The leaves are falling! Jump on in!

I love being outdoors. Love seeing the changing of the year come once again. The leaves are falling. Sometimes one by one, but at others you can hear many rush off the branches at once. Last night while I was sleeping I awoke to an owl making known he was there outside my window. This morning like many the geese are flying over head. The birds are chirping their jovial tunes while just over in the other field the hawks are flying overhead making a racket of noise.

My husband and son have been cutting wood and gathering it up for this winter's cold. I love the smell in the air and just the breeze that bring a chill for a sweater. This is a season of hope. We see trees go bare and birds flying south. What was once a soft sound in the breeze now turns to a crunch with each step outdoors.

We bring in each season with a goodbye to the one leaving. We all seem to have our favorites. I am a cool weather girl. Give me mittens, a scarf and a great coat and I am all set to go. Pour the sun over me and make me sweat and I will be a crab all day.

Life is a broad spectrum of changing seasons. We have our favorites and others, well, some seasons in life we wish would just hurry on by. Like now, in our home things are bare. The leaves have fallen and we can hear a crunch. This is a season in our life that I wish could go south with the geese. I hate struggle, don't you?  I hate the feeling of insecurity. Think those birds are feeling insecure that the weather is changing? I don't think so. They are in a hurry to gather all the food they need to store, just as the little red squirrels are doing in our back woods. They are preparing. They know change is coming and they are scurrying about to make room for the new season. Those little birds although in a scurry are singing loudly. It is as though they are singing, "Have faith, a new season is coming."

I should be singing. We have enjoyed many blessings over the summer months and into the fall. I cannot allow the rain to overshadow the rainbow that glimmers through the clouds. But that in fact is what I do. I focus on the rain, not realizing that with that rain comes new sprouts of life and new growth. I don't think God gave the seasons just for us to look at with wonder, but to really look at with a hope of tomorrow. Just as each season has come into my life I have thought I will never make it through. There is no coat warm enough to keep out the cold and no umbrella strong enough to keep the rain off my head. I tend to sit down and just stay there in the sorrow and fear of today. Do you?

Just as those leaves fall today new life will come once again. New hope. The geese will return and they will have babies to bring a new smile once again. We cannot stop today from happening. Sometimes we are prepared and others, well, they hit us like a cold wind from the north. But we can start each day with a new hope in Christ Jesus.Through each season of change He is always our Forever North. He isn't going to leave us out in the cold or let the winds and rains rush us out to sea. He is our Tower of Strength. He is our Refuge. He is the only One who never changes, but is always with us through change.

We don't have to fear those falling leaves. Stand in under them, pile them up and see the joy before you. Isn't that what children do? They plant a smile on their faces and grab that rake and dive right in. I want that child like faith.

For man, autumn is a time of harvest, of gathering together. For nature, it is a time of sowing, of scattering abroad. ~Edwin Way Teale

Each season has it's meaning and purpose. We never leave one without entering into another. Don't wish too fast for the next season to approach. If you could take a picture of today and sit back glancing into the image what would you see? Amidst those falling leaves is a beauty to be seen.

Philippians 4:6-7 "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

The seeds of spring are planted and through the fall they are spread like lasting, sweet nectar. Each season carries with it blessings even in the mountains of snow that cover the ground. As each one holds a purpose may we not just look onto the next season, but look to today with new eyes able to see new beginnings that would not even be here if it were not for yesterday's change.

THE GRACE OF GOD by ANDY STANLEY

Ever think about grace? God's grace is for everyone. All we must do is accept it. There are many books out there on grace, but this is one of the best I have read. Andy takes each chapter and brings stories we have read in the bible and brings to light the grace we may have missed in each one. It was an "aha" moment for me when he shared the story of the prodigal son. This story was about two sons. The third story was God's and the grace He had given both sons. We fight grace because we can't believe it is free and it is for everyone. If you are struggling with grace and understanding why Jesus would want to give you grace this book is for you. It would be a great blessing to a new Christian and one just learning about the love of God. What better place than to begin with grace. We go from the Old Testament to the New Testament and we learn stories from Andy's life that show us the picture of grace. Grace is real and it is for you and I. All we must do is accept it.

From pages 216-217

"In His story, He loves you no matter what you have done.

In His story, He doesn't love you because of what you've done.

In His story, He could not love you more and He will never love you less.

It's a better story.

It's a true story.

It's a story of grace.

The grace of God!"

About the book:

None of us deserve what God offers, a life free from sin and hope for a glorious future, but unbelievably it's ours for the taking. Why? Because of God's grace. The unmerited favor, the lavish love and kindness he pours out on us, and has, since Creation.

But if it's so available then why do we live a grace-less life? Why are our churches filled with disillusioned Christians, weary of religion's demands, struggling with personal defeat because of issues or behaviors?

Join pastor Andy Stanley as he traces grace through the Old and New Testament, observing God's grace at work in the lives of some of the best, and worst, characters. He also uses personal stories from his own life to reveal how grace is not a natural response but is the most essential one. Together these stories unravel the mystery of grace and tell of its transforming power to set us free.

This book was a gift from Thomas Nelson for it's review.

DON'T LOOK BACK (Women of Jusice series book 2) by LYNETTE EASON

WOW! WOW! WOW! I was blessed to read book 1, "Too Close To Home" and thought it was amazing! We never expect book 2 to be as good, but wow my friends, Lynette has hit one out of the park with book 2 "Don't Look Back!" This story takes off from the first book with Jamie Cash. Jamie is a forensic anthropologist. She has a deep passion for solving crimes and treats those before her with a depth of compassion that can only come from a heart that has been painfully hurt also. Her life has been horrific. She has been through things unimaginable at the hands of her, "Hero" or so he likes to be called. This sicko is still out there haunting and taunting her with murders of other girls he has in his sights. Thriller/suspense/romance this book has it all and more, yes more! It has faith! I could not put this book down once I picked it up. I let everything else go to finish this book. Once you pick it up it is impossible not to keep turning pages. So, get ready for a ride my friends! Again we see Samantha, Jamie's protective sister. We have Connor, who is Samantha's husband and Dakota, who has a heart for Jamie. They are all on the case to find this killer when just too many coincidences are happening around one murdered girl. There are connections and they are determined to end this case. To them it is more than a case, but bringing peace and comfort to life again. Jamie is learning to trust again and Dakota is learning to let others into his past that also carries much hurt. This is one to pass on to your friends. I cannot wait for the next book of Lynette Eason. She is in that ball park with Dee Henderson and is quickly becoming a favorite for me!!

This book was a gift from Revell for it's review.

Lynette Eason is the author of Too Close to Home and three other romantic suspense novels. She is a member of American Fiction Christian Writers and Romance Writers of America. A homeschooling mother of two, she has a master's degree in education from Converse College. She lives in South Carolina.

Where did all this fuzz come from?

Do you know what I have been doing for the last hour? Picking fuzz off my sweaters. Now there is something exciting to do on a Saturday! I am doing laundry and decided, "Well, I will wash these two sweaters together." What was I thinking? One is red and the other is a blue. Yes, they are colors, but they still do not wash well together. I take them out of the dryer and I am ready to cry. I think I have ruined them. How am I ever going to get them back to their original look? I know what I was thinking. I was thinking I could save on time. I was thinking just this one wash together won't mess them up. Oh, I did think about it, but decided they would be okay. So now I have been at the kitchen table picking blue off red and red off blue.

The same thing happens if we wash a wool sweater. Oops, we take it out of the dryer only now to have one that will fit the cat! It shrinks. It takes on a whole new look. It just doesn't fit anymore. We stand back and look upon it wondering how that change happened so quickly. Just one wash. One dry. Now how many of us have done that mistake before?

Somethings even though they appear to be alike just do not mix well. We know the directions. We know they should be separate. We know they should have tender care, but we ignore the instructions and think everything will be just fine. And it is until we take a look and we have now have lots of little fuzz balls hanging on in places they were not meant to be. We don't even want to wear that sweater again. So we put it up or throw it away instead of trying to repair it, but why didn't we just take our time and care for it right in the first place?

Isn't our life with the world like this? We know the Lord's commandments. We know He has set before us standards to follow. He knows what mixes well and what doesn't. When we forget to read the instructions, His instructions, what happens? We become just like these sweaters of mine. They have things attached to them that make them look different and also feel different now. This world changes us in ways we do not realize until we take a good look and see all that has attached itself to us. Before we know it little by little, pieces of this world become attached and we spend days, months and years trying to remove what has tattered us and changed our look.

The amazing thing is, Jesus doesn't want us to throw our sweater away. He wants to repair it. Sure it might still have little places where you can see where He picked off things that didn't belong, but that now only gives us a reminder that He was there. We could even say it adds character to our sweater. He wants to spend time removing each ball of fuzz and making us fresh and something everyone would love to wear. It's amazing what God can do with what we are wearing!!

Colossians 3:8-11 "But now you yourselves are to put off the all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, where there is neither barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all."

When we carry all these traits with us that makes one ugly sweater doesn't it? But God can remove those traits and fill us with His Spirit and we can walk in a new way.

Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law." 

Now when we begin to allow the Lord to shine through us we are like a warm, soft sweater that everyone wants to touch. It's like a blanket of love to wrap up in. Which would you rather wear? The one that is covered in fuzz balls or the one that is smooth and soft? If I don't watch myself I am that sweater covered in balls of stuff that I am left trying to pick off. Yuck!

Give me a pen and paper and I am off in a dream

Okay, I am sitting here this morning in my jammies. My hair is all over the place. The radio is shouting praises for our Lord and Savior. The breeze is blowing the curtains loosely. The candles are giving my senses a taste of autumn and I have a list of chores to keep me busy all day.The washer is going and I am on my way, but, do you know what I want to do on my Saturday? You got it, I just want to sit here and write. There is so much to say and so much to share. I have so many thoughts going through my mind. I hear a song and think of a sentence. I read my bible and want to share that "aha" moment. I glance out the window at the woods and all I can think about is God's amazing beauty.

So, am I a writer? You know, I want to be. I dream of that book. I have BIG dreams. But for me, I have only been writing for almost two years now. I have so much to learn yet! I am learning everyday. This is a journey for me. The more I write, the more I learn about myself and all of my imperfections. I know I must learn about editing, spelling, word placement and all that stuff writers do on a daily basis. I know my sentences are off. My words are all misplaced. My thoughts are scattered all over, but you know? That is my life right now! I am being as real as I can be. I simply share my heart with you. You are walking this journey with me.

I have to admit I am lonely at times. No one except my "writer friends" understand this passion I have. No seems to think I work hard or do much of anything. I am that girl who stays at home. But can I tell you, I work all day at something. It might be writing. It might be reading for a review. It might be cleaning my toilets or taking care of my mother. There is always something that has my heart moving.

I listen to the radio play as I write and tears fall at the words I hear. They are rich to my soul and as I hear God's word I know I am right where I am to be. Friends? I must be honest and say most people don't ask me, "So, how is that writing coming along?" But, that is a trap I fall in. I don't need to wonder if others are reading, or if others even notice the hard work I do. I am not here for others, but to serve my God in the gifts He has given me. Sometimes I think He is speaking to me through my writing more than anyone else. Maybe that is just it. Maybe through being still with my hair crazy all over the place is where He can touch my heart. Maybe sitting at this computer is my spot where God calls me, but it's where He teaches me daily more about Him.

I don't want to do anything outside of serving Him. Would I love to write articles for a magazine? You betcha. Would I love to earn money writing? Um, of course! But that hasn't happened. Everyone would love to see their work noticed and you know, it is. God sees. He hears and knows the passion inside me. He placed it there! He knows the steps I must take. He knows the journey and is walking it with me.

I just simply write what I know. I write the struggles I face daily. I write about my dreams and the journey I have been on. I write about loss and blessings. But all in all I write about the Lord. He is all that matters. If I couldn't write about Him I wouldn't want to write at all.

On the side of my blog you see all the blogs I read. I read these blogs daily. They are not just on my blog for me, but to share with you. These ladies who post these blogs are filled with wisdom, humbleness and have been an inspiration to me. I love just coming and sitting down everyday and seeing what God is doing in the lives of others. I love when people just simply share their heart with one another. This morning I went to my friend Jennifer Slattery's blog. You can see it at the side of my page. I encourage you to go there. I encourage you to check all of them out. But as I was at Jen's this morning that is where the Lord spoke to my heart. I want to give up at times. I let my doubts overcome me, but I know that is Satan trying his best to distract me away from the Lord and all He is doing in me. Satan doesn't want to see those dreams soar. He wants to kill them. But I have news for ya Satan, you might as well go on and leave me be, because I am not quitting!!

My friend, God has instilled in your gifts to use for His glory. He has given you passion and a reason for living. Don't give up on your dreams. Those dreams are there to guide you in your journey. I love being on a journey with Him. I can trust Him no matter if I can see up ahead or not. He isn't going to lead me off a cliff. Open your eyes and heart to all God has for you today. With Him leading, we are only going to soar!! It might be slow in coming, but I have learned in that slowness is where He is teaching me for tomorrow!

REALLY WOOLLY BIBLE STORIES by BONNIE RICKNER JENSON illustrated by JULIE SAWYER PHILLIPS

Just in time for my first granddaughter! Beginning with Creation, Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, David and Goliath, Daniel, Jonah, Jesus is Born, Jesus Welcomes the Children, Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand, The Good Samaritan, Jesus Walks on Water, The Cross and the Tomb, The Great Commission, and ending with A Prayer for You. Beautifully written and illustrated. Wonderful stores to share with your little ones and to give as the perfect gift. A creative way to begin bringing the stories of the Bible into a child's heart. Each story has scripture to guide a little one to finding their way through the Bible. This book has thick binding and a soft outer cover just perfect for little hands. So happy to share this book with my little granddaughter and see her eyes light up as the stories unfold before her. This is a book your child would love and one you will enjoy reading to them.

This book was a gift from Thomas Nelson for it's review.

LETS CHAT FRIDAY with Lisa Wingate

Welcome Lisa Wingate to the Nest. A few months ago I was excited to receive her book, "Beyond Summer" in the mail. As I picked it up and began reading I knew within those first few pages that Lisa was talented. She brought the characters to life and left me with a huge smile. A nugget of wisdom showing me I could make it through anything with the Lord on my side. At times we just get so caught up in what is around us we forget to look up to the God who has everything in His hands and in perfect timing. I am so blessed to interview the most wonderful ladies on earth. They all share a common ground and that is building their lives upon their faith. As I read over again today our interview tears flowed as I read Lisa's words. They were just what I needed to hear today. Don't you just love it when the Lord does that? It's like a kiss from heaven. Sit back and enjoy my friends. I love Fridays!!

(Robin) Lisa, tell me a little about yourself

(Lisa) I’m a wife, mom, Sunday School teacher to high school seniors, and small-town girl. I’ve loved to write for as long as I can remember. My older brother was a good writer, and when you’re the youngest in the family, you want to do what the older kids do. When he won a school award for his poetry, I immediately went to my bedroom and created my first book, The Story of a Dog Named Frisky. The Frisky story was the start of many partially-completed writing projects.

A special first grade teacher, Mrs. Krackhardt, put the idea if being a writer into my head, when she told me I would be a writer one day. Growing up, I often wrote in response to things I felt were wrong in the world. I wanted to create something that would cause people to stop and think, to treat each other and the world around them with greater kindness and grace. Those desires eventually led me to write my first mainstream novel, Tending Roses, which was published in 2001.

(Robin) Since you have walked with the Lord has there been a time you struggled in your faith? If so, would you please share?

(Lisa) Although I have never really lost my faith, I did go through a religious coming of age. During my early teens, my family stopped going to church. I attended youth group and church camp with friends, but it was difficult, not having a basis of faith at home. A few years later, after my first son was born and we had moved to a small, close knit community, a wonderful church invited us, we joined, and never looked back. Church family and activities are a central part of my life and the basis of my writing. Writers can't help but write what they live, and for me faith is the underlay of everything in life.

(Robin) Has there been an "aha" moment in your life that has changed your perspective?
(Lisa) After the birth of my first son, my grandmother visited me. She told me the stories that I later included in my first mainstream novel, Tending Roses. I had an epiphany and realized that life is not a just trip from here to there, a trip from what you have to what you want, but a journey with some of the best things in the middle. By worrying about keeping up with all the "Jones" my age, I was missing the joy of new motherhood. I feel so blessed to have learned my grandmother's lessons and to hear from readers about what those stories have meant in their lives.

(Robin) Do you have a favorite bible story, verse, song or hymn that gives encouragement when struggles come?

(Lisa) This verse reminds me that the gifts we have are given by God, and as long as we're using them, we can just trust God to produce results in His time:

Each of you has been blessed with one of God’s many wonderful gifts to be used in the service of others. So use your gift well. -- 1 Peter 4:10

(Robin) What is one thing you look for in a close friend and what is one quality you hope others see in you?

(Lisa) Friends who’ve walked along the path beside you through life’s joys and challenges are valuable beyond measure. As time passes, each friend becomes more dear to me because we have shared more. One of the qualities I look for in a friend is, quite simply, reliability. I try to show up for people when I promise I will, and I hope for the same in friends. If I tell someone I'll do something, barring natural disasters or the stomach flu, I'll come through. Years ago, a Sunday school teacher asked my younger son to answer questions on a homemade Mother's Day greeting card. On the question "One thing I like about my mom is..." my son had written, "You always keep your promises." That was the best compliment I could have received!

(Robin) What are a few of your favorite books you have in your collection you would share with a friend?

(Lisa) In terms of classics, I love anything by Twain, because the writing is real and timeless. Reading Twain makes you realize that, when you take away the modern trappings, people really haven’t changed all that much. There’s a little Huckleberry Finn in all of us. I enjoy the writings of Will Rogers for the same reason. Rogers’ humor is dead-on today, just as it was when he penned it. I’ve loved sharing C.S. Lewis with my sons as they’ve grown up, as well. Gift From the Sea is another tiny, but favorite classic.

In terms of modern writers, I enjoy reading anything by Debbie Macomber. Luanne Rice, Adriana Trigiani, and others. I loved Nicholas Sparks' The Notebook, because it encompassed so many of the feelings I had while dealing with Alzheimer’s disease in my own family. I enjoy any story that explores life in a positive way and ends with the belief that all things are possible. Right now, I'm reading Jenny B. Jones's newest. What a sweet book!

(Robin) When life seems to go crazy, what is one thing you do to bring comfort and peace?

(Lisa) When life gets crazy, I head for the woods. Living in the country, we have beautiful spaces for walking and enjoying whatever the current season has to offer. There's something healing about just sitting and listening to the birds calling and a stream trickling by. In my quiet places--or sometimes not so quiet, when a gaggle of kids are sharing an afternoon at the old swimming hole--I can reconnect with the things that matter most.

(Robin) What is one thing about yourself you admire?

(Lisa) Wow! I dunno ;o) I'm proud of my children, and I've worked hard to be a good mom and a Godly example for them. I'm proud of the stories I've written, and the fact that readers say those stories encourage them to try to make the world a better place. I hope that's a legacy I leave with the people I meet, either through the pages of a book or in person. I really do want do be a force of encouragement in the lives of the people I meet.

(Robin) What are a few of the things you love surrounding you?

(Lisa) Being a country girl, I love all things natural--the sunset, the birds, the kids playing in the field, the horses in the pasture. Being a mom of boys, I've spent many happy afternoons in the yard, helping build sandpile cities, or aiding in the capture of crickets to feed pet lizards. I'm happiest outside and with my family--unless it's midsummer in Texas, in which it's over a hundred degrees, and no one is happy outside!

(Robin) What are your deepest passions?

(Lisa) We are all here on earth, I believe, to be good to each other. I want to feel that I am making a contribution to a better world. Being a good wife, mother, daughter, is all part of that. Being a writer who inspires and reflects life's ups and downs, issues and success, and causes readers to grow is part of that.

(Robin) What is the best advice ever given to you?

(Lisa) My grandmother's gentle stories of her past joys and regrets were her way of giving advice when I was conflicted over career or mothering choices. She told me to "Be patient, everything doesn't have to work itself out today." That bit of advice struck my soul and was an 'aha' and has been a guiding light through the busy years of motherhood.

(Robin) In the legacy you leave, what is one thing you hope out shines before all others?

(Lisa) Far and away, my greatest achievement is raising two great boys. Having grown up with brothers, I always envisioned that I’d someday be the mother of lacy little pink bundles who didn’t play with bugs, and smell like fish, and leave sweaty football clothes in the corner behind the toilet. In the last twenty years of motherhood, I have learned, however, that boys are wonderful when they’re your own. My sons remind me to appreciate life’s little wonders each day. I think I’ve been given exactly what I need. I want them to have an appreciate for faith and family that will sustain them and enable them to pass good values on to their future families also.

(Robin) What are you currently working on?

(Lisa) Today I'm sending off the manuscript for my February, 2011 book, Larkspur Cove. This new series in set in a lakeside community in central Texas. With a mystery and a little romance, they convey a sense of community where people know and care about each other and get involved when there are concerns.

The preliminary manuscript for me July 2011 book from NAL Penguin/Putnam, Dandelion Summer, just came back from the editor, so I'll soon be taking a second pass at that book. I'm so excited about the combination of elements in that story, and am really looking forward to spending more time in that story universe!

Another "first" for me this year is running a big contest. I'm doing a giveaway for an amazing author/reader event, Kathy Patrick's Pulpwood Queens Girlfriend Weekend, in Jefferson, TX in January 2011. My publishers and I are giving away registrations for the winner and a friend, lodging at the famout Delta Street Inn and a queen's basket. Interested parties can go to my website to enter www.lisawingate.com  It's been quite a challenge to get all the details together, but entries are pouring in and it will be so fun!


(Robin) How do you define success?
(Lisa) Readers sometimes write and tell me that my books and the characters were a blessing, but the truth is that, through the books, I’ve been blessed in a thousand different ways. So many people have shared their own life experiences and their experiences with the books. When I hear from readers, it’s one of those full-circle moments—the fulfillment of a dream that began when an amazing first-grade teacher told me I’d be a writer someday. If there’s one thing I take away from being an author, it’s that sense of wonder at being able to do something I think I was meant to do all along. That's success, I think. Success is in finding a way to use your gifts and talents to uplift and encourage others, and to leave the world, and other people, better off than you found them.

Lisa, I am so glad your brother began writing! What a gift the Lord has given you. What a gift He has given us that we might know Him better. You are just lovely and a wonderful guest. Thank you for sharing your heart and letting us peek into your life. We can clearly see the Lord shining brightly.

Again, I always grab hold of a nugget to carry away and today it is your grandmother's words of wisdom,  "Be patient, everything doesn't have to work itself out today."  How very true and how easily we forget. Blessings to you Lisa. I pray continued success through your life in reaching others for Christ Jesus.

If you would like to see all Lisa is doing just click on the link and it will take you to her website:

www.lisawingate.com

The soldier, the athlete and the farmer

2 Timothy 2:1-7 "You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops. Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things."

So what does a soldier, an athlete and a farmer have in common? Endurance. They must obtain endurance for the long battle, the strenuous run and the patience to reap of the harvest. As a soldier we cannot get all caught up in worry and drama around us. We must be focused and train ourselves to listen to the Commander. It's when we lose perspective that we find ourselves in danger. Each battle that comes is a new one, a different one. We must be willing to be obedient, listening to the every word of the One leading us through each battle.

The athlete runs the race with perseverance. His strides are taken carefully, thinking about each step.  Each breath is measured. He doesn't want to trip over something that if only he had been watching he could have avoided the fall. He prepares. He doesn't start off with the longest race, he begins with those shorter and as each race becomes harder he trains that much more so he can cross that finish line knowing he ran with self control.

The farmer works from sun up to sun down. He plows the field, he plants the seed and he prays for growth. He spends a long time waiting and watching, but through the growth of his fields, he too is growing. A farmer cannot be lazy. He knows the work before him and even though he knows each day will bring a sweat, he knows each drop is worth it in the end.

Here in these verses we have Paul speaking to Timothy. He is sharing his wisdom from his walk with this young man. A young man that has watched Paul and has learned from his life. Someone is always watching us. Paul went through battle after battle, but he did so with a new found faith that carried him through and brought glory and honor to the God who changed him. One that Timothy has watched and now will take that step of faith and show others. We can learn valuable lessons from those around us. We connect with those who have walked in our shoes and know our pain. My friends the Lord knows our pain. He sees our struggles and battles to walk in faith when all around us is falling apart.

A few weeks ago as I was teaching in my Awana class filled with youth I turned to show them a few women who touched my life in a special way that are now in the arms of heaven. Ms. Venida Powers, Ms. Maxine Hoffman and Ms. Virgina Burt. These ladies were all special. Ms. Venida was that woman who would take you in her arms and hold you while you cried. She gave me wisdom when I was lacking and love when I needed it so much. Ms. Maxine was the servant. She served in every way she could. And Ms. Virgina made the best candy I have ever tasted in my life. She was to teach me her recipe when she came home from the hospital, but that was never to be. I mentioned these ladies to my class to give an example of ladies who walked in great faith. I can speak that about them more than anything else. These three ladies all went through hard times, but through each one they stayed firm in their faith. They were the examples to me and others that watched them walk just as Paul was to Timothy.

When I woke this morning it was just one of those mornings where tears fell. Some days are just harder than others and you begin to wonder when it all is going be okay again. You begin to question if you can do this or not. You cry out to God, but you wonder if He is listening. And you begin to question your faith. You either have it or you don't. Plain and simple. If I have faith why am I allowing my fears to overtake me? If I have faith why am letting the unknown of tomorrow grasp all of my attention? We let our hurts bring us down and we let anger consume us before we know it we are bitter inside.

My friend I don't know what is on your heart today, but mine is stirred with all sorts of emotions. The fear of my husband not working is taking its toll. The past two years have carried much stress, but also blessings. The Lord has allowed me to see my daughter marry and be there when little Peyton came into this world. I have watched my son graduate high school and my mother overcome a battle after battle of illness. If I focus just on my battles I will forget to smile at all the blessings around me. Each day even in the battle the sun is shining somewhere. This road is not easy. We cannot allow the hard to overshadow the wonder of life. As each trial has come into our lives it has taught me to lean on the Lord that much more. I simply cannot do it without Him. I don't know how this world faces all around us without a faith in Christ. There are many needs across our land. We have hurting people crying out for help. Even when we are in the darkest battles we have ever faced we can be a light to those around us just by being real. Just by showing our faith. God knows we are going to struggle, but we can face those struggles with One greater than any mountain we will ever climb. We must believe and have hope.

Being still is not easy, but in that quietness of the night God will reach out and comfort. Our battles are faced and won. The races have begun and we are rounding the bend. Our crops are out and we are awaiting a harvest. Our circumstances might not be too quick to change, but through them we can change. We don't have to be defined by our circumstances, but we can bring definition through them. It can be our witness and testimony of faith. Walk today with determination and your head held high. We can be as the farmer, the athlete and the soldier. We can look to them for examples of great faith. We can look to our Lord and Savior for strength in our faith.

Romans 5:3-5 "And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us."

THE WAITING by SUZANNE WOODS FISHER

When you pick up this book you will be taken back in time during the Vietnam War. You will see hate brew just in ones skin color and you will be in full view of how one treats another without respect just because they are different. In this Amish novel we find grace in loss and joy in starting new. The characters in this book will stir your heart and leave you feeling as though you too are part of the family. As seasons change we too change through all that touches us. When we wait we find God in those places we never expected Him to be. I was blessed to read book 1 "The Choice" where it opened my heart to a whole new world. Suzanne doesn't just bring a story and characters to us. She brings life to the pages before us. She stirs our heart and makes us ponder upon valuable lessons. I cannot tell you enough how much I loved this book. "The Waiting" was worth waiting for!

Jorie King has been in love with Ben Zook her whole life. She has been waiting for his return, but sadly the war takes his life. But there is more for Jorie than she ever expected. The Zook family will steal your heart through their journey of trials and blessings. We see them through such sadness, but their faith keeps them alive through it all. In their blessings they are quick to give praise to the God who gives such beauty in our lives. Lancaster County is calling you  my friend. Once you arrive you will not be in a hurry to leave!!

This book was a gift from Revell for it's review.

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the CBA bestselling author of The Choice, The Waiting, Amish Peace, and Amish Proverbs. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, W. D. Benedict, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Benedict eventually became publisher of Christianity Today magazine. Suzanne is the host of a radio show called Amish Wisdom and her work has appeared in many magazines. She lives in California.

I was blessed to do an interview with Suzanne Woods Fisher. Come and follow this link to see all Suzanne had to share with me. I promise you will be blessed!!

http://robinsnest66.blogspot.com/2010/09/lets-chat-friday-with-suzanne-woods.html

Faithful friendships help make this journey sweeter

I have spent my morning reading Daniel. What a book of faith, courage and strength. But there are a few other things I gather from this reading. Friendship and humility. Daniel had all. His friends were blessed to have him and in turn his friends were blessed indeed to have him. I love reading through the book of Daniel. I love it when each time I read God shows me something totally different and blesses me in a special way.

Here Daniel and his three friends were being held captive. They didn't give in and they didn't give up anything. Not themselves nor their faith. They walked in faith together. What a tremendous blessing it is to walk with friends of faith. To talk with my friends about faith, our struggles and what a great God we have is awesome. We all have our ups and downs. Your friends stay there with you through the good, the bad and ugly.

Proverbs 13:20 "Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble." Daniel walked with wise friends. They could count on one another. They lifted each other and counseled one another. The opinion they offered was of great value.

Micah 6:8 "No, O people, the Lord had told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." Daniel and his friends were humble. They walked with God and knew of His mercies. They did what was right in the eyes of God not of man. They did so together. These are the kind of friendships we should all seek to have. These friendships should be cherished. Each of these young men were a light, but together, all four of them? The light was even brighter and shown throughout the land.

Daniel 1:8-9 "But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. Now God had given the chief of staff both respect respect and affection for Daniel." We see Daniel honoring God and in turn God is honoring Daniel. Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah all had their Hebrew names changed. These names were giving God glory. The King had them changed to now give his gods glory, but through these four young men the kings gods never gained glory. They never gave into these gods nor did they give into man. As they were among all the other people surrounding them they never let go of their faith in God, the King of kings. They stayed true to who they were even when their names were changed.

What do we do when we are around others who do not share our faith? Do we just fit in the best way we can? Does our speech and actions changed to fit theirs or do we stand firm and grounded in our belief of Christ? Just through our actions and speech we can either bring others closer to Christ or further away. Other saw something different and unique in these four young men. As we stand, what do other see in us?

Daniel remained in the courts and in royal service, but he never gave in to the demands of others to change. He endured much. Through his endurance we can see great faith and see the example we too can follow. In our schools, our work places and yes, even our families, we are surrounded by those who think differently and even persecute us for our belief in Christ. We must make a choice just as Daniel did and live for Christ or our flesh. Daniel chose God every time.

Daniel 2:17-20 "Then Daniel went home and told his friends Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah what had happened. He urged them to ask the God of heaven to show them his mercy by telling them the secret, so they would not be executed along with the other wise men of Babylon. That night the secret was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven. He said, 'Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he has all wisdom and power.'" Wow, here we see Daniel going to his friends and asking for prayer! Can you see these four young men gathering to pray? What a beautiful sight to see friends praying over one another, reaching to the heavens with their requests with hearts open wide. God gave His will in answering a yes to this request.

God's answers are always not yes, just as when Danial's friends were thrown in the furnace. But in that no from God to keep them from the furnace, King Nebuchadnezzar worshipped God by seeing their great faith as they walked out of that furnace together. They went in as friends and they came out as friends. Daniel 3:28-28 "Then Nebuchadnezzar said, 'Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! He sent his angel to rescue his servants who trusted in him. They defied the king's command and were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own God.'" This king now had great respect for these young men. Just by being themselves they were showing others how to walk with God.

After Daniel had been brought to the king he was asked the meaning to King Belshazzar's dream. The king wanted to give Daniel gifts, but Daniel refused his gifts. Daniel tells him in Daniel 5:17 "Daniel answered the king, Keep your gifts or give them to someone else, but I will tell you what the writing means." Daniel knew he did nothing. It was the Lord working through Daniel. Daniel was humble in all his ways and wanted all glory to go to God. It was shortly after this that the king's men were jealous of Daniel. They wanted to get rid of him, but didn't know how. They couldn't find one wrong in Daniel. The only thing they could do was trick the king into making a new rule, a new law that no one could pray to any other god but his. They knew Daniel prayed to God. Even knowing Daniel was facing the lion's den he never gave up his faith. He prayed to God and he faced that lion's den just as his friends before faced the furnace. They did so with faith. They knew God was with them and they too knew each friend was praying for the other.

Our walk should be one of great faith being true to the God of heaven in every way. Our friendships should be of those that lift us up and bring bring us into a great circle of faith together. We can make a difference, but together this walk is even greater when you have blessed friendships to share in the journey.