tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18682982271836718612024-03-05T09:03:42.596-08:00A Fruitful VineYour wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. Psalms 128:3A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-16042691316210932652011-12-07T06:15:00.000-08:002011-12-07T06:34:23.752-08:00The New 12 Days of CHRISTMAS the Bible Way<p><sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16457">As I was feeding this morning on the Word of GOD the LORD list a fire within me and I looked at this passage with new eyes again. As many times as I have read Proverbs year after year, it never fails that the LIFE in GOD's WORD is ever growing inside me. His Word will do the same to anyone who is so inclined to search the scriptures. Today I wanted to share with you some thoughts on the first 12 verses of Proverbs 3, O to able to live a life according to the scriptures is to have a life filled with the length of long days, long life and peace.<br /></sup></p><p>I pray that as each day of the Christmas Cheer draws closer to the 25th that you will be ever desiring to add to your days all that is written in GOD Words and here in these short, powerful packed verses you will find the answers and the issues of LIFE. AMEN!!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">PROVERBS 3:1-12</span></span><br /></p><p><sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16457">1</sup>My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:</p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16458">2</sup>For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. </p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16459">3</sup>Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: </p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16460">4</sup>So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. </p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16461">5</sup>Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. </p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16462">6</sup>In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. </p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16463">7</sup>Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. </p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16464">8</sup>It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. </p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16465">9</sup>Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: </p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16466">10</sup>So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine. </p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16467">11</sup>My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: </p><p> <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-16468">12</sup>For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.<br /></p><p>Amen I pray that you have a very Blessed Christmas in the LORD as we endeavor to honor HIM by living in and through HIS Word.</p><p>Blessings All !!!<br /></p><p><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Tammy</span></span><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/Proverbs-3-6/" title="View more translations of Proverbs 3:6"></a></p>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-64458783922498660882011-06-24T08:00:00.000-07:002011-06-24T09:47:14.788-07:00...A Little Child Shall Lead ThemI have titled this message " A little Child Shall Lead Them" because it fits so well with a spiritual lesson in life that my 8 year old son taught me during our Summer vacation. The phrase was taken from Isaiah 11:6, which concerns the prophecy of the Messiah's peaceful reign here on earth. That is not what this message is about but a sweet account of how the LORD used my son to teach me what it is to find joy in an adverse situation.<br /><br />Recently my son broke his arm very badly approximately 1 week prior to our Summer vacation to Canyon Lake. This break required two pins and rod, it was a horrible experience for us all but the LORD is merciful. My son was excited to hear that there was a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">possibility</span> of getting a waterproof cast, but was later told this would not be possible since he had to have pins and a rod inserted it made the risk of infection greater. This of course meant no swimming or kayaking for Thomas. I was all prepared to hear the endless pining of my son's desire to get into the water and having to tell him over and over that he couldn't. Before we even got to the beach I was feeling so sad for him that I was thinking maybe we should just cancel the trip.<br /><br />Here is the wonderful lesson that I learned from my son. As we went out to the man-made beach side of the lake, he was super excited! He knew he couldn't go into the water, but he didn't care, he was just glad to be there. As I watched him walk along the shore picking up seashells and skipping rocks, all I could see on his little face was peace, joy, happiness and contentment. Wow!! Just like that I saw what the LORD meant in Matthew 18:2-4:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">"And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the </span> <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, </span> <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Except ye be converted, and become as little children, </span> <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.</span> <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, </span> <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.</span>"<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">My son didn't care that something unexpected happened that altered his initial plans of swimming and splashing around in the water, he was just happy to be there with his family. He was happy to be at the lake and enjoyed the moment he was in. He found joy in his present condition and he NEVER complained. I was so grateful for this moment and I almost cried as I watched him play and I thanked the LORD for that sweet lesson. I pray that I will always have fond memories of his <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">"chicken wing"</span> that's what he called his broke arm. The LORD says in Nehemiah 8:10<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">"...for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength."</span><br /><br />Father, I am so thankful for the joy that you have given me in Christ Jesus, no matter what the situation is, there is joy to be found in your Son. Amen<br /><br />Friends I pray that in whatever situation you are in your life today that there is an abundance of joy and peace. If you find yourself in a place of hopelessness or despair try to remember the "chicken wing" and the little lesson from a child. The LORD is faithful and he will not suffer you to be tempted above that you are able and He will with the temptation make away of escape that you will be able to bear it ( 1Corinthians 10:13.)<br /><br />Blessings my friends in Christ and may the LORD richly bless you with all spiritual blessings that can be found in Christ Jesus our LORD.<br /><br />AMEN!!!!<br /></div></div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-88930626453088059632010-11-02T21:35:00.000-07:002010-11-02T22:27:01.262-07:00For The Joy!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KZd1m3Gl-Hj_aw1QOcCYq9v7Ozir5Gyvgr3du6o_R2Rj2ck1PrZaH5fkFBGGzxtZrq3MKKF0xJIo5K5-gjoxvi2urzusYRcz-Yn7Qv64UGArQZyQAgRlO4ok8270_wIrAFj3IiUQ2zYr/s1600/Treat+Boxes+%26+Gifts+120.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534824480016506626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KZd1m3Gl-Hj_aw1QOcCYq9v7Ozir5Gyvgr3du6o_R2Rj2ck1PrZaH5fkFBGGzxtZrq3MKKF0xJIo5K5-gjoxvi2urzusYRcz-Yn7Qv64UGArQZyQAgRlO4ok8270_wIrAFj3IiUQ2zYr/s320/Treat+Boxes+%26+Gifts+120.jpg" /></a><br /><div align="center"><strong><em>"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."</em></strong></div><br /><br /><div align="center">Hebrews 12:2</div><br /><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><br /><div align="left">This passage of scripture has been such a joy to me, I realized that the joy that was set before the cross was ME...it was YOU! The LORD of glory endured the agony of the cross for me, He endured the shame of the cross <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">for</span> me and HE did it all with JOY!! O what great Love the Father has for us. I am in awe at that passage of scripture when I reflect on how I whine and complain over such trivial trials. I want so very much to learn how to count the cost in my life and to know that everything I go through in the name of Christ is worth it all. My prayer is that the LORD would always restore unto me the joy of my salvation and that the Holy Spirit would daily quicken the new man within me to see the joy in life.</div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">I want to exhort you today to live in the joy of the LORD, to trust in that joy which is the Love of Christ towards us. We are His workmanship, He calls us friend and HE is the Bishop and Shepherd of our souls. With such great omnipotence in our life, a GOD who is with us at all times </div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">and never leaves us, how could we ever feel trodden under foot. Let us praise GOD, who's mercy and grace is towards us. Let us walk worthy of the price that was paid for our souls and live always in the newness of life. Imagine each new day bringing great and precious promises and each new day bringing a gift of Fresh Mercies from our LORD.</div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"><em><strong>"But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">long suffering</span>, and plenteous in mercy and truth."</strong></em> Psalms 86:15<br /></div><br /><br /><p>Let us continue on each and every day remembering that we are the joy and that one day we will sit in the presence of the LORD by the throne where CHRIST is seated.</p><br /><p>GLORY HALLELUJAH and AMEN!!<br /></p>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-10315998138150624662010-06-28T22:29:00.000-07:002010-06-28T22:46:50.470-07:00Season's of Change<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkAz8K5x7jjsYKFhX0LhTMW9YPJ1RgC4Iwy48Hdk43RLuz2ilocBl_oQfYK3SuGnOP5wVgXkv1mJmozNiDRtJobqVOV32mXTwoGRUWcudAkr8WZE024figFvIep4dOmpHsfahem7iyI9DP/s1600/HPIM1025_0057_057.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488065560381846754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkAz8K5x7jjsYKFhX0LhTMW9YPJ1RgC4Iwy48Hdk43RLuz2ilocBl_oQfYK3SuGnOP5wVgXkv1mJmozNiDRtJobqVOV32mXTwoGRUWcudAkr8WZE024figFvIep4dOmpHsfahem7iyI9DP/s320/HPIM1025_0057_057.jpg" /></a> <div></div><div align="center"><em><strong>"A friend loveth at all times, </strong></em></div><div align="center"><em><strong>and a brother is born for adversity."</strong></em></div><div align="center">Proverbs 17:17</div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div>We all go through these seasons of loves and losses, happiness and sadness, gloomy days and days of sunshine so bright you can hardly see. Change is good; changes have away of proving who we really are. Friendships go through pains of change, as well as marriages and families, but it is necessary to show through it all who we really are in each relationship. As children of the KING we are commanded to LOVE one another as HE without partiality LOVED us. This is not an impossible feat, sometimes it may seem so but we must reach a higher level of understanding with the LORD in order to experience and give this supernatural unconditional love. When you think of the word Super you think of something that is big and extreme. When you combine that with supernatural you get something big, extreme and out of this world. That’s the kind of LOVE we need.<br /><br />This LOVE looks past the quirky and irksome manners of our companions to see who they really are. This LOVE would help us to see clearly to love unconditionally beyond all the ugly stuff. As I write this I’m thinking to myself, how can I see clearly? The LORD let me remember something as I was listening to some very beautiful music, I began to reminisce on times gone by, when feelings of love were very apparent and I remembered that we don’t wrestle against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers and spiritual wickedness in high places. This apparent spiritual wickedness is not the people I know and love and have loved. I remembered all of the good and sweet and gentle times. The times of refreshing and comforting in times of need, and as I sat back to think, tears welled in my eyes over the sadness I felt for the deception that was in my own heart, yet I rejoiced in the truth that the HOLY SPIRIT imparted unto me because my spirit was ready to receive it. I have gained many friends in this world and by the Grace of GOD I pray that I will not loose a single one.<br /><br />There are Season’s of change let us embrace the change and learn from it, it may cause us to become a better friend than we ever were before.<br /><br />Hallelujah and Glory to the LAMB of GOD!!!!</div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-35523582963586695392010-05-16T16:25:00.000-07:002010-05-16T17:01:48.442-07:00Filled To The Brim<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi51O52UPJ_VNYlFwQj-NqZURUhojJfV_bh1yGDvu8nHsi5BvX7npimrU8JVJoN40LaibmIQ7ydR0Pt68hBvz5mpsdw3EXidhByw0UK7fcx-i1sihQBJodwh7yv6N5i10Ds6RWp1B1cWxfE/s1600/waterpot.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 145px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 108px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472014483238721042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi51O52UPJ_VNYlFwQj-NqZURUhojJfV_bh1yGDvu8nHsi5BvX7npimrU8JVJoN40LaibmIQ7ydR0Pt68hBvz5mpsdw3EXidhByw0UK7fcx-i1sihQBJodwh7yv6N5i10Ds6RWp1B1cWxfE/s320/waterpot.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><em><strong></strong></em><br /><br /><br /><em><strong></strong></em><br /><br /><em><strong>"Jesus saith unto them, Fill the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">waterpots</span> with water. And they filled them up to the brim."</strong></em> John 2:7<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="color:#330000;">Filled To The Brim</span></strong><br /></div><p></p><p></p><div align="left">In the first miracle account in the Gospel of John, there was a marriage reception and according to the scripture they ran out of wine. As the account goes, the LORD told the servants to fill up the six waterpots of stone ( about nine gallons each ) with water. Here is the part that struck me as amazing, I’m not sure if the servants new that they were in the presence of the creator, but with flawless expectations they filled the pots to the BRIM! Wow! When I read this passage (for probably the 100<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> time or more) , it was like a new inspiration struck me, what ever they where expecting they wanted a lot of it. I know that this was the beginning of miracles but I wonder if they had any idea what to expect. This new application just gave me a desire to expect an abundance of promises from GOD. From this passage I am encouraged to be prompt in my obedience to Christ even when the request may seem a little strange, because HE’s about to do something WONDERFUL!! Can you imagine how they would have felt if they only filled the containers half full and only got half the blessings. That would have been an </div><div align="left">"Aw Man!" moment.<br /><br />LORD thank you so much for your ever Living Word, that continues to grow in it’s meaning as we continue to grow in you.<br /><br />So Remember ladies, get out those waterpots and fill it to the brim and watch the LORD change it into something GREAT!!!!!<br /><br />Here’s a challenge, if you join up to follow my site and tell me what you want the LORD to fill up your waterpot with I’ll send you a surprise. </div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-45363590387689097772010-05-15T16:04:00.000-07:002010-05-15T16:11:43.003-07:00A Mothers WishHello Ladies and a belated Happy Mothers Day!!! But then everyday is Mothers day, because every day we are mothers. Some of you may have read my poem already as I posted it with my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Homeschool</span> Group and also to other family and friends but just wanted to post it on my blog as well. You would not believe what a pain it is to try and recover lost passwords and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">logins</span>, but YEAH!! I have finally done it. So here's my poem I pray that it will be a blessings and I think universally for Christian moms this poem is true:<br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;">A Mothers Wish</span></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">We have a wish that we wish for you and often it’s in prayer,<br />We wish that we could impart to you the Love we love to share<br />From the moment you were babies and we held you in our arms<br />And realized how special you were and how blessed it was be a mom<br />We wish that we could take you back to the first day that we met<br />And tell you all the many dreams we’<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ve</span> dreamed for you but yet,<br />It’s not about the past you see it’s about renewed chances<br />Sometimes we yell or scream or stomp and you may give us peevish glances<br />But we know that you know we love you and we can start over again,<br />To build upon the relationship that started the day we held your tiny hands.<br />A mothers love is special, the LORD taught us from the start,<br />He taught us how to love a perfect stranger and how to love you from our hearts.<br />Its crunch time now and you’<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">ve</span> grown up quite fast, even faster than we’d dreamed<br />And we know that this world would love to devour you<br />So we try to warn you of Satan’s schemes.<br />We fail sometimes, no probably very often but our love for you is true and all we’<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">ve</span> wanted from you all our lives is for you to do the things GOD told us to tell you.<br /><br />Deuteronomy Chapter 6 tells us:<br /><br />Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:<br />And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.<br />And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:<br />And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">sittest</span> in thine house, and when thou <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">walkest</span> by the way, and when thou <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">liest</span> down, and when thou <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">risest</span> up.<br />And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">frontlets</span> between thine eyes.<br />And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.<br /><br />Now these are the words we’<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">ve</span> tried to live by and to instruct you your hold life through. It <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">doesn</span>’t matter how old you get we are still responsible for you.<br /><br />Now the LORD told us that if we would train you up in the way that you should go<br />That once you are old you would not depart so now all we can do it sit back and watch as you continue to grow.<br /><br />These are wishes that we wish for you. That you would grow up in the ways of the LORD and shun the wickedness of this world and to live in peace and safety in the promises of GOD.<br /><br />So remember the sayings that mommy knows best and yes we have eye’s in the back of our heads, it’s called discernment and it’s a special gift that was especially designed for us by the Master’s Hand.<br /><br />We love you dear children and we just wanted to say that as we go through life and many more mothers days, we wish you all these wishes and a wonderful blessed life too and we pray with all our hearts you will wish these wishes too.</div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-30412198542902286912010-04-28T21:05:00.001-07:002010-04-29T20:31:15.845-07:00Too LongIt's seems like it has been forever since I posted, but so many things have been going on and to be honest I had a hard time trying to get my password and log in information. It was a nightmare. I think I have a good memory but I am sadly mistaken. Because my time is so short and so precious to me finding the time to track down my log in information was the lowest on my priorty list. I've had so many things I wanted to post and talk about but I think I have it all straightened out now so I'll try and keep current on my posting.A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-66135892299622831932009-10-22T22:16:00.000-07:002009-10-22T22:43:06.246-07:00Be Still My Soul<div align="center"><br /><br />Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side.</div><div align="center">Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain.</div><div align="center">Leave to thy God to order and provide;</div><div align="center">In every change, He faithful will remain.</div><div align="center">Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend</div><div align="center">Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.</div><br />What a beautiful song. Why do we suffer so needlessly when we have a Heavenly Father on our side who will carry us all the way from here to eternity. How little we value the LOVE of GOD and it’s endless worth. I am so thankful that the LORD is showing through all of my trials in life, that the only thing that matters is that HE loves me and HE wants me to trust HIM with all of my being. I’m learning…it’s a slow process but I’m learning. There’s seems to be daily trials and moment by moment issues that try our faith. Sometimes big and sometimes small. There are also those little nipping ankle biters that seem to go along nagging at the coat tails of our patients. But I am learning to Be Still and know that GOD is GOD all by HIMSELF and HE does not need my help to solve my problems. HE requires my obedience to prayerfully make the right choices.<br />I can not say that all of my choices are perfect, but I will say that the choices I make always have a consciousness towards GOD whether good or bad, the LORD is on my mind. I am so grateful that the LORD loves me so much that HE will not allow me to sin without rebuke, and not trusting HIM in my darkest hours is sin. King David recorded his thoughts on this matter in Psalm 77:7-10:<br /><br /><strong>7 Will the Lord cast off for ever? and will he be favourable no more?<br />8 Is his mercy clean gone for ever? doth his promise fail for evermore?<br />9 Hath God forgotten to be gracious? hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies? Selah.<br />10 And I said, This is my infirmity: but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High.</strong><br /><br />David asks all of these questions to himself and in pain he knows the answers. This was David’s infirmity, not having the experience of these blessings at that moment and he knows that his salvation is only going to come from the LORD. But David goes on to say, “but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High. Can we say that today? In our darkest hour or even our dimmest day, that even though I don’t see the redemption of the LORD, I know that it is nigh, and I will remember the right hand of the <strong>MOST HIGH</strong>.<br />I leave you with 1 Peter 5:10 :<br /><br /><strong>“But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”</strong><br /><br />I pray that today you walk in the GRACE of GOD. AMENA Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-68831836128551819102009-09-17T17:31:00.000-07:002009-09-17T22:06:13.608-07:00The Fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9q51AftYD4O4LRP4S-MFfexgs3Q4r7nqQ_QPSx_cL6hYRPKkvLcVFVnL5br-AQjcoSXeSIgHSwS_EPHUBx7Tp1zJAwlCmAP0t3zhdaMpuj901hufDWPAos3dFBFoBuAHiFG_zqXA_k2v/s1600-h/Psalm+51+10.png"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 207px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382646715501350594" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9q51AftYD4O4LRP4S-MFfexgs3Q4r7nqQ_QPSx_cL6hYRPKkvLcVFVnL5br-AQjcoSXeSIgHSwS_EPHUBx7Tp1zJAwlCmAP0t3zhdaMpuj901hufDWPAos3dFBFoBuAHiFG_zqXA_k2v/s320/Psalm+51+10.png" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /><div><br />'The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility."</div><div></div><div>Proverbs 15:33 </div><div> </div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:180%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:180%;">D</span>id you know that a soft answer will turn away wrath? Did you know that correction is grievous to a person that is forsaking the way of GOD? How about, a merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance or a word spoken in due season is good! All of these and so many more instructions for a successful life can be found in this short 33 verse proverb. I have been reading a Proverb a day for several years but this year, I have done it off and on, so when I read Proverbs 15 this week, it was if I had read it for the first time. If we could only live as the LORD commands, we could have such rich and free lives. If you haven’t read Proverbs 15 lately I would encourage you to read this Proverb TODAY!!! The Proverb tells us everything to do that our carnal nature would rather us not do, such as: Giving a soft answer in an angry situation, and you may ask, “why would I want to do that…I’m mad!!” well because, soft answers turn away wrath and grievous words or words of contention, stir up anger. GOD’s word is so practical for living, if we would adhere to it, but GOD’s instructions are so contrary to what our flesh want’s to do. We want to get even, have the last sarcastic remark and we just don’t want to hear or heed wise counsel. Did you know that this Proverb says that he that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding. Why won’t we just listen? Well the only explanation that I can think of is that we just want to be unhappy and in a state of confusion and turmoil all of the time. Some people may feel that The Word of GOD is outdated; that it’s just not practical for today. When we refuse to heed GOD’s instruction, He is far from us. The Word of GOD says, “The LORD is far from the wicked; but He heareth the prayer of the righteous.” It’s all here packed into one short but powerful Proverb. If we could just put into practice all of these intructions from the LORD, He would consider us a wise person. Many times in order to reach such a level of wisdom and contentment we will be required to become humble. The verse I used to title this message says, : “The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.” And when you really meditate on that verse in comparison to the Proverb as whole you will see that it takes humility to hold your tongue, or to accept reproof, correction and instruction. It takes humility to accept being poor in a worldly since and rejoice in being rich in the LORD. I truly appreciate the wisdom of Solomon for writing these inspired Words by GOD. I am sure that many of these wisdoms where probably lived out in his own life making this Proverb beautiful, heartfelt and strong. </div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong>W</strong></span>hatever state that you are in right now, this Proverb will speak to it. If we can just get to a level of understanding and trust in the LORD we would need less secular counselors and less medicating drugs. Instead of drowning out the problem, we can face it like soldiers of the Cross. I encourage you today to live in the wisdom of the LORD and trust fully in Him. As I have said before and will again many times over, that there may be times that you must Trust Him until it Hurts!!! </div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong>I</strong></span> pray GOD’s blessings upon you and that the SON of Righteousness Shine on you this day!!!</div><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-11466116102077625262009-09-14T03:47:00.000-07:002009-09-14T04:19:53.060-07:00Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands. Proverbs 14:1<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK5wwhBkFrBVhxPCrGI4w5a23J7zGfsJhhL-6Ag_O3nbHzaanpWIweyOV7NjX9adOMYG5WGv3OQBhvJxV7h5xcoQuNdCYEFAF8LcrhWe5QXpQFRAWCQn1jnAy8WlscXdxFWRBWom9tADwW/s1600-h/Psalm+127+1.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381281208938547714" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 207px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK5wwhBkFrBVhxPCrGI4w5a23J7zGfsJhhL-6Ag_O3nbHzaanpWIweyOV7NjX9adOMYG5WGv3OQBhvJxV7h5xcoQuNdCYEFAF8LcrhWe5QXpQFRAWCQn1jnAy8WlscXdxFWRBWom9tADwW/s320/Psalm+127+1.png" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDysKONF5gG4Z4MjA8HHM0Nhno3VZW2Nn1-FgTe_YgEBPUaano1-tm-RddQMQns0u5YJNwEMh9_2EHFBVGDpBAa3mouiARaAvwsa9NZpu80YCVX7s9dEsYiknWnytO8KLMjGhnarKjcLQK/s1600-h/Tammart+Fruit+of+the+Spirit.jpg"></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>What a scripture to be faced with in the morning after a bout of self pity and despair concerning my role as Mother, Wife, Teacher, Financier and any other title that could place upon ourselves. Sometimes as moms we tend to gather so many jobs and hoard them as our own not realizing that we leave so many needful things unattended. Prayer is essential, bible reading is essential, praising your children is essential, and seeking the face of the LORD in every aspect of our day is a MUST!! How can we even survive one successful day (keyword successful) without the LORD? I’m sure that at the end of the day we can all fall back in our chair (which is where I spend a great deal of my time) and say, well that’s a wrap, I made it through this day unscathed. But the question is what type of day was it? Was it wrought with fury and hardship? Did you make it by the skin of your might or by the power of the LORDS hand? Did you successfully pass the tests that were put before you or did you even notice them. Sometimes we are so oblivious to the lessons to be learned because we are so caught up in our AGENDA (yuck!!) LORD please deliver me from not seeing your face and your Will in every situation of my life. Please help me to pass the tests of life or at lease acknowledge them. Please help me at every moment not cease to follow your will in ever situation or at least acknowledge your Will. Yes, every wise woman does build her house, and hopefully it will be built upon the precepts of GOD’S word. Yes, the foolish plucketh it down and that with her own hands. I believe that I have on many occasions damaged the structure of my home, but by GOD’S grace not the foundation, for it is firm and sure and not even the gates of Hell can prevail against it. However; situations that are in my control cause me to falter in the area of maintaining my keep (castle part: a stronghold, or the innermost fortified part of a castle) I pray that as we go forward today that we will be the best wife and mother and sentinel of our home. GOD will protect us from every foe, but we must not allow the foe entrance. I thank the LORD for His ever watchful eye especially upon the reigns of my heart and I pray that we all walk forth in Love and Charity, holding forth the Words of Truth.</div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-53776647533500659432009-03-22T22:02:00.000-07:002009-03-23T17:33:44.839-07:00Too Full<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5eDJfTMd59uIKjmYCF4M-x5z1WgF4SLHnN7KnVH4fGvmcZXATjf1X_0rlHCeqZukKB3FqThdT2SOk6IIYbJR2s7zdAe1W5KmX60dNYKmM8Vopaj9cNWwDTO8IEDyuGC3Ue4-4TTETkq_T/s1600-h/Picture+001.jpg"></a><div></div><div>Have you ever enjoyed a really good meal and you were so stuffed you felt as though you would burst but you just wanted one more bite. Well that is how I felt after a week long Church Revival. One night in particular the LORD blessed me beyond measure. I was so filled by the power of the Holy Spirit that I felt like I was going to burst but I wanted some more. When I got home I just <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">didn</span>’t know what to do with myself. I must have talked my husbands left ear off (while we were driving home) as I brimmed with excitement over the revelations that the LORD had given me concerning a Christian’s walk and mine in particular. Once home I did my nightly tasks, still thinking about the Spirit-filled message I had heard and actually <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">didn</span>’t want it to end. I thought I’d sit down and do a bit of crafting but as I sat down and tried to think of something to do. Once again I was drawn to the LORD so strongly that I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">couldn</span>’t dare diminish my evening by doing a craft. I sat there and began worshipping the LORD again. The lyrics came to my mind of, "I Can Only Imagine" by Mercy Me and I just felt so <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">raptured</span> away by the thought that one day I would actually be able to see my Savior face to face:<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><strong>Surrounded by Your glory, </strong></div><div align="center"><strong>what will my heart feel</strong></div><div align="center"><strong>Will I dance for you Jesus </strong></div><div align="center"><strong>or in awe of you be still</strong></div><div align="center"><strong>Will I stand in your presence </strong></div><div align="center"><strong>or to my knees will I fall</strong></div><div align="center"><strong>Will I sing hallelujah, </strong></div><div align="center"><strong>will I be able to speak at all<br />I can only imagine </strong></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><br /></div></strong><br /><div align="left">I want so much for my life to be lived worthy of the blood that was shed for my soul and I want so much to be a reflection of the Gospel of Christ. Once dead in sin and now risen to a newness of life in Christ Jesus. One great thing that was emphasized at the Revival meetings is that GOD IS ABLE. I looked up the phrase God is able and once again my soul leaped for joy at the scriptures that held such wonderful promises. I will share a few with you:<br /><br />The Lord is able to deliver – Daniel 3:17<br />The Lord is able to build you up – Act 20:32<br />God is able to make you stand – Romans 14:4<br />God is able to make all grace abound - 2 Corinthians 9:8<br />HE is able to keep you from falling – Jude 1:24<br /><br />We serve a GOD who is able to do far exceeding above what we can even ask or think. I am so thankful that the LORD saw fit to grant me repentance and an opportunity serve Him.<br /><br />My last thought for this message is that of prayer. One night the Pastor preached on a very important aspect of a Christian’s life that I fear has all too often been lacking in my life and that is of prayer. I know that prayer is what strengthens our Spiritual armor against the enemies of Hell and it is our strongest connection to the LORD. Prayer is not what the flesh desires; the flesh does not like it when we get down on our knees to pray. That is why we must struggle to crucify this wicked flesh and bring it under subjection to the Will of the LORD. I must say I have been revived and I pray that the effects of this Revival will keep me burning for awhile until the next Revival. Correction, we don’t have to wait for a revival to come to town, we can always have the embers of our heart rekindle when we talk with the LORD by the way…Quickly read <strong>Luke 24:32</strong> and you’ll be blessed!<br /><br />Thanks for Listening and Love you all in Christ.<br /><br />Simply Trusting<br />Sister Tammy</div></div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-28589298234029897442009-02-09T22:02:00.001-08:002009-02-09T22:15:54.810-08:00UNITY<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyBENa78E0L56gTrKGJAOFMijAAGIOgc8ZuWrUf3F1ryFf5LF5vUXZQRt8dT0dn5JMP4xfmTjRKxFe-tiQwVItAGmWISiFXWQrSzgclEk8b_aVUc2q8xxG4M0xfvwLqZ8OWVfIIs579fYP/s1600-h/random+pics+007.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301045495763016066" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyBENa78E0L56gTrKGJAOFMijAAGIOgc8ZuWrUf3F1ryFf5LF5vUXZQRt8dT0dn5JMP4xfmTjRKxFe-tiQwVItAGmWISiFXWQrSzgclEk8b_aVUc2q8xxG4M0xfvwLqZ8OWVfIIs579fYP/s320/random+pics+007.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I apologize for not writing sooner, the spirit was definitely willing but the flesh was full of excuses. I will not beleaguer this point for the LORD has put something on my heart to write.<br /><br />I want to talk about a thing that has always been near and dear to my heart and that is UNITY. Did you know that this word is mentioned (as far as I can see and you can check me on this) three (3) times in the bible?<br /><br />Psalms 133:1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!<br /><br />Ephesians 4:3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.<br /><br />Ephesians 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">fulness</span> of Christ:<br /><br />The word <em>unity</em> spoken of is in reference to: The brethren, the unity of the bond of peace, and the unity of faith. This particular <strong>unity</strong> that the Word of God is speaking of cannot be had without Our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST. There are many types unified fronts today in our world and society but they do not have the fullness of Christ and I am speaking of the Unity in Christ. When the brethren dwell together in unity the bible says, it is good and pleasant. Therefore according to Ephesians 4:3 we must do something, we must ENDEAVOUR to keep this unity. We must acknowledge that being in unity with Christ is a growing process as Ephesians 4:13 says, <strong>til we all come in the unity of faith</strong>. This phrase tells me that we must continue to strive to come to this unity of faith. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Jamieson</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Fausset</span>, Brown Commentary says, “Until we arrive all of us at the unity."<br /><br />I am encouraged by the scriptures because many times I see the body of Christ in a fractured state and not united, but according to the scriptures <strong>all</strong> is not lost because if we truly are in Christ we will <strong>all</strong> one day be united together with the LORD. Ephesians 4:13 also tells us <em>that as we are coming to the unity of the faith that we must also come to the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, and unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.</em> We should all have the knowledge of Christ through His Gospel. Ephesians 3:19 says, “<em>And to know the love of Christ, which <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">passeth</span> knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">fulness</span> of God</em>.” When we know the love of Christ who for the joy that was set before Him endured the Cross, we should also, for the joy that is set before us endure our crosses. The apostle Paul is a wonderful example of someone who <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">strived</span> to attain to this perfection. Let us look at what Paul says about him striving after Christ: </div><div><br />Philippians 3:12 says: “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect…”<br /><br />Philippians 3:13 says: “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended…” </div><div><br />Paul recognized his limitations in the flesh but he never used that as an excuse not to strive for perfection in Christ. Let us look at these two scriptures in their entirety:<br /><br />Philippians 3:12 <strong>Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.<br /><br /></strong>Philippians 3:13 <strong>Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,<br /></strong>Philippians 3:14 <strong>I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.<br /></strong><br />Beloved in Christ, I rejoice in the fact that even though I have not apprehended all that there is to apprehend in Christ, I have been apprehended of him. In other words, even if I fail to be united with all of my brothers and sisters in Christ my continued effort is to continue to strive for unity. The more we know Christ and the closer we draw ourselves to Him, we should in like manner desire to draw ourselves closer to the body of Christ and all Saints are part of His body (one body.)<br /><br />Lastly as I was studying Philippians 3:12 my eyes were drawn to the last part of the verse which says, “I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” I looked up the word apprehended in the dictionary and this is what it said: </div><div><br /><strong>Arrest somebody:</strong> to put somebody suspected of wrongdoing into legal custody.<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">(Encarta ® World English Dictionary © & (P) 1998-2004 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.</span>)</div><div><br />I am so blessed to have been apprehended of Christ, because I was somebody caught in wrongdoing and now I am in the legal custody of Christ and I have been assured through scripture that He will never let me go. AMEN!!!!!<br /><br />I pray this epistle of love was a blessing and received in the love and mind of Christ in which it was intended.<br /><br />Blessings and as always,<br />Simply Trusting </div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-24136334542869625492008-12-17T05:57:00.000-08:002008-12-17T06:05:31.780-08:00How's About A Smile<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhulwFNFdIlDy-xQZlaWT2nhpeFk_lAd9C9shiKnUe26L4NL2fcVdhQikB6uLuNDEz05Y7DSq5resuvl3saFBPP1YSvCq4k_HRsTvuqW4LXfwxV-8vIOa-jEDfyLLoqPC5Kqi5gv4td1scU/s1600-h/Flamingo-60.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280759220410438498" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 221px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 186px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhulwFNFdIlDy-xQZlaWT2nhpeFk_lAd9C9shiKnUe26L4NL2fcVdhQikB6uLuNDEz05Y7DSq5resuvl3saFBPP1YSvCq4k_HRsTvuqW4LXfwxV-8vIOa-jEDfyLLoqPC5Kqi5gv4td1scU/s320/Flamingo-60.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I received a phone call from my daughter yesterday and she asked me an exciting question. She said have you ever just picked your bible up and been excited and overjoyed that you had it. And then I received a sweet email from my sister this morning and it was about Natural Highs (things that make you happy or make you smile.) In this world filled with so much ungodliness sometimes you find so little to smile about and I am so grateful for people such as my daughter and my sister who have the ability to make me smile with such beautiful thoughts. I was especially overjoyed by my daughter who at twenty-two years of age has a love for the Word of GOD! I knew exactly what she meant because there have been times when I have picked up my bible embraced it and realized I was actually holding the WORDS of GOD! What a powerful thought and most importantly you have to know what is in the bible in order to be excited about it and by GOD’s grace my daughter knows what’s inside it and appreciates it and so do I. I pray that you all have people in your lives that make you smile and even laugh. Yesterday I went to pick up one of my wee little Sisters-in-Christ to take her and my son to a book club party and when I drove up she had on reindeer antlers and a reindeer nose that lit up! I laughed so hard I was revived. Earlier that morning I was feeling rather out of sorts and a tad bit tired and just plain Blah! But my little friend gave me the boost I needed to get revived and I must say it was much healthier than caffeine.<br /><br />Let us rejoice in the LORD always, Let us be glad that this is the day that the LORD has made. Let us be satisfied with all the goodness of GOD and all the blessings that the righteous receive of HIM.<br /><br /><strong>“O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.”</strong><br /><em>Psalms 90:14</em><br /><br />Be Blessed and Always Trusting,<br />Tammy Martinez </div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-14608345407968097002008-12-08T10:02:00.000-08:002008-12-08T21:27:24.875-08:00When Our Faith Fails<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgi_gCn-I0vTcyoYlkrele_z7CzecDBJSTEvJ_i5mRZW2WFD3lkElsAeR_2urGWjBlnC5tzmSp_7vPKrky9nOKl25q32TS-iyK7mEfM9cQxwVv6e71vyjtCbo8mwsBbd_fa53ay9NKFTrM/s1600-h/Isaiah4110.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277657640377778498" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 207px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgi_gCn-I0vTcyoYlkrele_z7CzecDBJSTEvJ_i5mRZW2WFD3lkElsAeR_2urGWjBlnC5tzmSp_7vPKrky9nOKl25q32TS-iyK7mEfM9cQxwVv6e71vyjtCbo8mwsBbd_fa53ay9NKFTrM/s320/Isaiah4110.png" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I was put in remembrance this morning of GOD’s unwavering faithfulness and our frailties as I read in GOD’s word. David says in Psalms 31:22:<br /><br /><strong><em>“For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplications when I cried unto thee.”</em></strong><br /><strong><em></em></strong><br />I believe that many of us have had points in our lives that in our haste we felt as though the LORD had not heard our cry or our supplications. We may have even felt that the LORD was not concerned about our tumultuous situations. David says that in his haste, he felt that the LORD did not see him in his troubles; he said that he felt as though he was cut off before the eyes of GOD, that HE did not see him. In all of this I stand amazed at the Great Mercies of GOD. We serve such an Awesome savior who does not always take offence at our distrusting nature and he blesses us any way. David says, “nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplications when I cried unto thee.” I am so happy that we serve a GOD that will look beyond our faults and take care of our needs. I don’t believe that Bro. David condoned having a fretful spirit but sometimes in our deep distresses we can waiver in our faith towards GOD. Fear can be a very captivating thing and sometimes we forget what type of GOD we serve, but nevertheless HE is the GREAT and MIGHTY GOD, the KING of GLORY. David finishing off the psalms by stating in verses 23and 24:<br /><br /><strong><em>“O love the LORD, all ye his saints: for the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer. Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.” </em></strong><br /><strong><em><br /></em></strong>I just want to encourage you this morning to remember that GOD has not forgotten His children and he hears EVERY cry. We serve a GOD that preserves the faithful, who rewards the proud doer and strengthens the heart of all those who hope in HIM!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ffffff;"><strong>PRAISE GOD and have a Blessed Week!</strong><br /></span></span><br />Simply Trusting in Hope,<br />Tammy Martinez</div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-60604071449015505582008-11-27T22:15:00.001-08:002008-11-27T22:23:28.861-08:0050/20 Vision<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg65o9MzDwEoGGW8-6495h7OCtiJoW59uRaacvK9MctBBP2zPHnCfbU7LRv-poWNQH3KTKN3E6sIheULYwpdyDfeD1DELzpLyXHNs9ukDZHpaVzEEBxQ6tXO23MlUtGxx2Z4FLqRCbrZwe3/s1600-h/Cloud+02a.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273590142204402546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 155px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg65o9MzDwEoGGW8-6495h7OCtiJoW59uRaacvK9MctBBP2zPHnCfbU7LRv-poWNQH3KTKN3E6sIheULYwpdyDfeD1DELzpLyXHNs9ukDZHpaVzEEBxQ6tXO23MlUtGxx2Z4FLqRCbrZwe3/s320/Cloud+02a.jpg" border="0" /></a> <div><div><div>It has been very busy around my camp, but rest assured the LORD has been foremost on my mind. I do apologize for the delay in my writing and it is amazing just when you think no one cares the LORD always sends that special “one” to s<img class="gl_photo" alt="Add Image" src="http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif" border="0" />ay, “hey, I haven’t heard from you lately and I’m hungry,” and with that loving word, I am humbled.<br /><br />As we celebrate Thanksgiving, I must stop and reflect on all the wonderful icings on the many cakes that the LORD blesses me with on a daily basis. We should never take for granted the Family, Friends and even Foes that the LORD puts in our paths of life. The LORD has diligently placed them in our lives for a reason and for a purpose. Our family and friends keep us grounded and our enemies keep us on our knees. I am so thankful for everyone that has entered into my life whether they be a rose or a thorn, I have been continually blessed. Thank You LORD for all of your blessings and for EVERYTHING that you have allowed to enter into my life. I pray that as we press forward to the upcoming year that we may all grab a strong hold of the vision that the LORD has set before us. HE is a GOD of wonder and miracles, HE is a GOD of Might and Power, HE is a GOD that gives good gifts to His children when they ask, and HE is a GOD who hears our prayers. WE serve a GOD that transcends the wisdom and knowledge of this world and with this knowledge, we have been blessed beyond belief.<br /><br />I love the Character of Joseph of the Old Testament; I believe that he had such an understanding heart towards GOD, that as you notice in scripture, he never complained during His captivity after being betrayed by his jealous brothers. Knowing all the while that he was an innocent man endured with patients the trials that were set before him. There is one thing that I took away from this whole account and I will share it with you. It is the ability to have 50/20 vision, that is Deuteronomy 50:20, which reads:<br /><br />“But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.”<br /><br />What a vision of the future, and a vision of hope and most importantly that GOD has EVERYTHING under control. The world and even misguided friends may desire harmful things to happen to you because of jealousy, likes Josephs older brothers. But that is perfectly okay, because GOD will bring to pass good things, not only to you but possibly to many more people than yourself.<br /><br />I challenge you to read the account of Joseph beginning in Genesis 37 when we enter his life at tender young age of 17. I caution you this, that as you read, put on the mind of Christ and lean not unto your own understanding. I have heard many a preacher say terrible things against this blessed man of GOD. They used terms such as spoiled, tattle-tail and I digress to say more as it is vexing to my spirit that we would dare to judge such a righteous young man according to our own understanding. That is why Proverbs 3:5 clearly says, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” I’m sure that as you read this account in the Spirit of GOD, you will be encouraged to stay in the battle and to let HIM take care of the foes and trials in your life and like Joseph you will be able to continually say that, “GOD meant it unto me for GOOD!!“ GOD Bless you and may you continue to grow in the wisdom of the LORD. </div></div></div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-50760151137679509302008-11-18T19:58:00.000-08:002008-11-19T21:56:18.106-08:00It's All About The Position Of The Sun<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAQ32I_ccKDhKRHqDPlNYeviCoyA4RO-lVOBS-pn50_y03EWtnGZV-cEd8eQWxHz6FjlGlY3nsCGRiKzhfP6ljYjC3e-djVURz2TncmZ9IGcRyw0PVf3qW6ryQ6DutWB7r_EvmJzTYHzgR/s1600-h/random+pics+014.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270614241659552578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 263px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 197px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAQ32I_ccKDhKRHqDPlNYeviCoyA4RO-lVOBS-pn50_y03EWtnGZV-cEd8eQWxHz6FjlGlY3nsCGRiKzhfP6ljYjC3e-djVURz2TncmZ9IGcRyw0PVf3qW6ryQ6DutWB7r_EvmJzTYHzgR/s320/random+pics+014.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div>I was thinking about the position of the sun today and that sometimes we may not always see the sun on a cloudy day but we can rest assure that it is there. This is the way our Christian walk is sometimes, there is so much gloom and cloudiness that we can't see the SON, but we can rest assure that He is there. I read a lovely poem today by Helen Steiner Rice and it goes like this:<br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center">Life is a mixture of sunshine and rain,</div><div align="center">Laughter and pleasure, teardrops and pain,</div><div align="center">All days can't be bright but it's certainly true,</div><div align="center">There was never a cloud the sun didn't shine through</div><div align="center">So just keep on smiling, whatever betide you,</div><div align="center">Secure in the knowledge that GOD is always beside you,</div><div align="center">And you'll find when you smile, your day will be brighter</div><div align="center">And all of your burdens will seem so much lighter</div><div align="center">For each time you smile, you will find it is true</div><div align="center">Somebody, somewhere, will smile back at you,</div><div align="center">And nothing on earth can make life more worthwhile</div><div align="center">Than the sunshine and warmth of a beautiful smile.</div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="left">So where is the position of the Son in your life, please don't allow the clouds to block out the majestic rays of GOD's love and hope in your life. Smile because you'll never know what a blessing that will be to someone. I am so thankful for all of the smiles that I receive from my dear family and friends, whether it be through the phone, in person or by letter, they always make my day. So as Paul said in <strong>Philippians 4:4</strong>, <strong>" Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."<br /></strong></div><br /><div align="left">I pray the GOD of peace upon you all and may He reign in you all!!<br /><br />All To the Glory of GOD and as always,</div><div align="left">Simply Trusting, </div><div align="left">Tammy Martinez</div></div></div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-88419227578850756212008-11-15T11:40:00.000-08:002008-11-15T11:48:44.749-08:00It’s Time To Get Up!<p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiegg3aWIy-E_sdrj87bd6Hi-Y0rVlr2Vvu4eQJnlp6YZn6ForOYSJiX95BRlECgxH1IbgG1oF8-xJcnQJqGt0EV-34loPK2csqF236ql4YOZMzf4ErjqEkBomWt18IXPAnu9f3GHs-sMJ1/s1600-h/Seaworld+Trip.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268973031546383794" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 238px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 193px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiegg3aWIy-E_sdrj87bd6Hi-Y0rVlr2Vvu4eQJnlp6YZn6ForOYSJiX95BRlECgxH1IbgG1oF8-xJcnQJqGt0EV-34loPK2csqF236ql4YOZMzf4ErjqEkBomWt18IXPAnu9f3GHs-sMJ1/s320/Seaworld+Trip.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br />Well, I have had a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">roller coaster</span> week of emotional highs and then an anticlimactic fall for (I felt) absolutely know reason at all and through this the LORD showed me some wonderful truths in His WORD.<br /><br />So many times I believe we take our walk in Christ for granted and we walk about on spiritual highs with great spiritual prowess and prideful-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ness</span>; with our heads held high and our arms bristly swinging from side to side with great confidence (“ for we are the children of the king, the most high GOD, you know!”) and then without warning, we fail to see the deep pit in the road and of course with unbelief and dismay we plummet to the ground in utter disbelief, “how in the world could this have happened to me, I am so spiritually filled” we say to ourselves with an inkling of self-righteous indignation. <em>'Au <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">contraire</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">mon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">frair'</span></em>, we must suffer and glory in the lows as well as the highs.<br /><br />Although I jest a little (which is not really convenient) I want to share some scriptural nuggets and thoughts with you today from GOD’s Word. Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heart <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">faileth</span>: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.” This is the principle thing, we are to put our trust in GOD and him alone. We can be deceived by our feelings and the passions of our heart can sometimes be fleeting, being tossed to and fro. One moment your gliding on the wings of an eagle and the next thing your groveling in the dirt, but that should NEVER affect the awesome work that is continually being done in you through our LORD and SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST. I love it when David said, “The LORD will perfect that which <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">concerneth</span> me: thy mercy, O LORD, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">endureth</span> for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands.” The LORD will perfect the work that he has begun in us. I take that scripture very personal during my low periods and I will trust in His Word. As I have struggled with a few low periods this week I have also heard from some of my Sisters-In-Christ who have had low and even desperate periods in their lives this week too, but they have purposed to stay in the fight. I tell people all the time even if you do give up who are you giving up to? And even if you do give up who is there to care? I believe it is even appropriate to say that in giving up on the LORD it is a terrible sin, because in essence we are saying that His word is not true, Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” Our LORD is so compassionate and loves His children in their lowly states and he desires to lift us up by His right hand. I am encouraged today to write of His goodness and desire to lend a word of encouragement. I want to encourage you to have a merry heart today and every day for Proverbs 15:13 says, “ A merry heart <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">maketh</span> a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.” I also want to give you a good word today and ask you to stand upright in the LORD for Proverb 12:25 says, “Heaviness in the heart of man <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">maketh</span> it stoop: but a good word <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">maketh</span> it glad.” So be glad in the LORD today and do rejoice in that you are a child of the King, The Most High GOD! Amen.<br /><br />Be Blessed and Triumphantly<br />Simply Trusting,<br />Tammy MartinezA Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-27726629485767726902008-11-11T19:32:00.000-08:002008-11-11T20:01:32.626-08:00Things To Be Thankful For<p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitm97P44RXCTPqO6xEIMkvmZRV5_Fkz7ZI8tHjSSEfCq28fjmzA58KqcjVJOVgicbbPPkejq0QrP72Fp3X6T7ewz5-W-HbMuVzpaucnOR-gh-EIsgnFGrq9UQHlvqswMhbzwKlBAxRh29n/s1600-h/Cloud+02a.jpg"></a></p><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;">T</span>he good, green earth beneath our feet,</div><div align="center">The air we breathe, the food we eat,</div><div align="center">Some work to do, a goal to win,</div><div align="center">A hidden longing deep within</div><div align="center">That spurs us on to bigger things,</div><div align="center">And helps us meet what <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">each </span>day brings,</div><div align="center">All these things and many more</div><div align="center">Are things we should be thankful for...</div><div align="center">And most of all <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">our</span> thankful prayers</div><div align="center">Should rise to GOD because He cares!</div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">by Helen Steiner Rice</span></div><br /><br /><strong>" <em>And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful</em>."</strong> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Colossians</span> 3:15<br /><br />I pray that as we focus on Thanksgiving in the weeks to come that we not forget about the peace of GOD. We are commanded to let His peace rule in our hearts. We are also charged to remember that we are one body in Christ and in all of that we need to be thankful. I praise GOD for all of my brothers and sisters in Christ who walk with me as I journey through this life. I thank the LORD for each and everyone. Let us all be mindful that we are called the body of CHRIST and His death on the cross was to bring us all together in the unity of the faith.<br /><br />May GOD richly bless us all and keep us bound together in love. AMEN<br /><br />Simply Trusting,<br />Tammy MartinezA Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-78512328896486839602008-11-09T06:46:00.000-08:002008-11-09T07:10:45.205-08:00Please Join Me for BreakfastPsalms 34:8 says, “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.” <br /><br />Let us taste of the LORD this morning and see that HE is Good. Our desire every day should be to feast on the word of GOD. For Proverbs 3:6 says that we should acknowledge the LORD in all of our ways, because Proverb 3:8 says, “It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. What a blessing it is to eat of the everlasting Word of GOD. Jesus said that He is the bread of life and that if we come to Him we shall never be hungry or thirsty (John 6:35.) Finally Psalms 36:7 says,<br /><br />“How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. 8 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.<br /><br />Wow!! You can’t have a better meal than that. I pray that as you partake of your daily meals that you join the LORD for breakfast and start your day being filled abundantly with the fatness of HIS House. <br /><br />Praise GOD and have a bountiful Day!!!<br /><br />As always,<br />Simply Trusting,<br />Tammy MartinezA Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-54960993141796810782008-11-07T13:39:00.000-08:002008-11-09T20:15:11.614-08:00An Invitation To Rest<div align="left"><br />When is the last time you have experienced a true Sabbath? A time of just you and the LORD? Does this sound strange or archaic to you? To make sure that I am not being too <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">presumptuous</span> I would like to extended a "<em>Praise the LORD</em>" to those of you who actually do practice a Sabbath. I can’t remember the last time that I have practiced a Sabbath, I hope I have and maybe it just slipped my memory, but I doubt it. I will just say that as of last Sunday, November 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">nd</span> I actually rested in the LORD, all day long! It was an exciting time, one of the best days I have had with the LORD. I did'nt even plan on it in advance, I wanted the opportunity to take myself by surprise. You know how you can make big plans and then what happens? Well, they go awry of course! Well, as I said ,I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">hadn't </span>planned on it, I just did it. I started early in the morning before anyone woke up and I had a beautiful time of prayer with the LORD. I sort of felt separated from everyone, it was a strange feeling, but I later I realized it was a type of sanctification. I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">didn</span>’t quarantine myself from everyone or anything like that, I just had the mind of keeping my heart turned towards the LORD. We had services at the nursing home that Sunday and it was wonderful time of singing, preaching, praising and worshipping the LORD. When we got home, I continued my Sabbath by reading the WORD of GOD and I read and studied all day long. It was amazing, I was resting in the LORD and resting in HIS WORD. </div><p>You have know idea ( if you haven’t done it ) what the LORD will do when you yield yourself totally to HIM. I am currently writing a message that the LORD has laid on my heart and as I was continuing to write, the LORD gave me clarity of thought, he opened my understanding and my fingers could hardly keep up with my thoughts.<br /><br />Here is the Challenge, as we are beginning to start our weekend ask the LORD to give you the desire to consecrate a day to Him this coming week and see if you will not be blessed beyond measure. WARNING!!!! The Flesh and the Devil DO NOT want this happened and will do anything within their power to stop it. The flesh just wants to have fun and seek after pleasures and desire for itself and Satan, well he just plain hates our Father and detests anything as<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">sociated</span> with HIM, therefore he knows the closer we get to the LORD, the stronger our armor will be and the <em>hold</em> he continually tries to have on the saints will grow weaker. Remember Ephesians 6:12,13 says, "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."<br /><br />You know what? I enjoyed my Sabbath so much I think I'll do it again. Join me and be blessed!<br /><br />As Always,<br />Simply Trusting<br />Tammy Martinez </p>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-9814807994363423302008-11-05T00:31:00.000-08:002008-11-05T00:45:54.620-08:00THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN<div align="left"><strong>I Samuel 8:4-9</strong></div><br /><div align="left"><br /><strong><em>4 Then all the elders of Israel gathered themselves together, and came to Samuel unto Ramah,<br />5 And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.<br />6 But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the LORD.<br />7 And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.<br />8 According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt even unto this day, wherewith they have forsaken me, and served other gods, so do they also unto thee.<br />9 Now therefore hearken unto their voice: howbeit yet protest solemnly unto them, and shew them the manner of the king that shall reign over them. </em></strong><br /><br />From time past GOD has always hearkened to the voice of His people and this election is no different. I chose the scripture text in I Samuel as a prime example of the LORD listening to the voice of His people. Whether the king would be just or unjust GOD knew, yet he hearkened to the voice of His people. I guess I could have titled this subject GOD’s people have spoken, because as I searched briefly to try and find a census concerning the number of Christians in America versus Non-Christians I could not get a very consistent total but I did find that in each case whether it be a Census or Gallup poll the evidence was still clear that in America the percentage of Christians where higher than Non-Christians. The people have spoken and now we have our president. For Black Americans this is a monumental mild stone and that fact cannot be denied whether you voted for Obama or not. Whether you were for Obama or McCain, the people have spoken and GOD has allowed his people to have what they want, again I state whether just or unjust GOD knows and HE is still on the throne. My plea to you today (as some of you may be very fretful) God has a plan for HIS Kingdom and it will prevail regardless of who is or who is not president. Our continued concern needs to be the commission that the LORD gave to us in Matthew 28:19,20, Mark 16:15 and Luke 24:47, He said to go out and preach the Gospel in His name.<br /><br />I am writing to encourage all of my friends and one thing I dare not to be is wishy-washy for I have friends and love ones who voted for either candidate and I will not have a debate on that issue. My issue is that we have peace in knowing that the LORD’s will be done and that We as a Christian people are allowed by GOD as we can see in I King to (sometimes) have what we want, but the important issue is, what are we going to do about the GOSPEL. While we rejoice or grumble about the presidency there are people, even loved ones we know dying and going to Hell and we have a responsibility to rescue as many of them from the pits of Hell as possible. I pray that you will take this word of exhortation as just that and please don’t make it a controversial issue. And if you’re curious as to whom I voted for give me a call if you have my number and most of my readers do or email me.<br /><br />Blessings to All and as always,<br />Simply Trusting,<br />Tammy Martinez<br /><br />PRAISE be to GOD for His Mercy Endureth FOREVER!</div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-49075488548808654712008-11-02T12:57:00.000-08:002008-11-02T13:22:58.369-08:00Words of Encouragment For a New Week<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielHp9riIOSw7uUQG6V13D2Y1IvDh2odakGpR0JlRW8NIuU-BWP1_WyR8DE9K4QG1z7b7ruMmdBHffE-FtVAb23PjnZA4mVGv8Pave4rPW9gPGVgKv3y66wFDcpnVj2NXi7DxDNKk4Xo5H/s1600-h/Cloud+21.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264170283514572290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 257px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielHp9riIOSw7uUQG6V13D2Y1IvDh2odakGpR0JlRW8NIuU-BWP1_WyR8DE9K4QG1z7b7ruMmdBHffE-FtVAb23PjnZA4mVGv8Pave4rPW9gPGVgKv3y66wFDcpnVj2NXi7DxDNKk4Xo5H/s320/Cloud+21.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center">On The Wings of Prayer</div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">by Helen Steiner Rice</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="center">Just close your eyes and open your heart</div><div align="center">And feel your worries and cares depart,</div><div align="center">Just yield yourself to the Father above</div><div align="center">And let Him hold you secure in His love-</div><div align="center">For life on earth grows more involved</div><div align="center">With endless problems that can't be solved-</div><div align="center">But GOD only asks us to do our best,</div><div align="center">Then He will take over and finish the rest-</div><div align="center">So when you are tired, discouraged, and blue,</div><div align="center">There's always one door that is open to you</div><div align="center">And that is the door to the house of prayer</div><div align="center">And you'll find GOD waiting to meet you there,</div><div align="center">And the house of prayer is no farther away</div><div align="center">than the quiet spot where you kneel and pray-</div><div align="center">For the heart is a temple when GOD is there</div><div align="center">As we place ourselves in HIS loving care,</div><div align="center">And HE hears every prayer and answers each one</div><div align="center">When we pray in His name "Thy will be done"-</div><div align="center">And the burdens that seemed to heavy to bear</div><div align="center">Are lifted away on the wings of prayer.</div><div></div><div></div><br /><div align="left"><em><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffffff;"><strong>"<span style="color:#000000;">Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11:29,30</span></strong></span></em></div><br /><div></div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-12121447317564367162008-11-01T16:06:00.000-07:002008-11-02T18:13:12.697-08:00New Month New Beginning<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgik0wF3QuM0CTIFhxJWKRrNbuwtDe0g25IXaWAHAZpXxAx3NhybaE0Yy3eN6Pc5hosO5O3LwCuvzjLHlB3jqlI5uDxU-yEibC2hpij4H93jGgBiQH9kyhiPmwrDgSJh-fggfPgSngSspJG/s1600-h/Gal+2+20.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263839662420112882" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 207px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgik0wF3QuM0CTIFhxJWKRrNbuwtDe0g25IXaWAHAZpXxAx3NhybaE0Yy3eN6Pc5hosO5O3LwCuvzjLHlB3jqlI5uDxU-yEibC2hpij4H93jGgBiQH9kyhiPmwrDgSJh-fggfPgSngSspJG/s320/Gal+2+20.png" border="0" /></a><br /><br />One of the most common challenges I hear from many of my Sister's - In - Christ is that they don't have time to study and then when they do have time they don't know what to study. My recommendations has frequently been to read a Proverbs a day and I have most recently added, reading 5 Psalms a day (1 Proverb & 5 Psalms.) Now if you really want to be challenged in a positive way add journaling to you daily reading. You can journal about each daily Proverb that you read and write down what that Proverbs means to you. One thing that I have done is to pick out a theme such as: find certain verses in each Proverbs that talks about Love, Child rearing, Wives, Enemies, A Foolish person, there are so many subjects that you could focus and write about. Psalms and Proverbs are such blessings but your study time should be considered more of a blessing and devotion time with the LORD than work. So today is still young and it won't even be late tomorrow, the key is to just get started. Once you <em><strong>commit</strong></em> yourself to doing this, you may find that continuing each month will yield a great amount of wisdom to your mind and growth to your spirit.<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:georgia;">" Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.</span></em></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:georgia;">Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."</span></em></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:georgia;">Psalms 37:4,5</span></em></div><br /><br /><br />Blessings,<br /><br />Simply Trusting<br />Tammy MartinezA Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1868298227183671861.post-51162064488574275072008-10-31T16:49:00.000-07:002008-11-02T18:15:12.482-08:00Women's Gathering 2008 "Let this mind be in you..."<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKtFFC1wW_n4dHu9E9vl1juxEwyrsNER00XV9l70XqpFkG8eAyapoz9IHYZgU5ydtkMIYmk9KIK_r1T_GisNsr7A9XYdggFS1MQqLKGVD9ngNgQDtQdB-fzrhxtx1RklSDw3XWpd0rtb2u/s1600-h/My+Cloud2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263801869131294898" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKtFFC1wW_n4dHu9E9vl1juxEwyrsNER00XV9l70XqpFkG8eAyapoz9IHYZgU5ydtkMIYmk9KIK_r1T_GisNsr7A9XYdggFS1MQqLKGVD9ngNgQDtQdB-fzrhxtx1RklSDw3XWpd0rtb2u/s320/My+Cloud2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Greetings in the name of the LORD !!<br /><br />Just wanted to keep in touch with the ladies who attended our 6th annual Women's Gathering. I believe we all had a time of refreshing and renewing of hearts unto the LORD. For those of you who were not able to attend this year, the theme was based on Philippians 2:5 <strong><em>"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus" </em></strong>(KJV1611) This was a wonderful 3 day event, one of our speakers is a missionary to the Ivory Coast, Michelle Geiger. Please keep her prayer has she continues her deputation. The other two speakers were myself, Tammy Martinez, and Sister Gloria Garces of March Avenue Baptist Church<br /><br />It was wonderful how the LORD intertwined our messages and thoughts together. Each message was different but they all were based on the same premise that in order to have the mind of Christ we need to know Christ. In order know Christ we must study His Word. Each day was filled with scripture and testimonies. Testimonies of a life time of heartaches, abuse and loneliness. The testimonies were given all to the glory of GOD. What a blessing to be able to praise GOD through your trials.<br /><br />The LORD taught us many things in the 3 days that there is truly a unity in the body of Christ. There were women their from different areas of San Antonio, different churches and all age groups. We were truly a diverse crowd, but in all I must say that we gathered in the name of the LORD.<br /><br />I was so fired up and revived from the Women's Gathering and I actually felt a since of mourning when it was all over. I still have the fire and I am going forward to do whatever the LORD has purposed for me to do. Please keep checking back on this site for more information about upcoming events.<br /><br />There will be a quarterly breakfast to continue our fellowship and we look forward to seeing many of you there, so keep checking back for the upcoming dates. Our first breakfast will be in November and we will be announcing that date soon. If you signed our address book at the church you will receive an invitation in the mail.<br /><br />We welcome any and all testimonies are comments concerning the '08 Women's Gathering. Please leave a comment and let us know how this event blessed you.</div>A Fruitful Vinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11809763848123218756noreply@blogger.com3