Category: Sunday Thoughts

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A Sunday Thought Sunday Thoughts

God’s Normal

God’s Normal

God’s Normal

I will cry unto God most high; unto God that performeth all things for me. Psalm 57:2 NJV

What is God’s normal supposed to look like for all of us?

We probably have a different answer for that and that is great. You see, we all have a different answer because of how we view God and His kingdom.

And that is okay!

My thoughts this past week are quite simple: What does God say normal should be? Should we find God’s normal in each day?

I believe that God’s normal is not just an idea. God’s normal is Jesus. I believe that each and everyday we need to find a piece of heaven.

What I mean, short and to the point, having a Christ centered theology means that Jesus is the lens through which we interpret everything.

God works in the ordinary by doing things that we might not all notice because we are to busy to see it. We learn that in order to see God working in the ordinary, we must seek the small voice of God that makes us aware of how He works.

Our lives can feel dull when we are in the thick of our days– going to work, driving, working around the ranch and taking care of the kids– but that doesn’t mean we cannot still serve God where we are. It also doesn’t mean that we cannot see a piece of heaven everyday.

I know for myself that I tend to get stuck in the dull of everyday life and forget that God is at work in and through us. His normal is not our normal.

Do you see it?

Do you believe it?

I believe that what we believe must always line up with what He taught and the example that he left. I also think that the enemy is doing a fine job of distorting our understand of God and His kingdom by getting us to elevate our experiences and interpretations higher than Jesus. We must understand that when we look at Jesus we are looking at God. We must also understand that finding a little piece of heaven each and everyday will keep our enemy at bay.

Do you see heaven everyday?

What do you think God’s normal is?

If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. John 14:7 NJV

Happy Monday to you!! Have a great week! I

Categories
A Sunday Thought Circle L Sunday Thoughts

A Sunday Thought~ 5 Ways to be a Godly Women

A Sunday Thought~ 5 Ways to be a Godly Women

You can not break a women who seeks her happiness in God.

This week I have been thinking about ways that I can become more Godly and I decided to share all my thoughts.

So how do you become a Godly person?

The Bible actually talks about several characteristics that women should strive to have—and others they should avoid.

God wants us to be: Hard workers.

Proverbs 31:10-31 has some of the best words describing what it means to be a Godly women. God also wants us to seek him first. I won’t post all the verses because I really want you all to look it up and really read these verses. I am going to share with you my favorite verses:

Who can find a virtuous women? For her price is far above rubies.

The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.  

She stretchers out her hand to the poor; yea, she reaches forth her hand to the needy. 

She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.

Being a hard worker can look different for everyone and it is not always the same in different stages of our lives, but I know that somedays I need to work a little harder. It is also important to realize that we need to take time out to rest as well. What I am talking about is making good use of our time while we have it.

God doesn’t want us to be: Too Busy.

For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now they that are such we command and exhort by Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

2 Thessalonians 3:11-12

It is ok to be busy, not a busybody. If we are working hard at the right things, we won’t have time for gossiping and it is also really important that we aren’t too busy for our family and friends.

God wants us to be: Generous.

She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. Proverbs 31;20

I don’t think this necessary means money, I think it really means our time. Time goes by so fast that I think it is hard for us to really give others our undivided time. I also think that staying humble is a way to show generousity.

God doesn’t want us to be: Materialistic.

I think we all have this trait in us. Right? I mean we all can struggle with this. I know that I do. It is a struggle not to compare and want what other people have.

God wants us to be: Kind.

She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

Proverbs 31:26

God wants us to be kind and teach kindness to our kids. I tell my kids to speak kindness to others even when they don’t feel like it. I really want to be known for my kindness and grace. How can we be more kind?

*Smile More *Give Hugs *Send Hand Written Notes*Say Please and Thank You*Give a Secret Gift*Really Listen When Your Friend Has Something to Share*Choose An Attitude of Joy*Watch Someone’s Kids, With Joy*Send a Thank You Note*

God doesn’t want us to be: Mean.

What comes to mind when I think of mean is the “mean girls” stereotype because, for a few women, it hits the nail on the head. We need to speak kindness, not slander.

God want us to be: Wise.

She considerate a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

Proverbs 31:16

My prayer is that I am wise about my everyday decisions and actions. We as individuals control what we say, what we do and how we do it.

God doesn’t want us to be: Foolish.

We are in control of foolish thoughts, actions and words. Really we are. When I think of foolish, I think of those who are not trustworthy and that how I want to be known.

God wants us to be: Modest.

Let it not be that outward adorning of braiding the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on apparel;

But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirt, which is in the sight of God of great price.

1Peter 3:3-4

Being modest is one of the most important aspects. Why? Well to be quite frank, dressing immodestly is like rolling around in bunch of manure. Yes, you will get attention, but it is the wrong type of attention. Isn’t that what we really want: to be loved and appreciated for who we are, rather than just lusted over for what physical pleasure we can perform?

God doesn’t want us to be: Vain.

The word “vain” can mean two can hold two different meanings: being “excessively proud of or concerned about one’s own appearance,” or “without real significance, value, or importance; baseless or worthless; futile.” There’s a reason they’re related. Just focusing on one’s own identity and own physical beauty is a losing proposition.

I wanted to included one more, its a bonus!!

God wants to be: Gentle.

This is the imperishable beauty that 1 Peter 3:4 calls you to focus on instead of physical beauty. Also, it is the flip side to…

God doesn’t want us to be: Quarrelsome.

This is another character trait I am working on. I am working on being a better wife, a better mom and a better friend. I don’t want to be a fighter. I don’t want to be the nagging wife, friend or mom.  There are a number of Proverbs that talk about quarrelsome or nagging wives, and they don’t paint a pretty picture. Proverbs 19:13 and Proverbs 27:15-16. Look them up. I don’t want to be this women at all.

I know that there is more, but I feel like these are the ones that I need to work on. It is a good starting point for me for I know that they are more challenging and difficult to attain they they might first appear. I do know one thing, that by us all trusting God’s hand one day at a time, step-by-step, we all will grow in maturity of Christ and that my friend is what I want to do. Will you join me? With all the help we have on our side, we can put our trust in God not only for eternal life but for our purpose and direction for life while we are on this earth. 

 

Happy Monday, Friends!!

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A Sunday Thought Circle L Circle L Ranch God Sunday Thoughts

God~Our Team Captain

God~ Our Team Captain

My Sunday thoughts are quit simple.

God is our team captain.

This is what I have been thinking about,

When I was in school, a while back, our PE teacher would pick team captains. It was then the captains’ job to pick his/her team. I can remember the feeling that I would get when I would get picked. It felt good. Right? Do you remember the feeling of being picked? I do and I don’t ever want to forget that feeling.

That is the same feeling I got when God pick me to be on his team. You see, strong players are the backbone to every team.

But being on God’s team requires some responsibilities. Here’s my list:

Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor.

Ecc. 4:9

We have to work Together. When we work together, we can double our strength and get more done.

Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

Proverber 27:17

We have to have each other’s back. Being on God’s team is so special. It’s like checks and balances. We have someone watching our back. God will help us if we falter or lose sight of our goal, just like a good friendship. A good friend doesn’t always agree with you, what you do or what you say. A real friend is someone that is willing to challenge you, to be a better person. A team player encourages his teammates to be better players. Teamwork and friendship work in similar ways.

We have to work together. We all have something unique and special to offer God’s team. We must realize the gifts God has given to us through his love, together our team will have so many options and great advatages to share with others on our team.

We have to fill our spot. Teamwork relies on everyone knowing their position and fulfilling it.

We have to love our team mates. Teamwork requires a good foundation of truth and love. This is sustained by the forgiveness of God. We must follow God’s example and forgive each other. We also need to encourage others.

We have to be good communicators. I know that communication is key in any sport. I also know that communication is important when we are on God’s team. Prayer is the key to communication with our God.

To be an awesome team player, we don’t have to be extroverted or indulge in self-promotion. In fact, great team players have all kinds of personalities. All we really need is to be active, we need to participant and we need to play our role. To be an awesome team player, we need to put our teams objectives above our own and take the initiative to get things done without being asked. In the end, our team will win.

So what about being a team captain? Do you think that God assigns some of us to be “Team Captains” right along with him?

I do!

This verse provides the answers, and I love this verse:

Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you.

John 15:16

The verse is very powerful, right? I mean read it again. These are words that Jesus said.

“I have chosen YOU”

It gives me the goosebumps to be honest with you.

So what do we need to become a team captain? Do you think that God makes us team captains? Oh, I think he does and I think that we need to know what it takes to be a good captain. Here are my thoughts:

Team captains are team leaders. When God assigns us to be a “Captain” we need to listen, communicate and respects those that are on our team. Being a Godly example is to what I’m referring.

Team captains think positive. Being optimistic really means to be hopeful of something good. When God puts us as “Captain” we need to motivate those around us by saying, “We can do this together”, “I will join you.” God doesn’t want our team to fail. Positive thinking enables us to perform at a level that we would never think would be possible.

Team captains pray for their team. God knows our skills, well in fact, God knows everything and we need to pray that God will direct us in everything, everyday. Team captains know what their teammates are capable of doing and not only prays for them, but also gives their teammates opportunities to succeed.

 Team captains understand that it takes a team to win. I know that it takes a team everyday to help me and my family. Right? Yes, I am thankful for those that pray for my family and I. I am also thankful that God listens to my prayers for those around me. It truly does take a whole team working together  to win our game called Life.

Team captains know their teammates skills. I am so glad that God knows the skills I am capable of doing. He knows yours as well.

Team captains knows their teammates personally. Being a “Captain” takes time. Time seems to go so quickly, but it is actually the most important gift we can give our team. Time. Yes sitting down in the quiet, praying and listening is always crucial. Taking time to get to know our teammates is important as well.

Team captains are mentors. This one is so important and like I started before it takes time. Mentoring will help win this game of life. Listening, giving affirmation,being a friend, loving, caring, giving Godly advice, tips and instructions is all you need to be a great mentor. God is a great mentor example for all of us.

Bottom line: team captains take responsibility to lead all of his/her teammates. If God assigns us to be a “Captain” then we need to make sure we are thinking and acting for the betterment of our whole team and not our own benefit.

The most important teammate that we can have on our team is God. He is THE “Team Captain.” In this game of “Life” we are all teammates. Some of us might be assigned to be a team captain, but we all have the same goal. Right?

When God calls each of us home, we all want to see his face at the end of our race. So why not help each other out? Well this week I am stepping up my game, I want to be a team captain. I want to be a better team player and I want to pick you for my team.

Will you join me? Because I just picked YOU to be on my team and you have some responsibilities to fill.

 

Happy Monday to you all.

 
Categories
Friend love praying Sunday Thoughts

Jump-Start Your Week.

Jump-Start Your Week with Love.

My prayer this week: Lord, show me how to Love like you have loved me.

 

Jump-Start Your Week with Love.
And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, that, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.
2 John 1:6
My Sunday thoughts this week have been on one word: LOVE.
We are ALL so busy, right? We all have our own priorities, our own agendas and our own plans.
I have my own problems.
I am sorry that you have problems, don’t we all?
I don’t have time to help you.
I have enough burdens.
Too often, I will admit, because of my selfishness, I choose to close my heart to others.
I know when I close my heart and I know when I have my heart open. Do you?
When my heart is closed, I am only thinking of myself.
When my heart is open, I encourage others, I lift their spirits, and I make a difference.
It is called LOVE.
Do you follow the flow of LOVE that God puts in your heart?
I have come up with my list to Jump-Start my week and I am going to share it with you.
Pray….Everyday.
Listen…without…. interrupting.
Speak..without….blame.
Give…more…than I receive.
Answer..without…forming an opinion.
Share..whatever I can.
Enjoy Life…without complaining.
Trust…More.
Forgive.. and forget.
Promise….and never forget.
Be a Friend…even when I don’t really want to.
We only have this life to share with those around us. We aren’t promised tomorrow, but we do have today. We have today to change. I know life isn’t fair and somedays are rough, but I am going to change a few things in my life. I am Jump-Starting this week by praying, listening, speaking, giving, sharing, enjoying life, trusting, forgiving, promising and be a better friend than I was yesterday.
Going miles on Monday Smiles.

Hope you all had a good weekend.

Categories
A Sunday Thought Sunday Thoughts Unforgiveness

A Sunday Thought~ Dealing with our Insides

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought~Dealing with our Insides

The inside of the Grand Canyon represents my thoughts. When you are on the side of this canyon,

 you quickly realize that GOD is in control and has always been in control.

I know, it’s been a while since I have posted a Sunday Thought. The summertime has my days filled to the max.  I am sure you know what I am talking about.

This past weekend, while I was on the road a lot, I decided that today was the day I would share some thoughts that have been on my mind for the past couple of weeks. So without further ado:

Then Said the LORD, Doest thou will to be angry?
Jonah 4:4

This verse in Jonah is asking, “Have you any right to be angry?”

What does toxic waste look like in our lives?

Unforgiveness.

Unforgiveness is the one that I have been thinking about, praying about and studying about. You see, unforgiveness seeps into our lives and takes over.
It comes in many forms like anger, depression, bitterness and low self esteem.
This toxic waste can show up before we even know it and cause damage before we can stop it.

Does this sound familiar?

The simple truth is that if we have these things inside of us, it is going to end up contaminating everything that comes out of us. Have you seen this before? I know that I have. I have seen it in my own life and it is not worth it. You see, I find that it contaminates my personality and my attitude.

I have decided that this ONE life I have to live, is important. 
I have decided that this ONE life I have to live, I am not going to waste my moments on things that I can not control. 
I have decided that this ONE life I have to live, I am going to forgive.
I have decided that this ONE life I have to live, I am going to remove the toxic waste from myself.

Over the last couple of weeks, I have let toxic waste build up and up. I have not forgiven people that I should. I have let bitterness and low self esteem take over.

Let me tell you something that I don’t really want to share.
Yesterday as I was driving down the road, tears were flowing down my face. I was struggling with God. I knew that he was trying to help me remove the toxic waste and I was trying to hold onto it.
AND then, this song came on XM Radio,

When I Am Gone

I prayed and wept because I knew that I had been holding onto toxic waste.
I knew that I had been putting God on the back burner.
I knew that this ONE life I have, I needed to be seeking God and His ways.
I knew that I wouldn’t ever get a do-over on this day, and I wanted it to be the best. 

I want you to join me in cleaning out our Toxic Waste. I want you to know that I struggle every day. I want you to know that you are not alone. I want you to know that I pray for you.

I want you to know that I am taking a shovel to my Toxic Waste.  Do you need a shovel too?

Happy Monday, dear friends.  How is your summer going?

 

Categories
A Sunday Thought bible Circle L Ranch Sunday Thoughts Thoughts WHY

A Sunday Thought~ “What’s My Why”

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought~ “What’s My Why”

Sunday Thoughts, Circle L Ranch, Faith Family Ranching
“Lives scenery becomes beautiful when we forget the negative whys, and
remember the positive whys.”
That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee: Shall not Judge of all the earth do right?
Genesis 18:25
 
My thoughts this past week have been on the word “WHY.”
I find myself thinking about this word. So what really is my WHY?
I find myself trying to figure out WHY certain things happen to myself, my family and our friends. I find myself trying to setting goals, but never finishing them. I find myself not really knowing who I really am.
 
Do you ever have those feelings?

Do you know what your WHY is?
We may never know all the answers to the WHYS and that is OK.
All our goals might not happen and that is OK.
I find myself wallowing around in self-pity because I don’t know the answers or because I don’t hit my goal. I mean, I sometimes spend hours thinking of the WHY’s and the WHY-NOTS. But this week and the months to follow, I plan on leaving the negative WHYS out and bringing in the positive WHYS. I want to focus more on my dreams and my goals. I really want to find out my WHY.
This is WHY I am going to try to leave those Whys OUT:
They cause Stress.
They cause Anger.
They cause your feelings to be hurt.

Right?

These are the WHYs I am going to keep:
Why did I set the goal in the first place?
Why did those things really happen?

By leaving out the negative WHYS and bringing in the positive WHYS, I believe that we all can find our true selves.

My Final Thoughts Today:

What is our why? Why do you want the things you want in this life? If we want to achieve these goals, we need to first start out answering this question. 

Remember, anyone can tell us what we need to reach our goals, but it won’t matter unless we know what motivates souls within ourselves.

I want to trust God more, knowing that all negative WHYS will go away. I want accept that we will always have some unanswered questions and that is OK.  

I aim to find MY WHY and I want you to join me.Happy Monday, dear friends.
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A Sunday Thought Blessings friends Sunday Thoughts

A Sunday Thought~ Speak a Blessing

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought~ Speak a Blessing

Blessings, Ranch Life, Ranch Mom, Kids,
Dear God. Please never let me be to busy to recognize your
blessings or never let me be to busy to hear your voice.
(Photo Credit to Cassie Leithead)
My thoughts this past week have been on words that we speak.
Negative words can destroy us.
Negative actions can destroy an attitude.
Ever feel that way?
 
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
Proverbs 25:11
 
Talking negative about someone and then expecting them to be blessed can not happen. In that regard, we often find our selves being too harsh and find faults with our children and loved ones. Our negative words and/or actions can cause those around us to lose the sense of value that God has placed with them and in doing that, cause our enemy to bring all kinds of insecurities and/or struggles in their lives.
Have you ever thought about that?  Well I will be honest with you all. I am guilty.
I am guilty but I am asking God to help me.
I thought, I prayed and read the Bible. I don’t want those around me to feel inferior to me. I don’t want those around me to be unsure about themselves.  I want to help them. I want them to be the best that they can be.  I aim to do better.  Will you join me?
I was thinking about our kids.
What am I passing on to them?
Honesty, Love, Compassion and Caring are just a few things I want them to have.
But I can not just think about it, I have to vocalize it.  I have to show it in my life.
Blessings are not blessings until they are spoken.
I love you.
I believe in you.
You are awesome. 
You are amazing.
I have faith in you. 
 
I want to talk about MY blessings more than my burdens. 
 
This week and the weeks to come, I want those around me to feel the love. I want those around me to see Godly actions. I want those around me to feel a positive feeling.
Blessings to you all.
Good day!!
Categories
A Sunday Thought God inspire Sunday Thoughts

A Sunday Thought~ In·Spire

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought~In·Spire


inˈspī(ə)r/in·spire

verb
  1. 1.
  2. fill (someone) with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
  3. “his passion for romantic literature inspired him to begin writing”
  5. 2.
  6. breathe in (air); inhale.

(https://www.google.com)

I have a question for you?
What are You respiring into people?

re·spire
rəˈspī(ə)r/
verb
  1. breathe.
  2. “he lay back, respiring deeply”
    • (of a plant) carry out respiration, especially at night when photosynthesis has ceased.

Hope? Love? Passion? Confidence? Happiness?

My thoughts this week have been focused on this question.
WHAT DO I DO THAT INSPIRES THOSE AROUND ME?

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
2 Timothy 3:16

WHAT you breathe into people isn’t as important as THAT you breathe into people.

Reality is it takes elements to inspire people.
These elements include:

Ourselves- What have we become ourselves?
Experience- What experience do people get when they are around us?
Relation- Can they relate to us?

After doing a little soul searching on this In·Spire topic, I wondered to myself; how can I become an inspiration to those around me?

This is what I have come up with:

Be Fun, Be Positive, Have a Good Attitude
People won’t listen TO, or be inspired BY, someone they have a hard time taking seriously. After all, it’s impossible to listen to someone if you’re too busy questioning that person’s character.

Be Ourselves. Be Authentic.
God made us unique. We each have our own perspective on life. There is no need to be ashamed of who we are.

Don’t Worry. Be Happy.
Stop worrying about what other people think. Be confident in yourself. Our human nature seeks approval, but if we learn to not look for approval of others, we will not only be happier, but it leaves room for us to inspire those around us.

Be a Good Listener.
Have you ever just needed to talk to someone, and when you started talking, they wouldn’t listen? It is frustrating and a lot of time it hurts our feelings. Being a good listener takes an effort but it is worth it in the end.

Be Consistent.
Being consistent is hard to execute and even harder to come by. Consistency, despite convenience and comfort, creates a unique character– and that is inspiring. We all have a special talent, maybe we can write, maybe we can help out in our communities, maybe we are good with words, so let’s share it with those around us-EVERYDAY! Think about this: Do you know someone that SHARES their gifts regularly that isn’t inspiring? I can bet you no. Because it is impossible.

Unfortunately – despite our best efforts – we CAN’T inspire everyone we meet.

Some people just aren’t inspirable.

No matter how hard you work to get their respect.
No matter how hard you work to be their friend.
No matter how hard you try to help them.

Not everyone wants or is willing to be inspired.

AND THAT IS OK.
I have a challenge for ALL of us.  Our challenge in life, is to include the attributes of inspirational people in our lives.

Because THAT is the only way to increase the probability that other people will become inspired too.

REMEMBER: We can not inspire everyone.

You CAN, however, increase the probability of inspiration by molding yourself into the most inspirational person you know.

I have a question for you?
What are You respiring into people?

Categories
A Sunday Thought God Patience ranch life Sunday Thoughts

A Sunday Thought~Patience

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought~ Patience

Ranch Life, Nebraska, Land scape
My patience this past weekend was tried to the MAX, but I have learned more about practing patience.
You see, this past weekend Circle L Ranch received a significant amount of moisture and I learned a little more about patience.
Patience is a Struggle.
Patience is the art for overcoming the difficulties.
Patience is waiting for snow to boil so that we could feed our bucket calves.
Patience is waiting for the lights to come on. (We are 58 hours and counting without electricity.)
Patience is not having a dishwasher.
Patience is not having a shower for 3 days.
Patience is not being able to wash our clothes.
Patience is not having a land line phone.
Patience is seeing mud and thinking about all the green grass coming.
 
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. 
Roman 10:17
As I read my Bible by candle light this weekend, I quickly changed my attitude about patience.
 
That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. 
Hebrews 6:12
Sometimes when things don’t happen on our timetable, it can be tempting to get discouraged. But in the season of waiting is when you have to dig your heels in and refuse to give up! This is how we dealt with this weekend’s issues. I know that God is doing something in me at the same time that He is doing something for you. God knows that we need green grass for our cattle, so he is bringing us moisture. The little things this weekend, like not having electricity, has really made me appreciate power lines and the crew that helps keep them running.
My reminder for all of us today: God has us in the palm of His hand. I know that we all have some kind of difficulties in our lives right now, but they are not that difficult for God. Our challenges should not stop us; they make us stronger, they help develop us.
My ending thoughts today:
Let patience have its perfect work. At the end of the day, not having electricity was a blessing. The kids, my Cowboy and I had a good time eating and reading by candle light.
Trust that God is faithful to His promises. God always keeps his promises and I don’t need to worry.
Speak faith over your circumstances. I prayed a lot for our neighbors, our friends, our livestock and their livestock this weekend when the snow was blowing, and we couldn’t see the barn. I knew that God was in control.
Declare His goodness and faithfulness. After the storm passed, the sun came out and I prayed to God and told him “Thank You.”
God is fighting our battles and working behind the scenes.
Don’t give up because with faith and patience, it’s just a matter of time before you see His promises come to pass!
I would like to say “Thank You” for those who prayed for our ranch this past weekend and for those who texted and called.
Happy Monday, dear Friends!.
I am leaving you with a few photos from this past weekend.
Eating pistachios by candle light.

 

Boiling snow for bottle calves
Snow man, Ranch kids
Cade built a snowman. (No that is not Coal)
Dog pat
Cade knee deep in water.

 

Windmill, Nebraska Snow, Ranch Life
and at the end of a storm, I think what a wonderful life.
Categories
Enemy God Sunday Thoughts War

A Sunday Thought from the Circle L ~ Our Battle Field

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought from the Circle L ~ Our Battle Field

Cow, Cow Dogs, Blog, Ranch Life
Everyday we need to bow our heads, get to our knees and ask God to help us with our mind war.
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. 
Isiah 26:3
Do you believe this?
We are fighting a war everyday.
Whether or not you are aware of it, we have a war raging all around us, and we have a battle for our minds. Our enemy’s target happens to be our thoughts. Our enemy wants to control how we think, because when he has our minds, he can control our entire lives.
So how do we know when the enemy is close?
Our enemy is very patient. He will wait until we least expect him. He loves control. He loves to put negative thoughts in our minds. This is how the enemy talks to us:
Obsesses, Confuses, Pushes, Frightens, Rushes, Discourages, Condemns, Worries.
This is how God talks to us:
Calms, Comforts, Leads, Stills, Encourages, Enlightens and Fills us with Peace, Provides Joy.
Our thoughts determine our actions, our attitudes, and our self image. Our thoughts determine our destiny.
Thoughts are POWERFUL. Words are POWERFUL.
You see we can WIN our War. We have God on our side, and all we need to do is let him fight the fight for us. Prayer and positive thoughts will strengthen our force.
I am going to leave you with these thoughts:
The enemy of ours is not after our money or our stuff. All he really wants is our minds, our attitudes, our hearts, our faith and our peace. He wants the things we can not see. He wants to battle for it. Our mind will always believe everything we tell it. This week I want to win the battle and I want you to win as well.  Let’s feed our mind with faith, feed it with peace, and feed it with love.
Do you need help in your battle field?
I would be glad to help.
Happy Monday, Friends!!
Categories
God Happiness Mold Sunday Thoughts

A Sunday Thought~ “Fit” Into Your Mold

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought~ “Fit” Into Your Mold

Cowgirl, God, Mold, Happiness
Matthew 12: 37 says…by your words you will be justified…., and

 by your words you will be condemned….In other words, the way we talk

 and think about ourselves reveals how we feel about ourselves.

 I make mistakes, I compare myself to others, and I sometimes

 want to “Fit” into someone else’s mold. I am asking God to help me

“Fit” into my own mold.
But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. 
For every man shall bear his own burden.
Galatians 6:4-5
My thoughts this past week have been on pretending.
Pretending that I need to “fit” into someone else’s mold.
Have you ever felt like this?
Ever feel like someone is trying to “fit” into your mold?
Hear me out; We don’t fit into somebody else’s mold; and other people don’t fit into our mold as. So we should all stop trying. God likes us all. He wants me to be the best Naomi can be, not aspire to be like somebody else.
I talked to a friend last week about this topic and she had some really good advice; “Just be yourself!” It hit me on the head like a hammer on a nail. What God wants us to be is ourselves.
After my chat with my friend, my attitude changed and my thoughts were redirected. I dared myself to be happy. Happiness comes to us by accepting ourselves (the opposite of being insecure). Many social, physical, and emotional problems stem from the fact that we aren’t happy ourselves (insecure), and so we try to “fit” into someones else’s mold. Our thoughts are negative. We are always comparing ourselves and wishing we were different. Ever feel this way?
I won’t lie, that is how I was last week. I was pretending. I wanted to “fit” into someone else’s mold. After I hit my head with the hammer, I rethought my approach. I was created to be ME. God made us all different for a reason. He has a goal for each of us. We need to be a God-pleaser, not a man-pleaser. This week I am going to work on my own mold. I am going to be happy. And my new attitude is this:
 
I am confident in who I am. I’m not going to go around pretending, wishing I were something else, trying to fit into somebody’s else’s mold. I am going to be happy myself and leave out the negative. I want to have courage to “Fit” into my own mold.
Who is in with me? Do you “Fit” in your mold?
Happy Monday, dear friends!!
Categories
A Sunday Thought God Home Rock Sand Sunday Thoughts

A Sunday Thought from the Circle L~ Home is Where Your Heart Is.

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought from the Circle L~ Home is Where Your Heart Is.

“Home is Where Your Heart Is.”
When we build our house upon him,
the storms may come, but we will not fall.

Therefore whosever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
And every one that heareth these saying of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish

man, which built his house upon the sand:

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. 
Matthew 7:24-27

As you may or may not know, I spent 3 full days last week being a sponsor for our local FFA chapter at the Nebraska State FFA Convention. The state FFA convention is one of my favorite places to go. Our days were filled with Ag related competitions and sessions that contain motivational speakers, awards, and sponsor speakers.

One of the speakers asked “Are you building your home on a solid foundation?” She went on to tell us that “Home is Where the Heart is” and that we need to help others build their homes and then we need to help protect them.

Wow! This really got me thinking. I am familiar with the verses in Matthew and Luke that talk about building on the sand and upon a rock. After that speaker, when I had a little quiet time, I reread those verses. These are my thoughts:

In order to have a home we have to build one on a rock. We have to have a solid foundation before we can start. Our foundation needs to have solid footings.

How do we do that?
Praying and seeking God’s guidance.

Satan tries to get us to build on the sand. He knows that the sand is not stable, and that if a storm comes along, our home will wreck. He wants the satisfaction of seeing us struggle.  I don’t know about you, but I want my Home on a rock.

“Home is Where Your Heart Is.” 
Think about that statement.
Home is where you feel comfortable, protection, warmth, love and care. This week I would like to work on my Home, I want to help you with your Home, and then I want to help protective what we have built.

“Home is Where Your Heart Is.” 
Build it Strong. If we would tear down our own home, what would be left? Would the walls be to strong to fall? Would all we have left be earthly things? I want to have my walls strong enough so I don’t have to worry about my earthly things. I want to be a better person by helping those around me.

“Home is Where Your Heart Is.”
Jesus is our rock. He is our firm foundation. If we listen for His voice, we all can be assured that no matter what comes our way, no matter how bad the storms of life may get, our Home will never move.  That to me is a comforting fact.

Happy Monday, Friends.

Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:
He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. 
But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.
Luke 6:47-49

Categories
A Sunday Thought Banquet Feast God Sunday Thoughts

A Sunday Thought~Come to My Banquet

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought~Come to My Banquet

We are all invited to dine with God.
From now till eternity.
All we must do is join him at His Banquet.
O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
Psalms 34:8
Today I want to talk to you about going to a special banquet. 
 
It is a FREE event.
 
I want you all to join me.

Many of us go through life with a weak-worn-out mentality. Let me give you an example.“Well, I can’t do it; I don’t have what it takes.”
“Well, I don’t know how you do everything you do. I struggle with what I’ve got.”
“Well, I can’t do that.”
“I am too tired.”
“I’ll never be that good.”

If you have ever said that, then you are conforming yourself to that weak-worn-out mentality. I know that I have found myself saying those above statements. Those weak-worn-out mentality statements allow ourselves to be full of fear, worry, doubt and anxiety and those statements will make us surrender to a weak-worn-out mentality.

It is in those times that we have a free ticket to God’s banquet. It is time to step up to God’s dinner table and take part of His feast. You see, God has prepared for us to attend. You know what he has prepared for all of us?

Joy
Forgiveness
Peace
Healing
Restoration
Love

God has prepared a special place for you and for me with everything that we need for a life that is full of potential. Will you pull up your chair and take the place He has prepared for us?

When we choose to attend His banquet, we will have statements that sound like this:
“I can do it and I have what it takes.”
“I can do everything because I have God on my side.”
“I am well rested and ready for anything.”
“I am good enough.”

You ticket is already paid for.


Will you join me at His banquet?

Happy Monday, dear friends.  

 
Categories
faith God Sunday Thoughts

A Sunday Thought~ Faith

A Sunday Thought

A Sunday Thought~ Faith

When I am worried, its because I am trying to do everything myself.
When I am at peace, it is because I have Faith that God is in control.

Have you ever heard, “Just have faith?”I am betting that you have.

This past week my thoughts have been on Faith.

“Just Have Faith”

It really is a powerful statement.  Mark Twain remarked, “Faith is believing in what ain’t so.”  I dug a little deep, studied a little more and this is what I found:

Faith Bible Verses.

The Bible is full of verses about Faith.  The following are my favorites:

And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.
Mark 10:27

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 
In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
John 14:1-3

And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. 
Romans 4:21

Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
James 1:3

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Hebrews 11:6

Faith In God.

In order for us to have daily Faith, we need to have Faith in God. Faith in Salvation. Faith that there is a heavenly Father.

Faith in Healing.

Is your Faith strong enough to heal? Ok, so what I mean is this: Have you ever been hurt by words/actions? We all have, right? Did you have Faith enough for God to heal your wounds. To Forgive and Forget? I know that I need more Faith in Healing.  I believe it, I just need to let God heal it.

Faith in Action. 

Our lack of faith today could be doubt and skepticism. Satan is always knocking on our doors. Can you hear him? Yep, I can!  He is not welcome in my door.  I have Faith believing that tomorrow is going to be better than today. I have Faith that I am going to take action against doubt and skepticism. Faith in action means asking God for more Faith.

Faith and Trust.

Today we are tempted to put our faith in things that are not dependable. We are tempted to put faith in money and material things, instead of God. Have you ever been challenged in your life?  Maybe you lost a job, a loved one, or just an everyday challenge. I know I have been challenged. It is OK because each time I had a challenge, I looked back and saw God’s faithfulness. God keeps his word and I have come to understand perseverance. Trusting God with our smaller problems will build a strong Faith to believe in Him with larger issues.

Ways to have more Faith.

I have made a list to help me to have more Faith. I thought I would share them with you.

Stay Positive. Believe that God has a plan for each of us. Put our troubles/worries into God’s hands. Be thankful. Have gratitude. Help Others. Focus on the light, even in the dark. Believe in Miracles. Believe in the Power of Prayer. Believe that Broken Hearts will Heal.

Now, I want You to share with me a few thoughts.  How do you have more Faith? What can you add to my post?

Happy Monday, dear Friends. Thanks for reading and feel free to share.