Day 28 - The Loquacious Tongue

Day 28 – The Loquacious Tongue

“When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.” Pro 10:19

Loquacious – Richard’s definition (my dad): diarrhea of the mouth! Oh boy, this is another big one for me. As I read Pegues’ commentary on this tongue-sin, it is pointing right at me: the loquacious one is known to go on and on, jump from topic to topic, motor mouth.

If you have this malady, do you know why you do it? Are you lonely? Do you have little opportunity to talk to others? Do you love the sound of your own voice? Do you think you have knowledge that must be shared with others? YES, YES, YES and YES. Well, incessant talking is not glorifying to God.

The Apostle Paul admonished the Thessalonians to “study to be quiet”. 1 Thes 4:11. In this sense “to study” means to strive for and put in intense effort. It will take work. Here are some tips when you find the mouth running on the open road:

1. Just stop talking and ask the other person or people an open-ended questions
2. Count to fifty (silently!!!) before responding to a question
3. In a group, sit quietly and enjoy the silence. Notice how uncomfortable most people are and silently pray that their minds and mouths will stop and enjoy the peace
4. Restate a person’s question and ask if you heard correctly—wait for a response!
5. If you are giving information, facts, or teaching—stop talking and ask your audience, friend, partner, etc. what they think the answer, facts, course of action is.
6. Be open to different responses before barreling through with the “right” answer

I admit, I don’t always practice what I preach—and I can preach on and on and on…As we’ve been going through this tongue fast and observing ourselves I can share with you that God is working on me.

Just the other day I had a conversation with a friend. She was frustrated with me over my lack of being open with her about some of my struggles. Now, I had asked her to help me with some things so she wasn’t being a “busy body” just trying to do what I asked for. She shared that I talk too much and don’t listen; that I hear but don’t act; that I sometimes lacked humility. She was right on point! That is what I need to get better at to be a great witness for Christ.

When I hung up the phone I wasn’t too upset. I had a few immature thoughts but I did take her observations to heart. Wednesday night I had a speaking commitment with a group. I was going to share my testimony with a large group of people. I’m normally not overly nervous when I speak in front of people. I felt good when I got up to speak. I started with my outline and then BAM—my tongue, my mouth and my lips just dried-up.

I wasn’t shaking, I wasn’t sweating, I wasn’t having anxiety—I simply could not speak. After a few minutes of trying, a lady from the audience brought me a cup of water. I took a sip and proceeded to speak.

What came out of my mouth was not anything I intended to share with the group. I went down the path of humility, trust, kindness and spoke for about 15 of the 40 minutes allotted. When I finished, I was done. I don’t remember every word but I remember the feeling it was strange. I feel okay (for the most part, I am trying not to beat myself up). I figure that God gave me the words, I spoke them and then I shut-up. God must have been preparing me for this lesson.

AFFIRMATION: When my words are many, sin is not absent, but when I hold my tongue I am considered wise. Amen, Sister Lisa

Day 27 - The Doubting Tongue

Day 27 - The Doubting Tongue

"Verily I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says." Mark 11:23

Doubt is a close cousin to fear...when you doubt your Heavenly Father will protect you, provide for you, clothe you, comfort you, carry you, cleanse you it is all because you fear that somehow, someway, He has forgotten you or doesn't care for you or you don't deserve it! He says that no one is righteous, not one--yet He gave His Son a Ransom, Holy and Blameless, for us--to save us to Himself.

To cast doubt out you need to learn, absorb and believe the promises God has for you. Psalm 91 is wonderful...He is my refuge, my place of safety, He is my God and I am trusting Him...
The words that spring from our mouths are merely a reflection of what is in our hearts. Do you have a believing heart? Is there any unbelief lurking in there that you reserve just for yourself? His word says to ask Him to help our unbelief.

Practice, practice, practice. Commit to memorizing and saying aloud one Psalm-Psalm 1 is wonderful and short. Do that for one week until you know it, say it, and believe it. Then pick another promise God has made and do the same thing. If you commit to five minutes each day for one week to work on a verse, a series of verses, a Psalm or Proverb you will be filling your heart with BELIEF!

When we doubt, that means we have put our trust in ourselves or in man. I used to have a paralyzing fear of flying. I would rarely fly and when I did I needed five to six months to start getting my mind ready for the trip. When I got on the plane, I was a wreck. I had my Bible but I never opened it--I just sat and cried. I held on for dear life and refused to eat or go to the bathroom. Now mind you--most of the time I would only fly to see my parents and that is a six hour trip one way! Oh the torture I put myself, my family and the fellow passengers through--such drama and energy.

The doubt about taking off, the doubt about landing, the doubt that the pilot got enough sleep, had sobered up, that the screws had been turned correctly, that the luggage handler forgot to lock a door, that a freak storm would come. You name it---anything you could prove wouldn't happen I had another one to take its place. Forgive my unbelief Lord!

Something happened to me in 1999. My mother had an aneurysm in May. I flew out to be by her side for two weeks. When I returned home, she passed away a week later. The whole family flew out to be with my dad and sister. I didn't even remember that flight, I actually read my Bible. Four weeks later, I was on a plane to Paris and Geneva for work. A work friend flew with me and I stayed awake the entire time--but I made it. Subsequently, I needed to fly about every 5-6 weeks overseas for a project I was working on in 2000-2002. My dear friend Pat's husband is a pilot for British Airways.

She invited me to her house near London and we had a fantastic dinner and Keith explained everything to me about flying, the physics, the weather, the sounds, the noises, the training. Okay, but what about crazy terrorists? God is so great, an awesome wonder....

Keith explained to me that he had been taken hostage in 1991 during the first Gulf War along with his flight crew and passengers in Kuwait. He was held in the basement of a palace for five months! He showed me pictures, he talked of the Christmas dinner they managed to scrape up from crumbs (farina, beans and a tomato to split with 50!) But they dressed in their finest black tie (they had luggage) although most had lost so much weight the clothes hung. They whispered Christmas caroles and had joy!

His Word, His Joy is salve to our doubting souls! To this day, I do not quiver, quake or fear air travel. I leave it in God's hand, I ask for His mighty protection His holy angels to guide us and keep us. I believe!

Doubt? Our God can and does do exceeding abundantly above all we can ask or think, but it is according to the power that works in us. Is His power in your heart, mind and soul? If so, get out of the way and let God be God!

AFFIRMATION: Anything is possible if I believe. Therefore, I say that I believe every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God and I will not discuss or give space to my doubts. Amen, Sister Lisa

Day 26 - The Discouraging Tongue

Day 26 - The Discouraging Tongue

"When they were discouraged, I smiled at them. My look of approval was precious to them." Job 29:24

Have you ever dampened some one's hope, enthusiasm or dreams by raising objections? So many of us have missed our destiny or left our dreams unfulfilled because of discouraging words. We've felt it and seen it and, perhaps, done it ourselves. Most people who discourage don't intend to cut some one's destiny short or dash the idea of an inventor.

People who use discouraging words tend to lack a deep faith in God. We know that God can do exceeding abundantly above all you could ask or thinking--He is God! Remember when the Israelites were right at the cusp of the Promised Land? Moses sent Caleb and Joshua with 10 other men to check out what lie ahead. Caleb and Joshua came back and reported that all things were huge and extreme in the land of milk and honey. They told of grape clusters that had to be carried by two men! They also saw giant-sized men.

When the scouts returned, Caleb and Joshua encouraged Moses and the people to forge ahead and go into the new land. But the ten other scouts raised doubts, the spread discouraging tales about the giants. "We can't go up against those giant men. They are stronger than we are! The land will swallow up anyone who goes to live there. The men are giants and we are like grasshoppers." Numbers 13:31-33

All of this discouragement after God had led them out of captivity in Egypt, parted the Red Sea, fed them Manna from heaven, sustained their lives through viperous hills. The scouts even talked of returning to Egypt saying it was far better to be a slave and know where our meals come from and our shelter. They wanted to stone Caleb and Joshua for their optimism!

God took swift and sure punishment on the unbelievers. He killed the ten discouragers with a plague. He then remanded all of the Israelites to wander in the desert for 40 more years! Further, He forbade anyone who was older than 20 years at the time from entering the Promised Land 40 years later--including Moses. Caleb and Joshua, who kept faith in God's promises, were allowed to enter.

What do we miss or cause someone to miss through discouragement? When someone is discouraged can they count on you to encourage them, to lift them up, to share God's promises? We must always use wisdom when someone comes with a bright idea or ambition so we don't encourage one into folly or sin; but there is a Godly way to do that and not discourage the person.

I remember being in 8th grade when I fell in love with writing. I read Sylvia Plath's 'The Bell Jar" and it changed my life. I wanted to be a writer from that point on. Mrs. Bishop, my 8th grade English teacher, was such an encourager. She read my writings and commented on them. Encouraging me to practice my craft and telling me I had a special gift. My counselor and parents thought differently. I should learn a trade or go to law school, now not to be a lawyer mind you, but to go to Harvard or Yale or Smith! I left that pencil down for many years.

I didn't do either--go into writing or Harvard. I did go to vo-tech for cosmetology and I flunked out for being late--two months before graduation. I've carried that chip on my should for a long time. When I met my husband and started college at 21, we had to take English. We had to write an extemporaneous short story and I remember mine. It was a description of life without your pinkie finger. My teacher loved it (I still have the paper somewhere deep in some dusty box) and my love was ignited again.

So here I am, 48, blogging and writing for the Lord! Two passions in one. My husband, my family and my children all encourage me. I am no longer afraid to just do it. What was once a chip has now become a flower in my life. My writing is like oxygen to a swimmer, like adrenaline to the runner, like canvas to the painter...it is a sustenance for a gift that God gave me. I enjoy it, I am grateful for it and I need it to complete who I am for God's glory!

Do not let man's words derail your dreams, but let God's words lift you up...a man that falls down six times must get up seven. Believe in His promises for you. Amen, Sister Lisa

AFFIRMATION: If I hear someone spewing discouraging words; I will endeavor to lift the person up with encouragement and words of kindness, gentleness and love.

Day 25 - The Accusing Tongue

Day 25 - The Accusing Tongue



"The accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before God day and night, had been hurled down." Rev 12:10

Most of you are familiar with the story of Job. He lost everything: family, possessions, livelihood, his health. His friends and wife tried to comfort him by accusing him of pride, covetousness and other sins which, they conjectured, was why all of this evil befell him.

The friends had the intent to comfort Job; but they spent their time telling Job what a bad person he must be for God to cause him so much loss. Job knew he was a righteous man, he believed that God would have mercy on him and restore his life. Job suffered without complaints but rather chose to praise God for His Sovereignty, His Provision, and His Salvation.

Have you been falsely accused? Have you falsely accused someone? That is Satan's main job--to accuse the brethren day and night before Almighty God. Don't fall prey to the devil's tactics. Don't allow him to use you to cast doubt and shame on one of God's children.

When you are wronged, something is broken or you believe someone else committed a wrong. STOP! God's word give clear direction on how to handle this situation. It is shown in the story of Adam and Eve.

God uses wisdom and maturity to ask Adam and Eve about trespassing in the Garden of Eden. "Then the Lord God called to Adam and said to him, "Where are you?" So he said, "I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself." And He said, Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you that you should not eat?" Gen 3:9-11

Now, God already knew the answer but He gave Adam the opportunity to explain himself. Ask and listen. This is all we need to do when we believe someone has done something wrong or lied. If you are accused, remember that all lies originate with he devil--he is the father of all lies. What should you do if you are accused? Go to God and ask Him to reveal the truth. That's it. It is futile to argue with others. If you can go to the person who started the lie and simply state that the information is not true, that is fine as long as you do it in love and forgiveness.

AFFIRMATION: God, you know all. You are Truth and therefore, today I will not accuse anyone of wrongdoing but will ask and listen to the circumstances. If I am accused Father, I ask you to bring the truth to light, I forgive the person who accused me since I know that the devil is the master of all lies and you have already defeated him. I thank you for your truth, your words and your love. Amen, Sister Lisa

Trust in God and In Your Spouse!

The Story of Norma Rae and the Power of Words

In my previous post, I mentioned my husband calling me 'Norma Rae'. My husband and I are married twenty-five years. That is quite an accomplishment in today's world. A lot of people want to know the secret of a long and joyful marriage. For one, I ponder every word that proceeds from husband's mouth. There is always a lesson and God has used Ty to sanctify, cleanse, teach and make me a better wife, mother, sister, friend and Christian. Don't get me wrong, I don't always like it, walk around skipping and analyzing...it is more subtle than that but it is deliberate.

Ty knows me, loves me and prays for me. His comment about Norma Rae came from a place of concern. He knows my special gift to weep with those who weep and defend the fatherless and weak! He has seen me run to their aid and has held me as I cried for sufferers; he also protects me from predators who use me for wicked purposes or selfish gain--not my gift to detect this in people. My gift is to write, love and translate passion into words on the page and pray that you get a blessing!

His gift, of discernment, let's him understand how this wicked world works and how we can apply God's Word as salve to soothe and heal us. He is suited to protect, not only me and his family but the greater innocents. Mommy (my beloved friend and mother-in-law) and me chatted many times about how God gave him that gift and requires him to use it for the greater world in which he stood. God created him, not me and therefore, I pray to have an unselfish heart and to appreciate Ty's concern for others--and I do appreciate it.

'His shoulders are broad and his wisdom goes deep' is how I describe him as a person (not in wifey-mode, but person to person). Those of you who know him understand what I mean. Mommy questioned his unshakable focus at times; she worried if he could let the burdens off and relax. He can and he does, trust me! I truly love Ty to the core, the marrow, and I know he is one of many people who Jesus sent to rescue me and help me grow, blossom and fly into the butterfly God envisioned at my creation. Just like Mommy's gift to make you feel you were the most important person in her life; Ty gives everyone the confidence that 'this too shall pass' and that everything will be alright--even in the face of tragedy, disaster, triumph and mundaneness. HOPE

So those words were said in love for a wife, love for his sister in Christ and guidance from the Holy Spirit to protect me from evil-doers and teach me to trust in the Lord with all my heart! I choose to receive them in love, I choose to find the challenge to grow, change, trust. My heart and mind have softened over the years and my mind has expanded as Christ renews me.

No secret to marriage, just five simple guidelines as stated in God's Word:

1. Jesus is first in our lives, He is the Head in our individual hearts and He is the head as we cleave together in one flesh.
2. Spouse is second. When we come together as one flesh, our bodies are not our own but given to each other to love, to please, to care for and therefore, we put our spouse above our needs as Christ put the Church above His own physical and emotional needs.
3. Remember you are One Flesh. Decisions, power, choices, and disappointments must be shared but ultimately, there needs to be one answer. The husband is the head of the household and his answer prevails in a tie! He's the CEO, I am the COO. With that comes all the responsibilities and ACCOUNTABILITY!
4. Your children are gifts temporarily. They will leave you at some point in their lives and become one flesh with another. Train them, love them, teach them, encourage them. Them let them go make their own choices. Pray for them daily but remember guide #2, spouse comes before children!
5. Never forget that life is fleeting on this earth and that believers will reunite as brothers and sisters in Christ. We've suffered many losses and disappointments in twenty-five years; together we have mourned, weeped, gotten angry, forgiven, rejoiced, been bored, been ecstatic, clung together, fell apart but through it all--we find each other's hand and grab hold. We forgive, get up and trust each other.

When in doubt, read God's Word and check your log before you remove the speck in your spouses eye! For love covers a multitude of sins and we were sent to build up, not tear down. They will know us by our love for each other. It works every time. Love with passion and forgive with ease and hold nothing against your brother but in prayer lift him up to God who has the power to change, to cleanse, to sancitfy, Sister Lisa

Day 24 - The Retaliating Tongue

Revelations 6 - Opening the Fifth Seal to Avenge the Blood of the Martyrs

Day 24 - The Retaliating Tongue

"Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate when people say unkind things about you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God wants you to do, and he will bless you for it." 1 Peter 3:9

How easy it is for us to retaliate with our tongue! But then comes remorse...or we should feel remorse if we are God's children. The Holy Spirit lives in you--He convicts, guides, and works in you to sanctify you for God's good works.

Another confession...this is a big one for me to overcome. I get fleeting pleasure sending "zingers" to people who have hurt me, wronged me, made me feel small. Now before you pat yourself on the back, 'I don't do this, it isn't a stonghold for me,' think about it. If you don't launch a zinger back at the offender--do you share with your spouse, your admin, your co-workers what you would have said? I know, it hurts to look in that mirror!

To be completely free from this sin, oh yes, it is a sin, you must allow the Holy Spirit to convict you and then pray to not only stop slinging to the offender, not sharing what you would have done with others, but also PRAY FOR YOUR OFFENDER! Now, this is a prayer for blessing and not for cursing (Lord, forgive me for the many times I pretended to pray for my accusers but really wanted to feel superior in front of you--how unworthy I am to have received your grace freely).

Like author Pegues, I grew up watching people 'suffer in silence'. My mother had a gift for remaining silent and joyful in the face of some nasty comments and accusations about her family, her children, her choices. I don't recall a time when she took us aside and said anything negative about the offenders. It made me BOIL. I made a pact with myself--I would always speak out for myself and the underdog, how dare people do that to the defenseless.

Through many trials, errors, humiliations, and admonishments, I found this way just doesn't work. My husband once called me "Norma Rae". I was proud of that moniker for a time. I thought, see I am for the little person--they need me to stick-up for them. If not me, then who?

Problem was that given the chance, most people didn't want a savior and given the opportunity to offer the sufferers the ultimate Avenger, God Almighty our Christ, I put myself in the place of Jesus--I will save the day!

"Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do your part to live peaceably with everyone, as much as possible. Beloved, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God. For it is written, "I will take vengeance; I will repay those who deserve it," says the Lord". Romans 12:17-19

Just for today, like Jesus did on His way to the Cross, don't defend yourselves from false accusations or rumors or innuendo. Don't defend capable adults from wrong. Don't vent negatively to your spouse, partner, friends, or co-wo0rkers. You'll grow. Now it won't be easy especially if you have a heart for the downtrodden as I do--but, if you allow Him, the Holy Spirit will give you a spirit of discernment to know when to properly defend the defenseless and when to let it go and let God.

If you try this, that heart on your sleeve that is shaped like a serpents tongue coming out of a fist--will become smooth and vibrant and loving as a heart should be. Praises be to the Living God, Our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. Him who was, and is and is to come. Sister Lisa

AFFIRMATION: Lord, I trust you to give me the power of love, the power of forgiveness and the desire to act in kindness. You are all knowing, all seeing and there is no need to defend myself today; Christ paid the ultimate price for me and for that I am eternally grateful.

Oh, let me clean-up about my husband's comment about being Norma Rae, see the next post!

Day 23 - The Complaining Tongue

Day 23 - The Complaining Tongue

"I cry aloud with my voice to the Lord; I make supplication with my voice to the Lord; I pour out my complaint to Him; I declare my trouble before Him" Psalm 142:1-2

The daughters of Zelophehad had a problem. When their father died in the wilderness before the Israelites came to the Promised Land. Zelophehad had no sons, brothers, or male heirs to inherit his land; his five daughters had no husbands, brothers or sons either. The law did not allow for women to possess land at the time so Zelophehad's five daughters called a congressional hearing and took their concerns directly to Moses to appeal (Numbers 27).

Moses took the cause to God on behalf of the daughters and God agreed with the women--they were given possession of the land. What do you think would have happened if the daughters had just stayed where they were and complained amongst themselves or the villagers? Most likely they wouldn't have obtained the inheritance.

Complaining is whining or pleading a disappointment to people who cannot directly resolve the matter. How many times have you or a friend complained about a situation but the person to whom you complained had no power to change it? Most likely, you or the person joined in to commiserate. I have been there!

At work, I get a lot of people coming to my office to complain about a supervisor, a leader, a policy, etc. Many of the complaints are legitimate. If the person doesn't know me well I let them "plead their case". I then ask if they have taken the issue directly to (fill in the blank) to resolve the matter. 90% of the time, they haven't gone to the source. I encourage them to go and state the issue professionally and factually. I also let them know that it is no longer up for discussion with me as I cannot do anything to change the situation.

Only about 3 out of ten people actually go to the person who can offer a solution! I realize that many people just like to complain but they won't take responsibility for getting resolution. They have tried to re-approach me on the same subject but they do 'get the hand' and either move along or change the subject.

Do you complain? I do, sometimes I believe I am "venting" just blowing off steam and not really looking for an answer. About 10% of the time this is true and the other 90% of the time it is complaining! I want validation, I want to know I am right! Tell me I would win, please!!! God says that this is futile.

When we don't go to the source and take our troubles to God, we tell Him that we don't believe His promise to care for us and carry our burdens. When we don't give an offender the opportunity to right a wrong we carry resentment--negative energy--and the person walks around clueless! Think of times when someone confronted you responsibly--did you smack them down? No, you sincerely apologized and moved on.

Now, there are times when we have a situation we should trust to a close friend or partner. Someone to check out motives or interpretation; ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. There is a website that is dedicated to eliminating whining and complaining. The man gives purple rubberbands you wear on your wrist, when you catch yourself complaining you either move the band from one wrist to the other or you "snap" the band as a reminder to zip it!

www.acomplaintfreeworld.com

I tried it and it works! I am going to commit to move my "Love & Peace" band I wear everyday when I complain as a reminder--won't you try it for just one day? It could change your or someone elses life. God bless and love, Sister Lisa

AFFIRMATION: God, you work everything out for the good of those who love you; I love you Lord and therefore I won't complain. Amen.

Morning Prayer To Our Master Potter

God bless you and keep you on this wonderful Sabbath day! Taming the Tongue, Day 23 will be posted in the afternoon today. Just wanted to share a moment of praying and gratitiude with all of you this morning.

God is so faithful and gracious, when we zip the lip, tame the tongue and listen--He whispers in our ear and shows us the signs and wonders we need to carry through for today. That is all we need, just today. In fact, that is what He promised us. "Give Him all the pieces of your life and He will make you whole." I saw that on a local church sign.

It had me meditating on our Potter, He is the Master Potter and we are His clay. When our vessel was shattered when we were born unto God, He needs all the pieces to put us together wholly (holy)! If just one small shard is missing, the love, the Spirit, the new wine will leak out and the world will deplete us once again.

Look around, search your soul, check your heart, free your mind--is there anything, one small, little issue or habit or sin or regret that is lurking somewhere? Something you can do better than God--your finances, spouse, children, world hunger? When you find it He says to come to His throne boldly with confidence. He has the power to cleanse us from all sin and to wash us white as snow. Praises be to God!

When you take that step, you physically look for, pick-up, examine and hand Him the pieces of your vessel; He will make you holy, whole, meat for the Masters use! Hallelujah!!

"The Potter wants to put you back together again!!! Dreams and visions shattered, all broken inside? You don't have to stay in the shape you are in...you who are broken, stop by the Potter's House; He'll heal the fragments of your broken life...He wants to put you back together again." Thank you to Tremaine, Walter Hawkins and Stanley Turrentine for a wonderful prophetic song!

Bless you brothers and sisters and please spend your rest day in His care today, give Him honor and praise and glory. Lift Him Up!! Love to you, Sister Lisa

Day 22 - The Cursing Tongue

Day 22 - The Cursing Tongue

"Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not be so." James 3:10

Do you suffer from the need or the habit of cursing? I am by no means perfect in this area but I have worked hard to allow the Holy Spirit to tame my tongue in this regard. My ears prickle when I hear cursing. It may be my love of words that causes me to think "there is a better way to express that" when I hear someone cursing.

James says, "No man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in similitude of God." 3:8-9

Using obscene language is unbecoming for a child of God. A good person produces good deeds from a good heart, and an evil person produces evil deeds from an evil heart. Whatever is in your heart determines what you say." Luke 6:45

It is a HEART CONDITION! Let us ask the Holy Spirit to reside in our hearts, to cleanse our heart, to take that stony heart out and replace it with a moldable, teachable, soft and loving heart. Purify our hearts Lord, purge all uncleanness from it that we may speak with glory and love and honor you.

We must cast down imaginations, wicked thoughts, and evil as it comes to our mind. When we do this, we make room to invite the mind of Christ to reside in us and speak only those words that were given by our Heavenly Father. Blessing and cursing, life and death are in the power of the tongue and God gives us a choice. Choose to share life and blessing from your heart through your tongue. He says that both our children and ourselves will live eternal life.

Affirmation: God I give you full command of my tongue. Through your direction and grace I will only speak words that bring honor to Your Holy Name. Amen, Sister Lisa

Great to be back--been a challenging week. Home is good--thank you Jesus for traveling mercies!

Day 21 - The Self-Absorbed Tongue

Day 21 - The Self-Absorbed Tongue

"Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." Phil 2:4

Haman, in the book of Esther, was a self-absorbed person. He boasted of his wealth, sons, all the honors he had received and how high and mighty he had ascended. In the entire book of Esther, Haman only speaks of himself. Some people are like Haman--all of their conversations are centered around themselves, their drama, their lives, their wins, their losses, their issues, their awards, their failures, etc. etc. etc.!

Okay, GUILTY! I know I struggle with this and I do try to recognize when it is "happening" and shut my mouth of ask a question and listen to the other person. Getting better, but I still have a lot of growing to do in this area. For me, it stems from insecurity. If I talk about myself, I know what I am talking about, I am the "expert" and pretty much know I won't make a mistake.

Isn't that crazy thinking? Yes, Lord I need the mind of Christ. I need to give (my attention) to receive (from others) who that person truly is so that I may weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice! Through my work in recovery, I am learning to identify and not compare. I am also learning to identify and not have to tell others...big step for me!

I've been accused of over sharing---again, not that I am so trusting; just the opposite. I figure if I share then no one will ask me difficult questions or challenge me to reveal hurts and truths I have deep inside of my heart. Hmmmm, how do I change this? Let's look at God's Word because He is Jehovah Jireh, our Great Provider:

"My God shall supply all of your needs according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus." Phil 4:19

Always has an answer, God has supplied all my needs-my need to be heard, to be validated, to be confident--through Christ Jesus! That frees me to listen, encourage and care about others. To lead them to the Word where they can profess and hear for themselves the gift of grace that God has freely given.

God is the Great Healer...He will remove our stony hearts, our wicked thoughts, our selfish ways. He who gave so freely wants us to give our time, our ears, our love to others.

Affirmation: Lord, let me think of others before myself. Open my ears to listen and change my heart toward caring for another. I have everything I need; let me be a giver and not a taker Lord. Amen, Sis Lisa

Update for Friday

Greetings from Denver PA (nah, this picture is not Denver, it is home--San Diego in November!)

I am traveling on business and will post day 22 later Friday evening. Pray you are following along with the series; we only have 8 days left! At the end of this study I'll post checklists and Bible verses for your reference.

What about the next study? What do you want to dig into? A specific book, person, topic, doctrine, timeline? Please post comments by Saturday on your ideas so I can prep for next week. I am enjoying the study and have learned so much, lots of prayer and lots of self-discipline needed to move toward God's standard.

Miss my honey, my guys and my gerry! Will be home Friday evening. Love to hear from you, be blessed with peace, joy, and love. Sis Lisa

Day 20 - The Judgmental Tongue

Day 20 – The Judgmental Tongue

“Do not judge or you will be judged; for the same way you judge others, you will be judged.” Matt 7:1-2

Jesus had no tolerance for the Pharisees. They were skilled at judging others and they were miserable! They were always looking for something to nitpick and blame another for violating the Law or a man-made tradition. They criticized the disciples for not washing their hands and admonished Jesus for healing on the Sabbath. Here is Jesus’ response:

“You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. But if I do judge my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me.” John 8:15-16

Judgmental people criticize and find fault with other people’s behavior and actions. Most judgers judge people by their actions but the judgers judge themselves by their intentions. Until I read this, I never pondered this truth. How easy it is for me to “watch” someone and criticize him or her but find no fault in myself because “my heart” had good intentions though my actions didn’t show that to others! Lord, please forgive me.

People judge others based on their own beliefs and history. We may judge others based on rumors that have no basis in fact. Here is a wonderful quote from Benjamin Franklin, “I will speak ill of no man, not even in the matter of truth, but rather excuse the faults I hear, and, upon proper occasions, speak all the good I know of others.”

So we go back to my mom’s advice ‘if you can’t say anything nice don’t say anything at all.’ We must be mindful of how we speak of others and to others. We must not engage in speech that will inflame, tell half-truths nor build someone up in love.

In Matthew, God talks about judging others and He wonders why we choose to do that rather than look at ourselves. “Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the log in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘let me take the speck out of your eye’ the whole time with a log sticking out of your own? You hypocrite! First, take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.” Matt 7:3-5

The better way is to look at ourselves and judge ourselves by God’s standard, His Word. If we do see others are walking without God or Christians walking contrary to His standards we ought to pray for that person. If the person is close to you and you care enough to confront them, do so in love and encouragement. And then pray!

This type of bondage is only broken by prayer and fasting-I am speaking of my bondage to being judgmental of others and also to myself! Lord, forgive me for my judgmental thoughts, speech and actions. Renew in me a right spirit Lord; give me power to put on the mind of Christ and to walk in the gospel of peace. Cleanse me of my insecurities and help my unbelief. Remind me of the power that lives and works in me—the Holy Spirit. Keep me focused on my own eye when comparing your Word and my life. In all other matters let me talk, walk, think and believe in love, grace and mercy. Let me fast in secret Lord, deny my flesh of comfort to focus on Your Word, Your Promises, Your Healing Power. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Your humbling servant, Sister Lisa

God is Sovereign

God is a Mighty Fortress, He is Almighty, the Great I AM, He is all, knows all, creates all, destroys all, builds up all and He is Everywhere and Somewhere all the same. What an Awesome Wonder is Our Mighty God.



Please pray for the White Family in Madison Wisconsin. My workmate, Laurie White, passed away unexpectedly and suddenly this morning. She was in good health, very fit, lovely, and most important a believer in Christ. She had a knee injury and was scheduled to have surgery to repair a ligament. Last night, a blood clot broke in her leg and she was gone at 6:00 am today. 47 young years. She is the second company employee/family member to die this way in a month. My friend's husband, 52, had the same thing happen unexpectedly.

Laurie leaves to mourn her two young children, Chandler and Hayden (17 & 13) and a husband, Bob. She also leaves a company who loved her and grew to know her over 20 years--she came to our company out of high school. We are all struck by the suddeness; this is a loss that is difficult for me as many of you know I have lost three other great friends at a young age...



God is Mighty, He has the Master Plan. I must remain faithful and believe that all things work together for the good of them that love Him and who are in Christ Jesus. Yesterday an awesome and wonderful day, so many blessings to be grateful for in my life. I was in an accident and survived with nary a scratch! So I have been given back to my earthly family and Laurie, is in heaven and her family is grieving.



Today, I must tell you all that I love you with the deepest part of my heart. You have all breathed so much love, healing, truth, peace, encouragement, laughter, tears, joy, pain, giggles, silliness, seriousness, anxiety...all the range of emotions of life! What a blessed and FEELING life I have had up to today...thank you, thank you, thank you.



If I learn anything from death is it is just a beginning to eternal life; the choice is yours where you spend it. I am grateful that Laurie lived for her family and Christ. She got joy out of life and spent her time with family and friends--what a legacy she has left for her men. Knowing her, I don't believe she lived a life of one regret. So let's take that as our gift from Laurie--determine TODAY, to live today without one regret, no should haves, no could haves, no it doesn't matters, no someone else will help, no I don't have time, no I am too tired, no I don't want to be around people, no I'll do it later...



Please, do it now and don't delay. Jesus says He comes like a thief in the night and we always want to be ready for the time and day. Let Him come to find you doing His Will, loving your brother and sister as you love yourself; as Christ loved the Church so He gave His life for Her. That He would present her spotless, blameless before our Heavenly Father.



Do not fear, do not be afraid to step-out and shine the light of Christ on your children, your siblings, your coworkers, your parents, your friends, your enemies. I went to our executive offices today to give a few of the Corporate Officers a hug and prayer--they knew Laurie too. Reach out and give the love of Christ. PRAY PRAY PRAY without ceasing.



Bless you all and know you are truly in my prayers and thank you for my covering--His angels are at work. Amen, Sister Lisa

Day 19 - The Rude Tongue

Day 19 - The Rude Tongue

"There will be a highway called the Holy Road. No one rude or rebellious is permitted. It is for God's holy people." Isa 35:8

God has a great sense of humor...speaking of highway, wouldn't you love to have a highway for nice, considerate drivers? Everyday we commute to work, home, the store and are confronted with road rage--people saying rude things and showing obscene gestures. Why are we so rude? Is it over scheduling, 24/7 information, spoiled children, demands of the job, longer commute times?

Lack of patience is at a world-wide high. How did we get this way? Many believe that our fast-paced world of convenience has created unrealistic expectations that everything is achievable at a snap of the fingers or flick of a switch. Ill-mannered and rude conversation has become the norm--even amongst God's children.

I was in a prayer meeting recently listening to a believer testify to the glory and grace of Jesus. How He had changed her, He had cleansed her heart and her life. She gave a great testimony for the Lord. Immediately following her testimony she discovered that her purse was missing. The loud expletives and angry words that spewed from her mouth were astonishing. Even someone like myself who has walked with the Lord for about 23 years was taken aback.

Wow, POOF! Her testimony just disappeared and I am sure the unbelievers had a lot to say after leaving the meeting. "If that is what Jesus did for her, why bother?" What happened to the Golden Rule? "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Luke 6:31

It doesn't stop there...how many of us are guilty of talking loudly on our cell phones in a public setting? Have you heard cell phones ring in meetings or church? I ask God for wisdom when using my e-devices. Don't let me pull-out the Blackberry when someone is sharing with me, remember to put the phone on silent before meetings or church, pay attention when someone is talking and don't distract yourself with a book, the radio, the TV, etc.

Oh, God is still working on me! A while ago I was in a local service shop and my friend called me. I answered the phone and proceeded to hold an hysterical conversation with her. A man sitting near me tapped me on the shoulder, "Do you mind taking that outside? I am trying to read." I could have scowled, ignored him, or given him some rude words. Instead, God softened my heart and I said, "sure, sorry for the noise." I told my girlfriend when I got outside and we both said, "Geesh, how annoyed do we get when someone is talking loudly? I am so embarrassed."

Take the mote out of your own eye before trying to remove the speck from your brother's eye! Matt 7:3

Affirmation: Love is patient, love is kind, love is never rude. I will do unto others as I would have them do unto me. Love covers a multitude of sins.

I expanded the affirmation--I need to recite it several time a day and remind myself that rudeness is not Godly! Love to all, Sister Lisa

Day 18 - The Intimidating Tongue

Day 18 - The Intimidating Tongue

"The Philistine said, 'come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field!'" 1 Sam 17:44

Goliath used name calling, intimidation and threats to scare David, the young sheepherder, before their epic battle. Goliath didn't expect David's reply, "you come against me with sword, and spear and javelin. But I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel whom you have defiled. This day the Lord will hand you over to me and I will strike you down and cut off your head." 1 Sam 17:45-46

The intimidator counts on his victim wilting in the face of a verbal attack. That is why you must (when appropriate) let the intimidator know you will not be oppressed or filled with fear by his threats. Usually an intimidator will back down when you stand-up to the oppression. You must let people know that your only fear is of the Lord in reverence and thankfulness.

God never meant for one person to dominate or intimidate another. In the Garden of Eden, God gave Adam and Eve dominion over the earth, the animals, the plants, fish and fowl--but not over each other. God said, "Be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish, the birds and every other creature on the ground." Gen 1:28

If you are an intimidator, you need to repent and ask God to heal you. You may need to seek professional counseling to uncover the root cause. Many times, intimidators were brought up in chaotic, controlling homes or they lack self-esteem and a sense of worth. Whatever the reason, God can and will heal you! Ask Him, pray, meditate on His Word.

Affirmation: God is in control of the universe. He controls every aspect of my life. Because He has all power, I don't need to control or intimidate another to feel valued.

Amen to that! Sis Lis

Prayer Works!

This post if off the study path...if you need pray please let me know. The blog is open to everyone who wants to read it. Only invitees can post on the site. Since it is a public forum, you may want to leave some details out but I feel that if you post it up here and another Christian "comes across the blog"--their hearts will be led to lift up your request or burden in prayer.

Prayer Request - Please pray for my sons to see and hear God's grace; for their hearts to soften to the Word of God and that people and angels would abound in their paths bringing them love, encouragement and peace. I ask for my heart's desire to be to serve God through faithful study of His Word and fellowshipping with believers in the bonds of peace. Thank you all, Sister Lisa

Day 17 - The Tactless Tongue

Day 17 - The Tactless Tongue



"Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone." Col 4:6



I remember being told that I was tactless when I was in my twenties. Although I thought myself a smart person and lover of words, I had to look-up exactly what that meant: revealing lack of perceptiveness or judgment or finesse; "an inept remark".



Okay, tactlessness has nothing to do with cerebral intelligence. It doesn't mean you are dumb. But it does suggest that you have some social growing -up to do! My impulse was to "speak my mind" and be "truthful". The goal of being right, correct, factual outweighed any consideration of some one's feelings or thoughts. In fact, I really believed that stating the facts was completely appropriate and would be received warmly by all.



Since then I have worked diligently to increase my "perception and judgment" before speaking to others. I have improved over the years and even been complimented on my "ability to be diplomatic" with sticky issues. However, I STILL get occasional comments from friends and co-workers about insensitive remarks. Lord deliver me!



Let's look at a Godly pro at tactfulness in action. Daniel and his three friends faced a dilemma. King Nebuchadnezzar selected several men from Babylon to serve in his court after a three-year training program. The program included a nutritional regimen that violated the men's strict dietary plan. Daniel was able to tactfully avoid eating the non-kosher food. "Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of eunuchs that he might not defile himself." Dan 1:8



Though Daniel had made a decision to not violate kosher law, notice that he requested a special diet from the chief eunuch. He didn't go in with an attitude, he didn't TELL the eunuch that he wouldn't eat the diet. God had favor on Daniel's request and the chief eunuch granted Daniel's request allowing him to eat a vegetarian diet. It is far better to approach a sticky situation in this manner than with a direct, demanding style.



Our communication style is influenced by what we heard growing-up. Between silence and yelling, I didn't always have a great model. Fortunately, my mother drilled me with, "if you can't say anything nice don't say anything at all." This saying is only half correct! We'll talk about that in a later post.



If you do speak with a tactless tongue, repent and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you and cleanse you. Apologize when you offend someone and ask forgiveness. Keep trying, it will happen! Is there ever a time to be 'brutally' honest? God says that grace and truth can exist together, "For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth through Jesus Christ." John 1:17.



Jesus never allowed His graciousness to keep Him from sharing the Truth. Study His words and learn from the Master. Check the intent of your heart before you open your mouth. When you feel a comment on your lips that may be tactless or mean, stop transmission! Let the Holy Spirit guide you into all truth with love and follow His leading. Practice will yield loving results.



Affirmation: My words are seasoned with grace as I speak the truth in love.



Be blessed and full of grace today, Sister Lisa

Day 16 - The Harsh Tongue

Day 16 - The Harsh Tongue OUCH!

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Pro 15:1

Got to love the proverbs! If you read one for each day of the month, you will have read through the whole book 12 times in one year. There is a lot of wisdom there to gain and use.

Have you ever had to tell someone the truth? Did you do it with love or did you tell them harshly? Have you tried to tell someone, softly, that they were wrong, incompetent, or a bad fit for a job? Did they not get it until you just laid it out in plain, non-flowery language?

I've had to do all of these things. Truth telling is good; but HOW we tell it is most important. Proverbs 31:26 says, "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness." Speaking kindly is a core principle of the Proverbs 31 Woman. There is never any justification for being harsh or unkind in our communication.

We must choose words that are warmhearted, understanding and sympathetic. The same mercy and grace that God has shown us is the same grace and mercy with which we must speak. It doesn't mean that we are to just turn away or ignore problems and problem people!

We must always go to God in prayer and ask His guidance and the Holy Spirit to give us the words to heal the situation. God says, "so is my word that goes out from my mouth; it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." Isaiah 55:11.

There are degrees of harshness. Harsh words never die, they impact a person for a lifetime. As I ask God to heal me, use me, clean me up He is revealing so much to me. A lot of the lies I believe about myself are because of harsh words. I remember being called "spastic" as a young girl. I did tend to fall and break things and I just figured that was my fate. I believed that I COULD NOT excel in mechanical things--fixing simple household items, understanding how a mechanical item worked, putting-up simple curtains, etc., etc.

This has manifested itself in many choices I have made in my life. It has caused me to veer in ways I didn't necessarily want to because I could always hear "spastic" in the depth of my mind. Let me tell you--this was a recent discovery by me. You know what I did? I said, 'I am not a spastic; I have the capacity to learn and put together mechanical things. I am not clumsy, I do not fall and break things more than other people do.' After this declaration, I told Ced and he (who has always believed I can DO ANYTHING!!!) encouraged me. I picked up a towel bar that had to be put together and placed over the shower stall--it was sitting there for over a year!

Guess what? I did it! I believed I could and I did it. Hallelujah! The other outcome of being called a 'spastic'? I have a harsh tongue. I have little patience and tolerance when someone can't do something right the first time. I speak harshly when someone asks me something that I believe is so clear! Lord, deliver me from evil and clean my tongue. "He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit is better than he who takes a city." Pro 16:32.

Make a decision today not to cut anymore--once your tongue cuts that branch, it cannot be sown back into the tree of the person who was hurt. By the power of the Holy Spirit, you can heal, you can control, you can be delivered from harshness coming out of your mouth. We are victorious and kindness is part of my character--it is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit living within me.

Affirmation: I open my mouth with wisdom. The law of kindness is on my tongue. Amen

Peace and love and kindness, Sister Lisa

Day 15 - The Know-It-All Tongue

Day 15 - The Know-It-All Tongue

We are half-way through the study and tongue fast. Have you been searching your heart and holding your tongue? This has caused me to pause and reflect on how I use words, how I use my tongue. James was right when he said:

The Tongue
1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.
2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.
3 Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.
4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.
5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!
6 ¶ And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.
7 For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind:
8 but the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Gen. 1.26
10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?
12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.

So back to the know-it-all. Well this is another lesson I can take to heart. Do you know everything? Do you give unsolicited advice? Do you think you are always right (okay, most of the time)? Do you start sentences with "you should..."? I am raising my hand right now!

Emotionally healthy people resent being told what to do and getting unsolicited advice. We must practice giving people the benefit of the doubt in figuring it all out for themselves. So next time you want to give advice to your partner or friend, how about trying "have you considered?". No one wants to be mothered except by their mother!

Though we may know a lot of things; let's let our loved ones know something once in a while. It is so difficult for me sometimes I must bite my tongue and pray. It hurts to not spout out the answer or the advice. Sit on your hands, bite your tongue, hold your breath...let someone else have a chance! This is sound advice straight from God's mouth to our TWO ears..."wise people don't make a show of their knowledge." Pro 12:23. We all know the opposite of a wise person and we certainly don't want to be considered a fool.

On top of repulsing people with your wealth of knowledge; constantly having and giving the answer is certainly a form of pride. God hates pride, in fact He mentions it twice in the sins of abomination.

How do you tame your tongue on this matter? Well, my earlier paragraph about holding your breath, biting your tongue is a great start. Let someone else share and don't say anything about knowing that already or confirming. Say "really? that is interesting." This my dear sisters and brothers in Christ is HUMILITY! Isn't easy is it? Well, God never said the kiln would be lukewarm and we all know that gold cannot be refined with tepid heat.

Another warning--think you are the only one who knows it all? Beware, in some circles and situations there is another one lurking just waiting to cut you down to size. I've done this, Lord forgive me and I've had it done. Either way it is hurtful, sinful and just plain rude. Don't put yourself in that position.

Always maintain "the right size" and that is 1. GOD, the Father, 2. JESUS, the Son, 3. THE HOLY SPIRIT, Our Counselor, 4. Consideration of Unbelievers, 5. Our Loved Ones and then 6. Ourselves. Practice praying, praising or thinking about all those other people before glorying in your own self knowledge. Pretty soon, you'll have a great understanding of what Jesus truly did and how He humbled Himself to the Cross. Praise Him!

Ask more questions than answers you give. Listen twice as much as you talk. Show interest in people even when it is boring. Turn-off your competitive voice and really listen--God will whisper to you in those moments and give you the opportunity to be a good friend and healing presence for people.

Affirmation: I am prudent and therefore do not flaunt my knowledge. Amen! Love Sister Lisa

Day 14 - The Cynical Tongue

Day 14 – The Cynical Tongue

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way is sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.” Psalm 1:1

Oh boy, getting into some territory that I need to clean-up! Never, ever, in my wildest dreams did I think I could become a bitter cynic. It happened and how did it happen? Let’s look at one of the greatest cynics in the Bible.

When David went to see Goliath, he became indignant. He confidently stated that he would personally take care of the uncircumcised Philistine. Circumcision was Gods covenant and protection for the Israelites. David understood that Goliath had no covenant nor protection from God. David was secure in God’s promises. David’s brother, Eliab, didn’t have that confidence in God.

‘Now Eliab his oldest brother heard when he spoke to the men; and Eliab’s anger burned against David and he said, “Why have you come down? And with whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your onsolence and the wickedness of your heart; for you have come down in order to see the battle.” But David said, “What have I done now?’” 1 Sam 17:28-29

Eliab, whose name means ‘God is my father’, scorned David’s confidence and motives with his cynicism. Cynicism is like venom; it poisons the atmosphere. Resorting to this will poison your spirit too and anyone you are around will be infected. Find one cynic in church, at work, at home, and soon anyone who is not confident in God and secure of themselves will start chiming in to the negativity.

God forgive me—I went through a protracted period of this cynicism at work. I just felt overlooked, overworked and undervalued. Normally, my sisters-in-Christ would have buoyed me and prayed for me. But I cut them off and found excuses not to pray. I hung around with people who were just as dissatisfied as I was. We moaned, we groaned, we gossiped, we pontificated “if only”, we hashed and rehashed the past, we just gave up.

Those were not happy times for me and it carried over into my personal life. Husband and children heard all about how bad it was at work how no one appreciated my contribution. Finally, God intervened. It certainly wasn’t what I anticipated and it was a hard lesson to learn.

My dearest friend at work, Mary, suddenly got ill and I took her home. I dropped her at her house assured that she would call her husband. I called and called that night—no answer. The next morning, Bruce, her husband, called to tell me Mary had an aneurysm and would certainly die soon; she died that morning. How utterly devastated, sad, guilty, wretched, wicked and scorned I felt.

Mary always had a smile and a kind word for me. She was my cheerleader and comforter when things went wrong. She refused to let anything get her down and she would cheer me up by saying, “Good morning sunshine” to me everyday. I resolved then that I could no longer blame others and anyway, where had this bitter woman come from anyway?

I retired that cynical tongue. I cooled the toxic relationships and God intervened in those that were difficult for me to give up. I realized my blessings, my life and family, which God was sustaining. The very people I was bitter at were the people who comforted me during my grief. They cared for me and all of my thoughts about them were wrong. Someone once called me “poison” and I was so offended to this day I have not spoken highly of that person. I am convinced I need to make that right with him; God doesn’t make mistakes.

I was fortunate to be asked by Mary’s family to give her eulogy. It was one of the most difficult moments of my life—but I was ready before God because I prayed. I asked Him to speak through me, to soften my heart and open my mind; give me the beautiful words to speak your love and mercy Lord. And Philippians 4:8-9 were what He gave me:

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”

Affirmation: I am blessed because I do not walk in the counsel of the ungodly nor stand in the way of sinners nor sit in the seat of the scornful.

Thank you brothers and sisters in Christ for allowing me to share a part of my heart today and I pray that God engrafts His words and His law into your heart so that you may stand in righteousness, holiness and place of honor in God’s eyes. Sister Lisa