Identify Your Time Robbers

Identify Your Time Robbers

Patches’ Big Friend is Hiding Something (read the article below to learn his secret)

“… walk not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:15-16

New year’s resolutions are simply not my thing. I learned a very long time ago my resolve is more of a wish list. However, this January I decided changes were needed in my life.

Instead of resolving to do better, I asked myself what were my time robbers; how did I spend my precious time. Also, I determined to make changes accordingly. This hurt a bit! (This hurt a lot!)

I would often say I didn’t watch much tv; I don’t like the new sitcoms and comedies and the news is disgusting. Yes, well … truth be known, I DID without realizing it. Enjoying lunch or dinner in my comfy chair in the livingroom, I tuned in an old game show (concentration or password plus) while I ate. So, I’m thinking I’m feeding my brain as well as my tummy. Good, right?  Hours later …!

World news at 5:30 while I ate my cereal shouldn’t be a problem. However, if I then flipped channels and found an older Hallmark movie …! I am not a disciplined person. I lie to me when I say I’ll only watch an hour a day or whatever. Not!

My chair is at the far end of the livingroom by a little table with books and remotes handy. On Friday, January 6, I put the remote under Patches’ turtle friend at the other end of the room by the fireplace. To watch tv, I have to get up and go get it. The tv has not been on since January 6. I am redeeming the time.

Click for three common time robbers we each face.

My second time robber is Facebook. Now, I will say, I like Facebook; I use it for ministry; I am encouraged by the comments and Scriptures. Quitting is not an option for me. Even so, it has to be curbed drastically! Easy peasy! I deleted the app from my phone. Now, if I have time to browse FB, I have to go into the other room to the computer. (Exercise!)

I have others, many others. I’m guessing you do as well. For me personally, I feel God calling me to redeem the time seriously. When I celebrate the tenth anniversary of my 9th birthday (2032 if you’re counting), I want to know I’ve given God my best; used the time He gave me wisely.

Please jot me a note below; what are your time robbers? How has God met you there?

Blessings and hugs,

 

 

 

Imperative Count Your Blessings Jar

Imperative Count Your Blessings Jar

My Priceless Count Your Blessings Jar

“How we praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every blessing in heaven because we belong to Christ.”  Ephesians 1:3 TLB
Imperative? Indeed! Do you not have one? Think you don’t need another ‘thing’ to do or mess with? Are you sure?
Ever find yourself in the middle of a muddle? Stressed beyond belief? Wonder where God is while your world is crumbling? You are not alone, I’ve been there…often of late!
A few weeks ago, I felt overwhelmed and so lonely. Knowing what to do, I brewed my favorite tea, found a cozy chair by the fireplace, and dumped my entire 2022 blessing jar in my lap. About halfway through reading the tiny notes I had penned, I was crying, laughing, repenting, rejoicing!
“A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.”  Proverbs 28:20 KJV
Trust me on this one. Right now, find a glass, can, basket, old kitchen bowl…whatever! Find a notepad or chop up some paper and gather some pens; you are ready! Go ahead…put in ONE blessing right now. Like today’s survival, eyesight, wisdom to read, Jesus…you get it!
For my jar, I added Momma’s favorite roses, happy ribbons, and a colorful note to an old vase. I keep it in plain sight because God’s blessings are my greatest possessions!
I promise you, God wants to just dump His blessings on you every day; you are His child; His love is powerful, consistent, and always there for you.
Here are some benefits of a blessings jar.
#1 Visual reminder of God’s goodness. Our adversary does not want us to count blessings and he WILL try to discourage your progress.
#2 Teaches our families to honor God with our thankfulness.
#3 Literally pulls us out of the pit by reminding us of our Father’s blessings.
#4 Re-inforces our witness to others as we keep His blessings in our hearts and minds.
#5 So much more… why don’t you list a few here?

If you struggle with what to write, consider the thoughts in this poem by the world-renowned Author Unknown.

Count your blessings instead of your crosses;  Count your gains instead of your losses. Count your joys instead of your woes; Count your friends instead of your foes. Count your smiles instead of your tears; Count your courage instead of your fears. Count your full years instead of your lean; Count your kind deeds instead of your mean.  Count your health instead of your wealth;  Count on God instead of yourself.

YOU are a blessing to me,

Hugs,

5 Ways to Encourage Bereaved in 2023

5 Ways to Encourage Bereaved in 2023

God’s Greatest Gift is Jesus! God’s Greatest Creation is Family!

“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” Revelation 21:4

This 2nd year without my sweet Russell is harder than the last. The miss looms heavy; yet, I am comforted by God’s Word.

Join me in encouraging others on this journey. We genuinely have Good News to share. Here are tips and cautions as we enter the year God has planned for us.

#1. Think about what adjustments the individual or family is having to make. Can you help with family needs?  Even the smallest help has a big impact; everyone needs to know someone cares!

Today, in the midst of a snowstorm and single-digit temps, a young neighbor stopped hauling his hay long enough to bring in my mail. He chatted for a few minutes, then took my trash to the dumpster on his way out.

#2 We were created as individuals; we do not all handle losses the same way. When you feel pressured to attend a family gathering or other event, it’s okay to say, “let me get back to you,” or “I really need to decline this time.”  Should someone grieving respond to your invitation in that way, remember to honor their request.

#3 Be sensitive; some may want to talk…a lot. For others, remembering the loss is still too painful. Note: a good hug, smile, and prayer are always welcome!

For me: I needed people last week, big time! So I left the house and headed for our local Walmart to sit on a bench by the checkouts. For over two hours, God showered me with amazing visits, hugs, and prayers! God’s Amazing Grace!

Here are some inspiring verses to help you and others through the grief process.

#4. When possible, share a cherished memory. Are you aware of some way the cherished loved one encouraged or inspired you or others? I have learned so much about my sweet husband; how blessed we were to have him in our lives!

#5.  Tell others how they can pray specifically for you and your family. By the same token, encourage specific prayer requests from your friends and family who are grieving. And make a list, remembering to faithfully pray.

“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.“ Lamentations 3:22-24

I am excited about the new year; I pray you are as well. God holds us in the palm of His loving hands. Our world has gone nuts, our losses are overwhelming, and our schedules unreal. Yet, Our Father never changes!

Let me hear from you,

Hugs,