If you asked one hundred people what they would need to have peace of mind, you would probably get one hundred different answers. I am sure some would say that money in the bank, financial freedom, would grant them peace of mind. Others would say that knowing this event was going to happen or that that event wasn't going to happen would grant them peace of mind. Everyone has his/her own idea about what peace of mind means.
For me, peace of mind is simply not having to worry about something, not having to worry about anything. I am sure that I have shared before that I don't worry about things. Am I concerned about things? Yes. Do I plan for things? Yes. Do I realize that I have to do my part? Yes. But, I have a peace of mind about things.
Today's word is a quote from Linn Carlson that says, "There is no force on earth stronger or more effective than the power of praying to our all-knowing, almighty GOD."
There's an old saying that says, "If you're having trouble falling to sleep, don't count sheep, count your blessings." If I started trying to count all my blessings, I would spend the rest of my life trying to name them all. And, while I was counting them up, I would get countless others along the way. That's how good GOD is to us.
Knowing how good GOD is to us, knowing how much GOD has done for us, knowing how much GOD has in store for us, gives me peace of mind. There's nothing more powerful, nothing more comforting, nothing brings peace like knowing that I know GOD and He knows what I need. That is peace of mind.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Friday, October 30, 2015
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
The most satisfying meal
What's your favorite meal? I can tell you that I have several favorite things that if you put them all together, and I could eat it all, it would be my favorite. And, I can also tell you that most of it is all the BAD stuff. I really like barbecue. If you smoke it or grill it, I'm in. I like pork: bacon, pork chops, Boston butt, ribs, etc. I like greasy hamburgers, french fries, chicken fingers, pizza, potato chips, all sorts of greasy, salty, fatty things.
I also like desserts but not as much as the greasy, salty things. But, I really like homemade banana pudding; the type with Nilla Wafers, the homemade "soup", and topped with meringue. I also like ice cream, cheese cake, German chocolate cake, brownies, and REESE CUPS! Suffice it to say, it would be hard to pick my favorite physical meal.
Today's word is John 6:35, NIV, which reads, "Then JESUS declared, 'I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty."
My favorite spiritual meal comes each day. It's important to get spiritual nourishment daily, just as it is to get the physical. We need to seek GOD, talk to GOD, commune with GOD, sup with GOD every day. Just as the physical nourishment needs to be refreshed and renewed in order to recharge, so, too, does the spiritual nourishment require use to take spiritual things in daily.
Take in some spiritual nourishment; it's good for the soul. If you'll seek GOD each day, you'll find that you hunger for Him but you are never hungry. And, you'll find that you thirst for Him but you are never truly thirsty. We need His nourishment too.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
I also like desserts but not as much as the greasy, salty things. But, I really like homemade banana pudding; the type with Nilla Wafers, the homemade "soup", and topped with meringue. I also like ice cream, cheese cake, German chocolate cake, brownies, and REESE CUPS! Suffice it to say, it would be hard to pick my favorite physical meal.
Today's word is John 6:35, NIV, which reads, "Then JESUS declared, 'I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty."
My favorite spiritual meal comes each day. It's important to get spiritual nourishment daily, just as it is to get the physical. We need to seek GOD, talk to GOD, commune with GOD, sup with GOD every day. Just as the physical nourishment needs to be refreshed and renewed in order to recharge, so, too, does the spiritual nourishment require use to take spiritual things in daily.
Take in some spiritual nourishment; it's good for the soul. If you'll seek GOD each day, you'll find that you hunger for Him but you are never hungry. And, you'll find that you thirst for Him but you are never truly thirsty. We need His nourishment too.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Ever have one of those days that you thought, "It cannot get any worse?" Did you make it through? If you're reading this, you have either mad it through or you are making it through one right now. It is a fact that we are going to have some bad days, probably some REALLY BAD DAYS.
How do you make it through your bad day? Where do you find the strength to keep pushing through, to keep moving forward, to keep on keeping on? I rely on GOD'S Grace and His sufficiency. I know that He has me in His hand and that He will guide me through. However, when things are going really bad, and it seems that I can't catch my breath from the previous bad thing before the next one punches me in the gut, it can be very tiring and taxing. Yet, we make it through with GOD'S help.
Today's word is a reminder that this, too, shall pass. It is a quote I came across that will help us through some of those days that just won't seem to end. It says, "IF today is the WORST day of your life, then, you KNOW tomorrow WILL be BETTER."
Yeah, today may suck. And, while we are in that vacuum of suckeration, it seems as if it will always be this way, that it will never be any better. But, we need to keep some perspective that it is one day. We need to rely on GOD to help us through this day, and tomorrow will be better. GOD'S grace is sufficient; He will see us through.
We are all going to experience bad days from time to time. But, I am going to try to remember that I am just passing through this time and tomorrow will be better.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
How do you make it through your bad day? Where do you find the strength to keep pushing through, to keep moving forward, to keep on keeping on? I rely on GOD'S Grace and His sufficiency. I know that He has me in His hand and that He will guide me through. However, when things are going really bad, and it seems that I can't catch my breath from the previous bad thing before the next one punches me in the gut, it can be very tiring and taxing. Yet, we make it through with GOD'S help.
Today's word is a reminder that this, too, shall pass. It is a quote I came across that will help us through some of those days that just won't seem to end. It says, "IF today is the WORST day of your life, then, you KNOW tomorrow WILL be BETTER."
Yeah, today may suck. And, while we are in that vacuum of suckeration, it seems as if it will always be this way, that it will never be any better. But, we need to keep some perspective that it is one day. We need to rely on GOD to help us through this day, and tomorrow will be better. GOD'S grace is sufficient; He will see us through.
We are all going to experience bad days from time to time. But, I am going to try to remember that I am just passing through this time and tomorrow will be better.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Monday, October 26, 2015
Leave a little to the imagination
Some people can't help but tell you everything they know, or at least everything they think they know. And, I know that I am a talker - a TALKER. I have shared before that I don't really need a subject, I just need an audience.
But, you know the type. You want to talk about football? They'll talk football, knowing nothing about it. You want to talk brain surgery? They'll talk brain surgery, not even knowing how to spell cerebral. You want to talk Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade? They will talk helium balloons with the best of them. Reminds me of the old adage, "Best to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt."
Today's word is going to cover this aspect and another that we will get into in a moment. Today's word is a quote from William Shakespeare, which says, "Have more than you show, speak less than you know."
I think that is pretty good advice. So many people today will purchase something new and post it on some social media, just tempting people to take it or damage it. Some will go so far as to tell you that they are on vacation and no one is home, just giving you an open invitation to go to their house and remove what they are posting. It's best to keep that stuff to yourself.
Another point is not showing everything. It seems that some people are bent on letting everyone else see "everything" they have. Look, leave a little to the imagination. There's no need to show everything you've got. And, if you ever want to discuss the difficulties of climbing Mt. Everest, look me up - I'm an expert.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
But, you know the type. You want to talk about football? They'll talk football, knowing nothing about it. You want to talk brain surgery? They'll talk brain surgery, not even knowing how to spell cerebral. You want to talk Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade? They will talk helium balloons with the best of them. Reminds me of the old adage, "Best to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt."
Today's word is going to cover this aspect and another that we will get into in a moment. Today's word is a quote from William Shakespeare, which says, "Have more than you show, speak less than you know."
I think that is pretty good advice. So many people today will purchase something new and post it on some social media, just tempting people to take it or damage it. Some will go so far as to tell you that they are on vacation and no one is home, just giving you an open invitation to go to their house and remove what they are posting. It's best to keep that stuff to yourself.
Another point is not showing everything. It seems that some people are bent on letting everyone else see "everything" they have. Look, leave a little to the imagination. There's no need to show everything you've got. And, if you ever want to discuss the difficulties of climbing Mt. Everest, look me up - I'm an expert.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Friday, October 23, 2015
The Trix Rabbit
General Mills announced that they are replacing the iconic Trix Rabbit. No doubt, there's a lot of us that remember, "Silly Rabbit. Trix are for kids." I guess in this day and age where everything is about doing away with artificial anything, it was only a matter of time before the Trix Rabbit was holed.
The nostalgia of years past often brings to mind feelings of fun and laughter and carefree childhood days. The opposite often holds true to those not so good things in our lives. I know people who can't let go of past wrongs or past grudges, which only hurts themselves. And, I know people who hold on to a sinking ship too long because they are afraid of not having a ship to hold on to.
Today's word is a quote I came across, which says, "Stop worrying about what you have to lose, and start focusing on what you have to gain."
There will come times in our lives that we have to make tough decisions. Those decisions may be as inert as whether to get rid of a favorite old shirt or vehicle or as serious as having to let go of a relationship. The truth of the matter is that if it doesn't make you better, it's probably not worth hanging on to.
Another point I want to get across is that so many people are reluctant to give in to JESUS CHRIST because of "all they might lose". All you're ever going to miss by being a Christian is hell. Stop focusing on what you might lose and think about all there is to gain - eternal life in Heaven!
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
The nostalgia of years past often brings to mind feelings of fun and laughter and carefree childhood days. The opposite often holds true to those not so good things in our lives. I know people who can't let go of past wrongs or past grudges, which only hurts themselves. And, I know people who hold on to a sinking ship too long because they are afraid of not having a ship to hold on to.
Today's word is a quote I came across, which says, "Stop worrying about what you have to lose, and start focusing on what you have to gain."
There will come times in our lives that we have to make tough decisions. Those decisions may be as inert as whether to get rid of a favorite old shirt or vehicle or as serious as having to let go of a relationship. The truth of the matter is that if it doesn't make you better, it's probably not worth hanging on to.
Another point I want to get across is that so many people are reluctant to give in to JESUS CHRIST because of "all they might lose". All you're ever going to miss by being a Christian is hell. Stop focusing on what you might lose and think about all there is to gain - eternal life in Heaven!
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Worth the effort
We all know folks that just don't ever seem to give 100%. We would like to think that they are keeping something in reserve just in case something bigger comes along that would require a little more energy. But, we all know that that is probably not the case.
There are just some folks in this world that just don't seem to ever give their best effort. At times, I have been one of those people. You know what the difference is? We only give our best when it is a cause, a purpose, a job, a something that we truly care about. It is when we truly care about something that we will give our best effort to ensure the safety and prosperity of that something.
Today's word reminds us to give it our all because it is worth it. 1 Corinthians 15:58b, NIV, reads, "Always give yourselves fully to the work of the LORD, because you know that your labor in the LORD is not in vain."
Sometimes, when we find ourselves not putting forth our best effort, it's because we don't see the benefit of it. Or, we don't know if we will see any benefit from it. But, we can rest assured that if we are doing GOD'S work, it will not be in vain. And, if we apply ourselves fully in that effort, the reward will also be full.
I guess today's thought is that I want to apply myself more fully in whatever GOD has for me to do. And, if I do that, I will find that it is worth the effort.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
There are just some folks in this world that just don't seem to ever give their best effort. At times, I have been one of those people. You know what the difference is? We only give our best when it is a cause, a purpose, a job, a something that we truly care about. It is when we truly care about something that we will give our best effort to ensure the safety and prosperity of that something.
Today's word reminds us to give it our all because it is worth it. 1 Corinthians 15:58b, NIV, reads, "Always give yourselves fully to the work of the LORD, because you know that your labor in the LORD is not in vain."
Sometimes, when we find ourselves not putting forth our best effort, it's because we don't see the benefit of it. Or, we don't know if we will see any benefit from it. But, we can rest assured that if we are doing GOD'S work, it will not be in vain. And, if we apply ourselves fully in that effort, the reward will also be full.
I guess today's thought is that I want to apply myself more fully in whatever GOD has for me to do. And, if I do that, I will find that it is worth the effort.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Making good decisions
Everyone in life has their problems from time to time. I know I certainly do. Sometimes, I get myself in trouble because I jump into something without having a plan. Now, if you know me, you know that this isn't often the case because I am a planner to a fault. If plan A doesn't work, it's okay. I have plan B, and plan C, and plan D. You get the idea.
Other times, I get myself in a mess because I have thought and thought but I haven't done anything about it. The ol' proverbial saying is that you have to strike when the iron is hot; or, you have to make hay when the sun shines. Sometimes, we allow ourselves to overthink things, and by the time we have made a decision, someone else has beaten us to it.
Today's word is a thought on these two things that simply says, "Most of the problems in life are because of two reasons, we act without thinking or we keep thinking without acting."
It's easy to sit on the sidelines and analyze others' decisions; I do it all the time. It's also easy to sit there and never make a decision. I have shared before that I am not afraid to make a decision. I have made a lot of bad ones, especially in haste, but I am not afraid to make one. However, prior to making a decision, we should take the time to think it through.
On the other hand, we need to make sure that we don't spend our time spinning our wheels and miss out on really important things because we are afraid to pull the trigger, afraid to make a decision. Sometimes, the best decision we can make is to make a decision.
There are times to act, and there are times to wait. We need to try to make sure we use the appropriate action at the appropriate time. If we will do that, we may find that we make pretty good decisions.
Other times, I get myself in a mess because I have thought and thought but I haven't done anything about it. The ol' proverbial saying is that you have to strike when the iron is hot; or, you have to make hay when the sun shines. Sometimes, we allow ourselves to overthink things, and by the time we have made a decision, someone else has beaten us to it.
Today's word is a thought on these two things that simply says, "Most of the problems in life are because of two reasons, we act without thinking or we keep thinking without acting."
It's easy to sit on the sidelines and analyze others' decisions; I do it all the time. It's also easy to sit there and never make a decision. I have shared before that I am not afraid to make a decision. I have made a lot of bad ones, especially in haste, but I am not afraid to make one. However, prior to making a decision, we should take the time to think it through.
On the other hand, we need to make sure that we don't spend our time spinning our wheels and miss out on really important things because we are afraid to pull the trigger, afraid to make a decision. Sometimes, the best decision we can make is to make a decision.
There are times to act, and there are times to wait. We need to try to make sure we use the appropriate action at the appropriate time. If we will do that, we may find that we make pretty good decisions.
Monday, October 19, 2015
All Access
Ever had ALL ACCESS passes to some event? I've never had all access passes to a big star's concert but, we have had all access passes at a golf tournament once, which was rather nice. We could go into any hospitality tent, any facility, virtually any area that we wanted. As soon as anyone saw our passes, they would welcome us with open arms, and whatever was available there was available to us.
I imagine an ALL ACCESS pass at a concert allows you to go backstage and see some of the behind the scene things that take place before, during, and after a concert. Then, when the concert is over, you're allowed the opportunity to get a moment with the performer, which, I am sure, is pretty cool. But, there is one ALL ACCESS pass that is incomprehensible and uncomparable.
Today's word is Romans 5:2, ESV, which reads, "Through Him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of GOD."
Through our faith in JESUS CHRIST we have obtained access to all that Heaven affords. We have been granted the ultimate ALL ACCESS pass. One day, we will see all that Heaven holds and contains. I am sure that it is more than I could ever think, dream, imagine, comprehend, or take in. It is for that reason that we have to be transformed, we have to receive the glorified body, because this body couldn't handle it.
It would probably be nice to go to a concert of one of my favorite performers and have an ALL ACCESS pass. But, it is even greater to know that through faith in JESUS CHRIST, I have access to the FATHER and all that He possesses. That is, indeed, ALL ACCESS.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
I imagine an ALL ACCESS pass at a concert allows you to go backstage and see some of the behind the scene things that take place before, during, and after a concert. Then, when the concert is over, you're allowed the opportunity to get a moment with the performer, which, I am sure, is pretty cool. But, there is one ALL ACCESS pass that is incomprehensible and uncomparable.
Today's word is Romans 5:2, ESV, which reads, "Through Him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of GOD."
Through our faith in JESUS CHRIST we have obtained access to all that Heaven affords. We have been granted the ultimate ALL ACCESS pass. One day, we will see all that Heaven holds and contains. I am sure that it is more than I could ever think, dream, imagine, comprehend, or take in. It is for that reason that we have to be transformed, we have to receive the glorified body, because this body couldn't handle it.
It would probably be nice to go to a concert of one of my favorite performers and have an ALL ACCESS pass. But, it is even greater to know that through faith in JESUS CHRIST, I have access to the FATHER and all that He possesses. That is, indeed, ALL ACCESS.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Friday, October 16, 2015
Good thing versus GOD thing
I heard a sermon recently that has caused me to think about where I am in GOD'S service. The gist of the sermon was that we get wrapped up in every new program, and every new outreach tool, and every new ministerial thing that comes along but, maybe, instead of looking for the next GOOD thing, we need to listen and do the GOD thing.
There's nothing wrong with any program or outreach emphasis or ministry but if we are constantly busying ourselves with those things and not actively listening for GOD to lead us to His thing, we are truly missing the point. GOD can do exceedingly, abundantly above anything we could ever do within our own power. Why not listen for His direction?
Today's word is Philemon 1:6, NIV, which reads, "I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in CHRIST."
This, though it may not seem like it, is what I am trying to convey. If we will each just actively share what GOD has done for us, and ALL that that entails, we may be surprised at the impact that will have. And, the more we actively share what GOD has done for us, the more we will see what GOD has done for us, and the more we will have to share!
Look, hook up with a Bible believing, Bible teaching, Bible preaching church and worship together. Get involved and be an active part of the church. However, if GOD is leading you to share your faith, don't get hung up on the next GOOD thing, get plugged in to GOD'S thing.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
There's nothing wrong with any program or outreach emphasis or ministry but if we are constantly busying ourselves with those things and not actively listening for GOD to lead us to His thing, we are truly missing the point. GOD can do exceedingly, abundantly above anything we could ever do within our own power. Why not listen for His direction?
Today's word is Philemon 1:6, NIV, which reads, "I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in CHRIST."
This, though it may not seem like it, is what I am trying to convey. If we will each just actively share what GOD has done for us, and ALL that that entails, we may be surprised at the impact that will have. And, the more we actively share what GOD has done for us, the more we will see what GOD has done for us, and the more we will have to share!
Look, hook up with a Bible believing, Bible teaching, Bible preaching church and worship together. Get involved and be an active part of the church. However, if GOD is leading you to share your faith, don't get hung up on the next GOOD thing, get plugged in to GOD'S thing.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Surround yourself with these folks
Have you ever noticed that you tend to pick up habits of those that you hang around? If you hang around people who sit around all day and play video games, it won't be long before you decide that it's a lot of fun sitting around playing video games.
On the other hand, if you surround yourself with people who like to go hiking and exploring the great outdoors, it probably won't be long before you decide that you, too, like hiking and exploring the great outdoors. Now, there's nothing wrong with either of these scenarios but I think we can all agree that one is more productive than the other. However, that is not the point I am trying to make.
The point I am trying to make comes from a simple snippet of something I came across. So, today's word is going to be something that I have composed from a simple thought: "Surround yourself with people who push you, challenge you, make you laugh, and make you better."
Whoever we decide to "hang" with will have an influence on us, good or bad. If we surround ourselves with people that are slothful, we will find ourselves taking on slothful tendencies. If we surround ourselves with people that are always negative, we will find ourselves producing a lot of negativity. It's not that we aren't our own people and that we aren't responsible for our own selves. It's just that you can't wallow in the mud and not get muddy.
Everyone needs a friend, and we should certainly show ourselves friendly to everyone. However, we need to keep our guard up and surround ourselves, spend the bulk of our time with folks who make us want to be the best that we can be. And, we do that by surrounding ourselves with people who push us, challenge us, make us laugh, and make us better.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
On the other hand, if you surround yourself with people who like to go hiking and exploring the great outdoors, it probably won't be long before you decide that you, too, like hiking and exploring the great outdoors. Now, there's nothing wrong with either of these scenarios but I think we can all agree that one is more productive than the other. However, that is not the point I am trying to make.
The point I am trying to make comes from a simple snippet of something I came across. So, today's word is going to be something that I have composed from a simple thought: "Surround yourself with people who push you, challenge you, make you laugh, and make you better."
Whoever we decide to "hang" with will have an influence on us, good or bad. If we surround ourselves with people that are slothful, we will find ourselves taking on slothful tendencies. If we surround ourselves with people that are always negative, we will find ourselves producing a lot of negativity. It's not that we aren't our own people and that we aren't responsible for our own selves. It's just that you can't wallow in the mud and not get muddy.
Everyone needs a friend, and we should certainly show ourselves friendly to everyone. However, we need to keep our guard up and surround ourselves, spend the bulk of our time with folks who make us want to be the best that we can be. And, we do that by surrounding ourselves with people who push us, challenge us, make us laugh, and make us better.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
Don't be afraid or discouraged
This world is certainly experiencing some tumultuous times. It seems that we can hardly go a few hours, much less a few days, without something catastrophic and unimaginable happening. Some say that it has always been this way, we just didn't have the coverage that we have today. I am of the opinion that it is worse because the Bible tells us that in the latter days, evil men and seducer will wax worse and worse. They are certainly doing that.
With all of this going on, it is easy to get concerned and even worried about the state of our world. These events may even cause some to fret and become discouraged. And, if all you have to hope for rests in this world, you probably are in a heap of trouble. However, if you are a child of GOD, there's nothing to be discouraged about because this is as bad as it gets.
Today's word is a familiar passage from Joshua 1:9, NLT, which reads, "I command you - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your GOD is with you wherever you go."
If you are a child of GOD, the events of this word is nothing to concern yourself over. GOD is with us wherever we go, whatever goes on. We can rest peacefully in His arms, knowing that He isn't surprised by any of these travesties.
When we recognize that GOD has us, and that He holds us, and that He helps us, we can certainly be strong and courageous. As a matter of fact, GOD commands it! When we realize His protection and His strength, we can loose our fears and be encouraged. Then, we should encourage others because GOD is with us wherever we go!
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
With all of this going on, it is easy to get concerned and even worried about the state of our world. These events may even cause some to fret and become discouraged. And, if all you have to hope for rests in this world, you probably are in a heap of trouble. However, if you are a child of GOD, there's nothing to be discouraged about because this is as bad as it gets.
Today's word is a familiar passage from Joshua 1:9, NLT, which reads, "I command you - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your GOD is with you wherever you go."
If you are a child of GOD, the events of this word is nothing to concern yourself over. GOD is with us wherever we go, whatever goes on. We can rest peacefully in His arms, knowing that He isn't surprised by any of these travesties.
When we recognize that GOD has us, and that He holds us, and that He helps us, we can certainly be strong and courageous. As a matter of fact, GOD commands it! When we realize His protection and His strength, we can loose our fears and be encouraged. Then, we should encourage others because GOD is with us wherever we go!
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Monday, October 12, 2015
He knows who are His
Could you recognize your child's voice even if your eyes were closed and there was a cacophony of noise? I would dare say that everyone is saying, "Absolutely." Why? Because we know our children.
If you lined up 20,000 people, I could still pick out our children. If you had hundreds of people call my name, I would still recognize when it was my child calling my name. Because, they are mine, and I know my children.
Have you ever wondered if GOD really knows you? If He really knows the intimate details of your life? Now, it goes without saying that He knows everything. You may think you have hidden it deep in the recesses of your mind but you didn't hide it from GOD, if He is your Father. He knows you if you are His child.
Today's word reminds us of that very fact. It is 2 Timothy 2:19, NLT, which reads, "But GOD'S truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: "The LORD knows those who are His," and "All who belong to the LORD must turn away from evil."
We can rest assured that GOD knows us. He knows His children: every hair on our heads; every thought in our mind; every desire of our heart; He KNOWS us. There's no need to feel as if GOD isn't listening - He is. There's no need to feel as if you are all alone - He's there. There's no need to feel as if no one cares - He does. There's no need to feel as if it can't be done - He can.
Isn't it great knowing that GOD knows His children? Nothing better than to know that GOD knows me and loves me and desires a relationship with me. And, because He loves me, I should strive to do His will and turn from evil. If we'll do that, we'll find our relationship to GOD deeper, stronger, and closer than it has ever been.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
If you lined up 20,000 people, I could still pick out our children. If you had hundreds of people call my name, I would still recognize when it was my child calling my name. Because, they are mine, and I know my children.
Have you ever wondered if GOD really knows you? If He really knows the intimate details of your life? Now, it goes without saying that He knows everything. You may think you have hidden it deep in the recesses of your mind but you didn't hide it from GOD, if He is your Father. He knows you if you are His child.
Today's word reminds us of that very fact. It is 2 Timothy 2:19, NLT, which reads, "But GOD'S truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: "The LORD knows those who are His," and "All who belong to the LORD must turn away from evil."
We can rest assured that GOD knows us. He knows His children: every hair on our heads; every thought in our mind; every desire of our heart; He KNOWS us. There's no need to feel as if GOD isn't listening - He is. There's no need to feel as if you are all alone - He's there. There's no need to feel as if no one cares - He does. There's no need to feel as if it can't be done - He can.
Isn't it great knowing that GOD knows His children? Nothing better than to know that GOD knows me and loves me and desires a relationship with me. And, because He loves me, I should strive to do His will and turn from evil. If we'll do that, we'll find our relationship to GOD deeper, stronger, and closer than it has ever been.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
He ain't my Daddy
If you've ever been in the military, you know that boot camp is a very different experience. It's not necessarily the physical part, which is tough but doable day-by-day; it's the mental aspect of unlearning what you know and transforming into the soldier or sailor you're expected to be. It can be a very anxious, uneasy time.
It all begins the moment you arrive at the training center. The anxiety of what is to come, what is going to happen, how will I handle this. At Great Lakes, one of my Company Commanders let us all know that for the next 9-1/2 weeks, he would be our mother, our father, our family. He didn't really mean it, nor did he actually give me the warm and fuzzies.
Today's word is a familiar passage from Philippians 4:6, NIV, which reads, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to GOD."
With GOD, we can have a peace that relieves all anxiety even in the midst of our most anxious times. GOD has us covered; He has our back. Come what may, He's in control and He will take care of it, if we will let Him. He'll ever alleviate and eliminate the anxiety if we will only give it to Him. We can worry and fret or give it to Him and forget. I know, easier said than done but it is still true.
Well, to finish the story, he wasn't my Dad or my Mom, but, my Company Commanders did direct and guide me through those 9-1/2 weeks. And, some of what they taught me, some of what they instilled in me, aided me during those anxious moments when I found myself in a very uncomfortable situation. If you'll make your requests to GOD through prayer and petition and thank Him for His being in control, you'll find you're less anxious. And, unlike my Company Commander, GOD truly is our FATHER.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
It all begins the moment you arrive at the training center. The anxiety of what is to come, what is going to happen, how will I handle this. At Great Lakes, one of my Company Commanders let us all know that for the next 9-1/2 weeks, he would be our mother, our father, our family. He didn't really mean it, nor did he actually give me the warm and fuzzies.
Today's word is a familiar passage from Philippians 4:6, NIV, which reads, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to GOD."
With GOD, we can have a peace that relieves all anxiety even in the midst of our most anxious times. GOD has us covered; He has our back. Come what may, He's in control and He will take care of it, if we will let Him. He'll ever alleviate and eliminate the anxiety if we will only give it to Him. We can worry and fret or give it to Him and forget. I know, easier said than done but it is still true.
Well, to finish the story, he wasn't my Dad or my Mom, but, my Company Commanders did direct and guide me through those 9-1/2 weeks. And, some of what they taught me, some of what they instilled in me, aided me during those anxious moments when I found myself in a very uncomfortable situation. If you'll make your requests to GOD through prayer and petition and thank Him for His being in control, you'll find you're less anxious. And, unlike my Company Commander, GOD truly is our FATHER.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Otto Korech
Someone sent an email to me and several others recently about thank you cards that was supposed to say, "Hand written," however, it read, "Hans written". Now, this, of course, received the reply, "Who's Hans?" I thought I would help the fellow out and emailed everyone that Hans was a Dutch font that was very regal. The person that had made the original typo thanked me for coming to his rescue but he included another typo, "Hade" instead of have, and I couldn't stop there.
I, first, replied all that "It was no big deal. And after further research, I had discovered that not only was Hans a regal, Dutch font but it was exclusively reserved for thank you cards." I wasn't going to comment on the additional "Hade" typo but someone else jumped all over it. His question was, "Who is Hade? Is he kin to Hans? Twins maybe?" It's important that you check your emails for typos, especially when you are emailing this group of individuals.
Thinking about watching what we say, today's word is Matthew 5:37, ESV, which reads, "Let what you say be simply, "Yes," or "No"; anything more than this comes from evil."
It is when we try to explain ourselves that we often find ourselves digging a deeper hole. It is best if we just answer the question asked, without trying to expound. Sort of like typos - if you let one get out, don't follow it up with another.
So, let's finish the story. After the typoist was asked if Hans and Hade were twins, I replied that indeed they were. They are the product of the union between Bad Ayes and Otto Korech. It's important to make sure we say what needs to be said, and stop there.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
I, first, replied all that "It was no big deal. And after further research, I had discovered that not only was Hans a regal, Dutch font but it was exclusively reserved for thank you cards." I wasn't going to comment on the additional "Hade" typo but someone else jumped all over it. His question was, "Who is Hade? Is he kin to Hans? Twins maybe?" It's important that you check your emails for typos, especially when you are emailing this group of individuals.
Thinking about watching what we say, today's word is Matthew 5:37, ESV, which reads, "Let what you say be simply, "Yes," or "No"; anything more than this comes from evil."
It is when we try to explain ourselves that we often find ourselves digging a deeper hole. It is best if we just answer the question asked, without trying to expound. Sort of like typos - if you let one get out, don't follow it up with another.
So, let's finish the story. After the typoist was asked if Hans and Hade were twins, I replied that indeed they were. They are the product of the union between Bad Ayes and Otto Korech. It's important to make sure we say what needs to be said, and stop there.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Monday, October 5, 2015
Why am I here?
You ever have one of those moments where, like me, you wonder what you are doing here? Why GOD has you here? Why GOD has you where you are at the exact moment you are? Those are all good questions; all of which I have asked and sought answers to.
There are times in our lives that it just doesn't seem to make sense to us that GOD has us where He has us. It seems to us that He could make better use of us in some other place, in some other capacity, with some other people. But, GOD makes no mistakes. If we are His, and if we allow Him to direct our paths, and we follow His leading, He will always have us where He wants us.
So, why are we here? Why are we in this exact location, at this exact time? Rick Warren sums it up with today's word: "GOD put us here to make the world a better place."
We are where we are because GOD wants us there, spreading His light in this dark world. Now, that isn't always easy; some folks do not like light, they do not like cheeriness, they do not like hearing about GOD and His goodness. Yet, GOD has us there to be a positive influence even when it seems that no one wants to hear it, or see it, or experience it.
If you find yourself wondering why GOD has you where He has you. Or, if you find yourself asking GOD why He has surrounded you with the ones that surround you, just remember that GOD has placed you there to make it a better place. I pray that I always do.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
There are times in our lives that it just doesn't seem to make sense to us that GOD has us where He has us. It seems to us that He could make better use of us in some other place, in some other capacity, with some other people. But, GOD makes no mistakes. If we are His, and if we allow Him to direct our paths, and we follow His leading, He will always have us where He wants us.
So, why are we here? Why are we in this exact location, at this exact time? Rick Warren sums it up with today's word: "GOD put us here to make the world a better place."
We are where we are because GOD wants us there, spreading His light in this dark world. Now, that isn't always easy; some folks do not like light, they do not like cheeriness, they do not like hearing about GOD and His goodness. Yet, GOD has us there to be a positive influence even when it seems that no one wants to hear it, or see it, or experience it.
If you find yourself wondering why GOD has you where He has you. Or, if you find yourself asking GOD why He has surrounded you with the ones that surround you, just remember that GOD has placed you there to make it a better place. I pray that I always do.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
Friday, October 2, 2015
It's not my fight
There are things in this life that are DEFINITELY worth fighting for. I won't try to list them all here because it would take forever but suffice it to say that there are some things that are worth every effort. There are also others that aren't worth any effort, yet, some folks will fight anyone or anything for anything.
We go through life trying to figure out which things are worth fighting for and which ones are not, or most of us do. As I mentioned, there are those that will fight anyone for anything. They are usually the ones that find themselves on the wrong side of the law or at the wrong end of a gun. Some things just aren't my fight.
That thought has led me to today's word, which is an unattributed quote that says, "A warrior is always aware of what is worth fighting for. He does not go into combat over things that do not concern him, and he never wastes his time over provocations."
So many people have been hurt or worse because they let someone's words provoke them into a fight that wasn't worth fighting. It's not worth it; let it go. What someone says about me has no bearing on what is really true about me. I have an old saying, "Do you know what an idiot is doing when you're arguing with him? The same thing, arguing with an idiot." Why argue with idiots?
I know today's post is a little different than normal but I just can't wrap my brain around why some people will involve themselves in fights that aren't theirs or that don't matter. Let's use some discernment. Fight for those things that are worth fighting for, and let the rest figure itself out.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
We go through life trying to figure out which things are worth fighting for and which ones are not, or most of us do. As I mentioned, there are those that will fight anyone for anything. They are usually the ones that find themselves on the wrong side of the law or at the wrong end of a gun. Some things just aren't my fight.
That thought has led me to today's word, which is an unattributed quote that says, "A warrior is always aware of what is worth fighting for. He does not go into combat over things that do not concern him, and he never wastes his time over provocations."
So many people have been hurt or worse because they let someone's words provoke them into a fight that wasn't worth fighting. It's not worth it; let it go. What someone says about me has no bearing on what is really true about me. I have an old saying, "Do you know what an idiot is doing when you're arguing with him? The same thing, arguing with an idiot." Why argue with idiots?
I know today's post is a little different than normal but I just can't wrap my brain around why some people will involve themselves in fights that aren't theirs or that don't matter. Let's use some discernment. Fight for those things that are worth fighting for, and let the rest figure itself out.
Be Blessed,
Mickey T
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