peaglewrite

Our...Father...

2012-01-25T15:09:00.000-05:00

After this manner, therefore pray ye: Our Father, which are in heaven, Hallowed by Thy Name.
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you;
But if ye forgive men not their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses...King James Bible.

Pray, therefore, like this: Our Father Who is in heaven, hallowed (kept holy) be Your Name.
Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven (left, remitted, and let go of the debts, and have given up resentment against) our debtors.
And lead (bring) us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
For if you forgive people their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins, leaving them, letting them go, and giving up resentment], your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
But if you do not forgive others their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins, leaving them, letting them go, and giving up resentment], neither will your Father forgive you your trespasses...Amplified Bible.

Forgive:
to grant pardon for or remission of (an offense, debt, etc.)
to give up all claim on account of
to grant pardon to
to cease to feel resentment against
to pardon and offense or offender
to cease to blame or hold resentment against

Resentment:
the feeling of displeasure or indignation at some act, remark, person, etc., regarded as causing injury or insult.
anger, bitterness, or ill-will

Selah...

You have heard it said...

2012-01-09T10:23:00.000-05:00

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder,^[a] and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ ²² But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause^[b] shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell fire. ²³ Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, ²⁴ leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. ²⁵ Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are on the way with him, lest your adversary deliver you to the judge, the judge hand you over to the officer, and you be thrown into prison. ²⁶ Assuredly, I say to you, you will by no means get out of there till you have paid the last penny.

Adultery in the Heart

²⁷ “You have heard that it was said to those of old,^[c] ‘You shall not commit adultery.’^[d] ²⁸ But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. ²⁹ If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell. ³⁰ And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell.

Marriage Is Sacred and Binding

³¹ “Furthermore it has been said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ ³² But I say to you that whoever divorces his wife for any reason except sexual immorality^[e] causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery.

Jesus Forbids Oaths

³³ “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord.’ ³⁴ But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne; ³⁵ nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. ³⁶ Nor shall you swear by your head, because you cannot make one hair white or black. ³⁷ But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.

Go the Second Mile

³⁸ “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’^[f] ³⁹ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. ⁴⁰ If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. ⁴¹ And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. ⁴² Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.

Love Your Enemies

⁴³ “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor^[g] and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,^[h] ⁴⁵ that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. ⁴⁶ For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? ⁴⁷ And if you greet your brethren^[i] only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors^[j] do so? ⁴⁸ Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.r, ...Matthew 5:21-48 New King James Bible.

Selah...

Salt

2012-01-04T16:57:00.000-05:00

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven...King James Version.

You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste (its strength, its quality), how can its saltness be restored? It is not good for anything any longer but to be thrown out and trodden underfoot by men.

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.

Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.

Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence and your praiseworthy, noble, and good deeds and recognize and honor and praise and glorify your Father Who is in heaven...Amplified Bible.

Selah...

Persecuted

2012-01-01T07:43:00.000-05:00

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
Rejoice, and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in heaven; for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you...King James Version.

Blessed (happy, to be envied and spiritually prosperous - with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of your outward conditions) are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely on My account.
Be glad and supremely joyful, for your reward in heaven is great (strong and intense), for in this same way people persecuted the prophets who were before you...Amplified Bible.

Wow, this might take a double "selah" (pause and think on that)! It's one thing to read this in the bible...it's another to walk it out in our daily walks. And what hurts more than people talking against you...when you don't deserve it?
One thing I do know...because God promises...and because we have experienced the reality of this in our own lives...
But no weapon that is formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue that shall rise against you in judgment you shall show to be in the wrong. This [peace, righteousness, security, triumph over opposition] is the heritage of the servants of the Lord [those in whom the ideal Servant of the Lord is reproduced]; this is the righteousness or the vindication which they obtain from Me [this is that which I impart to them as their justification], says the Lord...Isaiah 54:17, Amplified Bible.

**First 4 beatitudes...initial exercises of the heart, awakened by the Holy Spirit. The next 4 is fruit of the first 4...

Selah...Selah...Selah...

Persecuted

2011-12-28T10:13:00.000-05:00

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake; for theirs is the kingdom of God...King James Version.

Blessed and happy and enviably fortunate and spiritually prosperous (in the state in which the born-again child of God enjoys and finds satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of his outward conditions) are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake (for being and doing right), for theirs is the kingdom of God...Amplified Bible.

...righteous...integrity...equity...justice...straightness...upright...true...sincere... (Strong's Concordance)...

Selah!

A Christmas Note...

2011-12-23T12:04:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas...Seasons Greetings...Happy New Year!!!

Paul and I played Adam and Eve in our Christmas Cantata this year. Thankfully, our costumes were robes instead of fig leaves ;o)...

Changes...changes...changes...it's certainly been a season of changes. I know so very many who have been dealing with this...difficult changes...exciting changes...traumatic changes...some walking through the shadow of the valley of death...life changing changes...health issues...job losses...financial woes...changes...

For Paul and I, this last year and a half has been absolutely so full of changes, that our heads fairly swim on some days. Some literally caught us by surprise...some have been difficult...some traumatic...and some exciting....some leaving us questioning...all of it testing our walk of faith.

Sunday night, during a Christmas communion service, I was overwhelmed with thankfulness. In this season of change, I am so very thankful that God is Faithful and True! Not because I see immediate answers to prayers...not because every path smooths out before us and all is calm again, but because His Word assures me during challenging times.
One of my very favorite verses is......for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not]!...Hebrews 13:5...Amplified Bible.
Psalm 91 is also a passage that I take to my heart on a regular basis...Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him; I will set him on high, because he knows and understands My name [has a personal knowledge of My mercy, love and kindness, trusts and relies on Me, KNOWING I will never forsake him, no never].
He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.
With long life will I satisfy him and show him My salvation....verses 14-16...

In these seasons of change...during the holiday seasons and beyond...may we come to KNOW with a deeper understanding that He will never forsake us...never relax His hold on us...that He will answer...that He IS Faithful and True...

God's blessings as the new year rolls in...

Paul and Patti \0/

Peacemakers

2011-12-22T07:09:00.000-05:00

Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called the children of God...King James Version.

Blessed (enjoying enviable happiness, spiritually prosperous - with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God!...Amplified Bible.

Pure in Heart

2011-12-19T13:04:00.000-05:00

Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God...King James Version.

Blessed (happy, enviably fortunate, and spiritually prosperous - possessing the happiness produced by the experience of God's favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His grace, regardless of their outward condition) are the pure in heart, for they shall see God!...Amplified Bible.

...pure in heart - undivided affections...

Selah!

Mercy

2011-12-16T12:16:00.000-05:00

Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy...King James Version.

Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous----with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy!...Amplified Bible.

Hunger

2011-12-14T09:55:00.000-05:00

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be filled...King James Version.

Blessed and fortunate and happy and spiritually prosperous (in that state in which the born-again child of God enjoys His favor and salvation) are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God) for they shall be completely satisfied!...Amplified Bible.

SELAH...

The Meek

2011-12-10T07:35:00.000-05:00

Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth...King James Version.

Blessed (happy, blithesome, joyous, spiritually prosperous - with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the meek (the mild, patient, long-suffering), for they shall inherit the earth...Amplified Bible.

Selah...pause and calmly think of that...

Those that Mourn

2011-12-08T12:19:00.000-05:00

Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted...King James Version.

Blessed and enviably happy [with a happiness produced by the experience of God's favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His matchless grace] are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted!...Amplified Bible.

Selah...

Poor in Spirit

2011-12-05T08:25:00.000-05:00

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven...King James Bible

Blessed (happy, to be envied and spiritually prosperous - with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward condition) are the poor in spirit (the humble, who rate themselves insignificant) for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!... Amplified Bible

Selah...(pause and think of that)...

Familiarity Breeds Contempt

2011-10-28T09:16:00.000-05:00

This well known phrase actually finds it's origin in Aesop's Fables - The Fox and the Lion. When a fox first sees a lion, it runs away frightened. The next time he sees the lion, he stops at a distance and watches him. Next time, he walks right up to the lion and passes him, asking him how his family is and when they might see each other again...then turning his tail, he walks away; familiarity breeds contempt.

I remember hearing the phrase used a number of times over the years, having a basic understanding that the better you get to know someone, the more you will start seeing their faults and have a harder time living, working with or being around them. It has been called a proverb...the concept that familiarity breeds contempt has been used in the business world...in social settings...and is generally an acceptable "rule of conduct/thought" in our society.

While there are any number of topics can be pointed out from this maxim, I want to focus on one thing today...

James 3:2-10, Amplified Bible...

For we all often stumble and fall and offend in many things. And if anyone does not offend in speech [never says the wrong things], he is a fully developed character and a perfect man, able to control his whole body and to curb his entire nature.

If we set bits in the horses' mouths to make them obey us, we can turn their whole bodies about.

Likewise, look at the ships; though they are so great and are driven by rough winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the impulse of the helmsman determines.

Even so the tongue is a little member, and it can boast of great things. See how much wood or how great a forest a tiny spark can set ablaze!

And the tongue is a fire. [The tongue is a] world of wickedness set among our members, contaminating and depraving the whole body and setting on fire the wheel of birth (the cycle of man's nature), being itself ignited by hell (Gehenna).

For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea animal, can be tamed and has been tamed by human genius (nature).

But the human tongue can be tamed by no man. It is a restless (undisciplined, irreconcilable) evil, full of deadly poison.

With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse men who were made in God's likeness!

OUT OF THE SAME MOUTH COME FORTH BLESSING AND CURSING...THESE...THINGS,..MY...BRETHREN...OUGHT...NOT...TO...BE...SO.........

So today, I ask you...what is more familiar than family??? Husbands and wives....siblings...extended family relationships....cousins...aunts...uncles...grandparents...in-laws....out-laws...family...

EVERYONE struggles with their tongue!!! On some days, it would be better if we used duct tape over our mouths! It is called life...and we sometimes daily have to work things out. A continued, fervent prayer of mine is found in Psalm 141:3...Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth. Keep watch over the door of my lips... (spiritual duct tape)!!!! But sadly, oftentimes in the struggles of life, familiarity breeds contempt in family units and becomes a way of life. Do family dynamics excuse us from James 3? How often we go to church and put on our social persona of friendliness, handshaking and hugs, only to return home to the daily grind of familial relationships...and familiarity.

So...let us seize and hold fast and retain without wavering the hope we cherish and confess and our acknowledgement of it, for He Who promised is reliable (sure) and faithful to His Word.
And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities,
Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching...Hebrews 10:23-25, Amplified Bible.

Well now, that just talks about church....really??

Let us be diligent to pray..set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth...

Don't Tremble

2011-10-01T17:36:00.001-05:00

I belong to a knitting group that meets at a coffee shop on Saturday afternoon. It is such an enjoyable time of camaraderie, relaxation, and a shared passion for all things fiber...gorgeous yarns...stunning colors...fun projects.. As we sat knitting and chatting, a woman walked in and looked over at the far wall, where a huge blackboard displays all types of graffiti, drawings and sayings. As the woman walked by, I pretty much forgot about her and kept on knitting and chatting. At one point, however, I happened to turn in my chair a bit and saw her erasing a large section on the blackboard.

Today, I had quite a number of things on my mind...challenges that Paul and I are facing...things coming up in the weeks ahead....concerns on my mind....prayers in my heart...

A little while later, I saw that woman walking out the door, and remembered that she had been over by the blackboard....so I turned to see what she had done. I cannot write verbatim what she wrote, but this is the scripture: Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the One who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you...Deuteronomy 31:6.

As my mind wandered and tried to fret about what we are dealing with, I was also remembering that He Who promises IS Faithful and True...was actually thinking along those lines when the woman came in and wrote those words. I do not believe in chance where God is concerned. He spoke to our situation today in a coffee shop, by way of a stranger...

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

And lean not on your own understanding;

In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He shall direct your paths...Proverbs 3:5-6

Addition: As we sat in church this morning, I read Deuteronomy 31:6 again, and saw the 8th verse... now remembering the rest of what the woman wrote. But this time, I'd like to share both verses from the Amplified Bible...

Be strong, courageous, and firm; fear not nor be in terror before them, for it is the Lord your God Who goes with you; He will not fail you or forsake you...

It is the Lord Who goes before you; He will [march] with you; He will not fail you or let you go or forsake you; [let there be no cowardice or flinching, but] fear not, neither become broken [in spirit] (depressed, dismayed, and unnerved with alarm)...

Wow...all I can say is SELAH (pause and think on that)...

Angel Food

2011-09-26T14:10:00.000-05:00

There are days...when certain things just strike your heart, you know? Yesterday, I saw a phrase in a book I am reading...' "Men ate the bread of angels," was how the psalmist described it'. I thought and mused, mused and thought about this passage found in Psalms 78:25.

I have said this before, but years ago, I only read the New Testament...because I did not understand the Old, nor did I have a desire to understand. But a day came when I felt the strongest need to "camp" in the Old Testament. And to say it plainly...we, as a human race, have not changed. My personal observation is that there is a theme woven through the pages...God's continual deliverance of a people who quickly and easily ran after false gods...who never stopped complaining, even after God wrought mighty miracles...and those who continued to forget that He Who promises IS Faithful and True. And again, we, as a human race, have not changed.

Hebrews 13 begins with instructions for believers...love for fellow believers...hold marriage in honor...about character and morality and greed. But in verse 5...I LOVE this part of the verse...for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]...

It goes on to say...Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is [always] the same, yesterday, today, [yes] and forever (to the ages)...(Hebrews 13:8, Amplified Bible).

I strongly encourage you to read Psalm 78 for yourselves...may God's Spirit speak to each heart...

2011-09-16T08:59:00.001-05:00

Jude

Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ (the Messiah), and brother of James, [writes this letter] to those who are called (chosen), dearly loved by God the Father and separated (set apart) and kept for Jesus Christ.

May mercy, [soul] peace, and love be multiplied to you.

Beloved, my whole concern was to write to you in regard to our common salvation. [But] I found it necessary and was impelled to write you and urgently appeal to and exhort [you] to contend for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints [the faith which is that sum of Christian belief which was delivered verbally to the holy people of God].

For certain men have crept in stealthily [gaining entrance secretly by a side door]. Their doom was predicted long ago, ungodly (impious, profane) persons who pervert the grace (the spiritual blessing and favor) of our God into lawlessness and wantonness and immorality and disown and deny our sole Master and Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).

Now I want to remind you, though you were fully informed once for all, that though the Lord [at one time] delivered a people out of the land of Egypt, He subsequently destroyed those [of them] who did not believe [who refused to adhere to, trust in, and rely upon Him].

And angels who did not keep (care for, guard, and hold to) their own first place of power but abandoned their proper dwelling place - these He has reserved in custody in eternal chains (bonds) under the thick gloom of utter darkness until the judgment and doom of the great day.

[The wicked are sentenced to suffer] just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the adjacent towns - which likewise gave themselves over to impurity and indulged in unnatural vice and sensual perversity - are laid out [in plain sight] as an exhibit of perpetual punishment [to warm] of everlasting fire. [Gen.19.]

Nevertheless, in like manner, these dreamers also corrupt the body, scorn and reject authority and government and revile and libel and scoff at [heavenly] glories (the glorious ones).

But when [even] the archangel Michael, contending with the devil, judicially argued (disputed) about the body of Moses, he dared not [presume to] bring an abusive condemnation against him, but [simply] said, The Lord rebuke you! [Zech.3:2]

But these men revile (scoff and sneer at) anything they do not happen to be acquainted with and do not understand; and whatever they do understand physically [that which they know by mere instinct] like irrational beasts - by these they corrupt themselves and are destroyed (perish).

Woe to them! For they have run riotously in the way of Cain, and have abandoned themselves for the sake of gain (it offers them, following) the error of Balaam, and have perished in rebellion [like that] of Korah! [Gen.4:3-8; Num. 16:22-24].

These are hidden reefs (elements of danger) in your love feasts, where they boldly feast sumptuously [carousing together in your midst], without scruples, providing for themselves [alone]. They are clouds without water, swept along by the winds; trees, without fruit at the late autumn gathering time - twice (doubly) dead, [lifeless and] plucked up by the roots;

Wild waves of the sea, flinging up the foam of their own shame and disgrace; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of eternal darkness has been reserved forever.

It was of these people, moreover, that Enoch in the seventh [generation] from Adam prophesied when he said, Behold, the Lord comes with His myriads of holy ones (ten thousands of His saints)

To execute judgment upon all and to convict all the impious (unholy ones) of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed [in such an] ungodly [way], and of all the severe (abusive, jarring) things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.

These are inveterate murmurers (grumblers) who complain [of their lot in life], going after their own desires [controlled by their passions]; their talk is boastful and arrogant, [and they claim to] admire men's persons and pay people flattering compliments to gain advantage.

But you must remember, beloved, the predictions which were made by the apostles (the special messengers) of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).

They told you beforehand, In the last days (in the end time) there will be scoffers (who seek to gratify their own unholy desires], following after their own ungodly passions.

It is these who are [agitators] setting up distinctions and causing divisions - merely sensual [creatures, carnal, worldly-minded people], devoid of the [Holy] Spirit and destitute of any higher spiritual life.

But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith [make progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying the Holy Spirit;

Guard and keep yourselves in the love of God; expect and patiently wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah)- [which will bring you] unto life eternal.

And refute [so as to] convict some who dispute with you, and on some have mercy who waver and doubt.

[Strive to] save others, snatching [them] out of [the] fire; on others take pity [but with fear, loathing even the garment spotted by the flesh and polluted by their sensuality. [Zech. 3:2-4]

Now to Him Who is able to keep you without stumbling or slipping or falling, and to present [you] unblemished (blameless and faultless) before the presence of His glory in triumphant joy and exultation [with unspeakable, ecstatic delight] -

To the one only God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory (splendor), majesty, might and dominion, and power and authority, before all time and now and forever (unto all the ages of eternity). Amen (so be it).

[Amplified Version Bible]

My Help...

2011-08-27T19:04:00.000-05:00

I will lift up my eyes to the hills...
from whence comes my help?
My help comes from the Lord,
Who made heaven and earth.

He will not allow your foot to be moved;
He Who keeps you will not slumber.
Behold, He Who keeps Israel
shall neither slumber nor sleep.

The Lord is your keeper;
the Lord is your shade at your right hand.
The sun shall not strike you by day,
nor the moon by night.

The Lord shall preserve you from all evil;
He shall preserve your soul.
The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in
from this time forth and forevermore...
Psalm 121

Don't you love "nuggets"?

2011-08-19T10:27:00.000-05:00

While in the process of re-arranging and re-vamping some things, we have decided to keep peaglewrite operative, alongside our website www.peaglej.com. After a much needed sabbatical, it's time to write...

Now, on to the "nuggets"...

This morning, I was reading in Zechariah. I have been systematically working my way through the Old Testament again, so this passage was not new. Yet, I just LOVE how you can read something several times, and the Holy Spirit illuminates different aspects of what you are reading...just when you need it! Today was one of those times.
I remember a song from years ago that we sang in church..."It's not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit saith the Lord of hosts...it's not by might...nor by power...but by My Spirit saith the Lord. This mountain shall be removed...this mountain shall be removed...this mountain, shall be removed...by My Spirit, saith the Lord."

My favorite bible version to read is the Amplified Bible. I love the "thesaurus" type definitions of words that really helps to broaden my understanding. That is how I found my "nugget" this morning...

Starting at the end of verse 6, chapter 4..."Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit [of Whom the oil is a symbol], says the Lord of hosts.
"For who are you, O great mountain [of human obstacles]?"....... from Zechariah 4:6&7.

Oh what a nugget!! My mind immediately thought of different situations that we find ourselves in...trials and tribulations...sometimes pressures upon pressures...that seem like mountains in our path. And when we realize and remember that God is in control (if we let Him)..we can look at these situations and say, "Who are you, o great mountain?"

What an encouragement in the face of life's turmoils and difficulties..."who are you?"...

Our New Website

2009-04-07T18:26:00.002-05:00

I want to announce that we have a new ministry website with a blog on it...so from now on, any blog posts will be on our website...which can be found at www.peaglej.com and our blog is still called peaglewrite...

Guard Your Heart...

2009-02-25T11:30:00.005-05:00

As the Spring of 2009 approaches, the Lord is impressing this passage strongly for those who will listen...

My son, attend to My words; consent and submit to My sayings.

Let them not depart from your sight; keep them in the center of your heart.

For they are life to those who find them, healing and health to all their flesh.

Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.

Put away from you false and dishonest speech, and willful and contrary talk put far from you.

Let your eyes look right on [with fixed purpose], and let your gaze be straight before you.

Consider well the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established and ordered aright.

Turn not aside to the right hand or to the left; remove your feet from evil...Proverbs 4:20-27 (Amplified Bible).

2008-12-14T20:38:00.003-05:00

Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Let your heart be light
From now on our troubles will be out of sight...
New Unemployment Claims Reach 26-Year High...USA Today 12/12/2008

Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Make your Yule tide gay
From now on our troubles will be miles away....
Senate GOP Puts Brakes On Bailout...The Washington Times...12/11/2008

Here we are as in olden days
Happy golden days of yore
Faithful friends who are near to us
Gather near to us once more...
And Now For A World Government...Financial Times 12/8/2008

Through the years we all will be together
If the fates allow
Hang a shining star upon the highest bow...
Iranian VP Calls For Israel's Destruction...Ynet News.com 12/9/2008

...and have yourself a merry little Christmas now...
US Faces Deep Problems OECD Says...BBC News 12/9/2008

Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved...Acts 4:12

Jesus!!

On the Election...

2008-11-07T12:03:00.004-05:00

Last week (a week before the election), the Lord put a passage of scripture in my spirit. I read it and brewed on it...and knew who would win the election because of what it said...

When Samuel was old, he made his sons judges over Israel.

Now the name of his firstborn was Joel and the name of his second, Abjah. They were judges in Beersheba.

His sons did not walk in his ways, but turned aside after gain, took bribes, and perverted justice.

All the elders of Israel assembled and came to Samuel at Ramah.

And said to him, Behold, you are old, and our sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint us a king to rule over us like all the other nations.

But it displeased Samuel when they said, Give us a king to govern us. And Samuel prayed to the Lord.

AND THE LORD SAID TO SAMUEL, HEARKEN TO THE VOICE OF THE PEOPLE IN ALL THEY SAY TO YOU; FOR THEY HAVE NOT REJECTED YOU, BUT THEY HAVE REJECTED ME, THAT I SHOULD BE KING OVER THEM.

According to all the works which they have done since I brought them up out of Egypt even to this day, forsaking Me and serving other gods, so they also do to you.

So listen now to their voice, only solemnly warn them and show them the ways of the king who shall reign over them.

So Samuel told all the words of the Lord to the people who asked of him a king.

And he said, There will be the ways of the king who shall reign over you; he will take your sons and appoint them to his chariots and to be his horsemen and to run before his chariots.

He will appoint them for himself to be commanders over thousands and over fifties, and some
to plow his ground and to reap his harvest and to make his implements of war and equipment for his chariots.

He will take your daughters to be perfumers, cooks, and bakers.

He will take your fields, your vineyards, and your olive orchards, even the best of them, and give them to his servants.

He will take a tenth of your grain and of your vineyards, and give it to his officers and to his servants.

He will take your men and women servants and the best of your cattle and your donkeys and put them to work.

He will take a tenth of your flocks, and you yourselves shall be his slaves.

In that day you will cry out because of your king you have chosen for yourselves, but the Lord will not hear you then.

Nevertheless, the people refused to listen to the voice of Samuel, and they said, NO! WE WILL HAVE A KING OVER US...

That we also may be like the nations, and that our king may govern us and go out before us and fight our battles.

Samuel heard all the people's words and repeated them in the Lord's ears.

And the Lord said to Samuel, Hearken to their voice and appoint them a king...
2 Samuel 8

Brothers and Sisters...for such a time as this, let us "brace up your minds, be sober (circumspect, morally alert) set your hope wholly and unchangeably on the grace (divine favor) that is coming to you when Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is revealed..." 1 Peter 1:13

Are you ready?

2008-10-21T09:07:00.002-05:00

I have had 3 dreams now about Jesus returning...the message is "I'm on My way....what are you going to do about it?" The message continues to grow...He is on His way...we know not when...but be assured that He will come...and is your heart yielded and ready? He is, at this moment, sifting hearts...

The Parable of The Road

2008-05-13T15:15:00.003-05:00

The Parable of The Road

There once was a builder who built a road. He closely studied his plans and specs, beginning by removing the old, rotted, unstable soil. Load after load, wet and rotted soil was removed. Then, trucks began to bring in fresh soil, at times mixing it with a special substance that would help harden the soil to make a firm foundation.
Bulldozers spread the dirt out, arranging and forming. Next came the road grater, smoothing, compacting; finally the roller rolled over and over, pressing, hardening. Dust would blow to and fro and a water truck came, sprinkling drops of water to blanket the dust. Day after day they repeated this action until a road emerged…new and stable…ready for use…

My husband, Paul, has been a builder for more than 45 years. He has worked just about every facet of the building industry, and now works as a Construction Superintendent building hospitals. It was not until recently that I really began to see the parallel of building and our spiritual walk in the Lord. There is the basic, obvious analogy that we understand…lay a good foundation…follow the blueprints…build according to code…but should we not strive to look past the obvious to find the deeper truths? Jesus often taught in parables, seemingly simple stories…Who hath ears to hear, let him hear - The Amplified Bible says it this way…He who has ears [to hear], let him be listening and let him consider and perceive and comprehend by hearing. However, many did not understand the depth and truths of the parables. We, ourselves, often read or hear a thing...we say we comprehend and have a grasp of it…we can memorize scripture, quoting chapter and verse…we take it and turn it into a mystic, goose bumped “prophetic” experience…write volumes and bestsellers about it…create divisive doctrines over it…yet have we really waited until the Holy Spirit speaks the deeper truth to our hearts wherein change occurs that brings glory to God?

At the present time, Paul and I are in Central Arkansas, south of Little Rock. He is building a Medical Wellness Center which will house exercise rooms, racquetball courts, offices and a pharmacy. On this particular job, there have been soil issues. When the property was purchased, it was all woods. After clearing the lot and the digging began, they discovered that the top layer of soil was sand with rotted vegetation. The deeper layers were wet with clay and water that did not drain. But at a depth of about 5 feet, there was suitable clay to build upon.
And so began the process of taking out the bad soil and bringing in the new. This is a costly task where every truckload must be accounted for. And as Paul has many details to attend to each day, he hired me to check the trucks in and out, signing each ticket. Every day there are several dump trucks taking out the rotted soil, bringing in the good soil. The track hoe digging, heavy equipment moving, dumping, rearranging, building.

On a particular morning, I was sitting at the entrance to the job site waiting for trucks to arrive, when the bulldozer came over to the entrance. The operator began directing the dump trucks to specific spots to dump their load, then he would begin to rough in and shape the new road. The specifications called for an incline, grades and curves to allow water to drain without ponding. Old soil had already been removed so load after load of new soil was brought in. As well as the good soil, they brought in a product called BAB. BAB is a by-product of industry that uses coal. After coal is burned, BAB is what is left over and when mixed with water, it hardens. So BAB was brought in to be mixed with the good soil in some areas and in other areas it would lay right on top of the dirt to create a hard surface - as in roads and parking lots.
In this process, all the material that is replacing the old soil is installed in layers. And every layer, by itself, is prepared for the next layer to go on top. If the layers are not prepared one at a time, then the layer that finishes the top, even though it may seem hard and stable, will eventually break down because the underlying foundation wasn’t prepared to hold the layers above.

It was during this process that day that I really began to truly see and understand the parallel. Over the past several years, Paul and I have been in positions where we have felt shaken to our very foundation. What we once thought “was” has been re-evaluated and redefined. Old attitudes and habits, wounds and perceptions had to be dealt with; beliefs and doctrines needed God’s definition and renewal. And it came and comes through many different ways, through many different vehicles. And each one shook us, leaving us at first, bewildered, then humbled and in awe of how God works, and finally, changed.

So, that day, dump trucks came, load after load full of good soil. The bull dozer driver began roughing in and shaping the road according to the stakes with markers along the sides. He would build more in one area to create the incline and curves…load upon load the dump trucks rolled in…loud and slamming the tailgates as the dirt poured out…dust blowing everywhere…over in another area, a parking lot was being formed…the road grater rolled over and over, smoothing as he went…there was constant movement and change and pressure…load after load…day after day…forming…compacting…smoothing. As I sat watching this, a different vehicle came down the newly formed road. I literally felt the earth shaking and vibrating. What an odd sensation. The vehicle is called a sheep foot roller and it was compacting…vibrating…pressure, pressure, pressure…at one point the dust was getting bad…a water truck came, sprinkling water upon the dusty road…soothing…you could almost sense the relief of the dust now settled…and what got my attention the most was the vibrating earth…being shaken and formed…with each new layer the roller compacted and shook all the material together to make it hard…a new road formed under pressure…being readied for use…

He who has ears [to hear], let him be listening and let him consider and perceive and comprehend by hearing...

A Christmas Message

2006-12-17T12:51:00.000-05:00

She walked out into the night...staring up into the stars...stopping...looking...searching...waiting...away from the lights and ribbons...stockings hung on the fireplace...presents under the tree...carols and cookies...lists to be completed...Christmas cards needing to be sent...packages yet to be mailed...she breathes a sigh...a burning in her heart...stars shining brightly above her...fleeting thoughts of parties to attend...gatherings of friends and loved ones...yet in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the season...she waits...
Her heart is strangely stilled as the Father speaks...words of comfort...the Spirit of Peace..."Speak daughter; tell them."...a message still unspoken...

If you will have the courage in this coming year...to allow God the Father, through Jesus Christ, His Son, by His Holy Spirit...to take away what He deems necessary to take away...a circumcision of the heart...He WILL show Himself to you as...HE WHO PROMISES IS FAITHFUL AND TRUE...in a way you have yet to understand...and the fruit will be a thankfulness that mere words cannot define.

She took one last look at the stars...it seemed almost as if they were twinkling brighter just for her...and she turned, walking back into her home...a heart purposed to speak a promise of God...because her heart, as well...was so very thankful...that mere words could not define...
(Patti Campbell-Jensvold, Christmas 2006).

The Lord bless thee and keep thee; the Lord make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee and give thee peace...Numbers 6:24-25.

Through Their Eyes

2006-10-02T10:24:00.000-05:00

One day, while visiting with a precious friend, I observed how she struggled with the effects of criticism which had come against her in her lifetime. The Lord began to speak to me of how we see ourselves through others' eyes, the lasting effects and the snare of the enemy of our souls. And this is not an isolated incident, nor is it something that affects only a few..for it touches every life...we have all done it...we have all felt it.

The bible says...But the human tongue can be tamed by no man. It is a restless (undisciplined, irreconcilable) evil, full of deadly poison...with it we bless the Lord and Father and with it we curse men who were made in God's likeness...out of the same mouth come forth blessing and cursing...these things, my brethren, ought not to be so...(James 3:8-10 Ampified Bible).

Father, may we see through Your eyes...

The words came fast...some cloaked...some sharp...
...always sure to criticize
...my looks...my choices...
my ways...my life...all filtered through their eyes.

"Too outspoken...never listens...too independent...
different from us...that's where the problem lies."
...but truth be known...the things they judged...
were filtered through their eyes.

With wounded heart...emotions scarred...
relief is what I sought...
for through their eyes...I saw myself...
in shades of what they thought.

Uncertainty...fear of failure...a chip on my shoulder...
emotions to and fro...
unworthiness...desires waiting to be filled...
"I'll never be good enough, isn't that so?"

And so began the years of anger...hate...
and self contempt...
need...rejection...this war inside...constant...
leaving me spent.

I played the game...a smile on my face...
being friendly and sure to please...
but this pain inside...isolation...keeping distant...
often brought me to my knees.

"What is wrong with me...God are You watching?"...
deep sadness in my heart...
going here...going there...joining in among the others...
feeling separate...never a part.

And then one day I turned and heard His voice...
"My child, I AM Love...
You look at yourself through others' eyes...
instead from heaven above.

"Often through their eyes that see...themselves...
are full of scars...
they too have been judged by someone else...
wounded...emotions marred.

"But He was wounded for our transgressions...
He was bruised for our iniquity (Isaiah 53:5)
For My Son brought hope and healing...
when He hung upon that tree.

"Yes, I AM Jehova-ropheka...(Exodus 15:26)
and the healing for your heart...
I will never leave you...I won't forsake you...
My Spirit will never depart...

"if you will put your hand in My hand...
and trust Me with your life...
I will teach you how to walk in peace...
laying aside pain and strife.

"For I AM your God and your Creator...
and I fashioned you out of My heart...
your personality...your looks...your family...your days...
this in My plan...you are a part.

"I have loved you with an everlasting love...(Jeremiah 31:3)
now child, look to heaven above...
if you will change your focus from this world to Me...
I will fill you with My Love.

"I AM the Way...the Truth...and the Life...
through My eyes, there is freedom from pain...
I AM reaching out My hand to you...
trust Me...you will never be the same."

Grandchildren

2006-10-01T10:51:00.000-05:00

Looking on with wonder
singing, dancing
laughter and tears
fresh slates to write on
hearts to mold
beautiful innocence
unconditional love
stirring my emotions...
- a heart that grew - .

Tears

2006-08-07T09:35:00.000-05:00

*There was a time when I was unable to cry. I could rant and rave and explode in bursts of rage, but tears were scarce. Oh, I did have a few pent-up torrents, but my tears were essentially dry.

*There was a day when God moved by complete Mercy...setting me free from chains of the past. I did not deserve it, did nothing to earn it; God decided - I was new!

*There was a release that caused my tears to flow...great and deep cleansing tears - bringing understanding, freedom, love, forgiveness, healing. First, He touched my heart - next, He touched my past - then, He touched my unshed tears...a Balm in Gilead.

*There was a praise that came in tears - a heart humbled and clean. I could not share of His Mercy without tears; my praise came through many heartfelt tears of gratitude.

*There was a call to walk His path, to lay down my understandings and definitions; to allow Him to strip away attitudes and traditions and fears; a re-alignment of me...bringing tears of confusion, tears of choice, a complete surrender when it made no sense...tears of rejections..tears of isolations and loneliness...even tears of anger.

*There was an occasion where a person spoke a scripture over us - Psalm 126:5...those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. I did not "connect" with it at that time, but marked the date and passage in my bible...thinking on it occasionally.

*There was a battle to be waged...that of Truth versus what we know...His heart burdens spoken...words piercing...the calling out as a watchman...anger stirred...tears flooding my days.

*There was a day of standing; "God, are You sure?"...the full armor of God in place...His Word and Voice ablaze in my heart...the battles raging, with doubts and fears assailing. I had thoughts of my past, trying to revisit, to affirm what they say. The tears seemed endless..."Father, how can this be?"

*There was an answer...His Word fulfilled...they that sow in tears SHALL reap in joy...causing such exquisite relief...Truth realized...literally standing and watching as He answers prayer, in His timing and His way...oh, who can pen such words to express a Father, Who is Faithful and True...a Savior, Who through His sufferings brings such provision...His Holy Spirit, leading and guiding us into all Truth...my words fail, yet He never fails! And the tears begin to fall...

2006-07-21T07:05:00.000-05:00

The following is a birthday tribute for my Dad's 75th birthday...

A Talk

July 18, 2006

He looked into the mirror

to shave the stubble on his chin.

He draws a breath, a rugged sigh,

"Lord, it's me again!"

Another day is starting,

the thoughts begin to stray.

I wonder what will be in store,

and what will come my way?"

He goes outside to do his chores,

but mostly just to pray;

sitting down...his favorite spot...

he prepares for what he'll say.

The Lord speaks suddenly to his heart,

"Son, just please be still.

I have some things to say to you;

please listen, if you will.

"Seventy-five years ago,

My plans for you began.

And now as you sit before Me,

there are things to understand.

"Life is not the sum total

of your life's mistakes.

It's not success, nor where you failed,

not whether you're small or great.

"It's not your heartaches, it's not your joys,

nor accomplishments to behold.

Neither is it a series of events

to remember when you are old.

"For life is a gift I gave you;

I fashioned you with My heart.

I had a plan of you in mind;

these gifts did I impart...

"A man of convictions, a man of dreams,

dependable, resilient and strong,

a giver, a doer, a loyal friend,

standing firm when things go wrong.

"I made you a dreamer, a wanderer too,

yet a man who gets things done,

sometimes stern, sometimes tender,

a deep capacity to love."

And so he sits and thinks about

all the Lord has said.

He knows the talk is not quite done,

yet thoughts run through his head.

Before his mind could bring up thoughts

of memories long ago,

the Lord broke through and spoke again;

"Here is what you need to know...

"The day you bowed your heart

and asked Me to forgive,

that is when I cleansed you through,

and you began to live.

"For every man's a sinner,

and every man is flesh.

But when a man bows his heart,

My Spirit comes afresh.

"And now these gifts I gave you

will reflect My Son;

walking in the path I choose,

a servant you've become.

"Now serve Me with your whole heart;

don't look back, nor left or right.

Always keep your eyes fixed on Me,

for that is My delight!

"Don't let regrets fill your mind

or cause your heart to stray.

Just have faith and walk with Me,

I'll show you the way."

As the talk came to its end

he wiped a tear away.

His heart felt light and full of hope;

he knew how he would pray.

"Father, up in heaven,

I thank You for Your Son,

Who shed His blood on the cross,

so that we could be one.

"Thank You for forgiveness

and a brand new start.

I put my hope and trust in You;

I'll serve You with my heart."

And so the talk concluded;

he went about his day.

But his heart would always ponder,

all the Lord did say.

Patti Ann Campbell-Jensvold

July 9, 2006

Happy 75th birthday Dad!

2006-07-20T13:28:00.000-05:00

I have created this blog to post writings...I hope you will enjoy and be ministered to...