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Day 140 of 365

 Verses to read today: Psalm 83 1 Chronicles 29:23-25 2 Chronicles 1:1 Solomon came to reign after David.  The Lord his God was with him and exalted him exceedingly 1 Kings 2:13-46 1 Kings 3:1-4 2 Chronicles 1:2-6 1 Kings 3:5-15 Solomon asks God for an understanding heart to judge His people, that he (Solomon)may discern between good and evil. 2 Chronicles 1:7-13 I can't begin to tell you God, how craptastic of a day this was.  Sure, I loved seeing my son graduate the 8th grade and start High School in August! Caleb graduates 8th Grade! I didn't regret spending time with our little family.  We went shoe shopping, ate lunch at Panera Bread and shopped for some books for summer reading.   Then, I ended the day pretty much telling my oldest to "leave tomorrow".  We got into an argument because she leaves for Oklahoma next Tuesday and hasn't found a job yet.   I did make her last tuition payment, but pains me that she still hasn't got a job....

Chapter 1: Creation: The Beginning of Life as We Know It

 Today, I started on my path with "The Story".  I am documenting my progress as this is the first time I will be going through this.  I believe this will be as closest as I come to actually reading the whole Bible! Understand The Story Several verses begin simply with "God said".  In what ways does this impact your view of God and His authority?   It does have an impact on my view---because I have read these words so many times when trying to read the Bible.  What I have taken from when "God said" is nothing ever questioned the validity of God.  It merely was and all was Good until he created Man "in his own image".  After everything He created, He even said "...it was very Good." Knowing that everything was only "Good" until he created man in his own image meant that "we" are loved by our creator first and foremost.  He merely saved the best for last! I often wonder, what would happen if he created us on that first...

Where Did This Summer Go?

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 I can't begin to tell you what a summer this has been.  My family of 3 remained busy, while Bailey worked at her internship at Yukon Wound Care and Rehab in Oklahoma, we did several things together, but low key, it was probably one of my favorite low key summers! We also added to our family by 1 dog:  Penny (Penn) came part of our family on July 14, 2024,  She has been with us a little over a month and I can't imagine my life without her. This has also been a time of struggle for my sister as she found out her dog, Ms. Ellie, is dying and there is nothing really she can do.  Her goal is to love her until she stops eating--poor girl is 20 lbs (19 of that is her big ole heart).  That dog is so happy, she doesn't realize herself how sick she really is. Last, I have had to step away from church duties.  I still read the Bible daily, but lately, I feel like my heart isn't it.  I plan to come back this Sunday, August 25, 2024, I need my church family. ...

The Joy Challenge: Wrapping Up The Challenge----Who's Next?

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JOURNAL Revisit the questions from Day 1 in light of the twenty-five- day journey you have just completed.  https://amomentwithkelly.blogspot.com/2024/05/part-i-joy-despite-your-circumstances.html 1. Regarding the circumstances of your life: • Where were you twenty-five days ago? Content, but uneducated as to where genuine joy comes from. I am so glad I went through this study - I learned so much about Paul, more than I ever did before and it has persuaded me to continue with my blogging.  I may not have full churches to write to, but I do want to share my story through Jesus' eyes. Paul found Joy in EVERY circumstance---even in death. I want that.    • Where are you today? I'm writing in my blog again!  It brings me joy, something I enjoyed doing so long ago, as it holds me accountable.  I am reading again - seriously, first book study I have finished AND have actively participated in each of the challenges - may be not to the extent I should have, but I w...

Part IV: Joy That Defeats Worry: Principle #20: Let People Help You

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   Memory Verse: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. --Philippians 4:6-7 Oh my - I can't believe this is almost the last principle.  It's the end---or is it the beginning?  This was by far something I have struggled my entire life--letting people help me.  I like to help people, I enjoy helping people.  Whether it is at work, helping people get their job done or helping here at home, in the community, online, it brings me great happiness. On the other hand, I am not great at asking for help, I'd rather struggle. Until the last 4 or so years, I felt asking for help was a sign of weakness.  But someone offering help, is a sign of strength "on the askers" part.  I know...I know...strange right?? JOURNAL How can you put yourself in a place of...

Part IV: Joy That Defeats Worry: Principle #19: Accept that More Money and Stuff Isn't the Answer

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  Memory Verse: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus --Philippians 4:6-7 JOURNAL Option 1: Give away something you own that you really like to someone who would enjoy it or could even use it more than you do. This will help you get a read on where you are with putting your joy in your stuff. Journal your thoughts after the transaction is complete.  Option 2: Lean into the wealth that is more than just stuff or money. After dinner, if the weather permits, pull some comfy chairs onto the front porch or driveway. Invite a few friends or neighbors over, and spend the evening with them. Bring out your beverage of choice and have extra available for whoever else stops by. If it is a bit chilly and you have a portable fire pit, fire it up, or bring out some blankets...

Part IV: Joy That Defeats Worry: Principle #18: Rehearse Your Blessings Daily

  Memory Verse: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus --Philippians 4:6-7 This is getting good - I mean, Wow!  I love the fact that we are to rehearse our blessings daily. (But how about that steak recipe!) -Filet Mignon, marinated with soy, water, lime juice, vinegar, dried garlic, citric acid, paprika, and lime oil. - Grilled to 120 degrees and let it rest to 125 degrees <<chef's kiss>> :-) We are to focus on what is: Noble: Majestic, full of dignity, awe-inspiring Right:   celebrated when people satisfy their obligations, including the obligation of giving God the glory for your success(es); marinate daily our minds on what is right. Pure : Celebrate the beauty of innocence; like a sacrificial love a mom has for a newborn child; the sheer beauty ...