tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11895109796709106692024-03-13T11:13:15.156-05:00Charm and Grace CottageCharm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.comBlogger276125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-19818456524483656632021-01-29T12:46:00.008-06:002021-02-01T23:14:15.902-06:00How Did We Get Here?<p>I find myself looking at the date and wondering how we got here so fast... <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Lobster Two;"><span style="color: #04b16c;">2021 </span>! </span></span></p><p>It doesn't seem possible. It seemed that 2020 would never end and yet here we are in the new year... and already it seems like it may be longer than the previous year. I started this blog years ago as a haven on the internet of charm, beauty, and the graceful things of life. My ideas of what those things actually are have evolved over the years, but my trust in the Giver of those things has not. When all around us is chaos and confusion, there is still one place to look for true Beauty and that is to the One who IS beauty: Jesus Christ. I think our desire to surround ourselves with beautiful things comes from a DEEP, DEEP longing for the One who makes all things beautiful. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span> <span style="color: #2b00fe;">"He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end." - Ecclesiastes 3:11</span></span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"> It has been a long year of uncertainty, unrest, and unrepentance. Despite the wake up call that Covid should have given to us, the world and its evils continue to spin out of control. We look around at the values we have long held dear -- truth, beauty, goodness, purity, integrity, freedom -- and see that they are slipping away like sand through our fingers. Yet, if we truly know the One who <i>IS</i> beauty, we cannot be shaken because we are securely a part of His kingdom that cannot be shaken.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span><span style="color: #2b00fe;">"</span></span></span></span><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span class="text Heb-12-28" id="en-NASB1995-30241">Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe;</span> <span class="text Heb-12-29" id="en-NASB1995-30242">for our God is a consuming fire.</span>" - Hebrews 12:28</span></span></span><br /></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">No matter if all the ground around me crumbles away, He will continue to be the firm foundation even if just underneath my feet. I have no need to fear...</span></p></div><p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span class="text Ps-49-5" id="en-NASB1995-14654">"Why should I fear in days of adversity,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-5">When the iniquity of my foes surrounds me,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-6" id="en-NASB1995-14655">Even those who trust in their wealth</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-6">And boast in the abundance of their riches?</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-7" id="en-NASB1995-14656">No man can by any means redeem his brother</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-7">Or give to God a ransom for him—</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-8" id="en-NASB1995-14657">For the redemption of his soul is costly,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-8">And he should cease trying forever—</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-9" id="en-NASB1995-14658">That he should live on eternally,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-9">That he should not undergo decay.</span><span class="text Ps-49-10" id="en-NASB1995-14659"> </span></span></span></span></span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span class="text Ps-49-10" id="en-NASB1995-14659">For he sees that even wise men die;</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-10">The stupid and the senseless alike perish</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-10">And leave their wealth to others.</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-11" id="en-NASB1995-14660">Their inner thought is that their houses are forever</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-11"><i>And</i> their dwelling places to all generations;</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-11">They have called their lands after their own names.</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-12" id="en-NASB1995-14661">But man in his pomp will not endure;</span><br /><span class="text Ps-49-12">He is like the beasts that perish."</span></span></span></span></span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span class="text Ps-49-12">Psalm 49:5-12</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<div class="line" style="text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Whatever this world throws at me, my life is in His hands. I pray that you, too, would have this assurance. For all my life, I have lived in one of the richest and most blessed nations in the history of the world. While this is true for those who have lived here, this has not exempted us from the struggles and challenges of life. This world, and specifically this nation, is filled with sin and those who give themselves to sin. I lived as a slave to sin for the first 18 years of my life and because of that inflicted the pain of that sinful, selfish life on others. But, at age 18 I discovered the great love of Jesus, that He had paid the penalty for that sin in order to bring forgiveness into my life and restore His relationship with me. This was the greatest gift of my life. Knowing Him (not just knowing <i>about </i>Him, but really KNOWING HIM) these past 38 years has been the ultimate freedom and joy. He has enabled me to live in ways I could never have lived, to love in ways I never imagined possible, to serve Him in ways that bring me true joy and fulfillment because it is filled with His purposes and not my own selfish desires. </span> I can say with the apostle Paul...</p></div>
<p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span class="text Phil-3-7" id="en-NASB1995-29429">But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ.</span><sup> </sup><span class="text Phil-3-8" id="en-NASB1995-29430">More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ,</span> <span class="text Phil-3-9" id="en-NASB1995-29431">and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from <i>the</i> Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which <i>comes</i> from God on the basis of faith, </span><span class="text Phil-3-10" id="en-NASB1995-29432"> </span></span></span></span></span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span><span><span class="text Phil-3-10" id="en-NASB1995-29432">that I may know Him <br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="color: #800180;"><span><span><span class="text Phil-3-10" id="en-NASB1995-29432">and the power of His resurrection </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span><span><span class="text Phil-3-10" id="en-NASB1995-29432">and the fellowship of His sufferings, </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="color: #990000;"><span><span><span class="text Phil-3-10" id="en-NASB1995-29432">being conformed to His death;</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span><span> <span style="color: #03a56a;"><span class="text Phil-3-11" id="en-NASB1995-29433">in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead."</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Lobster Two;"><span style="color: #03a56a;"><span class="text Phil-3-11" id="en-NASB1995-29433"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Philippians 3:7-11 </span></span><br /></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If this past year has taught us anything, it has taught us that ultimately we are not in control... we cannot control disease, the weather, the government, other nations, even the actions of those around us. If you think you are in control, then you might be delusional. The one guarantee we do have on this earth is that death will come for us, as it comes for all. Whether it comes sooner or later, it will surely come. </span><span style="font-size: small;"> And yet even with this death sentence... if we put our trust in Christ, the One who ultimately holds it all in His powerful hands, whether we live or whether we die we will be with Him forever. The One who knows us best loves us the most, and He provided the payment for our sin (the thing that causes separation from Him) by coming to earth and dying on a cross. He showed us His mighty power through His resurrection, and He freely offers us this power when we put our trust in Him. So, whether we live or die is of no consequence. If I live I am His. If I die I am His. </span></p><p class="line" style="text-align: left;"></p><p class="line" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courgette;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><span><span class="text Phil-1-21">"For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.</span> <span class="text Phil-1-22" id="en-NASB1995-29384">But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose.</span> <span class="text Phil-1-23" id="en-NASB1995-29385">But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better;</span> <span class="text Phil-1-24" id="en-NASB1995-29386">yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.</span> <span class="text Phil-1-25" id="en-NASB1995-29387">Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith,</span> <span class="text Phil-1-26" id="en-NASB1995-29388">so that your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to you again." - Philippians 1:21-26</span></span></span></span></span></span></p><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Lobster Two;"><span><span class="text Phil-1-26" id="en-NASB1995-29388"><br /></span></span></span></span></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGuZ55_Ck5-cLdeKIGETgyXCX75lICMEY0zCNI7R9sMe9p7QnsPY_RK2oVG5cIJmWmJ0YJdzMSchdV0hptcNR2lrEf2DstKjJRc4elqHpBaWgmOYsgxX0YYKg4qa4NX0D7Gz6Yv2n5LHE/s1157/Philippians+1+web.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1157" data-original-width="1000" height="603" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGuZ55_Ck5-cLdeKIGETgyXCX75lICMEY0zCNI7R9sMe9p7QnsPY_RK2oVG5cIJmWmJ0YJdzMSchdV0hptcNR2lrEf2DstKjJRc4elqHpBaWgmOYsgxX0YYKg4qa4NX0D7Gz6Yv2n5LHE/w522-h603/Philippians+1+web.jpg" width="522" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-3627763932416832862020-05-12T19:25:00.000-05:002020-05-13T19:28:56.292-05:00 Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 54 (Tuesday)Encouragement Post #54 (Tuesday) - "Who would've thought that a Lamb could rescue
the souls of men? Oh, You rescue the souls of men."<br />
<br />
1 Peter 1:17-19 "If you address as Father the One who impartially judges
according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time
of your stay on earth; knowing that you were not redeemed with
perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life
inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb
unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ."<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-47444307875163827972020-05-11T22:36:00.000-05:002020-05-12T22:37:50.438-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 53 (Monday)Encouragement Post Day #53 (Monday) - Psalm 79:8-9 "Do not remember
the iniquities of our forefathers against us; Let Your compassion come
quickly to meet us, For we are brought very low. Help us, O God of our
salvation, for the glory of Your name; And deliver us and forgive our
sins for Your name’s sake."<br />
<br />
The Glory of Your Name<br /> by Watermark<br />
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It was in the way You came<br /> As a lowly babe<br /> That Your glory was displayed<br /> And it was in the sacrifice<br /> Of the purest life<br /> It was in Your Father's will obeyed<br />
<br />
[Chorus]<br /> The perfect Lamb that was slain<br /> And there's the glory of Your name<br /> No other one, no other way for me to see<br /> You took my place, You are the way<br /> And there's the glory of Your name<br /> Yes, there's the glory of Your name<br />
<br />
It was in Your victory, risen for the world to see<br /> That all who would believe could enter in<br /> And it is in the passionate price<br /> Now demanding all my life<br /> And beating in the chambers of my heart<br />
[Chorus]<br />
<br />
And there is nothing in this world<br /> That could take the place of You<br /> That could take the place of You my Jesus<br /> And there is nothing in this life<br /> That could take the place of<br /> One life, one love<br /> One power to save us all<br /> One hope, one truth<br /> And one glory in it all<br /> One glory in it all<br />
[Chorus]<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-67934519708045650122020-05-10T22:32:00.000-05:002020-05-12T22:34:08.537-05:00Mother's Day - So Blessed!I am so amazingly blessed to have been cared for, taught, nurtured, encouraged, and loved by this amazing lady for my whole life. I don't really have the words to describe how much her unconditional love has meant to me. I grieve for those who have not had that kind of a mother's love in their life. I am thankful to the Lord every day that He chose to give me a mother like her. And now we are much more than mother and daughter; we are best friends and sisters in the Lord. I love you, Mama!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GF3qPMq5qu87wj64hxroFqealWaNP0dMDZGFhrKHY9os7uuhweKb7ffgDGiW5wjRtdboLJbvFHmzCtlOLNq1UkLwM9T8qjsL5HZH2TF86SAEChMErb2QsGvqOkeGysTMz5SrYidLD_uk/s1600/96250212_2991829124197705_2411809374348509184_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="764" data-original-width="1166" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GF3qPMq5qu87wj64hxroFqealWaNP0dMDZGFhrKHY9os7uuhweKb7ffgDGiW5wjRtdboLJbvFHmzCtlOLNq1UkLwM9T8qjsL5HZH2TF86SAEChMErb2QsGvqOkeGysTMz5SrYidLD_uk/s400/96250212_2991829124197705_2411809374348509184_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granmama and Mama</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQ_MbjHp1RCzvATGUw6PESyjZp-3YOFhsMFuktCV3I0QWiikhY_8cFUkuRgMyZ9rb6pE28_8NoHi4KvJyRR57f7bvbvIoNNeMMZmX9xCPBFmhgFlpmJBWfav9Jwb5BhIbFkUWdyNr2WIG/s1600/96361204_2991828980864386_6050515017663512576_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="495" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQ_MbjHp1RCzvATGUw6PESyjZp-3YOFhsMFuktCV3I0QWiikhY_8cFUkuRgMyZ9rb6pE28_8NoHi4KvJyRR57f7bvbvIoNNeMMZmX9xCPBFmhgFlpmJBWfav9Jwb5BhIbFkUWdyNr2WIG/s400/96361204_2991828980864386_6050515017663512576_n.jpg" width="395" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aunt Janet, Granmama, and Mama</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKxHn4e8KOY0cgGUzFnPSiindGmJJtA5eerEhfXGZZZl0E0o65Gk2fPFJwfpJUmcJHwI3hNakLhfEbWg7WOfYwUNIv9Dz4VJrOemAjVgM3d6Ef8bparw1umLH3e-ZR6PLSpvfD0fXu3un/s1600/MotherBride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1275" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKxHn4e8KOY0cgGUzFnPSiindGmJJtA5eerEhfXGZZZl0E0o65Gk2fPFJwfpJUmcJHwI3hNakLhfEbWg7WOfYwUNIv9Dz4VJrOemAjVgM3d6Ef8bparw1umLH3e-ZR6PLSpvfD0fXu3un/s400/MotherBride.jpg" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama and Me</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36KDuPORw37D6p55s4O8fsoI9dmMo2d6Rrvwv_oeM8xiOHQyoCQBegkOqAURB_AtWeXmV065pco4Esm2Qk2m0i8LxtCET5MKRrgtykIzJx5VZsRr2_Ojv6D1m5hPdCsbMVEy9UWEC5SXa/s1600/3+generations+of+Victoriannes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36KDuPORw37D6p55s4O8fsoI9dmMo2d6Rrvwv_oeM8xiOHQyoCQBegkOqAURB_AtWeXmV065pco4Esm2Qk2m0i8LxtCET5MKRrgtykIzJx5VZsRr2_Ojv6D1m5hPdCsbMVEy9UWEC5SXa/s400/3+generations+of+Victoriannes.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama, Mary Kat, and Me</td></tr>
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-59976129202464479722020-05-09T22:25:00.000-05:002020-05-12T22:27:04.914-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 52 (Saturday)Encouragement Post – Day #52 (Saturday) We know God as our Father, but He also has motherly characteristics. Here is how the prophet Isaiah (49:15-16) describes His love for us, “Can a woman forget her nursing child and have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me.” His care and love for us extend farther than a mother’s for her nursing child. Amazing! And my experience with my own mother includes buckets full of unconditional love. I am truly blessed. Which brings to mind a very mother-like characteristic of our God in this familiar scripture from Lamentations 3:21-23, “This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-16443372205431491072020-05-08T22:23:00.000-05:002020-05-12T22:24:06.935-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 51 (Friday)Encouragement Post – Day #51 (Friday) - I can hardly believe that my
song list now has over 50 songs!! We have heard an awful lot of talk
about freedom lately. And while it has long been a value in our
country, we get it wrong so often. What is real freedom? Is it having
no boundaries at all and being allowed to do whatever you want to… any
whim at any moment? If that were freedom, then the people who go around
killing people would ostensibly be living in freedom. In actua<span class="text_exposed_show">lity,
being subject to the whims of our sinful fleshly desires is utter
bondage. We see that bondage played out on a large scale daily as people
give in to those desire and wreck their own lives or the lives of
others.</span><br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
Jesus knew what
true freedom would mean to us. While here on earth, He lived in total
submission to the Father, while being entirely free to do what He
desired. These two were one and the same. He desired to do the Father’s
will so much that He CHOSE the cross. He was free not to, but He chose
it for us because He KNEW it would set us free. Now, because of the
cross, as we surrender to Him we find out what true freedom really is.
It is abundant life, peace that passes understanding, victory over the
bondage of sin, and joy that is unspeakable.<br />
<br />
“It was for
freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not
be subject again to a yoke of slavery.” – Galatians 5:1<br />
<br />
“For the
word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us
who are being saved it is the power of God.” – 1 Corinthians 1:18<br />
<br />
Update – again thanks SO very much to all who prayed for me. I am
significantly better, with just a little twinge of discomfort here and
there… day 4 of antibiotics and VERY thankful!!<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-62997071047139435742020-05-07T22:20:00.000-05:002020-05-12T22:21:32.571-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 50 (Thursday)Encouragement Post – Day #50 (Thursday) Today is the National Day of
Prayer in our nation. In my lifetime, at least that I can recall, there
has never been a more desperate time in our nation for the need of God’s
hand to move. Amazingly, God has given us a formula for praying for our
nation even in our current situation right in His Word. We are pointed
once again to the verses in 2 Chronicles 7:13-14 “If I shut up the
heavens so that there is no rain, or if I command the l<span class="text_exposed_show">ocust
to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among My people, and My
people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My
face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will
forgive their sin and will heal their land.” As His people, these are
conditions that we must meet for the healing of our land: humility,
prayer, seeking His face, and turning from our wicked ways. </span><br />
<br />
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Jesus echoed this by His example (Philippians 2:5-11), “Have this
attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He
existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to
be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and
being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man,
He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even
death on a cross. For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and
bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name
of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth
and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus
Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”<br />
<br />
Lord, please heal our land.<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-88748149443001349442020-05-06T22:15:00.000-05:002020-05-12T22:17:12.467-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 48 (Wednesday)Encouragement Post #49 - First of all, thank you all for your
prayers! I am definitely better today. I love this Psalm and it has
really been on my mind today for some reason... maybe it's for you.<br />
<br />
Psalm 63 <br /> 1 O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly;<br /> My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You,<span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> In a dry and weary land where there is no water.<br /> 2 Thus I have seen You in the sanctuary,<br /> To see Your power and Your glory.<br /> 3 Because Your lovingkindness is better than life,<br /> My lips will praise You.<br /> 4 So I will bless You as long as I live;<br /> I will lift up my hands in Your name.<br /> 5 My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness,<br /> And my mouth offers praises with joyful lips.</span><br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
6 When I remember You on my bed,<br /> I meditate on You in the night watches,<br /> 7 For You have been my help,<br /> And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.<br /> 8 My soul clings to You;<br /> Your right hand upholds me.<br />
9 But those who seek my life to destroy it,<br /> Will go into the depths of the earth.<br /> 10 They will be delivered over to the power of the sword;<br /> They will be a prey for foxes.<br /> 11 But the king will rejoice in God;<br /> Everyone who swears by Him will glory,<br /> For the mouths of those who speak lies will be stopped.<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-59182916122969346472020-05-05T22:12:00.000-05:002020-05-12T22:13:49.277-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 48 (Tuesday)My soul waits for the Lord... If you were wondering where the encouragement posts went these past few
days, I have been battling a pretty nasty diverticulitis attack with a
tremendous amount of pain and honestly just haven't felt much like
looking at a computer. But God is faithful, whether I feel like it or
not. I am so grateful for His love and His word. I am hoping to feel
better soon, but He SO ministered to my heart through Psalm 130 t<span class="text_exposed_show">his
morning. When I opened my YouVersion Bible app, I discovered it was
today's reading. It was as if He were speaking the words directly to me.
And the marvelous thing about Him and His word is that He can speak to
you just as personally through the same words.</span><br />
<br />
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Psalm 130<br /> 1 Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord.<br /> 2 Lord, hear my voice!<br /> Let Your ears be attentive<br /> To the voice of my supplications.<br /> 3 If You, Lord, should mark iniquities,<br /> O Lord, who could stand?<br /> 4 But there is forgiveness with You,<br /> That You may be feared.<br /> 5 I wait for the Lord, my soul does wait,<br /> And in His word do I hope.<br /> 6 My soul waits for the Lord<br /> More than the watchmen for the morning;<br /> Indeed, more than the watchmen for the morning.<br /> 7 O Israel, hope in the Lord;<br /> For with the Lord there is lovingkindness,<br /> And with Him is abundant redemption.<br /> 8 And He will redeem Israel<br /> From all his iniquities.<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-78475041775648783192020-05-01T21:59:00.000-05:002020-05-12T22:00:38.502-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 47 (Friday)2 Corinthians 4:6 "For God, who said, “Light shall shine out of
darkness,” is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of
the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ."<br />
<br />
Romans
5:1-2 "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God
through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our
introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in
hope of the glory of God."<br />
<br />
Mat<span class="text_exposed_show">thew
11:28-30 "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will
give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle
and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke
is easy and My burden is light."</span><br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<br />
Captivate Us<br /> by Watermark<br />
<br />
Your face is beautiful<br /> And Your eyes are like the stars<br /> Your gentle hands have healing<br /> There inside the scars<br /> Your loving arms they draw me near<br /> And Your smile it brings me peace<br /> Draw me closer oh my Lord<br /> Draw me closer Lord to Thee<br /><br />
Captivate us Lord Jesus set our eyes on You<br /> Devastate us with your presence falling down<br /> And rushing river draw us nearer<br /> Holy fountain consume us with You<br /> Captivate us Lord Jesus with You<br />
<br />
Your voice is powerful<br /> And Your words are radiant bright<br /> In Your breath and shadow<br /> I will come close and abide<br /> You whisper love and life divine<br /> And Your fellowship is free<br /> Draw us closer oh my Lord<br /> Draw me closer Lord to thee<br /><br />
Captivate us Lord Jesus set our eyes on You<br /> Devastate us with Your presence falling down<br /> And rushing river draw us nearer<br /> Holy fountain consume us with You<br /> Captivate us Lord Jesus with You<br />
<br />
And let everything be lost in the shadows<br /> Of the light of your face<br /> And let every chain be broken from me<br /> As I'm bound in Your grace<br /> For Your yoke is easy Your burden is light<br /> You're full of wisdom power and might<br /> And every eye will see You<br /> And captivate us Lord Jesus with You<br /> Captivate us</div>
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="418" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EWXWgbMDedY?list=PLXGZcicnEddKCr4BmIj7f042lsv2kECYu" width="100%"></iframe>Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-45818200207627944472020-04-30T21:53:00.000-05:002020-05-12T21:54:21.211-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 46 (Thursday)I am always just amazed at just HOW alive and active God's word is.
It is never dull, always applicable, and always encourages me... God's
promises are true and "yes" in Christ! If you love the Word, you
probably already know this song by Sara Groves titled (not
coincidentally) "The Word." If you don't know it, well there's no better
time than right now to get acquainted.<br />
<br />
"For as many as are the
promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our
Amen to the glory of God through us." - 2 Corinthians 1:20<br />
<br />
"For
the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged
sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both
joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the
heart." - Hebrews 4:12<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-43632623635068581792020-04-29T22:41:00.000-05:002020-05-12T22:44:15.341-05:00A very special place built by a very special man, my grandfather (dad's dad). This was his oasis from the cares of the world where he could garden, fish, cook, putter, and generally lose himself in the beauty. I spent untold hours here as a young person, and I can still hear him saying "Hey Squeege!" (his affectionate name for me) when he saw me coming around the corner. So thankful for this beautiful place and that is still being enjoyed by his family. It's hard to believe that I did this piece as a gift to my dad for Christmas over 11 years ago...<br />
<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-7066645761488063152020-04-29T21:51:00.000-05:002020-05-12T21:55:15.123-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 45 (Wednesday)Encouragement Post #45 (Wednesday) - Let Your kingdom come...<br />
<br />
Psalm 103:19-22 <br />
"The Lord has established His throne in the heavens,<br />
And His sovereignty rules over all.<br />
Bless the Lord, you His angels,<br />
Mighty in strength, who perform His word,<span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> Obeying the voice of His word!<br /> Bless the Lord, all you His hosts,<br /> You who serve Him, doing His will.<br /> Bless the Lord, all you works of His,<br /> In all places of His dominion;<br /> Bless the Lord, O my soul!"</span><br />
<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-75312858741904463052020-04-28T23:56:00.000-05:002020-05-12T20:37:03.150-05:00My Encouragement Music YouTube ListFor anyone who might be just interested in listening to the songs I am linking here in a list, I have created a YouTube list that is growing longer each day. You can find all the songs here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXGZcicnEddKCr4BmIj7f042lsv2kECYu">https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXGZcicnEddKCr4BmIj7f042lsv2kECYu</a><br />
<br />
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<img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="978" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqyXhIrPR11qUTypL98nAxQ07pFTPUHT5cQCtHOualJq0zKNzf_auTR9aRAMjLPR_24EJ4qGYRojk5pt97ix7yH2avlpuJFvcXCSiAAVTJqF-nDxPRW1yuG1vbBYlSENS6ZuLD7XFJwFqo/s640/YouTubePageImage.png" width="640" /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXGZcicnEddKCr4BmIj7f042lsv2kECYu" target="_blank">YouTube Encouragement</a></div>
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44 songs so far, and counting... Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-8307393026055617532020-04-28T23:47:00.002-05:002020-04-28T23:49:41.458-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 44 (Tuesday)Encouragement Post #44 (Tuesday) - Do you know? I do...<br />
“As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, And at the last He will take His stand on the earth." (Job 19:25) <br />
"Also keep back Your servant from presumptuous sins; let them not rule
over me; then I will be blameless, and I shall be acquitted of great
transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer." (Psalm
19:13-14)<br />
<br />
O Lord, My Rock and My<span class="text_exposed_show"> Redeemer<br /> by Sovereign Grace Music</span><br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
VERSE 1<br />
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer<br />
Greatest treasure of my longing soul<br />
My God, like You there is no other<br />
True delight is found in You alone<br />
Your grace, a well too deep to fathom<br />
Your love exceeds the heavens’ reach<br />
Your truth, a fount of perfect wisdom<br />
My highest good and my unending need<br />
<br />
VERSE 2<br />
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer<br />
Strong defender of my weary heart<br />
My sword to fight the cruel deceiver<br />
And my shield against his hateful darts<br />
My song when enemies surround me<br />
My hope when tides of sorrow rise<br />
My joy when trials are abounding<br />
Your faithfulness, my refuge in the night<br />
<br />
VERSE 3<br />
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer<br />
Gracious Savior of my ruined life<br />
My guilt and cross laid on Your shoulders<br />
In my place You suffered bled and died<br />
You rose, the grave and death are conquered<br />
You broke my bonds of sin and shame<br />
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer<br />
May all my days bring glory to Your Name<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-36315806703271083122020-04-27T23:45:00.000-05:002020-04-28T23:45:52.789-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 43 (Monday)Encouragement Post #43 (Monday) - Let Your kingdom come...<br />
<br />
Matthew 6:9-10<br /> "Our Father in heaven, hallowed by Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."<br />
<br />
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Messiah<br /> by Twila Paris<br />
<br />
For all you are, All you have done<br /> We worship you, Eternal one<br /> Savior and Lord, Forevermore<br /> You are Messiah<br />
<br />
Down on our knees, Bleeding as one<br /> Together we pray, Your kingdom will come<br /> In Heaven and Earth, Your will be done<br /> You are Messiah<br />
<br />
Chorus:<br /> Let your kingdom come (x3)<br /> You are Messiah<br /> Let your kingdom come (x3)<br /> You are Messiah<br />
<br />
Radiant hope, We long for you<br /> Deep in our hearts, Your word is true<br /> Be lifted up, In all we do<br /> You are Messiah<br />
(Chorus)<br />
<br />
For all you are, All you have done<br /> We worship you, Eternal one<br /> You are the Lord, Forevermore<br /> You are Messiah<br />
Let your kingdom come (x7)<br /> You are Messiah<br /> Let your kingdom come (x3)<br /> You are Messiah (x4)<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-42823851278682337312020-04-26T23:42:00.000-05:002020-04-28T23:43:07.084-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 42 (Sunday)Encouragement Post – Day #42 (Sunday) Today began with worshiping our great God with our church family (via Zoom). What a wonderful blessing to see each other’s faces, to sing with one another, and to be fed from God’s word together. We walk together, by faith. We encourage each other, by faith. We trust that our God is working all things together for our good and for His glory, by faith. Without faith, we have no hope because without faith it is impossible to please God. But by faith, we believe that He holds our lives and our ultimate reward of being with Him forever in His all powerful and all loving hands.<br />
<br />
Hebrews 11:6 “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.”
<iframe width="100%" height="425" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5iPIBK3mogQ?list=PLXGZcicnEddI7oRG3H-ia3UeCWI7VPN1P" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-42705505932885448582020-04-25T23:33:00.000-05:002020-04-28T23:34:42.886-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 41 (Saturday)Encouragement Post #41 (Saturday) After a wonderful morning at our
church's Annual Conference, I am looking forward to worship with our
church family tomorrow morning. Our message will be on the holiness of
God. Did you know that Hebrews 12:14 says, "Pursue peace with all
people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord." Holiness
is pretty important to our great God, and we cannot manufacture it on
our own. We have to trust Him to give it to us. Our Holy God want<span class="text_exposed_show">s
to give us His holiness, and He can only do this when we accept the
willing sacrifice of Jesus as payment for our unrighteousness. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
Only a Holy God<br />
by City Alight<br />
<br />
"Who else commands all the hosts of heaven<br />
Who else could make every king bow down<br />
Who else can whisper and darkness trembles<br />
Only a Holy God<br />
<br />
What other beauty demands such praises<br />
What other splendour outshines the sun<br />
What other majesty rules with justice<br />
Only a Holy God<br />
<br />
Come and behold Him<br />
The One and the Only<br />
Cry out, sing holy<br />
Forever a Holy God<br />
Come and worship the Holy God<br />
<br />
What other glory consumes like fire<br />
What other power can raise the dead<br />
What other name remains undefeated<br />
Only a Holy God<br />
<br />
Who else could rescue me from my failing<br />
Who else would offer His only Son<br />
Who else invites me to call Him Father<br />
Only a Holy God<br />
Only my Holy God!"<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-84782220611187806122020-04-24T23:30:00.000-05:002020-04-28T23:31:53.532-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 40 (Friday)Encouragement Post – Day #40 (Friday) Now more than ever, I think it
is increasingly clearer that our worth does not depend on what we own.
Nor does it depend on our own strength. These beautiful lyrics are in
the song I linked below, "Two wonders here that I confess, My worth and
my unworthiness; My value fixed - my ransom paid, At the cross." These
days are teaching me over and over again that my worth is completely in
Him... He is my greatest treasure and the ONLY thing i<span class="text_exposed_show">n
this world that can truly satisfy my soul. Have you considered the
magnitude of these words from Psalm 82, "No good thing does He withhold
from those who walk uprightly"?</span><br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
Psalm 82:1-2, 4-5, 11-12 <br /> “How lovely are Your dwelling places,<br /> O Lord of hosts!<br /> My soul longed and even yearned for the courts of the Lord;<br /> My heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God.<br />
<br />
How blessed are those who dwell in Your house!<br /> They are ever praising You. Selah.<br /> How blessed is the man whose strength is in You,<br /> In whose heart are the highways to Zion!<br />
<br />
For the Lord God is a sun and shield;<br /> The Lord gives grace and glory;<br /> No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.<br /> O Lord of hosts,<br /> How blessed is the man who trusts in You!”<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-52649602775562958562020-04-23T23:27:00.000-05:002020-04-28T23:35:18.964-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 39 (Thursday)Encouragement Post #39 (Thursday) "In the beginning was the Word, and
the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning
with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him
nothing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and
the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the
darkness did not comprehend it." John 1:1-5<br />
<br />
New Every Morning<br /> by Audrey Assad<br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
In the beginning You hovered over the waters: <br /> You broke an unbroken silence: You spoke light into darkness<br /> And there was light<br />
<br />
In the beginning we were made in Your image<br /> We were naked without shame til we fell for the darkness<br /> And there was night<br />
<br />
Your mercies are new<br /> Your mercies are new<br /> New every morning.<br />
<br />
In the beginning there was the Word and he was God<br /> And the Word was with God and He dwelt among us <br /> And there was life<br />
<br />
In the beginning the Lamb of God was broken<br /> And His blood was poured out for the sins of the world <br /> And there was life<br />
<br />
At the cross, at the cross, where I first saw the light<br /> At the cross, at the cross, I received my sight<br /> At the cross, at the cross where you laid down your life<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-54786046780767532952020-04-22T23:24:00.000-05:002020-04-28T23:25:46.931-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 38 (Wednesday)Turn your eyes upon Jesus; look full in His wonderful face…<br />
<br />
Hebrews 12:1-3 “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses
surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin
which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race
that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and
perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross,
despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of
God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against
Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”<br />
<br />
<iframe width="100%" height="319" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/F2tKVqZZiI4?list=RDDmyjFEtqTDc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-75330592365180355672020-04-21T23:15:00.000-05:002020-04-21T23:17:29.045-05:00 Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 37 (Tuesday)Do you love surprises? I thought these Tiffany hybrid tea roses had long
since kicked the bucket. I haven't seen them produce in several years,
and truthfully had let the foliage around them grow up over them because
they weren't getting enough sun. But today I just happened to be
peeking around in the shrubbery, and what to my wondering eyes should
appear... two HUGE pink blossoms on the longest stems, almost over my
head. These beauties were just begging to be brought inside and
enjoyed... God's beautiful creation never disappoints. The lavender
sweet William in the vase is a wonderful accent and smells heavenly
along with the fruity fragrance of the Tiffany roses and the color is perfect with my smaller pink knockout roses!<br />
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Encouragement Post – Day #37 (Tuesday) All creation sings of His majesty… <br />
<br />
Psalm 104:1-3, 10-12, 19, 31-33<br />
“Bless the Lord, O my soul!<br />
O Lord my God, You are very great;<span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> You are clothed with splendor and majesty,<br /> Covering Yourself with light as with a cloak,<br /> Stretching out heaven like a tent curtain. </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">He lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters;<br /> He makes the clouds His chariot;<br /> He walks upon the wings of the wind…</span><br />
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<br />
He sends forth springs in the valleys;<br />
They flow between the mountains;<br />
They give drink to every beast of the field;<br />
The wild donkeys quench their thirst.<br />
Beside them the birds of the heavens dwell;<br />
They lift up their voices among the branches…<br />
<br />
He made the moon for the seasons;<br />
The sun knows the place of its setting…<br />
<br />
Let the glory of the Lord endure forever;<br />
Let the Lord be glad in His works;<br />
He looks at the earth, and it trembles;<br />
He touches the mountains, and they smoke.<br />
I will sing to the Lord as long as I live;<br />
I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.”<br />
<br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-81964983608880647212020-04-20T23:05:00.000-05:002020-04-21T23:06:23.266-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 36 (Monday) Encouragement Post – Day #36 (Monday) Let them say among the nations, "The LORD reigns…"<br />
<br />
1 Chronicles 16:29-34<br /> “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name;<br /> Bring an offering, and come before Him;<span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> Worship the Lord in holy array.<br /> Tremble before Him, all the earth;<br /> Indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved.<br /> Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;<br /> And let them say among the nations, “The Lord reigns.”<br /> Let the sea roar, and all it contains;<br /> Let the field exult, and all that is in it.<br /> Then the trees of the forest will sing for joy before the Lord;<br /> For He is coming to judge the earth.<br /> O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;<br /> For His lovingkindness is everlasting.”</span><br />
<br /><iframe width="100%" height="545" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hkzidNogIoE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-89886410210551309782020-04-19T23:59:00.000-05:002020-04-20T00:05:30.752-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 35 (Sunday) <div class="_5pbx userContent _3576" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-testid="post_message" id="js_th">
Encouragement
Post – Day #35 (Sunday) Another Sunday… the fifth Sunday with our faith
community not meeting in person. It’s still so good to be able to meet
through Zoom and SEE faces, have a few minutes to chat and catch up, and
check in and really see how everyone is doing. And, we heard a
wonderful message of the HOPE of our Savior! There is hope in no one but
Jesus. This isn’t a hope that is like a wish, this is a SURE and
STEADFAST hope. A LIVING hope!<br />
<br />
Hebrews 6:16-20 “For men swear
by one greater than themselves, and with them an oath given as
confirmation is an end of every dispute. In the same way God, desiring
even more to show to the heirs of the promise the unchangeableness of
His purpose, interposed with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things
in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge
would have strong encouragement to take hold of the hope set before us.
This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and
steadfast and one which enters within the veil, where Jesus has entered
as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to
the order of Melchizedek.”<br />
<br />
1 Peter 1:3-5 "Blessed be the God and
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has
caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of
Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is
imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven
for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a
salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."<br />
<br />
Living Hope<br /> By Phil Wickham<br />
<br />
How great the chasm that lay between us<br /> How high the mountain I could not climb<br /> In desperation, I turned to heaven<br /> And spoke Your name into the night<br />
Then through the darkness, Your loving-kindness<br /> Tore through the shadows of my soul<br /> The work is finished, the end is written<br /> Jesus Christ, my living hope<br />
<br />
Who could imagine so great a mercy?<br /> What heart could fathom such boundless grace?<br /> The God of ages stepped down from glory<br /> To wear my sin and bear my shame<br />
The cross has spoken, I am forgiven<br /> The King of kings calls me His own<br /> Beautiful Savior, I'm Yours forever<br /> Jesus Christ, my living hope<br />
<br />
Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free<br /> Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me<br /> You have broken every chain<br /> There's salvation in Your name<br /> Jesus Christ, my living hope<br />
<br />
Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free<br /> Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me<br /> You have broken every chain<br /> There's salvation in Your name<br /> Jesus Christ, my living hope<br />
<br />
Then came the morning that sealed the promise<br /> Your buried body began to breathe<br /> Out of the silence, the Roaring Lion<br /> Declared the grave has no claim on me<br /> Then came the morning that sealed the promise<br /> Your buried body began to breathe<br /> Out of the silence, the Roaring Lion<br /> Declared the grave has no claim on me<br /> Jesus, Yours is the victory, whoa!<br />
<br />
Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free<br /> Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me<br /> You have broken every chain<br /> There's salvation in Your name<br /> Jesus Christ, my living hope<br />
<br />
Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free<br /> Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me<br /> You have broken every chain<br /> There's salvation in Your name<br /> Jesus Christ, my living hope<br />
Jesus Christ, my living hope<br /> Oh God, You are my living hope<br /> <br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1189510979670910669.post-78332470887931738452020-04-18T23:40:00.000-05:002020-04-20T00:03:50.738-05:00Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 34 (Saturday) Encouragement Post – Day #34 (Saturday) Here’s one from way back… I
do love this man’s music. Keith Green is walking in the presence of
Jesus now, but for his brief time on this earth he surely made an
impact. I wanted to post something a little fun and upbeat, yet
truthful to the core… so here you go. So many naysayers down through the
years have tried to discourage God's people from simply obeying what
God has told us to do. But, if we believe and receive, we'll find the c<span class="text_exposed_show">omfort we need… and HE WILL take care of the rest.</span><br />
<br />
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John 1:12-13 “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to
become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were
born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man,
but of God.”<br />
<br />
Ephesians 4:19-20 “And my God will supply all your
needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Now to our God
and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.”<br />
This is from a
live performance he gave – and wow, what energy (and even a little
snarkiness at the beginning)! Makes me tired just watching him.<br /><br />
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Charm and Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04930920593855400694noreply@blogger.com0