encouragement Archives - Page 2 of 12 -

The Peace of God in Vibrant Color

“Don’t worry over anything whatever; tell God every detail of your needs in earnest and thankful prayer, and the peace of God which transcends human understanding, will keep constant guard over your hearts and minds as they rest in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 Phillips

The bid on this amazing king-size crocheted quilt (eighty beautiful squares) was $110 and no one was bidding more; until…

It was a beautiful Saturday in July when Cheryl and I decided to go to the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home annual quilt auction in Springfield. My emotions had been under the rug for some time. I missed my better half. I missed the things we looked forward to each year. I needed some encouragement.

Click here for 25 verses for the exhausted and weary.

My intentions were clear. “Cheryl, we need a play day. Let’s go to the quilt auction and enjoy their fresh fruit cobblers, get a few crafts, and see old friends. We can watch a bit of the auction for old times’ sake, but I AM NOT bidding on quilts.”

My eyes still water when I recall the many years Russell set aside $$$ for me to enjoy this annual event. I made it a personal challenge to get the bidding up on quilts that weren’t faring well. Most of the time I succeeded and dropped out before the final bid.

I always bought a few so my great-grandkids could choose one when they turned thirteen. Also, I kept a few baby quilts and full-size quilts on hand when community needs arose. But, this year I was only going to observe.

It wasn’t long before the bug bit. I grabbed a bidding card and was off and running! I came home with a beautiful stack of small quilts, lap robes, and baby quilts. Oh, yes, and this amazing crocheted piece for $140.

I do not need it. I have no idea what I will do with it! But it was NOT leaving that place for $110!

Truth? I may not have needed the quilts, but I needed the experience. I needed the excitement of being involved in something bigger than myself. I wanted to help the Children’s Home. As I look at my treasures at home, I praise God for meeting needs I didn’t know I had. I praise Him.

I napped under a colorful quilt after I got home, hugging it and praising My Father for His mercy, grace, and love.

I truly look forward to what God has planned for these beautiful quilts. Let me know how God has personally blessed you this week.

Leave a note.

Hugs, Susie

A Sisterhood of Priceless Friendships

………….Planning April 27 Sisterhood in Christ Ladies Retreat at Olive Point Baptist …………………….. Cheryl, Shae, Diana, Cathy, Carol, Pam, Heather …………

“A sweet friendship refreshes the soul.” Proverbs 27:9

Yes, friendships do refresh the soul. My friendship circle includes family, friends from school, workplaces, and church.

However, if I am not careful, my circle of friends will be only those in my church or community who think as I do. Comfy folk. They will mostly agree with my beliefs and choices in life. Easy, breezy!

To learn more about what the Bible says about friendships, click here.

In the photo above are our Women’s Ministry Director, Cathy VanDruff, and a few of the many ladies seeking God’s direction as we plan our 24th annual DCASB Ladies’ Conference: SISTERHOOD IN CHRIST. I can tell you, it will be the best yet. Please pray for the mtg., for the attendees, and for what God would have you do… help? attend? invite someone?

Being an author and writer, some of my friendship circles include guys and gals who do not have Jesus as their main priority, if at all! Sometimes, the stories they are working on can stir my heart to pray for them quietly. But, here’s the thing. I learn from them. As I get to know them better, I grow in understanding our communities better. Hopefully, I will become not only a better writer but a better person because of their friendships.

God has been stirring my heart lately about the many women who hug and smile in church on Sunday and leave with a heavy heart and no ‘real friends’ to share their deepest thoughts. I realize not everyone will come to a ladies’ conference, but everyone needs to be encouraged. I am asking God to open our spiritual eyes and hearts each day.

So, I have to ask you. How wide is your friendship circle? Are you ready to ask God who He wants you to include? Has He pricked your heart just now with the name or face of one who needs a friend? Please, pray for me as I continue to grow and seek God’s will in all I do. Praying for you, dear friend is a joy. And, I look forward to the day when you call for that friendship coffee. Sending hugs and prayers,

Hugs,

“Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falls; for he hath not another to help him up.” Bible: Ecclesiastes

Be Content in Every Situation

Oops! My “Mr.” Kitty’s Surprise – SIX Wee Ones

“… I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need and what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in every situation… ” from Phil. 4:11-13 NIV

On one of my lowest days, a very tiny, scrawny kitty made his way to the back porch where I was crying out to God. I missed my hubby. I was disappointed in myself. The list goes on…

“Mr. Kitty” was just what I needed; something to take care of and to cuddle on my down days. Well, I should have checked. Surprise! A few weeks ago, MISS Kitty gave me six little bundles of cuddlebugs!

God, in His wisdom, always gives us exactly what we need. I learn daily from Miss Kitty and God’s care for her. Feast your eyes on that momma’s face as she cares for her wee ones under an old rusty wheelbarrow in my front flower bed. Wind and weather never deterred her from her duties. She always meets me at the garage door for a bit of petting and heads back to her babies.

How is your life? Ever had times of discouragement? Is your life not always a bed of roses? Truthfully, each of us at times feels more like we’re rolling in a bed of thorns. My prayer for each reader is that you never lose track of God’s care for you; His love is beyond measure.

Find strength in God’s Word. Click here for encouraging Scriptures.

Here is one of my favorites. “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” Hebrews 13:5

Monday, six adorable little balls of fur discovered how to climb onto my front porch. Prayers appreciated!

This week I am asking God to stir my heart as well as the hearts of my readers. “Teach us, Lord, when discouragement comes to look to You. To trust You. To praise You. You, oh Lord, are enough!”

Hugs,

Drop me a note. How can I pray for you? How have you found comfort in God this winter?