|
February 27, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationRemembering Grandmommie
There are three
things that remain - faith, hope and love - and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 TLB
Tomorrow, February 28th, will be twelve years since my Grandmommie, Dovie "LOVE " Ware went to be with the
Lord.
I heart still aches when this time of the year rolls around. Although, I know she is with the Lord
and I wouldn't bring her back for anything, it still hurts.
She had one daughter, my mom, and three granddaughters,
which included me, the baby. She spoiled us so. She always told us she loved us, but her actions proved it.
She was such a precious gift from God. Oh, how I miss her. But, I know one day soon, I'll see her
again and I believe it will be like we were never apart.
Grandmommie lived up to her middle name "LOVE."
She loved Jesus with all her heart.
Friend, if your grandmother resides in heaven with mine, then I know
you understand what I'm feeling. But, if your grandmother is still here with you, please take the time
to go hug her and tell her how much you love her.
Dear Lord, Thank you for the loving gift of
grandmothers and please Lord, give mine a big hug from me. Amen.
In Loving Memory
of my Grandmommie,
Dovie "LOVE " Ware
Until Next time, Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
5:03 pm
February 26, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationGod's Word is Full of Inspiration
So shall my word be that goeth forth out of mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that
which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. Isaiah 55:11 KJV
God's word is like
a roadmap. It will guide you in the right direction. It brings encouragement, hope, healing, salvation,
peace and more to anyone who reads it.
Use it daily to inspire others. Read it daily to grow.
Trust in it always.
Friend, a Christian's cup is always running over. Today, I want
to share a cup with you.
Grab your Bible and enjoy this Cup of Inspiration from God's Word.
Dear Lord,
Thank you for your precious word that brings me closer to you. Amen.
Until
Next time, Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
February 25, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationIn Loving Memory
For
the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the
dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to
meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these
words. 1 Thessalonians 4:
16-18 KJV
I was unable to attend
the funeral service of a friend today that I've known for many years. Due to several days of sickness,
my body was just too physically weak to attend.
This dear lady, Joyce Campbell, was a family
member of my cousins, so she was like an extended family member to me.
When I first met Joyce back in the early 1980’s,
it was clear to see that she had the love of Jesus in her life. She was so sweet and kind, and always full
of joy.
A little less than two years ago, she moved from her home in Ft.
Worth, Texas to a nursing home in the small town, where I live. My grandpa is in the same nursing
home; so visiting with both of them was always a treat.
Joyce’s health began to deteriorate over
the past six months or so. The lady who use to smile and say hello no longer recognized me.
Last Thursday night, was the last time I saw
Joyce. I went into her room, touched her shoulder and began to pray for her. I asked
the Lord to hold her in his arms and when the time was right to carry her through the gates of Heaven. I
prayed for Him to give her His precious peace that passes all understanding. I told her how much her family loved her and
then said goodbye.
I received a call this past Saturday that said Joyce had gone to be with the
Lord.
I’ll miss seeing her smiling face when I go to visit my grandpa, but I know she’s smiling even
more, now that she’s at home with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
It’s always hard to lose a family member
or a dear friend, but thanks to God, we have the hope of seeing them again.
There is such great comfort in this passage
of scripture. The dead in Christ shall rise and then those who remain will be caught up together with the
Lord, and we will live with Him forever.
Friend, that’s one big reunion that I
plan on attending. I hope to see you all there!
Dear Lord, Thank you for the hope of being reunited with loved ones and for the
eternal home that is offered freely to us all.
Until Next time, Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
5:06 pm
February 24, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationHe
will Supply All Your Needs
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 KJV
I’m a writer and a poet. I’ve been
writing poetry since I was twelve years old. The Lord has often spoken to me through poems.
Many times
they’ve come from out of what seems to be nowhere and other times they come after prayer.
“Hang on Lord, let me get a pen and paper and then
give me the words.” I often tell Him, when I feel inspired.
I’d like to share one of these poems, but first, I need to give you
a little background on it.
I’d been praying and seeking the Lord about my future.
I was trying to make a decision on whether to close my gift shop and to follow the dream that God placed in my heart
as a child to write and speak. The Lord spoke these words to me on January 2, 2003 at 2:00 P.M.
The old devil was up to his usual tricks during this time,
trying to put doubts and fears in my mind. God, however, used this poem to remind me to put my complete trust in Him.
I thought this poem might bring comfort to some of you
as it did to me. No matter what situation you may find yourself in, trust God. He’ll
supply all of your needs, including finances, healing, comfort, salvation for loved ones and direction for your future.
Trust Me, It Will Come To Pass!
Can’t you trust me? Do you not know?
That I am your provider, and I love you so.
I’ve given you the sunlight; I’ve given you
the stars.
I’ve
given you beautiful rivers that run near and far.
I’ve given you desires and dreams
that can and will come true.
I’ve given you the ability and wisdom; the rest is
up to you!
I
have never left you; my hand will lead the way.
I am your Lord and Savior, So my child, do not dismay.
The road may be rugged, steep and oftentimes rough.
But you are
my child; my strength will make you tough;
to move mountains that may seem to be a solid wall.
Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, they will
fall.
The
road will be made
clear on your left and on your right.
I will be behind you. Follow me; I am the light.
Trust me for all things; there is no impossible task.
I am Jehovah-Jireh,
your provider, my child, just ask.
I will supply all you needs, just lean on me.
The desires and dreams I have placed in
your heart will come true,
Believe and ye shall see!
Dear
Lord, Thank you for always supplying my every need. I trust you Lord, today and all my tomorrows.Until Next time, Happy Trails and
may the good Lord take a liken to you.
February 23, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationGod’s
Word Brings Forth Light
Thy
word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105 KJV
Every Spring break, my niece and
her family come from West Texas to go camping with me. We make our reservations
in early January
at our favorite State Park.
My pop up camper is full of camping supplies.
My flashlights and extra batteries are some of the most important camping equipment that I carry.
We usually have our campfire going at night, and our campsite is lit up with decorative
party lights. The camper has lights too, so for the most part; our campsite is pretty lit up.
However,
when we step away from our campsite at night, the light is suddenly replaced with darkness. At times, we
walk around the paved road in the park or down trails filled with tall pines. I never step out into the
darkness without my flashlight.
I
like to think of it as being prepared for anything. My flashlight is always shining down in front of our
path. Without that light, we could lose our way or walk upon dangers of all kinds, including snakes. The darkness can be scary at times. Having that flashlight gives me
a sense of security and it helps me stay on the right path. God’s word could be compared to my flashlight.
It truly lights the pathway for Christians. Reading and learning God’s word will help instruct
us to go in the right direction. His word assures us by lighting our paths.
I always know it’s time to change my flashlight batteries when my camping pathway gets a little dim.
Friend, is the pathway you’re walking down
with God getting a little dim? If so, you may need to re-charge your light, by spending more time
in His word. Before long that light will be shining bright, showing you the way, one step at a time.
Dear Lord, Thank you for your word that gives me direction and the light that leads my footsteps.
Until Next time, Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
February 20, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationLet’s
Go Fishing!
“Come, follow me.” Jesus said, “and I will make you
fishers of men.” MATTHEW 4:19
NIV
Do you remember as a child going fishing for the first time? Your dad or grandpa probably
taught you how to bait your hook, throw your line out, jerk the rod and then reel in the catch of the day.
The steps to becoming a fisherman weren’t easily learned in one short demonstration. Baiting
the hook with that squiggly worm was a chore in itself. The other fishing techniques, however, were soon
mastered with practice and perseverance. As they say in fishing terms, you were “hooked on fishing” after that
first big catch.
After growing
up, you probably told your own child, “Hey, let’s go fishing, I’ll teach you how.”
Jesus saw Peter and Andrew, who were fishers by trade, casting out their nets. He wanted them to become
fishers of men. They would learn how just by following Him, the greatest fisherman of all.
As a follower of Christ, you too should be “hooked on fishing.” Everyday, you’re
given the opportunity to be a fisher of men. Sharing the love of Christ and the free gift of salvation
to others will be the best fishing experience you’ll ever have.
Dear Lord, help me to be “hooked on being a fisher of men” for your kingdom.
Until Next time, Happy Trails and may the good Lord take
a liken to you.
February 19, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationThe Beauty of God’s Creation
And
God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. GENESIS 1:31 KJV
God’s
vast creation is recorded in the first chapter of Genesis.
This scripture passage shows the specifics during the creation process.
First,
He made the heaven and the earth. He then, added light, water, dry land, grass, seed, fruit trees, fish
in the sea, and fowls of the air. Next, He made the beast of the earth, the cattle, and every creeping
thing. He ended creation by making man in his own image.
If you love the great outdoors, you’ll find yourself in awe of God’s
beautiful creation on many occasions.
Maybe, you’re a camper, and you like sitting around a campfire on a cool
evening staring at the twinkling stars and the glow of the moon.
Fishing
off the bank of a lake or river, surrounded by the beauty of tall, whispering pine trees with majestic mountains in the distance
can leave you breathless.
The beauty of God’s creation is everywhere.
The next time you see a river, lake, forest,
mountains or even the roses in your own back yard, remember to give thanks to a loving God who placed all this beauty here
for you to enjoy.
Dear God, thank you for making this beautiful world for us to enjoy.
Until Next time, Happy Trails and
may the good Lord take a liken to you.
3:49 pm
February 18, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationThink
on Good Things
For the rest, brethren,
whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever
is lovely and loveable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything
worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them]. Philippians
4:8 AMP “The sky is falling,
the sky is falling,” screamed Chicken Little. Have you ever been around folks that are
negative like Chicken Little? No matter what good is going on in the world, they see only the bad.
If others see a beautiful sunshine, they see themselves with third degree burns from the sun.
If others see lovely skies of blue with fluffy white clouds, they see rain. If others are thankful
it’s raining, so the crops will grow, they only see the possibility of a flood. We’ve all been
around these types of people at one time or another. If you hang around them very long, their constant
negativity can have an effect on your way of thinking. Let’s face it; sometimes our thinking
is really stinking!
As
Christians, we need to examine our thinking. We need to ask ourselves this question? What would Jesus think?
The answer is found in Philippians 4:8.Our minds are to be fixed only on the things of God.
We need to emphasize the positive and lose the negative. The best way to accomplish this
is to pray and read God’s word every day. Before long, your thoughts will be on things that are true,
honest, just, pure and lovely.
Friend, say goodbye to that
stinking thinking and hello to God's way of thinking!
Dear Lord, Help me to think only on things from above. Amen.
Until
Next time, Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
February 17, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationKeep On Keeping
On
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in
weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will
rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
NKJV
“Keep on Keeping On.” Aunt LaVeta always says.
This statement is not just a bunch of words for her, but
something she has had to do, in her walk with God.
She lost her husband when he was only 49
years old to a heart attack. He was a great man of God and held a position of leadership within their church
affiliation. This time of loss was difficult. Aunt LaVeta could have thrown her hands up in the air and
quit, but instead, she chose to keep on keeping on.
She pastored a church for a while and then felt a calling from God to be a Missionary
in Trinidad. She could have chosen to stay home and be near her children and grandchildren, but instead,
she chose to keep on keeping on for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Several years ago, while back in the states at a conference, she met a widowed
man who held a position of leadership within their church affiliation. Before long, love blossomed, and
she now lives back in the states. She co-pastors a church with her husband, Ron.
She
could have chosen to stay in Trinidad, but she knew the Lord was leading her down this new path. Once again, she
chose to keep on keeping on, for her Lord.
I’ve often wondered just how she’s survived so many changes and directions in her
life. How does she keep on keeping on?
The answer is found in God’s word in this passage of scripture.
His grace has and always will be sufficient for her. His mercy has always been more than enough to
see her through the troubles and changes in her life.
When she was weak, He was strong. God has been her strength and fortress throughout her entire
life.
Friend, are you facing trials and troubles in your life that seem impossible, unbearable and hopeless?
Don’t give up! God’s grace is more than enough to see you through.
Remember, His grace will always be sufficient. In your time
of weakness, He’ll provide the necessary strength you need to help you KEEP ON KEEPING ON!
Dear Lord, Thank you for my Aunt LaVeta and the inspiration
she has been to so many lives. Thank you most of all for giving me more than enough grace to help me to Keep on Keeping On!
Amen.
Until Next time, Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
February 16, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationLoving Others
Through Actions and Deeds
Little children, let us not love [merely] in theory or in speech but in deed and in truth (in practice and in sincerity).
1 John 3: 18 AMP I’ll never forget that
Christmas back in 1979. I was 18 years old and a senior in high school. One of my closest
friends lived about 50 miles away, in a small town just outside of Lubbock, Texas. I had talked to
her several times on the phone, and could tell she was down and discouraged. Her parents had recently divorced.
She lived with her mother, younger sister and brother in a small house. Times were hard and the lack of money meant
a lean Christmas was in store for them. My heart ached from hearing the pain in my friend’s voice. I
knew I had to do something, starting with prayer. It was evident that this family needed a lot of
love at this time, but I felt they also needed a good Christmas. After discussing this with another friend, we decided to pull our small
supply of money together and to go shopping for this family. We loaded the car and then drove the 50 miles to our friend’s
house early one Saturday morning. We were on a mission, and our goal was to deliver joy, happiness and
love to this family.
We
felt like Santa’s helpers as we walked in our friend’s house with food and presents. However,
I knew deep down in my heart that we were working for God, not Santa Clause.
I left there that day with such joy, but most of all, with a greater
knowledge on how to love. It was a wonderful
blessing to be able to help this family in their time of need.
As Christians, it's our responsiblity
to not only tell others that we love them, but to also show them by actions and deeds.
Friend, always tell others you love them, but most importantly show them the love
of Christ by helping meet their needs. You’ll be blessed!
…And
remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, “It is more blessed
to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35 NKJV
Dear
Lord, Use me to show your love to others through actions and deeds. Amen.
Until Next time, Happy Trails and may the good Lord take
a liken to you.
February 13, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationA Week of Celebrating Love
Happy Early Valentine's Day!
The Greatest of These is Love
And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love. I Corinthians 13:13 NKJV
This week has been a celebration of love.
God’s word tells us of many types of love. The love between parents and their children,
love between sisters, brothers, friends and even love for our enemies.
The Bible also, teaches us about faith, hope, and love, but it specifically
states that the greatest of these is love.
I believe there is no greater love than God’s
love. He proved that when He sent His only son, Jesus, to die on the cross for the sins of all mankind.
Friend, God gave you and me the best Valentine’s present ever, over 2000 years ago.
We are so blessed!
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!
For God so loVed the world,
That He GAve
His onLy
BegottEn
SoN
That whosoever
Believeth In
Him
Should Not perish,
But have Everlasting life.
John 3:16 KJV
Dear Lord, Today, I just want to tell you how much I love you. Amen.
Until Next time, Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
February 12, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationA Week of Celebrating
Love
(Happy Valentine's Week)
Love Your Enemies
But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for
those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes
your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you,
do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. Luke 6:27-31 NIV
“Are you kidding, Lord, you want me to love my enemies? You
mean actually love those who have wronged me? Lord, do you not remember what so and so did and said about
me?”
I’m thinking just maybe that I’m not the only one who has ever
asked the Lord questions like these.
The truth is we’ve all been hurt at one time or another by someone we either know
or by a stranger. Having enemies can be a painful experience, to say the least. Loving
them is not easy and to be completely honest with you, it sometimes seems like an impossible task.
Love is clearly defined in God’s word.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does
not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily
angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It
always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV
This passage of scripture tells us that love keeps no records of wrong.
I truly believe that loving our enemies can
only be achieved when we forgive them. The greatest example of forgiveness is found in the words of Jesus
himself, as he hung on the cross.
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what
they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
Luke 23:34 KJV
Friend, if Jesus can love those who crucified Him,
I know it’s possible for you and me to love our enemies who have wronged us. Remembering all
the times the Lord has forgiven each of us for our wrongs, makes forgiving our enemies a must.
Dear Lord, Help me to love my enemies and to always have
a heart that forgives. Amen.
Until Next
time,
Happy Trails
and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
February 11, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspisationA Week of Celebrating Love
(Happy Valentine's Week)
Sisterly Love
A
friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17 KJV
I’ve been blessed throughout my life with wonderful friends.
There are a few, however that I consider being more like sisters.
My real sisters, and I are close in age. We grew up as normal
sisters, who had our share of sisterly spats. It was okay if we argued amongst ourselves. However, an unkind
word said about my sisters by someone else could bring out the fighter in me.
As adults, my sisters and I are still close and yes, we still have our silly sisterly spats, but
we’re also friends. I can always depend on my sisters, whether blood sisters
or my dear sister friends. They are always there through thick or thin.
Last year, my best friend or sister, Cherilyn had a tumor,
the size of a volleyball, removed from her lower abdomen. She had nursed me through two previous surgeries
and I felt it was my turn to do the same for her.
Cherilyn is a Dental Assistant, so being a caregiver comes easy
for her. However, I’m the type of person that can get sick, just from watching someone else get sick.
I guess some people just have weak stomachs.
I held Cherilyn’s hand as the nurses prepared her for surgery.
Before they wheeled her out of the room, I prayed for God to be with her and the surgeon. But, most
of all, I prayed for God to give her peace.
I sat in the waiting room for hours, praying on her behalf. After
the surgery was over, I went to her room. She lay in the bed, groggy from the anesthesia and really pale looking.
I could have easily got queasy, but instead I held her hand and prayed some more.
All through the night and throughout the next several weeks, I
tried to be there for her and to help in anyway that I could. I made her meals, ran errands, gave her medicine
and many times, held her hand and prayed for her pain to subside.
Helping her during her recuperation gave me just a glimpse of what she did for me during
my surgeries.
A true friend will always be there during the good times as well as the difficult. They
are gifts from the Lord and are rare like jewels.
As Christians, we should always be friendly and loving to others. Sharing the
love of Christ not only pleases our Lord and Savior, but it brings blessings galore into our lives.
Call your sisters or friends today and tell them how much you love
and appreciate them.
Dear Lord, Thank you for my sisters and dear friends. Help me to always be a loving friend to others.
Amen.
Until Next time,
Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a
liken to you.
February 10, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationA Week of Celebrating
Love
(Happy Valentine's Week)
A Parent’s Love
He who spares the rod [of discipline] hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines
diligently and punishes him early. Proverbs 13:24 AMP
When I was a little girl, I learned quickly to behave
in church. I was told in no uncertain terms that I had to be quite. I knew mom and dad
wouldn’t tolerate any irreverence in the house of the Lord. If I acted up, I knew I’d surely
reap the consequences.
Those consequences came in the form of small branches that hung from a tree outside
in the churchyard. My sisters and I disliked those twigs immensely. One spanking on
the backside with one of those switches was enough to last a lifetime.
I guess I was young and naive. I thought small branches
and switches were used for firewood to burn in a campfire. But, let me tell you friend, those small skinny
twigs were as bad as any belt. Oh, how they could burn and sting.
All throughout my childhood, my parents gave me instructions
or rules that they expected me to obey. If I failed to do so, I promise you, I only failed to do it once.
“This
is going to hurt me, more than it hurts you.” They’d always say, before I got a spanking.
“Yea, right!” I thought quietly
to myself.
I never
quite understood how they came to that conclusion. That is, until I was grown.
Mom and dad always
assured me that they disciplined me only because they loved me. Now, that I’m grown, I’m thinking
maybe they should have loved my sisters a little more than me.
However, I’m thankful that
they loved us all, enough to discipline us. Their discipline taught me right from wrong and good from bad.
As a Christian, I also have rules and instructions that God has given me throughout His word.
If I obey them, I’m promised joy, peace and most of all, eternal life. If I disobey them,
there are always consequences to reap.
Friend, God loves you and me. Remember, His instructions and discipline are to help us live a victorious
life and to prepare us for an eternal home in Heaven.
Dear Lord, Thank you for loving me enough to discipline
me, and thanks for giving me loving parents that did the same. Amen.
Until Next time,
Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
February 9, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationCelebrating Love
(Happy Valentine's
Week)
Jesus Loves Me, This I Know!
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should
not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 KJV
One of the very first songs I learned in Sunday school,
as a child was “Jesus Loves Me.” Likewise, one of the first scriptures I ever learned was
John 3:16.
I could share this song and scripture with others,
at a very early age, and I often did.
“Jesus Loves Me.”
I’d say with a big smile on my face.
Children always seem
to have an easier time believing God and His word. If God’s word said it, I knew it was so.
I also knew that God loved me so much that He sent His son Jesus to die on a cross for my sins, so I could someday
live forever in Heaven with Him.
Now that I’m grown, I wonder
why I find it so difficult at times to accept God’s love. My mind is constantly bombarded with thoughts
and questions like these: How could he love me? I’ve made so many mistakes.
I’m so unworthy of God’s forgiveness and love.
These doubts and thoughts
however, quickly disappear when I begin to quote John 3:16. It also helps when I sing one of my most favorite
hymns of all times, “Jesus Loves Me,” written by Anna Bartlett Warner in 1860.
Friend, don’t
ever let negative doubts and thoughts convince you that God doesn’t love you. That’s just not
true. He loves you so much.
Let John 3:16 and Anna
Warner’s song always encourage and reassure you of this true fact, JESUS LOVES YOU!
Want to sing along?
Jesus Loves Me
Jesus loves me! This I know,
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones
to Him belong;
They are weak, but He is strong.
Refrain
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me! This
I know,
As He loved so long ago,
Taking children on His knee,
Saying, “Let them come to me.”
Refrain
Jesus loves me still today,
Walking with me on my way,
Wanting
as a friend to give
Light and love to all who live.
Refrain
Jesus loves me! He who
died
Heaven’s gate to open wide;
He will wash away my sin,
Let His little child come in.
Refrain
Jesus loves me! He will
stay
Close beside me all the way;
Thou hast bled and died for me,
I will henceforth live for Thee.
Refrain
This stanza from
the original is commonly omitted in hymnals:
Jesus loves me! Loves
me still,
Though I’m very weak and ill,
That I might from sin be free
Bled and died upon the tree.
Dear Lord, Thank you Jesus for giving your life for me. I know you love me, and that's
a fact I can depend on. Amen.
Until Next time,
Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
February 6, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationGive Thanks Always!
Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful
and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].
1 Thessalonians 5:18 AMP
I’ve been a fan of Elvis Presley, since I was knee high to a grasshopper.
I’ve used his famous concert-ending phrase; “Thank you, thank you very much,”
on many occasions.
At times, I say it jokingly with my lip curled and my hand raised, trying to act like Elvis.
Most of the time, however, I repeat the phrase with a heart full of sincerity.
Does giving thanks always come easy?
No, of course not. Life’s circumstances don’t always come easy either. The
truth is, complaining about our situation sometimes comes more natural than saying thanks for it’s very existence.
For instance, in the past six weeks, my hot
water heater had to be replaced, the dog got sick and had to go to the vet, and my Jeep needed repairs. All
were costly, to say the least.
I could’ve easily become agitated about the time and money that went towards tending to these
matters. However, being thankful to God for providing a dad and brother-in-law who replaced the hot water
heater heater, fixed the jeep and a veterinarian who helped my dog seemed like a better alternative.
I find that giving thanks comes easier only
by giving thanks more often. Again, that’s not always easy to do.
I know everyday will bring new challenges;
some full of obstacles and situations that may be difficult and even costly, like replacing a hot water heater.
I’ve learned, however, that no matter what circumstances I may face in life, I’ll never have to face them
alone. God’s word says that He’ll never leave or forsake me. That fact alone
is enough reason to give thanks always.
Friend, make giving thanks part of your daily routine. Remember, it
comes easier, when you do it more. Go ahead and try, it! Thank you Lord, [for
all things] Thank you very much! Dear Lord, Help me to always choose a grateful heart of
thanksgiving, in every situation. Amen.
Until
Next time,
Happy
Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you.
10:04 pm
February 5, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationLions and Tigers and Bears, (and TARANTULAS) Oh
My!
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity
(of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and
well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7 AMP
Most everyone remembers the famous line, “lions and tigers and bears, oh my,” from the movie, “The
Wizard of Oz”.
The cowardly lion was scared of anything and
everything that was lurking in the forest, including his own shadow.
Fear can be a devastating emotion causing anxiety, panic and paralysis.
I attended church
camp in Roaring Springs, Texas, almost every summer, while growing up. The youth in our church traveled
approximately sixty miles to the middle of what appeared to be nowhere, for a fun filled week.
I looked forward to camp every
summer. It was a great time to fellowship with other young people, and it always brought me into a closer
relationship with God.
Every year, however, I experienced a deep fear about going to camp. My fear was real, and it almost stopped
me from going every summer. I knew, like the cowardly lion that something would be waiting and lurking
around at camp.
TARANTULAS!
Those huge, black, hairy spiders crawled
all over the place, including our dorms where we slept. I thought I was smart to always grab a top bunk,
until I realized those awful critters could climb up the walls.
The very thought of seeing a tarantula, or anything that even
closely resembled it would make my heart palpitate and my palms sweat.
There was only one thing that I could do and that was pray for
God to keep those devilish creatures faraway from me.
Although, I was still scared, I went, every
summer. I chose to face that fear head-on with God’s help.
Christians aren’t exempt from challenges
and trials that can cause fear. Fear can come in many forms including fear of sickness, death or even fear of what the future
may hold. Fear, however, can never defeat a Christian, as long as it’s faced head-on with Godly courage.
God’s word tells us time
and time again to “fear not.” Friend, we can overcome fear, by trusting in the one, who
is bigger than all of our fears.
Dear Lord, Help me
to always choose the spirit of power and of love and of a sound mind over the spirit of fear, and one more thing Lord, please
don’t let me dream about tarantulas tonight. Amen.
Until Next time,
Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you!
9:33 am
February 4, 2009
A Cup of Cowgirl InspirationThrowing Stones
However, when they persisted with their
question, He raised Himself up and said, Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her. John 8:7 AMP
My cousins,
Keith Don and Tommy came over to play with my sisters and me on that summer day in 1968. Later that afternoon,
my mom was supposed to take me to the school to pick up my first grade report card.
I was two years older than Keith. We always had such a good time
together and that day was no exception. After running and chasing each other for a while, we decided to
play a game of baseball.
Keith was up to bat and I was pitching, or so I thought.
After arguing back and forth over who was going to pitch, I
took off running with the ball. Keith was on my heels. I ran as hard and fast as I could
across the road to an empty pasture. I quickly made a u-turn and headed back. The screaming
and the noise from the footsteps running behind me suddenly faded away.
“Finally, I lost him.” I said,
silently to myself.
As I turned
around to locate Keith, I felt a sharp stinging pain near my right eye. I was glad that he'd quit chasing me. My reaction to
his rock throwing, however, now had me screaming at the top of my lungs.
The unexpected trip to the emergency room soon put a kink in my plans to go get
my report card.
After the bleeding stopped, the doctor promised me an ice cream cone if I’d let him stitch
my eye. It seemed like a good trade off at the time. The stitches started at the bottom corner of my right eye and were about
a quarter of an inch long.
I admit it,
I cried. I was scared. However, my tears didn’t compare to those that fell
from Keith's eyes that day.
As Keith grew up, he experienced a lot of pain and sorrow. His parents divorced and as a teenager,
he got mixed up with drugs. He had a lifetime full of struggles and heartaches.
I always
tried to let Keith know how much I loved him. There was nothing that he could do that would change that.
I never walked in his shoes, so I couldn’t judge him. I knew I was far from being perfect.
Keith didn’t need me harping at him; he needed my prayers and unconditional love that only comes from God.
The scar on my right eye
was always a part of Keith’s and my conversation over the years. The pain that rock caused us when
we were kids was later replaced with lots of laughter.
Today, when I look in the mirror and see that scar, I think of
Keith Don. It still makes me laugh and cry. This time, however, it’s from the
joy I feel knowing that he made things right with the Lord before he passed away in 2003.
Friend, casting or throwing stones at others only causes them more
pain. Hurting people need Jesus and His unconditional love. Stop casting stones and
start sharing the love of Jesus today!
Dear Lord, Forgive me for the times that I’ve
cast stones at others. Help me to always share
your unconditional love. Amen.
Until
Next time,
Happy
Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you!
9:45 am
February 3, 2009
A Daily Cup of Cowgirl InspirationPutting God First
But seek (aim
at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these
things taken together will be given you besides. Matthew 6:33 AMP
Have you ever wanted something so bad that you could almost
taste it? Maybe, you’ve had the new car fever. Just looking at those new vehicles
gets your adrenaline pumping. Once you smell the interior of a new car, it seems you just can’t sleep
until your name is on that dotted line giving you ownership.
Seeking after something simply means to
pursue it. Most people, at one time or another, have pursued new jobs, relationships, and material things
like that new car. However, being in a constant pursuit of things can eventually make us lose sight of
what we should be pursuing most.
As
Christians, your main pursuit in life should be your relationship with Jesus. He should be your first
and foremost priority. Seeking His will and His ways in all things should be your utmost goal.
Jesus wants to be in your thoughts every morning as well as in your last thoughts at night. He
desires for you to seek His presence each and everyday.
Friend, always
put Jesus first! Seek Him in all you do. Making Him your main thing will cause everything
else in your life to fall into place.
Dear
Lord, Help me to always put you first and to seek your will in all things. Amen.
Until
Next time,
Happy Trails and may the good Lord take a liken to you!
12:10 pm
February 2, 2009
A Daily Cup of Cowgirl InspirationCast Your Cares on Jesus!
Casting all your care upon him; for he
careth for you. 1 Peter 5:7 KJV
Most folks have rode down some hard trails
at one time or another.
One of my hardest trails came in 1981. My dad's job in the oilfield brought about
a transfer to the East Texas area. Although, I'd been out of school for a year, I still lived at home with my
parents.
The thought of leaving the only town and people I'd ever known brought about a lot of anxiety
and fear. My two older sisters, their families, my grandparents and friends would all remain behind. My parents
and I would make that lonely ride clear across the great state of Texas to start a new life, alone.
I was scared
half out of my wits to make this move, but even more frightened to let my parents leave without me. My sisters often
called me a big baby. I guess my feelings about this move only helped to prove their point.
It was the unknown more than anything that bothered me. Although, I didn't know what the future held, I knew
who held my future.
"Okay, Lord, it's time we talk." I cried out.
He reminded
me, that I didn't have to face this new trail alone, nor did I have to carry all my anxieties, worries and concerns.
The answer to my dilemma was found in God's word.
I begin casting my every care upon the Lord.
I knew in my heart that His loving arms were more than big enough to carry my load. I also realized that my parents
and I wouldn't be making that long trail alone. Jesus would be by our side, every step of the way.
Friend, maybe you're facing an unknown trail that has you worried or anxious. Let me encourage you today, to
cast all your cares on Jesus. He knows every twist and turn that you'll face on that trail. I speak from
experience. His loving arms are more than big enough to carry your load.
Dear Lord, Thank you for
allowing me to cast my every care upon you. Amen.
Until Next time,
Happy Trails and may the
good Lord take a liken to you!
|
