Deborah L. McCarragher's Blog, page 22

New on Amazon - "Simply Salsa" by Janet P Eckles

Janet Perez Eckles' new release, Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God's Fiesta tells real-life stories to show how she lost her sight, lost her son, endured injustice and other adversity, Yet her life dances to the melody of God's Word. In her book, you'll see how you too can delight in the same victory. Each insight and story will captivate you to see God's power at work to  set you free from the effects of tough situations.
Janet's speaking presentations ignite in you the passion to overcome. She inspires both English- and Spanish-speaking audiences. She was honored by receiving the "Latina Woman Who Makes A Difference Award 2011."
About the Book:  
Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God's Fiesta What keeps women from dancing to the freedom God offers?
With passion and boldness, Simply Salsa exposes the lies and misconceptions that imprison women with unfounded insecurities and feelings of inadequacy. No matter the degree of adversity or pain, Janet Eckles has discovered an alternative to gloom—through the security that is only found in God's love.

When women in the Bible faced tribulations and trials, they sought God's grace. Simply Salsa illustrates how that same grace offers today's women the opportunity to:

Leave the ugly past behind and look to a fresh tomorrow
Find peace and increased faith as you wait for answers to prayer
Embrace God's comfort to conquer sorrow and disappointment
With her own life experiences as testimony, Eckles will have you dancing!

About Janet:
I've weathered tornadoes of pain during my lifetime. When I was 32, Retinitis Pigmentosa robbed me of my eyesight and winds of anguish thrust me into emotional darkness. I was tempted to sink into self-pity and stay there. The adversity intensified with marital infidelity and financial hardship. Then, years later, another storm buffeted me, bringing even greater heartache. My son, Joe, was tragically killed in a senseless altercation. Hoping for justice, I endured the trial of the man responsible. But to our astonishment, he was acquitted of all charges. "How unfair," I screamed inside. Resentment, anger and sorrow threatened to consume me. Lost in my heartache, I groped in desperation.

Finally, I turned to God, and He unlocked a new world for me through the verse that says, "Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:33).

I clung to that reassurance and, one step at a time, gained strength, received comfort and rekindled the drive to keep going.

When Janet is not writing blogs, stories for my magazine columns, for anthologies or chapters for her books, she's traveling across the country and internationally for speaking engagements and mission trips. When at home, Janet teaches ladies' Sunday school at South Orlando Baptist Church where she & her husband worship.

What Others Are Saying
"In an engaging and refreshingly creative style, Simply Salsa addresses the issue of how fear can paralyze women. Each insight unravels the lies behind our fears. With the author's own life journey and the experiences of other women, Simply Salsa is a guide to finding hope to overcome any fear. Like talking to a close friend about deep issues, this book is delightfully powerful!" 
--Nancy Wilson, author, speaker, Global Ambassador for Campus Crusade for Christ/Story Runners 


* * *  Buy Book Now  * * 

SIMPLY SALSA                                       

  You can also visit Janet's website at:   www.janetperezeckles.com








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

 

Amazon launch of "Simply Salsa" by Janet P Eckles - TODAY August 9th

Janet Perez Eckles' new release, Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God's Fiesta tells real-life stories to show how she lost her sight, lost her son, endured injustice and other adversity, Yet her life dances to the melody of God's Word. In her book, you'll see how you too can delight in the same victory. Each insight and story will captivate you to see God's power at work to  set you free from the effects of tough situations. Janet's speaking presentations ignite in you the passion to overcome. She inspires both English- and Spanish-speaking audiences. She was honored by receiving the "Latina Woman Who Makes A Difference Award 2011."
About the Book:  
Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God's Fiesta What keeps women from dancing to the freedom God offers?
With passion and boldness, Simply Salsa exposes the lies and misconceptions that imprison women with unfounded insecurities and feelings of inadequacy. No matter the degree of adversity or pain, Janet Eckles has discovered an alternative to gloom—through the security that is only found in God's love.

When women in the Bible faced tribulations and trials, they sought God's grace. Simply Salsa illustrates how that same grace offers today's women the opportunity to:

Leave the ugly past behind and look to a fresh tomorrow
Find peace and increased faith as you wait for answers to prayer
Embrace God's comfort to conquer sorrow and disappointment
With her own life experiences as testimony, Eckles will have you dancing!

About Janet:
I've weathered tornadoes of pain during my lifetime. When I was 32, Retinitis Pigmentosa robbed me of my eyesight and winds of anguish thrust me into emotional darkness. I was tempted to sink into self-pity and stay there. The adversity intensified with marital infidelity and financial hardship. Then, years later, another storm buffeted me, bringing even greater heartache. My son, Joe, was tragically killed in a senseless altercation. Hoping for justice, I endured the trial of the man responsible. But to our astonishment, he was acquitted of all charges. "How unfair," I screamed inside. Resentment, anger and sorrow threatened to consume me. Lost in my heartache, I groped in desperation.

Finally, I turned to God, and He unlocked a new world for me through the verse that says, "Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:33).

I clung to that reassurance and, one step at a time, gained strength, received comfort and rekindled the drive to keep going.

When Janet is not writing blogs, stories for my magazine columns, for anthologies or chapters for her books, she's traveling across the country and internationally for speaking engagements and mission trips.
When at home, Janet teaches ladies' Sunday school at South Orlando Baptist Church where she & her husband worship.

What Others Are Saying
"In an engaging and refreshingly creative style, Simply Salsa addresses the issue of how fear can paralyze women. Each insight unravels the lies behind our fears. With the author's own life journey and the experiences of other women, Simply Salsa is a guide to finding hope to overcome any fear. Like talking to a close friend about deep issues, this book is delightfully powerful!" 
--Nancy Wilson, author, speaker, Global Ambassador for Campus Crusade for Christ/Story Runners 


* * *  Amazon Launch Day Special  * * *
For only 24 hours, TODAY - August 9th, Janet is offering BONUS GIFTS and chance to win $100 gift card or an airline ticket when you place your order through Amazon.com. Watch video now for more details: http://bit.ly/peQ9n2 

Or visit here to order NOW    http://simplysalsathebook.com

 You can also visit Janet's website at:   www.janetperezeckles.com








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

 

Amazon launch of Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God's Fiesta by Janet Eckles

When Tough times touch our lives, God's hand whispers comfort, His power ushers peace and His promise makes all things possible. 
Blindness and other tragedies didn't stop this  author from helping you see the best of life. In Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God's Fiesta , J.P. Eckles brings you inspiration to soothe your soul, insights to encourage you and boldness to claim God's triumph . 

* * *  Amazon Launch Day Special  * * *
Win a $100 American Express gift card or an airline ticket and much more when you place your order of Simply Salsa on Tuesday, August 9 through Amazon.com .  Watch this video for details:
"In an engaging and refreshingly creative style, Simply Salsa addresses the issue of how fear can paralyze women. Each insight unravels the lies behind our fears. With the author's own life journey and the experiences of other women, Simply Salsa is a guide to finding hope to overcome any fear. Like talking to a close friend about deep issues, this book is delightfully powerful!" --Nancy Wilson, author, speaker, Global Ambassador for Campus Crusade for Christ/Story Runners 


About the Author:
"Someday, honey, we'll visit the beautiful places along the Mississippi River where Tom Sawyer lived," my Mom said as she braided my black hair while seated outside in the back of our old home in Bolivia. I was only 12 when her dreams came true. In 1964 my family and I emigrated from Bolivia and St. Louis, Missouri, became our new home.

Wonder and prosperity filled Janet's new life. Her name on the honor roll and popularity with boys traced memories of her school years. And after graduating from college, she married her blue-eyed gringo. Three beautiful sons completed the family and promises of joy painted the horizon.

But instead of joy, her world crumbled--at 31 years of age--complete blindness, financial devastation and years later, the murder of her youngest son. The world brought gloom, but Christ brought grace and freedom from despair. Today, she writes without sight, but with insight…

When women in the Bible faced tribulations and trials, they sought God's grace. Simply Salsa illustrates how that same grace offers today's women the opportunity to:
Leave the ugly past behind and look to a fresh tomorrow
Find peace and increased faith as you wait for answers to prayer
Embrace God's comfort to conquer sorrow and disappointment
With a bit of sassiness, a touch of humor, and an amiga-to-amiga style, Simply Salsa encourages women to accept God's call to dance!

 You can visit Janet's website here:   www.janetperezeckles.com











Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

It's Blog Jog Time Again

Welcome to Blog Jog Day!   Please enjoy my site (see special offer below) then CLICK OVER to Terri Forehand , Author at http://terri-forehand.blogspot.com  
to see what the next Blog has to offer!  Terri's goal as a writer is to reach out to kids of all ages with entertaining, educational, and inspiring words. The Cancer Prayer Book is the first in a series of books she has been asked to write to encourage those with serious challenges.

` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` `Lost in the links? You can always go back to the main Blog Jog Day Blog at http://blogjogday.blogspot.com and find a new link to jog from.


Thank you for stopping by my site!
Come back and visit me often for inspiring, encouraging, and faith-filled posts featuring God's Word.

For a free excerpt and audio file please visit  MISSION POSSIBLE Free Downloads  

Before you go -
* * Blog Jog Special -  FREE  download of  MISSION POSSIBLE  Ebook * *
To receive your Coupon Code for a FREE ebook download on Smashwords, please tell me what this devotional post means to you, along with your email address in the Post a Comment  section below:
Have you been waiting for your spouse to come to knowledge of Jesus that will transform his life? Sometimes that personal revelation takes awhile... Read about Thomas in the Bible (John 20:19-29). I firmly believe in divine appointments. Thomas wasn't in the room when Jesus met with the disciples on the same evening He arose from the grave. Do you ever wonder why Thomas wasn't present with them?

Remember, this was the same Thomas that asked Jesus in John 14:5, "Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way"? Jesus then told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me". "If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him". 
Isn't it funny that we often don't recognize the Lord either. We know that Thomas knew Him, but he chose not to believe what the other disciples saw. In John 20:14, how Thomas insisted, "Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe". He was giving himself an ultimatum. Proof is often needed by the natural man. But Thomas was a spiritual man, one who knew the Lord intimately - face to face. What hampered his ability to "see without proof" what he already knew in his heart? Or did he really believe what he had heard earlier?

John 20:26 says, "And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said "Peace to you!" Do you think Thomas had "peace" after the other disciples told him he "missed seeing Jesus"? Then in verse 27 we read, "Then He said to Thomas, "Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing." Jesus turned toward Thomas and addressed him personally. Isn't that just like our loving Lord, to meet us at our weakest point with His immeasurable grace and mercy? Your spouse also needs to have that transformational meeting with Jesus - face to face! His doubts and fears can be overcome when Jesus dialogs with them on their level, just like Thomas. 
Oswald Chambers in My Utmost for His Highest says this: "The experience of salvation means that in your actual life things are really altered, you no longer look at things as you used to; your desires are new, old things have lost their power. If you are born again, the Spirit of God makes the alteration manifest in your actual life and reasoning, and when the crisis comes you are the most amazed person on earth at the wonderful difference there is in you. There is no possibility of imagining that you did it. It is this complete and amazing alteration that is the evidence that you are a saved soul."

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, behold, all things have become new." - Apostle Paul (II Corinthians 5:17)

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Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.godmissionpossible.com/

Fountain of Youth or Hype - Live Forever?

In this modern society obsessed with youth and living life to the fullest, are we still looking for the Fountain of Youth?  You bet!   
What fuels this insatiable appetite for a miracle cure for wrinkles, muscle loss, and longevity?  Why do humans want to live forever? 
The simple answer:  pride .  We despise the notion of turning back to dust.  We don't like the idea of getting weaker and older.  We just want to live forever…
The famous explorer Juan Ponce de León accompanied Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the New World in 1493.  The local indian tribes told him about a remarkable place called Bimini where a natural spring bestowed youth and prosperity on those who drank from it. His search for these miraculous waters was said to have been one of the reasons he sailed north from Puerto Rico in 1513 on an exploratory voyage.  He had in his pocket a grant from the King of Spain giving him the right to rule whatever lands he should find.
He sailed northward along islands in the Bahamas, and then turned west and crossed open water until he reached what seemed to be a large island that he named La Florida, the land of flowers.  He had landed on America's east coast and is believed to have landed in the vicinity of St. Augustine.  This is the present day site of one of the so called sites of the actual Fountain of Youth . 
However, there is also another location in the Isles of the Bahamas which has asserted a claim to the famed Fountain of Youth . This cluster is fittingly named the Bimini islands, in keeping with the original tribal legend.  There on South Bimini Island, is a freshwater well still standing with a plaque identifying it as the Fountain of Youth .  These shallow pools of water found on the islands, such as the well-known Healing Hole, are rich with minerals and other healing properties.   People say that bathing in those waters make them feel completely restored and rejuvenated.  
In modern times fountains have often been a symbol of wealth and status.  Great estates in the rolling hillsides of Europe feature grand, ornate fountains – lavishly gushing forth over their alabaster carved rims.  Many times they featured a statue of a prominent local figure or war hero.  Often they displayed beautiful young women or children playing in the streams of cascading water.  Birds drink freely as it pools and gurgles, and lovers cast coins into them for good luck.
However, a fountain in biblical times often denoted a spring of water issuing from the earth.  In the parched countryside near the desert - springs, pools, pits, cisterns and fountains represented life and was the basis for the naming of many towns and locations including Enam, meaning "two springs" (Joshua 15).   Proverbs 13:14 characterized God's law as, "a fountain of life…"   David speaks of the lovingkindness of God in Psalms 36:9 this way:  "For with You is the fountain of life…"
In Jesus' day, healing properties were thought to reside in the Pool of Bethesda, a spring-fed rock hewn reservoir in Jerusalem which was surrounded by five porches.  This is the location in John Chapter 5 where we are told the waters were stirred by an angel prior to people descending into them.  The blind, the lame, the paralyzed, and the infirmed often came to bathe within its walls – believing for a miraculous healing.  It is documented in Scripture that Jesus healed a man there who had been sick for thirty-eight years. 
In Jeremiah 2:13 the prophet gives his first sermon to a wicked generation.  He relayed  what the Lord God of Israel said to the people residing in Judah;  "For My people have committed two evils: They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, and hewn themselves cisterns – broken cisterns that can hold no water."   God's people had rejected Him as their life source and strength.
In the New Testament Jesus told the woman at the well in John 4:14, "but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."  
So what are you looking for?  The latest cryogenics treatment?  A more potent bio-identical hormone injection?  Molecular engineering? A new super-food or other nutritional breakthrough?
As believers, we now have a perpetual rejuvenation in Christ.  We are slowly changing from mortality to immortality.  From death to life.  We have been promised a new body in the resurrection, and an eternal home with Jesus in heaven.  It can't get any better than that…
The hymnist William Cowper suffered from deep depression for most of his life.  In 1764 he found himself within the walls of an institution for the mentally ill.  There in the asylum, he found Christ through reading the Bible.  Despite his emotional pain, and while institutionalized, he penned this magnificent hymn, which is based on Zechariah 13:1, "On that day a fountain will be opened to the house of David… to cleanse them from sin and impurity."
Here is the first stanza of  There Is a Fountain Filled With Blood    -
There is a fountain filled with bloodDrawn from Emmanuel's veins,And sinners, plunged beneath that flood,Lose all their guilty stains,Lose all their guilty stains;And sinners, plunged beneath that flood,Lose all their guilty stains.







Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

What's in the Belly of a Whale?

"I just don't care anymore!"   "Why do I always have to be the one to apologize?"   "I'm tired of walking on egg-shells all the time!"
Does this sound familiar?  Is it always all about you?  What's deep inside your whale's belly? 
Has God allowed you to remain in a chamber of discomfort as He has a personal dialog with you about your disobedience?  Have you taken an inventory of the messy, stinky and seaweed strewn attitudes you possess? What about those tiny little creatures bobbing up and down in the gastronomical juices of your future plans.  There might even be an old shoe or sea creature carcass lodged in your circumstances.  Are you still sitting in the dark - waiting for a rescue plan?

God will get your attention – one way or another… 

Consider the story of Jonah… He was a contemporary of Jeroboam II of Israel (the southern kingdom) during the nation's divided history.  He is mentioned in II Kings chapter fourteen as God's servant Jonah the son of Amittai of the tribe of Zebulun, the prophet who was from Gath Hepher.  That is an area roughly three miles north of Nazareth in lower Galilee, making Jonah a prophet out of the northern kingdom. 
Assyria had gained a legendary reputation of being one of the cruelest empires in the ancient world.  Graphic accounts of their torture and cruelty have been found in Assyrian records from the ninth and seventh centuries B.C. 
Jonah was fiercely devoted to his people and did not want to do anything that might contribute to Assyria's thriving empire.  God called him to preach repentance to the wicked King and his subjects in the capital of Nineveh.  Nineveh was founded by Nimrod, great-grandson of Noah (Genesis 10).  However, Jonah was unwilling to be a foreign missionary to a people towards whom he could feel nothing but bitterness and contempt.
When God commanded him to go to Assyria's thriving city of sin and debauchery to have a revival service Jonah not only refused – he turned and went in the opposite direction!  Silly old Jonah – thinking he could either outrun or hide from the Almighty.  But don't you and I do the same thing when we're called to do something difficult or unpopular? 
Well – God had no trouble locating Jonah on a ship bound for Tarshish by way of Joppa.  The Lord sent out a great wind on the sea and the ship was tossed to and fro - ready to break apart.  Jonah Chapter 1 says, "Then the mariners were afraid; and every man cried out to his god, and threw the cargo that was in the ship into the sea, to lighten the load."  The text also tells us that Jonah was fast asleep – oblivious to the chaos on deck above him. 
The captain awoke him and pleaded with him to call on his God that they might not perish.  They cast lots to determine whose fault the calamity was, and it fell on Jonah.  After much discussion and pleadings from Jonah – they reluctantly threw him into the sea.  The sea became calm and the men feared his God. 
Jonah 1:17 says this:  "Now the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow Jonah.  And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights."
How long do you think it took Jonah to start praying?  What do you think he thought about while he sat in the large hollow of the whale's stomach?  Do you think he thought about the men on board the ship who asked him, "Please tell us!  For whose cause is this trouble upon us?  What is your occupation?  And where do you come from"?  After all, Jonah even admitted that the great raging tempest was because of him!  He actually told the crew to throw him overboard in order to save themselves.  
Below is an excerpt from  MISSION POSSIBLE  -   Chapter 4 – Painful Reality  

Whatever you do, don't be a modern day Jonah and try to run away from your God appointed mission. There will be direct conflict with "your will" over what to do. The Prophet Jonah didn't want to go to Nineveh for many reasons, but none of them were good enough for God. (Your reason won't be either).  You must have a genuine love for his soul because he is your husband and that is who will spend eternity with you.
When Jonah had pity on the plant more than the inhabitants of Nineveh, God rebuked him saying, "You have had pity on the plant for which you have not labored, nor made it grow … and should I not pity Nineveh, that great city, in which are more than one hundred and twenty thousand persons who cannot discern between their right hand and their left?"  (Jonah 4:10-11). Likewise, with regards to your husband, have pity on his soul .  Jesus died as much for him as for you. Pray that God will enlarge your gift of compassion towards him. Pray for a "burden for his soul". Pray for God's mercy. Someone cared about your soul enough to point you to Christ.

Our Lord Himself alluded to the historical accuracy of the story of Jonah in Matthew 12 and Luke 11 when He taught that as Jonah was three days and three nights in the body of the great fish, so should the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.  The wicked men of Nineveh had repented at the preaching of Jonah, while His own countrymen, scholars and religious rulers rejected His message. Jonah actually sacrificed himself for the lives of innocent men.  That is the marvelous picture of Christ we see in the story of Jonah.

 This precious video made it's rounds on the internet a few months ago.  It's about 7 minutes long - but well worth the watch!  This little girl is very demonstrative and too cute!

I "smile out loud" every time I watch it!








 




Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.   http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

Are You Still on the Potter's Wheel?

[image error] clay     lump     speed     whirling     pressure     impression     shaping     carve      band     stop     glaze     fire     rest     use
Is this a picture of your spiritual life?   Has the Master Potter spent considerable time and effort on your vessel?  Do you know for what purpose you were created? 
Wikipedia has this definition:  Pottery is made by forming clay into objects of a required shape and heating them to high temperatures in a kiln or oven to induce reactions that lead to permanent changes including increasing their strength and setting their shape. 
Wow! Did you just grasp what that said?  Christ is forming us [clay] into objects of a certain shape and purpose [of His choosing] and heating us to induce reactions [purifying us] that leads to permanent change [new creation] in order to increase our strength and permanent use [for His Glory].
Our Potter determines what material, what shape, what purpose, and what prominence we have in His Kingdom.  We are clay formed from the dust of this world into a vessel of honor for our Potter's honor and glory.  Ephesians 2:10 declare, "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…"
In his devotional My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers says this concerning our vision of what our reality should be according to our own inclination:      "We always have visions, before a thing is made real…God gives us the vision, then He takes us down to the valley to batter us into the shape of the vision, and it is in the valley that so many of us faint and give way… Let Him put you on His wheel and whirl you as He likes, and as sure as God is God and you are you, you will turn out exactly in accordance with the vision. Don't lose heart in the process."
 Chapter 18 in the book of Jeremiah contains the famous passage of the potter and the clay .  Jeremiah was lamenting and admonishing Israel about their grievous sin and idolatry.  He stood in the gates of Jerusalem proclaiming God's words of warning to a stiff-necked people.  During this time the Lord spoke to Jeremiah and said, "Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause you to hear My words."  When Jeremiah visited his house he observed him making something at the wheel.  Jeremiah says in verses 4-6, "And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter, so he made it again into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make. Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying: 'O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter?' says the Lord. 'Look, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel?'"
This   pottery "factory" in Palestine (mentioned in Jeremiah 18) was in the Valley of Hinnom near the Potsherd Gate and near the tower of the furnaces or pottery kilns (Nehemiah 3:11; 12:38).    Potter's clay was made by "weathering" the dry native clay-dust or the wet stream-bank clay before treading it by foot for use in making cooking vessels and water pots.  Often the clay was hand-kneaded several hours in order to remove all of the air bubbles before working with it on the wheel.  After it dried to a leathery consistency, the vessel would be returned to the wheel for turning, cutting and paring off excess clay.  It was then beautified with a variety of tools and techniques before having a "slip" coat for color or sheen.  Finally, it was "fired" by heating it in an open fire or in a kiln and later removed for cooling.
In our marriages we must remember that our Potter created us to be unique.  His process differs from one vessel to another. He knows just how to make us so we will fit into our particular family unit.  Our clay may have been tread on for a longer period of time. Our kneading might have lasted a little longer than someone else.  We may possess a different color or texture than the next vessel.  We could have been whirled and whirled and stretched longer and harder.  Maybe we were beveled or poked or intricately cut more than the others. Finally – we thought we couldn't take one more second in that intense heat – but the Potter knew best.  Now we wait… and wait… cooling.
God formed Adam from the "dust" in Genesis 2:7, and we are likened to the potter's creation as found in Job 10:8-9, "Your hands have made me and fashioned me, an intricate unity; Yet You would destroy me. Remember, I pray, that You have made me like clay."  And in Isaiah 29:16 we read of God's reply to him saying, "Surely you have things turned around! Shall the potter be esteemed as the clay; for shall the thing made say of Him who made it, 'He did not make me?' Or shall the thing formed say of Him who formed it, 'He has no understanding?'"
Paul makes a similar plea to the Romans in Chapter 9:20-21.  He states, "But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed say to Him who formed it, 'Why have you made me like this?'  Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?" Who are we to complain or self-determine with what or how we will serve Him?
I have given up trying to analyze how I was formed and how I will be used. I am coming to peace with myself and my Potter. There are times when I simply don't grasp His methods or timing.  But this I know: as He was with the three Hebrew youth in the fiery furnace, so will the Lord be with you (Daniel 3:25).
Below is one of my favorite worship songs of all time - The Potter's Hand by Darlene Zschech of Hillsong.  One of the repeated lyrics is, "Take me; mold me; use me; fill me. I give my life to the Potter's Hand."
"Click on Play" and let it minister to you as you continue to browse online or work on your computer. It's a magnificent outpouring of our love to the Master Potter …

You've Got Mail !

[image error] Don't you wish God would just send you an e-mail and keep you current on what He's up to?   Perhaps He could instant message us when we've over-reacted to our spouse's ugly reply. Maybe He can have a Priority Mail envelope appear at our front door with an answer we've been seeking. Being married means having to practice "conflict resolution" on a regular basis. As a Christian married to a non-Christian we need our communication line wide open to God. Remember hearing your computer's audible alert "You've got mail!"? Well, God has His own way of getting our attention in this tech savvy world of ours…
For years current pollsters like George Gallup and George Barna have revealed through their polling data that Christian marriages fare little better than marriages at large. The divorce rate is nearly identical. Biblical teaching and preaching on marriage is readily available from well known pastors and ministries. Many of them provide easy access to sermons and programming on their websites, MP-3 podcasts, radio programs and TV shows. Marriages are under attack. It's not a matter of "if", but "when".

All of this "advice" is great – however, the best resource for marital woes is still directly from God's Word. You must search the Scriptures and allow God to speak to you one on one. I like to think of it as "checking my God-mail". By taking the time to stop and look at my "Inbox" – I allow the Holy Spirit to remind me of an action, thought or word that I need to reflect upon in order to respond appropriately.

I might have been overly critical with my husband on an issue that was emotionally charged for me. No matter; you must let the Holy Spirit speak to you about your behavior, actions and heart motives. The health of your marriage depends on your ability to "delete the spam" and open the important God-messages that He sends your way. Practice extending grace to your mate. Ephesians 4:29 says, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers."

Sometimes we complain to the Lord about our spouse. We grumble about their behavior or general demeanor. Let's be clear here – we're not responsible for their actions. Jesus told Peter in John 21:22, "If I will that he [John] remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me." In other words, don't worry yourself about what Jesus is going to do or not do for that person… you follow Him and what He has destined for your life. Let God work in you to resolve your issues regarding your mate. You're a "work in progress" that God will complete according to His divine wisdom and sovereignty. Commitment to your mate and vows is critical to overcoming adversity at home. You have to purpose to work through problems and extend grace liberally.

Pastor Greg Laurie, on his radio show A New Beginning, said this regarding marital strife and minding your own business: "Read your own mail."   He was preaching on the state of marriage within the Church and how the enemy delights in our willingness to "play the Jr. Holy Spirit" [my words] when it comes to pointing out your mate's sin. We all get caught-up in recognizing sin in another person's behavior. We focus on our own hurt, pain and betrayal. We keep our gaze on our feelings instead of God's character and His ability to alter our thinking and circumstances. Jesus clearly reminds me to "remove the plank from my own eye, so I can then clearly see to remove the speck from my brother's eye."

The Bible portrays godly marriage as a representation of Christ and His Church. Proverbs 18:22 says, "He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord." God's love is the foundation of a couple's marriage – even when only one spouse puts that concept into practice. John 3:16 is the love gesture given for both marriage partners and the tie that binds the heavenly seal over your marital covenant. Your commitment to Christ sanctifies your marriage in the eyes of God. I Corinthians 7:14 states, "For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband…"

Next time you sit at your computer or grab your iphone, just remember - God might be vying for your attention. Listen for the Spirit's alert subtly announcing "You've Got Mail !"









 Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

Celebrating Freedom and the Book Launch of Montezuma Intrigue

[image error] In celebration of our country's "Freedom" and the Official Book Launch for Montezuma Intrigue , Linda Weaver Clarke is having a Book Give-Away lasting until July 7: Win a mystery/adventure novel with a touch of romance at http://lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com/

Adventure...Suspense...Romance...Intrigue...
Humor!  

The search for Montezuma's treasure, mysterious events, family secrets, and a good-looking rogue!

When a leather parchment of Montezuma's map is found in great-grandfather Evans' old chest, April and the twins know this summer is going to be a memorable one. The girls want to search for it but their father is against it for some mysterious reason. With Julia's help, she and the girls convince John to go on a treasure hunt. Is Montezuma's treasure a legend or reality? Whatever the case, John insists on keeping their little treasure hunt a secret. If certain people find out about it, the family could be in danger.  Purchase here:  Montezuma Intrique
 

[image error] About the Author:

Linda Weaver Clarke travels throughout the United States, teaching a "Family Legacy Workshop" at libraries, encouraging others to write their family history and autobiography. Clarke is the author of the historical romance series, "A Family Saga in Bear Lake, Idaho" and a new mystery series, "The Adventures of John and Julia Evans."

Linda was raised on a farm surrounded by the rolling hills of southern Idaho and made her home in southern Utah among the beautiful red mountains and desert heat. She has been happily married for 36 years and is the mother of six daughters and has four grandchildren .

After her family left the nest, she decided it was time to finish what she had started long ago. Linda decided to go back to college and get a degree. It had been 30 years since she had been in college and it was one of the most frightening things she had ever done. She had to learn how to study and take tests all over again. The first day of college, Linda was a nervous wreck and wondered if she could do it, but with the support of her husband and children she was able to graduate. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre and Music at Southern Utah University and received the Outstanding Non-Traditional Student Award for the College of Performing Arts in 2002.

She enjoys writing short stories and novels.  After publishing "Melinda and the Wild West", she entered it in the Reader Views Literary Contest and her  book was chosen as a Semi-Finalist in the "Reviewers Choice Awards 2007." It was one of the top ten out of hundreds of other entries.

About Linda's Writing

"Linda Clarke has a writing style which opens the mind in a way that lets us see what her character sees, and allows the reader to feel the thoughts and emotions of the characters. It is impossible to avoid becoming part of the story she so skillfully develops. She writes historical fiction as if she were taking the reader back in time." -- Lloyd E. Reid, Library Director of Washington County Libraries

You can visit Linda on her website at  http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com  and her Blog at  http://www.lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com




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Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible". It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion. It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.

http://www.Godmissionpossible.com  

Why Do We Celebrate Independence Day?

[image error] The American Revolution resulted in the original thirteen colonies legally separating from Great Britain on July 2, 1776.  The Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of independence. Congress then appointed a Committee of five to draft the Declaration of Independence , including Thomas Jefferson as the main author.  Upon debate and revision, the Declaration was finally approved on July 4th . 

John Adams - one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence predicted that a "great anniversary festival" ought to be commemorated as an epoch day in history for America.  He wrote in a letter to his wife that it "ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of the continent to the other, from that date forward forever more."

Two of the original signers of the Declaration of Independence later served as President of the United States of America:  John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.  Both died on the same day: July 4th , 1826, which was the 50th anniversary of the Declaration. 

Today Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches, ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the United States of America's history, government, and traditions.
When you became a Christian you were officially set free from sin , guilt and shame .  Galatians 5:1 states, "Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage" [to sin].  I John 1:9 tells us, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  And in Romans 8:1 Paul tells us, "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit."

[image error] Independence is truly a reason for celebration!   In John 8:31-32 Jesus said, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

Two passages from the book of Isaiah prophetically speak about our freedom in Christ. "The Lord will let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke" (Isaiah 58:6).
"[Jesus] Himself will proclaim liberty to the captives, and open the prison [doors] to those who are bound" (Isaiah 61:1).
 Independence from the world is dependence on God.   Unlike Frank Sinatra and his song "I Did It My Way" - we depend solely on God for our life and liberty in Christ.  While Paul was preaching in Athens he said, "for in Him  we live and move and have our being..." 
In Romans chapter 8 Paul says, "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death."  And in chapter 10 he says, "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes."    True freedom relies on Christ and His atonement for our sin.

Our Independence Day is truly an event worthy of celebration and fireworks! We are no longer subject to the king of this world, but forever free in Christ as His joint heirs and citizens of a new nation.










Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com