Our Daily Bread
The term "reboot" is used in several ways. The most common meaning is to "restart something". We see it used to describe restarting our computer, a movie or TV series or maybe even a relationship.
I thought of the latter when reading the devotional -- rebooting our relationship with God when things aren't working quite right. We usually have to reboot a computer after we did something with unexptected consequences. We also have to reboot after "fixes" are installed. So now I think of rebooting as letting God install some fixes on my heart drive (see what I did there) and reboot so I can operate for Him! Praise God!
Lord, you know our OSs are in constant need of bug fixes and upgrades. Please help us to trust you to know what is best for us!
Movie Monday
I saw two new movies last week: Tammy and Transformers: Age of Extinction.
Tammy
A friend invited me to a sneak preview of the new Melissa McCarthy movie Tammy. The best thing I can say about it is that it was free! Melissa's dumb girl act wears very thin about ten minutes into the movie and is rarely funny after that. The movie was saved from total boredom by Susan Sarandon's and Kathy Bates' characteters. Thank goodness! Lots of interesting plot turns and odd scenes that were funny (though not always meant to be).
I give this movie 1.5 bear paws for the saving graces of Katny and Susan. Rent this one if you see it at all.
Transformers: Age of Extinction
This one, with the new cast, was better than Transformers 2, but not the other movies. It was very very loud. Wow... LOUD! It was also almost three hours long. If you have read my reviews over the past four years you know I HATE needlessly long movies. The new cast was a nice change. Same basic story lines. Same jokes. Same cheesy lines. More reasons not to trust the government. Ha!
I give this movie 2 bear paws for the special effects and new cast. See it on the big screen.
*****************************************
For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.- Psalm 117:2
Monday, June 30, 2014
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Efficiency
Our Daily Bread
I joke with friends about my fascination with efficiency. I try to keep it in mind when I am doing many tasks in a day or weekend. I get a lot more done in a shorter time! Woohooooo!
I had to learn some difficult lessons about trying to apply those principles to my Christian life. Yikes! God has taught me over and over about these things (I am a stiff-necked people...). I wish I had a longer term memory when it came to spiritual things. I feel like I have grown a lot the past seven years, but also realize that I have a lot more to give over to God. I am not being hard on myself, just letting the inefficiency of being a human who wants to be like Christ set in my mind! Let us all pray for each other as we live and grow!
Lord, you know us. Please help us live and grow no matter how long it takes. It is about the journey!
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 149 is a beautiful psalm about the goodness of God towards his children, Israel. I think it applies to us as well!
Psalm 149
Praise for God’s Goodness to Israel
1 Praise the Lord!
Sing to the Lord a new song,
his praise in the assembly of the faithful.
2 Let Israel be glad in its Maker;
let the children of Zion rejoice in their King.
3 Let them praise his name with dancing,
making melody to him with tambourine and lyre.
4 For the Lord takes pleasure in his people;
he adorns the humble with victory.
5 Let the faithful exult in glory;
let them sing for joy on their couches.
6 Let the high praises of God be in their throats
and two-edged swords in their hands,
7 to execute vengeance on the nations
and punishment on the peoples,
8 to bind their kings with fetters
and their nobles with chains of iron,
9 to execute on them the judgment decreed.
This is glory for all his faithful ones.
Praise the Lord!
************************************
God loves each of us as if there were only one of us. —Augustine
I joke with friends about my fascination with efficiency. I try to keep it in mind when I am doing many tasks in a day or weekend. I get a lot more done in a shorter time! Woohooooo!
I had to learn some difficult lessons about trying to apply those principles to my Christian life. Yikes! God has taught me over and over about these things (I am a stiff-necked people...). I wish I had a longer term memory when it came to spiritual things. I feel like I have grown a lot the past seven years, but also realize that I have a lot more to give over to God. I am not being hard on myself, just letting the inefficiency of being a human who wants to be like Christ set in my mind! Let us all pray for each other as we live and grow!
Lord, you know us. Please help us live and grow no matter how long it takes. It is about the journey!
Psalm Sunday
Psalm 149 is a beautiful psalm about the goodness of God towards his children, Israel. I think it applies to us as well!
Psalm 149
Praise for God’s Goodness to Israel
1 Praise the Lord!
Sing to the Lord a new song,
his praise in the assembly of the faithful.
2 Let Israel be glad in its Maker;
let the children of Zion rejoice in their King.
3 Let them praise his name with dancing,
making melody to him with tambourine and lyre.
4 For the Lord takes pleasure in his people;
he adorns the humble with victory.
5 Let the faithful exult in glory;
let them sing for joy on their couches.
6 Let the high praises of God be in their throats
and two-edged swords in their hands,
7 to execute vengeance on the nations
and punishment on the peoples,
8 to bind their kings with fetters
and their nobles with chains of iron,
9 to execute on them the judgment decreed.
This is glory for all his faithful ones.
Praise the Lord!
************************************
God loves each of us as if there were only one of us. —Augustine
Saturday, June 28, 2014
Just looking
Our Daily Bread
How many times in your life has someone tried to "help" you at a department store, furniture store or electronics store? We usually try to smile weakly (without being terse) and say "I am just looking".
While reading the devotional today, I thought about how many people may be doing the same thing with our churches? Instead of "just looking" they could probably say "just watching" to see what we will do during the ups and downs of our lives. The responses to our lives could be varied. Some folks might ask us for assistance or ask questions, much like we do at the electronics store when we are not sure about a certain model or feature. Or, they could treat us like some religious groups that go door to door and say "We don't want any!" ha! Displaying the Christina life with all the ups, downs, joy, peace and growing pains is something most folks can understand since most lives have the same components. What they don't understand is that we have the God of all Creation at our side! Praise God!
Lord, please help us truly show others the joy and peace that only you can give!
Simply Saturday
I heard a new Matthew West song this week and had to purchase it on iTunes. Being a "doer", it spoke to me! Here are the lyrics:
"Do Something" [video]
I woke up this morning
Saw a world full of trouble now
Thought, how’d we ever get so far down
How’s it ever gonna turn around
So I turned my eyes to Heaven
I thought, “God, why don’t You do something?”
Well, I just couldn’t bear the thought of
People living in poverty
Children sold into slavery
The thought disgusted me
So, I shook my fist at Heaven
Said, “God, why don’t You do something?”
He said, “I did, I created you”
If not us, then who
If not me and you
Right now, it’s time for us to do something
If not now, then when
Will we see an end
To all this pain
It’s not enough to do nothing
It’s time for us to do something
I’m so tired of talking
About how we are God’s hands and feet
But it’s easier to say than to be
Live like angels of apathy who tell ourselves
It’s alright, “somebody else will do something”
Well, I don’t know about you
But I’m sick and tired of life with no desire
I don’t want a flame, I want a fire
I wanna be the one who stands up and says,
“I’m gonna do something”
If not us, then who
If not me and you
Right now, it’s time for us to do something
If not now, then when
Will we see an end
To all this pain
It’s not enough to do nothing
It’s time for us to do something
We are the salt of the earth
We are a city on a hill (shine shine, shine shine)
But we’re never gonna change the world
By standing still
No we won’t stand still
No we won’t stand still
No we won’t stand still
If not us, then who
If not me and you
Right now, it’s time for us to do something
If not now, then when
Will we see an end
To all this pain
It’s not enough to do nothing
It’s time for us to do something [x3]
**************************************
Revivals greatest enemy is Pride, and the only bride Revival will walk down the isle with is Humility. Humility will deny herself the right of self gratification rather than turn away from God to fulfill her own pleasures, and she will not allow herself to receive the praise that should go to another (especially the Lord). Finally, she will rush to renounce herself, rather than sitting quietly when her Lord is robed of His glory. Oh, Father, we are so unlike her, but may we meet her so that we may walk down the isle to Revival and true Christlikeness? from Jonathan Edwards on Humility in Religious Affections
How many times in your life has someone tried to "help" you at a department store, furniture store or electronics store? We usually try to smile weakly (without being terse) and say "I am just looking".
While reading the devotional today, I thought about how many people may be doing the same thing with our churches? Instead of "just looking" they could probably say "just watching" to see what we will do during the ups and downs of our lives. The responses to our lives could be varied. Some folks might ask us for assistance or ask questions, much like we do at the electronics store when we are not sure about a certain model or feature. Or, they could treat us like some religious groups that go door to door and say "We don't want any!" ha! Displaying the Christina life with all the ups, downs, joy, peace and growing pains is something most folks can understand since most lives have the same components. What they don't understand is that we have the God of all Creation at our side! Praise God!
Lord, please help us truly show others the joy and peace that only you can give!
Simply Saturday
I heard a new Matthew West song this week and had to purchase it on iTunes. Being a "doer", it spoke to me! Here are the lyrics:
"Do Something" [video]
I woke up this morning
Saw a world full of trouble now
Thought, how’d we ever get so far down
How’s it ever gonna turn around
So I turned my eyes to Heaven
I thought, “God, why don’t You do something?”
Well, I just couldn’t bear the thought of
People living in poverty
Children sold into slavery
The thought disgusted me
So, I shook my fist at Heaven
Said, “God, why don’t You do something?”
He said, “I did, I created you”
If not us, then who
If not me and you
Right now, it’s time for us to do something
If not now, then when
Will we see an end
To all this pain
It’s not enough to do nothing
It’s time for us to do something
I’m so tired of talking
About how we are God’s hands and feet
But it’s easier to say than to be
Live like angels of apathy who tell ourselves
It’s alright, “somebody else will do something”
Well, I don’t know about you
But I’m sick and tired of life with no desire
I don’t want a flame, I want a fire
I wanna be the one who stands up and says,
“I’m gonna do something”
If not us, then who
If not me and you
Right now, it’s time for us to do something
If not now, then when
Will we see an end
To all this pain
It’s not enough to do nothing
It’s time for us to do something
We are the salt of the earth
We are a city on a hill (shine shine, shine shine)
But we’re never gonna change the world
By standing still
No we won’t stand still
No we won’t stand still
No we won’t stand still
If not us, then who
If not me and you
Right now, it’s time for us to do something
If not now, then when
Will we see an end
To all this pain
It’s not enough to do nothing
It’s time for us to do something [x3]
Revivals greatest enemy is Pride, and the only bride Revival will walk down the isle with is Humility. Humility will deny herself the right of self gratification rather than turn away from God to fulfill her own pleasures, and she will not allow herself to receive the praise that should go to another (especially the Lord). Finally, she will rush to renounce herself, rather than sitting quietly when her Lord is robed of His glory. Oh, Father, we are so unlike her, but may we meet her so that we may walk down the isle to Revival and true Christlikeness? from Jonathan Edwards on Humility in Religious Affections
Friday, June 27, 2014
Our life GPS
Our Daily Bread
Men are notorious for not asking directions, especially when we are lost. It appears that men and women have a different sense of direction. Men have a more innate sense of direction. Women tend to rely more on landmarks for location and direction. That can lead to fun and games when on a trip! ha!
Regardless of your gender, our life GPS are still the same - God's Word and the Holy Spirit. Regardless of our innate sense of direction or landmarks in our lives, we can rely on these resources to lead us to where we need to go! Always remember, it is not just about the destination. The journey, my friends, it is all about the journey! Make the most of it. That is the best part of living in Christ!
Lord, you lead us on wonderful journeys through our lives if we just let you!
Foodie Friday
The Explorers Club
I mentioned an interesting restaurant to my roommate last night. He was "all in"! Ha! It is the Explorers Club in Merion Village. I have eaten once or twice before. I also have many friends who have eaten there. I looked at the daily special - Mexico. The empanadas sounded great, but the main dish and the dessert did not, so I went with the meatloaf with mushroom-garlic brown gravy and the habanero pepper mashed potatoes. The meatloaf was pretty good. Very lean. Very tasty with the gravy. The mashed potatoes were very tasty. I also had a side salad to start with mango habanero sauce/dressing. Very, very tasty!
My roommate had the hummus quinoa patty sandwich with hunky slaw. He found a combination of hot sauces to complement the sandwich. He is much pickier than I am so I was glad he liked it.
We finished dinner with a stop by Jenis splendid ice cream. Mmmmmmm!
Here the link to the Explorers Club. Check it out! In addition to the daily and monthly menus, they also have a food truck!
***********************************
We too can know this God and be assured of His presence. He has revealed Himself in His creation and in His Word. As we ask Him to make Himself known to us, we’ll learn that He is even more than the owner and creator of everything! - Our Daily Bread web site
Men are notorious for not asking directions, especially when we are lost. It appears that men and women have a different sense of direction. Men have a more innate sense of direction. Women tend to rely more on landmarks for location and direction. That can lead to fun and games when on a trip! ha!
Regardless of your gender, our life GPS are still the same - God's Word and the Holy Spirit. Regardless of our innate sense of direction or landmarks in our lives, we can rely on these resources to lead us to where we need to go! Always remember, it is not just about the destination. The journey, my friends, it is all about the journey! Make the most of it. That is the best part of living in Christ!
Lord, you lead us on wonderful journeys through our lives if we just let you!
Foodie Friday
The Explorers Club
I mentioned an interesting restaurant to my roommate last night. He was "all in"! Ha! It is the Explorers Club in Merion Village. I have eaten once or twice before. I also have many friends who have eaten there. I looked at the daily special - Mexico. The empanadas sounded great, but the main dish and the dessert did not, so I went with the meatloaf with mushroom-garlic brown gravy and the habanero pepper mashed potatoes. The meatloaf was pretty good. Very lean. Very tasty with the gravy. The mashed potatoes were very tasty. I also had a side salad to start with mango habanero sauce/dressing. Very, very tasty!
My roommate had the hummus quinoa patty sandwich with hunky slaw. He found a combination of hot sauces to complement the sandwich. He is much pickier than I am so I was glad he liked it.
We finished dinner with a stop by Jenis splendid ice cream. Mmmmmmm!
Here the link to the Explorers Club. Check it out! In addition to the daily and monthly menus, they also have a food truck!
***********************************
We too can know this God and be assured of His presence. He has revealed Himself in His creation and in His Word. As we ask Him to make Himself known to us, we’ll learn that He is even more than the owner and creator of everything! - Our Daily Bread web site
Thursday, June 26, 2014
AAA for the Soul
Our Daily Bread
There are lots of "Chicken Soup" types of books like Chicken Soup for the Soul and other. Each is written to uplift and encourage. Maybe even give some direction.
We have a book called the Bible that is like AAA for the Soul! No, not Alcoholics Anonymous! The American Automobile Association has been providing directions, discounts and roadside assitance for decades! Do you see the resemblance between our Bible and the Holy Spirit and the services that AAA provides? Instead of getting driving directions to Albuquerque, we can get directions for our daily lives! We can even get life-side assistance! ha! The best part is that we have a lifetime membership with after-life benefits! Woohooo!
Lord, we thank you for being the AAA for our Souls. We love you and praise your Holy Name!
Technology Thursday
This might be a good idea if you do a lot of web browsing and want to protect your identify more thoroughly.
How to Anonymize Everything You Do Online [link]
Andy Greenberg, Wired
One year after the first revelations of Edward Snowden, cryptography has shifted from an obscure branch of computer science to an almost mainstream notion: It’s possible, user privacy groups and a growing industry of crypto-focused companies tell us, to encrypt everything from emails to IMs to a gif of a motorcycle jumping over a plane.
But it’s also possible to go a step closer toward true privacy online. Mere encryption hides the content of messages, but not who’s communicating. Use cryptographic anonymity tools to hide your identity, on the other hand, and network eavesdroppers may not even know where to find your communications, let alone snoop on them. “Hide in the network,” security guru Bruce Schneier made his first tip for evading the NSA. “The less obvious you are, the safer you are.”
Though it’s hardly the sole means of achieving online anonymity, the software known as Tor has become the most vouchsafed and developer-friendly method for using the Internet incognito. The free and open source program triple-encrypts your traffic and bounces it through computers around the globe, making tracing it vastly more difficult. Most Tor users know the program as a way to anonymously browse the Web. But it’s much more. In fact, Tor’s software runs in the background of your operating system and creates a proxy connection that links with the Tor network. A growing number of apps and even operating systems provide the option to route data over that connection, allowing you to obscure your identity for practically any kind of online service.
Some users, in fact, are experimenting with using Tor in almost all their communications. “It’s like being a vegetarian or a vegan,” says Runa Sandvik, a privacy activist and former developer for Tor. “You don’t eat certain types of food, and for me I choose to use Tor only. I like the idea that when I log onto a website, it doesn’t know where I’m located, and it can’t track me.”
Here’s how you can use the growing array of anonymity tools to protect more of your life online.
Web Browsing
The core application distributed for free by the non-profit Tor Project is the Tor Browser, a hardened, security-focused version of Firefox that pushes all of your Web traffic through Tor’s anonymizing network. Given the three encrypted jumps that traffic takes between computers around the world, it may be the closest thing to true anonymity on the Web. It’s also rather slow. But the Tor browser is getting faster, says Micah Lee, a privacy-focused technologist who has worked with the Electronic Frontier Foundation—one of the organizations that funds the Tor Project—and First Look Media. For the past month or so, he’s tried to use it as his main browser and only switch back to traditional browsers occasionally, mostly for flash sites and others that require plugins.
After about a week, he says, the switch was hardly noticeable. “It may not be entirely necessary, but I haven’t found it that inconvenient either,” Lee says. “And it does have real privacy benefits. Everyone gets tracked everywhere they go on the Web. You can opt of out of that.”
Email
The simplest way to anonymously send email is to use a webmail service in the Tor Browser. Of course, that requires signing up for a new webmail account without revealing any personal information, a difficult task given that Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo! Mail all require a phone number.
Runa Sandvik suggests Guerrilla Mail, a temporary, disposable email service. Guerrilla Mail lets you set up a new, random email address with only a click. Using it in the Tor Browser ensures that no one, not even Guerrilla Mail, can connect your IP address with that ephemeral email address.
Encrypting messages with webmail can be tough, however. It often requires the user to copy and paste messages into text windows and then use PGP to scramble and unscramble them. To avoid that problem, Lee instead suggests a different email setup, using a privacy-focused email host like Riseup.net, the Mozilla email app Thunderbird, the encryption plugin Enigmail, and another plugin calledTorBirdy that routes its messages through Tor.
Instant Messaging
Adium and Pidgin, the most popular Mac and Windows instant messaging clients that support the encryption protocol OTR, also support Tor. (See how to enable Tor in Adium here and in Pidgin here.) But the Tor Project is working to create an IM program specifically designed to be more secure and anonymous. That Tor IM client, based on a program called Instant Bird, was slated for release in March but is behind schedule. Expect an early version in mid-July.
Large File Transfers
Google Drive and Dropbox don’t promise much in the way of privacy. So Lee createdOnionshare, open-source software that lets anyone directly send big files via Tor. When you use it to share a file, the program creates what’s known as a Tor Hidden Service—a temporary, anonymous website—hosted on your computer. Give the recipient of the file the .onion address for that site, and they can securely and anonymously download it through their Tor Browser.
Mobile Devices
Anonymity tools for phones and tablets are far behind the desktop but catching up fast. The Guardian Project created an app called Orbot that runs Tor on Android. Web browsing, email and IM on the phone can all be set to use Orbot’s implementation of Tor as a proxy.
Apple users don’t yet have anything that compares. But a 99-cent app called Onion Browser in the iOS app store offers anonymous web access from iPhones and iPads. An audit by Tor developers in April revealed and helped fix some of the program’s vulnerabilities. But Sandvik suggests that prudent users should still wait for more testing. In fact, she argues that the most sensitive users should stick with better-tested desktop Tor implementations. “If I were in a situation where I needed anonymity, mobile is not a platform I’d rely on,” she says.
Everything Else
Even if you run Tor to anonymize every individual Internet application you use, your computer might still be leaking identifying info online. The NSA has even usedunencrypted Windows error messages sent to Microsoft to finger users and track their identities. And an attacker can compromise a web page you visit and use it to deliver an exploit that breaks out of your browser and sends an unprotected message revealing your location.
So for the truly paranoid, Lee and Sandvik recommend using entire operating systems designed to send every scrap of information they communicate over Tor. The most popular Tor OS is Tails, or The Amnesiac Incognito Live System. Tails can boot from a USB stick or DVD so no trace of the session remains on the machine, and anonymizes all information. Snowden associates have said the NSA whistleblower is himself a fan of the software.
For the even more paranoid, there is a lesser-known Tor-enabled OS called Whonix. Whonix creates multiple “virtual machines” on the user’s computer—software versions of full computer operating systems that are designed to be indistinguishable from a full computer. Any attacker trying to compromise the user’s computer will be confined to that virtual machine.
That virtualization trick underlines an important point for would-be anonymous Internet users, Lee says: If your computer gets hacked, the game is over. Creating a virtual sandbox around your online communications is one way to keep the rest of your system protected.
“Tor is awesome and can make you anonymous. But if your endpoint gets compromised, your anonymity is compromised too,” he says. “If you really need to be anonymous, you also need to be really secure.”
**********************************************
We too can know this God and be assured of His presence. He has revealed Himself in His creation and in His Word. As we ask Him to make Himself known to us, we’ll learn that He is even more than the owner and creator of everything! - Our Daily Bread web site
There are lots of "Chicken Soup" types of books like Chicken Soup for the Soul and other. Each is written to uplift and encourage. Maybe even give some direction.
We have a book called the Bible that is like AAA for the Soul! No, not Alcoholics Anonymous! The American Automobile Association has been providing directions, discounts and roadside assitance for decades! Do you see the resemblance between our Bible and the Holy Spirit and the services that AAA provides? Instead of getting driving directions to Albuquerque, we can get directions for our daily lives! We can even get life-side assistance! ha! The best part is that we have a lifetime membership with after-life benefits! Woohooo!
Lord, we thank you for being the AAA for our Souls. We love you and praise your Holy Name!
Technology Thursday
This might be a good idea if you do a lot of web browsing and want to protect your identify more thoroughly.
How to Anonymize Everything You Do Online [link]
Andy Greenberg, Wired
One year after the first revelations of Edward Snowden, cryptography has shifted from an obscure branch of computer science to an almost mainstream notion: It’s possible, user privacy groups and a growing industry of crypto-focused companies tell us, to encrypt everything from emails to IMs to a gif of a motorcycle jumping over a plane.
But it’s also possible to go a step closer toward true privacy online. Mere encryption hides the content of messages, but not who’s communicating. Use cryptographic anonymity tools to hide your identity, on the other hand, and network eavesdroppers may not even know where to find your communications, let alone snoop on them. “Hide in the network,” security guru Bruce Schneier made his first tip for evading the NSA. “The less obvious you are, the safer you are.”
Though it’s hardly the sole means of achieving online anonymity, the software known as Tor has become the most vouchsafed and developer-friendly method for using the Internet incognito. The free and open source program triple-encrypts your traffic and bounces it through computers around the globe, making tracing it vastly more difficult. Most Tor users know the program as a way to anonymously browse the Web. But it’s much more. In fact, Tor’s software runs in the background of your operating system and creates a proxy connection that links with the Tor network. A growing number of apps and even operating systems provide the option to route data over that connection, allowing you to obscure your identity for practically any kind of online service.
Some users, in fact, are experimenting with using Tor in almost all their communications. “It’s like being a vegetarian or a vegan,” says Runa Sandvik, a privacy activist and former developer for Tor. “You don’t eat certain types of food, and for me I choose to use Tor only. I like the idea that when I log onto a website, it doesn’t know where I’m located, and it can’t track me.”
Here’s how you can use the growing array of anonymity tools to protect more of your life online.
Web Browsing
The core application distributed for free by the non-profit Tor Project is the Tor Browser, a hardened, security-focused version of Firefox that pushes all of your Web traffic through Tor’s anonymizing network. Given the three encrypted jumps that traffic takes between computers around the world, it may be the closest thing to true anonymity on the Web. It’s also rather slow. But the Tor browser is getting faster, says Micah Lee, a privacy-focused technologist who has worked with the Electronic Frontier Foundation—one of the organizations that funds the Tor Project—and First Look Media. For the past month or so, he’s tried to use it as his main browser and only switch back to traditional browsers occasionally, mostly for flash sites and others that require plugins.
After about a week, he says, the switch was hardly noticeable. “It may not be entirely necessary, but I haven’t found it that inconvenient either,” Lee says. “And it does have real privacy benefits. Everyone gets tracked everywhere they go on the Web. You can opt of out of that.”
The simplest way to anonymously send email is to use a webmail service in the Tor Browser. Of course, that requires signing up for a new webmail account without revealing any personal information, a difficult task given that Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo! Mail all require a phone number.
Runa Sandvik suggests Guerrilla Mail, a temporary, disposable email service. Guerrilla Mail lets you set up a new, random email address with only a click. Using it in the Tor Browser ensures that no one, not even Guerrilla Mail, can connect your IP address with that ephemeral email address.
Encrypting messages with webmail can be tough, however. It often requires the user to copy and paste messages into text windows and then use PGP to scramble and unscramble them. To avoid that problem, Lee instead suggests a different email setup, using a privacy-focused email host like Riseup.net, the Mozilla email app Thunderbird, the encryption plugin Enigmail, and another plugin calledTorBirdy that routes its messages through Tor.
Instant Messaging
Adium and Pidgin, the most popular Mac and Windows instant messaging clients that support the encryption protocol OTR, also support Tor. (See how to enable Tor in Adium here and in Pidgin here.) But the Tor Project is working to create an IM program specifically designed to be more secure and anonymous. That Tor IM client, based on a program called Instant Bird, was slated for release in March but is behind schedule. Expect an early version in mid-July.
Large File Transfers
Google Drive and Dropbox don’t promise much in the way of privacy. So Lee createdOnionshare, open-source software that lets anyone directly send big files via Tor. When you use it to share a file, the program creates what’s known as a Tor Hidden Service—a temporary, anonymous website—hosted on your computer. Give the recipient of the file the .onion address for that site, and they can securely and anonymously download it through their Tor Browser.
Mobile Devices
Anonymity tools for phones and tablets are far behind the desktop but catching up fast. The Guardian Project created an app called Orbot that runs Tor on Android. Web browsing, email and IM on the phone can all be set to use Orbot’s implementation of Tor as a proxy.
Apple users don’t yet have anything that compares. But a 99-cent app called Onion Browser in the iOS app store offers anonymous web access from iPhones and iPads. An audit by Tor developers in April revealed and helped fix some of the program’s vulnerabilities. But Sandvik suggests that prudent users should still wait for more testing. In fact, she argues that the most sensitive users should stick with better-tested desktop Tor implementations. “If I were in a situation where I needed anonymity, mobile is not a platform I’d rely on,” she says.
Everything Else
Even if you run Tor to anonymize every individual Internet application you use, your computer might still be leaking identifying info online. The NSA has even usedunencrypted Windows error messages sent to Microsoft to finger users and track their identities. And an attacker can compromise a web page you visit and use it to deliver an exploit that breaks out of your browser and sends an unprotected message revealing your location.
So for the truly paranoid, Lee and Sandvik recommend using entire operating systems designed to send every scrap of information they communicate over Tor. The most popular Tor OS is Tails, or The Amnesiac Incognito Live System. Tails can boot from a USB stick or DVD so no trace of the session remains on the machine, and anonymizes all information. Snowden associates have said the NSA whistleblower is himself a fan of the software.
For the even more paranoid, there is a lesser-known Tor-enabled OS called Whonix. Whonix creates multiple “virtual machines” on the user’s computer—software versions of full computer operating systems that are designed to be indistinguishable from a full computer. Any attacker trying to compromise the user’s computer will be confined to that virtual machine.
That virtualization trick underlines an important point for would-be anonymous Internet users, Lee says: If your computer gets hacked, the game is over. Creating a virtual sandbox around your online communications is one way to keep the rest of your system protected.
“Tor is awesome and can make you anonymous. But if your endpoint gets compromised, your anonymity is compromised too,” he says. “If you really need to be anonymous, you also need to be really secure.”
**********************************************
We too can know this God and be assured of His presence. He has revealed Himself in His creation and in His Word. As we ask Him to make Himself known to us, we’ll learn that He is even more than the owner and creator of everything! - Our Daily Bread web site
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Good advice
Our Daily Bread
No matter where you look on the Internet, there are folks who are very willing to tell us how to live our lives. Have you ever noticed that? All kinds of advice sites or sites to tell you what to buy or what to wear or what people to hang around or what clubs or restaurants to go to and on and on and on. And if you don't take their advice, you are just not cool enough to live! Yikes! I like living!
There is one source of advice, wisdom, recommendations, etc that we often overlook -- Our God. He leads us through the reading of his Word, through prayer and praise and through following the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit. God's wisdom is best for us and for the way we are supposed to live our lives. As I joked with some friends, my life is not always "rainbows and unicorns", but it is far better than any life I could ever have imagined! Praise God!
Lord, you know our hearts and you know the ways we should travel in this life. Please help us follow!
Wellness Wednesday
Workouts for men of all ages
By Steve Steinberg, Special to CNN [link]
(CNN) -- Whether you're celebrating with your dad, kids or grandkids, Father's Day is a great reminder that fitness is key to a long and healthy life.
If you're already working out, that's great. If you're not hitting the gym regularly, start slow. Either way -- your age matters. Follow this fitness guide by decade to have healthy Father's Days for years to come.
If you're in your 20s
You're young. You're invincible (or at least as invincible as you're ever going to be.)
"This is when you should be running, jumping and playing," said Lecia Whitlock, an instructor at The National Personal Training Institute. "Test your body in any way that you can."
Think about explosive movements, plyometric drills and full-body movements -- like a lunge with an overhead dumbbell press -- that work more than a single muscle group. And have fun!
Challenge: Train for an extreme race like the Tough Mudder.
If you're in your 30s
All of a sudden, you've gone from celebrating Father's Day with your dad to celebrating it with your own kids.
"As you go from being an everyday athlete to being more of a weekend warrior, you need to be smarter about your workouts," advised Whitlock.
Now is the time to start laying down the foundation for healthy aging. You may still feel like a kid, but your joints know better. Work hard and play hard, but spend some extra time in the gym working on joint stability.
Do your chest presses with dumbbells while lying on a stability ball instead of using a barbell and bench, for example. This will help keep you injury-free on your weekend adventures.
Challenge: Train for a sprint triathlon.
If you're in your 40s
The demands at work have ratcheted up, and those kids who once gave you hand-drawn Father's Day cards now expect you to pay for four years of college. As a result, your stress levels are through the roof.
Physically, you need to do something to counteract the effects of sitting at your desk hunched over a keyboard for 10 hours a day. Tight hamstrings, hips and shoulders will lead to knee, back and neck problems if they're not addressed. And mentally, you have to figure out a way to deal with your stress levels.
A consistent yoga practice will open up your body, and studies have shown that mindfulness training can help reduce stress-based issues.
Challenge: Find time for yoga at least twice a week.
If you're in your 50s
If you've noticed some changes in, well, things, you're not alone.
"As you age, your testosterone levels start to decrease," said Whitlock. "Fortunately, one of the ways to naturally boost testosterone levels is by increasing muscle mass."
Studies show that strength training will not only help maintain testosterone levels, but will also help boost the levels of other sex hormones. In the gym, this means lifting like you were back in high school again.
As long as your form is good and your joints can take it, go heavier than you may have been lifting in the past and concentrate on the larger muscle groups -- your chest, back, glutes, quads and hamstrings.
Challenge: Lift heavy.
If you're in your 60s
You may not be as stable or as balanced as you used to be. Balance depends on three things: your vision, the canals in your inner ear and your body's own internal software. As vision and the workings of the inner ear deteriorate over time, you need to do as much as possible to work on your overall stability.
"Working on balance and body awareness will not only help keep you injury free in your day-to-day life," said Whitlock, "but if you're a golfer or a tennis player, you'll also see improvement on the course or the court."
Challenge: Start doing tai chi.
Tai chi helps arthritis pain, stiffness
If you're in your 70s, 80s or 90s
Just because you don't have enough fingers to count the number of kids, grandkids and great-grandkids you have doesn't mean you have to act like an old man -- or walk like one.
"People talk about 'losing the spring in your step' when you age, but that's actually what happens," cautioned Whitlock. As the calves get weaker, walking becomes more of a shuffle.
In addition to making you appear older, it's also a major cause of trips and falls, according to studies. To work your calves and improve your balance, stand on your toes for 10 to 15 seconds three or four times a day.
Challenge: Walk a mile every day.
*****************************************
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
No matter where you look on the Internet, there are folks who are very willing to tell us how to live our lives. Have you ever noticed that? All kinds of advice sites or sites to tell you what to buy or what to wear or what people to hang around or what clubs or restaurants to go to and on and on and on. And if you don't take their advice, you are just not cool enough to live! Yikes! I like living!
There is one source of advice, wisdom, recommendations, etc that we often overlook -- Our God. He leads us through the reading of his Word, through prayer and praise and through following the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit. God's wisdom is best for us and for the way we are supposed to live our lives. As I joked with some friends, my life is not always "rainbows and unicorns", but it is far better than any life I could ever have imagined! Praise God!
Lord, you know our hearts and you know the ways we should travel in this life. Please help us follow!
Wellness Wednesday
Workouts for men of all ages
By Steve Steinberg, Special to CNN [link]
(CNN) -- Whether you're celebrating with your dad, kids or grandkids, Father's Day is a great reminder that fitness is key to a long and healthy life.
If you're already working out, that's great. If you're not hitting the gym regularly, start slow. Either way -- your age matters. Follow this fitness guide by decade to have healthy Father's Days for years to come.
If you're in your 20s
You're young. You're invincible (or at least as invincible as you're ever going to be.)
"This is when you should be running, jumping and playing," said Lecia Whitlock, an instructor at The National Personal Training Institute. "Test your body in any way that you can."
Think about explosive movements, plyometric drills and full-body movements -- like a lunge with an overhead dumbbell press -- that work more than a single muscle group. And have fun!
Challenge: Train for an extreme race like the Tough Mudder.
If you're in your 30s
All of a sudden, you've gone from celebrating Father's Day with your dad to celebrating it with your own kids.
"As you go from being an everyday athlete to being more of a weekend warrior, you need to be smarter about your workouts," advised Whitlock.
Now is the time to start laying down the foundation for healthy aging. You may still feel like a kid, but your joints know better. Work hard and play hard, but spend some extra time in the gym working on joint stability.
Do your chest presses with dumbbells while lying on a stability ball instead of using a barbell and bench, for example. This will help keep you injury-free on your weekend adventures.
Challenge: Train for a sprint triathlon.
If you're in your 40s
The demands at work have ratcheted up, and those kids who once gave you hand-drawn Father's Day cards now expect you to pay for four years of college. As a result, your stress levels are through the roof.
Physically, you need to do something to counteract the effects of sitting at your desk hunched over a keyboard for 10 hours a day. Tight hamstrings, hips and shoulders will lead to knee, back and neck problems if they're not addressed. And mentally, you have to figure out a way to deal with your stress levels.
A consistent yoga practice will open up your body, and studies have shown that mindfulness training can help reduce stress-based issues.
Challenge: Find time for yoga at least twice a week.
If you're in your 50s
If you've noticed some changes in, well, things, you're not alone.
"As you age, your testosterone levels start to decrease," said Whitlock. "Fortunately, one of the ways to naturally boost testosterone levels is by increasing muscle mass."
Studies show that strength training will not only help maintain testosterone levels, but will also help boost the levels of other sex hormones. In the gym, this means lifting like you were back in high school again.
As long as your form is good and your joints can take it, go heavier than you may have been lifting in the past and concentrate on the larger muscle groups -- your chest, back, glutes, quads and hamstrings.
Challenge: Lift heavy.
If you're in your 60s
You may not be as stable or as balanced as you used to be. Balance depends on three things: your vision, the canals in your inner ear and your body's own internal software. As vision and the workings of the inner ear deteriorate over time, you need to do as much as possible to work on your overall stability.
"Working on balance and body awareness will not only help keep you injury free in your day-to-day life," said Whitlock, "but if you're a golfer or a tennis player, you'll also see improvement on the course or the court."
Challenge: Start doing tai chi.
Tai chi helps arthritis pain, stiffness
If you're in your 70s, 80s or 90s
Just because you don't have enough fingers to count the number of kids, grandkids and great-grandkids you have doesn't mean you have to act like an old man -- or walk like one.
"People talk about 'losing the spring in your step' when you age, but that's actually what happens," cautioned Whitlock. As the calves get weaker, walking becomes more of a shuffle.
In addition to making you appear older, it's also a major cause of trips and falls, according to studies. To work your calves and improve your balance, stand on your toes for 10 to 15 seconds three or four times a day.
Challenge: Walk a mile every day.
*****************************************
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Super glue for our hearts
Our Daily Bread
I learned an important lesson many years ago -- duct tape cannot be used to fix everything! Who knew? Ha! Sometimes you need Super Glue! yes! We all know that Super Glue doesn't always work either. There are other adhesives that are much more powerful and long lasting. Just be careful not to sticky your fingers together! Ouch! (not that I have ever done that...)
I accepted Christ when I was eight years old. My worst sins at that tender age were telling a few fibs and stealing a couple of pieces of chalk at school. My parents taught me that those behaviors were not appropriate. When I heard the story of Jesus in Sunday School. It made sense to me. I wanted him in my life. Yes, there have been some worse sins along the way that I will NOT discuss here, but I learned along the way that we are to try our best to avoid sins. We won't be perfect until we reach our eternal home, but we can do our best here on earth to make earth as much like heaven as possible!
Lord, the blood of your Son can bind our lives back together so we can be a useful vessel to share your love!
Teaching Tuesday
I have to admit that I STILL haven't started my summer reading. Yikes! I have had stuff to do! ha! The interesting thing is that God has been teaching me a lot about being around people this week. I am extrovert so I enjoy being around people. I don't always pay attention to the people around me the way I should. Here are some examples and some ways that God taught this old bear some things.
While helping some friends consolidate storage units last week, I was worried about how my body would react to the heat and lifting stuff. I quickly saw that I was not the one who I need to worry about. Two of my friends were absolutely miserable and were feeling the effects of the heat and humidity.
Leason reinforced: It is not always about me. Others are often in dire need of attention assistance.
I assisted with our church's homeless ministry on Thursday. I was surprised by some of the folks in the shelter -- some who were gay or identified with opposite sex. My heart immediately went out to them as I thought of going home to my cozy house and wonderful life. Being who you are isn't always easy nor is it always comfortable.
Lesson reinforced: Always be thankful. Never judge. Always do what you can to help others in need.
While walking in the Pride Parade on Saturday, I had several interesting things happen. First I walked with a 22 year old young woman who had just come out to her father. He invited her to walk in the Columbus Pride Parade with him and his group from work. She was overwhelmed by her father's response and invitation. We bonded for some reason and talked throughout the parade. At one point, she was so happy, so looked at me and said "Can I give you a hug?" Yes, of course!
Lesson learned: Always be open to new friendships. You never know who needs you and who will touch your life.
In the same group of folks was a gay couple who had been together for 45 years. They told me the story of their upcoming wedding. They originally planned to go to Hawaii to get married, their dream wedding. When discussing their plans with their closest friends, they found out that they couldn't make that trip due to health reasons. The couple changed their plans to get married in New York at Niagra Falls so their "family" could be there to share in that special event.
Lessons learned: I may not be able to share a 45th anniversary with a special man, but I can share what time I have with someone special and the folks that I consider my family when the time comes.
While walking along the parade route, I saw all kinds of people. The haters who think that homosexuality is against the Bible (though judging is definitely against what the Bible teaches and they do that very easily...). The sign that said "The Mennonite Church welcomes you". Wow! A fifty something woman who didn't look like someone who would wear a "I love my gay son" tshirt. So many couples, young and old, all different races, creeds, colors, and gender identities.
Lesson reinforced: God loves us ALL. We should love others as well!
*********************************************
You cannot say you've forgiven someone if in your heart you hope they are still suffering. Howerton
I learned an important lesson many years ago -- duct tape cannot be used to fix everything! Who knew? Ha! Sometimes you need Super Glue! yes! We all know that Super Glue doesn't always work either. There are other adhesives that are much more powerful and long lasting. Just be careful not to sticky your fingers together! Ouch! (not that I have ever done that...)
I accepted Christ when I was eight years old. My worst sins at that tender age were telling a few fibs and stealing a couple of pieces of chalk at school. My parents taught me that those behaviors were not appropriate. When I heard the story of Jesus in Sunday School. It made sense to me. I wanted him in my life. Yes, there have been some worse sins along the way that I will NOT discuss here, but I learned along the way that we are to try our best to avoid sins. We won't be perfect until we reach our eternal home, but we can do our best here on earth to make earth as much like heaven as possible!
Lord, the blood of your Son can bind our lives back together so we can be a useful vessel to share your love!
Teaching Tuesday
I have to admit that I STILL haven't started my summer reading. Yikes! I have had stuff to do! ha! The interesting thing is that God has been teaching me a lot about being around people this week. I am extrovert so I enjoy being around people. I don't always pay attention to the people around me the way I should. Here are some examples and some ways that God taught this old bear some things.
While helping some friends consolidate storage units last week, I was worried about how my body would react to the heat and lifting stuff. I quickly saw that I was not the one who I need to worry about. Two of my friends were absolutely miserable and were feeling the effects of the heat and humidity.
Leason reinforced: It is not always about me. Others are often in dire need of attention assistance.
I assisted with our church's homeless ministry on Thursday. I was surprised by some of the folks in the shelter -- some who were gay or identified with opposite sex. My heart immediately went out to them as I thought of going home to my cozy house and wonderful life. Being who you are isn't always easy nor is it always comfortable.
Lesson reinforced: Always be thankful. Never judge. Always do what you can to help others in need.
While walking in the Pride Parade on Saturday, I had several interesting things happen. First I walked with a 22 year old young woman who had just come out to her father. He invited her to walk in the Columbus Pride Parade with him and his group from work. She was overwhelmed by her father's response and invitation. We bonded for some reason and talked throughout the parade. At one point, she was so happy, so looked at me and said "Can I give you a hug?" Yes, of course!
Lesson learned: Always be open to new friendships. You never know who needs you and who will touch your life.
In the same group of folks was a gay couple who had been together for 45 years. They told me the story of their upcoming wedding. They originally planned to go to Hawaii to get married, their dream wedding. When discussing their plans with their closest friends, they found out that they couldn't make that trip due to health reasons. The couple changed their plans to get married in New York at Niagra Falls so their "family" could be there to share in that special event.
Lessons learned: I may not be able to share a 45th anniversary with a special man, but I can share what time I have with someone special and the folks that I consider my family when the time comes.
While walking along the parade route, I saw all kinds of people. The haters who think that homosexuality is against the Bible (though judging is definitely against what the Bible teaches and they do that very easily...). The sign that said "The Mennonite Church welcomes you". Wow! A fifty something woman who didn't look like someone who would wear a "I love my gay son" tshirt. So many couples, young and old, all different races, creeds, colors, and gender identities.
Lesson reinforced: God loves us ALL. We should love others as well!
*********************************************
You cannot say you've forgiven someone if in your heart you hope they are still suffering. Howerton
Monday, June 23, 2014
Rooming with an art major
Our Daily Bread
During one of my summers at college, I roomed with an art major. We got to know each other from some mutual friends and decided to hang out during the summer. He taught me a lot about art and painting and also about leading a colorful life! He was quite smooth with the ladies using lines such as "If a face can launch a thousand ships, then why can't I launch you?" ROFLMAO Yes, he was a character!
God used that man to teach me about my relationship with him. There were several times that I thought my roomie was the only person I could talk to. God called him away to the phone or work or something else so he could talk to me alone. Those alone times with God were the start of my "isolation training" that seems to work so well with my spiritual growth.
The roomie also taught me about new beginnings with each new painting or drawing. He could make it whatever he wanted. Our lives in Christ are like that. We can make our lives whatever we want in Christ. He gives us freedom to live in his will, which is the best fufullment of a human life! Start today. Start the painting or drawing or scupture of your life. Make it beautiful in the eyes of our Lord and Savior!
Lord, you gave us so much beauty in this world. Please help us live beautiful lives for you!
Movie Monday
Jersey Boys
I saw the movie version of the Broadway show Jersey Boys on Friday night. I loved the music of the show. I wanted to seew what they did with the movie. The actor who played Frankie Valli was the same guy who played the original Frankie on Broadway (who I got to see). His voice is amazing! The movie did a good job of capturing the ups and downs of the relationships between the guys in the group and their families. They were not always good times. I thought the movie was pretty good and MUCH cheaper than seeing the Broadway show!
I give this movie three bear paws. See it at the theater to get the best sound!
***************************************
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21 niv).
During one of my summers at college, I roomed with an art major. We got to know each other from some mutual friends and decided to hang out during the summer. He taught me a lot about art and painting and also about leading a colorful life! He was quite smooth with the ladies using lines such as "If a face can launch a thousand ships, then why can't I launch you?" ROFLMAO Yes, he was a character!
God used that man to teach me about my relationship with him. There were several times that I thought my roomie was the only person I could talk to. God called him away to the phone or work or something else so he could talk to me alone. Those alone times with God were the start of my "isolation training" that seems to work so well with my spiritual growth.
The roomie also taught me about new beginnings with each new painting or drawing. He could make it whatever he wanted. Our lives in Christ are like that. We can make our lives whatever we want in Christ. He gives us freedom to live in his will, which is the best fufullment of a human life! Start today. Start the painting or drawing or scupture of your life. Make it beautiful in the eyes of our Lord and Savior!
Lord, you gave us so much beauty in this world. Please help us live beautiful lives for you!
Movie Monday
Jersey Boys
I saw the movie version of the Broadway show Jersey Boys on Friday night. I loved the music of the show. I wanted to seew what they did with the movie. The actor who played Frankie Valli was the same guy who played the original Frankie on Broadway (who I got to see). His voice is amazing! The movie did a good job of capturing the ups and downs of the relationships between the guys in the group and their families. They were not always good times. I thought the movie was pretty good and MUCH cheaper than seeing the Broadway show!
I give this movie three bear paws. See it at the theater to get the best sound!
***************************************
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21 niv).
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Trusting God
Our Daily Bread
I can't count how many times in my life that God has reminded me to trust him. Since I am a planner and a doer (and also stubborn about some things), I often try to take things into my own hands. I remember one period like this recently when I felt like I was bearing the weight of the world on my shoulders. I felt like I prayed about it, but truth be told, I wasn't really trusting God about the situations. While driving into work that morning, a series of songs played from my iPod about God carrying us and God working everything to our good. OK, OK, I got it, at least for a few seconds! How soon we forget!
Paul talked about this same thing in the scripture passage from I Timothy 1:15-17. Even though we are human and have sinful human desires, God is faithful to forgive us and lead us in the ways we should go. Wow! What an amazing God! What Amazing Grace! Let us all remember with each breath the promises of God! Read the psalm below to praise him!
Lord, we can trust you. We can love you. We can serve you. Please help us look beyond ourselves to the things of your realm.
Psalm Sunday
Let's look at Psalm 148 today. It is a wonderful praise psalm with very vivid images of ALL things praising our God!
Psalm 148
Praise for God’s Universal Glory
1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights!
2 Praise him, all his angels;
praise him, all his host!
3 Praise him, sun and moon;
praise him, all you shining stars!
4 Praise him, you highest heavens,
and you waters above the heavens!
5 Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for he commanded and they were created.
6 He established them forever and ever;
he fixed their bounds, which cannot be passed.
7 Praise the Lord from the earth,
you sea monsters and all deeps,
8 fire and hail, snow and frost,
stormy wind fulfilling his command!
9 Mountains and all hills,
fruit trees and all cedars!
10 Wild animals and all cattle,
creeping things and flying birds!
11 Kings of the earth and all peoples,
princes and all rulers of the earth!
12 Young men and women alike,
old and young together!
13 Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for his name alone is exalted;
his glory is above earth and heaven.
14 He has raised up a horn for his people,
praise for all his faithful,
for the people of Israel who are close to him.
Praise the Lord!
********************************
Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” John 11:40
I can't count how many times in my life that God has reminded me to trust him. Since I am a planner and a doer (and also stubborn about some things), I often try to take things into my own hands. I remember one period like this recently when I felt like I was bearing the weight of the world on my shoulders. I felt like I prayed about it, but truth be told, I wasn't really trusting God about the situations. While driving into work that morning, a series of songs played from my iPod about God carrying us and God working everything to our good. OK, OK, I got it, at least for a few seconds! How soon we forget!
Paul talked about this same thing in the scripture passage from I Timothy 1:15-17. Even though we are human and have sinful human desires, God is faithful to forgive us and lead us in the ways we should go. Wow! What an amazing God! What Amazing Grace! Let us all remember with each breath the promises of God! Read the psalm below to praise him!
Lord, we can trust you. We can love you. We can serve you. Please help us look beyond ourselves to the things of your realm.
Psalm Sunday
Let's look at Psalm 148 today. It is a wonderful praise psalm with very vivid images of ALL things praising our God!
Psalm 148
Praise for God’s Universal Glory
1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights!
2 Praise him, all his angels;
praise him, all his host!
3 Praise him, sun and moon;
praise him, all you shining stars!
4 Praise him, you highest heavens,
and you waters above the heavens!
5 Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for he commanded and they were created.
6 He established them forever and ever;
he fixed their bounds, which cannot be passed.
7 Praise the Lord from the earth,
you sea monsters and all deeps,
8 fire and hail, snow and frost,
stormy wind fulfilling his command!
9 Mountains and all hills,
fruit trees and all cedars!
10 Wild animals and all cattle,
creeping things and flying birds!
11 Kings of the earth and all peoples,
princes and all rulers of the earth!
12 Young men and women alike,
old and young together!
13 Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for his name alone is exalted;
his glory is above earth and heaven.
14 He has raised up a horn for his people,
praise for all his faithful,
for the people of Israel who are close to him.
Praise the Lord!
********************************
Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” John 11:40
Saturday, June 21, 2014
Making time
Our Daily Bread
There was one very, very important thing I learned about myself (and others) during my Walk to Emmaus several years ago -- we make time for the things and people that are important to us. What, you might say? I am very good a "making time" for people! Did you hear what you just said? How can any of us "make time". When you tell someone "I don't have time", you are really saying "that is not a priority to me!". Yikes! I try to be honest now when people ask me to do something. Instead of saying "I don't have time", I gently say "I am sorry, but I have some other priorities that I need to attend to".
That was a long lead in to the point of today's devotional - time with our Savior. Shouldn't he be our top priority? Can't we evaluate our priorities and set aside time each day for prayer and Bible study. And I am not talking about "OK Jesus, it is 1:00 pm. You have until 2:00 to speak to me" Yikes! First, let us all make time for our God. Second, let us be in a constant state of openness to God to speak, not just when it is convenient for us! Ha!
On a personal note, I promised God during last year's EFM class that I would spend more time studying and reading than I did at the movies. Whoa! That is crazy talk! I don't watch much TV, so making time with God a higher priority than some silly movie was easy. I still forget at times. ;-(
Lord, our time is in your hands. Please help us use it wisely!
Simply Saturday
I may have used this song on a previous Saturday, but I thought it was very appropriate for this Pride Holiday. The song is God by Britt Nicole. So many LGBT folks don't really know how special they are in God's sight. We are all gold!
Gold [video]
Oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh
You were walking on the moon, now you're feeling low
What they said wasn't true, you're beautiful
Sticks and stones break your bones, I know what you're feeling
Words like those won't steal your glow, you're one in a million
This, this is for all the girls, boys all over the world
Whatever you've been told, you're worth more than gold
So hold your head up high, it's your time to shine
From the inside out it shows, you're worth more than gold
(Gold gold, you're gold)
You're worth more than gold
(Gold gold, you're gold)
Well everybody keeps score, afraid you're gonna lose
Just ignore they don't know the real you
All the rain in the sky can't put out your fire
Of all the stars out tonight, you shine brighter
This, this is for all the girls, boys all over the world
Whatever you've been told, you're worth more than gold
So hold your head up high, it's your time to shine
From the inside out it shows, you're worth more than gold
(Gold gold, you're gold)
You're worth more than gold
(Gold gold, you're gold)
So don't let anybody tell you that you're not loved
And don't let anybody tell you that you're not enough
Yeah there are days that we all feel like we're messed up
But the truth is that we're all diamonds in the rough
So don't be ashamed to wear your crown
You're a king you're a queen inside and out
You glow like the moon, you shine like the stars
This is for you, wherever you are
Oh, oh, yeah, yeah, oh, oh,
You're gold
This, this is for all the girls, boys all over the world
Whatever you've been told, you're worth more than gold
(So hold your head) So hold your head up high,
It's your time to shine
From the inside out it shows, you're worth more than gold
(gold gold, you're gold)
You're worth more than gold
(gold gold you're gold)
So don't be ashamed to wear your crown
You're a king you're a queen inside and out
*****************************************
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit - Romans 15:13
There was one very, very important thing I learned about myself (and others) during my Walk to Emmaus several years ago -- we make time for the things and people that are important to us. What, you might say? I am very good a "making time" for people! Did you hear what you just said? How can any of us "make time". When you tell someone "I don't have time", you are really saying "that is not a priority to me!". Yikes! I try to be honest now when people ask me to do something. Instead of saying "I don't have time", I gently say "I am sorry, but I have some other priorities that I need to attend to".
That was a long lead in to the point of today's devotional - time with our Savior. Shouldn't he be our top priority? Can't we evaluate our priorities and set aside time each day for prayer and Bible study. And I am not talking about "OK Jesus, it is 1:00 pm. You have until 2:00 to speak to me" Yikes! First, let us all make time for our God. Second, let us be in a constant state of openness to God to speak, not just when it is convenient for us! Ha!
On a personal note, I promised God during last year's EFM class that I would spend more time studying and reading than I did at the movies. Whoa! That is crazy talk! I don't watch much TV, so making time with God a higher priority than some silly movie was easy. I still forget at times. ;-(
Lord, our time is in your hands. Please help us use it wisely!
Simply Saturday
I may have used this song on a previous Saturday, but I thought it was very appropriate for this Pride Holiday. The song is God by Britt Nicole. So many LGBT folks don't really know how special they are in God's sight. We are all gold!
Gold [video]
Oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh
You were walking on the moon, now you're feeling low
What they said wasn't true, you're beautiful
Sticks and stones break your bones, I know what you're feeling
Words like those won't steal your glow, you're one in a million
This, this is for all the girls, boys all over the world
Whatever you've been told, you're worth more than gold
So hold your head up high, it's your time to shine
From the inside out it shows, you're worth more than gold
(Gold gold, you're gold)
You're worth more than gold
(Gold gold, you're gold)
Well everybody keeps score, afraid you're gonna lose
Just ignore they don't know the real you
All the rain in the sky can't put out your fire
Of all the stars out tonight, you shine brighter
This, this is for all the girls, boys all over the world
Whatever you've been told, you're worth more than gold
So hold your head up high, it's your time to shine
From the inside out it shows, you're worth more than gold
(Gold gold, you're gold)
You're worth more than gold
(Gold gold, you're gold)
So don't let anybody tell you that you're not loved
And don't let anybody tell you that you're not enough
Yeah there are days that we all feel like we're messed up
But the truth is that we're all diamonds in the rough
So don't be ashamed to wear your crown
You're a king you're a queen inside and out
You glow like the moon, you shine like the stars
This is for you, wherever you are
Oh, oh, yeah, yeah, oh, oh,
You're gold
This, this is for all the girls, boys all over the world
Whatever you've been told, you're worth more than gold
(So hold your head) So hold your head up high,
It's your time to shine
From the inside out it shows, you're worth more than gold
(gold gold, you're gold)
You're worth more than gold
(gold gold you're gold)
So don't be ashamed to wear your crown
You're a king you're a queen inside and out
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit - Romans 15:13
Friday, June 20, 2014
Remember this
Our Daily Bread
As I get older, I find myself remembering things less. My joke is "the more I learn, the more I forget. The more I forget, the less I know. So why learn?" LOL I write things down in a notepad app or Evernote or hand-written notes when needed. I find having the visual reminder (and sometimes an electronic reminder) ensures I will remember the important stuff!
After reading today's devotional, I think I should set a reminder to count my blessings and to thank God more regularly. Like the devotional said, we can get so caught up in the cares and worries of the day, that we easily forget where we came from and the things that God provided for us in the past. He clothes the flowers in the fields in all their glory. Don't you think he will do that and more for us? I love that passage of scripture. I need to remember it when I am worrying about my silly scenarios. Silly, silly scenarios!
Lord, we owe you rememberance, thanks and praise. That is the least we can do!
Foodie Friday
I have my monthly dinner group this Sunday. I thought I decided what dessert to take, then changed my mind at least five times this week! I think I will make the recipe below, a nice cool summer dessert. I usually add my own twist to each recipe. I will probably make this one with white chocolate pudding instead of vanilla pudding.
OREO Cream Pie [recipe]
what you need
36 OREO Cookies, divided
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
2 pkg. (3.4 oz. each) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding
1-1/2 cups cold milk
1 tub (8 oz.) COOL WHIP Whipped Topping, thawed
make it
CRUSH 24 cookies finely; mix with butter. Press onto bottom and up side of 9-inch pie plate.
CHOP remaining cookies. Beat pudding mixes and milk in large bowl with whisk 2 min. Stir in COOL WHIP and chopped cookies; spoon into crust.
REFRIGERATE 4 hours or until set.
********************************************
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit - Romans 15:13
As I get older, I find myself remembering things less. My joke is "the more I learn, the more I forget. The more I forget, the less I know. So why learn?" LOL I write things down in a notepad app or Evernote or hand-written notes when needed. I find having the visual reminder (and sometimes an electronic reminder) ensures I will remember the important stuff!
After reading today's devotional, I think I should set a reminder to count my blessings and to thank God more regularly. Like the devotional said, we can get so caught up in the cares and worries of the day, that we easily forget where we came from and the things that God provided for us in the past. He clothes the flowers in the fields in all their glory. Don't you think he will do that and more for us? I love that passage of scripture. I need to remember it when I am worrying about my silly scenarios. Silly, silly scenarios!
Lord, we owe you rememberance, thanks and praise. That is the least we can do!
Foodie Friday
I have my monthly dinner group this Sunday. I thought I decided what dessert to take, then changed my mind at least five times this week! I think I will make the recipe below, a nice cool summer dessert. I usually add my own twist to each recipe. I will probably make this one with white chocolate pudding instead of vanilla pudding.
OREO Cream Pie [recipe]
what you need
36 OREO Cookies, divided
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
2 pkg. (3.4 oz. each) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding
1-1/2 cups cold milk
1 tub (8 oz.) COOL WHIP Whipped Topping, thawed
make it
CRUSH 24 cookies finely; mix with butter. Press onto bottom and up side of 9-inch pie plate.
CHOP remaining cookies. Beat pudding mixes and milk in large bowl with whisk 2 min. Stir in COOL WHIP and chopped cookies; spoon into crust.
REFRIGERATE 4 hours or until set.
********************************************
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit - Romans 15:13
Thursday, June 19, 2014
BEST shepherd
Our Daily Bread
Have you seen the comparison charts at places like Sears or Lowe's that display three models of a tool or applicance, then rate them as Good, Better, and Best? I like those charts because they help me make better decisions faster!
I chuckled to myself when I read the passage about Jesus being the "Good" Shepherd. Frankly, I think Jesus would have to be placed in the BEST category, not Good or Better! LOL I loved the analogy of the sheep, Shrek, being weighed down by years of wool growth, to our spiritual lives that can sometimes be overgrown with our sin and bad decisions. I know I made a lot of bad decisions over the years. I am thankful that every one of them didn't end as badly as they could have. The BEST Shepherd sheared away so much baggage that I accumlated. How about you?
Lord, our BEST Shepherd, we thank you and praise you for leading your sheep to green pastures and beside still waters!
Wellness Wednesday
Simple tips to avoid getting hacked
By James O'Toole [article]
With all the recent news about government surveillance, corporate cybersecurity failures and large-scale hacks, the task of keeping yourself safe online can seem daunting.
There's probably no way to completely avoid the NSA if they've got you in their sights, but fortunately, there are a number of simple things you can do right now to better protect yourself against hackers and unwanted surveillance. Here are a few:
HTTPS Everywhere:
This is an easy one: Install the HTTPS Everywhere browser extension.
HTTPS Everywhere is an add-on for Chrome, Firefox and Opera that ensures that whenever you visit a site that offers data encryption, you're using it.
You can check whether a site offers encryption by looking at the address in your browser and seeing whether it begins with "https", as opposed to "http" or "www" (the "S" stands for "secure").
nsa https twitter
The extension can be downloaded for free from the Electronic Frontier Foundation.
Be diligent with software updates:
Another no-brainer. When companies discover vulnerabilities in their software that hackers can exploit, they send out security patches to solve the problem that appear in the form of pop-ups or download prompts.
nsa software update
It's definitely an annoyance to have to interrupt your work to download new software and restart your computer. But when the alternative could be getting hacked, it's a small price to pay.
Two-factor authentication:
Services like Facebook, Twitter and Google's Gmail offer a feature known as two-factor authentication, which works with your smartphone to add an extra layer of security when you're logging in.
After you've entered your password, you're prompted to enter a numeric code that's sent to your phone via text message or generated by a mobile app. That way even if someone steals your password, they won't be able to get into your account unless they also have your phone as well.
Lifehacker has a good list of sites that make this feature available.
Tape over your cameras:
Even when your webcam isn't in use, sophisticated hackers can activate it remotely, giving them a virtual peephole into your home. Fortunately, there's a low-tech fix for this -- just put a piece of electrical tape or a Post-It note over the camera when it's not in use.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation also sells these nifty webcam stickers if you want to avoid surveillance in style.
Stow your phone:
Just like they can access video from your webcam, hackers can listen in on your private activities by remotely activating the internal mic in your smartphone. Again, there's a low-tech fix: Keep your phone stored out of earshot in a separate room when you know you won't be using it.
Browse anonymously:
Without precautions in place, most Web users leave a digital trail that makes it easy for those with just a bit of technical sophistication to figure out every site they've visited.
The Tor web browser solves that problem by bouncing your communications to computers all over the world, preventing the sites you visit from learning your location and thwarting any third parties trying to monitor you. The software is maintained by a non-profit group, and is available for free download here:
Protect your email:
Securing your email requires more technical know-how, but it's possible using a tool known as GPG. Windows users can find a free download and instructions on setting up GPG here. Mac users, go here.
Getting GPG up and running can be a challenge if you're not ultra-tech savvy, but fortunately, the process of encrypting email should soon become easier. That's because Google is currently testing a new Chrome extension that it says "will make it quicker and easier for people to get that extra layer of security should they need it."
Safe photo sharing:
If you're an Android user, the app ObscuraCam offers a great way to share photos while protecting the privacy of everyone in the picture. The software makes it easy to blur the faces of people who might not want their photos online, and also strips out location data from the image files.
************************************
For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.- Psalm 117:2
Have you seen the comparison charts at places like Sears or Lowe's that display three models of a tool or applicance, then rate them as Good, Better, and Best? I like those charts because they help me make better decisions faster!
I chuckled to myself when I read the passage about Jesus being the "Good" Shepherd. Frankly, I think Jesus would have to be placed in the BEST category, not Good or Better! LOL I loved the analogy of the sheep, Shrek, being weighed down by years of wool growth, to our spiritual lives that can sometimes be overgrown with our sin and bad decisions. I know I made a lot of bad decisions over the years. I am thankful that every one of them didn't end as badly as they could have. The BEST Shepherd sheared away so much baggage that I accumlated. How about you?
Lord, our BEST Shepherd, we thank you and praise you for leading your sheep to green pastures and beside still waters!
Wellness Wednesday
Simple tips to avoid getting hacked
By James O'Toole [article]
With all the recent news about government surveillance, corporate cybersecurity failures and large-scale hacks, the task of keeping yourself safe online can seem daunting.
There's probably no way to completely avoid the NSA if they've got you in their sights, but fortunately, there are a number of simple things you can do right now to better protect yourself against hackers and unwanted surveillance. Here are a few:
HTTPS Everywhere:
This is an easy one: Install the HTTPS Everywhere browser extension.
HTTPS Everywhere is an add-on for Chrome, Firefox and Opera that ensures that whenever you visit a site that offers data encryption, you're using it.
You can check whether a site offers encryption by looking at the address in your browser and seeing whether it begins with "https", as opposed to "http" or "www" (the "S" stands for "secure").
nsa https twitter
The extension can be downloaded for free from the Electronic Frontier Foundation.
Be diligent with software updates:
Another no-brainer. When companies discover vulnerabilities in their software that hackers can exploit, they send out security patches to solve the problem that appear in the form of pop-ups or download prompts.
nsa software update
It's definitely an annoyance to have to interrupt your work to download new software and restart your computer. But when the alternative could be getting hacked, it's a small price to pay.
Two-factor authentication:
Services like Facebook, Twitter and Google's Gmail offer a feature known as two-factor authentication, which works with your smartphone to add an extra layer of security when you're logging in.
After you've entered your password, you're prompted to enter a numeric code that's sent to your phone via text message or generated by a mobile app. That way even if someone steals your password, they won't be able to get into your account unless they also have your phone as well.
Lifehacker has a good list of sites that make this feature available.
Tape over your cameras:
Even when your webcam isn't in use, sophisticated hackers can activate it remotely, giving them a virtual peephole into your home. Fortunately, there's a low-tech fix for this -- just put a piece of electrical tape or a Post-It note over the camera when it's not in use.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation also sells these nifty webcam stickers if you want to avoid surveillance in style.
Stow your phone:
Just like they can access video from your webcam, hackers can listen in on your private activities by remotely activating the internal mic in your smartphone. Again, there's a low-tech fix: Keep your phone stored out of earshot in a separate room when you know you won't be using it.
Browse anonymously:
Without precautions in place, most Web users leave a digital trail that makes it easy for those with just a bit of technical sophistication to figure out every site they've visited.
The Tor web browser solves that problem by bouncing your communications to computers all over the world, preventing the sites you visit from learning your location and thwarting any third parties trying to monitor you. The software is maintained by a non-profit group, and is available for free download here:
Protect your email:
Securing your email requires more technical know-how, but it's possible using a tool known as GPG. Windows users can find a free download and instructions on setting up GPG here. Mac users, go here.
Getting GPG up and running can be a challenge if you're not ultra-tech savvy, but fortunately, the process of encrypting email should soon become easier. That's because Google is currently testing a new Chrome extension that it says "will make it quicker and easier for people to get that extra layer of security should they need it."
Safe photo sharing:
If you're an Android user, the app ObscuraCam offers a great way to share photos while protecting the privacy of everyone in the picture. The software makes it easy to blur the faces of people who might not want their photos online, and also strips out location data from the image files.
************************************
For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.- Psalm 117:2
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Welcoming smile
Our Daily Bread
I have a joke with some friends that we don't acknowledge each other when seen out in public "Don't make eye contact, don't make eye contact" is what we mumble to each other as we avert our eyes. We end up smiling and laughing and saying hello anyway since we are friends. I know. I am a silly old bear! LOL
I read a story on Facebook the other day where a girl asked her boyfriend why he smiled at everyone he met. He said "I want to be the person that smiles when someone really needs one, the person who says he is going to kill himself if at least one person doesn't smile at me today". Wow! I never thought of it that way! We are often reluctant to smile at someone, even at church. We are afraid that they might take it the wrong way (egads) or start an unwanted conversation (double egads). Whatever the reasons for NOT smiling, we have a million more that compel us to smile!
Lord, you have given us joy unspeakable. Please help us show it through our lives and our smile!
Wellness Wednesday
5 Surprisingly Simple Ways to Discover What You're Passionate About
[article] by Alicia T. Glenn
Do you ever wonder why you're doing what you're doing? Do you wake up and hate the situation you're in, and wonder what your end game is? If someone were to offer you a way out of your current work situation, would you take it?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have a problem -- no offense. You're lacking something integral. That something is passion. Passion is a burning desire that you can't get rid of even if you wanted to. Your life will not feel accomplished until you get on the path to pursuing your passion and doing work that excites and fulfills you.
Only you truly know what you're passionate about. This may be a scary thought (you've been warned), but you hold the power of turning your dreams into a reality. It's a scary thought because there's no more relying on mommy and daddy to tell you what's right. This is all you. You hold the power to control your destiny.
I'm going to share with you a few unconventional ways to go about discovering what you're passionate about. These may seem simple, but it's typically the simple things that escape us. We tend to over complicate things, and stress ourselves out when the answer is right under our noses.
I've personally pursued several ideas that I was not passionate about. I don't consider them a waste of time, but a learning experience that I have the privilege of sharing with you in hopes of saving you time.
1. Don't always look at the hard skills.
As human beings, we often feel as though we are not talented if we don't have any hard skills such as the ability to dance, sing, write, cook or play sports really well. We tend to forget about our soft skills, such as being a good conversationalist, or extremely organized, which are just as important. Are you easy to talk to? Maybe you're passionate about helping people solve their problems. That's a skill. Dig a little deeper to find out what makes you, you. Your skill, no matter what it is, is an asset to someone else because everyone needs help in some area of his or her life.
2. It's all about trial and error.
Finding what you're passionate about is just trial and error. Remember the Super Mario video games? If you do, you'll remember those green pipes that you would have Mario jump into without having any idea where it might take him. You just hope it's the right place. Well, the quest to finding your passion is similar. You try one idea, and sometimes it doesn't take you where you're trying to go. However, if you keep trying, one will eventually get you where you need to be. There will be times when you may legitimately think what you're doing is your passion, and then one day come to the realization that it's not what you're meant to do. You may feel like you wasted your time, but in reality you didn't. You followed a feeling and it didn't turn out to be right. That's completely okay. The most important thing is that you learned, and the next step is to refocus, and refocus quickly.
3. Retrace your steps. What did you like to do as a child?
After spending some time thinking about it, I realized that I've had a knack for entrepreneurship ever since I was young. I've had lemonade stands and garage sales, and even though I may not have made a dime, it encouraged me to find new ways of generating revenue, and ignited my passion for entrepreneurship. Even at a young age, I could never imagine myself working for anyone. What are some traits or interests you had as a child? Perhaps those are indications to what you're passionate about.
4. Pay attention to opportunities around you.
Look around to see what interests you. During my first couple of weeks in college I saw a flyer for a business plan competition, which instantly captured my attention. After getting my first taste of writing a business plan and coming up with an innovative idea, I discovered my passion. If you notice a job, internship, organization, etc., that captures your attention, listen to that. Go ahead a give it a shot. It may not be for you in the long run, but you will never know until you try.
5. Follow your gut instincts.
If you're unsure about the passion you choose to pursue, don't pursue it. Yes, I did say finding your passion is about trial and error, but that only applies to something you really have a genuine interest in. If it's something you're not sure about or that doesn't really excite you, but could possibly be something you're interested, I suggest not wasting your time. You need to have that burning desire or curiosity. If that burning desire isn't behind you, then keep it moving.
Too often, people base their decisions on what they think they're passionate about on what their friends or parents tell them. Don't get me wrong, your parents and friends may genuinely think that since you love to shop, you should start a fashion blog. That sounds like a pretty spot on recommendation. Therefore, you might take it, but is that really you? Is that really your passion? Or is it what you think you should do because you can't come up with anything else? Do not rush into something because it's what you think you're supposed do, because you will end up wasting your time.
You may not know what you should do, but follow your own path to discovering it, not someone else's. I tell you this in hopes that you learn not to force what you "think" could possibly be a passion of yours. When you have a burning desire for something and catch yourself reading blogs about that topic just for fun, that's how you know it's your passion.
To recap:
Don't always look at the hard skills.
It's all about trial and error.
Retrace your steps. What did you like to do as a child?
Pay attention to opportunities around you.
Follow your gut instincts.
Too often, fear and social pressure keep us from pursuing greater things. Will you let that happen to you? There's a reason you landed on this article. Perhaps you are an avid HuffPost reader, or maybe you just happened to stumble across this particular article. Whatever the case may be, you're here. What are you going to do differently to put yourself on a path to a more fulfilled life?
**************************************
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
I have a joke with some friends that we don't acknowledge each other when seen out in public "Don't make eye contact, don't make eye contact" is what we mumble to each other as we avert our eyes. We end up smiling and laughing and saying hello anyway since we are friends. I know. I am a silly old bear! LOL
I read a story on Facebook the other day where a girl asked her boyfriend why he smiled at everyone he met. He said "I want to be the person that smiles when someone really needs one, the person who says he is going to kill himself if at least one person doesn't smile at me today". Wow! I never thought of it that way! We are often reluctant to smile at someone, even at church. We are afraid that they might take it the wrong way (egads) or start an unwanted conversation (double egads). Whatever the reasons for NOT smiling, we have a million more that compel us to smile!
Lord, you have given us joy unspeakable. Please help us show it through our lives and our smile!
Wellness Wednesday
5 Surprisingly Simple Ways to Discover What You're Passionate About
[article] by Alicia T. Glenn
Do you ever wonder why you're doing what you're doing? Do you wake up and hate the situation you're in, and wonder what your end game is? If someone were to offer you a way out of your current work situation, would you take it?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have a problem -- no offense. You're lacking something integral. That something is passion. Passion is a burning desire that you can't get rid of even if you wanted to. Your life will not feel accomplished until you get on the path to pursuing your passion and doing work that excites and fulfills you.
Only you truly know what you're passionate about. This may be a scary thought (you've been warned), but you hold the power of turning your dreams into a reality. It's a scary thought because there's no more relying on mommy and daddy to tell you what's right. This is all you. You hold the power to control your destiny.
I'm going to share with you a few unconventional ways to go about discovering what you're passionate about. These may seem simple, but it's typically the simple things that escape us. We tend to over complicate things, and stress ourselves out when the answer is right under our noses.
I've personally pursued several ideas that I was not passionate about. I don't consider them a waste of time, but a learning experience that I have the privilege of sharing with you in hopes of saving you time.
1. Don't always look at the hard skills.
As human beings, we often feel as though we are not talented if we don't have any hard skills such as the ability to dance, sing, write, cook or play sports really well. We tend to forget about our soft skills, such as being a good conversationalist, or extremely organized, which are just as important. Are you easy to talk to? Maybe you're passionate about helping people solve their problems. That's a skill. Dig a little deeper to find out what makes you, you. Your skill, no matter what it is, is an asset to someone else because everyone needs help in some area of his or her life.
2. It's all about trial and error.
Finding what you're passionate about is just trial and error. Remember the Super Mario video games? If you do, you'll remember those green pipes that you would have Mario jump into without having any idea where it might take him. You just hope it's the right place. Well, the quest to finding your passion is similar. You try one idea, and sometimes it doesn't take you where you're trying to go. However, if you keep trying, one will eventually get you where you need to be. There will be times when you may legitimately think what you're doing is your passion, and then one day come to the realization that it's not what you're meant to do. You may feel like you wasted your time, but in reality you didn't. You followed a feeling and it didn't turn out to be right. That's completely okay. The most important thing is that you learned, and the next step is to refocus, and refocus quickly.
3. Retrace your steps. What did you like to do as a child?
After spending some time thinking about it, I realized that I've had a knack for entrepreneurship ever since I was young. I've had lemonade stands and garage sales, and even though I may not have made a dime, it encouraged me to find new ways of generating revenue, and ignited my passion for entrepreneurship. Even at a young age, I could never imagine myself working for anyone. What are some traits or interests you had as a child? Perhaps those are indications to what you're passionate about.
4. Pay attention to opportunities around you.
Look around to see what interests you. During my first couple of weeks in college I saw a flyer for a business plan competition, which instantly captured my attention. After getting my first taste of writing a business plan and coming up with an innovative idea, I discovered my passion. If you notice a job, internship, organization, etc., that captures your attention, listen to that. Go ahead a give it a shot. It may not be for you in the long run, but you will never know until you try.
5. Follow your gut instincts.
If you're unsure about the passion you choose to pursue, don't pursue it. Yes, I did say finding your passion is about trial and error, but that only applies to something you really have a genuine interest in. If it's something you're not sure about or that doesn't really excite you, but could possibly be something you're interested, I suggest not wasting your time. You need to have that burning desire or curiosity. If that burning desire isn't behind you, then keep it moving.
Too often, people base their decisions on what they think they're passionate about on what their friends or parents tell them. Don't get me wrong, your parents and friends may genuinely think that since you love to shop, you should start a fashion blog. That sounds like a pretty spot on recommendation. Therefore, you might take it, but is that really you? Is that really your passion? Or is it what you think you should do because you can't come up with anything else? Do not rush into something because it's what you think you're supposed do, because you will end up wasting your time.
You may not know what you should do, but follow your own path to discovering it, not someone else's. I tell you this in hopes that you learn not to force what you "think" could possibly be a passion of yours. When you have a burning desire for something and catch yourself reading blogs about that topic just for fun, that's how you know it's your passion.
To recap:
Don't always look at the hard skills.
It's all about trial and error.
Retrace your steps. What did you like to do as a child?
Pay attention to opportunities around you.
Follow your gut instincts.
Too often, fear and social pressure keep us from pursuing greater things. Will you let that happen to you? There's a reason you landed on this article. Perhaps you are an avid HuffPost reader, or maybe you just happened to stumble across this particular article. Whatever the case may be, you're here. What are you going to do differently to put yourself on a path to a more fulfilled life?
**************************************
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. - 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Brighter than Vegas
Our Daily Bread
Have you ever been to Times Square or the strip in Las Vegas? I was amazed at all the lights and the brightness of those lights at nighttime! Wow! I saw the Vegas strip from the 25th floor of a hotel. It was amazing seeing all those lights in the middle of a bleak desert!
I thought of these places when reading the devotional. It talks about the light of God and how it is brighter than anything we could imagine. No sunglasses needed in heaven! Not only does that light lead us in this life, but we will live for eternity in its glow! Praise God!
Lord Jesus, you are the light of this world...and the world to come!
Teaching Tuesday
Plan B
So I haven't started my summer reading yet. I planned to start it over the weekend, but that didn't happen. I planned to read the first few chapters of the first book last night. That didn't happen either. What happens in the mind of a planner when things don't go as planned?
There are two things that can happen. The planner can get down on him/herself and plan and fail over and over again due to things that are probably out of his/her control. Or get down on him/herself because s/he didn't have the self-discipline to finish a plan instead of getting distracted. Hmmmmm. I don't think I have ever felt this way. ha!
The second thing is to give your plans and schedule over to God. I call it Plan B. When you get up in the morning, ask God to take over your calendar for the day. I say something like "God, I have stuff planned for today, but the things you have in mind for me to do are much more important. Please let me know YOUR plan for my day!" This practice made a big difference in my life. I dont' remember to do it every day. I try. This practice is a perfect example of God's ways being the best for us. I don't feel down about not getting the stuff done that I planned because I know I did something much more important!
How about you?
**************************************
Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God - William Carey
Have you ever been to Times Square or the strip in Las Vegas? I was amazed at all the lights and the brightness of those lights at nighttime! Wow! I saw the Vegas strip from the 25th floor of a hotel. It was amazing seeing all those lights in the middle of a bleak desert!
I thought of these places when reading the devotional. It talks about the light of God and how it is brighter than anything we could imagine. No sunglasses needed in heaven! Not only does that light lead us in this life, but we will live for eternity in its glow! Praise God!
Lord Jesus, you are the light of this world...and the world to come!
Teaching Tuesday
Plan B
So I haven't started my summer reading yet. I planned to start it over the weekend, but that didn't happen. I planned to read the first few chapters of the first book last night. That didn't happen either. What happens in the mind of a planner when things don't go as planned?
There are two things that can happen. The planner can get down on him/herself and plan and fail over and over again due to things that are probably out of his/her control. Or get down on him/herself because s/he didn't have the self-discipline to finish a plan instead of getting distracted. Hmmmmm. I don't think I have ever felt this way. ha!
The second thing is to give your plans and schedule over to God. I call it Plan B. When you get up in the morning, ask God to take over your calendar for the day. I say something like "God, I have stuff planned for today, but the things you have in mind for me to do are much more important. Please let me know YOUR plan for my day!" This practice made a big difference in my life. I dont' remember to do it every day. I try. This practice is a perfect example of God's ways being the best for us. I don't feel down about not getting the stuff done that I planned because I know I did something much more important!
How about you?
**************************************
Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God - William Carey
Monday, June 16, 2014
Children are the future
Our Daily Bread
It is more than a little ironic that a gay man with no experience with fatherhood is writing about children! The devotional touched me for a few reasons. First, I did some volunteer work at an orphanage in Louisville when I worked with the Louisville Jaycees. The kids were so great, you wondered why they all hadn't been scooped up by some lucky family. Of course, there were also some "challenging" children that seemed to always be in the middle of something or needed special attention. I was paired with one of those kids when we took them to a hockey game. I was told afterwards that I was a natural with children and should have lots of them! Oh boy...
Thinking of that experience and reading the Old Testament, I think about our relationship with our Heavenly Father. Like I mentioned yesterday, thinking of God as my Heavenly Father is important to me. When I think of our relationship, I realize that I am one of the "challenging" children much like the children of Israel. We read OT story after story of how God's children failed their God and Father. I laughed one day that God invented the "time out" when he had the children of Israel wander for forty years after the incident with the golden idols and Moses. LOL Let's think of their story then. Let's think about and pray about our story now. We are God's children of the present and the future!
Lord, you know us. You lead us. You put us in time out because of our disobedience. We thank you and praise you for having our best interests at heart!
Movie Monday
I saw three movies this week. Interesting flicks...
The Raid 2
This is a martial arts movie with some amazing fight scenes. It is very, very violent so only see it if stuff like that doesn't bother you. It is another one of those "that guy should NOT have lived through this movie" kind of adventure. It is just a movie.
I give this one two bear paws for the action scenes. Not much of a plot acting otherwise. It is at the dollar movies now, so splurge! ;-)
The Fault in Our Stars
A friend sort of challenged me to see this movie, otherwise known as a teenage girl tear jerker. I think I was the only guy who went to see it during my showing (there may have been one guy with his wife). Well, it was definitely a tear jerker! Without giving too much of the plot away, this is the story of two teenagers who are dealing with cancer and the aftereffects of cancer. They fall in love. You will have to see the movie to find out the rest! Take your tissues!
I give this movie three bear paws for the acting and beautiful story. No need to see it on the big screen unless you want to see it sooner rather than later.
The Monuments Men
This movie is based on actual historical events near the end of WWII. A team of experts were gathered to assist in saving as much of the art and historical items stolen by the Nazis. As they pulled back to Germany, the Nazis tried to destroy everything they could. The Monuments Men helped prevent hundreds of thousands of pieces from being destroyed. It has an all-star cast that seems to work well together.
I give this movie three bear paws. It is mercifully short (1.5 hours) and appears to be pretty accurate historically. It is also at the dollar movies.
************************************
The Bible is a like a "tweet" about God. We don't have enough characters available to tell of His glory! - Fitzpatrick
It is more than a little ironic that a gay man with no experience with fatherhood is writing about children! The devotional touched me for a few reasons. First, I did some volunteer work at an orphanage in Louisville when I worked with the Louisville Jaycees. The kids were so great, you wondered why they all hadn't been scooped up by some lucky family. Of course, there were also some "challenging" children that seemed to always be in the middle of something or needed special attention. I was paired with one of those kids when we took them to a hockey game. I was told afterwards that I was a natural with children and should have lots of them! Oh boy...
Thinking of that experience and reading the Old Testament, I think about our relationship with our Heavenly Father. Like I mentioned yesterday, thinking of God as my Heavenly Father is important to me. When I think of our relationship, I realize that I am one of the "challenging" children much like the children of Israel. We read OT story after story of how God's children failed their God and Father. I laughed one day that God invented the "time out" when he had the children of Israel wander for forty years after the incident with the golden idols and Moses. LOL Let's think of their story then. Let's think about and pray about our story now. We are God's children of the present and the future!
Lord, you know us. You lead us. You put us in time out because of our disobedience. We thank you and praise you for having our best interests at heart!
Movie Monday
I saw three movies this week. Interesting flicks...
The Raid 2
This is a martial arts movie with some amazing fight scenes. It is very, very violent so only see it if stuff like that doesn't bother you. It is another one of those "that guy should NOT have lived through this movie" kind of adventure. It is just a movie.
I give this one two bear paws for the action scenes. Not much of a plot acting otherwise. It is at the dollar movies now, so splurge! ;-)
The Fault in Our Stars
A friend sort of challenged me to see this movie, otherwise known as a teenage girl tear jerker. I think I was the only guy who went to see it during my showing (there may have been one guy with his wife). Well, it was definitely a tear jerker! Without giving too much of the plot away, this is the story of two teenagers who are dealing with cancer and the aftereffects of cancer. They fall in love. You will have to see the movie to find out the rest! Take your tissues!
I give this movie three bear paws for the acting and beautiful story. No need to see it on the big screen unless you want to see it sooner rather than later.
The Monuments Men
This movie is based on actual historical events near the end of WWII. A team of experts were gathered to assist in saving as much of the art and historical items stolen by the Nazis. As they pulled back to Germany, the Nazis tried to destroy everything they could. The Monuments Men helped prevent hundreds of thousands of pieces from being destroyed. It has an all-star cast that seems to work well together.
I give this movie three bear paws. It is mercifully short (1.5 hours) and appears to be pretty accurate historically. It is also at the dollar movies.
************************************
The Bible is a like a "tweet" about God. We don't have enough characters available to tell of His glory! - Fitzpatrick
Sunday, June 15, 2014
My Father's eyes
Our Daily Bread
It is a simple song with a simple prayer - Lord, my Heavenly Father, please help me see others through your eyes. See others with the look of love and acceptance just like my Father's Eyes. It is a powerful prayer on this Father's Day!
Most friends and family don't realize that I never met my biological father. My first stepfather adopted me and gave me his last name. He was married to my mother for about twenty years or so. I never really had much to do with him after the divorce for several reasons that I won't discuss here. I was fortunate over the years to have a couple father figures that I cherished. One of them passed away a few years ago. I didn't hear about his passing until a few months later so I missed the funeral. I hadn't felt like that since I lost my grandfather a few decades ago.
These things are the reason I refer to God as "he" and cherish calling him "Father". I can't believe sometimes that I have the honor and privilege of calling the Creator of Everything (and he is so much more than that) the term "Father". So Happy Father's Day to my Heavenly Father. I love you!
Lord, you are many things to us. Thank you for being our Heavenly Father!
Psalm Sunday
We are winding down our journey through the Psalms. We are looking at Psalm 147 today. It is a beautiful expression of who God is.
Psalm 147
Praise for God’s Care for Jerusalem
1 Praise the Lord!
How good it is to sing praises to our God;
for he is gracious, and a song of praise is fitting.
2 The Lord builds up Jerusalem;
he gathers the outcasts of Israel.
3 He heals the brokenhearted,
and binds up their wounds.
4 He determines the number of the stars;
he gives to all of them their names.
5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in power;
his understanding is beyond measure.
6 The Lord lifts up the downtrodden;
he casts the wicked to the ground.
7 Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving;
make melody to our God on the lyre.
8 He covers the heavens with clouds,
prepares rain for the earth,
makes grass grow on the hills.
9 He gives to the animals their food,
and to the young ravens when they cry.
10 His delight is not in the strength of the horse,
nor his pleasure in the speed of a runner;
11 but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him,
in those who hope in his steadfast love.
12 Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem!
Praise your God, O Zion!
13 For he strengthens the bars of your gates;
he blesses your children within you.
14 He grants peace within your borders;
he fills you with the finest of wheat.
15 He sends out his command to the earth;
his word runs swiftly.
16 He gives snow like wool;
he scatters frost like ashes.
17 He hurls down hail like crumbs—
who can stand before his cold?
18 He sends out his word, and melts them;
he makes his wind blow, and the waters flow.
19 He declares his word to Jacob,
his statutes and ordinances to Israel.
20 He has not dealt thus with any other nation;
they do not know his ordinances.
Praise the Lord!
**********************************
Living out of love for God and pleasing Him should be our heart’s desire. - Our Daily Bread
It is a simple song with a simple prayer - Lord, my Heavenly Father, please help me see others through your eyes. See others with the look of love and acceptance just like my Father's Eyes. It is a powerful prayer on this Father's Day!
Most friends and family don't realize that I never met my biological father. My first stepfather adopted me and gave me his last name. He was married to my mother for about twenty years or so. I never really had much to do with him after the divorce for several reasons that I won't discuss here. I was fortunate over the years to have a couple father figures that I cherished. One of them passed away a few years ago. I didn't hear about his passing until a few months later so I missed the funeral. I hadn't felt like that since I lost my grandfather a few decades ago.
These things are the reason I refer to God as "he" and cherish calling him "Father". I can't believe sometimes that I have the honor and privilege of calling the Creator of Everything (and he is so much more than that) the term "Father". So Happy Father's Day to my Heavenly Father. I love you!
Lord, you are many things to us. Thank you for being our Heavenly Father!
Psalm Sunday
We are winding down our journey through the Psalms. We are looking at Psalm 147 today. It is a beautiful expression of who God is.
Psalm 147
Praise for God’s Care for Jerusalem
1 Praise the Lord!
How good it is to sing praises to our God;
for he is gracious, and a song of praise is fitting.
2 The Lord builds up Jerusalem;
he gathers the outcasts of Israel.
3 He heals the brokenhearted,
and binds up their wounds.
4 He determines the number of the stars;
he gives to all of them their names.
5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in power;
his understanding is beyond measure.
6 The Lord lifts up the downtrodden;
he casts the wicked to the ground.
7 Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving;
make melody to our God on the lyre.
8 He covers the heavens with clouds,
prepares rain for the earth,
makes grass grow on the hills.
9 He gives to the animals their food,
and to the young ravens when they cry.
10 His delight is not in the strength of the horse,
nor his pleasure in the speed of a runner;
11 but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him,
in those who hope in his steadfast love.
12 Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem!
Praise your God, O Zion!
13 For he strengthens the bars of your gates;
he blesses your children within you.
14 He grants peace within your borders;
he fills you with the finest of wheat.
15 He sends out his command to the earth;
his word runs swiftly.
16 He gives snow like wool;
he scatters frost like ashes.
17 He hurls down hail like crumbs—
who can stand before his cold?
18 He sends out his word, and melts them;
he makes his wind blow, and the waters flow.
19 He declares his word to Jacob,
his statutes and ordinances to Israel.
20 He has not dealt thus with any other nation;
they do not know his ordinances.
Praise the Lord!
**********************************
Living out of love for God and pleasing Him should be our heart’s desire. - Our Daily Bread
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Someone watching over me
Our Daily Bread
I have never understood folks who spend hours and hours or even days on sand sculptures on a beach only to have the tide wash it all away! It reminds me of some folks that my former mother-in-law observed had "wasted lives".
The devotional talks about a rock sculpture, something way more substantial than a sand sculpture, that slid off the mountain where it was created. Folks in the surrounding area were upset and suddenly felt like they didn't have someone watching over them any longer. While reading the devotional, I thought of how things happen in our lives that make us question whether or not God is still watching over us. God is always stretching and growing us in our faith if we keep following him.
I think about how I acted and my attitudes just five to seven years ago. I am so much different now. I am also very much the same. I need to keep letting God expand my faith by the things he allows to happen to me. Expand my faith through learning from my mistakes (which are many). Expanding my faith from talking and learning with others. We are not alone!
Lord, you never leave us alone. You only let us find our way to you when we lose it!
Simply Saturday
To correspond to the devotional title this morning, I found the lyrics and video to Russ Taff's song Rock Solid.
Rock Solid
This is it, I have made my mind up: no more both ways,
I have been dancing on the border, wasting my days,
Why was I flirting with a time bomb? – I know what’s right,
Starting now, no more compromising – I’m changing my life.
Got my feet back on the solid ground, oh.
Now I’m standing rock solid,
Rock solid, no moving me,
I’m standing rock solid,
Rock solid, no-no moving me.
Don’t you find indecision tiring?
Why waste your time?
You could be standing here beside me, power in your life.
Got to get your feet on solid ground, oh.
Now I’m standing rock solid,
Rock solid, no-no-no-no moving me,
I’m standing rock solid,
Rock solid, no-no-no-no moving me,
I’m standing, rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, no-no-no-no moving me,
I’m standing rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, no-no-no-no moving me.
This is my life,
It’s all up to me now,
I choose to believe,
I’m choosing to believe.
Oh,
It’s my life,
Oh,
I believe.
I’m standing, rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, no-no moving me,
Rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, no moving me,
I’m standing, rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, oh no-no-no-no moving me,
I’m standing rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, no moving me,
(etc, fade)
***********************************
We can thank the Lord that through His grace and power, our past is forgiven, our present is changed, and our future is bright with hope for all He has prepared for us - Our Daily Bread, 10/13/13
I have never understood folks who spend hours and hours or even days on sand sculptures on a beach only to have the tide wash it all away! It reminds me of some folks that my former mother-in-law observed had "wasted lives".
The devotional talks about a rock sculpture, something way more substantial than a sand sculpture, that slid off the mountain where it was created. Folks in the surrounding area were upset and suddenly felt like they didn't have someone watching over them any longer. While reading the devotional, I thought of how things happen in our lives that make us question whether or not God is still watching over us. God is always stretching and growing us in our faith if we keep following him.
I think about how I acted and my attitudes just five to seven years ago. I am so much different now. I am also very much the same. I need to keep letting God expand my faith by the things he allows to happen to me. Expand my faith through learning from my mistakes (which are many). Expanding my faith from talking and learning with others. We are not alone!
Lord, you never leave us alone. You only let us find our way to you when we lose it!
Simply Saturday
To correspond to the devotional title this morning, I found the lyrics and video to Russ Taff's song Rock Solid.
Rock Solid
This is it, I have made my mind up: no more both ways,
I have been dancing on the border, wasting my days,
Why was I flirting with a time bomb? – I know what’s right,
Starting now, no more compromising – I’m changing my life.
Got my feet back on the solid ground, oh.
Now I’m standing rock solid,
Rock solid, no moving me,
I’m standing rock solid,
Rock solid, no-no moving me.
Don’t you find indecision tiring?
Why waste your time?
You could be standing here beside me, power in your life.
Got to get your feet on solid ground, oh.
Now I’m standing rock solid,
Rock solid, no-no-no-no moving me,
I’m standing rock solid,
Rock solid, no-no-no-no moving me,
I’m standing, rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, no-no-no-no moving me,
I’m standing rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, no-no-no-no moving me.
This is my life,
It’s all up to me now,
I choose to believe,
I’m choosing to believe.
Oh,
It’s my life,
Oh,
I believe.
I’m standing, rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, no-no moving me,
Rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, no moving me,
I’m standing, rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, oh no-no-no-no moving me,
I’m standing rock, rock solid, rock,
Rock solid, no moving me,
(etc, fade)
***********************************
We can thank the Lord that through His grace and power, our past is forgiven, our present is changed, and our future is bright with hope for all He has prepared for us - Our Daily Bread, 10/13/13
Friday, June 13, 2014
Safe
Our Daily Bread
I like action movies like the ones that Jason Statham stars in. A recent movie of his was called Safe. He befriended a young Asian-American girl that he protected from the bad guys. Several times during the movie she looked up with those big brown eyes and asked "Is it safe?"
I don't know about you, but there have been times in my life that I have asked God the same question. I have had a lot of health issues in my life. I don't blame God for my genes or for me not taking better care of my body over the years. Many of the health probelms I have faced were because of my bad eating habits and unhealthy exercise habits. Just like our sins, we can be forgiven, but we can't always escape the "wages" or consequences of our sins. Thank God that our salvation and redemption are safe with him. We are safe in his arms. We can rely on that safety for all eternity!
Lord, we thank you and praise you for your grace and love and eternal safety in your arms!
Foodie Friday
I had some chicken breasts over from another recipe and thought I would research something tasty to make with them. I found this dish. Not sure what I will serve it with -- probably some veggies like broccoli and carrots.
Bourbon Chicken Dish [recipe]
NGREDIENTS:
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup melted butter
1 1/2 cups dry bread crumbs
salt and pepper to taste
1/3 cup bourbon whiskey
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Place chicken in a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup and cheese and mix together. Pour mixture over chicken, then pour melted butter over top. Sprinkle with bread crumbs and season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour bourbon over all.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until browned and bubbly.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © 2014 Allrecipes.com
********************************
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit - Romans 15:13
I like action movies like the ones that Jason Statham stars in. A recent movie of his was called Safe. He befriended a young Asian-American girl that he protected from the bad guys. Several times during the movie she looked up with those big brown eyes and asked "Is it safe?"
I don't know about you, but there have been times in my life that I have asked God the same question. I have had a lot of health issues in my life. I don't blame God for my genes or for me not taking better care of my body over the years. Many of the health probelms I have faced were because of my bad eating habits and unhealthy exercise habits. Just like our sins, we can be forgiven, but we can't always escape the "wages" or consequences of our sins. Thank God that our salvation and redemption are safe with him. We are safe in his arms. We can rely on that safety for all eternity!
Lord, we thank you and praise you for your grace and love and eternal safety in your arms!
Foodie Friday
I had some chicken breasts over from another recipe and thought I would research something tasty to make with them. I found this dish. Not sure what I will serve it with -- probably some veggies like broccoli and carrots.
Bourbon Chicken Dish [recipe]
NGREDIENTS:
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup melted butter
1 1/2 cups dry bread crumbs
salt and pepper to taste
1/3 cup bourbon whiskey
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Place chicken in a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup and cheese and mix together. Pour mixture over chicken, then pour melted butter over top. Sprinkle with bread crumbs and season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour bourbon over all.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until browned and bubbly.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © 2014 Allrecipes.com
********************************
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit - Romans 15:13
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Overcomer
Our Daily Bread
How many times have we heard it or said it when someone asks us how we are doing - "I am surviving. Whew!" There have been many songs written over the years about not just surviving, but overcoming in this life! That's what I want to do! My recent favorite is Overcomer sung by Mandisa.
The devotional talks about the "Keep calm and " tshirts, mugs, posters, etc. that are everywhere now. I didn't realize that saying started in WW2! I missed that in my history classes. I think of how the disciples reacted to facing a violent storm at sea in a tiny boat. When Jesus awoke, he looked at them like "What? Seriously? I got this!" (that's my own translation, LOL). We can learn from that. As we all know, it is not always easy to "keep calm" when we are tossed by the winds and storms of life. Let us pray for each other that we can keep calm and praise God!
Lord, we know that you are always with us even when we can't feel you. Please help us keep calm and step out in faith!
Technology Thursday
Apple announcements
Apple opened their WWDC (developer conference) with their big announcement keynote presentation. This is always a news maker because it shows what will be next for the popular products. In summary, Apple will be bringing popular features from other platforms to iOS8 and will merge user interface features from the iPhone and iPad into the Mac OS 10.10 that will be available later this year. Very interesting reading if you like Apple products (or even if you don't). Click here to get to the two articles.
As a side note, I find it funny that critics don't say anything about Google or Samsung incorporating iOS features into their products, but Apple is accused of "copying" when they added some features available in Android to iOS8. Whatever. LOL
**********************************
We too can know this God and be assured of His presence. He has revealed Himself in His creation and in His Word. As we ask Him to make Himself known to us, we’ll learn that He is even more than the owner and creator of everything! - Our Daily Bread web site
How many times have we heard it or said it when someone asks us how we are doing - "I am surviving. Whew!" There have been many songs written over the years about not just surviving, but overcoming in this life! That's what I want to do! My recent favorite is Overcomer sung by Mandisa.
The devotional talks about the "Keep calm and " tshirts, mugs, posters, etc. that are everywhere now. I didn't realize that saying started in WW2! I missed that in my history classes. I think of how the disciples reacted to facing a violent storm at sea in a tiny boat. When Jesus awoke, he looked at them like "What? Seriously? I got this!" (that's my own translation, LOL). We can learn from that. As we all know, it is not always easy to "keep calm" when we are tossed by the winds and storms of life. Let us pray for each other that we can keep calm and praise God!
Lord, we know that you are always with us even when we can't feel you. Please help us keep calm and step out in faith!
Technology Thursday
Apple announcements
Apple opened their WWDC (developer conference) with their big announcement keynote presentation. This is always a news maker because it shows what will be next for the popular products. In summary, Apple will be bringing popular features from other platforms to iOS8 and will merge user interface features from the iPhone and iPad into the Mac OS 10.10 that will be available later this year. Very interesting reading if you like Apple products (or even if you don't). Click here to get to the two articles.
As a side note, I find it funny that critics don't say anything about Google or Samsung incorporating iOS features into their products, but Apple is accused of "copying" when they added some features available in Android to iOS8. Whatever. LOL
**********************************
We too can know this God and be assured of His presence. He has revealed Himself in His creation and in His Word. As we ask Him to make Himself known to us, we’ll learn that He is even more than the owner and creator of everything! - Our Daily Bread web site
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Sort of honest
Our Daily Bread
"The truth? You can't handle the truth!" is a famous line from the movie A Few Good Men. Jack Nichelson said this line to Tom Cruise while on the stand. I laughed to myself when I thought of the line while reading the devotional. How many times have we thought about telling God -- The truth! You can't handle the truth! LOL If I were completely honest with myself, I would admit that I have a tendency to over-exaggerate to make a point. I don't want to admit that... ;-/
Yes, God, the author of truth, knows everything about us, even the stuff that we don't want to admit in our prayers. We often mask our known sins under the category of "both known and unknown" when we pray, fully aware that we have stuff we need to confess. Stuff that we need to overcome. Stuff that we need to turn over to God. Yes, we CAN do this -- with God's help!
Lord, you know our hearts and minds better than we do. Please help us open them both to your Holy Spirit so we can truly love and serve you!
Wellness Wednesday
I saw this article and thought "I need all the help I can get!" Check it out.
10 Healthy Food Blogs That Make Eating Well Extremely Easy
The Huffington Post | By Julie R. Thomson
For many people, eating healthy is a chore. When the world is filled with glorious pastas, the cheesiest of pizzas, and layers of cake, why in the world would we ever bother eating a salad? Well, fellow gluttons, it's because not only is it a good idea for us to eat a vegetable every now in then, but also eating healthy is actually delicious -- no lie.
If you don't know where to begin when it comes to making healthy food choices -- or if you are already following a healthy, wholesome diet but need some new recipe ideas -- we have gathered together our 10 favorite blogs to turn to for fresh, seasonal, whole-grain cooking (and baking). These bloggers will make you forget all about the allure of double stuffed Oreos and kettle chips. Or at the very least, they'll make eating salads feel like a treat.
Duane: Check out the site for the ten food blogs! Click here.
***********************************
Let go, my friends! God will be there to catch you and hold you in his loving arms!
"The truth? You can't handle the truth!" is a famous line from the movie A Few Good Men. Jack Nichelson said this line to Tom Cruise while on the stand. I laughed to myself when I thought of the line while reading the devotional. How many times have we thought about telling God -- The truth! You can't handle the truth! LOL If I were completely honest with myself, I would admit that I have a tendency to over-exaggerate to make a point. I don't want to admit that... ;-/
Yes, God, the author of truth, knows everything about us, even the stuff that we don't want to admit in our prayers. We often mask our known sins under the category of "both known and unknown" when we pray, fully aware that we have stuff we need to confess. Stuff that we need to overcome. Stuff that we need to turn over to God. Yes, we CAN do this -- with God's help!
Lord, you know our hearts and minds better than we do. Please help us open them both to your Holy Spirit so we can truly love and serve you!
Wellness Wednesday
I saw this article and thought "I need all the help I can get!" Check it out.
10 Healthy Food Blogs That Make Eating Well Extremely Easy
The Huffington Post | By Julie R. Thomson
For many people, eating healthy is a chore. When the world is filled with glorious pastas, the cheesiest of pizzas, and layers of cake, why in the world would we ever bother eating a salad? Well, fellow gluttons, it's because not only is it a good idea for us to eat a vegetable every now in then, but also eating healthy is actually delicious -- no lie.
If you don't know where to begin when it comes to making healthy food choices -- or if you are already following a healthy, wholesome diet but need some new recipe ideas -- we have gathered together our 10 favorite blogs to turn to for fresh, seasonal, whole-grain cooking (and baking). These bloggers will make you forget all about the allure of double stuffed Oreos and kettle chips. Or at the very least, they'll make eating salads feel like a treat.
Duane: Check out the site for the ten food blogs! Click here.
***********************************
Let go, my friends! God will be there to catch you and hold you in his loving arms!
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
The Day He Wore my Crown
Our Daily Bread
I have a large head. Not necessarily a "big head" meaning I am conceited, but rather a head that has a large circumference. Like my grandfather, I require a larger hat. I hate wearing a hat that is too tight!
Someone wore not a hat, but a crown for us. A crown of thorns. I am sure the Roman soldiers did not take time to measure the head of Jesus to ensure a correct fit. They wove together the sharp thorns and pressed it down hard on the head of our Lord. The crown of thorns that I should have worn to atone for my sins was born by the Son of God. The day he wore that crown for each of us. Several contemporary Christian artists sang the song. It was made famous by Sandi Patti [video].
Lord, you bore the brunt of our sin and shame so we could have the opportunity to love and serve God like never before. We thank you and praise you!
Teaching Tuesday
Education for Ministry (EfM)
I wrote about EfM a lot the past few years, but I am not sure I explained what the program entails. Here is some information from the EfM web site.
Every baptized person is called to ministry. The Education for Ministry (EfM) program provides people with the education to carry out that ministry. During the Service of Confirmation we ask God to "Renew in these your servants the covenant you made with them at Baptism. Send them forth in the power of the Spirit to perform the service you set before them." EfM offers an opportunity to discover how to respond to the call to Christian service.
The seminar group is the nucleus of the Education for Ministry program. A group consists of six to twelve participants and a trained mentor who meet weekly over the course of a nine-month academic year. These meetings are usually from two and a half to three hours in length.
Through study, prayer, and reflection, EfM groups move toward a new understanding of the fullness of God's kingdom. Through discussion and guided reflection, the seminars furnish an opportunity to deepen understanding of the reading materials. The seminar is supported by a life of prayer and regular worship. EfM groups are encouraged to develop a pattern of worship appropriate to their situations. Liturgical materials are furnished with the course materials.
It is a four year program. The first year focuses on the Old Testament. The second year focuses on the New Testament. The third year focuses on church history. The fourth year focuses on theological choices. Each group usually has a mixture of students from each year so a common theme or thread can be determined for theological reflection.
Classes start up again this Fall. Message me if you want a contact for the Columbus, Ohio area. I am sure there are groups available in your area regardless of where you live.
**********************************
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit - Romans 15:13
I have a large head. Not necessarily a "big head" meaning I am conceited, but rather a head that has a large circumference. Like my grandfather, I require a larger hat. I hate wearing a hat that is too tight!
Someone wore not a hat, but a crown for us. A crown of thorns. I am sure the Roman soldiers did not take time to measure the head of Jesus to ensure a correct fit. They wove together the sharp thorns and pressed it down hard on the head of our Lord. The crown of thorns that I should have worn to atone for my sins was born by the Son of God. The day he wore that crown for each of us. Several contemporary Christian artists sang the song. It was made famous by Sandi Patti [video].
Lord, you bore the brunt of our sin and shame so we could have the opportunity to love and serve God like never before. We thank you and praise you!
Teaching Tuesday
Education for Ministry (EfM)
I wrote about EfM a lot the past few years, but I am not sure I explained what the program entails. Here is some information from the EfM web site.
Every baptized person is called to ministry. The Education for Ministry (EfM) program provides people with the education to carry out that ministry. During the Service of Confirmation we ask God to "Renew in these your servants the covenant you made with them at Baptism. Send them forth in the power of the Spirit to perform the service you set before them." EfM offers an opportunity to discover how to respond to the call to Christian service.
The seminar group is the nucleus of the Education for Ministry program. A group consists of six to twelve participants and a trained mentor who meet weekly over the course of a nine-month academic year. These meetings are usually from two and a half to three hours in length.
Through study, prayer, and reflection, EfM groups move toward a new understanding of the fullness of God's kingdom. Through discussion and guided reflection, the seminars furnish an opportunity to deepen understanding of the reading materials. The seminar is supported by a life of prayer and regular worship. EfM groups are encouraged to develop a pattern of worship appropriate to their situations. Liturgical materials are furnished with the course materials.
It is a four year program. The first year focuses on the Old Testament. The second year focuses on the New Testament. The third year focuses on church history. The fourth year focuses on theological choices. Each group usually has a mixture of students from each year so a common theme or thread can be determined for theological reflection.
Classes start up again this Fall. Message me if you want a contact for the Columbus, Ohio area. I am sure there are groups available in your area regardless of where you live.
**********************************
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit - Romans 15:13
Monday, June 9, 2014
Generous
Our Daily Bread
Did you ever have a teacher that seemed to hand out criticism easily, but rarely complimented the students on a job well done. The expectation was that a job well done for all assignments. Expectations can be dangerous! ha!
While God has the highest expectations for us as his children, he also knows our limitations. We make bad choices at times. God lets us make those choices. We usually live with the consequences, however sometimes we learn from our mistakes and avoid serious consequences. Our God is just and merciful. He doesn't hold blessings out in front of us like a carrot to a mule! LOL He often blesses us when we feel like we don't deserve it! The least we can do is serve him and praise him to the best our abilities! Praise God!
Lord, we thank you for your love, mercy and generosity. We love you!
Movie Monday
After working sooooooo hard on Friday and Saturday, I went to the movies on the rainy Sunday afternoon! I saw Chef and Edge of Tomorrow.
Chef
I heard about this movie from a friend and had to see it. I also love to cook and am a little bit of a foodie, so I also loved that angle to the movie. The story is about a chef who is held back from the owner of a mildly successful restaurant. The chef wants to create a cool new menu for the visit of LA's top food critic, but the owner won't let him. A LOT of interesting things happen after that! There are many cool moments in the movie. I don't want to ruin the plot, but this is a good Father's Day flick!
I give it three bear paws. Very well acted. Nice story. No need to see it at the theater unless you want to see it sooner rather than wait for rental.
Edge of Tomorrow
This is Tom Cruise's new movie. It was described by critics as Groundhog Day meets District 9. That is a VERY accurate assessment. While not a Tom Cruise fan, the movie was not totally panned by the critics so I went to see it. The action scenes were amazing. It has some humor. It had a little love story. It had lots of action.
I give it three bear paws. Check it out on the big screen!
*******************************************
The only remedy for hearts that “want it all” is the contentment found in the presence of the living God. He is sufficient for our needs and longings, and He alone can bring us the peace and contentment we’ll never find in the pursuits of this life. - Our Daily Bread
Did you ever have a teacher that seemed to hand out criticism easily, but rarely complimented the students on a job well done. The expectation was that a job well done for all assignments. Expectations can be dangerous! ha!
While God has the highest expectations for us as his children, he also knows our limitations. We make bad choices at times. God lets us make those choices. We usually live with the consequences, however sometimes we learn from our mistakes and avoid serious consequences. Our God is just and merciful. He doesn't hold blessings out in front of us like a carrot to a mule! LOL He often blesses us when we feel like we don't deserve it! The least we can do is serve him and praise him to the best our abilities! Praise God!
Lord, we thank you for your love, mercy and generosity. We love you!
Movie Monday
After working sooooooo hard on Friday and Saturday, I went to the movies on the rainy Sunday afternoon! I saw Chef and Edge of Tomorrow.
Chef
I heard about this movie from a friend and had to see it. I also love to cook and am a little bit of a foodie, so I also loved that angle to the movie. The story is about a chef who is held back from the owner of a mildly successful restaurant. The chef wants to create a cool new menu for the visit of LA's top food critic, but the owner won't let him. A LOT of interesting things happen after that! There are many cool moments in the movie. I don't want to ruin the plot, but this is a good Father's Day flick!
I give it three bear paws. Very well acted. Nice story. No need to see it at the theater unless you want to see it sooner rather than wait for rental.
Edge of Tomorrow
This is Tom Cruise's new movie. It was described by critics as Groundhog Day meets District 9. That is a VERY accurate assessment. While not a Tom Cruise fan, the movie was not totally panned by the critics so I went to see it. The action scenes were amazing. It has some humor. It had a little love story. It had lots of action.
I give it three bear paws. Check it out on the big screen!
*******************************************
The only remedy for hearts that “want it all” is the contentment found in the presence of the living God. He is sufficient for our needs and longings, and He alone can bring us the peace and contentment we’ll never find in the pursuits of this life. - Our Daily Bread
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Quick fix
Our Daily Bread
Duct tape. There are many stories about guys using duct tape to "fix" a problem. Most of the time the fix is only temporary, so we put on more duct tape to "fix" the problem again instead of fixing it the right way! Yikes!
Our Christian lives can be like this. We pray for God to "fix" a situation in our lives with our short-sighted requests instead of asking God to help us truly get to the root of the problem. As I wrote about yesterday, God doesn't want us to have lesser things, which includes the fixes he puts in our lives. Many times the fixes take a while, like in the case of behavioral or attitude fixes, but they last a lifetime! Praise God! Let us pray for each other to ask God to do what is best for us and be patient with his answer and his "fix"!
Lord, you know us. You know the "fixes" we need. Please help us trust and obey!
Psalm Sunday
We have a pretty awesome psalm this week! I am sure you will recognize it and love it as much as I do!
Psalm 146
Praise for God’s Help
1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord, O my soul!
2 I will praise the Lord as long as I live;
I will sing praises to my God all my life long.
3 Do not put your trust in princes,
in mortals, in whom there is no help.
4 When their breath departs, they return to the earth;
on that very day their plans perish.
5 Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the Lord their God,
6 who made heaven and earth,
the sea, and all that is in them;
who keeps faith forever;
7 who executes justice for the oppressed;
who gives food to the hungry.
The Lord sets the prisoners free;
8 the Lord opens the eyes of the blind.
The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down;
the Lord loves the righteous.
9 The Lord watches over the strangers;
he upholds the orphan and the widow,
but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.
10 The Lord will reign forever,
your God, O Zion, for all generations.
Praise the Lord!
********************************
Living out of love for God and pleasing Him should be our heart’s desire. - Our Daily Bread
Duct tape. There are many stories about guys using duct tape to "fix" a problem. Most of the time the fix is only temporary, so we put on more duct tape to "fix" the problem again instead of fixing it the right way! Yikes!
Our Christian lives can be like this. We pray for God to "fix" a situation in our lives with our short-sighted requests instead of asking God to help us truly get to the root of the problem. As I wrote about yesterday, God doesn't want us to have lesser things, which includes the fixes he puts in our lives. Many times the fixes take a while, like in the case of behavioral or attitude fixes, but they last a lifetime! Praise God! Let us pray for each other to ask God to do what is best for us and be patient with his answer and his "fix"!
Lord, you know us. You know the "fixes" we need. Please help us trust and obey!
Psalm Sunday
We have a pretty awesome psalm this week! I am sure you will recognize it and love it as much as I do!
Psalm 146
Praise for God’s Help
1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord, O my soul!
2 I will praise the Lord as long as I live;
I will sing praises to my God all my life long.
3 Do not put your trust in princes,
in mortals, in whom there is no help.
4 When their breath departs, they return to the earth;
on that very day their plans perish.
5 Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the Lord their God,
6 who made heaven and earth,
the sea, and all that is in them;
who keeps faith forever;
7 who executes justice for the oppressed;
who gives food to the hungry.
The Lord sets the prisoners free;
8 the Lord opens the eyes of the blind.
The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down;
the Lord loves the righteous.
9 The Lord watches over the strangers;
he upholds the orphan and the widow,
but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.
10 The Lord will reign forever,
your God, O Zion, for all generations.
Praise the Lord!
********************************
Living out of love for God and pleasing Him should be our heart’s desire. - Our Daily Bread
Saturday, June 7, 2014
Lesser things
Our Daily Bread
There is a song that has an amazing line in it like: "Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things". Laura Story is talking about how we pray for things, but God loves too much to give us "lesser things"! Wow! I am inspired to listen more when I pray so I know not to "settle"!
The devotion talks about this topic of "lesser things" as well. I love the CS Lewis quote about our desires are too easily pleased that we don't wait for what God has for us! Yes, I see this in my own life over and over again. It may be happening right now! ha! Patience, discernment and trust are the key components in figuring out what God has for us. Too many times we act like someone looking for a good meal in a garbage dump. We wouldn't do that would we?
Patience, discernment and trust. Yeah, that's the ticket.
Lord, we know you have our best interests at heart. Please help us live that way and not settle for lesser things!
Simply Saturday
I remembered this song while searching through music on iTunes the other day. It is an oldie but goodie! Song of Deliverance sung by Debby Boone helped me get through my bout with cancer 28 years ago. Praise God!
Song of Deliverance (sung by Debby Boone)
Standing at my station camped upon the battleground
Though I can't see my enemy, I know that he is all around
So many voices speaking, telling me I'm wrong; can they be right?
I have the choice to weaken, or to stand up strong and fight
But the only defense that I can raise
Is lifting up an anthem of Your praise
Oh Lord, Your loving kindness is everlasting
That's why I sing
My Lord, your loving kindness endures forever
And You are able to deliver me
Deliver me
Lord in my confusion all my strength is giving in
My adversary's everywhere, it seems that there's no way to win
Then I hear Your voice all through me telling me this battle's Yours, not mine
I have no choice left to me but to yield to Your design
As You take it from my hands what can I do
but to lift them up in sacrifice to You
Oh Lord, Your loving kindness is everlasting
That's why I sing
My Lord, your loving kindness endures forever
And You are able to deliver me
Deliver me
And now the hope of Your salvation
Is burning in me like a flame
I come before You now rejoicing
And with this song of deliverance proclaim
Oh Lord, Your loving kindness is everlasting
That's why I sing
My Lord, your loving kindness endures forever
And You are able to deliver me
Deliver me
*************************************
Trusting God’s faithfulness dispels our fearfulness. - Our Daily Bread web site
There is a song that has an amazing line in it like: "Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things". Laura Story is talking about how we pray for things, but God loves too much to give us "lesser things"! Wow! I am inspired to listen more when I pray so I know not to "settle"!
The devotion talks about this topic of "lesser things" as well. I love the CS Lewis quote about our desires are too easily pleased that we don't wait for what God has for us! Yes, I see this in my own life over and over again. It may be happening right now! ha! Patience, discernment and trust are the key components in figuring out what God has for us. Too many times we act like someone looking for a good meal in a garbage dump. We wouldn't do that would we?
Patience, discernment and trust. Yeah, that's the ticket.
Lord, we know you have our best interests at heart. Please help us live that way and not settle for lesser things!
Simply Saturday
I remembered this song while searching through music on iTunes the other day. It is an oldie but goodie! Song of Deliverance sung by Debby Boone helped me get through my bout with cancer 28 years ago. Praise God!
Song of Deliverance (sung by Debby Boone)
Standing at my station camped upon the battleground
Though I can't see my enemy, I know that he is all around
So many voices speaking, telling me I'm wrong; can they be right?
I have the choice to weaken, or to stand up strong and fight
But the only defense that I can raise
Is lifting up an anthem of Your praise
Oh Lord, Your loving kindness is everlasting
That's why I sing
My Lord, your loving kindness endures forever
And You are able to deliver me
Deliver me
Lord in my confusion all my strength is giving in
My adversary's everywhere, it seems that there's no way to win
Then I hear Your voice all through me telling me this battle's Yours, not mine
I have no choice left to me but to yield to Your design
As You take it from my hands what can I do
but to lift them up in sacrifice to You
Oh Lord, Your loving kindness is everlasting
That's why I sing
My Lord, your loving kindness endures forever
And You are able to deliver me
Deliver me
And now the hope of Your salvation
Is burning in me like a flame
I come before You now rejoicing
And with this song of deliverance proclaim
Oh Lord, Your loving kindness is everlasting
That's why I sing
My Lord, your loving kindness endures forever
And You are able to deliver me
Deliver me
*************************************
Trusting God’s faithfulness dispels our fearfulness. - Our Daily Bread web site
Friday, June 6, 2014
Choose ye this day...
Our Daily Bread
Having traveled around singing a lot when I was younger, I heard a LOT of different preachers. One of my favorite sermons was about today's scripture passage: Joshua 24:15. In a long drawn Southern accent, the preacher said Choose yeeeee this daaayyyyy WWWHHHHOOOMMMM yeeee will serve! I am happy to say I made my choice many, many years ago!
So who do we really serve? Do we and our households really "serve the Lord"? Are there other idols or things of this world that we make our priorities instead of serving the Living God? I know this sounds like crazy talk that might have us end up as a monk that gardens vegetables and prays when he is not doing that! I am sorry, but I know that is not the life for me! Once again, God lead me to the closing tag line for today's entry: "You are a success in God’s kingdom if you are faithful where He has placed you." - Our Daily Bread Wherever you are. Whatever God has for you to do. Let us all be faithful to Him! Praise God!
Lord, you know what is best for us. Please help us do our best for you where you place us!
Foodie Friday
I found a couple of recipes that I want to try. Not sure when I will take time to cook again. Here are the recipes:
Pine Nut-crusted Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
1 cup panko bread crumbs
3/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
2 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
1 Tbsp. crushed red pepper flakes
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup dry white wine OR chicken broth
1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp. Kosher salt
1 Tbsp. garlic powder
2 Tbsp. ground black pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 1-1/4 lbs.)
1/4 cup Bertolli® Classico™ Olive Oil, divided
1 jar Bertolli® Arrabbiata Sauce
3 cups fresh spinach leaves, rinsed and patted dry (about 10 oz.)
1 cup shredded fontina cheese (about 2 oz.)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 2 oz.)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 ounces fettuccine, cooked and drained
TOTAL TIME
1 hr 5 min
SERVINGS
4 UNITS
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375°. Lightly brush sides and bottom of 11- x 8-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon Olive Oil, then evenly spread with 1/3 of the Sauce; set aside.
Pulse pine nuts in food processor or roughly chop with knife. Combine pine nuts, bread crumbs, rosemary and red pepper flakes in shallow dish. Combine eggs with wine in another shallow dish. Combine flour, black pepper, salt and garlic powder in another shallow dish. Evenly coat chicken in flour mixture, then egg mixture, then bread crumb mixture.
Heat remaining 3 tablespoons Olive Oil in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and brown chicken. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Arrange chicken in prepared baking dish, then top with remaining Sauce. Bake 30 minutes or until chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Evenly top chicken with spinach and cheeses. Bake an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve over hot fettuccine and garnish, if desired, with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Hearty Hash Brown Soup Recipe
Ingredients
2 pounds frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
4 cups water
1 large onion, chopped
3/4 cup sliced celery
4 chicken bouillon cubes
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 cans (10-3/4 ounces each) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
1 quart milk
2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
1-1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
8 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
*************************************
You are a success in God’s kingdom if you are faithful where He has placed you. - Our Daily Bread
Having traveled around singing a lot when I was younger, I heard a LOT of different preachers. One of my favorite sermons was about today's scripture passage: Joshua 24:15. In a long drawn Southern accent, the preacher said Choose yeeeee this daaayyyyy WWWHHHHOOOMMMM yeeee will serve! I am happy to say I made my choice many, many years ago!
So who do we really serve? Do we and our households really "serve the Lord"? Are there other idols or things of this world that we make our priorities instead of serving the Living God? I know this sounds like crazy talk that might have us end up as a monk that gardens vegetables and prays when he is not doing that! I am sorry, but I know that is not the life for me! Once again, God lead me to the closing tag line for today's entry: "You are a success in God’s kingdom if you are faithful where He has placed you." - Our Daily Bread Wherever you are. Whatever God has for you to do. Let us all be faithful to Him! Praise God!
Lord, you know what is best for us. Please help us do our best for you where you place us!
Foodie Friday
I found a couple of recipes that I want to try. Not sure when I will take time to cook again. Here are the recipes:
Pine Nut-crusted Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
1 cup panko bread crumbs
3/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
2 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
1 Tbsp. crushed red pepper flakes
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup dry white wine OR chicken broth
1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp. Kosher salt
1 Tbsp. garlic powder
2 Tbsp. ground black pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 1-1/4 lbs.)
1/4 cup Bertolli® Classico™ Olive Oil, divided
1 jar Bertolli® Arrabbiata Sauce
3 cups fresh spinach leaves, rinsed and patted dry (about 10 oz.)
1 cup shredded fontina cheese (about 2 oz.)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 2 oz.)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 ounces fettuccine, cooked and drained
TOTAL TIME
1 hr 5 min
SERVINGS
4 UNITS
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375°. Lightly brush sides and bottom of 11- x 8-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon Olive Oil, then evenly spread with 1/3 of the Sauce; set aside.
Pulse pine nuts in food processor or roughly chop with knife. Combine pine nuts, bread crumbs, rosemary and red pepper flakes in shallow dish. Combine eggs with wine in another shallow dish. Combine flour, black pepper, salt and garlic powder in another shallow dish. Evenly coat chicken in flour mixture, then egg mixture, then bread crumb mixture.
Heat remaining 3 tablespoons Olive Oil in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and brown chicken. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Arrange chicken in prepared baking dish, then top with remaining Sauce. Bake 30 minutes or until chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Evenly top chicken with spinach and cheeses. Bake an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve over hot fettuccine and garnish, if desired, with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Hearty Hash Brown Soup Recipe
Ingredients
2 pounds frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
4 cups water
1 large onion, chopped
3/4 cup sliced celery
4 chicken bouillon cubes
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 cans (10-3/4 ounces each) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
1 quart milk
2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
1-1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
8 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
Directions
In a Dutch oven or soup kettle, combine the first seven ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Mash vegetables with cooking liquid. Add soup and milk; stir until smooth. Add ham, parsley and garlic salt; simmer for 10 minutes or until heated through. Garnish with bacon. Yield: 12-16 servings (4 quarts).
*************************************
You are a success in God’s kingdom if you are faithful where He has placed you. - Our Daily Bread
Thursday, June 5, 2014
It always feels like...
Our Daily Bread
Men at Work sang an odd song and have a video that was even more odd called (It always feels like) Someone's Watching Me. The look on the lead singer's face when he sang it was a little creepy!
As Christians, we have a non-creepy "someone's watching me" we can be thankful for! We know that God is always watching over us. Like the devotional said, we sometimes have to "adjust our frame" to see that he is really there even when we don't feel him. Reading the Song of Moses is a great reminder of the greatness and closeness of our God! Praise God!
Lord, we thank you for being with us even when we can't see or feel you!
Technology Thursday
13 Google Search Tricks That Make Life A Whole Lot Easier
The Huffington Post | By Carina Kolodny
You think you know how to Google? You don't know how to Google.
Even the most seasoned Googler might not know every tip and trick available with just a few extra keystrokes in the search bar. Consider this your instructions manual for the world's most popular search engine.
Define A Word
The Scenario: You're playing Scrabble and some dumb-dumb says, "Hey, 'panacea' isn't a word!"
The Solution: Just type "define:" followed by the word you want and Google will take you straight to the definition. Use the time you save to make smarter friends.
Search For Words In Exact Order
The Scenario: You want to find out the origin of a quote, but Google keeps giving results that are nowhere close.
The Solution: Put your search phrase inside quotation marks.
Exclude Certain Words
The Scenario: You want bread recipes that don't list "yeast" as an ingredient.
The Solution: After you enter your desired search terms, add a minus sign (-) followed by the words you want excluded.
Search Within A Range Of Prices
The Scenario: You want to research digital cameras that fall within a certain price range.
The Solution: First type in your term. Then separate the lowest and highest prices you're willing to pay with two periods (..). This trick also works for dates, if you're, say, looking for a news article published during a certain time.
Search Within A Website
The Scenario: You read an interesting article about Nelson Mandela on The Huffington Post, but you don't have the link and you can't remember the article's name or its author.
The Solution: Type "site:" followed by the URL of the website you'd like to search. Then add your search terms.
Fill In The Blanks
The Scenario: You once heard that mixing Pop Rocks with _________ would result in _______, but you can't remember what either of those two blanks are.
The Solution: Enter your search terms using asterisks as stand-ins for the unknowns. Google will fill in the blanks with possibilities.
Search By File Type
The Scenario: You have to do a PowerPoint presentation on 1920s slang, either because you're still in college or you live in Brooklyn, and you want to see how others have done it.
The Solution: Search by file type to find other PowerPoints. Enter your search terms followed by "filetype:PPT."
Set A Timer
The Scenario: Your brain is fried and you want to take a break on YouTube. You also want to make sure you don't get sucked down the rabbit hole.
The Solution: Type "set timer for" into the search bar and a Google timer will appear as the first result. Enter the time you want in hours, minutes or seconds and start the timer. Google will start beeping at you when your time runs out.
Do Math
The Scenario: You're terrible at math. Like, really bad at it. Or you're pretty good at math but have a really complicated problem to solve.
The Solution: To the chagrin of your math teacher, you can type in an equation and Google will give you the answer on its calculator. That's right, Mr. Campisano: I didn't need Algebra II after all.
Convert Currency
The Scenario: You're planning a trip to Thailand but have zero idea how far your American dollars will get you.
The Solution: Type in the name of the currency you currently own, add "to" and then type in the name of the currency you need to get.
Find A GIF
The Scenario: You know the exact GIF you need to send to your friend. But how do you find it?
The Solution: Go to Google Images. Click "Search tools" and then "Type." Then check off "Animated." Prepare to impress.
Search By Title
The Scenario: You want to search for a photo of the sexiest man alive when he was in his prime. To be specific, you want to find Joe Biden's yearbook photo.
The Solution: Type "intitle:" then the term you want. This will ensure the specified term is in the title of all the webpages in your results.
Make Google Flip Out
The Scenario: You want to freak out a friend.
The Solution: Type "do a barrel roll" and hit enter.
You're welcome.
****************************************
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21 niv).
Men at Work sang an odd song and have a video that was even more odd called (It always feels like) Someone's Watching Me. The look on the lead singer's face when he sang it was a little creepy!
As Christians, we have a non-creepy "someone's watching me" we can be thankful for! We know that God is always watching over us. Like the devotional said, we sometimes have to "adjust our frame" to see that he is really there even when we don't feel him. Reading the Song of Moses is a great reminder of the greatness and closeness of our God! Praise God!
Lord, we thank you for being with us even when we can't see or feel you!
Technology Thursday
13 Google Search Tricks That Make Life A Whole Lot Easier
The Huffington Post | By Carina Kolodny
You think you know how to Google? You don't know how to Google.
Even the most seasoned Googler might not know every tip and trick available with just a few extra keystrokes in the search bar. Consider this your instructions manual for the world's most popular search engine.
Define A Word
The Scenario: You're playing Scrabble and some dumb-dumb says, "Hey, 'panacea' isn't a word!"
The Solution: Just type "define:" followed by the word you want and Google will take you straight to the definition. Use the time you save to make smarter friends.
Search For Words In Exact Order
The Scenario: You want to find out the origin of a quote, but Google keeps giving results that are nowhere close.
The Solution: Put your search phrase inside quotation marks.
Exclude Certain Words
The Scenario: You want bread recipes that don't list "yeast" as an ingredient.
The Solution: After you enter your desired search terms, add a minus sign (-) followed by the words you want excluded.
Search Within A Range Of Prices
The Scenario: You want to research digital cameras that fall within a certain price range.
The Solution: First type in your term. Then separate the lowest and highest prices you're willing to pay with two periods (..). This trick also works for dates, if you're, say, looking for a news article published during a certain time.
Search Within A Website
The Scenario: You read an interesting article about Nelson Mandela on The Huffington Post, but you don't have the link and you can't remember the article's name or its author.
The Solution: Type "site:" followed by the URL of the website you'd like to search. Then add your search terms.
Fill In The Blanks
The Scenario: You once heard that mixing Pop Rocks with _________ would result in _______, but you can't remember what either of those two blanks are.
The Solution: Enter your search terms using asterisks as stand-ins for the unknowns. Google will fill in the blanks with possibilities.
Search By File Type
The Scenario: You have to do a PowerPoint presentation on 1920s slang, either because you're still in college or you live in Brooklyn, and you want to see how others have done it.
The Solution: Search by file type to find other PowerPoints. Enter your search terms followed by "filetype:PPT."
Set A Timer
The Scenario: Your brain is fried and you want to take a break on YouTube. You also want to make sure you don't get sucked down the rabbit hole.
The Solution: Type "set timer for" into the search bar and a Google timer will appear as the first result. Enter the time you want in hours, minutes or seconds and start the timer. Google will start beeping at you when your time runs out.
Do Math
The Scenario: You're terrible at math. Like, really bad at it. Or you're pretty good at math but have a really complicated problem to solve.
The Solution: To the chagrin of your math teacher, you can type in an equation and Google will give you the answer on its calculator. That's right, Mr. Campisano: I didn't need Algebra II after all.
Convert Currency
The Scenario: You're planning a trip to Thailand but have zero idea how far your American dollars will get you.
The Solution: Type in the name of the currency you currently own, add "to" and then type in the name of the currency you need to get.
Find A GIF
The Scenario: You know the exact GIF you need to send to your friend. But how do you find it?
The Solution: Go to Google Images. Click "Search tools" and then "Type." Then check off "Animated." Prepare to impress.
Search By Title
The Scenario: You want to search for a photo of the sexiest man alive when he was in his prime. To be specific, you want to find Joe Biden's yearbook photo.
The Solution: Type "intitle:" then the term you want. This will ensure the specified term is in the title of all the webpages in your results.
Make Google Flip Out
The Scenario: You want to freak out a friend.
The Solution: Type "do a barrel roll" and hit enter.
You're welcome.
****************************************
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen” (Eph. 3:20-21 niv).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)