Baby Walker update-18 weeks

The doc says that little boy Walker is looking very good--weighs 10 oz. and is 8 in. long!

Both of my doctors believe I should follow the same check-ups as I had with Ryan, and they agree that I should be induced around 37 weeks. So, Lord willing, this little boy will come into the world during the first week of May. My due date is not until May 18th, but with my history, early induction brings us all some peace of mind.

I'll be having sonograms every four weeks until I'm 32 weeks. Then they'll increase to twice a week!!! I suppose the good thing about all that testing is that if there was a mistake today about the baby being a boy, we'll find out sooner rather than later! :)

It's been a long day, so I better run for now. Just wanted to give a little more info to all those interested readers out there!

Oh yeah, we'll get back to everyone about a name...maybe! :)

IT'S A BOY!!!!

Hey everyone!!!

I'm going for my sonogram today, so please pray!!!

Lord willing, we'll come home with a little blue or pink outfit!! HEHE I'm excited!

I'll keep everyone posted on the big news...I promise!

Have a good day, Blogworld!

(Yes, I know--lots of exclamation points--Can you blame me??) :)

Our Christmas Plans

Well, it's that time of year!

Every store is lit up with lights and sounds of Christmas. Everyone is getting into the "spirit" of
the holidays.

While I don't truly view Christmas as a "Christian" holiday, but rather a time to spend with family and friends, I recognize that all over the world, Christians are celebrating Christ's birth during this time. I think it is a good reminder that our Creator humbled himself and became a man. Why? To make a way for men to be reconciled to a holy, righteous God! Any reminder of that sacrifice offered at God's feet on our behalf is a wonderful thing!!!

So, though the world has woefully lost the "true meaning" of this season, I do believe that Christians ought to take some time to relflect when we are surrounded by so many reminders of our Saviour's incarnation.

That's not to say that I don't enjoy the secular side of Christmas! I do enjoy giving gifts and having the holiday meal with all my family around as much as the next person! I even enjoy the holiday movies that are on every channel and the signs of Santa Clause! I love the music, the feelings, the lights, the joy of this season!

We will be enjoying lots of time with all our family this year. We will be giving simple gifts and enjoying the glee on the children's faces as they tear open those brightly wrapped packages!

All of these things go into why I love this time of year and why I think it's an important time to come aside and reflect on all the blessings in our lives. It's a time to see God's hand in each our lives and be thankful for all we've been given and seek to share some of our abundance with others!

Christmas greetings!

MERRY CHRISTMAS
and
HAPPY NEW YEAR'S!

I'm excited!

Only two days now until my precious parents are back home in the states! YAY!!!

It's been a trying few months without them here with us, but the Lord has been gracious and merciful through it all.

I'm looking forward to some personal time with them next week. I'm going to travel down to San Antonio and spend a few days with them before Thanksgiving, when all the family will show up! I'm excited about that too!! It'll be the first Thanksgiving in a few years that we will all be together to share the feast. Fun times I'm sure!

A Reminder To Pray

I know that this week's elections may have gone by unnoticed to some people, but I wanted to remind those who stop by here from time to time, that this shift of power does affect our lives directly!! It affects the men and women who are fighting in our place and for our freedom!

No matter your political views, we all have a responsibility to support and do all we can for the brave men and women on the various fronts of this war. Remember to pray for them as this is the greatest service we can do for them!

Also, as we were reminded last night at our prayer meeting, we have been given a command
(I Tim 2:1,2) by God to pray for those in leadership over us--to pray for our government, whether conservative or liberal.

So, let's commit to pray for our nation, our leaders--from the President on down to our local leadership--and for our troops, the men and women who risk their lives for our freedoms and our way of life.

The picture is my brother in law (in the middle) and two of the men who fight beside him everyday!

Pictures

Hey everyone! I thought I'd share some pictures from our last trip to San Antonio and Harlingen. My brother in law took most of the pictures. They aren't the greatest pictures of me, but everyone else looks good!!! :)



My nephews and niece with their wonderful Uncle Dave!
(Lft-Rt Perrin, Sarah, David, John Jason)


David and Erin--Steven's brother and sister


The couple behind us is Steven's sister and her fiance.



This one is evidence of what happens when you don't give me enough warning before taking a picture! hehehe

A Silly Thot

I don't usually share things like this here, but I thought it was funny, especially with upcoming holidays. Enjoy! :)



THE PREGNANT TURKEY

One year at Thanksgiving, my mom went to my sister's house for the traditional feast. Knowing how gullible my sister is, my mom decided to play a trick.

She told my sister that she needed something from the store. When my sister left, my mom took the turkey out of the oven, removed the stuffing, stuffed a Cornish hen, and inserted it into the turkey,and re-stuffed the turkey. She then placed the bird(s) back in the oven.

When it was time for dinner, my sister pulled the turkey out of the oven and proceeded to remove the stuffing. When her serving spoon hit something, she reached in and pulled out the little bird.

With a look of total shock on her face, my mother exclaimed, "Patricia, you've cooked a pregnant bird!"

At the reality of this horrifying news, my sister started to cry.

It took the family two hours to convince her that turkeys lay eggs!

Yep..................SHE'S BLONDE!

Walker family updates

I know it's been forever since I posted something personal. I have been dealing with morning sickness that lasts all day and fatigue that never goes away, no matter how much rest I am able to get! Oh, the joys of bringing a new life into the world! Truth be told, I wouldn't trade it for anything, but it has been a rough several weeks.

I am officially at the end of my first trimester. Little baby Walker is growing like crazy and soon, I'll be able to feel him/her playing around inside of me.

At ten weeks(I'm twelve now) I had my first sonogram!!! It's so awesome to see that tiny life inside of me, the heart beating so fast, the teeny arms and legs moving around!!! What a miracle this being pregnant is!!! The Lord is amazing in His creations, especially in His creation of human life! I am so blessed to be able to be a mother again and experience all of this wonder for the third time!!!! It isn't always fun or easy, as I've found out the hard way these past 8 weeks, but what a joy it is to know that with the Lord's blessings and grace, I will hold my little one at the end of all this hard work. Children truly are "an heritage of the Lord" and a blessing to be treasured always.

On other fronts, my parent will be getting back from the mission field in two weeks! It's been two and a half months since they left this time and I'm certainly looking forward to having them around again!

My younger brother has been serving in Iraq for the past four and a half months. He's coming home today!!!! I'm so excited and so very thankful that the Lord was merciful to him and kept him safe through it all. I'm looking forward to giving him a HUGE hug to welcome him home!

My husband's little brother is headed back to the war on Monday. Please pray for him if you think of it. David will be over there until next October. He's been home for the last two weeks, but it's the last time we'll see him until he comes home again. Things are so dangerous for him! Please pray for his safety and the Lord's protection over him through this next year.

Well, this is about all the time I have for right now. I hope to be able to post more often, but I never know what will happen around here! I'll do my best to keep everyone up to date with the goings-on of the Walker family!

A measure of trials is necessary
(John Newton's Letters)

A measure of trials is necessary for the exercise and manifestation of your graces; to give you a more convincing proof of the truth and sweetness of the promises made to a time of affliction; to mortify the body of sin; and to wean you more effectually from the world.

Faith upholds a Christian under all trials, by assuring him that every painful dispensation is under the direction of his Lord; that chastisements are a token of His love; that the season, measure, and continuance of his sufferings, are appointed by Infinite Wisdom, and designed to work for his everlasting good; and that grace and strength shall be afforded him, according to his need.

God Moves In Mysterious Ways

William Cowper, 1774


God moves in a mysterious way
His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea,
And rides upon the storm.

Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never-failing skill,
He treasures up His bright designs,
And works His sovereign will.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;
The clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy, and shall break
With blessing on your head.

Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
But trust Him for his grace;
Behind a frowning providence,
He hides a smiling face.

His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flower.

Blind unbelief is sure to err,
And scan His work in vain;
God is His own interpreter,
And He will make it plain!

From Daily Light, Sept. 12, Evening portion

The Lord taketh my part.

The Lord heareth thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee; send thee help from the sanctuary and strengthen thee out of Zion. We will rejoice in thy savation, and in th name of our God we will set up our banners. Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we will remember the name of the Lord our God. They are brought down and fallen, but we are risen and stand upright.

When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him---There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be temted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

If God be for us, who shall be against us?-- The LORD is on my side, I will not fear.
Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us...he will deliver us.

Ps 118:7, Ps. 20:1-2,5,7-8; Isa. 59:19--ICor.10:13; Rom 8:31--Ps. 118:6; Dan. 3:17

News, News, News!!!!!

I'M PREGNANT!!!!!!

I found out yesterday that we're expecting again! I'm so excited!

Pray for Steven and I and this little one inside of me that the Lord would be merciful and gracious through the next eight months.

Psalm 139:14
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.

3 Steps to Marriage

Ok, so I thought I would visit this theme, aided by my father, Pat Horner...Short thoughts on courtship and marriage...how long does "courtship" last?

Taken from the biblical account of Isaac and Rebekah--

1. Help her get off the camel.

2. Say I do.

3. Take her into the tent.

Is it the Lord's will for me to be with this person? If the answer is yes, them marry them already!!!

Thanks, Dad, for letting me share your advice to all those out there comtemplating marriage!

Any thoughts, people??

ALL THAT I NEED

Based on The Valley of Vision prayer "Fullness"

By Stephen Altrogge

In you is strength to sustain me,

And wisdom enough to guide my hand.
Mercy enough to forgive me,

And power to finish what You began.

All that I need is in You, Jesus,

The fountain of grace that overflows.

All that I need is in You, Jesus.

You are my only hope.

You are my only hope

In You is fullness of gladness,

And fullness of grace for every need,
Rest for the ones who are weary,

And beauty surpassing all that we've seen.

All that I need is in You, Jesus,

The fountain of grace that overflows.

All that I need is in You, Jesus.

You are my only hope.

You are my only hope.

You satisfy my heart.

You satisfy my soul.

Oh, help me always know

All that I need is in You, Jesus,

The fountain of grace that overflows.

All that I need is in You, Jesus.

You are my only hope.

You are my only hope!

Welcome to the Dawsons!!!!! Shaunna and Blake have joined the wonderful world of blogging. Check it out, people, and leave them some love!

Btw, I have no idea what's going on with that space in my favorites...it's not there in my template, so who knows what the kink is this time with our wonderful Blogger!!!! :)

Gleanings from my reading today...

Luke 12: 29 - 32

Seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of a doubtful mind.

For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.

But rather, seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

Romans 8: 14-17

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

The Spirit itself bearing witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

For I reckon the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in us.

My Testimony

I realized recently that I have never shared my personal testimony or anything really personal about my life. Here is a short version of my salvation and the events leading up to God's true work in my life.

I will try to write more on a personal level when I post in the future. There are always so many thoughts in my mind that I could put together as a post, but finding the time and the quiet to put it all together...that's another story! I'm hoping though that as things fall into a routine again for me that I will be able to write more often, with more meaningful posts.

I hope you enjoy reading about what the Lord did in my life over four years ago. Maybe I'll get the chance to write in more detail about it later.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I grew up in church, in a Christian family with a father who was a pastor. I’ve been taught the doctrines of grace for as long as I can remember.

When I was 13, I made a profession of faith. For a long time, I really thought I was saved, but by the time I was 17, almost 18, I realized that I wasn’t a true Christian. Many people ask me why wasn’t I saved at 13, and the only thing I can say is that I was trying to be and act as everyone expected me to act. Though I truly believed that I was saved, I think I “made a profession” to be what I thought was expected of me.

Shortly before graduating from high school, Steven and I started seeing each other. He proposed the following February, and we planned a June wedding! I was sure that marriage and the hope of children would keep me happy, but the Lord had other plans for me!

Our marriage was wonderful, but my lost condition only made me more and more unhappy, no matter how wonderful a life I was leading. In June 2001, almost a year after we were married, I went through my first miscarriage. Two months later, I was pregnant again, but lost that baby in October.

Between these two miscarriages, we bought the house here in Coleman, and as a result, Steven was let go from his job. Though the Lord did provide a temporary job for him, we moved in with his parents because he could not find a job here in Coleman. We had to put moving on hold.

The Lord used the stress of the miscarriages and our having to live with Steven’s parents to bring me to the end of myself. I finally came to the place that no matter what anyone thought, I had to get right with God.

One night driving home alone, the Lord brought I John 1: 9 to my mind. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” I realized that there wasn’t anything that I could do to “be better” outside of the Lord Jesus Christ. I cried out to the Lord right there, asking for His mercy and deliverance from my sinful state. I praise the Lord for hearing me and fulfilling that promise in my life that night!

I have not always been faithful to my Lord, but I am so thankful that He is always faithful to me and brings me back, forgiving me over and over, no matter what I do or say to offend Him. I can attest to the fact that no matter how I fail or what trials come into my life, Jesus Christ is with me and within me, helping me and keeping me day by day. I praise Him for His unfailing love that surrounds me, holds me and preserves me!

Another favorite

I've added a new link to my favorites. I intend to start checking this blog everyday as I do with many of the others.
I don't know Esther Ellis personally, but I was very blessed to read through her blog and see her heart to serve God and become more Christ-like.
After reading through her archives, I feel like I almost do know her and her family! :) I hope that each of you will check out "My World" when you have a few minutes.

Thanks

Hi, friends. I was very encouraged by the uplifting responses I've gotten over the past week. What a blessing it is to know that the brethren are praying for me and for my church. Nichole, thank you especially for all you've done to hold me up and be there for me the last few days.

The Lord is so gracious to His people! He knows that we need encouragement. He knows exactly when we are struggling and sends us just the right hope for that moment.

Call unto me and I will answer thee and show thee great and mighty things! Jer. 33:3

Restful chaos

My world is in chaos.

Our nation is at war against an intrepid, crazed enemy. The Middle East is in an uproar. Iran, Lebanon, Iraq, N. Korea...anyone who's connected at all knows that we face a threat like no other at this time in our history. Whether this is WWIII, I am no authority to say, but I do know that the physical world around us is becoming more and more dangerous to Americans and to Christians everywhere.

On a closer plane, our personal life is stirred up.

We are without a home of our own, and though I GREATLY appreciate being able to stay at my parents home, there is an unrest in not having a place for my family to come apart from everyone else. I miss my own home, my own kitchen! :) I know many of you who read this can relate!

My family, my brothers, my in-laws...so many trials of life compass us right now!!! My husband and I both have a brother serving our country by fighting in this war in Iraq. How our hearts are burdened for their safety and return to us! My parents-in-law are going through great trials with their health. Another of my brothers is facing a difficult transition is his life.

Our church has just unexpectedly lost a precious, precious brother in Christ. His family, all of us who are his friends, we are all hurting and grieving. We just yesterday laid our brother's body to rest, knowing that already his spirit, his soul is eternally resting with our Saviour. We are all emotionally and physically worn from the events of this week.

Where can we find rest at times like this when the world around us is falling apart, our family is going through difficulties, and our church is facing such a loss?

Throughout my reading the past few days, there has been a theme of God's sovereignty, God's presence with His people and His care for us in the midst of the storms of life. Truly, the only peace I can find, the only trust I have is in this Almighty God I serve. This is the God that knows all these things-- from the greatest threat to the smallest hurt!

How can I despair when I know that God's hand is moving and controlling all things! He knows each moment, each day!
He knew what this week would hold for the Barker family.
He knew what this move would mean for me.
He knew what my brothers would face these past months.
And He alone knows what the future holds.

So, though there are times I feel that my world is coming apart and will never be "right" again, I have a place to turn. I have a Refuge in this storm.

I praise You, Lord, for your providences in my life! Thank you for holding me through all of it! Thank you that I can come to you through the blood of Christ and find all I need to face what each new day may bring. Thank you, my God, for choosing me, calling me out of my sin and restoring my soul! Help me to continue to see Your hand in my life and to continue trusting through whatever YOU bring my way. I love you, Lord!

But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.
Psalm 115:1

The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.
Psalm 145:17

The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.
Psalm 126:3

For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will lead us even unto death.
Psalm 47:14

But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. Selah.
Psalm 49:15

The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.
The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.
Psalm 145:8, 9

I will extol thee, my God, O King; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever.
Psalm 145:1

After a long silence...

Hey Blog world!! I'm still alive! I've survived packing and moving! haha...the Lord has been giving much grace.

I'll try to sit down and write a longer, more interesting post soon, but now, I'm off to do some housework!

Just thought I'd share

Morning and Evening
by Charles Spurgeon

June 27
Evening ...

I Corinthians 7:20
Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called.


Some persons have the foolish notion that the only way in which they can live for God is by becoming ministers, missionaries, or Bible women. Alas! how many would be shut out from any opportunity of magnifying the Most High if this were the case. Beloved, it is not office, it is earnestness; it is not position, it is grace which will enable us to glorify God. God is most surely glorified in that cobbler's stall, where the godly worker, as he plies the awl, sings of the Saviour's love, ay, glorified far more than in many a prebendal stall where official religiousness performs its scanty duties. The name of Jesus is glorified by the poor unlearned carter as he drives his horse, and blesses his God, or speaks to his fellow labourer by the roadside, as much as by the popular divine who, throughout the country, like Boanerges, is thundering out the gospel. God is glorified by our serving Him in our proper vocations. Take care, dear reader, that you do not forsake the path of duty by leaving your occupation, and take care you do not dishonour your profession while in it. Think little of yourselves, but do not think too little of your callings. Every lawful trade may be sanctified by the gospel to noblest ends. Turn to the Bible, and you will find the most menial forms of labour connected either with most daring deeds of faith, or with persons whose lives have been illustrious for holiness. Therefore be not discontented with your calling. Whatever God has made your position, or your work, abide in that, unless you are quite sure that he calls you to something else. Let your first care be to glorify God to the utmost of your power where you are. Fill your present sphere to His praise, and if He needs you in another He will show it you. This evening lay aside vexatious ambition, and embrace peaceful content.

One verse...well, half a verse really!

I thought that in the midst of all my hectic, moving craziness, I'd stop a moment and share a verse the Lord put on my heart from my reading last night before I fell into exhausted sleep!

Proverbs 10:3a ~
The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famine:

In all the business (read: busy-ness!) of packing, sorting, moving and storing, this verse encouraged me that even though I can only grab 15 minutes here or 5 minutes there to stop and read a chapter of Scripture, God will keep my soul! Thank you, Lord!!!

I'm sad!

Well, I no longer have a living room. I have boxes instead! No more pictures on my walls. No more pretty candles setting on tables. No more cookbooks in my kitchen. I'm a little sad...Ok, a lot sad. This house we're leaving is our very first house to buy and decorate and love! It's hard to leave so many memories behind, but I know we will keep them locked in our hearts no matter where we end up next! As I have cleaned out closets, taken pictures down, wrapped candles in towels to keep them safe in the move, I have reflected on all that we love about living in this house and all the wonderful things that happened here!

We prepared the extra room for our daughter. What love and excitement there was as my mom and I sewed the bed covers and the valances for the windows! We came home from the hospital that March day without her and grieved for her in this house! How I remember that room covered with condolence flowers rather than diapers and pink little girl stuff!

A year and three months later, we brought our son home to this house! What a wonderful, joyful day that was!!! I was exhausted, but so very happy to finally hold that little boy I had waited for those nine months. I've watched him accomplish all his "firsts" in this house. In that room that's now covered with his little boy toys- hammers, wrenches, tool table, bat, balls, gloves, cars, stuffed animals. The whole room shouts, " A little boy lives here!" It's been a memorable two years, watching Ryan change from a newborn baby to the active two year old he is today.

Steven and I have faced so many things together. We had this house to come home to, to be together here when the world was too much, when things weren't going the way we had envisioned them. We will miss our first house!!

But with all the changes, there is an anticipation of what the future holds. We know that things won't always be easy over the next few months without a home of our own, but we will treasure the time we have with my parents and use this time to prepare for our future and help our family. The Lord has been good to us, and I know He will continue to guide our steps as we embark on this new journey in our lives!

My brother

My younger brother will be leaving by the end of this month to fight for our country. As far as we know right now, he will not be home again until after Christmas. Please pray that the Lord would keep His hand of protection over Stephen, and in mercy, bring him home safely.

Confessions from my heart

Do you ever struggle with fear of the future?
Do you ever struggle with not being in "control" of every detail of your life?

For the last few months, I have been struggling with these things. You would think that with all the Lord has brought me through to this point, I would have already learned to rest in Him and wait on Him for His perfect will to be worked out in my life!!! But, no, I seem to constantly have to be reminded of these things!

Only a few nights ago, the Lord showed me once again how I was in need of repentance and cleansing for the sins I had allowed in my life--pride, selfishness, disobedience. Even idolatry, for I had taken my eyes, my focus, off of Christ alone and had placed it instead on myself and my "needs." I was to the point where I was no longer making God's Word a priority in my life. This is an area where I struggle often--daily time with the Lord, reading and praying.

It amazes me how Christ refuses to let me go! Even with my inward refusals to try to read His Word, He used the novels I was engrossed in to bring my mind to His word anyway!!! Every book I picked up spoke about a Christian struggling to walk with the Lord and keep their mind on Christ. The verses and prayers that those fictional characters uttered spoke to my rebellious heart. I knew that the Spirit was speaking to me, even in my sinful willfulness, to draw me once again to the cross.

I am so thankful that though my falls may be great or may be often, Jesus will never leave me! He will never let me go back to the pit! He promises to hear my cries and pick me up again and bring me back into the fold.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. I John 1

I can say today that though I'm surrounded by uncertainties, I am once again resting on Christ. Maybe this time, I will learn to daily ask for His grace and daily keep my eyes on my Saviour! Please pray for me that His will would be my focus, that His will would be my desire. May our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ be glorified in me and through me!

Praise You In This Storm

I want to dedicate this song to Abigail's memory and to my father-in-law, Casey Walker. May we all learn to praise our loving, sovereign God in the midst of the storms of life. "You are Who You are, no matter where I am!"


I'll Praise You In This Storm
Casting Crowns


I was sure by now,
God, You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining

But as the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away.

I'll praise You in this storm,
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn,
I will praise You in this storm!

I remember when
I stumbled in the wind.
You heard my cry;
You raised me up again.
My strength is almost gone.
How can I carry on
If I can't find You?

But as the thunder rolls,
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you."
And as Your mercy falls,
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away.

I'll praise You in this storm,
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am.
Every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand.
You never left my side,
And though my heart is torn,
I will praise You in this storm!


I lift my eyes unto the hills.
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
The Maker of Heaven and Earth!

Welcome!!!

I just wanted to send out a "Welcome!" to little Naomi Joy Risse who was born last night. Mike and Misty, may the Lord be with you and bless you as you love and raise your precious daughters. Misty, I'll be praying that God will give you much strength as you recover and care for your newborn!

To my dear Vivian-- Yippee! Another baby-grand!!!

My parents should be resting in Bangkok right about now. In twelve hours they will be on their way to Taipei. Then to LA, Houston, and finally, Friday morning, they will arrive in San Antonio, exhausted, but so happy to be home! If you think about it, please pray for their safety while traveling and for the rest they will need once they're home.

Busy!

Well, it's been a few days, so I thought I'd at least post something short to let everyone know I'm still alive!!!

We just had someone put a contract on our house that we've been trying to sale for almost 9 months now. I'm busy getting all those details worked out! Now, I get to start thinking about packing and storing and moving, etc, etc! Fun stuff!

We don't have another house we want to move into right now, so we're going to be able to spend a lot of time with my parents who are getting home from the mission field this week. We haven't seen them in five months, and they have to return overseas at the end of August. Staying with them for awhile will be a blessing!

This month is packed full of things to take care of, places to go, people to see, and bridal showers to plan and attend. This week alone, we'll be traveling to San Antonio to pick up my parents from the airport, celebrate Ryan's 2nd birthday, see family, and oh, yeah, try to steal some time for our 6th anniversary!

We'll also try to get to the hospital to spend some time with Steven's Dad. He's doing better but will have to be in the rehab hospital longer than the doctors thought because they're having to put him in a full leg brace since he can't move his leg the little bit he's supposed to move it--though, I'm not too sure how anyone can move their leg when they DON'T HAVE A HIP! (Wow, that's a long sentence! Is it a run-on?) Keep praying for him!

When we get back next week, I'll be getting my parents house ready for them to return and for us to move into. I'll be packing and getting our belongings into storage.

Of course, there's always the everyday, normal activities to keep up with! So, my family and I will be super busy this month. I'll try to post when I get the chance. I have some more edifying post topics floating around my head, but I have to be able to sit and think and type them out--Not sure that's going to happen for at least a few days!

Be patient, Blogworld, I'll join you truly as soon as I can think straight again!

Update

Hello everyone.

I called many of you today letting you know that Casey came through the surgery and was on his way to recovery. Well, I received another call from Cindi saying that when she got back from getting lunch, she found out that Casey was still in surgery. There ended up being more complications with getting the hip out due to some scar tissue. The doctors had to break his femur bone in order to complete the operation. They packed his hip and wired the femur back together. Six hours after going into surgery, Casey is now in recovery.

This is only the beginning of a long road for Casey. Please continue to pray for him and for our family. Cindi is holding up well.

Thank you to all of you from Steven and I for your prayers and financial support during this time. It's been a blessing to see the Lord providing through His saints. I will continue to share updates as I am able.

Prayer Request

Hello to everyone out there!

I'll keep it brief this morning. At 6AM this morning, my father-in-law, Casey Walker, went into surgery to remove his hip and begin treatment for the infection that attacked the artificial hip. This is the beginning of the 6-9 months that he will be out of work due to this surgery and the next, the one to replace the hip. Please remember him and his wife, Cindi, and the rest of the family today and throughout the next several months. May our Lord be gracious and merciful in this situation. He truly is Jehovah-Rafah, God our Healer! May He receive the glory in all of this!

To everyone out there who sent this to me over the last week...Here's your answers!

1. FIRST NAME? Rebekah

2. ARE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Not that I know of...My daddy chose my name, so you'll have to ask him. I think it's just the biblical name he wanted for me! I do share the same middle name as my mom. Does that count?

3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Too many times in the last few days! What's wrong with me???

4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Sometimes, unless I'm in a hurry and then, it comes out all scribble-y :)

5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE Lunch meat? I'm not a lunch meat person, but if I have to eat it, I prefer roast beef

6. KIDS? Four in all: two miscarriages, one precious little girl that was stillborn and my beautiful, bouncy little boy!

7. IF YOU HAD NOTHING ELSE TO DO, WHAT WOULD YOU DO? READ!

8. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? I guess you could say I do...I keep a journal of my church notes.

9. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Depends on my mood, so I probably use it way too much!

10. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yes

11. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? No, I'm not into the whole "trying to kill yourself" sports

12. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Well, I'm not into cereal anymore than lunch meat, but if I have to eat it, I like the healthy kind--Yes, I know! Boring, boring, boring!!!!

13. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Yes, normally, if I even wear shoes that require laces. It is summer here in Tejas...Sandals, sandals, sandals!

14. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Not really...At least not physically!

15. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Right now, it's Blue Bell's Strawberry Cheesecake--YUM, YUM!!!

16. SHOE SIZE? 7 1/2

17. RED OR PINK? Pink

18. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? The sin that doth so easily beset me....

19. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? Right now, my parents who I haven't seen in almost five months!!!

20. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Faded denim capris...No shoes 'cause that's how I like it best!

21. LAST THING YOU ATE? Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream--last night after dinner

22. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The wonderful quiet of my house and the birds chirping outside my window

23. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Lavender...cause it's so pretty!

24. FAVORITE SMELL? I don't know...I'll have to think about this one...Ok, so I've answered all the questions and still don't have an answer for this one. Y'all will just have to be kept hanging! :)

25. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Vivian

26. FAVORITE HYMN? "In Christ Alone"

27. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Definitely!!! She's like my second mom!!!

28. FAVORITE DRINK? Starbucks Vanilla Latte or Capucchino(sp?)--YUMMY!!!

29. FAVORITE SPORT? Don't think I have a favorite sport, but since my hubby likes baseball so much, I guess I'll choose that!

30. EYE COLOR? Brown

31. HAT SIZE? I have NO idea...I don't wear hats!

32. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Yes, though I wish I didn't have to since my eyes are constantly DRY!!!!!! Anybody want to spring for LASIKS????

33. FAVORITE FOOD? Can I say steak and still be a lady?? But I do love it!

34. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDING? Definitely happy ending!

35. FAVORITE MOVIE? I'm not sure...I really enjoyed the LOTR series, but that's not very "girl-like." I'm a fan of most chic flicks, as long as they're pretty clean! I guess I like anything that's real enough for me to get into it...it has to make me laugh, cry or something equaling emotional for me to REALLY like it!

36. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Pink

37. SUMMER OR WINTER? Neither...I don't enjoy the extremes...Spring is the time for me!!!

38. HUGS OR KISSES? Don't want to live without either, so do I have to choose?

39. FAVORITE DESSERT? My Oreo cheesecake...All these questions are making me hungry!!!

40. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? Bible:Mark and Psalms, other than that, Francine Rivers' Mark of the Lion Series and her books on the women in the Bible who played important roles in the genealogy of Christ. I read about Ruth last night...Yes, I read the whole book!

41. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? We're very patriotic...It's an American flag with an eagle behind it.

42. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Criminal Minds and part of CSI:NY--Let me just say, nothing beats the original!

43. FAVORITE SOUNDS? My son's voice, especially as a newborn baby and my husband saying he loves me.

44. FAVORITE KIND OF MUSIC? Any song that lifts my heart and mind to Christ.

45. THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME? Canada, I think, but maybe it was the mountains of Mexico...I don't remember, and I slept through Canada, so does that even count? (Sorry, cc, I just couldn't get into it, but what do you expect from a teenager?)

46. WHAT'S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT? I don't know if I have any special talents, but everyone says I do a good job playing the piano. I would like to think that I'm a good friend as well...I don't' know...I don't like answering questions like this!

47. WHEN AND WHERE WERE YOU BORN? San Antonio, Texas- March 24, 1981

48. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Four different people...All friends!

You're supposed to laugh when you read this, copy and paste, delete, and add your own answers, send it back to me, and send it to others, or post it on your own blog. If you don't (except for the "laugh" part), I understand and don't blame you, as I normally don't do these, either. But sometimes you gotta oblige some persistent people....

Do you have a son?

I have been reading Carolyn Mahaney's posts on GirlTalk on the subject of raising sons to be men. I would encourage any parents or future parents (that pretty much covers all of us!) to read her posts, along with the initial article she mentions. Mrs. Mahaney points us to the Scriptures to find our standard for teaching and raising our sons to become the men God would have them to be! Check it out!!!

Well, I'm finally able to sit and post again. It's been crazy around my house the last few days!

We had a good trip to San Antonio and lots of good visiting time with our family. Steven's dad is going in for his surgery on June 6, so if the Lord brings him to mind, please pray for him. It was hard for Steven and I to come home, knowing what his parents are about to go through. Our hearts were torn, wanting to be with them, but knowing we had responsibilities waiting for us here at home. But the Lord has been good. He is in control, and we know His hand is in this situation. What a blessing it was to us to see how the church in Elmendorf is reaching out to care for and love Casey and Cindi through these difficulties! God is truly faithful!

We have a busy, busy month ahead of us!!! My parents are returning from the mission field in about two weeks now. I'm excited about seeing them again!

This month also includes Ryan's second birthday!!! My little baby isn't so little anymore. How time has flown by these two years! It amazes me to look back and see how the Lord worked all together for our good over the last three years--good that led us to the birth of our first son!

On June 17, Steven and I will be married six years! Again, looking back, it's amazing to see the providence of God in both our lives to bring us together, to keep us together, to join our hearts so completely! Sometime when I have more time, I'll have to share some of the history of how our families came to meet and how Steven and I were brought together.

Well, my son is with a friend today, so I'm going to try to take advantage of the quiet time while I still have it! See you all around Blogworld!

Random Happenings...

It's a good morning here at the Walker's house. Steven's off to work, since about 5:30 this morning. He's such a hard worker! The Lord has blessed me with a wonderful husband!

Ryan has had his breakfast and is all clean again. His high chair too...that was a mess to clean up!!! haha It's a lot of fun now that he's eating by himself now! Breakfast, lunch and dinner are great adventures now to the little guy! How much food can he actually get in his mouth??

I'm in my normal morning routine-- get up, get Ryan up, read email and blogs and sometimes chat with my dad...like I'm doing right now!!! I'm going to go get some quiet time to read here in a few minutes. I want to delve back into Mark. I've missed reading the last several days and I really, really miss it!!!

I have to finish some laundry and pack bags for us. We're headed to the big city of San Antonio to visit Steven's family for the weekend. So, I'm off to be diligent and get my work done! Talk to you all next week sometime!!!

Book Recommendation

Hey everyone! I've just spent the last two hours while my son was napping reading the moving conclusion of Francine River's A Voice in the Wind, the first book in her Mark of the Lion series. Let me just say, it was one of the most moving accounts of a true Christianity I have ever read. Though fiction, this story is based on the historical accounts of early Christians being tortured and martyred throughout the Roman empire.

I was so moved as I read of this young woman's faith, so small and uncertain in the beginning, but great and unfailing as she learned to lean on Jesus for her strength! I wouldn't recommend this book for young readers, but I definitely would encourage everyone else to pick up this book. I was challenged and convicted as I read, and I am looking forward to reading the next two books as soon as I can get to a library or a book store!

~A Shout-out (to borrow a term from my dear Jamie!) to Vivian Risse for pushing me to pick up this book -- Sister, what a blessing it was!!!

I'm way too excited about this...

Can I just say...I succesfully added URL to my blog for the first time!!!!
Yay for me!! I think I'm finally learning something! Thanks to those who gave me much needed asistance...you know who you are!!! :)

Welcome, Sarah!!!

Hey everyone! My friend Sarah has entered the world of blogging! Let's make her feel welcome!

Psalm 145

Hey Blog world!

I have had a difficult couple of days. This morning though, the Lord woke me up with a refreshed spirit. I wanted to share a few verses of this Psalm with you all, but when I attempted to use only a few verses, the rest wouldn't let me go! So, I hope you will take a few minutes to read through all twenty-one verses. I pray that they will bless your soul as they have mine this morning!

Psalm 145


I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name forever and ever.

Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name forever and ever.

Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable.
One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.

I will speak of the glorious honor of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works.

And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts: and I will declare thy greatness.

They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness.

The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.

The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.

All thy works shall praise thee, O LORD; and thy saints shall bless thee.

They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom, and talk of thy power;

To make known to the sons of men his mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of his kingdom.

Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion endureth throughout all generations.

The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those that be bowed down.

The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season.

Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing.

The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.

The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.

He will fulfill the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them.

The LORD preserveth all them that love him: but all the wicked will he destroy.

My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD: and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.

Amen

Mother's Day

God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love!!!

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful mothers out there! May God continue to give you grace and strength to minister in your special capacity!

Hey Everyone!

Check out our Jamie's Friday prompt. I left my comment on her site. Check it out there if you're interested!

Looking to Jesus

I Need Thee, Precious Jesus

Frederick Whitfield, 1829-1904

I need Thee, precious Jesus,
For I am full of sin;
My soul is dark and guilty,
My heart is dead within:
I need the cleansing fountain,
Where I can always flee,
The blood of Christ most precious,
The sinner's perfect plea.

I need Thee, precious Jesus,
For I am very poor;
A stranger and a pilgrim,
I have no earthly store:
I need the love of Jesus
To cheer me on my way,
To guide my doubting footsteps,
To be my strength and stay.

I need Thee, precious Jesus,
I need a friend like Thee,
A friend to soothe and pity,
A Friend to care for me:
I need the heart of Jesus
To feel each anxious care,
To tell my every trial,
And all my sorrows share.

I came across this hymn this morning as I was practicing. It spoke to my heart in a special way. I wanted to share it's words with you.

Hebrews 4:14-16
Seeing then we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.
For we have not an high priest that cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy to help in time of need.

The Lord has seen fit to visit our family with physical, bodily trials recently. Steven's mom has had stroke-like symptoms, difficulty breathing and walking; she has also suddenly begun to lose her hearing. His dad has just this week gotten word from his doctors that he will have to go through some extensive surgery to remove his artificial hip, clear an infection and once again have his hip replaced. He will be enduring 6-9 months of recovery and rehab.

When these trials of life come our way, what are we to do? How should we respond? Are we justified in becoming angry with God for allowing these things, for not exercising His sovereignty by keeping these things from us? I will borrow words from our Brother Paul--GOD FORBID!!!

Romans 8 is often quoted during times of difficulties..."All things work together for good...." I think that we often forget the rest of that verse and the verses following. "All things work together for good to them that are called according to HIS PURPOSE. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn of many brethren." (Rom. 8:28, 29)

What a rest we will experience when we learn that these hard things come because it is God's purpose to make us into the image of His Son, our Christ!!! Is there any greater reward?

I know that this lesson is not easy to learn. Submission to providence is easily talked, taught and preached about, but to actually put it into practice-- What a glorious accomplishment that is-- an accomplishment impossible to attain outside of God's goodness and grace and the empowering of the Spirit!

Romans 8:35-
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
NAY, in all these things, we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

My prayer is that I would find my rest(trust) in Jesus my Lord, that my heart would be submissive to God's hand in my life and my family, and that I would not entertain one errant thought towards my Saviour. Christ died for my sin; He has seen fit to make me His daughter. Can I do anything else, but trust and obey and follow on though I cannot see the path, though I do not understand the way? If ever He loved me once, I KNOW, without any doubt, that He will love me always, even unto eternity. I can take my burdens, my needs, my failures and unfaithfulness to Him and KNOW that Jesus will hear, forgive and give me strength to persevere!

My question for all of you today is this: What are the trials of your heart and life today? Are you trying to figure things out in your own strength or are you looking to Jesus, trusting that "He doeth all things well"? Are you trusting Him to provide?

I hope and pray that you will find some comfort in the thoughts I have shared today, but more importantly, in reading God's word and searching these things out for yourself. My desire is to be a help to others because of all that God has brought me through already and all He is teaching me now. May my God be glorified today through me!

Thoughts and questions on prayer -- taken from my pastor's Wednesday evening devotion--

What do we ask from the Lord when we go to him in prayer? Are we concerned with His glory, His holiness? Or are we merely focused on setting our needs before Him? Yes, we are supposed to ask that we may receive, but should all our focus be on ourselves, or is prayer more than that?

In Matthew 6, we find the Lord's model prayer. Notice that Jesus himself begins with petitioning the Father for the holiness of His name--"Hallowed be thy name." Is our heart's desire the holiness, the sanctifying of God's name?

As my pastor shared with us last night, we can only pray our heart's desires. This requires us to train our hearts and minds to seek, not just our needs and the needs of our brethren, but the holiness of God! "Seek ye first the kingdom of God."

Do our lives, our prayers, our actions reveal our desire to see God's name glorified and preeminent?

Do our lives, the way we live, the things we do, the choices we make express the desires we bring before God in prayer? Are we hypocrites that pray one thing in our closets, but live a life completely opposite of all that we've just asked from God?

We must live our lives in such a way to sanctify the name of God and honor Him above all! From Pastor Scott's message last night, "We can only make a difference when we ARE different!" This difference begins, not with our hearts, but with God's word! Desire it, live it, give an account of it!

"Our Father, who art in heaven, sanctify thy name!"

New links...Explanation for my lack of blogging! :)

Hey everyone! I've been surfing around the web and have discovered two more encouraging, educational sites.

The first is "Girl Talk." While I haven't read everything these women have to share, I've been impressed with what I have read. It is at least a place where Christian women in all walks of life can find some encouragement in the everyday things!

I also added a link to CBMW, The Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. Again, I have not perused the entire site, but I did come acroos some helpful resources. I hope you will take the time to check it out.


My life has been unusually full the past few weeks, but I will be trying to post something a bit more personal soon! The Lord has been dealing with me about keeping my priorities straight, and this blog has to come after many other responsibilities! So, be patient with me. There will be more normal posts soon!

Help! I'm computer illiterate!!!

Does anyone out there have simple instructions on how to put URL into a post? I've seen everyone else do it, but I can't figure it out!!! Also, I know you all noticed that my title on the post with pictures keeps disappearing! Anyone have any ideas there? And last, how in the world do I make my sidebar stay at the top of the page???? HELP!! And try not to laugh at my helplessness too much!

In response to Jamie's Friday prompting...

The American Dream...
Well, I have read the responses from Once Dead Poet and from Michael Stone. I have to say the I agree with both of them!

The American Dream can be either detrimental or helpful. Our attitude towards our station in life, our "freedoms", our "rights" is determined solely by our heart.
The American Dream is the dream to be free, to be able to worship as you will, to be able to succeed in life, to advance in our jobs, to earn, save and use our money as we see fit. While there is nothing intrinsically wrong with any of these things, our culture has become warped to the point that no longer are these freedoms wonderful, God-given opportunities, but they are seen as rights, to be obtained no matter the consequences to family values, Christian morals, and without any thought of anyone beside NUMBER ONE!
This is why I believe it all comes down to a heart issue. If we can truly see that all good things come down from the Father, we can accept the freedoms and opportunities we have in this country as a gift from Him. God is sovereign. He has chosen that each of us live in this country and be born during this time in history. I believe we have a duty to take advantage of what the Lord has provided us, to use it to the best of our abilities to glorify Him and spread His gospel to the world around us.
So, Miss Moore, these are my not so organized thoughts on the matter! Feel free to give me lots of feedback everyone! I enjoy reading and learning from others view points!

The Walker Family

Me and my baby!
Isn't he cute?
Playing
Helping DadMy favorite boys!

I thought everyone might enjoy getting a look at the Walker family! These are our most up to date snap shots. Enjoy!

"Let us fix our eyes on Christ." Hebrews 12:2

Good morning, bloggers!
I thought I would share this with all of you. It is a daily devotion that I receive from Grace Gems. It was very fitting for me this morning, and I hope it will be a blessing to you all as well!



The secret of peace and power

(Gleanings from the Inner Life of Ruth Bryan)

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus." Hebrews 12:2

Do not be so often considering how much you love Jesus--but how much He loves you. Your love is but the effect; His is the cause. And the more you have to do with the cause, the more fully will the effect flow from it.

Just so with faith. If you would have it grow, it must be by looking at Jesus--not by looking at your faith. The more you "consider Him," and are continually coming unto Him--the more lively and healthy will be the graces of the Spirit in your soul. And you will rejoice--not in your fruitfulness--but only in Him and in what He has done and suffered.

If the Holy Spirit opens this to you, you will find the secret of peace and power.

It is all in Christ! He says, "Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, and come away!" Away from self, away from all besides--to be absorbed in Him!

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus." Hebrews 12:2

God's love- brief thots

Hello everyone!

I just learned that my friend Jamie has joined us in the blogging world! I'll look forward to what you have to share with all of us, Miss Jamie.

I'm afraid I have not too much to say this morning. Just normal Monday morning goings-on around here. I'm more tired than usual, but I'm pretty sure that's explained by my staying up until midnight reading. I'm terrible about that!!!

The Lord has been leading me along this week. I'm continually thankful for His faithfulness to me in spite of my failures. I don't think I could continue on this path of Christianity without the knowledge that He alone is my Keeper, the Author and Finisher of my faith. Nothing in me is able to keep me from falling. Praise Him for His wonderful love, everlasting, unchangeable love!

I need to get my day going, so I'll leave you all for now. God bless you today and this week!

Scattered Thots

So, I know that I'm getting redundant in my blog posts, here and on myspace, but please be patient with me. Those of you who can access both, keep checking in! One of these days, there will definitely be different posts on each site. Right now, my time is so limited to do any posting! I want to make sure that all my friends get to read about what's going on in my life! Thus, the same postings on each site. There may some differences though, so like I said, keep checking in!!!






Just some thoughts.....

Hello to everyone out there!

Thanks for taking time to read my sometimes scattered thoughts.

I just want to praise the Lord for his goodness and mercy. A very important person in my life had major surgery this week. She came through wonderfully! Thank you Lord for your hand of protection over her.

Pray for me. I am overwhelmed with all that's going on around me and within me. I have once again been trying to handle it all on my own, rather than allowing the Lord to work these things out. I know He does a much better job than I could ever imagine at keeping this world turning and my little piece of it together.

I'm listening to Fernando Ortega right now. His music is so soothing to my often hectic mind. I am so thankful to God for giving me music. How often he uses it to draw me to himself and back to His word. Here's just an excerpt of what I'm hearing right now...how appropriate it is!

"Lord of eternity, Father of mercy, look on my fainting soul...Touch me and make me whole. If you are my defender, who is against me? No one can trouble or harm me if you are my strength! All I ask, all I desire is to live in your house all my days! Lord of eternity, God of all mercy, come to my troubled soul. Keeper of all the stars, friend of the poorest heart, Touch me and make me whole. Lord of eternity, Father of mercy, come to my troubled soul! Keeper of all the stars, Friend of the poorest heart, Touch me and make me whole."

Well, as always, there is so much for me to do. I'm glad I had a least a few minutes to share a little of what is going on with me!

Until the next time....

Our Hiding Place

Hiding Place

Steven Curtis Chapman

In the distance I can see the storm clouds, coming my way;
And I need to find a shelter before it starts to rain.
I turn and run to You, Lord,
You're the only place to go
Where unfailing love surrounds me
When I need it most.

You're my Hiding Place.
Safe in your embrace,
I'm protected from the storm that rages.
When the waters rise, and I run to hide,
Lord, in You I find, my Hiding Place.

I'm not asking you to take away my troubles, Lord,
'Cause it's through the stormy weather
I learn to trust you more.
But I thank You for the promise
That I have come to know:
Your unfailing love surrounds me
When I need it most!

You're my hiding place!
Safe in your embrace,
I'm protected from the storm that rages.
When the waters rise, and I run to hide,
Lord, in You I find my Hiding Place!

So, let Your children seek you while you may be found
'Cause You're our only Refuge when the rain comes pouring down!

You're our Hiding Place!
Safe in Your embrace,
We're protected from the storm that rages.
When the waters rise, and we run to hide,
Lord, in You, we find our Hiding Place!

Lord, in You, we find our Hiding Place!

Lord, You are our Hiding Place!

Lord, you are my Hiding Place!

Let me hide myself in You.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


This is one of the songs I chose in remembrance of my daughter, Abigail. It was played at her funeral. To this day, these words are such a comfort and a promise to me! How awesome it is to know, without and beyond any shadow of a doubt, that my Lord, the Almighty God of the universe, is MY hiding place. It is in this Cleft of the Rock that I find shelter during difficult times.

Isa.26:4~
Trust in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD Jehovah is everlasting strength.

In this verse, "everlasting strength" is literally, "the rock of ages". Jesus Christ is our Rock-- Our shelter in the time of storms!


Psalm 61:2~
From the ends of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

This is my prayer, not just for today, but for every day, every temptation, every trial. May the Lord grant me the wisdom to always remember His promises when those stormy winds begin to blow in my life!


My heart and my thanks go out to all my friends and family today. I know there are many across this nation, even across the world, that are praying for me and my family today. May the Lord bless each of you for mourning with those that mourn and weeping with those that weep! Your prayers are felt and appreciated so very much!

Psalm 46 and other thots

I was reading yesterday in the Psalms. I made it to Psalm 46. I was amazed, as I always am, at how the LORD knows exactly what I need when I sit to read His word. What a comfort it is to know that He is our refuge, He will have, indeed, does have, the victory over all nations! What a promise that is when we consider missions, the spread of the gospel here at home and abroad. "Be still and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen; I will be exalted in the earth."

On a different note....This month holds many memories and marks many special moments in my life, beside the sad, but precious memories of my daughter. The Lord saved me four years ago this month! How thankful I remain...every day, by His grace!...for His mercy towards me, for His condescending to look upon me and bring me out of my pit of miry clay! I was, and still am, so undeserving! I fail so often. I continue to allow sin in my life! YET, He remains always faithful, drawing me continuously back to Himself. My prayer is that I will learn more of Christ, that I will be conformed everyday to HIS image and not the image of the world, that I will become more and more the godly woman my heavenly Father wants me to become.

This month also marks my birthday! Wow! I can't believe I'm going to be 25! It seems like such a milestone! I'm looking forward to spending some special time with my husband! (Thank you, Aunt Mary for keeping Ryan for us! You're making this time possible!)

Well, I have a full day ahead of me. May the Lord bless!
Rebekah

Reflections

Three years, next week...has it been that long already? The memories come; it seems like yesterday at times. The feelings, the emotions, the pictures in my head--they all wear on me.

I can still see her face. I can still feel her weight on my chest. I see those perfect, little fingers...perfect, yet, lifeless. Those beautiful eyes, forever closed. That perfect, rosebud mouth, forever silent. Yet, how her memory stays alive in my mind!The sights, the sounds, the smells of spring...they used to be heralds of a beautiful, happy time of year. Now, they bring sadness. They remind of a baby girl "born an angel."

Will I allow these thoughts to overwhlem me this time? Will I lose myself once again in sorrow and grief? Is this how I will always remember her...with grief and tears? Will there never be smiles and laughter?

There can be...I know that. I've even had that! Yet, once again this time of year brings difficult news, difficult situations. Will I forget the good, in light of the weighty matters?O, Lord, may it not be so!

Bring to mind my wonderful memories of carrying her, of sharing little moments with Steven, moments only he and I have with her. Help me to remember her moving within me, full of life and promise! Help me remember those nights spent lying awake dreaming of my firstborn! Help me to recapture the joys of that time!

Above all, help me to feel your overshadowing love for me. Remind me that death is NOT the end. One day, dear Lord, one day....

Jesus, hold my little one close and kiss her for me. Tell her how much she is missed and loved. How I long for the day when I will join her in praising and worshipping You. The day when all this pain and sorrow will be left behind, and truly, only joy remain!

Enable me now to keep on, to be strong, to love the son You have allowed me to keep. How precious he is. What a gift! What an answer to my cries! Show me how to be a strength, a help to the man I love, as he too grieves our daughter. May Your love and grace sourround and uplift us over the next few days.

Thank you Father, for all your promises-- promises fulfilled, promises to come! Thank you for redemption, for adoption, for salvation, for Your Son my Saviour! May I never lose sight of the bigger picture! Hold close to my heart the knowledge of YOUR Child's life and death and all it accomplishes for me. I love you , Lord.