"For Such a Time as This" Part II

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong, vigorous and very courageous; be not afraid, neither be dismayed; for the LORD you GOD is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9 Amplified

Dear Friends,

A couple of weeks ago, I shared with you a letter from my heart about my opinion concerning Sarah Palin as our Vice Presidential nominee. Ya'll's response to that letter was much and so encouraging-thank you. Evidently I'm not the only one who was thinking along those lines. I didn't plan to write a second part to "For Such a Time as This," but this morning, as I was spending time in the WORD, GOD started bringing some thoughts together along the same line. Like last time, I am sharing with you from my heart.

Earlier this week as I was laying in bed reading a biography about Sarah Palin, I came to a chapter entitled "For Such a Time as This." If you haven't read her biography yet, entitled Sarah: How a Hockey Mom Turned Alaska's Political Establishment Upside Down," I sure would encourage you to get one-we got ours at "Books-A-Million." It is very inspiring, and you can certainly see the hand of GOD throughout her life in it's pages.
As I read along last night, I was so blessed reading what GOD did to help her win the "grassroots" campaign for governor in the face of what seemed to be insurmountable odds at times. Isn't that where GOD loves to show HIMself strong in our insurmountable odds? In the book, it shares "the campaign was so frugal that volunteers built "Palin for Governor" signs using dismantled wooden crates used for shipping snowmobiles." Kris Kerry, who became Sarah's campaign manager shared," While other candidates were sending out glossy flyers, we sent out stuff that I made at home on my computer and printer." GOD raised up volunteers from all walks of life-hunting guides, teachers, dog mushers, restaurant workers, retirees to help tirelessly with the campaign. It goes on to say that "many had never been involved in a campaign and others were so weary of and cynical about politics that they'd dropped out -until they met Sarah. Most relished taking on a deeply entrenched good-old-boy network. Sarah was not wealthy. Her husband was a working man. Nor was she politically connected. Her father was a teacher, her mother a school secretary." To me her story is a picture of GOD's sovereignty and power, and HIS plans being accomplished in man's weakness, using the "foolish things of the world, to shame the wise."

There is another battle against a network that is being fought right here under our very noses for those of us who live in North Alabama. The man who is running for Congress is Wayne Parker and he is an insurance salesman. The Parker's aren't wealthy either. He is running against a formidable opponent who is described as a "powerful individual," who uses "intimidation to those who cross him"-Dale Jackson, www.wvnn.com . His opponent has many connections in the medical community, he is a licensed physician though he hasn't practiced in many years, is a State Senator, and has many business ties...and there is certainly is a powerful network there. I don't know if you call it a "good-old -boy" network that his opponent is tied to, it seems to me to be downright evil from what I'm learning. I believe that GOD has raised Wayne to represent our area "for such a time as this" and come against the corruption that his opponent was involved in as an oncologist (cancer doctor) back in the 1980's. Earlier this week documents of this man and his partners were released to the media that reveal some appalling discoveries. The documents shared the findings conducted by two highly respected physicians who wrote a book on the protocol for administering radiation in cancer treatment. As a result of this peer review this the hospital where he saw patients sought to revoke his medical licenses. One of the local radio shows is revealing these atrocities this man did as he treated untold numbers of patients in our area. Some of the findings these doctors have shared said that "he prolonged the treatment of these patients" to ensure that they would have to keep making return visits. In simple laymen terms, he over radiated his patients to get more money. I don't know if you've thought about what too much radiation does to folks but it burns them...really badly. The document states that "his treatment was designed to insure reoccurrence." These patients were treated so they would have to keep coming back and the physician would keep the money rolling in.



Now some of you may be thinking, this is just mud slinging- what has this got to do with a Congressional Race for Congress? It has everything to do with integrity, honesty, and justice. I believe this is bigger than a congressional race, just as Sarah Palin's fight against corruption was bigger than cleaning house in the Republican party in Alaska. In our time of GOD's grace and mercy, sometimes we forget about HIS justice...that there will be a day of judgment for all that we have done in the darkness-"We must all appear before the judgment seat of CHRIST, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil, 2 Cor. 5:10- Romans 2:16 says that "GOD judges the secrets of men by CHRIST JESUS." I Corinthians 4:5 shares,"Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the LORD comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart." "And they say, "How can GOD know: Is there knowledge in the Most High?"-Psalm 73:11."These things you have done, and I have been silent; you thought that I was one like yourself. But now I rebuke you and lay the charge before you,"Psalm 50:21. Luke 12: 2 shares," Nothing is covered up that will that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known."
These verses remind me and convict me, that things I think I may be getting away with are not hidden from GOD's sight, though it may seem so for a season that we get away with our sin. There will be a day of judgment. Thankfully, for all who are in CHRIST JESUS and have been cleansed by the HIS blood, our sins are forgiven. But that doesn't mean that my sin will not find me out..."behold, ye have sinned against the Lord: and be sure your sin will find you out." Numbers 32:23.



GALATIANS 6:7
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for
whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.

JOB 34:21-22
For His eyes are on the ways of man, and He sees all his steps.

There is no darkness nor shadow of death where the workers of
iniquity may hide themselves.

ECCLESIASTES 12:14
For God will bring every work into judgment, including
every secret thing, whether good or evil.

PROVERBS 28:13
He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever
confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.



It can be very scary and intimidating to go up against a powerful foe, even when GOD is using you to carry out HIS plan... just ask Elijah, Moses, and David. GOD commands us in HIS word over and over, "Be strong and courageous." In Isaiah 41:9-13 we read, "You are My servant, I have chosen you and have not cast you away. Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed for I am your GOD. Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Behold, all those who were incensed against you shall be ashamed and disgraced; They shall be as nothing, And those who strive with you shall perish. You shall seek them and not find them-Those who contended with you. Those who war against you. Shall be as nothing As a nonexistent thing. For I, the LORD your GOD will hold your right hand, Saying to you, "Fear not, I will help you."

This week in my personal Bible study I have been reading a passage over and over in Isaiah 37 of GOD's judgment on a very powerful, huge, and extremely evil Assyrian army. If you've ever studied the Assyrians you know that they tortured and mutilated those they took in captivity, cutting their fingers and toes off, and doing untold evil. Some of the Assyrians came to taunt the Israelites and intimidated them by telling how they had defeated all these other nations who had cried out to their gods, and they were going to destroy the Israelites. And it was true,GOD had used the Assyrians to bring judgment on these other nations who worshipped false gods...that's what made it so intimidating and scary. The Israelites had seen and heard of the destruction the Assyrian army had done...but the Assyrians had not come against the living GOD, and they were messing with...not Texas:), but with the "apple of HIS eye," ...the Israelites. Through Isaiah the prophet, GOD spoke to King Hezekiah's (King of Israel) servants and he told them: "Thus says the LORD: "Do not be afraid of the words which you have heard, with which the servants of the king of Assyria have blasphemed ME. Surely I will send a spirit upon him, and he shall hear a rumor and return to his own land; and I will cause him to fall by the sword in his own land." Isaiah 37:6-7....and that's what GOD did...in Chapter 37:36 it says, "Then the angel of the LORD went out, and killed in the camp of the Assyrians one hundred and eighty-five thousand; and when people arose early in the morning, there were corpses-all dead." ...GOD did it then, and the same GOD that brought judgment to the Assyrians and protected the "apple of HIS eye," the Israelites, will deliver and protect HIS children today..."JESUS CHRIST is the same yesterday today and forever," Hebrews 13.8.

I believe that GOD has raised up the Sarah Palin's and the Wayne Parker's "for such a time as this," that HIS power might be shown through their lives, and to bring about justice where corruption has been sown. And HE has not just raised them up, HE has raised you and me up to fight in this battle on earth for the soul's of men and women, for the weak, and those unable to defend themselves, like children being killed in their mother's wombs. Yes, there may be long years that evil is covered up and we think that nothing is going to happen. But GOD's word is true and one way or another HE is going to "expose the evil deeds that were done in the darkness." Just like GOD fought for HIS children then and delivered them from an opponent stronger than them, HE continues to do that today. HE delights in showing HIMself strong in our weakness. I believe GOD is using these servants of HIS to bring about justice and to expose evil. GOD seems to be using this campaign to do that very thing... to bring about justice. I want to ask you my brothers and sisters to please pray for the Parker family as they "Lift Up the Cross," where CHRIST has called them to serve. Please pray that the Truth would be revealed in all that is going on, that GOD would give courage to other physicians, former patients and others who know about these atrocities to come forward and speak out about what they know.

I
Where are the Caleb's and the Joshua's and the Queen Ester's in our day...men and women who are bold enough to speak against evil, and to stand in the gap for those who are to weak too stand up for themselves? I believe with all my heart that Wayne Parker and Sarah Palin are among those who are strong and courageous in CHRIST, and the kind of leaders who stand up for the weak, and lead by serving, by laying down their own lives, "willing to endure the scars," not for dishonest gain or to build their egos, but because GOD has raised them up "for such a time as this," to carry out HIS plans and purposes.

The Crist family (www.cristfamilymusic.com), whom GOD has blessed with beautiful harmony and a love for HIS people, sings a beautiful song called "Lift Up the Cross." As I listened to this powerful song over and over this week, I am reminded that GOD calls us to "Lift Up the Cross" in whatever walk of life HE has called us- whether it be in the midst of a fierce battle for Congress, a homemaker, student, vice -presidential candidate, a physician, a pastor, plumber, a restaurant worker- wherever HE leads our paths, we are called to "Lift Up the Cross." Only by abiding in CHRIST can we do that when the battle rages and our hearts are tempted to give way to fear. HE lifted up the cross for you and me until HE died, and then was resurrected 3 days later. May we ask the LORD to give us the wisdom and courage to stand in the place HE has asked you and me to "Lift Up the Cross," for HIM.

With all HIS love,
mitzi


"Lift up the Cross"by Rebecca J. Peck

Lift up the cross carry the light of the gospel
Always proclaim GOD's Holy unchangeable WORD
Weep for the lost pray they will heed to the SPIRIT's call
Preach to all men until every ear had heard

Lift up the cross share the good news of salvation
Multitudes long to know there is hope for their souls
Give of your best fervently seeking the kingdom
Over all else know CHRIST and make HIM known

Lift up the cross high above the clouds of deception
Doubt and confusion
Tell the world GOD so loved HE gave us HIS Son, HE gave us HIS Son

Lift up the cross high above the clouds of deception
Doubt and confusion
Tell the world GOD so loved HE gave us HIS Son, HE gave us HIS Son.

Lift up the cross scorners and skeptics are watching
Don't be afraid there's power in JESUS' name
Stand for the faith having no need for apology
Speak forth the truth boldly and unashamed

Lift up the cross there is no greater honor
Than to obey the call no matter the cost
Lay down your life fully devoted to serve the LORD
Live all the rest of your days to lift up the cross

I do not have the freedom to share all that I am learning concerning this issue... it is much worse than I have shared above. But I do want to share the Parker's heart with you and their prayer for their family throughout this campaign has been "Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ." Philippians 1:27 . I had the privilege recently of hearing Wayne's wife, Lisa, pray for these former patients and for their opponent's heart who treated them. Her heart was absolutely broken as she sobbed deeply over the pain and injury of these innocent patients and their family members who had put their hope and trust in this doctor... they have met some of them as they campaign across this valley. You see, Lisa's first husband died of cancer many years ago when their child was but an infant. She has walked this road of pain and her heart is compassionate towards them. She knows the desperation one feels in this situation and how you put so much trust in your physician to do what is best for yourself or your loved ones. I asked Lisa if I could share this with you so you could see inside their heart as I had the privilege of doing. As Wayne shared on a radio show, "to not have made this information public would have been morally wrong." This is the kind of people that Wayne and Lisa are...they love CHRIST, love their four precious kids, and love the people HE has called them to serve. I am asking you to vote for them, contribute financially to this campaign that GOD has called them to, to put up a yard sign, to volunteer at the headquarters,(www.wayneparker08.com), to encourage them, and especially pray for Wayne and Lisa and their dear family. It is a war, spiritual warfare, and they are on the frontlines, as they are fighting to serve the LORD, and to serve us. To find themselves in this position is not where they expected to be walking. It is very uncomfortable at times, but as they have followed the call of GOD, this is where the battle has led. May we be faithful in our love and support of them as HE has called them out to "Lift up the Cross" for "such a time as this."

Play Ball!

"It is the Lord: let Him do what seemeth Him good". (1 Sam. 3:18)



Dear Friends,


Last Saturday morning as my brother's family was "battening down the hatches" near Houston, Texas, as Hurricane Ike was beating down upon them, and my Dad was on an Honor Flight to Washington D.C. to honor our World War 2 veterans, some of the men in our church got up a pick up softball game for whoever wanted to play. I had no intentions to play, didn't even consider it...my body just doesn't work at the speed it used to. Hannah Beth mentioned she thought it would be fun earlier in the week to play and when the gas prices went up around here and the pumps ran out of gas, our Saturday plans were altered to do something close to home. I woke her up Saturday morning to see if she was still interested in playing and she was... the only problem is she just doesn't like to do things by herself. Her sleepy headed brother wasn't interested, and I told her "no" when she asked me...I was enjoying a lazy morning reading on the front porch...besides it had been close to 20 years since I've played beyond throwing with the kids out in the front yard. I used to be pretty good in high school but a whole lot of water has gone under the bridge since then, a whole lot. In fact the last time I remember playing in a game was with our church team a few months after John Mac was born...and he is 18. I remember "tinkling" on myself as I ran around the bases. I guess those were the days before "Depends,"... at least I could still run back then. As Hannah Beth browsed through closets and the garage looking for her cleats, she asked me to help her. I looked in the closet in the guest room and saw my old softball glove in a big metal popcorn can, along with our other ball gloves. Something crazy came over me, and I decided to try and play...that would prove to be a painful decision.
We never did find Hannah Beth's cleats, but we finished getting ready, taking Hannah Beth's bat, and our gloves, and headed to the ball field. When we got there, we were the only girls there. The rest were Dad's and their son's. Thankfully, another Dad showed up with his daughter in a few minutes...I sure am glad, she became my "legs," during the game. HB and I warmed our arms up as the Dad's and their sons were warming up and then we took some batting practice. I fanned the air a few times getting used to the slow-pitch ball, but was thankful to be able to make contact. After we batted a little, they divided us up in teams and HB and me got on opposite teams. Our "coach" asked me where I wanted to play, and I said left field. I used to be able to catch fly balls pretty good and it was not in the middle of the action, so I trotted to left field where I tried to stretch really good..little beknownst to my body, I was about to throw it in shock. After we played in the field, we went in to bat, and I was 6th in the batting line up. I was relieved when I hit a fly ball that landed in front of Hannah Beth, she was playing left field also, and ran triumphantly to first base...not fast, but I got there. The next batter behind me, hit the ball and I began my run to second...as I approached the bag, all of the sudden, my legs collapsed under me, and I hit the ground...got a strawberry and everything, just like i used to sliding into base...only this time instead of sliding into second, I was collapsing on the way to second base...that was really humbling. I think I was out anyway, but I managed to get up and go limping off the field. Folks just thought I fell, and I did, but i have never fallen because my legs wouldn't cooperate...it felt like I had strained a muscle in my left hip...and later it felt like both hips. It wasn't just my hips, it was a whole area of my body, like from my belly button down to the bottom of my thighs...other than that...I was sort of fine:). After we batted, I went back to left field, but I knew that if I had to run I wouldn't be able to get to the ball. After that inning was over, I told our "coach" I couldn't run, so they got the 13 year old girl to run for me while I batted, and she did a great job. He asked me if I could play first base. I had played first base when I was in the sixth grade when I played on the boys baseball team, and another time when we lived in Texas. I was switched positions from the outfield after our first basemen got hit in the face with the ball and had to go to the emergency room...that was a long time ago. I said I would try, and so I did try. I have never played first base so much on my knees and belly (I played on my knees all the time when I was catching in high school, but that's because I wanted to not because I had to because I couldn't stand up) but I managed to play it and only missed a few balls. Thank the LORD... those men were humming the ball pretty fast across that field. I yelled out, "Hey I'm a girl."...and they had no mercy. They said something about "Palin Power" and just kept firing them to me. I was praying a lot, I really was, and by the end of the game, I was catching them out of self defense, and holding on for dear life...thankfully, we won, and I survived.
I'd better go ahead and confess my sins cause Hannah Beth threatened to tell ya'll if I didn't... I was playing first base and Hannah Beth hit the ball. It was a close play and I had to stretch to make the play...I thought my toe came off the bag, but the guy who called the play said she was out. Hannah Beth said she saw my foot come off the bag when she ran by. Instead of speaking up about my toe coming off the bag, I just stayed quiet. Later, I confessed to her I was sorry I didn't speak up too much about it. I half heartedly said to the Dad who was calling, "Are you sure my foot didn't come off the bag?" as HB walked to the dugout. I missed a good opportunity to show integrity there in front of my daughter and I blew it...that's why it's good for me not be competing too much in sports. I am competitive...and I blew it when I had a chance to be honest.
Later on, as my body was still aching from the shock it received that morning...I started thinking about how my injury had caused me to switch positions. I started out in left field, thinking I was playing it "safe" and was comfortable out there, and low and behold, suddenly I was thrust in the middle of the action, playing first base...not in spite of my weakness, but because of it. I started thinking about how that is so much like life. Sometimes we switch positions and we really like it when it's our choosing or something we feel is advantageous, or the "LORD's will." I really liked the switch in our position when we felt the call as a young married couple the LORD was leading us to the foreign mission field. My husband returned to college and finished in record time at 11 years:). He retired from General Motors after 10 years and less than a month later we moved to Ft. Worth, Texas where he attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. I attended nursing school at Tarrant County Junior College. What a wonderful 3 years it was, though very challenging for me at times with my school work. What dear friends we made at seminary, at work, and at church, Travis Avenue Baptist. Thank you for all the dear love you lavished upon us our dear teachers, the Lenamons, the Morgans, and the Waters. Johnny and I graduated the same weekend, me on Friday night, and he the next day...what a weekend that was, and such a special time to celebrate GOD's goodness in our lives.
Then sometimes our positions are switched not as much to our liking due to loosing a job, divorce, health issues, death of a loved one or whatever, and we struggle with that not realizing that our "Coach" the LORD JESUS CHRIST is working this change of positions not only for our good, but for the good of others and for HIS honor and glory. When Johnny said we needed to move back to Alabama while we waited for a church to call us, I did not want to go. I liked the "position" we were playing...we both loved Texas, and I wanted to stay. But, my husband felt GOD's will was for us to head back to Alabama and for him to help in the family business while I worked as a nurse in Labor and Delivery at Decatur General Hospital where I was born. We also found out shortly after leaving Texas that we were pregnant with John Mac...a "position" we found very favorable. As our COACH would have it, HE called us to a church a few months down the road, and we moved to a little town called Billingsley, Al about an hour south of Birmingham. I sure did love that "position" until I got so sick that I was unable to continue there with a two year old and infant two years later. I was at my wit's end with my increasingly odd physical afflictions. I did not want to change "positions," but we felt we had no choice. In fact, our COACH was using this "hurricane" to move us back to Athens.
I write about this theme of suffering often, I guess that because that's where the LORD has taught me the most how much HE loves me. As I write this, I think of Joseph in the Bible and how his position was "switched" from being pampered as his father's favored son and being a messenger boy to his brothers out in the field, to becoming a slave in Egypt... at the hands of his own brothers. Thankfully, GOD was working out HIS sovereign plans and purposes to raise up a Deliverer for everyone years later when that whole region was in a famine. Joseph's life was turned upside down and GOD allowed it...to use Joseph to save and rescue many from famine including his own family who didn't recognize Joseph when he was second in command to the Pharaoh. Joseph spent many long years in prison, not having a clue what GOD was up to, but we know that HE trusted GOD through all the confusion HE was allowed to suffer. And when he did meet his brothers after many years again, Joseph held no bitterness in his heart against them...instead he told them, " And as for you, you meant evil against me, but GOD meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive," Genesis 50:20.
What an example to my heart when my COACH, my LORD JESUS CHRIST, who gave HIMself for me and you on Calvary switches our "position." HE knows all about having HIS position switched...HE left HIS glorious home in heaven to come and be born in the most humble of circumstances in a stable or cave, suffer ridicule on this earth and die on a cross for your sins and mine. Yes, HE knows all about "switching" positions to fulfill HIS FATHER's will...but out of that change of positions came eternal life for you and me, and all those GOD has chosen before the foundations of the world to be HIS children...

" Praise be to the GOD and FATHER of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in CHRIST. For HE chose us in HIM before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in HIS sight. In love HE predestined us to be adopted as HIS sons through JESUS CHRIST, in accordance with HIS pleasure and will-to the praise of HIS glorious grace, which HE has freely given us in the One HE loves. In HIM we have redemption through HIS blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of GOD's grace that HE lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding...in HIM we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of HIM who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of HIS will in order that we,...who hope in CHRIST, might be for the praise of HIS glory. And you also were included in CHRIST when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation." Ephesians 1:3-8,11-13.


What a glorious change for us who are in CHRIST JESUS! He changes us from our "position" of eternal death to eternal life through CHRIST JESUS HIS SON...and gives us all the spiritual blessings that go along with that change of "position." "Behold what manner of love the FATHER has given unto us that we should be called the sons of GOD," I John 3:1. IT is GOD who chooses to switch my position...and just as CHRIST had to die to bring life to us, so we too are called to "follow in HIS steps", "take up our cross daily and follow HIM." We are called to "die" to our hopes and dreams and offer them to HIM so that HE might bring forth life through our "crosses," and HIM changing our "position." It took me several years to accept HIM changing our "position" after we moved back home, but HE has taught me, as HE taught Paul, "... for I have learned to be content in whatever situation I am in, " Philippians 4:11. I am thankful that "GOD's ways are higher than mine, and HIS thoughts are not my thoughts"...Isaiah 55:9.

I think of one of my dear doctors out in Texas...Dr. Rea is a cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon by training, and was practicing in that field when he became sick from pesticides in his home, gases in the operating room, and formaldehyde. Through the events of his suffering and getting well, sleeping outside due to sensitivity to chemicals, and only able to eat one food a day for a long time, he learned the tools that would help thousands of patients like me who have gone from doctor to doctor with no answers, return to health. GOD has brought patients, including doctors, from all over the world to Dr. Rea for healing...and all this happened when GOD changed his position through an injury from being a surgeon only to being a world renowned environmental health doctor (www.ehcd.com, www.aehf.com).
You know, it's not easy to accept our position being changed when we don't want it to be changed, but that is the way of the cross, to die to self, and surrender to GOD's plans and purposes. HE wants to bring life to those around us, and HE does that through us laying down our lives, and being a vessel of GOD's living water that flows through us. Sometimes those changes are really hard and difficult to accept, but if we can but learn to trust the LORD's wisdom and what HE's doing, it will help us to accept HIM changing our position, and help us to realize our circumstances are not just random events happening in our lives ... HE is the one who does it. As I've often heard Elisabeth Elliot, who had her "position" changed when her husband Jim was killed by the Auca Indians, and then again, when her second husband died of cancer, say, "In acceptance lieth peace."

I was challenged in my Streams in the Desert devotion for Sept 17 to "see GOD in everything," in every circumstance, in every person, and especially when we find ourselves wondering what is happening to us and our "position" has been changed. The verse was from 1 Samuel 3:18..."It is the Lord: let him do what seemeth him good".

Streams in the Desert said:

"See God in everything, and God will calm and color all that thou dost see!" It may be that the circumstances of our sorrows will not be removed, their condition will remain unchanged; but if Christ, as Lord and Master of our life, is brought into our grief and gloom, "HE will compass us about with songs of deliverance." To see HIM, and to be sure that His wisdom cannot err, His power cannot fail, His love can never change; to know that even His direst dealings with us are for our deepest spiritual gain, is to be able to say, in the midst of bereavement, sorrow, pain, and loss, "The Lord gave, and the Lord hath, taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord."

Nothing else but seeing God in everything will make us loving and patient with those who annoy and trouble us. They will be to us then only instruments for accomplishing His tender and wise purposes toward us, and we shall even find ourselves at last inwardly thanking them for the blessings they bring us. Nothing else will completely put an end to all murmuring or rebelling thoughts.--H. W. Smith.

"Romans 8:28 still applies "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."

I heard a song a few years ago on "The Gospel Greats" radio show (www.thegospelgreats.com) called "For My Good and For HIS Glory." You can listen to "The Gospel Greats" on the web by clicking on http://www.sunlite-radio.com/page14.html. The words just went right to my heart, and encouraged me so much. The words come to mind as I write this about GOD changing our "positions in life"...it's part of our maturing as CHRISTians to learn to trust our COACH. HE knows what HE's doing to bring about victory in our lives and the lives that our life will touch. Sometimes HE does change our "position" and HE doesn't even bother to consult us HE just does it. HE is our CREATOR, our POTTER, and as it says in the Bible, the Potter doesn't have to ask the clay what HE's doing..."O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? says the LORD. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel. "
I have another dear doctor in Texas who trusts her Potter for what HE had done in her life. Though her "position" has been changed through health challenges....instead of being bitter about what GOD allowed through her weakness...she serves HIM faithfully as a wonderful physician at the Environmental Health Clinic in Dallas. HE used her weakness to change her "position"and broaden her position of influence where literally lives from all over the world are being delivered from the "bondage" of sickness because of the "position" where GOD moved her. How very thankful and grateful I am for the healing that GOD has brought to my body through her help...I sure wouldn't have been on that softball field Saturday if it wasn't for her.

Yes, my body is getting older and the old gray mare isn't what she used to be, but that's okay. I wouldn't have chosen this "position" my COACH put me in and the sickness that came with it, but I wouldn't switch the "position" the LORD has had me in the past several years for the best health in the world. For in my "weakness" HE has drawn me closer to HIM, shaped and molded our family, brought so many dear people into my lives that I wouldn't have met otherwise, and taught me so much. Hopefully, HE will use some of what HE's taught me to be a blessing to others somewhere along the way.

I walked a mile with Pleasure,
She chattered all the way;
But left me none the wiser
For all she had to say.

I walked a mile with Sorrow,
And ne'er a word said she;
But, oh the things I learned from her
When sorrow walked with me.

The next morning after the ball game, I was at church with my family, skinned up legs and all. Thankfully, I was still able to walk. After church was over, one of the guys who was firing the balls across the field at me said it was really a blessing when I got switched to first base...he said he was confident throwing to me, that I knew how to play first base(he just thought I was hustling cause I stayed in the dirt more than I stood up). I was honored that he felt that way with this 46 year old woman, who could barely walk, much less run, playing first base. It's just further evidence that GOD is indeed strong in our weaknesses, and uses us in the positions HE puts us in when we are weak. I know this, I sure did enjoy getting out on that softball field, even if I was in pain every step I took. I found this out, I'm not ready just yet to hang up my ball glove but I do have some work to do to get in shape to play. I'd better get busy so the next time Hannah Beth says, "Let's go play, Mama,"... I'll be ready to 'Play Ball!"

With all HIS love,
mitzi

For My Good and For HIS Glory by Rebecca J. Peck
"I must admit that I don’t understand
Why God would let me face
This painful circumstance.
All I have to cling to is His Word and His Name.
But that’s enough, so I will trust.

Because I love the Lord He’s promised me
He’ll work all things for good.
Through my tears I believe
That His ways are higher than any of my own.
Though my heart aches, He makes no mistakes.
(Chorus)

It’s for my good and for His glory.
This trial’s not the end of the story
There’s a bigger picture God alone can see.
Faith will take me through this sorrow
For I know Who holds tomorrow.
And He assures me
It’s for my good and for His glory.
(Bridge)

Though I would not have chosen
The suffering that has come
I’m willing now to say
Lord, not my will but Yours be done."

"For Such a Time as This"

For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" Ester 4:14



Dear Friends,

One of my young friends recently wrote me and said, " Thank you for your weekly email, its almost like reading a newspaper.:) Because its sooo long, no offense but I'm glad God has given somebody the strength and courage to do this." I smiled and chuckled as I read this and she later wrote and asked me how long I had been writing my weekly emails. I told her it had been around 3 years now. Thank you for asking, dear one, and I appreciate your encouragement to me, even if these emails do seem like "reading a newspaper" to you. I'm quite sure you're not alone in your thoughts about that:). I started writing them at first to a friend during another "hurricane" in my life when my thinking and energy went south, or I should say went away. That is amazing that I started writing when I was having such a difficult time thinking...that in itself is the beautiful grace of GOD. Somewhere along the way, somehow it evolved (I'm not crazy about that word) into somewhat of a devotional...although they are usually too long for that, maybe some of you think of them as being a "Reader's Digest Condensed Book." Whatever these emails are to you, this morning, I just wanted to share my heart with you...not a devotion, just writing a letter from my heart to yours, thoughts I've been having about the new Republican Vice Presidential nominee, Sarah Palin. I know some of you, my dear friends, don't agree with me on this issue, and that's fine. I love you, we can differ and still love each other, Johnny and me do it all the time:).

A couple of weeks ago, Hannah Beth and I were getting ready to leave to go to my sister's wedding that afternoon a couple of hours away. Hannah Beth called me into the den to hear John McCain announce his vice president nominee. Well, that was the first I had ever heard of Sarah Palin, but certainly, as we all know by now, not the last. There was something about her that glued Hannah Beth and I both to the television as we learned about her just as ya'll that she was a point guard on her high school basketball team and so aggressive they called her Sarah "Barracuda." She was a beauty queen, runner up for Mrs. Alaska, a moose hunter, a "hockey Mom," a devoted wife and Mom, with five kids and the baby having Down's syndrome, as well as bold and courageous and fighting corruption in the Alaskan government, along with being in charge of our largest state with such vast energy resources...all these things I'm sure ya'll are quiet familiar with by now. We were so intrigued with her that we were almost late for the wedding practice because we were watching her on TV. That was even before she made the powerful speech at the Republican National Committee that my neighbor described her as "tough but endearing." Yes, that's a great way to describe her...bold, courageous, and endearing, there's just something about Sarah Palin that reaches into our hearts.

When I heard her story about how she had been a "hockey Mom" and then PTA leader, and then City Council, Mayor, and then Governor and heard her speak at the convention, I was struck by her as this is something more than just a "sharp lady pursuing political power." There was a power, and I believe the power of GOD upon her life that has "raised her up for such a time" as this, similar to the Old Testament story of Queen Ester, whom GOD raised up to deliver the Jews from being killed. As I said, I am just sharing my heart with you, what I perceive about Sarah Palin, her family and GOD's divine anointing and calling upon their lives...and it is a "their", because I believe HE's called her and her family and provided HIS grace for them as HE has for her and the unique doors HE has opened for to serve HIM. Before I heard that Sarah Palin loved JESUS CHRIST and heard that she and her husband were "for real" in their faith, I sensed GOD's power upon her life, as I know some of you have.

As you know, I have passed along several emails to some of you my dear friends and family sharing with you information about her faith and her church, people who know her and her family personally, and they have asked for prayer for her and her family and her church family to be protected by GOD during this difficult time. A friend of mine wrote me after i shared one of the emails with her. She said she was glad that I passed that along about Sarah Palin, because among some of her homeschool friends were afraid to speak out in support of her because Sarah Palin was a Mom with five kids and she didn't stay "at home," with them like the Bible teaches in Titus 2. All ya'll who know Johnny and me know that we have the same conviction about GOD calling Mom's to be home raising their children, whenever that is possible. But there are exception's to this, such as when a spouse dies, or divorce and the other partner has to provide for the family because the church isn't doing that (this is our role as a church family to provide for widows and their children), and sometimes the wife is needed to help out to make ends meet, not for luxuries but just to pay the bills. As I write, I am reminded of the great pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson, who has received the Presidential Medal of freedom for his work as a surgeon and helping young people.. His Mom divorced when Ben was 8 and worked long hours to provide for her two boys...I don't think GOD condemned her for working outside the home, and HE provided HIS grace to help her raise those boys to be productive, godly citizens...one who has given so much to help others. Sarah Palin probably wouldn't fall into the category of needing to help ends meet, but it is my opinion, after seeing God's power upon her, and seeing the way her husband lays down his life to be there for their family as well as her, (like taking the baby to work with her and nursing it, kids streaming in and out of the office) I personally believe that this is someone special that GOD has called, prepared and anointed to help lead our country and uphold godly values "for such a time as this," even though she does have a family at home.

You know, when GOD calls us, and equips us and puts HIS desires in our hearts, and opens doors for us...it's not always understood by those around us. I think that as we have been allowed to see a peek into her life, we see these kids have two parents, and a large extended family, who loves them and sacrifices for them very much and as Governor Palin said, "I have a lot of helpers at home, my kids" ... and what an awesome education these kids have being the mayor's kids, the governor's kids, and now possibly the Vice President of the United States...opportunities that we home Mom's can only dream of for our kids. I am not on the Geraldine Ferraro bandwagon that says, "what would she do if she were home? She's too talented for that." No, I rolled my eyes when I heard that on a news interview...as a stay at home mom, I know there are endless ways to invest in your family, and endless ways to use the GOD given talents that GOD has gifted each of us with lay down our lives for our families. But, I also know that GOD calls us out to do the unusual sometimes to accomplish HIS plans and purposes...and in my opinion, this seems to be one of those times HE has done that. We see that over and over in the Bible...that "God's ways are higher than ours, and HIS thoughts are not our thoughts." In the Old Testament, GOD raised up men and women to deliver HIS people at times, and one of those was a woman named Deborah who was a Judge when the nation was ruled by judges instead of kings. Deborah, who story is found in Judges 4-5 was the only female Judge of Israel. She was also a prophet, and the wife of Lappidoth. We're not told if she had children or not. Her being used in that role versus a man was perhaps an indictment on the men that there were none godly enough to be used to deliver the children of GOD. Even so, GOD chose to use this woman to deliver HIS children. If you look at our country, and parallel it to the Israelites and their decline, I can certainly see some similarities...They had good kings, like King David, and then they would be followed by bad kings, and then a good king and finally GOD said enough, and allowed them to be taken away into Babylonian captivity for their sin where they remained for 70 years. I see a parallel in our country that GOD has allowed us to be led by good Presidents and not so good ones, and just when it looks like we're going down...He sends someone that most folks have never heard of, that HE raised up in a hidden place, (had you ever heard of Wasilla, Alaska before two weeks ago?)...with no political aspirations that we know of, it just seems she's been on this journey to make a difference, first in her children's public school through the PTA, and then in her hometown on the city council and mayor, then Governor, and now possibly the Vice President of the United States. It certainly doesn't seem to me that she had a lot of political aspirations to seek power. Instead it seems that she has a servant's heart, which she did mention in her acceptance speech for the Vice President nominee. I believe that she loves JESUS with all her heart and that HE has raised her up because of HIS love and mercy for us...HE is not through with the United States yet. I feel that instead of criticizing, we should be very grateful to GOD for raising up one such as her who is not afraid to speak out against evil, and stand for good, one who has already inspired and put boldness in the hearts of those around her to do the same. I for one have been inspired by her courageousness and for her love for her family. GOD doesn't always call us to the comfortable, usually HE doesn't...and certainly this place HE has called Sarah Palin and her family to walk is not always comfortable...in fact, this place of the Vice Presidency would be downright difficult to have every move of your family life scrutinized by the whole world. During her acceptance speech, the boldness and confidence she addressed the media was amazing to me... that to me was an indication she was something special anointed by GOD "for such a time as this." Interesting, that's something the Pharisees marveled about JESUS that HE spoke with such authority, and who could deny that Sarah Palin spoke with authority. I read a Proverb shortly after that I had never noticed before that said, "But those who rebuke the wicked will have delight, And a good blessing will come to them." Proverb 24:25...Sarah Palin's speech and leadership in Alaska came to my mind.

Who among us does not realize that as a country we deserve judgment for our gross sinfulness, but GOD in HIS mercy seemingly keeps staying the hand of HIS wrath upon us. I for one was really delighted when it seemed that HE raised up Sarah Palin out of nowhere (can any good thing come out of Nazareth), to be Vice President on the Republican ticket. Before she came on the scene, it sure did look like our country's leadership was a dismal pick, now all of the sudden there is hope and a new light flickering for those who have conservative CHRISTian values. I just hate to see us divided over this one whom GOD certainly seems to have HIS grace and hand upon, including her whole family. The way they have handled the pressure of these "hurricanes" that have blown against their family these past few weeks has been a demonstration of the grace of GOD, who could deny that. Who among us would have the courage to handle the pregnancy issue the way their family did with grace and forgiveness in front of the world. Not only did they not hide the fact that their daughter made a mistake, which they very well could have hidden in the form of an abortion, but they shared their pain with us, and their daughter and boyfriend courageously stood in front of all of us to see. What a picture of GOD's forgiving grace in all of our lives. HE doesn't throw us away when we sin and mess up. Instead as we come to HIM in forgiveness, with repentant hearts, HE redeems our sins, and works them out for good...and you just watch and see how HE is working all of these things in Sarah Palin's family for good, not just theirs, but ours, as they have been so open and shared their lives with ours. Their courage inspires us to "be strong and courageous" and that is how the body of CHRIST works.

I keep in my devotion book a quote from Springs in the Valley that says, " Are you not willing to endure scars in order to liberate souls?" This quote reminds me to be willing to sacrifice and be hurt in order to lead people to CHRIST and be set free from the bondage of sin. Amy Carmichael wrote a poem called "Hast Thou No Scar" about being willing to endure scars that others may come to CHRIST. I see Sarah Palin and her family willing to endure "scars" that the American people may continue to enjoy the freedoms that we have at the cost of those who have gone before us. John Jay, the very first Supreme Court Justice said: " Americans should select and prefer CHRISTians as their rulers." He felt that only CHRISTians should be elected to serve in office, to honor GOD and ensure that our CHRISTian freedoms would be protected... freedoms preserved by our men and women in the military who have laid down their lives for us...who have the scars that we might be free. GOD doesn't always call us to the comfortable, usually HE doesn't..I think about Hannah, in the Old Testament and the suffering she went through while waiting on GOD to give her a child. Then GOD blessed her with Samuel she had prayed for, and after weaning him, she took him to the temple for the priest Eli to raise him so he could become a priest. We conservative CHRISTian parents certainly wouldn't think that was the best for our kids, they need to be at home with their Mom, but that's what GOD allowed, and certainly HE was leading Hannah in her paths after she had prayed and hoped and desired for this little one so very much. I think of Mary, and the virgin birth, and she was engaged to Joseph...what "scars," and ridicule she endured that she might carry the SON of GOD inside her as people talked about her pregnancy...who would have believed that she was a virgin carrying the SON of GOD? Instead of a nice place to deliver her son, GOD had them traveling to Bethlehem, to fulfill prophecy (and GOD used common circumstances to do that, a census was being taken) and give birth to the KING of KINGS in a stable or cave. JESUS HIMself, who left HIS home in heaven, and lived a common life, serving, pouring out HIS life day after day, was willing to endure the scars folks mocking him, condemning him, and eventually beating him and nailing him to a cross, in order to liberate our souls from sin. This place HE has called Sarah Palin and her family to walk is not an easy place and I want to encourage you my sister's in CHRIST, and a few brothers reading this:), before you cast stones at her for not staying home with her family, look at the wander of what GOD seems to be doing through her and her family, and pray for them instead of condemning them. We CHRISTians, especially conservative ones, are the world's worst at kicking and wounding our own soldiers...I hope you'll join me in praying for Sarah and her family, and her church family, and watch in wonder at what GOD does through this one HE seems to have raised up, "for such a time as this." Then we can explain to our daughter's that sometimes GOD does things we don't always understand, but HE knows what HE's about to carry out HIS sovereign purposes..."His ways are higher than ours and HIS thoughts are not our thoughts..."

I've shared several times lately this verse from Jeremiah 10:23, "I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for a man to direct his steps." If we believe this to be true, and realize that GOD sometimes calls us to do the out of the ordinary, then we should extend the same grace to our brother's and sister's in CHRIST that GOD calls to a different path than the one HE has called us to walk. I for one am very thankful that HE has raised up Sarah Palin and her family "for such a time as this," and will support her and her family with my prayers now and with my vote in November.
I love you all, and yes, I do expect to hear from you on this one:). I mean no harm, I desire to help you think about her calling perhaps being from GOD instead of being out of GOD's will...where GOD guides HE provides, and HIS grace is sufficient for Sarah Palin's family just as it is our family. I want to ask you again my dear friends to pray for her and her family during this difficult time, and thank GOD for raising up someone who loves CHRIST and is who is bold and courageous to stand for what we believe and for what our Founding Father's believed. May we encourage her and her family as they sacrifice for us, and not be critical and shoot our own. Please also remember those who are in the path of the hurricane this weekend, including my brother's family who lives near Houston. Thank you so much for all your dear prayers and your dear love in CHRIST.
With all HIS love,
mitzi

It would be peculiarly improper to omit, in this first official act, my fervent supplications to the ALMIGHTY BEING who rules over the universe, who presides in councils of nations and whose providential aids can supply ever human defect....No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the Invisible Hand, which conducts the affairs of men, more than the people of the United States. Every step, by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation, seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency....
President George Washington at his first Inaugural Address, August 30, 1789


NO SCAR?

"For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29



Hast thou no scar?
No hidden scar on foot, or side, or hand?
I hear thee sung as mighty in the land;
I hear them hail thy bright, ascendant star.
Hast thou no scar?

Hast thou no wound?
Yet I was wounded by the archers; spent,
Leaned Me against a tree to die; and rent
By ravening beasts that compassed Me, I swooned.
Hast thou no wound?

No wound? No scar?
Yet, as the Master shall the servant be,
And piercèd are the feet that follow Me.
But thine are whole; can he have followed far
Who hast no wound or scar?



BY AMY CARMICHAEL

Missionary to India who suffered much -- and bore much eternal fruit.



Back in the 1920s, Amy rescued hundreds of orphaned children -- especially little girls that would be dedicated to Hindu gods for use in sexual temple rituals. By God's wonderful grace, some had miraculously escaped from such pagan slavery and were led to the Irish "mother" who lovingly cared for each child God sent her.



In 1931 she prayed, “God, please do with me whatever you want. Do anything that will help me to serve you better.”


That same day, she fell, suffering fractures that would cripple her for the rest of her life.
Not one to be discouraged or bitter when faced with pain or persecution, Amy now had the opportunity to demonstrate God's faithfulness before a much larger "host" of witnesses. While her growing children had continual freedom to enter her bedroom and share their hearts with their beloved "mother," she now had the quiet times that allowed her to write books, poems, and letters that were translated and shared around the world. "Great is Thy faithfulness," O Lord!

"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross..." Hebrews 12:1-2

"A Happy Trouble"

"For I know WHOM I have believed, and am persuaded that HE is able to keep that which I have committed unto HIM against that day." 1Timothy 1:12

Dear Friends,

This past Monday was Labor Day...the day Hurricane Gustov was destined to hit the coast near New Orleans around 9:00 a.m. After getting up, and throwing a load of clothes in the washer, I grabbed my Bible, loaded my boat and headed to the river. I wasn't too sure about the weather , but when I got to the river, the sun was shining and the water was as still as could be. I wasn't concerned anymore about the weather except for those in the path of the hurricane down south. I got my boat unloaded and into the water and realized I had forgotten my life jacket. I have never done that before. It wasn't a good feeling to be without my life jacket, but I decided to go ahead and go for it and paddled to my favorite spot. When I arrived at the log where I couldn't go any farther without crawling over it, I pulled out my Bible and began reading it in my boat. As I read, the wind started blowing briskly in the trees overhead. I thought, wow, that must be some of the outer bands of the hurricane blowing. After a while, I decided to head on back, and while I was paddling the wind blew my cap off while I was still in Big Creek...that worried me a little bit, since it was more protected by the hills beside it, and I thought I better get on in before the wind gets worse. Thankfully, the wind was behind my back, which was most unusual, I usually paddle against the wind on my way back. But because of the hurricane, the wind was blowing in the opposite direction Monday morning. The wind actually helped to blow me back to my destination, against the current, and after a while and no incidents,I thankfully arrived safely back at shore.
On my way home from the river, my Dad called and asked me what I was up to that morning. He gently scolded me for going paddling alone again, and invited our family over that evening to celebrate my Mom's 78th birthday ( if you're keeping up with these emails, I mistakenly said a while back my Mom was 78, I goofed:) and my 46th birthday. We were born 3 days apart, my Mom on August 30 and me on September 2nd, 32 years apart. We gathered at my Mom and Dad's around 4:30 p.m. that afternoon and they had already cut up tomatoes and onions and boiled corn from the garden, baked beans and had quite a spread on the table. My Dad grilled out hamburgers and hotdogs, yummy, and later we had a delicious white cake my Daddy had made, with some Banana Split ice cream to celebrate. My brother Ralph and his wife, Wendy was there, along with their son, Daniel ,who recently finished serving 6 years in the Marines. My sis and her new hubby were out cruising somewhere in the Caribbean dodging tropical storms on their honeymoon. My other brother and his family already had made other plans, and my brother and his family in Texas...well they didn't make the party either. We sure missed ya'll. By the way, thank you all my dear brother's and sisters for all your birthday cards to me, your calls, your email from your honeymoon Jill, and coming by to see me, Ralph...ya'll are great, I love you, and I am so thankful GOD gave me such a special family. What a special blessing that at almost 82, my Dad is still able to grill out for our family, and he and Mom love us so much and continue to lay down their lives for us after all these years. When we got ready to leave, the kids and I got in the Yukon and I asked them if they thanked Grandmother and Granddaddy for the meal. At 16 and 18, I still check up on their manners when I have mind enough to ask them. They assured me they did, and I guess I was thinking about that...when I began backing up and then a sickening familiar sound-crash! We came to an abrupt stop. The look on my kids face, and the "oh no's" said it all...I had backed into my nephew's new 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse, a really nice car. I didn't just back into the bumper, the car was behind me to the left, I hit the passenger door and frame for the front fender...where both will probably have to be replaced. This immediately caused quite a stir. My sister-in-law who was standing nearby offered to go in and tell her son for me, which she did, and when he came out, here came the rest of the family, except my Mom who couldn't bear to see the damage. My nephew came out and after seeing the damage was so very gracious about me backing into his car. After my brother, nephew, and Dad assessed the damage, I made the decision to call my husband and let him know of my latest fender bender...I say latest because this is the second time this year I have backed into a car without looking. A few months ago, I was at my Mother-in-law's, again with my kid's and some of their friends in the car, and backed into a young man's new truck...didn't even think about looking behind me, as I was talking pretty sternly to my son at the time about something that happened inside. Then, a couple of years ago, I was in my husband's truck at night, and I turned into a fire hydrant in the parking lot of a gas station, crunching his front fender...that was an expensive kayaking trip. That accident happened after I backed the Yukon into my friend's brick wall in her driveway, yakking as I backed out... which happened after I backed into my husband's truck in our driveway when his truck was new. And I haven't even told you about the times I've gotten stuck in the mud, and the river in my husband's truck and had to be pulled out. Our body shop man just grins when he sees us coming...it's humbling. We've put his kids through college with my accidents...just kidding. So when I called my husband, who had stayed home because of a bad headache, he wasn't too "happy" to hear about my latest escapade. On the way home, I was trying to soothe myself, and the verse came to my mind "In everything give thanks for this is the will of GOD in CHRIST JESUS concerning you,"I Thessalonians 5:18 and "All things work together for good for those who love the LORD, for those who are called according to HIS purposes." Romans 8:28. Sure would have been nice if these same verses had come to my husband's mind...but they didn't seem to that night, in fact, I think his headache got a lot worse.
The day before this little accident happened I read a great devotion in Charles Spurgeon's Morning and Evening that really spoke to my heart and I knew I wanted to share it with you. It was so timely...with what was going on with our weather with Hurricane Gustov earlier in the week, and as I write tropical storm Hanna, Ike, and Josephine, loom on the horizon. Charles Spurgeon talked in his devotion about seasons of great trial, not the little trials that I spoke of above, but those that shake your foundation to the very core of your soul, and those hurricanes, and storms just seem to blow in one right after the other. Our family had a year like that in 1992 when one storm after the other blew our way. John Mac was 2 and Hannah Beth was a newborn. I started having incapacitating pain in my back that gradually stiffened my muscles so much it felt like they were too small for my body. I began having severe allergic reactions, and developed searing pain all over my body while taking Prednisone for the allergic reactions. In the midst of this storm, where my emotions where stretched to where they had never been stretched before, my husband and I made the painful decision to resign the church he was pastoring so we could move back home and have more help with our babies...and it was painful, we loved our flock. Once we returned home, the kids and I lived with my Mom and Dad until my husband could work a couple of more weeks and get us moved. During that time, when I was still in searing pain, which continued for several more months...,my 2 month old baby girl, developed breathing problems, and almost died before the doctors were able to find what was causing it, a growth growing across her windpipe. She was in Children's Hospital in Birmingham, heavily sedated, while they tried to shrink the growth with Prednisone...the same medicine that had set me on searing fire. This was a tough decision for us...but our backs were to the wall. The medicine worked for a couple of months and then one day I was feeding her and she began having complications. I called the doctor and he urged us to get her back to the hospital immediately in Birmingham, an hour and a half away. She ended up having surgery, a very dangerous one, to remove the growth from her windpipe. Thankfully she didn't have to have the tracheotomy to breathe they thought she was going into the surgery. I was still very sick during this time, and each day was putting one foot in front of the other and surviving for me. My husband went from being a pastor to being in the restaurant business with his family, which honestly I think I thought I was above. But my husband's family had worked hard to help my husband and I during our seminary years, and while we lived on the pastor's salary of a small church. Now we were coming home and GOD was giving us the opportunity to help them. I realize now, that I was prideful about that...the LORD sure has had to work in my heart through the hurricanes HE allowed in our lives to humble me and help me learn to trust HIM and HIS plans for our lives. I remember one night laying in the floor with terrible pain all over my body and my back muscles were literally like bars of iron they were so stiff. My babies were asleep, my husband was at work, and I picked up my "Streams in the Desert" that was lying beside in the floor where I lay in pain. The reading that day talked about GOD bringing us to our "wits end," so that we will cry out to HIM, and HE will show HIMSELF so strong in our lives to rescue and deliver us. Psalm 107:25-31 says,

"For HE commands and raises the stormy wind, which lifts up the waves of the sea. Those aboard mount up to the heavens, they go down again to the deeps; their courage melts away because of their plight. They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wit's end-all their wisdom has come to nothing. Then they cry out to the LORD in their trouble, and HE brings them out of their distresses. HE hushes the storm to a calm, and HE brings them to their desired haven. Oh, that men would praise the [and confess to] the LORD HIS goodness and loving-kindness, and HIS wonderful works to the children of men!


Some of you are kind to say I have a good outlook through my trials or that I have a strong faith. I don't, always, believe me...I get discouraged just like you. I know what it is for the LORD to "command and raise the stormy wind and lift up the waves of the sea," and for my "courage to melt away because of my plight." I have been to my "wits end" on more than one occasion and it is a humbling place to be. I know this, that my GOD heard my cries to HIM at my "wits end," HE delivered our family from that year of hurricanes, changed forever, and I praise HIM...for HIS deliverances then, and for thousands of times since... yes I do! I am so very grateful for the doctors the LORD raised up to deliver Hannah Beth from suffocating to death and for my dear doctors (www.ehcd.com) that GOD has raised up to help deliver me . Yes, I continue to have a thorn in the flesh, but I am thankful that HE gives me enough struggles to keep me leaning on HIM, and learning that "HIS grace is sufficient and HIS power is made perfect in my weakness,"II Corinthians 12:9. Those strong winds that blew in 1992 helped to blow me closer to my LORD JESUS and grow my faith in HIM. I know those hurricane force winds will come again in our lives. Like the lessons learned from Hurricane Katrina three years ago expedited the evacuation efforts and prevented the loss of lives this time, I know the lessons the LORD has taught me in past "hurricanes," will help me to cling to HIM, trust HIM and drive me even closer to HIM the next time... "for I know WHOM I have believed, and am persuaded that HE is able to keep that which I have committed unto HIM against that day." 1Timothy 1:12
As a young pastor's wife, in my foolish pride, I thought I knew everything I needed to know about JESUS, but I didn't know HIM as I know HIM now. I know now, that HE is able to deliver me when there seems to be no way, that HE will make a way, and in the process, reveal HIS sweet love to me. I know now, that HE has plans for me and my family, that I may not understand, but they are "plans for good and not for evil,"Jeremiah 29:11, to fulfill what HE has created each of us to accomplish..."HE who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion,"Phil.1:6. I know now HE is sovereign over everything and HE directs our paths, when we have no idea what HE is up to..."Trust in the LORD with all thine heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge HIM and HE will direct your paths" Proverbs 3:5-6. Now I realize I have only begun to know HIM, and the depth of HIS love for me...a love that gave HIS life on the cross for me,a love that rescues me when I am at my "wits end," a love that draws me to HIM in my "Happy Troubles" and transforms my troubles to give me joy...a joy the world cannot comprehend. I catch glimpses of HIM, and bigger glimpses when HE allows the strong winds to blow in my life....they are indeed "Happy Troubles" that blow me to HIM. These winds of trial have taught me to lean on HIM, my ROCK, my STRONG TOWER, and that indeed HE is faithful to deliver me from all my troubles as it shares in Psalms 34:6, "This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; HE saved HIM out of all his troubles."
After 16 years, we are still in the restaurant business, and GOD has helped me to learn to accept where HE has blown us and be grateful for what HE has supplied through our family to provide our needs. I praise HIM for what HE has worked in our lives through the storms that blow us to HIM to help us love HIM and know HIM more intimately...and I know this, too, I don't want to be caught in the "hurricanes of life, on the stormy seas" without my "LIFE" jacket, JESUS CHRIST. HE is my Deliverer, not just from the storms of life, but more importantly, HE paid the price on Calvary for my sins and yours, to rescue and deliver us from the fiery and everlasting flames of Hell. John 3:16 says, "For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS only begotten SON that whosoever believes in HIM shall not perish but have everlasting life." I know that this world and it's "storms" are passing away, and my SAVIOR and everlasting life in Heaven awaits me after my journey through earth is over...the storms of life are blowing me to my eternal Destination, safe in the arms of JESUS.

In that devotion that was so spoke to my heart so deeply last Sunday, Charles Spurgeon shared about the"Happy Troubles" that blow us to JESUS:

"In seasons of severe trial, the Christian has nothing on earth that he can trust to, and is therefore compelled to cast himself on his God alone. When his vessel is on its beam-ends, and no human deliverance can avail, he must simply and entirely trust himself to the providence and care of God. Happy storm that wrecks a man on such a rock as this! O blessed hurricane that drives the soul to God and God alone! There is no getting at our God sometimes because of the multitude of our friends; but when a man is so poor, so friendless, so helpless that he has nowhere else to turn, he flies into his Father's arms, and is blessedly clasped therein! When he is burdened with troubles so pressing and so peculiar, that he cannot tell them to any but his God, he may be thankful for them; for he will learn more of his Lord then than at any other time.
Oh, tempest-tossed believer, it is a happy trouble that drives thee to thy Father! Now that thou hast only thy God to trust to, see that thou puttest thy full confidence in Him. Dishonour not thy Lord and Master by unworthy doubts and fears; but be strong in faith, giving glory to God. Show the world that thy God is worth ten thousand worlds to thee. Show rich men how rich thou art in thy poverty when the Lord God is thy helper. Show the strong man how strong thou art in thy weakness when underneath thee are the everlasting arms. Now is the time for feats of faith and valiant exploits. Be strong and very courageous, and the Lord thy God shall certainly, as surely as He built the heavens and the earth, glorify Himself in thy weakness, and magnify His might in the midst of thy distress. The grandeur of the arch of heaven would be spoiled if the sky were supported by a single visible column, and your faith would lose its glory if it rested on anything discernible by the carnal eye. "

Reading this devotion got me to thinking about indeed how happy my troubles have been when they have blown me to the arms of my dear SAVIOR. I forget in the midst of my trials sometime that this trouble I'm experiencing is the very thing that my FATHER is using to blow me closer to HIM...so therefore it is "A Happy Trouble."

When my brothers and sister and I were growing up, my Dad and Mom took us to church each Sunday morning. Often, my Mom did not feel like going due to her own battles with her chronic health issues that began when she was pregnant with me and continue to this day...but often she went anyway, and then fixed a big meal for lunch afterwards. My Mom and Dad knew the force of those hurricane winds that blew when my Mom had to spend six months in a hospital in Asheville, North Carolina, when I was four. With seven mouths to feed, one breadwinner, and money "taking wings" for medical bills, my Dad and Mom learned that GOD was faithful to our family, as HE supplied all our needs in CHRIST JESUS. One of my favorite songs I learned growing up in that Methodist church we attended was "The Solid Rock." JESUS is the Solid Rock and I know that my ANCHOR, JESUS CHRIST, has held me and my family in the midst of our hurricanes and stormy seas, and HE will continue to until HE takes us home to be with HIM where there won't be any more storms.

Well, I don't know if my husband has found the "Happy" part of me crashing into my nephew's car yet...but somewhere GOD is using it for good. Maybe it just happened to use for this week's email:)...I'm so sorry, Daniel, for crashing your car. Thank you for the grace you have shown me. Thankfully, GOD doesn't waste any of our troubles, including me crashing my nephew's new sports car...and I am very happy about that.

With all HIS love,

mitzi

Thank you, my dear friends for your birthday wishes to me. Your emails, writing on my "wall", and your cards encouraged me so much. What a dear blessing you are to me...thank you, each one of you, for showing GOD's love to me on my birthday...and by the way, thank you so much for asking me to pray for you, I count it an honor and a privilege to lift you and your requests up to the LORD.





"The Solid Rock" by Edward Mote

My hope is built on nothing less than JESUS' blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on JESUS' name.

When darkness seems to hide HIS face, I rest on HIS unchanging grace
In every high and stormy gale, my ANCHOR hold within the veil.

His oath, HIS covenant, HIS blood Supports me in the whelming flood
When all around my soul gives way, HE then is all my hope and stay.

When HE shall come with trumpet sound, Oh, may I then in HIM be found;
Dressed in HIS righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before the throne.

Chorus:
On CHRIST the solid ROCK, I stand All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.