I can't believe I woke up at 7:30. The coolness of the day was throughout the house. We left windows open to keep things cool and it did. I love this time of year, when we can get fresh air, sorta, through the screens and still enjoy the warmth of our blankets as though we were into winter season already. Di loves the cool room. I had to get used to it. 

The war rages on and still, I hear the same news every morning. "They are about to enter Gaza..."

How much longer will this be? I am thinking Biblically. We are so close to the end. All the signs point to what the Word speaks; and has for years. Our information is so crystal clear and yet the number of people fighting against 'good' is overwhelming. I can't believe my eyes to see so many young people distracted by the left thinkers. They have really laid out a good plan to destroy our young ones. All the hype and misdirected views have really taken hold of the thinking. How can it be so easy for me to see what's going and not for them? Father, help me to spread Your Word better. I have been so blessed and the mercy shown is undeserved, yet Father is still blessing and teaching me and being patient. 

What's next? We are surely in for a roller coaster ride of the century. I can see events about to happen and don't know how they will actually fall into place. The only thing I know for sure is that God is in control and His plan is good. We suffer the consequences of our action more than we think. I am grateful for the patience of God. Otherwise we would all be toast.

Join with me in prayer for all the soldiers on the frontlines. Some will most certainly give their all in this great conflict, but their reward is eternal for the sacrifice. Bless our leaders that have to send our troops into battle. I'm sure the weight  sits heavy on their shoulders. I only hope that they pray a lot about what they are about to do.

God bless America and God bless Israel.

 How cool is that?

We often find ourselves in places that are uncomfortable. I know, you're possibly thinking it's a location, but that's not what I'm talking about. The 'location' I'm referring to is relational. We say or do something that sets the tone in a totally different place than intended. 

I emailed a friend the other day and he totally misunderstood what I 'said' as being negative, when it wasn't meant that way at all. I had to back track a little to calm him down somewhat and get the 'train' back on the track I was aiming for. 

I love words. I even named the blog after words. Words are so expressive, but only when they can be 'heard' in the right context. We often think we are being 'heard' when we are not. The fast pace of our lives today can set us up for a lot of misunderstood dialogue along the way. I am becoming more and more aware of this issue because we are getting into some pretty tricky situations around the globe and not many people are stopping long enough to actually listen to a point of view past the first few words in the sentences. I hear people interrupt others before they can even finish a thought and suddenly go in the opposite direction the speaker was going with his or her point. There's too much confusion here. 

We all just need to slow down long enough to let the other guy say what he or she has on their mind and 'then' comment. It sure would cut down on a lot of the arguments that are happening right now. No matter what side you are on, it's does take a little diplomacy to navigate this world, to say the least .

Love is or should be a big part of our loves and the lack there of sets the stage for some awful  outcomes. Without love we are crippled and not really able to function properly. Let your mind relax a bit when you think someone is going against the grain. They may not have the ability to express themselves quite right, but their heart may still be in the right place. We should give each other a little more slack, especially right now. Would you agree? I sure hope so. I love people but I abhor hate and discontent. If I can comfort someone, I am comforted. It just works that way for me. 

Great words of encouragement
I saw this online and had to share it with all of you today. Our hearts go out to our wonderful friends in Israel as they suffer the loss of loved ones and fellow warriors. We are are certainly in the End Times. See the news reports and compare that to what our Bible says so plainly. It's the same thing. Here's the quote I wanted to pass along to everyone.... Be blessed.

Occupy Until I Come!

"Get ready to see the Kingdom of Heaven penetrate every area of your life. Get ready to see My hands work in the smallest details of your life.

"Rather than disorder, your life will have order, and rather than disease, your life will feel at ease because My hands will be working. You will see your enemies humbled before your eyes, and you will know that it's the Lord's hands at work.

"Times of volatility and instability will arise, but do not fear, for I am with you, and will uphold you in My right hand. What you put your mind to do will prosper, and what you put your hands to do will succeed, for I, the Lord your God, will give you success.

"Occupy until I come, and continue to occupy. Don't let anything hold you back, for I am breaking the spirit of delay from you. You will run and not grow weary and you will walk and not faint, for your strength will come from Me.

"This is the month where your faithfulness will be rewarded, and more authority shall be given. This is the month where you will start to see the transfer of wealth. This is the month where I am assigning you as My Kingdom partner and trusting you with heavenly resources.

"You will hear Me say, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much.' You will hear Me say, 'More will be given; more will be entrusted. Things will suddenly start to line up.'"

 

The most important Time of the World

The information is coming in hot and fast. We are in the beginning of the most important time of the world. Yes, I said it. "The most important time in the world."

Look at the news and then look at your Bible. It's the same thing. All the former words are becoming the latter words. All  the statements about the people and the countries of the world are a mimicking of the Word. God is showing Himself to us in new and better and stronger ways. Prepare. Yes, get ready, because things will begin to happen faster and faster than ever before. The evil one has set his chief human up to begin his attempt to take over the world and it will look as though he can actually do it. BUT GOD. Yes, BUT GOD.

God already has a plan in play. He has from the beginning. How stupid is the evil of our world to run head long into the mouth of destruction, not knowing that it is sheer folly to try. Our lives are not our own. The roadmap has already been laid out before us. All we have to do is 'read the signs' and follow the path. That is our only salvation; our only recourse and assurance of safety. Don't be fooled by the hype or the promises to keep you from being involved in what's going on. The world is already 'covered ' by the intelligence sector of the enemy. "They" know who you are. They know where you are and they know what you profess to believe. The time of not being able to buy or sell if you are Christian is upon us now. Look at what the banks are doing. They are shutting down the major Christian's accounts left and right and the 'little guy' is next. They will control the money, the water, the food, the fuel and the land. Our only safety is in the Lord. I will be surprised if this post stays up for very long unless they don't have a very strong 'marker' on me. I know I'm probably not very important in their eyes thus far and that's good. Because I fully intend to be a lot more vocal from now on. We can't sit by any longer. The time is "NOW" to stand for the right or get left behind to suffer the consequences of our lack of effort to spread the Word of the Lord to the ones that don't have any idea of what's transpiring. The trap has been set and in some places even sprung in places that have less knowledge and understanding than we do. Unsuspecting people are being swallowed up by the actions of the evil one and his minions. Look around you. You can surely see the way things have changed where you are. Are you still not aware of what's going on around you? I think, deep down inside there is a 'knowing' beginning to grow inside of you and that you are at least curious as to what it is. God has instilled in each and every one of us a 'knower'. That little something that's informing us of the changes about to happen. He said, "in the last days I will pour out my Spirit upon all men..." That's what is burning inside of you right now and alerting you to the urgency of the times and prompting you to take action. 

Don't wait. Pray right now , that God lifts you up and begins the process of getting you ready for His soon return to planet earth and what will follow. Don't take a chance on being left out of the process. It's life and death to us all right now whether you believe it or not. Just be aware of what I'm saying and balance it against what is going on each day.  It will come about or I will be wrong and found to be crazy and under the influence of untrue beliefs and information.

I pray a blessing on you right now as your friend. "God , bless the ears and the minds of each and everyone that reads this post. May it resonate in their hearts and minds and be a witness to them of your great love for all mankind; not wishing any one to perish because of unbelief. Thank you for hearing my prayer in Jesus' name amen.

 Stagnant.

Nothing worse than feeling worn out inside and stagnant. The guilt alone kicks butt; both cheeks.

But I do look forward and not back. I think that is imperative today especially. Had a back and forth with a client about being 'sick and tired'. all he could say was how mistreated he had been and how everything had gone wrong and this and that. At first I felt sorry for him but the more he dragged it out, the less sympathy I could muster. I tried to encourage and exhort him but he only wanted to wallow in his self pity, so I let him. Sad to be him.

The people that bring on bad things in their lives by living in the negative are so unfortunate. I see people with major disabilities that have great courage and high spirits and it mesmerizes me. They exude a triumphant attitude and barely see the unimaginable hurt they have suffered. This guy was all but blaming God for his woes. He called himself, "God's test Dummy". How awful. I think deep down he is crying out for recognition and doesn't know that he can easily get it by being positive. He has great talents and does some amazing things with a camera, but his main objective is to point to his dilemma instead of the blessings. I will keep him on my prayer list and see how God helps him work these things out; if he 'listens'.

The rain has begun. How awesome is the sound of thunder in the distance and the rhythm of the raindrops on the metal rook of the deck outside. We have a concert every time it rains. The birds are first up with all the twittering and chirping; announcing the coming storm and then it grows silent as the clouds arrange themselves in the 'orchestra pit' and begin 'tuning up' before the impending concert. I sit very still and listen for the beginning melodies of the 'sprinkle section' and then the broad strings of the wind section that usher in the big guns. It's always amazing and never the same song; always brand new. How marvelous is our God. He always thrills His children with His majesty and innovation.

We have so much to look forward to. That's why I try so desperately to never look back. The past is a deep hole that can swallow you up before you know it and oh how hard it is to climb up and out of it. You're never the same after looking back. The mistakes are magnified and the successes are minimized.... nothing good ever comes from living in the past. Don't.

I'll stop for now and go listen to the 'concert' some more. Blessings

How do we get so caught up in things? I found myself engrossed in looking at my friends pictures on Facebook after posting my newest song. I have a lot of other things to do right now but.... "squirrel"!

We are so easily distracted today. Our options keep growing and our time is shorter and shorter on how much of it we can devote to the task at hand.

The recording is picking up in pace and quality, so I am pleased with the progress thus far. look for more posts on Facebook if you have time and give me an opinion. I need input on how it sounds, content and over all quality, so thanks ahead of time for your input.

The day is Sunday. Neither Di or I made it to church today. We both had separate issues and it just wasn't in the cards. It's very rare to miss, but I think it gave me a different perspective on how the week takes place and precedence over other things in our lives.

Changes are taking place everywhere. I see a difference in the 'landscape' in Washington and so hope that the lights are fully turned on to the happenings there. It's so overdue on getting our country back in God's hands and out of the wicked leaders control we have been presented with for so many years. One of the politicians, who will remain unnamed here, has been receiving a lot of 'favors' through the years. He must have a lot of 'leverage' on his counterparts to be able to get by with all that has transpired in his 40 plus career. God keeps good books, so I know the reckoning is coming. 

It really makes me take inventory more often knowing I too have to stand before him one day and give account of my mistakes and sins. I owe more than I could ever pay, but that's not how it works. God looks at the heart and I hope mine is favorable.

Thanks for stopping by again. I so long to be able to do this a lot more often. 

The Circle of Life

 What does it mean when we say. "we travel in  different circles?"

I really don't think it's a good thing to go in a circle all the time or only associate with 'certain'  people. We were made to relate to and with each other, even if we differ on various subjects. The Bible instructs us to "be at peace" with each other and put aside petty bickering and self seeking.

Should we be going 'in a circle'?

I thought the best way to go was 'straight ahead, not looking to the left or the right..."

Is that left, as in policy and politics ; or right? Is that meant to keep us with blinders on, with the potential of missing something or making the wrong choice on a matter, because it was 'out of sight' at the moment of contact? 

I get confused with man's definitions. God, on the other hand has clear instructions and positive input that lends itself to my being comfortable in my own skin. The 'closed off' minds are a bother to me. Not that we should be 'open minded' and operate under the premise that compromise is best. No. But compensation is quite the other thing. If we compensate for someone's 'need' it makes us peacemakers. If we 'contend' about petty things it makes us controlling and hard headed; backward if you will.

I make myself do things that I would really rather do another way. But if I'm going to be humble, I need to concentrate on doing just that.

Our lives are so short and filled with experiences. We should relish each one and treasure those experiences and have a log of positive things to look back on and know that we're in the center of His will and not on the fringe or even totally 'out of it'.

I pray that my messages reach the hearts and minds of those in need of encouragement and comfort, and that all I say and do is in God's perfect will.

Blessings are coming. Blessings are essential to our being; our 'well being' if you will. We have to be on the look out for the evil one's devices. He uses us against each other to bring about strife and division that tears us apart; especially when we are about to have a breakthrough. Let our 'yea' be 'yea' and our 'nay be 'nay' and let everything else fall away like the dross in the fire.

Nothing brings or grows the seed of bitterness faster than misunderstanding and avarice. We  'must' love one another, no matter the cost to our egos and feelings. Cast aside all malice and bring yourselves under control as the Holy Spirit instructs and places knowledge inside our spiritman.

 Life offers many choices

What is it that keeps us from fulfilling our destinies? Are we being handicapped by some unforeseen enemy that launches a diabolical plot to render us speechless and helpless in even the simplest of settings? Yes, that's basically it. The enemy of our souls 'goes about as a raging lion' trying to bring us down to his level. He's a failure; always has been, and we should recognize that as early as we possibly can so that we can combat the villain and overcome.

Our wisdom is from the Lord. We derive our being from Him. We survive only because He grants us our next breath. Anyone that doesn't recognize that fact is in real danger. Not just in this world, but in the world to come. Denying doesn't undo what God has done, nor will it ever be possible to be the master of your own fate. God decides who lives and dies every day. unless you believe in the one true God, Jehovah, you have basically signed your life away to a fate and a future of eternal torment that wasn't ever meant for you. God designed Hell for the demons and their so called 'boss'. You weren't in that original plan. The ones that go there choose Hell by denying the existence of God and His saving grace.

Your life depends on your choices. Search deep into your heart and cast away everything else, for just a moment, except your question about the reality of God. He will answer that question if you truly listen and look for it. If you are really looking for the truth, you will find it by 'listening' for God's voice. Your answer may come in a song or in a sentence someone is saying that you overhear in a coffee shop or by reading an article in a magazine. God can speak to us in many ways. We just have to concentrate on Him and He will reveal Himself to you. That is a promise from the Bible. Actually, reading the Bible is a very good way to get the answers you are seeking about life and the reality of God. The Bible is a living organism. It comes alive as we read and leads us in the ways of righteousness and truth. It guides us and teaches how to overcome the enemies of this world in ways no other entity can. Not even the smartest person you know can out think or perform like God.

Blessed be the name of the Lord. His ways are not our ways. His ways are so much higher, deeper and knowledgeable than our ways. We are creations. He is the Creator. It is very wise on your part to find out if what I'm telling you is true or not; wouldn't you think?

I'm not trying to convince you, I'm trying to save you. The chances that you are going through something very important in your life right now, while reading this blog, that may well change to entire outcome of your life as you know it, is very likely. God often 'takes us places' so we can find solutions to our troubles when we least expect it. You may have been checking out blogs for no particular reason and here I am. Someone may have told you about this post and you took the time to look it up. A famous comedian uses the line, "Here's yer sign", as a punch line. Well, 'here's yer sign'.

I pray that you get the answers you seek. There's nothing worse than having an unanswered question plaguing your mind. It can keep you awake, it can distract you all day, it can depress you and discourage you to the point of giving up or giving in to some addiction. Don't let that happen! Seek the voice of God and you will find rest for your soul. I did and I am at peace now. I was tormented and defeated by what life had thrown at me , over and over again. I saw no way out and even considered taking my life to get past the torment. God intervened and here I am today, encouraging you to not give up, but to give God a chance to change your life for the better.

There are many choices in ones life, especially in today's world. The enemy of our souls lays out choice after choice that only takes us deeper and deeper into sin and failure. But God has a plan for your life. A plan that only has good things in store; if you trust Him and try His way. 

It takes time. Things don't get 'rosy' overnight. You will fight many battles but you will have the one true God on your side, showing you how to be a winner and not a loser. I encourage you today. I pray for your soul; that it finds rest in seeking the Lord. He is merciful and always forgives those with a sincere heart. 

Be a winner. Choose God. 

 The Summer progresses.

I woke up early in the morning; sometime after midnight. The calm and peace are ever present in the house now. I stayed up for a while and finally went back to bed some time later. The yard light illuminates the whole back yard and draws me to the window in the back door to peer out and look for 'critters'. Haven't seen any as yet, but I think the Fall will bring them out a bit more.  

We keep worship music playing throughout the day and that sets the tone for our work. Speaking of work, I just finished a funeral video for a man in Missouri. I felt as though it was a project that I needed to do for whatever reason, but it was confirmed to me as soon as I saw his Korean War veteran hat in one of the pictures. I like it when I get confirmations.

The hot summer is winding down now. We have had a couple of decent days where the heat index is down. I'm so ready for Fall. 

We still have the huge task of emptying boxes from the two trailers ahead of us. The heat has kept us away from them except in short spells I have yet to locate the record computer and some other studio pieces, but I think the Lord is delaying that for some reason. My spirit is not rushed to search for it, so I feel the reason will come when the box is found.

Di has installed a hummingbird feeder just outside her office window. She enjoys the occasional 'fly by' of a single bird. He or she, whatever that might be, floats in the window and looks in at her and then fly's off in search of more nectar elsewhere. Di gets great joy feeding the neighborhood animals unless they are destructive. I named the local squirrel, 'Bandit', because he is destructive. He chewed a hole in one of our coolers trying to get into the bird seed supply and then figured out how to open the top and just crawled right in and began munching away. We stood watching at the very moment he crawled into the box and sprang into action, driving him away. He swishes his tail violently when  we admonish him as if to say, "Who do you think you are? Don't you know this is my neighborhood!"

I like the neighborhood so far. It is quiet and not much traffic to disturb the peace even though we are at a four way stop. I will be interested to see how quiet it is on the 4th of July.

All in all, things are settling down here and rightfully so. We have been a little disheveled since the move, but I expect everything to settle nicely into place very soon.

 I really get a kick outta life when someone asks me a favor.

I looked at my phone this afternoon and saw that a friend had reached out for a favor. She had a request for a letter of reference as to whether or not she is a good person. I was flattered that she would ask me to write something of this nature and I immediately began to think of how I would portray her; in the kindest of terms, of course.

Often times we see people in our lives as a 'type'. Their character traits are visible to a certain extent and we form an opinion about the person based on our observations. Some people 'act' a certain way to get people to think of them as 'this kind of person' or 'that kind of person', when they really aren't that way at all. They just want to be seen as a certain kind of person to improve their standing.

This friend isn't like that at all. Her heart is as big as Texas and she always considers others over what she wants or needs. A real and giving soul with a deep love for others. I have learned a lot from the way she treats the people around her. It would be a much better world if everyone was as kind as my friend.

Right now, I see her going through a huge trial that is affecting her deeply. The eyes are a dead give away. Publicly, she acts as though she's fine, but the truth is, she is hurting and I don't know how to 'fix it' for her. I do know that only God can intervene in matters like these and I ask Him to do so when I pray. 

We never really know what others go through unless they share their problem, and even then we can't really 'feel' what the other person feels unless we've 'been there', right?

Look at the ones around you that seem to be succeeding in life. What are they like? How do they handle issues, really difficult issues that can tear apart a family or bring it together. Now look at your own life. Are you succeeding? I pray that it is so. But if you're not succeeding, do you know why? Have you taken inventory and discovered the one thing, or the many things that are holding you back? Believe me, that is not an easy task. Taking stock of your own life takes courage and persistence to be sure. Many among us look in the mirror and quickly look away. Their conscience 'can't take the heat'.

However, when someone is truly seeking the truth for their lives, the door to understanding can be flung wide with only a few simple steps. Mindset has to be 'righted' like a wavering boat on the water. You have to get control of your thinking and establish a baseline of what's real and what isn't.

There are a lot of 'systems' out there that don't really work. Most of them are only designed to take you further down the rabbit holes of confusion so the 'salesman' can sell you a bill of goods. When the plan fails, you look at yourself in the mirror, again, and still turn away in disappointment. What a vicious circle.

Consider this. Get your Bible out and sit down in a quiet place and rest a minute or two until everything is still. Now you are ready to begin a simple but wildly effective approach to finding out and knowing truth.

Since the Bible is a living organism, a spiritual being if you will, you can talk to it as though it is a close friend that only wants the best for you. Ask God to 'speak' to you through His Word and begin reading. Where, you say?

A good place to begin is the Gospel of John. However, if you read the Bible on a more regular basis, ask God where He would like you to begin and wait until He answers. It won't be long.

Answers come by 'hearing' someone tell you the answer. Sometimes it 'comes to mind' and other times an actual person tells you or a song tells you or you read the answer somewhere. Make no mistake, God will answer your requests. That is why He made us. To have a relationship with us and fellowship with us and help us and.....

This approach often takes more than one try. "If at first you don't succeed..." There is no issue where God does not have the answer. He is the Creator, the designer if you will, of how we are put together. Who knows a product better than the designer and manufacturer?

Don't rely on man for the answers to your deepest questions. Man is just like you. We are all fallible and most are selfish and self serving, so take that into consideration when you really 'need to know' something.

 Well, it finally happened! I got the main computer up and running a few moments ago and I am delighted! It's been 3 months since I signed off to tear down the old studio and begin the dreaded moving experience. Every time we move, we swear we'll never do it again. I think this may be the last one 'fer sure'. 

Dianna has been up and running for two weeks or more and she still has yet to catch up. I honestly hope it won't take that long for me. Of course, I have a lot less on my plate than she does and certainly wouldn't want any of the daily headaches she puts up with...

I marvel at her resiliency. I watch her day by day, going about her busy routine and can't, for the life of me, understand how that girl does what she does. (I think she's a robot sometimes...!) Never misses a beat.... never misses a day's work and never seems to stop coming up with solutions to all but impossible situations. I think Marvel modeled their "Wonder Woman" after my wife.(Except for the bracelets)

Our new house is surely an answer to a prayer; or more like a hundred prayers. We are less that 5 minutes away from the church and that in and of itself is a major blessing. I think our monthly fuel costs were somewhere over $200 per month when we were going back and forth from Piedmont. Praise God!

The only thing at this point that bothers me is having to go through all of these boxes! Do boxes multiply when you put them near each other? I could have sworn that there was only half this many when we left Piedmont. They must be ma de out of rabbit skins.

I have so many ideas buzzing around in my brain on what to record first. Should I do the short children stories or the devotionals Dianna has stored up in her pretty little head? It's a quandary. I'll need to find the recorder pretty soon before I bust! It's exciting none the less.

There is a new website on the horizon. My friend Samuel Davis has commissioned me to build a site fore his ministry. He travels quite a bit and speaks across America and other countries about what he is accomplishing for Christ in Uganda. The results are stunning. He has seen 800 salvations from his last conference alone and plans for further expansion in the coming months . The programs are cleverly designed to bring success to formerly destitute people in his area. They have been plagued by poverty for years on end and Samuel , with the leading hand of God is showing real promise and hope to a large contingent of his countrymen and women.

The sun rises and sets and there is no change in the weather. We are in the peak of summer. 100 degree days are the norm until sometime next week when we are supposed to get some relief. I pray that it is so. Each time I go out into the heat it's as though I'm walking into a blast furnace. I do not know how people can survive without air conditioning. I suppose they get used to not having it and their bodies tolerate the temperatures . 

Those of you that pray, please lift up my friend "J". She is suffering from depression anxiety. I can so relate to that. I had a terrible experience when I was much younger that produced a deep depression. Feeling as though there is no hope, no way out; the worst thoughts travel through our minds in that state. Only God can save. Only God can heal these wounds, prayer warriors, thank God for you. Your devotion to lifting others up to our great Master is truly a wonderful gift and calling. May God richly bless your work and bring about the revival of hope in the ones in trouble in their mind.

I was up early this morning. Not a norm for me by any means. I woke and had the urgency to pray. I didn't know what to pray for, but I knew I had the need. After a few moments, I realized that I was to go to the Word and read. It feels good when the 'leading' comes. I should be more aware of those moments.

I opened up in Romans, where I have been reading for over a week now. The words sunk deep into my heart and I realized that our great gift has certainly come at a great cost for our Jewish brothers and sisters. Since God blinded their eyes for a time, we have been able to be 'grafted in' and made a part of the family of God by our faith and belief. Paul rambles a bit here and there, but I truly believe it's for a purpose. He's trying to get through our 'thick heads' and into the spiritman side so we can 'operate' as we were designed by the Creator. I so love understanding. The Word gets clearer and clearer the more I stay with it. The hunger grows and the knowledge presents itself in a way that even an unlearned person like myself can grasp these deep truths and precepts laid out by the Father for His children. 

I am a poor reader. I sometimes have to go back over the same passages time and time again to fully grasp the real meaning. It's easy to 'skim over' and get the general meanings, but when you delve deeper the results are deeper, the meanings are made simple and understandable and the end result is a satisfaction that God has 'spoken' to you in a way that you can relate to as a child does that accepts the father's guidance and love. How easy it is to love Him. A few moments with Him is everything.

Our day was good. The Spirit of the Lord was evident today as we worshiped and listened to the message. Brother Robert gave an exceptional message on being saved and staying saved; with many scriptures included that certified and verified the point. Too many use the Baptist doctrine of 'once saved always saved' to their advantage and don't actually refer to the Word for what is really the truth about it. 

God is very specific about 'enduring to the end' when it comes to salvation, but man has distorted that belief and I'm sure there are those in jeopardy because of it.

 I pray that our minds are clear on this because it means life and death to us when we misinterpret the Word and 'bend it' to our own selfish wills. God is not mocked. His truth is truth and there is no exceptions to the rule.

How we treat the Word has everything to do with obedience and peace in our lives. We must be in line with the Word or we separate ourselves from God and bring about a whole new set of circumstances that are detrimental to our whole existence. 

I listened intently to the message, knowing Robert had done his homework on the subject. His 'take' on things has a very insightful touch. It's easy to see why God has blessed him with this gift. I'm sure he will reach many souls for Christ in his ministry. I will continue to pray for him to mature in the Word and in his relationship with the Master.

Dianna has cooked for the first time in the new house. I could feel her delight and I could feel her slight frustration in not having things 'in order' as she was preparing this first meal.

We are both excited to see what God will do with this ministry here in our new location. We have longed to get back to full time ministry but we believe that will take a bit longer to accomplish unless God does things faster than we expect; and that's always possible.

Our friends have been a huge asset to us in this move; sacrificing time and resources to help us 'move the world' once more. I can't believe how much 'stuff' we have. It's like it multiples overnight and grows more as each day progresses.

I can't wait to assemble the studio furniture. We have a new desk and two new shelves to put things on. the look is totally modern and slimmed down to a much sleeker look. I don't know where everything is right now but I will tackle both trailers with a vengeance and unpack as swiftly as I can in order to get back up and 'running' again. I can't believe it's been 3 months since I 'signed off' and began breaking down the equipment in order to transport it here to the new house. So much work to get it packed and loaded and so much to go before it's reassembled and working again.

The day is closing out now and the sun is retreating in the western sky. Di is resting on the couch after a day long effort to prepare and serve and clean up. Bless her heart. I see the zeal in her eyes as she watches the people go through the line, getting plates full of her delicious food. So many others are bringing in their favorite dishes as well, to share amongst the church members as our lives are enriched with love and fun and with learning things about each other. It's easy to see the blessings God is pouring out here. We have been through a great deal these past few years and to see how far we have come; it's amazing. A lot of churches have crumbled and no longer exist, but this one is thriving because two people heard the call and answered. God has truly blessed us.

 I am looking into the future. It looks bright and sunny and flowering with new blooms each day. 

Of course, I am being frivolous. Only crazy people can see into the future, right? Not necessarily. I can think of several that have successfully seen into what is coming and recorded it for posterity. 

The Book of Revelation comes to mind instantly. God gave John insight into the future and instructed him to record what he 'saw'. Our interpretations of his writings have certainly changed over the years; many of whom declared the end of the world coming at one point or another. 

For one thing, I don't think we 'listen' very well when God is speaking to us. I think I would be so afraid, that I dare say, I don't know if I could even stay conscious. I would most likely just faint on the spot!

The future is pretty much a constant topic in one way or another. People plan their schedules around the future when they watch the weather each day. 

"It's going to be rainy and storms will come in a 'this  time' and end at 'this time'." People 'bet' on what will happen in the future all the time. The stock market pretty much lives in the future. Supposition is common.

I have determined to not bank on the future. Too many variables. Too many circumstances changing without notice. I'm just gonna sit back and take things as they come. Now that doesn't mean that I'm being lazy. No, I just don't trust what man says anymore. There are too many of them out there that are only out for selfish gains and have ulterior motives. I think I'm better off trusting in 'a higher power' than man. God's a lot smarter.

We are sitting in a local coffee spot enjoying some 'down time'. I like these places. No one bothers us. We can visit or work online and pass the time away as we see fit. I like it. I know the days ahead are going to be filled to the brim with activity. As we begin the moving in process, our schedules will fill up with 'have tos' and 'honey dos', so these quiet times are at a premium for now. And, I get to spend them with Dianna; that's the best part.

Once we actually do make the move our lives will change significantly. We had been driving an hour one way to church when we were out in Piedmont. The distance has shortened to a 25 to 30 minute trip, but once we get into the new place, our distance drops to a few short blocks. That was definitely an answer to a prayer. the savings in fuel alone will be a big plus. I think it was near or over $200 per month to make the trips from Piedmont and back.

Our time is precious. The way we spend it is crucial to our spiritman. If we waste time on frivolous things, we lose time we could be spending with the Lord. We could be learning 'how' to do things His way and be quite a bit more successful.

I'm reminded of a story I tell about our son, Michael. He was about 11 or 12 and had an issue with his bicycle chain coming off.

"Dad, can you help me get the chain back on my bike?"

"Sure son, bring it up onto the porch and get the plyers out and I'll be right there." I arrived a minute or two later to find the bike turned upside down, wheels in the air and him feverishly twisting and turning the nut on the wheel, not getting anywhere.

I said, "Son, if you give me the plyers and step back, I'll have you back on the road in no time..."

He said, "I think I've almost got it Dad", and kept right on twisting without success. I just stood there and watched until he finally stopped and looked up and handed me the tool; stepping aside so I could fix it. I grabbed the wheel and pulled back, tightening the chain in the sprocket and gave the nut a few quick turns and flipped the bike back onto it's wheels and said, "There ya go, Son." 

He was ready to ride once again.

Isn't that how we do things with God? We twist and turn to no avail when we could have given Him control all along and been 'back on the road' in no time. If only we let Him do His thing from the beginning, everything will work out better and faster.

 Almost 40 years ago God answered my prayer and saved my life from a trip to hell. 

Yes, I was headed down a road that would surely have ended up in my total destruction. I was doing Cocaine, smoking weed everyday and contemplating various and sundry ways to self destruct. It was a pitiful life filled with defeats and depression and super low self esteem. No one was there for me; I thought.

However, the Lord was there. His hand was on my life even then; through all the depravity and self hatred. I hated myself so much that I transferred it all onto everyone around me to lighten the load. I did whatever I could to hurt and harm those around me; even to the extent of plotting ways to do things that would bring about as much pain and suffering possible. The depths that people like me, at that time, will go through cover a wide range of mental illnesses. We have no boundaries or stop gaps to keep us in check. That makes 'the ill' even more dangerous. To make things worse, modern medicine only 'covers up' the symptoms. I know now, how and why people turn to crime when they are in such a state. The desperation is huge. It pressurizes everything around you and squeezes the world you live in to the extent that anything and everything around you is a negative, bearing down on you with tremendous weight. My heart goes out to the hurting. I don't think others that exist outside of that lifestyle have any idea how dangerous it is to be in this condition and be in public. No wonder so many people are freaking out and shooting others for no other apparent reason than they are 'there'. 

The Bible speaks to this in more than one place. God has more than adequately provided for our healing and wellness but how do others find it without someone showing them the way? A cloud doesn't just open up and rain down healing. There has to be a messenger. There has to be an avenue that people can walk that brings them to 'safety' and peace.

But God has provided that in more ways than one. "His mercy is new every morning".

I prayed a prayer one day as I drove along the interstate on my home to an empty apartment.

"God, I just want someone to love me for 'me'; not for what I can do for them or what they can do for me. I just want a real love".

I ended the prayer with a little 'kicker' for good measure. "...and I want a son..."

Now I don't know about you but there are times when God has done extraordinary things in my life; some of which I knew about at the time, and other things that happened unbeknownst to me and then later became evident. I call them "God things".

The miraculous events all worked their way into a healing weave that began the changes. Less than 10 days after 'the prayer', a beautiful young woman came into my life and began the transformation. And she had a 4 year old boy with her.

She was so invested in her faith that I began to have hope for the first time since I was a young boy.

As you may suspect, I was suspicious at first. Everyone around me had betrayed my love and confidence, including family . I was more than 'gun shy'. But her love was real and simple and healing. I began to open up and I could feel the healing taking root, growing inside.

We moved from Dallas to Oklahoma City and took jobs at a local mission and started helping others. It was refreshing and gave us a spontaneity of sorts. The people responded to our actions and we formed a heavy bond of trust with the homeless and hurting of the city. We knew hundreds by their first names and knew their families and ages and issues. It was incredible. God took a hateful, dangerous man and began to transform him, a little at a time, into a caring, helpful person that didn't have 'an agenda' or 'an angle'.

Here we are almost 40 years later and the flame still burns brightly. Our love has grown into a security for me. I no longer want to harm others. I see the pain and trials they go through and instead, I want to help them in some way.

The beautiful young woman has been at my side through it all. Her deep abiding faith reaches and has reached hundreds. There is no alternative for real. She 'is' real. I love her with a love that far surpasses all of my weak efforts to show her. It's like her love for the Lord that she taught me. I love my God and want to serve Him like never before. She was His messenger. I prayed a simple prayer and God sent me a life saving solution. Happy Anniversary My beautiful bride. Here's to 40 more.

 Where do we go from here?

The days are finally ticking down to the 'moving days' and I'm beginning to get more and more excited about the move. Small things keep popping up that could delay us but our minds are set on seeing this through to completion with God's Hand overseeing everything so we keep moving forward no matter what. We have left everything in His care from the beginning, and we couldn't be more satisfied with how things have fallen into place so nicely. My normally impatient manner has been replaced with a more trusting and learning spirit, so things have developed with a grace in motion effect rather than my normally awkward way of doing things. I have watched the hinderances fall away one by one and I marvel at the way He does things. This has all worked out well, especially since we have stayed out of the way better than ever and learned about His strategies. I am a much more patient person than I was 3 months ago. Thank you Father.

Dianna has stressed more with Michael's business affairs than with our trials and tribulations so the outcome is totally God...as it should be.

How often do we 'take back' the controls and mess up a perfectly good plan by being impatient? Too often I suspect. However, our minds are human minds, not the mind of Christ, which we have been instructed to 'take on', so there is a major learning curve there if we're not careful. 

I look forward to learning now. As I have said before, I was always a poor 'student' and didn't take seriously for the most part, those things that lend themselves to higher learning. I am better at 'seeing' something done rather than reading about it. I actually don't know why I am so stubborn about reading. After so many failures you would think that I would welcome the chance to learn new things, but alas, I am not that pliable. Yet.

As I said in a previous post, I learned something important , AGAIN, and it has spurred me on to more 'watching' and observing than before. I have, sadly, been too quick to speak and less likely to listen as the processes unfold. I do believe I'm finally become a much better student. Again, thank you Father.

"Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus..." Much easier on the ego as well. Not nearly as much embarrassment, with half the pain. LOL

When you sign up as a soldier, you agree to following orders and the person giving those orders. That's definitely not my strong suit, but I can see where it's necessary to the success and completion of the mission. If we do things God's way we win. Easy, right? Not always, but still the best plan of action. No one likes to lose and more often than not, everyone wants to have a say in what's being done.

I am thinking about what God is going to do in the next few weeks and months. I have a lot of new material to work on as well as some 'old stuff', so I see a lot of fun on the horizon. The character voices will play a large part in what's going to transpire. God has given me 'inklings' of ideas, but I have to be setup to pursue them properly, so again, setting up will be key to how much we can accomplish and how quickly.

 By the way, if anyone out there is interested in doing 'character voices' and children's stories, please get in touch. I need help. We will produce everything including the music beds for the backgrounds, so 'come one, come all', lets 'create'!

Anyone interested in doing some radio production is welcome to join in as well. We are thinking big and praying for direction. Speaking of prayer. Please keep us in your prayers. We have a big task in front of us and prayer will be key to our success in the new adventure God is setting up for us. 

Thank you for reading and following our little blog. It means a lot. Blessings

The Time is now 

 It's time. We 'have to' pay closer attention to what's happening around us. Sadly, I'm seeing a pattern in the way things are being presented. When the left loses an argument or court case, they cry foul by saying, "American Democracy is being  destroyed". 

Two wrongs most certainly do not make a right. I don't care how you look at an issue. 

Our country is a Republic. That means that the majority rules, not the minority. We elect certain people to represent us and do the 'right thing' on our behalf but that isn't happening. The minority is holding power for themselves and twisting the truth into a pretzel of lies that leave a horrible taste in the mouths of regular Americans. We have been poisoned by the powerful to the extent that our very rights are being used against us to get things done for 'the whoever' that can pay the elected leaders to get what they want for a certain amount of money or leverage. How much longer do we have to wait on justice? The facts are so evident even the crooked can see they aren't 'covered' any more and yet they stand defiant in the face of the facts and still double down on their lies. 

The Bible speaks directly to what's going on.

 

READ IT FOR YOURSELF. Isaiah 5:20 

"Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!"

That's pretty plain to reasonable, honest people.

No more are we allowed the freedom to speak out about the perverted lawbreakers that have seized control of most public places without the threat of being censored or 'canceled' by the 'powers that be'.

I am appalled at the over abundance of evidence being discarded by the authorities with no charges being filed for undeniable infractions; some of which are outright felonies. What  is wrong with us? We are asleep ay the wheel and going off the road full speed ahead.

And I know the ranting doesn't really help either, so what am I contributing? Maybe nothing. Would that I, or someone like me, could spur everyone into action with speeches like these and begin the return to real; the return to normal. It doesn't look likely at this juncture.

I can however, rest in the knowledge that I know the end of the story. Evil cannot and will not win in the end, so we can breathe easier with that promise to come. But as has been quoted time and time again...that "the only thing necessary for evil to triumph, is for good men to do nothing."

Our actions speak much louder than our weak words. Let us rise to the occasion and return our great land to its former glory and hear and obey the soveriegn God Jehovah.

Old Dogs....

I learned something today. They say it's hard to teach an old dog new tricks, but this old dog isn't looking for tricks.

I hate to admit to being hardheaded but that's been a trait since I was a young boy. Over and over I repeat some of the same old mistakes almost religiously. You would think my nose would be permanently bruised from falling on my face so much. But God is good and rightly to the praised. I am so glad He hasn't given up on me yet. That would be more than a disaster.

Tomorrow is the 4th of July. I am seeing a lot of flags and bunting across the landscape. It's encouraging to see the faithfulness to the flag, but at the same time disheartening to see so many desecrate Old Glory.

They certainly do not understand the sacrifices that were made for our freedom or they wouldn't do the horrible things they do. It might do some of them some good to spend time in a country that has no freedom. They could see the things that go on in countries like Russia, Cuba, Venezuela, and the other dictatorships.

I know it's easy to get on a soapbox if you don't have to do anything pro-active. It's easy to complain if you have no solutions, no plan, no real answers. Speaking out is a right, but how we speak out is just as important as saying something.

On the other hand, there are those that go completely overboard with their actions. How are we supposed to reconcile all of the opinions and beliefs and prejudices without hurting others? We are too often heavy-handed and reckless with our actions. I see only one answer that solves every problem and that, my friends is what I learned today. I already knew it. I had already experienced it. It had already been proven over and over. And yet, somehow, I strayed away from that belief, that simple reality, and found myself "guilty again". No excuse; none.

I had taken back 'control' after telling God that I would leave everything to Him. A message by a well known speaker reminded me of my mistake and I immediately repented and turned my thinking around.

It's not easy to give God complete control of your life but it can be done. And successfully. The alternative is living a much less successful life with difficult decisions that ultimately lead to failure and depression. Some people kill themselves because they can't 'win' at anything; not even the smallest things. Thinking we can 'control' everything in our lives is a mistake. It's pride and 'pride cometh before a fall', and it's one of the mainstays the enemy uses to discourage people and take their joy and peace.

I felt much better right away and my peace returned. There's nothing like peace. No twisting and turning and worrying about what's happening or what's going to happen when God has the 'reins'. He always works things out in our favor; just not exactly how or when we think it is supposed to happen. Once we fully trust the Lord, the events in our daily lives settle down and come to completion in the best possible way.

I really encourage you to try it. It might take a little effort or maybe even a huge effort, but I know without a doubt that it works. You will never know unless you try.

 T minus 9 and counting

It's nine days away if everything falls into place. We should sign the closing papers on the house on the 6th and begin moving in. I know there are a lot of things that need to happen before it actually does happen, but I believe it's very possible. I am recovering from some sort of stomach issue. I spent almost all night on my knees in the bathroom; a very unpleasant experience to say the least. I can't believe how fast it came on. One moment I'm fine and the next moment I'm sick as a dog. Thank goodness Dianna didn't have the same issues.

The weather is really going to be something to overcome in the coming days. The near 100-degree days are early this year and timing couldn't be any worse for the move. We have two trailers, two storage units and a van filled to overflowing with our belongings. All the housewares, both offices and both bedrooms and clothes; the full Monty. I hate to ask our friends to help again but that's the only way we can do it. They worked their butts off getting everything out of the house and shop and in a rainstorm for part of it, asking for help again is tough. They are so giving, it makes one wonder how much they can stand before they say, "That's all I can do". No way to pay back these kinds of sacrifices. Love is a great equalizer.

I'm excited to find out what a new microphone can do. I bought it after seeing its advertised versatility and possible assets. I have never seen a mic with built in software and multiple connections. With the advent of podcasts, I can feature us doing some live streaming. Dianna has really come on strong with her devotionals. Her insight has grown to a much greater depth these last few years. I am amazed at the insight and wisdom God is imparting to her of late. The podcast may just be a favorable option; a good way to get the Gospel out to a larger audience.

One thing I definitely won't miss is the 'cell like' room we are in for the time being. I feel much like a caged animal, but I can look forward to the open space of the kitchen, living room, dining room space of the new house. 

I'm still feeling a bit spoiled after 'living' on that deck at the lake. I really miss the bird symphony each morning and the uninhibited prayer time and so many other things. Oh well. Our new deck will make up for that pretty soon.

I'll be excited to see what the new studio will look like. I am paring down to minimums and keeping all the bells and whistles to the barest minimums in order to make the best use of the limited space I have now.

Not having the woodshop is painful but I understand why it needed to go. I probably had invested somewhere around $12K to $15K, some of which I never got to use. I was pleased to see Todd get it. He is the best candidate for it and I'll still get to make some use of the tools for specialty projects.

Please let me know if you have any ideas as to discussion of topics. I'm open to open forum sharing, hit me up.

I will be ecstatic Su

 Lake time is ending 

Well, here we go again. I just dictated about a page and a half to my dictation program and tried to transfer it and it got erased. 

I'm still having a little trouble with Dragon. I am mostly blaming the headphones that we shall see if I can master this little program make use of it in the future. 

We will be heading back to Oklahoma City tomorrow. I have so enjoyed our time at the Lake with Dianna. She has had to work almost every day during this two-week period, with frustrating issues that I know have stressed her out but overall, it has been wonderful. 

I have really enjoyed my time with the Lord as well. He has given us five new songs since we arrived, and I have spent quite a bit of time in the Word. The Holy Spirit has been teaching me quite a bit. I have never been a very good student, but with God’s help, I know I can learn what I need to and be effective in the work he has for us to do. 

The progress on the new house has slowed down a little bit but I know that everything is going to be done in God’s time not mine. We have several ideas that we would like to do to make the house even better and more comfortable, but there again, things take time and we will have to be patient. 

Di wants to install an island in the kitchen and create more cabinet space for all of her pots and pans and dishes. We would also like to improve the deck and screen it in to keep out the bugs. That will greatly improve the quality of life as well as the value of the house. 

There are a lot of things going on at church. We are seeing a lot of people in trouble. We have been praying for them, knowing that God will step in and help. This world is growing worse by the day. So many troubled people that have no answers and no resources. It’s sad. Just like the Bible says,” the fields are white with harvest.” They seemingly have no way to go, nowhere to turn, no spiritual knowledge that can help them save themselves. It’s pretty clear that those of us that have faith in God are finding the answers to life’s problems, while those that do not, are not making it very far without failing. 

Some might say that’s an egotistical statement, but I beg to differ. Those of us that have been forgiven much understand how God’s love can cure and heal and yes, even say lives. we have come through death-defying circumstances and lived. I know that it wasn’t by anything that I did, it was most certainly the hand of God in my case; firsthand knowledge. I marvel at the mercy that God has shown me after all the things I’ve done. He is kind, He is loving, He is merciful, and He is always there for me. There is nothing better than that. 

Well, I have struggled with this dictation program long enough. I will close for now and post again after our return to the city. 

God bless you all.