came back negative of the dreaded illness you thought you might have.

Be exuberant! Not to gain anything, but simply because God is so good to you and loves you that you want to bless Him!

Do you love Him? Then really love Him! You can’t out give God!

Lord Jesus, I give you my whole heart and I never want it back. It is yours. Help us to open our eyes and ears and our hearts to be obedient to you today. In Jesus name, Amen.

God Didn't Get Tired - Devotional October 21, 2015

In the Air Corps our motto was, The difficult we do immediately, the impossible takes a little longer. Mike Mombrea Sr.,(94) my wonderful young friend….

31 God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning – the sixth day. (Genesis 1 New International Version)

Now I’m sure that God could have made everything in just one day, but he didn’t, he made everything in six days and then he rested on the seventh. Was God tired? No, I don’t think so. I do think he was giving an example for us to follow.

God is God!

He has a plan and we are part of that plan.

We are to walk by faith and not by sight…

You know what; it takes faith to sit in a chair, but do we consciously ask ourselves, “Let me try this chair out just to be sure it will hold me up before I sit down?” No. we just sit down and low and behold it holds us up. So why is it that we question what God’s doing or going to do or why God is doing it this way, or that way, on every turn?

God says it’s faith that pleases him. It’s a knowing without even thinking about it…like sitting on a chair.

I’m speaking to the children of God right now, the ones who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior and who have the precious Holy Spirit living within their hearts.

The ones who have read the stories of the bible and have been taught from an early age, to a good old age…yet we still question why?

Stop that! Start putting into practice all the things you’ve learned and live in faith unto the living God! The bible says, to those who know to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. (James 4:17)…stop sinning…and start living by faith in God!

Practice, apply what you have learned throughout the ages…you don’t need milk anymore…you have teeth…and can eat meat…Oh how he longs to share his secrets with you….Take a moment, sit down in the chair and let him share his love with you. He’s waiting for you right now.

Jesus, as I sit in this chair knowing without a doubt it will hold me up, I thank you for being with me today. I thank you for sitting with me and for having a wonderful conversation with me; just the two of us. What can I do for you today, Lord? Who can I encourage and be a blessing too? What’s that Lord? You want me to sit quietly and listen to you for a little while? OK, Lord, I can do that. Amen!

Let the Sunshine In

You are the Son Shine!

In my prayer time this morning something really cool happened…
I began to pray then the spirit of prayer fell…and I really began to pray…

It was cloudy outside which cast a gloomy, shadowy haze, in the house…but I didn’t realize it at the time I was caught up in the presence of the Lord…

As I prayed for something specifically, at that exact moment, even though the blinds were closed, brightness filled the room as the sun came shining through the window…it was glorious….I was so taken in by the beauty of God and His presence, I could hardly contain my joy!

And then I was silent;
I listened as the Lord began to speak to my spirit…and He said…………

“You will see my salvation. You have your request!”

Well that was the icing on the cake so to speak…and in faith I know God heard and has answered…

Then this little song came to my mind… ‘Open up your heart and let the sunshine in.’

I copied the lyrics below. Thank you Jesus for your great Love!!!!!!

OPEN UP YOUR HEART (AND LET THE SUNSHINE IN)
(Stuart Hamblen)
Gail & Rosemary Clooney - 1954
Cowboy Church Sunday School - 1955
Frente! - 1995

Mommy told me something a little girl should know
It's all about the Devil and I've learned to hate him so
She says he causes trouble when you let him in the room
He will never ever leave you if your heart is filled with gloom

So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Smilers never lose and frowners never win
So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Open up your heart and let the sun shine in

When you are unhappy, the Devil wears a grin
But oh, he starts a-running when the light comes pouring in
I know he'll be unhappy 'cause I'll never wear a frown
Maybe if we keep on smiling he'll get tired of hangin' around

So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Smilers never lose and frowners never win
So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Open up your heart and let the sun shine in

If I forget to say my prayers the Devil jumps with glee
But he feels so awful, awful, when he sees me on my knees
So if you're full of trouble and you never seem to win
Just open up your heart and let the sun shine in

So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Smilers never lose and frowners never win
So, let the sun shine in, face it with a grin
Open up your heart and let the sun shine in

How cool is that? Jesus you are my Sun-shine! Amen! You are the Son Shine!

Jesus, thank you for being our sunshine…thank you for answering when we call…and thank you for your salvation and grace….Amen!

WHERE IS YOUR TREASURE - DEVOTIONAL OCTOBER 20, 2015

Matthew 6:21New Living Translation (NLT)

21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.

Does God have your whole heart?

All of it?

Is Jesus first in your life?

As I’ve traveled on my journey so far in this life…I’ve faced many things as all of us have!

I’ve been lost many times.

Confused.

Depressed.

Sick.

Alone.

Lonely.

Afraid.

Abused and Abandoned.

Even at one point Indigent…I had nothing…as far as material things go…and my soul was dry and wandering...

During those times…God had me, but I didn’t have God! I ran and ran and ran…I’d cry and pray, “God help me…” He was helping me, but I couldn’t hear him because I would not stop and listen. I wanted to do it my way…I tried to surrender to him…I had been born again at a young age…I had been filled with the Holy Spirit and received my heavenly language at age twelve…but I had not given Jesus my whole heart…I’d seen miracles and was used in the gifts of the spirit…but I could not commit, one hundred percent to walk in a sanctified, consistent way with the Lord…

And so the enemy of my soul drove me…until somehow…someway a miracle happened and I was delivered from the self-seeking, self-righteous life of Hell I found myself in!

Everything is temporary in life…but there is one thing that will last…our souls live on forever…where we live is determined by the decision we make when Jesus calls us to him!

Sold out, completely and utterly in Love with Jesus…

The blessed life doesn’t mean life without pain, or difficulties…

It does mean that we have a promise and a helper to hold our hearts and hands and lead us through the minefields safely and in perfect peace…Let the SON-SHINE IN! So that the SON-SHINES OUT!

I will tell you this when I began to ASK Jesus to give me a hunger and thirst for more of him…He was more than willing to flood me with Him, and answer that request! There is NOTHING in this life that satisfies like HIM!

Jesus, Oh precious Jesus, I love you Lord and I thank you for touching each heart that reads this that you will pour out your Holy Spirit on them and saturate them with such a longing for you that they will not rest until they pursue you with their WHOLE HEART! Amen!

Good Soldier - Devotional October 16, 2015

 

3 Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 Soldiers don’t get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them. 2 Timothy 2:3-4New Living Translation (NLT)

What’s it Like to Serve as a Soldier?

Have you ever thought about what it must be like to be a Soldier? Rise up early each and every day 24/7. Train mentally and physically to stay strong. Go through Basic Combat Training. Serve without question. March in all kinds of environments; desert, swamp, mountains, heat, cold, rain, oceans, sky.  Face the enemy without fear. Even give your life for what you believe and know, protect your family and country no matter what!

I did a little research and this is what I found. I copied this from goarmy.com.

This is something we as American Christians need to ask ourselves; Are we “DOING?” Or is it just lip service?

As you read the following apply the words to the Christian life!

The 7 Core Values Army Soldiers live by:

Loyalty
Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the Army, your unit and other Soldiers. Bearing true faith and allegiance is a matter of believing in and devoting yourself to something or someone. A loyal Soldier is one who supports the leadership and stands up for fellow Soldiers. By wearing the uniform of the U.S. Army you are expressing your loyalty. And by doing your share, you show your loyalty to your unit. (God’s uniform)

Duty
Fulfill your obligations. Doing your duty means more than carrying out your assigned tasks. Duty means being able to accomplish tasks as part of a team. The work of the U.S. Army is a complex combination of missions, tasks and responsibilities — all in constant motion. Our work entails building one assignment onto another. You fulfill your obligations as a part of your unit every time you resist the temptation to take “shortcuts” that might undermine the integrity of the final product. (The work of a Christian)

Respect
Treat people as they should be treated. In the Soldier ’s Code, we pledge to “treat others with dignity and respect while expecting others to do the same.” Respect is what allows us to appreciate the best in other people. Respect is trusting that all people have done their jobs and fulfilled their duty. And self-respect is a vital ingredient with the Army value of respect, which results from knowing you have put forth your best effort. The Army is one team and each of us has something to contribute. (The Golden Rule)

Selfless Service
Put the welfare of the Nation, the Army and your subordinates before your own. Selfless service is larger than just one person. In serving your country, you are doing your duty loyally without thought of recognition or gain. The basic building block of selfless service is the commitment of each team member to go a little further, endure a little longer, and look a little closer to see how he or she can add to the effort. (Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together; We are the family of God; serve one another in love.)

Honor
Live up to Army values. The Nation’s highest military award is The Medal of Honor. This award goes to Soldiers who make honor a matter of daily living — Soldiers who develop the habit of being honorable, and solidify that habit with every value choice they make. Honor is a matter of carrying out, acting, and living the values of respect, duty, loyalty, selfless service, integrity and personal courage in everything you do. (The Christian’s highest award is the Crown of Life)

Integrity
Do what’s right, legally and morally. Integrity is a quality you develop by adhering to moral principles. It requires that you do and say nothing that deceives others. As your integrity grows, so does the trust others place in you. The more choices you make based on integrity, the more this highly prized value will affect your relationships with family and friends, and, finally, the fundamental acceptance of yourself. (Care for others more than yourself.)

Personal Courage
Face fear, danger or adversity (physical or moral). Personal courage has long been associated with our Army. With physical courage, it is a matter of enduring physical duress and at times risking personal safety. Facing moral fear or adversity may be a long, slow process of continuing forward on the right path, especially if taking those actions is not popular with others. You can build your personal courage by daily standing up for and acting upon the things that you know are honorable. (Do not be afraid but stand firm in faith even if it means laying down your life.)

It’s something to think about, take a long, hard look at your life and see where your heart is today. Let the Holy Spirit show you where you stand in the army of God. Make adjustments…and do whatever it takes to be all that God has called you to be. God bless you on your journey!

Lord hear our prayer,

Lord Jesus, help us today to examine our hearts using your standards and see where we need to make changes and change. As Soldiers in your Army Lord, let us be found faithful and obedient to the call. Amen.

Let's Talk - Devotional October 15, 2015

9 What man among you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him! Matthew 7:9-11 Holman Christian Standard Bible

Years ago, it was 1971; my brother had been in a horrible motorcycle accident. He was in the Air Force and living in California. Mom and I flew out there from Tampa. The doctor didn’t expect Regan to live; he was in a coma, with a lacerated liver, head concussion, broken collarbone, as well as, other issues. It was not looking good.

Mom went to the little prayer room at the base hospital and she did what she does…She prayed.

This is what God told her….

“If your son asked for bread would you give him a stone, or if he asked for fish would you give him a serpent?”

From that mom knew that Regan was going to be OK, she had the assurance of hearing from the Lord. And sure enough Regan did recover. It didn’t stop him from getting back on his motorcycle though, he loved to ride.

You see it’s so very important that we have that strong, close relationship with Jesus, he longs for us to talk to him, to walk with him. He doesn’t want to harm us or hurt us or cause us to suffer. He wants to bring good things into our lives….Why, because he loves us. Would you deliberately hurt your children? No, you wouldn’t. God wouldn’t either.

Satan is the father of lies and that’s what he does. He lies to us. He has lied from the very beginning of time and he will keep on lying…do not listen to his lies. God wants you well, he wants you safe, he wants to give you a good life full of joy and peace.

Draw close to God, resist the devil and He WILL FLEE…He cannot stand in the presence of the living God…he has to run! So you know what, stay so close to God that you can hear his heartbeat…He loves you, He wants to have a conversation with you every day.

Let’s talk to the Lord,

Hey Jesus, how’s it going? I just want to say I love you Lord. I love our talks together I’m glad it’s not just one sided. You are my best friend. Thanks for hanging out with me.

“You’re welcome kid; I think you’re pretty special too! I’m giving you lots of favor today. Keep looking up and never let go of my hand. I got cha!” ~Jesus~

By Marla Shaw O’Neill October 15, 2015©

Let Me Carry You - Devotional October 14, 2015

¹³ No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he’ll never let you be pushed past your limit; he’ll always be there to help you come through it. 1 Corinthians 10:13The Message

Many times in life we are faced with difficult situations and circumstances. The trial seems more than we can bear. Some take pills, or indulge in other substitutes anything to dull the mind and heart that will make the pain stop! But it does not stop; and soon all that is left is the shell of a person, the light has gone out of them because the burdens were too tremendous to bear.

Life is messy, it’s cruel and stressful, but there is an anecdote. Jesus said,

^28-30 “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:29-30The Message

There is no easy way, but there is the WAY….Follow Jesus he has the life you seek and He does not lie!

Pray with me,
Jesus, burden bearer, abundant life maker, we thank you for giving us life; help us to walk in grace today. Help us to look to you, and let us surrender all our sorrow, trials, and heaviness to you right now. We can’t carry it, it’s just too much but you never said for us to carry it anyway! Amen!

By: Marla Shaw O’Neill October 14, 2015©

Let the Music be Heard Devotional October 12, 2015

 ¹² The birds of the sky live beside the springs;
they sing among the foliage.
¹³ He waters the mountains from His palace;
the earth is satisfied by the fruit of Your labor.

Psalm 104:10-13 (HCSB)

How long has it been since you took that part of you that longs to sing and dance out of the box?

Don’t you think it’s time to dust the box off and let the music be heard?

It is said that if you want to stop a bird from singing; cover it with a blanket…

It’s time to take the blanket off and let the music out…

God put music in all of his creatures…

Haven’t you heard them many times? Or has your ear become deaf to the music?

Remember in childhood waking up, when windows were open, and on a clear springtime’s day you heard the birds singing their lovely melodies…

Or maybe you were in a forest or a field and birds were everywhere sending their songs upon the wind…

This is where dreams are made…

Giggling in the night…with best friends…sleep overs staying up all night…

Skipping down an old dirt road, tossing stones into a nearby creek, running bare foot all summer long…

Dreaming of who you’d be when you grew up…

Stop and remember for just a moment…listen to the birds song…life gets complicated…and busy and filled with many things that take you to nowhere…and then the curtain, like a blanket is thrown over you and the music stops…

But it doesn’t have to be that way…

Oh no!

RISE UP; GET UP; PRAY TO THE MUSIC MAKER AND SAY…I WILL SING…I WILL DANCE…I WILL MAKE THE MUSIC PLAY AGAIN!

Lord Jesus, let us hear your music today, the music you placed within each of us and let us play it for your glory…without restraint in total reckless abandonment let us sing and dance and write and be all that you have created us to be…Amen!

By: Marla Shaw O’Neill October 12, 2015©

https://www.youtube.com/watch?annotation_id=annotation_619249&feature=iv&src_vid=jLnL63cXmD8&v=JH_cM59JY34

Let God Know You are in the Room - Devotional October 9, 2015

24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” John 4:24 New Living Translation (NLT)

 Have you ever tried talking to someone who was not in the room with you?

Did you get an answer?

Well God is the same way, He’s always present and He is always watching and listening. He is often talking to us but we are not in the same room with Him.

You see it takes us having an awareness of Him. He won’t force Himself on anyone. Oh He’s God and He can do whatever He wants. The old saying you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink…that’s true…but you can salt his oats.

Sometimes, God just salts our oats, so to speak!

God is a Spirit and He is Truth; therefore, we must worship him in spirit and truth! Our carnal mind is enmity with Him. In other words our flesh cannot worship in the spirit God! It gets in the way! It keeps us out of the room where God is.

So…

We have to put our flesh, our minds, and our carnality aside. All it takes is faith. Putting down our flesh, asking God to wash our hearts and minds and cleanse us so that we can go into the Holies of Holies where God dwells. In Jesus name!

With a pure heart; a clean heart; talk to our Papa God and let the Holy Spirit show you who He is! Come before Him with praises and thanksgiving…love on God like you would a loving, caring parent! Simply love on Him!

Maybe you've never experienced the love of a parent…maybe you've never experienced the presence of God. You can, if you will open up your heart.

Try it you’ll be amazed at the conversations you will encounter!

“How?” you ask…

It’s not a mystical or far off place, you can be with him in a heartbeat…you simply open your heart and talk to Him. But do it with a loving, affectionate attitude, you will come away blessed!

It is the best…there is no better place to be than with Him. After you experience His presence you will never want to leave.

Do it…but do it in spirit and in truth! Be honest with Him.

It’s just a simple heart to heart talk with the best friend you’ll ever have. He longs for you to come! You may only have a few moments in your busy day…but it will be the best part of your day, if you’ll make the effort!

God bless you and remember…He’s waiting for you! He loves you so much!

Papa, papa God, in the name of my precious savior Jesus, let us come before you right now and embrace your love. Let all stress and doubt and fear vanish as we sit before you in total surrender and worship you in the spirit and in truth. By faith I sit in your lap and lay my head upon your breast and I breathe you in. Your fragrance is like honey and freshness in a wintery forest. Your presence is like a cozy blanket of perfect peace and rest comforting to my soul. Thank you Jesus. Thank you. I love you my Lord.

"I love you too my child."

By: Marla Shaw O'Neill October 9, 2015©

God Said... - Devotional October 8, 2015

God said!

God said, “I will never fail you or abandon you!” Deuteronomy 31:6
God said, “I will be with always.” Matthew 28:20
God said, “Trust me with all your heart and don’t lean on your own understanding…” Proverbs 3:5
God said, “I will lead you in the paths of righteousness…” Psalm 23:3
God said, “Don’t be afraid…” Isaiah 41:10
God said, “This battle is mine…” II Chronicles 20:15
God said, “Take no thought for tomorrow, live today.” Matthew 6:34
God said, “I sent my son to die for you… John 3:16
God said, “I want to give you an abundant life…” John 10:10
God said, “Trust me. I got this.” Psalms 40:1-17
God said, “I will supply all your needs according to my riches in glory.” Philip. 4:19
God said, “My grace is enough for you…!” II Corinthians 12:9
God said, “I have sent you the comforter he is inside you and will guide you in all truth.” John 14:26
God said, “I have conquered Death and Hades…” Revelation 1:18
God said, “In me you live and breathe and have your being.” Acts 17:28
God said, “Follow me.” Matthew 4:19
God said, “I am the way the truth and the life.” John 14:6
God said, “Go.” (Tell others about me.) Mark 16:15
God said, “Love your enemies…” (Pray for those who persecute you.) Matthew 5:44
God said, “Love one another.” John 13:34
God said, “Have faith in me.” (Without faith it is impossible to please me.) Heb. 11:6
God said, “I will heal you.” Jeremiah 30:17
God said, “This is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased… Matthew 3:17
God said, “I will return!” Revelation 22:7
God said, “Watch and pray.” Matthew 26:41

Holy Father, in the name of your son Jesus, wash us and cleanse us today, I ask that we read your word…and obey your word. I ask that we have faith in you and trust you; for you have the words of eternal life. AMEN!

By Marla Shaw O’Neill October 8, 2015©

Weep With Those Who Weep - Devotional October 7, 2015

15 Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:15New Living Translation (NLT)

Have you ever watched a little child; they get excited over balloons and birthday cake…I was in the store today waiting in line behind this little girl. She must have been about four years old. She kept pointing at the balloons and shouting…”I like that one…I like that one…mommy, I want that one for my birthday. We’ll have cake and balloons.” I joyed in her excitement and exuberance. Oh to be young again. No I don’t think so.

But I do love to watch little children, they live in a totally different world than adults. Not a care in the world. Happy and carefree, their tiny hearts not tarnished by prejudice or stereotypes, accepting of everything, they just want to play.

Right before going into that store I sat in my car and wept. I couldn’t shake it…I thought of my mom and her lovely face kept popping up in my mind and I missed her beyond words. I literally broke down and bellowed. It just hits, sometimes and there is absolutely noting to be done but let it play itself out. Shoot, it hasn’t even been three months since she died. I guess it’s ok to still cry. There’s no time limit really. But sometimes I feel guilty about hurting over the loss. I shouldn’t, I know. I mean there’s no manual that says you can only have this much time…get over it. I know she's in a wonderful place...probably saying to Jesus, "Just look at that amazing sunrise"... or she's talking to her favorite bible character, and still getting to know all the angels names. Still I miss her being here with us!

With the changing of the seasons and the holidays coming, it seems it will get worse before better…So I’m just going to go with it…if it hits me and you happen to see me crying…just whisper a little prayer for me. After all none of us are exempt from this happening…we are only human! I miss her a lot!

And one day…I will see her again! I love you mom! I know; you love me more!

Lord, touch everyone who has lost a loved one, give comfort and grace for the pain. Give them the time they need to grieve let the healing be as a warm balm that soothes the ache in the heart. In time let the memories of our loved ones flood us with happiness and let the tears become diamonds in a crown of love. Amen!

By Marla Shaw O'Neill October 7, 2015©

Arise O My Soul - Devotional October 5, 2015

2 Chronicles 20:20-22King James Version (KJV)

20 And they rose early in the morning, and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa: and as they went forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.

21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the Lord, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the Lord; for his mercy endureth forever.

22 And when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.

Arise, O my soul
Awake out of the dark
Arise and sing unto the Lord, Praise His Holy name
For His mercy endures forever
Stand and sing out, before the armies of the Lord
Praise him in the beauty of holiness
Singers praise Him; we set an ambush against the enemies of our God
Let them fall, ten thousands upon ten thousands…
Sing, glorious ones…sing and give praises to the Lord
Our warfare is swift and unbeatable, for the Lord goes before us…
The enemy is fallen they cannot stand against the armies of the Most High…
In singing we defeat the enemy…
Singing brings victory…
They lie smitten and defeated!
No retreat, No mercy, the battle is complete.
Principalities and powers of darkness in high places crumble
Sing songs of praise to our God! The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob!
Our Messiah, Jesus is Alive!
He’s coming on the clouds of glory!
Praise His Holy Name!

By: Marla Shaw O’Neill October 5, 2015©

As for Me and My House... Devotional October 5, 2015



Joshua 24:15…”But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.”

I found the following; among some writings of my mother’s… I call these tid-bits, “Mama’s Pearls.” She left this earth on July, 2015. Mom ministered the gospel of Jesus Christ for over fifty years. She was a prayer warrior in every sense of the word and she read her bible every single day…reading it through many, many, times…I hope this blesses you.

The Family

The family is like a book…
The children are the leaves,
The parents are the covers…
That protecting beauty gives...
At first the pages of the book
Are blank and purely fair,
But soon time writeth memories
And painteth pictures there...
Love is the little golden clasp,
That bindeth up the trust…
O, break it not…
Lest all the leaves should scatter and be lost…
A little love will heal a hurt,
A lot of love will give
Precious moments to a soul
And make it want to live.
(Author unknown)

(Often a fellow’s burden is just more than he can bear, but his burden will be lighter, if you prove to him you care.)

Hear our prayer today,

“Father, God, in the name of your son Jesus, our Messiah, I ask that you protect our families…give us your grace to walk in your way…I thank you for giving us the Holy Spirit to teach us and guide us through this life…and who, will take us all the way home. But until that time, I ask that our lights will shine before men that they will glorify you, father God and long to know you. Amen”

By: Marla Shaw O’Neill October 5, 2015©