Tested and Approved

"Greet Apelles, whose fidelity to Christ has stood the test."

Romans 16:10 

The above words are all that are said about Apelles. Nothing more is known of him. It is enough his was the ministry of the unnoticed--obscure, unseen, but approved. 

We wish we could do something great for God like leading, singing, teaching, speaking, and an array of other more choice gifts that we don't possess. I was reminded of this when I read the devotion about Apelles recently in Streams in the Desert 2, by Mrs. Charles E. Cowman. These are some of her words:

"You pine for recognition, for publicity, for some great task which will bring great acclaim! Perhaps there is so much to be done around you of little significance that you shun the responsibility thinking one with less ambition will accomplish the mundane. Many little, unimportant responsibilities can add up to be greater than a few "illustrious" deeds. God is as concerned about the little tasks being approved! So here you are in your little plot by the wayside, little known, and hardly noticed by the world at large; yet "the Lord hath commended you a task" and to that work you must bend your best talent and energy."

I don't believe that most of us "pine for recognition, for publicity, for some great task." But I understand her thoughts. I was reminded of a quote that shares similar sentiments by George MacDonald, Scottish author, poet and Christian minister:

"Few are needed to do the out-of-the-way tasks which startle the world, and one may be most useful just doing common place duties and leaving the issue with God. And when it is all over,  and our feet will run no more, and our hands are helpless, and we have scarcely strength to murmur a last prayer, then we shall see that, instead of needing a larger field, we have left untilled many corners of our single acre, and that none of it is fit for your Master's eye were it not for the softening shadow of the cross."

Always a joy to see bright daffodils fill the land with beauty!

Whatever God has given you to do, only you can do it. He hasn't given your work to anyone else. Mrs. Cowman continues: "A life may be very lovely and yet be insignificant in the world's eyes. A beautiful life is one that fulfills its mission in this world, that is what God made it to do . . . But the smallest life that fills its place well is far lovelier in God's sight then the largest and most splendidly gifted -- yet fails its divine mission."

We all wonder about our work for God and if we are doing enough. If what we do is worth it. If we are fulfilling the mission God has given us. If we are faithful in what we believe God has given us to do, then we are doing just what He wants. Do the best we can in all circumstances and trust our work is pleasing to our God.

The beauty of forsythia are a welcome sight on a sunshiny day!

If our ears are open we can hear "Tested and Approved" and those wonderful words: "Well done, good and faithful servant." Afterall, God is the one who knows our work and rewards what we do.

"Give what you have. It may be better than you think."

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

First signs of color to welcome spring.

By His Grace . . . 

It Really Is!

Have you heard of "National Card and Letter Writing Month?" It really exists! It doesn't get much attention in these days of fast, fast and fast. But it's a worthy cause. One of my favorite subjects!

Please appease me while I promote and reminisce the joy I've experienced writing notes and letters through the years.

National Card and Letter Month is celebrated throughout April. Letter writing has been largely replaced by digital technology with folks sending emails, texts and messages, but for those of us who write letters and enjoy receiving them it is a month to be celebrated!

I've had a number of "pen" friends through the years, and keeping in touch with them through letters and notes is a fun and happy endeavor. It puts such a smile on my face when I see a hand-written note in the mail. You don't just type as fast as you can, with no thought, when you hand write a letter or note. You put yourself into the experience, your thoughts, your dreams, your life. 

Here I am when I got started in note and letter writing. See that ancient

electric typewriter with screen before computers.

The English poet, John Donne, said: "Letters mingle souls." When thinking about notes I like to say, "Notes stir hearts." That's what a note written to me did over 50 years ago. I received a note, and it changed my life.

Notes can move us to tears, spur us to action, provoke us, uplift us, touch us.  As in my case, a note transformed me. Letters and notes are powerful.

After attending a writer's conference, I wrote a note to one of the speakers, Michael Phillips, well-known Christian writer. He had given a book he wrote to each of the participants in his class. I wrote him to thank him for the book and express my feelings on what he wrote.

A month later I received a note from Michael Phillips. He said: "I have a policy that the first letter I receive about any piece of writing I've done, I respond with a personal, handwritten note thanking them. You are the first I've received on this book." He went on to write encouraging words to me that gave me a lift in spirit and inspiration to continue in the direction I was going.

You have to make an effort to sit down and write. Letter writing has been around since the earliest centuries. It is still a wonderful way to communicate. 

When I wrote my book on note writing, my friend, Peggy, drew this little bird for me, carrying a note through the air. I've put it on many envelopes and papers through the years, a special one-of-a-kind delivery to touch the heart of the receiver.

When I spoke about note writing to groups, I'd tell stories of how notes affected people. Here are a few of them:

"My daughter, Melissa, played in the Marshall High School Band. After graduating high school, years later, she read in the newspaper that her high school band director was under fire from a group of parents demanding that the school board dismiss him. (He did nothing wrong.) One day Melissa stopped by Marshall High School to give a word of encouragement to this man. He thanked her and reached into his briefcase and pulled out a letter of encouragement and appreciation Melissa had written to him when she graduated from high school. He had been carrying it in his briefcase for many years. He told her that the letter had helped get him through the problems he was going through."

Professional Carol trying to look professional; in reality, very nervous and uncomfortable!

Another story written for Guideposts magazine in 2001 tells of a woman who's dream it was to be a published writer to uplift others. But that dream was never fulfilled because she never had a chance to write. Life was too busy as a mother to fulfill this dream. The writer continued: "After my mother died, I was going through her belongings and found an 'Acceptance Letter' box. It was heavy and I wondered what my mother kept in it. What I found was indeed 'Acceptance Letters.' There were thank you letters my mother received from people she wrote who were ill; a thank you from a soldier in boot camp who was lonely. My mother encouraged a salesman when he was at his lowest point. And many others. God did fulfill my mother's dream of writing to uplift others. He fulfilled it through notes and letters."

At this conference I was being video recorded.

You can best believe my knees were shaking!

I received a note from a young lady I wrote to in hopes of encouraging her. It said: "I want to thank you for all of the cards and little notes you send. It seems like whenever I need a little encouragement there is a note in the mail. Jesus must know right when I need a little help."

Whoever you choose to write to, friend, family, acquaintances, writing is a form of communication that needs to be revived. Please consider giving a gift of a note or letter to someone this month. You will be richly rewarded just by writing it!

Jerry nicknamed me "NOTE" worthy for God after seeing how many notes I wrote. 

The nicknamed stuck and that's why it's on many of the things I do today.

Note Writing. Letter writing. It really does make a difference. I'm so glad one made a difference in my life!

By His Grace . . .

A Successful Life!

 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him,

who have been called according to His purpose."

Romans 8:28

What a treat! The other day I was going through my memory box of special things. That's always a joy. It refreshes memories of old; helps me see when my life changes through the years and gives me inspiration to continue on.

I came across my ten rules to make my life successful. When I say successful, I mean accomplishing what God has given me to do. I wrote these rules probably 30 years ago. They all still apply today as I live my life for God.

I believe it is good to keep in your mind the work God has given you to do. It helps structure each day, week, month and year, and inspires you to do the service you have been gifted to do.

Some points on my list are . . . spend quiet time with God to prepare my heart for the service He has called me to . . . accept my character being sensitive, deep-feeling and emotional so that I can utilize His gift to encourage . . . lead a disciplined, organized life needing rest and quiet . . . doubt not that God knows my fears . . . and only I can accomplish God's purposes for my life.

Finding these rules now, in my 75th year, I can see how they've worked out through the years. Most of the time I've been successful. Occasionally I've needed guidance. Sometimes I've failed miserably. But I have stuck to my rules for the most part and believe I am doing the work God has given me to do.

This is not a pat on the back for me, for I have certainly failed many times through my life. Yet, these rules give me the direction I need to continue each day serving God. 

God changed my focus a number of times, but always keeping the gifts He gave to me. He just changed the way I used them, discovering new ways of serving. We need to always be open to the opportunities He puts before us.

What about you? Have you ever thought about your purpose(s) in life and what you have to do to be successful? I think it's something all of us should consider as we travel through life. We are put here for God's purpose(s), and knowing what that purpose is for you, and doing it, will make the difference between a good or bad life. 

What do you need to do to be successful in living for God? It will be different for each of us. Think about it if you never have. Write up rules for you to be successful. 

"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'"

Matthew 25:21

All of us want to hear God say, "Well done good and faithful servant." All we do is by the grace of God, the strength through Christ, and the direction through the Holy Spirit. 

Bibleref.com: "Jesus is showing that those who use what He gives to them to increase what is His will, will also be rewarded with greater opportunity and joy when He returns."

I'm finally seeing some of these happy flowers show up around here. 

By His Grace . . .

.

Let's Hear It!

 Easter is God's miracle message of risen hope for every believing heart.

I love Magnolia trees! I had one in my back yard in Maryland. When we moved to PA we planted three Magnolia trees in our yard. I found out real quick that the weather in PA doesn't provide well for the Magnolia tree in April. I always get buds and opening flowers, but the cold returns to quickly and ends the beauty. So thankful to have pictures to enjoy of earlier years.

The wonder of it all. Perfect description of the week of Easter. A time of celebration, joy, hope and thankfulness. The wonder of it all!

The following post was shared in April 2013. I think it's time to read it again!

"When was the last time you heard a good, loud "amen" in church? I can't think of a time when anyone has shouted me down in holy agreement with the Word. We clap at the end of our songs and when someone shares a testimony, but when's the last time you heard someone clap after the reading of the Scripture or during the offering" Michael Catt, The Power of Surrender

A couple of months ago a couple visited are church and we were in for a pleasant surprise. He "amened ... that's right ... preach ..." us through the sermon. Pastor Larry and his wife, Felecia, joined with our fellowship a few weeks ago and my heart has been lifted with his boisterous agreement during the sermon.

At my home church, 30 years ago, there would occasionally be amens, but few of the other churches we've attended added this affirmation during the sermon. Fred Luter, pastor in New Orleans, was invited to a conference at my home church many years ago and WOW did I hear the excitement from the audience. 

Now, once again, a fellow worshipper holds nothing back as he agrees with God's message on Sunday mornings. Last week I even heard a few others verbally affirm words spoken by our pastor. You know, I think our pastor has even found new excitement as he preaches because of voiceful agreement in the congregation!

This is one of the largest and fullest Magnolia trees I have ever see. My friend, Roy, found this a few years ago, and I'm thankful he posted it on his Page.

Might I say there is great power in voicing our agreement in the preached Word! Will this quiet listener rise to the occasion. I don't know, but my heart sure does! The next time Pastor Larry stands up and claps I may just shout Amen!

Do I hear an Amen!

Because He lives, may you enjoy a praise-filled Easter,

a joy-filled spring, and a hope-filled heart!

By His Grace . . .

Rest Easy

A friend put this graphic up on her Facebook page the other day, and I was drawn to it. Quotes have a way of doing that. That's why my journals are filled with quotes from saints of God all around the world that have caused me to stop and ponder.

Blanket of Hope. What a lovely thought. Always being covered by God's gift of Grace helps you through all things. 

Grace is such an inclusive word. God's grace touches every area of our life. No matter what the situation is, concern is, happiness is, the word Grace, God's Grace, transforms your mind bringing you hope.

I wrote these words back in March 2022 for my church's newsletter:

"We’ve all been given the gift of Grace. We have a choice. We can receive it, or we can deny it. The decision is up to us.

"God gives this gift freely because He loves us. Not because we’re entitled to it. Not because we are good. Not because we won it. He freely gives it. We just have to accept it.

"The gift of grace is a deep well. We know the simple definition: “God gives us what we don’t deserve.”  In reality He gives us so much more.  Grace affects everything we do as we live our life for Him.

"We’re saved because of His Grace. We’re justified because of His Grace. We can approach God’s Throne because of Grace.  His Grace is all we need to live a complete life in Christ.

"We are gifted to serve because of His Grace. We can be confident in our calling because He has given us everything we need to serve Him through His Grace."

I like the thought of "Blanket of Hope." 

Sing with me: 

Wonderful Grace of Jesus

"Wonderful grace of Jesus, greater than all my sin;

How shall my tongue describe it, where shall its praise begin?

Taking away my burden, setting my spirit free,

For the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me."

Refrain:

"Wonderful the matchless grace of Jesus, deeper than the mighty rolling sea,

Higher than the mountain, sparkling like a fountain, all sufficient grace for even me;

Broader than the scope of my transgressions, Greater far than all my grief and shame,

Oh magnify the precious Name of Jesus

Praise His Name!"

And a new worship hymn "Grace Flows Down" by Christy Nockels says in the refrain:

"Amazing grace how sweet the sound,

Amazing love, now flowing down,

From hands and feet that were nailed to the tree,

As grace flows down and covers me."

"It covers me,

It covers me,

And covers me."

By His Grace . . .

Busted

Prayer. Your prayer life. Have you grown in your prayer life or bottomed out? Do you pray? How do you pray?

For over 40 years I've lacked in prayer. I pray every day. Short prayers. And I've improved. I finally got a small spiral ruled notebook, and I write down names and concerns. But I don't always pick it up and use it.

Well, I was busted. Royally. Jerry and I visited an older couple, yes, even older than us. We got to talking about prayer. The women pulled out her prayer notebook and show it to me. It was astonishing. I felt small. 

God wants us to pray all the time. He wants us to talk with Him. Cry with Him. Laugh with Him. He wants a relationship with us. 

I was amazed at the pages filled with names and concerns in her prayer notebook "This is a prayer warrior," I knew. "This is somebody who spends a lot of time talking with God. This is a woman who knows He answers prayer.

As I get older, I can see myself spending more time in prayer. The simple fact that one slows down and can't move as they did in younger years provides the opportunity to pray more.

Seeing what this woman does each day made an impression on me. I may be a Christian of over 40 years, and I may be up in age, but I still have a lot to learn.

Because my eyes were opened by a true prayer warrior, I am making some changes to help me become a better person of prayer. I now have a designate time in the afternoon when I will turn to my prayer notebook. I've already started. This one change has made my morning devotion time richer. 

Busted. I'm so glad I was.

"Prayer does not enable us to do a great work for God. Prayer is a greater work for God."

Thomas Chalmers, 1780-1847

It just kind of quiets your heart!

There is a prayer in the book "The Light of His Presence" by Anne Graham Lotz, that caught my attention a few years ago. It's a prayer for our country. Since reading that prayer, I read it every Sunday morning to do my part in praying for our country. I have repeated it below to help you pray for the United States of America, our country, that needs the help only God can give us.

Most Holy God,

"In a world of famine, floods, and fire; a world of disease, death, and the disruption of our everyday activities, I choose to look up from my knees. I see You seated on the throne of glory, in control of all things. All things. I know that You are a God of mercy, grace, faithfulness, and loving-kindness. So I reject fear and its impact on my life, and I place my faith in You. You have said that Your ears are open to the cry of Your people, that Your eyes are upon us, and that Your arms are long enough to reach us and strong enough to hold us. Hold me now. Quiet my racing heart. Breathe Your Spirit of peace into me to calm the fear and turmoil.

"Even as I pray for Your peace, I wonder if the disasters erupting in our nation could be the spark that ignites a spiritual awakening. Are You trying to get our attention. I know that, when it comes to our relationship with You, we desperately need to wake up.

"We have legalized defiance against Your institution of marriage; we celebrate relationships that contradict Your instructions; we exterminate life that You created and that bears Your image--for our own convenience, we have become so secularized we don't even acknowledge that You exist, much less reverence or obey You.

"You have my attention. Therefore, like the prophet Daniel of old, I turn to You in humility and shame as I confess on behalf of America some of the national sins that come to mind . . .

"I confess national addiction to sex. To money. To pleasure. To entertainment. To pornography. To technology. To popularity. To ourselves.

"I confess our foolishness in denying You as the one true, living God, our Creator to whom we are accountable, living as though our lives are a cosmic accident with no eternal significance, purpose, or meaning.

"I confess our greed that has run up trillions of dollars of national debt.

"I confess our arrogance and pride that has led us to think we are sufficient in ourselves.

"I confess to believing that our nation's prosperity comes from our own greatness, while refusing to acknowledge that all blessings come from Your hand.

"I confess that we depend on our military might and our weapons systems to protect us from harm and danger while we deny, defy, and ignore You.

"I confess that we have succumbed to the pressure of pluralism in our desire to be inclusive, honoring other gods as though You are just one of many.

"I confess that we have allowed the material blessings You have given us to deceive us into thinking we don't need You.

I confess that we have valued our foolish pursuit of happiness through wealth and prosperity rather than treasuring our relationship with You. I confess that we have marginalized truth and main-streamed lies.

"I confess that we have become one nation under many gods, divided and polarized, with license to sin and justice that no longer follows the rule of law.

"Holy Spirit of the living God, convict us of the need to turn from our sin and get right with You.

"Lord God, have mercy on us. As we repent of our sin and return to You, return to us. There is no one like You to help the powerless against our mighty enemies, be they visible or invisible. Help us, O Lord our God, for we rely on You.

"I hold You to the promise you gave to King Solomon. You said, "When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land, or send a plague among my people, if my people, who are called by My Name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers."

"I hold You to Your word as I plead with You. Hear my prayer. Forgive our sin. Heal our land. I am standing in the gap for our nation.

"I pray in the name of the One who is our Deliverer. Our beautiful and only Savior. Lord of the nations. Son of God and Son of man. The living, reigning, soon-to-return Lord of lords and King of kings, Jesus Christ.

"In His Name and for His glory, I pray. Amen."

By His Grace . . . 

The Barnyard

 

When I turn the calendar over to March I begin thinking about baby lamb. I visited my first barnyard at 52 years old. A friend from church knew a family that had a sheep farm, and they let me come and take pictures. It was a delightful afternoon!

A city girl visiting a barnyard. Since that time, I've visited two other barnyards and had just as good a time as the first one. Below are some of the pictures I took that day. It still thrills my heart!

Tender times.

Lady in waiting.

The door into fun!

A happy girl!

Ah . . . there must be something good inside there!

Resting on a spring afternoon.

For me, it was an exciting, happy day! A wonderful way to welcome March. You country girls have a lot over this city girl. I've been to two barnyards here in PA. I'm ready to go again!

By His Grace . . .