Good morning,
Drinking a little Door County Apple Cobbler Coffee this morning. My apologies for the sporadic blog updates lately. Technical difficulties and a death in the family have altered my schedule. We will be back to normal in a few days.
— Galatians 5:22-23 —
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
I love reading the verses above. As we launch into December we will shop, decorate, eat, travel and share gifts or cards..
My challenge for us today is to STOP right now, two days before December and look at our schedule and say. But where is Christ in all this? Christmas does not have to be a hassle. It should be a time of "Fruit of the Womb". Yes that little baby boy was sent that we can have eternal life in Him.
With Jesus as our Savior and Lord we have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. If we are to enjoy the "fruits of the Spirit" we need to take time to walk in the Spirit. Slow down, and let this be a Spirit led Christmas Season. You might be surprised to find that this was the best one ever!
God bless,
Marty
Friday, November 30, 2012
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Heart Transplant
Good Morning,
Pretty cold here in Wisconsin today. My coffee cup is filled with Door County Cherry Creme Coffee.
Just a little trip back into history.
Groote Schuur Hospital was placed centre stage in the world's spotlight when Professor Christiaan Barnard performed the first human heart transplant on the third of December 1967.
Heart transplants have been taking place now for 45 years. Many times over these surgeries have given new life to someone.
Ezekiel 36:26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.
God is also in the business of heart transplants. He takes even the hardest of hearts and transplants a new one spiritually. The heart is the spiritual center of every person. When God's Spirit becomes the center of peoples lives, Scripture says they are "born again". The new heart gets a new start.
A loving person where there was an angry mean person before.
A sober person where there once was a drunkard.
A caring and unselfish person where there once was a self centered and selfish person.
A patient person where there once was an over anxious person.
A servant where there once was a ruthless tyrant.
Only the Spirit of God can perform a transplant like those listed above. No self effort can jump start a dead life. Only God's gift of His presence can jump start a heart into a permanent change.
In order to receive a new heart from God one must consent to the change and allow the Great Physician to do His work on the heart of stone. What do you say? How about surrendering the part of your heart that needs a change? Allow God in to heal your heart and help it to beat for Him and others.
God bless,
Marty
Pretty cold here in Wisconsin today. My coffee cup is filled with Door County Cherry Creme Coffee.
Just a little trip back into history.
Groote Schuur Hospital was placed centre stage in the world's spotlight when Professor Christiaan Barnard performed the first human heart transplant on the third of December 1967.
Heart transplants have been taking place now for 45 years. Many times over these surgeries have given new life to someone.
Ezekiel 36:26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.
God is also in the business of heart transplants. He takes even the hardest of hearts and transplants a new one spiritually. The heart is the spiritual center of every person. When God's Spirit becomes the center of peoples lives, Scripture says they are "born again". The new heart gets a new start.
A loving person where there was an angry mean person before.
A sober person where there once was a drunkard.
A caring and unselfish person where there once was a self centered and selfish person.
A patient person where there once was an over anxious person.
A servant where there once was a ruthless tyrant.
Only the Spirit of God can perform a transplant like those listed above. No self effort can jump start a dead life. Only God's gift of His presence can jump start a heart into a permanent change.
In order to receive a new heart from God one must consent to the change and allow the Great Physician to do His work on the heart of stone. What do you say? How about surrendering the part of your heart that needs a change? Allow God in to heal your heart and help it to beat for Him and others.
God bless,
Marty
Monday, November 26, 2012
Fishing Lures 11/26/2012
Good morning! Here we go again with a New Monday. I am drinking a hot cup of Door County Apple Cobbler Coffee and headed to work.
I have started my Christmas shopping. I can't say that I am fond of it. I do however need to purchase a gift for a fellow sportsman. This fella likes to fish. So off I went to the Sporting Goods store to browse. So many fishing lures to choose from. One advertisement for a lure stated " guaranteed to make them bite". I thought to myself now that's a bait to have.
Today I want us to think about this week. Someone will toss a "bait" our way this week. This bait is designed to get us to open our mouths and say something we later will wish we had not said.
"People are like fish. Neither would get into trouble if they just kept their mouths shut."
Don't fall for the bait. Pray your answers through. Avoid the confrontation. Once the mouth opens and the words come out, there is no going back. Just like fish we go from Monday to the frying pan!
Who so keeps his mouth shut and minds his tongue keeps his soul from troubles. Proverbs 21:23
Have a great and blessed day.
Marty
I have started my Christmas shopping. I can't say that I am fond of it. I do however need to purchase a gift for a fellow sportsman. This fella likes to fish. So off I went to the Sporting Goods store to browse. So many fishing lures to choose from. One advertisement for a lure stated " guaranteed to make them bite". I thought to myself now that's a bait to have.
Today I want us to think about this week. Someone will toss a "bait" our way this week. This bait is designed to get us to open our mouths and say something we later will wish we had not said.
"People are like fish. Neither would get into trouble if they just kept their mouths shut."
Don't fall for the bait. Pray your answers through. Avoid the confrontation. Once the mouth opens and the words come out, there is no going back. Just like fish we go from Monday to the frying pan!
Who so keeps his mouth shut and minds his tongue keeps his soul from troubles. Proverbs 21:23
Have a great and blessed day.
Marty
Friday, November 23, 2012
Traveling Home 11/23/2012
Good morning!
Many of those in the United States were out early or in the middle of the night to obtain low prices on Christmas presents. So let me recommend a strong cup of Door County White Christmas Coffee to wake you up.
Have you ever traveled somewhere and despite how hard your host worked for you something was missing? What was missing, is that it wasn't home!
My kingdom is not of the world. John 18:36
Jesus reminds us that His home is in Heaven. Those who have received Him as Lord and Savior will dwell with Him there when we leave this world.
There are many rooms in my Father's house. I am going there to prepare a place for you. John 14:2
Problems, strife, discontent and unhappiness on Earth work to promote a thirst and hunger for Heaven. God through these, holds our attentions on what is ahead.
We will never be content here. We were not made for Earth. We were made for Heaven. Settling for what Earth has to offer is a great tragedy. We are prematurely satisfied. Content in a strange land??
We will see moments or days of joy, peace, and get glimpses of God at work. But never ever think that what we have now compares to the wonders ahead! Travel on! We are just passing through.
God bless,
Marty
Many of those in the United States were out early or in the middle of the night to obtain low prices on Christmas presents. So let me recommend a strong cup of Door County White Christmas Coffee to wake you up.
Have you ever traveled somewhere and despite how hard your host worked for you something was missing? What was missing, is that it wasn't home!
My kingdom is not of the world. John 18:36
Jesus reminds us that His home is in Heaven. Those who have received Him as Lord and Savior will dwell with Him there when we leave this world.
There are many rooms in my Father's house. I am going there to prepare a place for you. John 14:2
Problems, strife, discontent and unhappiness on Earth work to promote a thirst and hunger for Heaven. God through these, holds our attentions on what is ahead.
We will never be content here. We were not made for Earth. We were made for Heaven. Settling for what Earth has to offer is a great tragedy. We are prematurely satisfied. Content in a strange land??
We will see moments or days of joy, peace, and get glimpses of God at work. But never ever think that what we have now compares to the wonders ahead! Travel on! We are just passing through.
God bless,
Marty
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Cup Of Cheer 11/22/2012
Good morning!
I am off of work today and headed out to do some duck hunting with my Nephew Nick and my good buddy Fred. Time spent with those guys and of course a good cup of Door County Apple Cobbler Coffee is priceless.
Did you ever notice that the person most people want to hang around with has a cheerful personality?
You like to be greeted by them. They are welcoming. They pay attention to you. And you feel better after you have spent time with them. I have been blessed to know many people like that. The Bible has a lot to say about being cheerful.
Proverbs 15:30
A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.
Proverbs 17:22
A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
If we are to love one another as Jesus commands, shouldn't we work to spread cheerfulness whenever we can? Read the verses above again, They make you think of someone or they put a smile on your face.
Cheerful people live longest here in our hearts.
So spread some cheer, share a smile, a compliment, a word of love, a word of comfort, a word of thankfulness or a hug.
If it is in the Bible it is important!
Have a great day.
God bless,
Marty
I am off of work today and headed out to do some duck hunting with my Nephew Nick and my good buddy Fred. Time spent with those guys and of course a good cup of Door County Apple Cobbler Coffee is priceless.
Did you ever notice that the person most people want to hang around with has a cheerful personality?
You like to be greeted by them. They are welcoming. They pay attention to you. And you feel better after you have spent time with them. I have been blessed to know many people like that. The Bible has a lot to say about being cheerful.
Proverbs 15:30
A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.
Proverbs 17:22
A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
If we are to love one another as Jesus commands, shouldn't we work to spread cheerfulness whenever we can? Read the verses above again, They make you think of someone or they put a smile on your face.
Cheerful people live longest here in our hearts.
So spread some cheer, share a smile, a compliment, a word of love, a word of comfort, a word of thankfulness or a hug.
If it is in the Bible it is important!
Have a great day.
God bless,
Marty
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Turkey Recipe and Thankfulness. 11/21/2012
Good Morning. Today I am treating myself to a cup of Door County Candy Cane Coffee. I hope your day is blessed and you can be a blessing to someone today.
This Thursday in the United States we celebrate our Thanksgiving Day. A day full of history, where we are reminded to be thankful for our blessings.
3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, 5 for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; Philippians 1:3-6
It is a custom in many homes just before dining on a turkey dinner, people at the table are asked to state something they are thankful for.
I suggest a different way of doing this. This week vow to yourself to let someone know just how thankful you are for them. Then go so far as to pray for that person for the rest of the week.
In case you didn't know it I am thankful for all of you who read this devotional. Because as Paul writes God has begun a good work in you, and I cherish your fellowship in Jesus. I do pray for you and many of you I do not know. God knows who you are and where you are . I trust Him to hear me on your behalf.
Last night I promised a Turkey Recipe
Here it is.
Any size turkey is just fine.
Thaw and wash the turkey.
Dry the turkey with a towel inside and out.
Place the turkey into your baking pan.
Pepper the outside to your specific taste level.
Place two slices of bacon into the turkey cavity.
Completely cover the whole turkey with bacon slices. Preferably heavily smoked bacon.
Then pour about 12-16 ounces of pure maple syrup over the bacon covered turkey.
Bake until done. No need to baste.
Slice the turkey and place on a platter.
Squirt some of the pan drippings on to the meat.
Serve while hot!
God bless,
Marty
This Thursday in the United States we celebrate our Thanksgiving Day. A day full of history, where we are reminded to be thankful for our blessings.
3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, 5 for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; Philippians 1:3-6
It is a custom in many homes just before dining on a turkey dinner, people at the table are asked to state something they are thankful for.
I suggest a different way of doing this. This week vow to yourself to let someone know just how thankful you are for them. Then go so far as to pray for that person for the rest of the week.
In case you didn't know it I am thankful for all of you who read this devotional. Because as Paul writes God has begun a good work in you, and I cherish your fellowship in Jesus. I do pray for you and many of you I do not know. God knows who you are and where you are . I trust Him to hear me on your behalf.
Last night I promised a Turkey Recipe
Here it is.
Any size turkey is just fine.
Thaw and wash the turkey.
Dry the turkey with a towel inside and out.
Place the turkey into your baking pan.
Pepper the outside to your specific taste level.
Place two slices of bacon into the turkey cavity.
Completely cover the whole turkey with bacon slices. Preferably heavily smoked bacon.
Then pour about 12-16 ounces of pure maple syrup over the bacon covered turkey.
Bake until done. No need to baste.
Slice the turkey and place on a platter.
Squirt some of the pan drippings on to the meat.
Serve while hot!
God bless,
Marty
Live Like you are dying. 11/21/2012
Good Morning,
Dear Friends I have a cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee in my hand as I write this. I am preparing for a long day. I wrote this one back in 2012. I decided it was time for a replay.
Yesterday was a tough day. I watched as my wife and her family had to make the decision to place her Dad into Hospice care. All the school and classes in the world did not prepare me for this day. I really was at a loss as to what to say. Earlier in the day my Father in Law and I had a discussion about eternity with Jesus. He reassured me that there was Jesus in his future. He and I reminisced about that Christmas Eve when he accepted Jesus as his Savior.
Yet I was confronted with my own mortality. I have received Jesus and have made Him Lord and Savior of my life 31 years ago. The above Scripture reminds me that my days are numbered and God knows when He will call me home. I am ready to go. But here is what I learned today.
God bless,
Marty
Dear Friends I have a cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee in my hand as I write this. I am preparing for a long day. I wrote this one back in 2012. I decided it was time for a replay.
Psalm 56:8
You number my wanderings;
Put my tears into Your bottle;
Are they not in Your book?
Put my tears into Your bottle;
Are they not in Your book?
Yesterday was a tough day. I watched as my wife and her family had to make the decision to place her Dad into Hospice care. All the school and classes in the world did not prepare me for this day. I really was at a loss as to what to say. Earlier in the day my Father in Law and I had a discussion about eternity with Jesus. He reassured me that there was Jesus in his future. He and I reminisced about that Christmas Eve when he accepted Jesus as his Savior.
Yet I was confronted with my own mortality. I have received Jesus and have made Him Lord and Savior of my life 31 years ago. The above Scripture reminds me that my days are numbered and God knows when He will call me home. I am ready to go. But here is what I learned today.
Tell your family that you love them.
Be kind today. Don't wait for tomorrow.
Scratch your dog's ears.
Hug more.
Pray often.
Feed a family.
Say please and thank you.
Read your Bible more.
Live like you were dying.
God bless,
Marty
Monday, November 19, 2012
Transformers 11/20/2012
Dear Friends,
Good morning facing my Monday with a cup of Door County Death's Door Coffee and some
time spent at the throne of God.
Romans 12:2
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of
your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable, perfect will of
God.
So what does that mean? God's perfect will is that none should perish but have
everlasting life. God has created two eternal homes so that no one is left
homeless. He has created heaven and hell. For those who have received Jesus as
Savior heaven awaits. Well the second part to that is for those who have not
received Jesus, hell awaits.
Each day we are bombarded with the things of this Earth. Before they take a
foothold in our life the above verse tells us to renew our minds. A backslidden
Christian cannot prove the "perfect will of God" and therefore they are not real
convincing when they preach Jesus.
So, daily we should pray, read our Bibles, and have someone hold us accountable
for life choices. This keeps us transformed in the right direction.
God bless,
Marty
Good morning facing my Monday with a cup of Door County Death's Door Coffee and some
time spent at the throne of God.
Romans 12:2
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of
your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable, perfect will of
God.
So what does that mean? God's perfect will is that none should perish but have
everlasting life. God has created two eternal homes so that no one is left
homeless. He has created heaven and hell. For those who have received Jesus as
Savior heaven awaits. Well the second part to that is for those who have not
received Jesus, hell awaits.
Each day we are bombarded with the things of this Earth. Before they take a
foothold in our life the above verse tells us to renew our minds. A backslidden
Christian cannot prove the "perfect will of God" and therefore they are not real
convincing when they preach Jesus.
So, daily we should pray, read our Bibles, and have someone hold us accountable
for life choices. This keeps us transformed in the right direction.
God bless,
Marty
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Preventing House Fires11/15/2012
Dear Friends Good Morning, I broke out a little Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee this morning. Feeling just a little nutty today.
In the past few months I have been preaching and teaching Christian love in our church.
Verses like "love your neighbor as yourself" "do unto others" "would you not help a neighbor who's ox was in a ditch?" Many, many verses bombarded my brain as I listened, taught and preached through the weeks. I asked myself "am I a good neighbor?" Well I have lent my lawn mower to a neighbor, I've repaired their plumbing, I have dined with them, I watch their house when they are gone. So I concluded that I am a good neighbor. I then asked God. Am I a good neighbor? I received no answer. The other night while watching the news the key story was about a man that rescued his neighbors from their burning house. I thought "now that's a good neighbor, I'd do that!" As I prayed before sleep that night God reminded me that I was not a good neighbor. Many of my neighbor's houses were on fire and I have not done a thing to put out the fires of hell in their lives. I haven't invited my neighbors to church. I deliver pasta when a baby is born but forget to pray with the new mother and father. Our text from the book of John reminds us of this.
Those who believe in the Son have eternal life, but those who do not obey the Son will never have life. John 3:36
2 Peter 3:9 also states that, God is being patient with you. He does want not anyone to be lost, but He wants all people to change their hearts and lives.
Truly friends, if my neighbors house were ablaze with fire I would storm the place and try to rescue them. Those who do not know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and are relying on good works, religious rituals, and hoping they are good enough are literally living in a house headed for more than a blaze if they die. So be a good neighbor and don't be afraid to say "Hey neighbor your house is on fire". Share the Good News of Jesus Christ and His message of salvation.
God bless you all.
Marty
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Swimming to Shore 11/13/2012
Good Morning,
Chilly day in the Midwest. My cup overflows (Literally) with Door County Apple
Cobbler Coffee.
Hebrews 12:1
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of
witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset
us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.
As all duck hunters know when you hunt deep water the lakes are not always as
calm as glass. You have to be prepared at all times for rough water.
Part of the equipment needed to hunt ducks are a good pair of chest waders.
Waders are basically a water proof suit. A life jacket is also a must.
A plan needs to be made in case the boat capsizes or you fall into the water.
Waders will fill quickly and the extra water will weight you down. You must be
prepared to release and remove your waders in the water. In order to get to
shore you must reduce the weight that would hold you back and possibly cause you
to drown.
Life is the same way. If we are to be the Christian we want to be and the one
God desires, we need to remove the weights that may hold us back. I can't tell
you what it may be for you, but you know what it might be. Sin is a weight,
being too busy can be a weight, worry can be a weight, refusing to serve in the
church or charity can be a weight.
Lay aside the weights and get to shore.
God bless,
Marty
Chilly day in the Midwest. My cup overflows (Literally) with Door County Apple
Cobbler Coffee.
Hebrews 12:1
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of
witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset
us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.
As all duck hunters know when you hunt deep water the lakes are not always as
calm as glass. You have to be prepared at all times for rough water.
Part of the equipment needed to hunt ducks are a good pair of chest waders.
Waders are basically a water proof suit. A life jacket is also a must.
A plan needs to be made in case the boat capsizes or you fall into the water.
Waders will fill quickly and the extra water will weight you down. You must be
prepared to release and remove your waders in the water. In order to get to
shore you must reduce the weight that would hold you back and possibly cause you
to drown.
Life is the same way. If we are to be the Christian we want to be and the one
God desires, we need to remove the weights that may hold us back. I can't tell
you what it may be for you, but you know what it might be. Sin is a weight,
being too busy can be a weight, worry can be a weight, refusing to serve in the
church or charity can be a weight.
Lay aside the weights and get to shore.
God bless,
Marty
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Time Spent 11/13/2012
Good Morning,
The old coffee cup is filled with Door County Cherry Creme this morning. Cold day in Wisconsin.
Can we all agree that in this world we are busier than ever before? We have electronic calendars just to keep our appointments.
Think about your daily schedule. How would you describe it?
Nuts?
Crazy?
Impossible?
Busy?
Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything,
Seems as if there just aren't enough hours in the day anymore. I don"t have a solution to the problem. Sometimes you have to drop something or neglect something else. But I can tell you two things that cannot be dropped off the schedule.
The old coffee cup is filled with Door County Cherry Creme this morning. Cold day in Wisconsin.
Can we all agree that in this world we are busier than ever before? We have electronic calendars just to keep our appointments.
Think about your daily schedule. How would you describe it?
Nuts?
Crazy?
Impossible?
Busy?
Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
Seems as if there just aren't enough hours in the day anymore. I don"t have a solution to the problem. Sometimes you have to drop something or neglect something else. But I can tell you two things that cannot be dropped off the schedule.
#1. You can't drop time with God.
Matthew 4:4Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."
Matthew 4:4Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."
#2 You can't drop time with your kids. You see kids grow up fast. Before you know it they are gone on to their own lives. Spend time with the kids. They need you. This is time you can never get back. Make time!
Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
What will your kids, nieces, nephews, or grand children say about you when you are gone? "He sure was busy. Must have been a great worker, he was always there. He left us some money, wish I knew him better."
What will your legacy say about you?
God bless,
Marty
Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
What will your kids, nieces, nephews, or grand children say about you when you are gone? "He sure was busy. Must have been a great worker, he was always there. He left us some money, wish I knew him better."
What will your legacy say about you?
God bless,
Marty
Monday, November 12, 2012
Taste Test 11/12/2012
Good Morning World.
This morning my cup is filled with Door County White Christmas Coffee.
2 Corinthians 5;17
If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away, behold, all things are become a new.
As a young boy coffee was not what I preferred to drink in the morning. It seemed that it was bitter and just not as good as grape juice or cola products. As I got older I found that working outside presented some difficulties like "cold weather". Hunting seemed better with a warm cup of something. I became a coffee drinker. You see my taste started over.
You see those Born again in Christ experience a regeneration that becomes evident in a "change of taste".
R. A. Torrey writes.
"We get new tastes instead of the old tastes, new loves instead of the old loves. Instead of loving any longer the things that displease God, we now love the things that please God. The things we once hated, we now love, and the things we once hated we now love". (The Holy Spirit , Who he is and What He does.)
The first step to a "taste change" is to listen to the call of the Holy Spirit who leads you to salvation in Jesus.
The second step is two admit that we are all sinners and Jesus is the only way unto God the Father.
Third step. Ask for forgiveness of our sins.
Fourth step. Accepting the free gift of forgiveness.
Then watch your tastes change. You may have thought the Bible was foolish like I did for many years. Now I cannot wait to read it every day.
Drugs may have ruled your life but now you desire fresh air and a fresh body.
But first, you have to start. Pray to receive Jesus as Savior and Lord.
If you are already there and find that some of your old preferences are coming back. Well renew and get someone to hold you accountable for your "change of taste". Pray often and read the Word of God. Join a Bible Teaching Church.
As my mother used to say when teaching me to eat new foods. "Just try it"
God bless,
Marty
This morning my cup is filled with Door County White Christmas Coffee.
2 Corinthians 5;17
If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away, behold, all things are become a new.
As a young boy coffee was not what I preferred to drink in the morning. It seemed that it was bitter and just not as good as grape juice or cola products. As I got older I found that working outside presented some difficulties like "cold weather". Hunting seemed better with a warm cup of something. I became a coffee drinker. You see my taste started over.
You see those Born again in Christ experience a regeneration that becomes evident in a "change of taste".
R. A. Torrey writes.
"We get new tastes instead of the old tastes, new loves instead of the old loves. Instead of loving any longer the things that displease God, we now love the things that please God. The things we once hated, we now love, and the things we once hated we now love". (The Holy Spirit , Who he is and What He does.)
The first step to a "taste change" is to listen to the call of the Holy Spirit who leads you to salvation in Jesus.
The second step is two admit that we are all sinners and Jesus is the only way unto God the Father.
Third step. Ask for forgiveness of our sins.
Fourth step. Accepting the free gift of forgiveness.
Then watch your tastes change. You may have thought the Bible was foolish like I did for many years. Now I cannot wait to read it every day.
Drugs may have ruled your life but now you desire fresh air and a fresh body.
But first, you have to start. Pray to receive Jesus as Savior and Lord.
If you are already there and find that some of your old preferences are coming back. Well renew and get someone to hold you accountable for your "change of taste". Pray often and read the Word of God. Join a Bible Teaching Church.
As my mother used to say when teaching me to eat new foods. "Just try it"
God bless,
Marty
Sunday, November 11, 2012
VETERANS Day 11/11/2012
Good Morning!
My coffee cup is filled today with Bigby's Pumpkin Spice. I am enjoying every drop.
Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13
In America today we honor our Veterans. Those men and women who serve and served to keep our nation free and stepped up when called upon to assist other nations.
I am amazed that this blog is now read in many parts of the world. God is always doing something that causes me awe and wonder. Most countries have armed forces that serve to protect them. I pray today that those who have forces working to keep them safe, secure and part of the free world will thank them also.
I am the proud son of a United States Marine who served in combat during the Korean War. He still displays a flag, says the pledge of allegiance, sings the national anthem with his hat off, despises those who sing it inappropriately, serves at funerals for those vets passing on, marches in the 4th of July parade and speaks in the local schools on Veterans Day. Dad we are proud of you. I am proud of every man and woman that served and sacrificed so gallantly.
I am writing this with small tears in my eyes. But no one can tell me that I can't write this, and no one is shooting at me while doing so. It is because of those who fought for us.
Today thank a veteran, go out of your way to serve one. I personally want to thank everyone of you Veterans and let you know that in this home you are respected, loved and prayed for more than you know.
God bless and keep you.
Marty
My coffee cup is filled today with Bigby's Pumpkin Spice. I am enjoying every drop.
Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13
In America today we honor our Veterans. Those men and women who serve and served to keep our nation free and stepped up when called upon to assist other nations.
I am amazed that this blog is now read in many parts of the world. God is always doing something that causes me awe and wonder. Most countries have armed forces that serve to protect them. I pray today that those who have forces working to keep them safe, secure and part of the free world will thank them also.
I am the proud son of a United States Marine who served in combat during the Korean War. He still displays a flag, says the pledge of allegiance, sings the national anthem with his hat off, despises those who sing it inappropriately, serves at funerals for those vets passing on, marches in the 4th of July parade and speaks in the local schools on Veterans Day. Dad we are proud of you. I am proud of every man and woman that served and sacrificed so gallantly.
I am writing this with small tears in my eyes. But no one can tell me that I can't write this, and no one is shooting at me while doing so. It is because of those who fought for us.
Today thank a veteran, go out of your way to serve one. I personally want to thank everyone of you Veterans and let you know that in this home you are respected, loved and prayed for more than you know.
God bless and keep you.
Marty
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Iron Sharpens Iron 11/10/2012
Good Morning,
My coffee today is Door County Maple. Headed out to do some duck hunting and then a nap before church tonight.
I was hunting today with my nephews Nick and Matt. By their standards I am considered old. By my standards they are considered young. Both are teenagers. I enjoyed some coffee with them and a sandwich in the boat. We talked a lot and enjoyed the morning, When I look at these two guys I see the future of our family, country and church. I have many hunting buddies and I probably hunt more than the average guy and look forward to hunting with all of them during the season. But I like to make room for the "future". Many folks tend to look at the younger generation and say " not much hope there". That is truly against what I believe. I believe they are to be mentored and taught. Then give them every chance to succeed. Sooner or later they begin to trust and thinking that you just might be worth listening to. I have learned some things from them and I believe they have been taught a few things too.
Guess what folks? This is Scriptural.
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17
If more adults were on Scriptural Terms with young folks there would be less of the "Not Speaking Terms" that we see all too often.
God bless,
My coffee today is Door County Maple. Headed out to do some duck hunting and then a nap before church tonight.
I was hunting today with my nephews Nick and Matt. By their standards I am considered old. By my standards they are considered young. Both are teenagers. I enjoyed some coffee with them and a sandwich in the boat. We talked a lot and enjoyed the morning, When I look at these two guys I see the future of our family, country and church. I have many hunting buddies and I probably hunt more than the average guy and look forward to hunting with all of them during the season. But I like to make room for the "future". Many folks tend to look at the younger generation and say " not much hope there". That is truly against what I believe. I believe they are to be mentored and taught. Then give them every chance to succeed. Sooner or later they begin to trust and thinking that you just might be worth listening to. I have learned some things from them and I believe they have been taught a few things too.
Guess what folks? This is Scriptural.
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17
If more adults were on Scriptural Terms with young folks there would be less of the "Not Speaking Terms" that we see all too often.
God bless,
Friday, November 9, 2012
Tears in a Bottle 11/9/2012
Dear Friends,
Coffee of the day is Door County Mocha Mint. Comfort Coffee. May your cup overflow with goodness today. http://www.doorcountycoffee.com/ People often ask me where they can get some of the coffee I drink.
As I studied God's word last night in the peace and quiet of my den, I started to ponder the past week. I wondered. Do we all feel somewhat insignificant once in awhile in this big world? Do we all get lonely from time to time? Do we all experience troubles from time to time?
I prayed and admitted that I get those feelings now and then.And like everyone else I have troubles by the boat load all too often. We probably all have said things like this. "I haven't accomplished anything today." Why am I here." "Where's God in all this?" Admit it. We all have had some of those insecure thoughts. It would be so easy to think that we don't matter. With God running the universe does He really have time for me?
Of course the answer to that is, yes He does. You ask. How do I know? The Bible tells me so!
In the following verse we see that God has our tears contained.
You number my wanderings; Put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book?
Psalm 56:8
God knows each of us so well that He does know where we are, what we are doing, and even when we cry. As a manly man, who sheds very few tears and if I do, I do it privately. It is comforting to know that in my deepest and darkest, better and best times I am not alone. So even if God is busy running the universe, He comes to dry my eyes and watch over my wanderings.
God Bless and have a great weekend.
Marty Schutte
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Hot Dogs Cure for Lonleliness11/8/2012
Good Morning, The Coffey today is Door County Buttered Rum,
Hey we are over the hump and headed into the weekend. I hope none of you are having election commercial withdrawals. Anyone missing those political phone calls? If you are that lonely this message is for you.
.
Hey we are over the hump and headed into the weekend. I hope none of you are having election commercial withdrawals. Anyone missing those political phone calls? If you are that lonely this message is for you.
.
"THE CURE FOR LONELINESS, THE HOT DOG??"
A couple years ago our church held an outdoor service and invited the civil servants of the church and community along with service men and women from our armed forces to praise and worship with us. The church also took the time to thank these fine men ad women and extend a heartfelt tribute to them and their work. It was attended well and I remember thinking that an outdoor service was not the best thing for a guy with thinning hair. (It was quite hot and sunny). Well after the service the church served a lunch of hot dogs, chips and beverages. I noticed that very few people left after the service but almost everyone stayed for lunch. Never being one to pass up a free lunch my wife and I stayed also. About a hot dog or two later, I try not to count or watch what my wife eats, (Ha) I noticed that no one was leaving. Everyone was staying and chatting, kids were swinging. Wow fellowship at it's best.
The following week my wife Laurene and I went North to visit my parents. The plan was to watch the small town parade and eat what the Lion's Club was cooking at the town pavilion. Well the parade was great. But I couldn't wait for the end to come as I had bratwurst on my mind. Much to my dismay right after the parade I found out that my bratwurst would not be served for another hour or so. Argh! My mother knew we were hungry and she really didn't want to wait either. My cousin and her family happened to be watching the parade with us and they too were not in bratwurst happy land. My mother suggested that she had plenty of hot dogs, potato chips along with pickles and cold beverages and that we should all go out to their home and she would whip them up pronto. Well we all ate and there was plenty of this simple lunch. We visited with my cousin and her family and before we knew it many hours had passed. We had the best of times. So I thought what is the message here? My brother often invites us over for birthdays and holidays. He always throws a feast. But why do I remember the hot chocolate with his family on the sledding hill most? Or why do I fondly remember hot dogs, kickball and chips with his family and mine on Fathers day? Why do I cherish time spent on Sunday mornings before church with one of my friends eating toast or sweet rolls? Well? It was unplanned!!! That's why. We just got together and enjoyed simple hospitality. Now in the book of Romans God talks about hospitality.Romans 12:9-13 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love,, rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer, distributing to the needs of one another, given to hospitality. Throughout the Old Testament and New Testament God speaks about being friendly, entertaining strangers, two are better than one, Good Samaritans etc. The list goes on and on. I came to this conclusion. We are only as lonely as we choose to be. Someone would love to share a hot dog meal with us. A cup of coffee and a piece of cake. Hospitality does not have to be elaborate. We have what we have. Your home is your home. Open it up! Don't wait for someone to invite you. Be first. the best of times are the simple ones. The ones best remembered. You see a pack of hot dogs may cost two to three dollars, buns run seventy five cents to a dollar and a half, a little ketchup, a little mustard another two dollars, a cold glass of lemonade another dollar, the memories and fun priceless! God bless you all as you open your homes. You are only as lonely as you choose to be! Marty
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Run Joseph Run 11/7/2012
Good Morning,
Definitely needing some coffee today. Door County Apple Cobbler is steaming in the cup. Let's write!
Now Joseph was well-built and handsome,(N) 7 and after a while his master’s wife took notice of Joseph and said, “Come to bed with me!”(O)
8 But he refused.(P) “With me in charge,” he told her, “my master does not concern himself with anything in the house; everything he owns he has entrusted to my care.(Q) 9 No one is greater in this house than I am.(R) My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?”(S) 10 And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused(T) to go to bed with her or even be with her.
11 One day he went into the house to attend to his duties,(U) and none of the household servants(V) was inside. 12 She caught him by his cloak(W) and said, “Come to bed with me!”(X) But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house.(Y
What do you do when temptations come your way? Joseph ran out. We all are tempted in many ways. What we all need is a quick escape plan. Hanging around is not healthy for our battle with sin and temptations. We need to run and get out of the situation, less we cave in.
When you run, run to God, can you imagine Satan wanting to get closer to God? I think not. So even if you are physically old and slow like me. You can still out run the Devil.
On you mark, get set RUN!
Have a great day.
Marty
Definitely needing some coffee today. Door County Apple Cobbler is steaming in the cup. Let's write!
Genesis 39
New International Version (NIV)
Joseph and Potiphar’s Wife
39 Now Joseph(A) had been taken down to Egypt. Potiphar, an Egyptian who was one of Pharaoh’s officials, the captain of the guard,(B) bought him from the Ishmaelites who had taken him there.(C)
2 The Lord was with Joseph(D) so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. 3 When his master saw that the Lord was with him(E) and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did,(F) 4 Joseph found favor in his eyes(G) and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household,(H) and he entrusted to his care everything he owned.(I) 5 From the time he put him in charge of his household and of all that he owned, the Lord blessed the household(J) of the Egyptian because of Joseph.(K) The blessing of the Lord was on everything Potiphar had, both in the house and in the field.(L) 6 So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care;(M) with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate.Now Joseph was well-built and handsome,(N) 7 and after a while his master’s wife took notice of Joseph and said, “Come to bed with me!”(O)
8 But he refused.(P) “With me in charge,” he told her, “my master does not concern himself with anything in the house; everything he owns he has entrusted to my care.(Q) 9 No one is greater in this house than I am.(R) My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?”(S) 10 And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused(T) to go to bed with her or even be with her.
11 One day he went into the house to attend to his duties,(U) and none of the household servants(V) was inside. 12 She caught him by his cloak(W) and said, “Come to bed with me!”(X) But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house.(Y
What do you do when temptations come your way? Joseph ran out. We all are tempted in many ways. What we all need is a quick escape plan. Hanging around is not healthy for our battle with sin and temptations. We need to run and get out of the situation, less we cave in.
When you run, run to God, can you imagine Satan wanting to get closer to God? I think not. So even if you are physically old and slow like me. You can still out run the Devil.
On you mark, get set RUN!
Have a great day.
Marty
Election 2012 11/6/2012
Dear Friends,
Good morning. My coffee today is Door County Egg Nog. Really wishing December was here.
My friend Jeff has written this and I thought I would share his thoughts today.
Jeff writes. " Today is a very important day in the United States. Election day is the day where we choose our leader for the next four years. Over the past few months we all have been receiving numerous automated telephone calls from the candidates lauding their plans, policies and criticizing their opponents. Each candidate has plans that will have adverse impacts on some and benefit others. But none have a plan that will benefit everyone."
Exodus 34:23-24
23 Three times each year all the men of Israel must appear before the Sovereign LORD, the God of Israel. 24 No one will attack and conquer your land when you go to appear before the LORD your God those three times each year. I will drive out the nations that stand in your way and will enlarge your boundaries.
"God does have a plan that does, no matter your nationality and it is quite simple. Obedience. Notice the word must in the above passage. Then notice the blessings that followed the act of obedience.
It all starts with you. Choose to make the decision to be obedient to God and you can impact your world. Obedience to God and His word will dictate how you vote."
God bless,
Marty
Good morning. My coffee today is Door County Egg Nog. Really wishing December was here.
My friend Jeff has written this and I thought I would share his thoughts today.
Jeff writes. " Today is a very important day in the United States. Election day is the day where we choose our leader for the next four years. Over the past few months we all have been receiving numerous automated telephone calls from the candidates lauding their plans, policies and criticizing their opponents. Each candidate has plans that will have adverse impacts on some and benefit others. But none have a plan that will benefit everyone."
Exodus 34:23-24
23 Three times each year all the men of Israel must appear before the Sovereign LORD, the God of Israel. 24 No one will attack and conquer your land when you go to appear before the LORD your God those three times each year. I will drive out the nations that stand in your way and will enlarge your boundaries.
"God does have a plan that does, no matter your nationality and it is quite simple. Obedience. Notice the word must in the above passage. Then notice the blessings that followed the act of obedience.
It all starts with you. Choose to make the decision to be obedient to God and you can impact your world. Obedience to God and His word will dictate how you vote."
God bless,
Marty
Monday, November 5, 2012
Battle of Britain 11/5/2012
Good Morning Friends,
Friday and the coffee of choice today is Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee. I hope your weekend will be, restful and fun.
You can easily determine the caliber of a person by the amount of opposition it takes to discourage him. Starting a new week, and we all face some unknowns.
Scripture tells us
If you faint in the time of adversity your strength is small. Proverbs 24:10
"The gratitude of every home in our Island, in our Empire, and indeed throughout the world, except in the abodes of the guilty, goes out to the British airmen who, undaunted by odds, unwearied in their constant challenge and mortal danger, are turning the tide of the World War by their prowess and by their devotion. Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few." Winston Churchill
During the air battle for Britain in World War Two, day by day and night by night British airmen fought off the attacks by Nazi Germany. The word quit was not in their vocabulary. If it were not for their bravery Britain would have been lost to Germany. I would say these were high caliber men and women.
Whatever you face next week, you have all you need to bear up and face it. You are not alone. With God, you and He are the majority.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Because He lives we can face tomorrow.
God bless,
Marty
Friday and the coffee of choice today is Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee. I hope your weekend will be, restful and fun.
You can easily determine the caliber of a person by the amount of opposition it takes to discourage him. Starting a new week, and we all face some unknowns.
Scripture tells us
If you faint in the time of adversity your strength is small. Proverbs 24:10
"The gratitude of every home in our Island, in our Empire, and indeed throughout the world, except in the abodes of the guilty, goes out to the British airmen who, undaunted by odds, unwearied in their constant challenge and mortal danger, are turning the tide of the World War by their prowess and by their devotion. Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few." Winston Churchill
During the air battle for Britain in World War Two, day by day and night by night British airmen fought off the attacks by Nazi Germany. The word quit was not in their vocabulary. If it were not for their bravery Britain would have been lost to Germany. I would say these were high caliber men and women.
Whatever you face next week, you have all you need to bear up and face it. You are not alone. With God, you and He are the majority.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Because He lives we can face tomorrow.
God bless,
Marty
Friday, November 2, 2012
Driving Instructions 11/2/2012
Good Morning World!
Friday and I am celebrating with a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee.
The other night I was traveling with a friend to another part of Milwaukee that I was not familiar with. My friend has a smart phone with one of the GPS units that speaks and tells you where to turn in order to arrive at your destination. It even tells you when you have arrived.
Here was this little gadget that we listened to and followed each instruction perfectly.
Well that got me to thinking. We trusted a man made machine with our destination and arrival. Yet many of us do not trust the ultimate GPS. God's Positioning System. THE BIBLE
We trust running our lives to our own judgement. Let me ask you this. Have you ever been lost and needed some directions? Of course the answer is yes. We trust others for those directions. They are human also. Or we trust a man made machine to guide our path.
But when it comes to life, many of us want to adjust the directions found within God's word, take a short cut or take our life down a dangerous path. This is contrary to what God writes in
Psalm 119:105
Friday and I am celebrating with a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee.
The other night I was traveling with a friend to another part of Milwaukee that I was not familiar with. My friend has a smart phone with one of the GPS units that speaks and tells you where to turn in order to arrive at your destination. It even tells you when you have arrived.
Here was this little gadget that we listened to and followed each instruction perfectly.
We never questioned it even one time.
Well that got me to thinking. We trusted a man made machine with our destination and arrival. Yet many of us do not trust the ultimate GPS. God's Positioning System. THE BIBLE
We trust running our lives to our own judgement. Let me ask you this. Have you ever been lost and needed some directions? Of course the answer is yes. We trust others for those directions. They are human also. Or we trust a man made machine to guide our path.
But when it comes to life, many of us want to adjust the directions found within God's word, take a short cut or take our life down a dangerous path. This is contrary to what God writes in
Psalm 119:105
King James Version (KJV)
105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
The Bible knows the way for every day, knows the ultimate destination, what it is like and can even tell us where a short cut outside of a life saved by Jesus Christ will take us.
Dust it off, open it up, read it and obey.
God bless,
Marty
The Bible knows the way for every day, knows the ultimate destination, what it is like and can even tell us where a short cut outside of a life saved by Jesus Christ will take us.
Dust it off, open it up, read it and obey.
God bless,
Marty
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Radio Station WII-FM 11/1/2012
Good Morning,
The old coffee cup is filled with Door County Pumpkin today.
Have you ever listened to one of the all time favorite radio stations? WII-FM
It is on in every city. Reception is always good. Programs run 24/7. It broadcasts in all languages. It often causes huge discussions among listeners.
WII-FM The handle stands for "What"s In It For Me?" I think if we are all honest we would admit to tuning into that one pretty often. We all have within us the potential to be selfish. We want it "our way". We tend to put ourselves first. But this is contrary to what God desires from us.
Philippians 2:1-4
If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Next time it comes to a choice and others are involved, you be Burger King and say "Let's have it your way." You'll be doing the right thing and in some instances avoid an argument, frustration, or anger.
After all, Jesus put us all first when He stretched out His arms and paid the price for our sins on the cross. Let's imitate the one who knows best. He set the standard.
God bless,
Marty
The old coffee cup is filled with Door County Pumpkin today.
Have you ever listened to one of the all time favorite radio stations? WII-FM
It is on in every city. Reception is always good. Programs run 24/7. It broadcasts in all languages. It often causes huge discussions among listeners.
WII-FM The handle stands for "What"s In It For Me?" I think if we are all honest we would admit to tuning into that one pretty often. We all have within us the potential to be selfish. We want it "our way". We tend to put ourselves first. But this is contrary to what God desires from us.
Philippians 2:1-4
If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Next time it comes to a choice and others are involved, you be Burger King and say "Let's have it your way." You'll be doing the right thing and in some instances avoid an argument, frustration, or anger.
After all, Jesus put us all first when He stretched out His arms and paid the price for our sins on the cross. Let's imitate the one who knows best. He set the standard.
God bless,
Marty
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