Feelings, Don't Trust Them. 12/31/13

Good Morning,

We will be saying Goodbye Adios, Farewell, Adieu, Adeus, Arrivederci, Auf Wiedersehen to 2013 tonight. So this morning I will start the day with a cup of Door County Cherry Crème Coffee. Here's hoping that 2014 is a year for you to be called by God to bless others in some way.

 

I learned a valuable lesson many years ago. Don't place a lot of value on feelings, especially your own. I don't feel like I want another year to pass on, but can I stop it?

Here's an example. I sometimes do not feel like going to work. But how do the bills get paid if I don't go to work? Sometimes I feel like staying in bed and not mowing the lawn. Well I don't own a goat so how will the grass get mowed if I act on my feelings. By the way! I never feel like mowing the lawn. My wife is a wonderful person and I love her dearly. But sometimes I feel like I don't want to be married. What would happen if I acted on that one. Answer! "Right to the moon". Sure we don't walk around starry eyed like we did when we were first dating, but that doesn't mean "the feelings aren't there. They just changed and instead of stars there is contentment. We place too much emphasis on feelings and not enough on facts and faith.

Hi, Now pay attention. Faith is Not a Feeling.
A person who walks by faith has established his relationship with God. The man who has faith never listens to his feelings, because he knows people who do listen to their feelings are not consecrated to God. They will obey what their feelings tell them to do rather than obey what God's will craves to do in and through them. Faith follows God, while feelings merely depend on how a person feels. A person who lives by faith will reject every satanic teaching that the enemy attempts to plant in his heart.

Hebrews 11:6 "And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him."

How do you feel now?

God bless,
Marty

Pepto Bismol And God 12/29/13

Good Morning,

Headed out early today with my Aunt to visit some relatives. My thermos is filled with Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee. We attended church last night as we usually do. I hope as you read this you have either been to church or are headed there.

I would like to share some information I found on Wikepedia about a product I use. This is not an endorsement of the product. Many people use "Pepto". It is part of what I pack when I leave for mission trips to combat stomach ailments from bad water or any other stomach bugs I pick up.

Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter drug currently produced by the Procter & Gamble company in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, to treat minor digestive system upset. Its active ingredient is bismuth subsalicylate. The primary symptoms aided by Pepto-Bismol are nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, diarrhea, and other temporary discomforts of the stomach and gastrointestinal tract.
Pepto-Bismol is made in chewable tablets^[1] and swallowable caplets,^[2] but is best known for its original formula which is a thick liquid. This original formula is a medium pink color with a strong wintergreen or cherry flavor.

Many of us suffer each day from what I call a nervous stomach or the daily pressures of life. We turn to over the counter cures. I am suggesting that today we look at "in the Bible cures".

Here are some gospills ready for you to use when worried or nervous.

1. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matt 6:34 NIV
2. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.  Phil 4:13 NIV
3. Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.  Isaiah 40:31 NIV
4. “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Matt 6:25-27 NIV
5. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. Luke 21:14 NIV
6. Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. Psalm 55:22 NIV
7. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV
8. I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken..  Psalm16:8 NIV
9. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.  Psalm 62:6 NIV
10.  Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings Psalm 17:8 NIV
11. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.  Psalm 91:4 NIV
12. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you;  I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.  Isaiah 41:10 NIV
13. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”  Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
14. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.  Romans 8:28 NIV
15. The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. Psalm 28:7 NIV
16. I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.  Psalm 121:1-2 NIV
17. They will have no fear of bad news;  their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD.  Psalm 112:7 NIV
18. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding Proverbs 3:5 NIV
19. There you saw how the LORD your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place. Deut 1:31 NIV
20. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Phil 4:6-7 NIV

Have a worry free day.

Marty

Coyote Trouble

Good Morning,

Started this day with a hot cup of Door County Cane Cane Coffee.

Last night our two dogs were very nervous and somewhat jumpy. The youngest who can hear very well even growled a couple times. I decided to light up our yard with flood lights that are attached to the house. I saw nothing to fear. We live in a rural area but you can't describe it as the "wilderness". It is a typical subdivision in a rural area. So we are a little bit "country".
So I went outside to just look. The night sky was very clear. I saw nothing. But what I heard in the distance was the sound of several coyotes howling. They have been know to come into the neighborhood and from time to time attack dogs. So the danger was close by and my dogs had warned us. I used a head lamp on my hat to look around. Sure enough I found coyote tracks in the fresh snow.  So when our dogs needed to go out last night you can be sure that I was out with them and accompanied by my two friends Smith and Wesson.

We need to protect ourselves from another predator. God clearly warns us that the devil is real and we should aware of his presence and his mission.

1 Peter 5:8

New King James Version (NKJV)

⁸ Be sober, be vigilant; because^[a] your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

I wasn't going outside without protection. In the same way we should always be armed and ready to do spiritual battle.

The Whole Armor of God Ephesians 6:10-19

¹⁰ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. ¹¹ Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age,^[b] against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. ¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
¹⁴ Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵ and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; ¹⁶ above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. ¹⁷ And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; ¹⁸ praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— ¹⁹ and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel,

On even the clearest of nights with many stars in the sky the devil is out there. But we have the weapons to defeat him. Don't be foolish. Protect yourself and the ones you love.

God bless,
Marty

The Wow Factor 12/27/13

Good Morning,

Friday and I need it like never before. This morning's coffee is Door County Pumpkin Spice. My week has been full of a little of everything.

Well, Christmas came and went too fast again. We shared gifts with people and received a few ourselves. I did receive a box of shot gun shells for next duck hunting season. I saw some folks very delighted and surprised with their gifts. But I did not see anyone speechless and just plain starry eyed with any of their gifts they received. Our family is practical and usually gives gifts meeting a need or something that will be used often. There was just no "wow factor" to our gifts. They were all much appreciated and will be used.

God is the same way. He knew we were sinners and needed a Savior. Our sins doomed us to eternity in hell, suffering in ways we cannot imagine. So God sent Jesus to save us through His death, burial, and resurrection.

Romans 5:8 (NKJV)

⁸ But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

 

Now there is a gift with "wow factor". But is Jesus a gift that we appreciate, use and share? Thinking about what Jesus did for us should leave us speechless, but just for a short time. Soon there after we should be shouting His name and sharing our gift with others. You see this Gift never stops giving nor does it go out of style.

Matthew 24:14    

And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.

 

Enjoy your gift, brag about it, and share it.

 

God bless,

Marty

When Christmas Hurts 12/26/13

Dear Friends.

Good Morning,

The day after Christmas and I am extremely tired. My coffee today is Door County Blueberry Cobbler. The Mrs. was struck very ill last night with a stomach ailment that is really getting the best of her. Your prayers are appreciated

We were blessed to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ Our Lord and Savior these past two days with friends and family. I watched and listened and there was a lot of laughter and fun discussions that went on. But in the midst of all that were two family members that just seemed empty and disengaged.  Both are going through some personal rough times and struggles. My heart aches for them. But what is needed can't be found in a pill, gifts or friends. What is needed is heart surgery. Not the kind that a surgeon provides, but one provided by Jesus.

Ezekiel 11:19   
And I will give them one heart, and a new spirit I will put within them. I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh,

Only God can fix a hurting heart. Only God can fill an empty void.. He does that through His son Jesus. I could offer these two food and beverage, and they accepted it. I offered Jesus and prayer, but they politely just listened. No action to heal was taken.

I will pray as they search for them to come to the correct path. But I will admit it hurts to watch them struggle. I am sure you know someone like this. Join me in prayer for them today.

God bless,
Marty

Merry Christmas. Give the Gift of Prayer 12/25/13

Good Morning and Merry Christmas to You,

This day started with prayer and a big cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java. I had a couple of prayers answered yesterday. They are personal requests for others so I won't go in to detail. But one answer took me by surprise. So as I sit at my desk on this cold Wisconsin morning I am praising God for being able to see him work and to know that He hears.

I remember getting tears in my eyes yesterday morning as I prayed for both of these requests. I cried out "Lord help here please!" Later in the day I received phone calls telling me all about what had happened in the lives of these two people. I was teary eyed again.

So Friends. Want to have a Merry Christmas? Pray for others today. Let it be an unspoken gift to them. Only you will know that you went to the Father on their behalf. God always answers yes or no. Even if it is no, He heard your request and plan, but He has a better one.

Jeremiah 33:3 (NKJV)

³ ‘Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.’

Merry Christmas. Give the gift of prayer.

Marty

Children And Baby Jesus 12/24/13

Good Morning,

Headed for a long drive this morning. The temperature is about zero here in Wisconsin. So my coffee was heated a little longer. My flavor today is Door County White Christmas. The weather forecast is telling us that today will be a snowy day. So my coffee is going to match the weather.

Last Sunday the kids musical at church was held. I have to say that it is always a highlight for me. You just never know what those kids are going to do. These little kids actually presented the Christmas Story in song and speech. They pretty much laid out the purpose of Baby Jesus. I wonder when the last time was that all the adults reading this reached out and spread the True Meaning of Christmas?

Matthew 1:18-25
¹⁸ Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. ¹⁹ Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. ²⁰ But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. ²¹ And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”
²² So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: ²³ “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”
²⁴ Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, ²⁵ and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son.^[d] And he called His name Jesus.

There is no message more plain than that. These little kids knew the message. Do you?

Merry Christmas
God bless.
Marty

Using Our Gifts, Richard Rys Christmas Music on the Concertina. 12/23/13

Good Morning,

How did Monday get here so fast. I guess the count down to Christmas has begun. My day has started with a cup of Door County Candy Cane Coffee.

This weekend we had to deal with a blizzard and now some cold temperatures. God is so good. While shoveling yesterday not one mosquito bothered me.

Our church, Faith Bible Church Greenfield Wisconsin is blessed to have a lot of differently talented people attend and serve God together. Hidden away on Saturdays is a fella who attends with his wife. We were surprised to find out that he plays the concertina. Of course being the one sole member of the Faith Bible Church Look Who's Got Talent Committee the challenge was dropped to Rich Rys to play some Christian music for our Saturday Night service on his concertina. Rich was up to the challenge and arranged two Christian Christmas tunes for us and they can now be viewed on Youtube. http://youtu.be/XSlkG_Xc7zk  Just copy and paste this link. You will be blessed.

I found them just amazing. I am fond of the concertina and accordion. But what I admire most is that God has given us all talents and Rich uses his for God's glory. We should never squander our gifts. They are to be used as a blessing to others and to assist in building the Kingdom of God.

1 Peter 4:10-11                
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

God bless,
Marty

Blizzard Conditions Staying Safe 12/22/13

Good Morning,

I am sitting in the kitchen at home watching the snow fly. My coffee cup is filled with Door County Pumpkin Spice. I am enjoying it very slowly and taking in the scene outside my window. I had to chuckle earlier this morning when of course our two dogs had to go outside for their bathroom duties. Both looked over the situation with the snow blowing and wind howling and the lights flickering from time to time and they decided to get their business done and  get back into the safety and comfort of the house.. What they also noticed is that I had already retreated back inside and was not with them. They are two sturdy hunting dogs and will go wherever I go. But they also know that we have a big presence of coyotes around and it is best to be around the guy that can whack a coyote if necessary. So at the door they stood barking to come in. Little did they know that the whole time I was inside I was watching them and had them in protective sight.

God is with us always and is around to protect us. Yet we seek to wander from His presence by demanding our own ways or living a lifestyle He does not approve of by grasping to sin instead of Him. If we are smart and we do wander out, a quick retreat back to the arms of God is in order. I was reading  my Bible and the passage in Romans 1 below just illuminated to me and I knew that I was to write on it. This passage should make every bone tremble in the believer and non-believer. When God has had enough of our ways and until we return to Him there comes a point where He says "ok choose that over Me and you can have your choice. But the consequences of that choice are yours, you own them." (Paraphrased) Read this passage. We can always turn to God and He will receive us, but the consequences of our earlier choice will be there.

God’s Wrath on Unrighteousness Romans 1:18-32

¹⁸ For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, ¹⁹ because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. ²⁰ For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, ²¹ because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. ²² Professing to be wise, they became fools, ²³ and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
²⁴ Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, ²⁵ who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
²⁶ For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. ²⁷ Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
²⁸ And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; ²⁹ being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality,^[c] wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, ³⁰ backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, ³¹ undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving,^[d] unmerciful; ³² who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.

I will give you an example. Drink to excess and know better and sooner or later you will be arrested for drunken driving, or a pickle for a liver, have an accident or kill someone. You might say. "Well then God doesn't really love me". When I hear that statement I just want to put my shoe in their anatomy where the sun doesn't shine. Because it is just the opposite. God does love us so much that He does not force Himself on us. He allows us to choose. But when we choose life outside of God we actually stand against Him and are now partners with the darkness (Satan) and all that hot mess has to offer. Doesn't sound too wise or safe to me. Give in to anger as your love and you will hurt someone and it won't be able to be fixed. You will say and do things that are just plain messed up.

Scripture teaches us best, but two smart dogs give us a good example. They knew where the safety was and they went to it. The door was open and a biscuit was ready.

God the Help of Those Who Seek Him

A Song of Ascents.

121 I will lift up my eyes to the hills—
From whence comes my help?
² My help comes from the Lord,
Who made heaven and earth.

³ He will not allow your foot to be moved;
He who keeps you will not slumber.
⁴ Behold, He who keeps Israel
Shall neither slumber nor sleep.

⁵ The Lord is your keeper;
The Lord is your shade at your right hand.
⁶ The sun shall not strike you by day,
Nor the moon by night.

⁷ The Lord shall preserve you from all evil;
He shall preserve your soul.
⁸ The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in
From this time forth, and even forevermore.

Have a great and blessed day. Be strong in the Lord.
Marty

Dealing with Disappointments 12/21/13

Good Morning,

Starting this morning with a cup of Door County Candy Cane Coffee and a prayer.

I must admit that this morning I am a little disappointed today. We were to be in Northern Michigan today visiting Dad for the weekend. An ice storm today and snow storm coming Sunday just made traveling to the Michigan Upper Peninsula a dangerous drive. Two people who I trust came to me and advised us not to try the drive. It was disappointing to talk with Dad and say we thought it best not to try. His words were "I love you so much that I'd rather you stay home". Dad lives alone now and does not receive a lot of visitors. I will admit it, as I said goodbye on the phone my eyes were blurry. I really wanted to see him.

Yesterday I prayed for safe travel and God's protection. I believe God sent people to us to tell us it would not be safe to try the journey. Then He sent my wife who has almost stood on her head tonight to make me feel better with compliments and a lot of "it's ok, I love you". Nothing seemed to help. So I turned to God and He spoke.

Isaiah 41:10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

God said, "I know".  I needed to trust His wisdom. Maybe Lake Michigan needs the water. Maybe there was certain danger on the road. Maybe God needs something from me today.

Isaiah 55:8-9

New King James Version (NKJV)

⁸ “For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord.
⁹ “For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.

So I must let go of the disappointment and trust God. He knows best.

Marty

Icy Roads 12/20/13

Good Morning,

Once again Friday and I have been reunited.
Time to head out the door with my hot cup of Door County White Christmas  Coffee.

The forecast today for Wisconsin is for a bout with ice and snow. I really don't mind the snow but driving on ice is really not something one looks forward to. But it's all part of that magical season of winter. As I listened to the forecast I thought about the drive to work and how just even a small mistake on the ice would make for a bad day with a crash and a broken car, maybe even an injury.

It doesn't take much to find yourself flying off the road and into a ditch. The road of life reminds me of an icy Wisconsin road. We travel through life headed to a destination and think we are doing well. That destination for Christians is to be more like Jesus every day. We all want to change and leave bad habits behind. But it seems that just a little temptation, when given into starts to pull us off the road and toward the ditch. Sometimes it pulls slowly and at other times it might pull us in deeply very quick. We need to be aware of the damage a little sin can cause.

Proverbs 21:16-18 (NIV)

¹⁶ Whoever strays from the path of prudence
    comes to rest in the company of the dead.

 

Hey Friends,

Keep her straight on the road and out of the ditch.

Love

Marty

A Cup Of Christmas Cheer 12/19/13

Good Morning,

I had a long night last night and I need my cup of coffee. Today's cup will be Door County Candy Cane Coffee.

Throughout many, many, years I have heard the expression of "Have a cup of Christmas cheer". I never quite understood that statement and for years I thought that it meant a cup of an alcoholic beverage. Which I am sure is what many people believe it means. Or it could be a cup of anything.

I want to propose a different thought.

 

The Lord the Shepherd of His People

A Psalm of David.

23 The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
² He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
³ He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.

⁴ Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

⁵ You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
⁶ Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell^[a] in the house of the Lord
Forever.

Friends, those who have received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior always have a cup of Christmas cheer. They are saved and will spend eternity with God. In fact their cup of cheer runs over. They know the true meaning of Christmas.

Merry Christmas, May your Christmas last for eternity.

Marty

Secret to A Long Marriage 12/18/13

Good Morning,

Time to wake up and down that first cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee and then head to work

Rene and I have two good friends that were blessed to celebrate 50 years of marriage. Our church, Faith Bible Church Greenfield Wisconsin, along with their family celebrated with them.

Ephesians 5:22-33                    
Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word,

         

Ephesians 5:31         

“Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.”

They don't know this but I have been watching them for a long time. It did not take long for me to figure out that this was a couple that would last. Here is what I observed,

1. They attend church.
2. They publicly express a love for Jesus Christ as a couple and individually.
3. God is the ultimate leader of the home.
4. Gary loves his wife as Jesus loves the church.
5. Penny is a strong woman yet submissive to the leadership of Gary and God.
6. They still hold hands and use endearing names for each other.
7. They both serve the Lord and the church.
8. They never talk down about each other.

I guess that is their secret. They must be a special couple. We know God was there that night and they also had a guest appearance who highly endorses this couple.

God bless,
Marty

Children Are a Gift 12/17/13

Good Morning,

A snowy evening last night in Wisconsin. Woke up to a cup of Door County White Christmas Coffee.

James 1:17         
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

December 17th 1978. My world changed that day like never before. Christmas came early for me. I remember that day like it was yesterday. The weather was cold and snowy. Traveling on the roads was difficult due to the snow and ice. Our Ford LTD was not doing too well in that mess. I never thought that I would be receiving a gift that day that would be wrapped tightly and yet be fragile at the same time. I was to receive a gift that I would never take back or exchange. This gift would remain a joy for years and years. It was the kind of gift that you give to your nephews just to drive your brother crazy. It was noisy yet so lovable. This gift was so precious that you just wanted to wake up in the middle of the night just to peek at the gift to make sure it was real. This gift could raise a stink like you never imagined and make a grown man wretch. But yet you wanted to hold the gift and make sure that the gift was safe. This gift made you look into the future and make plans. What seemed important the year before just wasn't that important anymore. This gift came from God.
This gift is my child. My little bundle of "the Energizer Bunny". Kristy Marie Schutte came into this world in a hurry that day and has kept me on my toes for all these years. I was blessed to have my name changed that day to Dad.

Cherish your kids. Let them know that they are gifts from God and that you love them.

Psalm 127:3        
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.

Love and Peace to All
Marty

Thoughts on the Twenty Third Psalm 12/16/13

Good Morning.

Monday and I am off to work in my Jeep with a thermos filled with Door County Apple cobbler Coffee.

Yesterday morning it was a little windy outside. I was greeted at 5AM by my two dogs Gibbs and Fritz who wanted to go out and then be fed. They really don't care that the alarm was set for 5:30. I could smell the coffee brewing already so I dressed, grabbed my coffee cup and went outside with them in the dark. I have concluded that my youngest dog Gibbs is afraid of the dark, shadows in the night, and weird noises. We have a plastic snowman in the front yard that is illuminated at night. The lights from the street had Frosty casting a strange shadow on the yard and the wind had the shadow moving around. Each time this would happen Gibbs would retreat from the his morning exploring and run to be next to me to save him from the wrath of the plastic snowman. I found this quite funny. But it brought me to thinking about the 23rd Psalm. I have added some thoughts below for you to ponder.

Psalm 23:4

 (KJV)

⁴ Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

 The valley of the shadow of death may denote the most severe and terrible affliction, or dark terrors of providence, that the psalmist ever could come under. Between the part of the flock on earth and that which is gone to heaven, death lies like a dark valley that must be passed in going from one to the other. But even in this there are words which lessen the terror. It is but the shadow of death: the shadow of a serpent will not sting, nor the shadow of a sword kill. It is a valley, deep indeed, and dark, and miry; but valleys are often fruitful, and so is death itself fruitful of comforts to God's people. It is a walk through it: they shall not be lost in this valley, but get safe to the mountain on the other side. Death is a king of terrors, but not to the sheep of Christ. When they come to die, God will rebuke the enemy; he will guide them with his rod, and sustain them with his staff. There is enough in the gospel to comfort the saints when dying, and underneath them are the everlasting arms.

The worst thing that could ever happen is not being saved by Jesus and lost for eternity to hell. Those who have called upon Jesus and have invited Him in to be Lord, Savior and Shepherd of their lives have no fear. The worst can never happen to them.

Make this a Christmas to remember. Receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior today. Or pass this on to someone who might just need to hear these words.

(John 3:16) "¶ For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

(John 11:25-26) "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: {26} And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?"

(Acts 16:31) "And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house."

(Romans 10:9-10) "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. {10} For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

God bless,
Marty

Come Sit By the Fire 12/15/13

Good Morning.

I am starting this morning in prayer and a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Meltdown Coffee.

Last night I found myself sitting up late reading my Bible. Rene went to bed early because her shift at the Medical Center in the morning started at 4:30 AM. It was cold in Wisconsin last night with a fresh snowfall all around. It was so quiet except for the fireplace crackling into the night. A fresh cup of Sweet Dreams Tea was at my side.

It was a special time of quiet, refection and rest. We all need time like that. Time to just open God's Word and let Jesus speak. This night was another Christmas gift from God. For a few short hours  the world was on hold for me. Nothing else mattered at all.

Romans 12:2    
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.         

Philippians 4:8                  
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

We all need times like these. It doesn't take a fireplace or tea. It could be a kitchen table or a park bench. But Friends take that time. It is worth every minute.

God bless,
Marty

 

    

Steak for Breakfast? Mother Knew Better 12/14/13

Good Morning World!

My coffee this morning is super hot and very tasty. I have filled my cup with Door County Pumpkin Spice coffee.

I love breakfast. As a kid I used to tell my mother that I was going to eat steak and eggs at my house when I was on my own and I would eat it every day. I also told her that when I grew up I would never wash another dish. I must still be in my childhood because I don't have steak every day  and I still wash dishes quite often. She told me to call her so she could witness me eating steak for breakfast every day. She must have thought she was raising the village idiot. No Comments Today!

As I sit here eating my oat meal I wonder "what happened? Where's the beef?"

Well, reality set in. If I wanted steak everyday I would be getting up earlier than I do now just to cook it. My cholesterol would be off the charts. I would own a ranch just to raise beef. I would have saddle sores from herding cattle on a horse. And I would have worn out a set of teeth by now. If I did not wash dishes from time to time I would be living alone. I would be working after herding cattle at a truck stop just to buy paper plates and plastic cups. And I would only have a clean coffee cup once a week.

So what is the devotional here? Mother knew best. We can learn from our elders and should take every chance we get to sit and listen. We are never too old to learn from the more experienced. These people are precious gifts to us from God.

Proverbs 1:8        
Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother's teaching,

God bless,
Go wash the dishes and listen to your elders.

Marty

Marriage a Four Letter Word 12/13/13

Good Morning,

Friday morning and it feels so good. My coffee cup is full of Door County Jingle Bell Java today.

I love Christmas. For some reason the Mrs. and I really get into the season. I enjoy shopping for her. We don't spend a lot of money on each other. But we spend time on picking out the perfect little gifts. Many years ago our daughter and my wife used paint pens to decorate two pair of pantyhose as their Christmas stockings. My job was to fill the hosiery with goodies and gifts. So I know that my wife loves Goldfish Crackers, custard gift certificates from Leon's, sugar free marshmallow Christmas candy, cashews, old movies, jewelry and other things. This did not happen overnight for me. When we were dating and our first Christmas came around I bought her a crock pot and a sweater. I can still see her face when she opened that crock pot. It actually was better than the face she made when I bought her a fishing pole the next year.

Here's the deal. Marriage is made up of several four letter words.

1. Love.
1 John 4:7  Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.

2. Work
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
⁹ Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their work:
¹⁰ If one falls down,
his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls
and has no one to help him up!
¹¹ Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
¹² Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

3.Bear
Ephesians 4:2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,

We love one another and I cannot imagine what life would be like without Rene. But it takes love. We both love God and that is the best place to start. God teaches us how to love unconditionally. Rene loved me so much that she never said a word about the crock pot. She never used it, but she never complained. Just recently I said "boy did I blow that first Christmas with a crock pot." I received a smile and a laugh. I was told "not that bad I stuck around for a lot more."

Work at your marriage. You will see as you get older it pays off as health deteriorates and you rely on each other more. Working together right away in the beginning sets a pattern for later. It becomes a joy and labor of love.

Bear. I did not need Rene nor did she need me. We chose to share the rest of our lives together. That means the good and the bad. Sometimes it's tough to live with me. Imagine that????? And at times Rene has a stubborn streak. But is it really worth an argument? Not really, accept each other and bear up with each others weird habits and imperfections at times. It is more peaceful and often brings a laugh.

I better remember the cashews!

Love to all,
Marty

The Star On Top Of The Christmas Tree 12/12/13

Good Morning Friends and Family,

It sure was cold here last night. This morning only a gallon of Door County Cherry Crème Coffee will warm me up. That is my plan and I am sticking to it.

When Rene and I put up our Christmas Tree every year we always start with putting the tree into the stand making sure that it is straight and secured so it won't tip over.

The second step is to place the a lighted star at the top of the tree and then decorate downward from there.

When I look at the tree it reminds me of Jesus and my life. Jesus is the base in my life. Without Him as my base I would easily tip over and the world would eat me up and spit me out.

Luke 6:47-49

New King James Version (NKJV)

⁴⁷ Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: ⁴⁸ He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock.^{[a] 49} But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell.^[b] And the ruin of that house was great.”

 

So with Jesus as the foundation or (tree stand) of my life I understand that His words are life to me. Without Him I would fail.

 

But when I look at the top and see the start illuminated and shining bright I know that Jesus will also come back for me and call me home some day. I have something always to look forward to. That great day when I will see Him face to face and He will bring me before the Father. He will finish what He started in me many years ago.

 

Hebrews 12:2

New King James Version (NKJV)

² looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

That's what I see when I look at our Christmas Tree. What do you see when you look at yours?

God bless,
Marty

 

 

 

Anger and Christmas It Just Doesn't Mix 12/11/13

Good Morning,

Starting today with a hot cup of Door County Christmas Coffee. It's a cold one here today. Expecting a low tonight of twelve degrees below zero.

I have heard it said over the years by people that it is "hard for me to get into the Christmas Spirit". I usually like to listen then and calculate what I hear after that statement. Usually something has happened in life and things did not go according to their plans. After I listen for a few moments it comes out. They are angry at their situation. I have actually heard people say because of a crisis "there is no God". So to solve all their issues they get angry and let everyone know they are angry, I guess misery loves company.

The Bible has a lot to say about anger management.

Bible Verses About Anger - Get a biblical perspective on dealing with anger and how to handle emotions. Read Bible quotes about being angry and not sinning. Discover how to live free from the control of anger.

• Ephesians 4:26-31

  "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,  and do not give the devil a foothold.  He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.  Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.  And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.  Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
                             

• James 1:19-20

  My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,  for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.
                              

• Proverbs 29:11

  A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.
                             

• James 1:20

  for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.
                             

• Proverbs 19:11

  A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.
                              

• Ecclesiastes 7:9

  Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.
                             

• Proverbs 15:1

  A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
                             

• Proverbs 15:18

  A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.
                             

• Colossians 3:8

  But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.
                             

• James 4:1-2

  What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?  You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God.
                             

• Proverbs 16:32

  Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city.
                             

• Proverbs 22:24

  Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered,
                             

• Matthew 5:22

  But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca, ' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.
                             

• Psalm 37:8-9

  Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret--it leads only to evil.  For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land.

 

Sometimes we need to look at who and why we are angry. If we look into the mirror it is probably the person staring back at you. Anger never solves anything. It just makes us miserable and those around us miserable too.

 

Take heed. There are many more verses on anger. God must consider anger management quite important.

 

God bless,

Marty

Old Friends Snoops and Fritz

Good Morning.
I pray your day goes well. I started today with a cup of Door County Maple coffee and a heavy heart.

I received a call from my friend Jim yesterday. The time had come when he had to say goodbye to his dear friend and hunting companion Snoops. Snoops is the black lab pictured above with my springer Fritz. Tears welled in my eyes as Jim told me of the trip he was making to the vet. My heart goes out to Jim, Marcie and Ethan. Snoops was suffering and it was time to put her down. I have hunted over Fritz and Snoops for a lot of years. Snoops is a year older than Fritz and a lot of what Fritz knows now he learned from Snoops. They never had a cross moment between the two of them and they were always happy to see each other, hunt together and at times play together. "Two Old Friends"

I think we can all be taught a lesson today one more time from Snoops. You see Friends, some day our last day will come too.

Psalm 90:12        
So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.

Our days are all numbered. Will we leave this world with a cross word and bad memory between us? Or will we have shared our last Krispy Kreme in a boat together? Life is short. Too short to not visit our friends and relatives. Too short not to love and laugh with those we care about. Too short not to share. Too short not to care. Too short to carry a grudge.

Fritz learned a lot from Snoops. Today let Snoops teach us a lesson.

God bless you all. Live well, be at peace with your friends and family.

Marty

Thieves In The Night 12/9/13

Good Morning,

My cup is filled with Door County Christmas Coffee. I need a hot cup to start a long day.

This story is true.. I lived the experience. Last week a load of firewood was delivered to our home and unloaded in the driveway on Friday. The pile was quite large and with my weekend schedule pretty filled with work and church events I was worried that I would not get the pile stacked in it's proper place before a snow storm came Sunday. ( which it did)  My plan was to preach Saturday night and then get up good an early to move the pile Sunday morning before the snow flew.

 

 

 

So that's what I did. But much to my surprise when I opened the garage door and put on my work gloves the pile of wood was gone. Rene and I had gone to be about 11:30 PM. I never heard the thieves stealing our wood. The dogs never barked which started me to think about the worth of two dogs who don't hear a wood pile being stolen. (The picture above shows one half of the wood.) This really bothered me. I started a rental car that we are using while my Jeep is being repaired. Both of the keys are on a cable. So what you have are two keys that cannot be separated on one cable. As I slammed the door, the locks triggered and now the keys were inside a locked car that was running. And my wood pile was missing!!!!!!!!! I decided to drink a cup of coffee and calm down after I called AAA for assistance with the keys. I walked into the backyard and saw that my wood pile had been moved to it's proper location and neatly stacked. ( In the middle of the night) I still questioned our dogs worth as watch dogs. It didn't take too long to figure out that one family from church had performed that duty to surprise us with a gift of their hard labor. The joke was on me. No thieves just God's workers loving on us. We were blessed once again. We want to say thank you to them here on the blog. We love you guys and are laughing pretty hard.

 

 

Ecclesiastes 3:4        

A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

I guess I wept, laughed, mourned, and danced, and never left the driveway.

Love you all,
Marty

Standing on Holy Ground. 12/8/13

Good Morning.

This day is already beautiful and it's very early on Sunday. My coffee today is Door County Pumpkin Spice. Sometimes you just need to spice up your life and today is one of those days for me.

Luke 2:10–14

10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

14 “Glory to God in the highest,

And on earth peace, good will toward men!”

Last night we held our annual Christmas Caroling to the nursing homes in my neighborhood. One in particular is very close to our home. My wife and I did not go to the homes but stayed backed putting the final touches on the hot food and beverages that would be served to those who had gone out. One lady who was to go and sing arrived to our home late. It seems the map we gave out just wasn't working for her. She seemed bothered that she would miss the singing to the elderly. I explained that the teams had just left and that we could walk to one of the nursing homes in less than two minutes and she could catch up.



We left our home and took the short walk over. It was a silent night, and I might say a holy night as folks ministered to the elderly, gave gifts, and shared the love of Jesus. But as we approached the nursing home I could hear the singing outside. My friend went in and I proceeded to go home. But I stopped long enough to listen. I could hear the aged and my friends all singing "Silent Night". As I said, there was no wind to speak of and the very cold air carried the music and it seemed to surround me. I said to out loud " Hear that Lord? This is for You." How beautiful it was to be standing there actually hearing those who love Jesus, love others. Of course I knew that God could hear the music. But He put me in a place where for just a moment it was just Him and me and true worship all around. I knew what He was telling me. "This is beautiful, but this is just a glimpse of what you will hear and see some day." Oh what those shepherds heard on the night Christ was born. I can only imagine. I can only wonder what is in store in heaven.

The rest of the night went great. Soup, cider, Door County Coffee and great friends enjoying some time away from the hurried and busy December schedules. But as we had fellowship and laughed I knew I had stood for a short moment on holy ground and God let me hear something I will never forget.

May your day be merry and bright. I know my day is going to be white.

Love you all.
Marty

The Orchestra and Pheasants12/7/13

Good Morning December 7th .
It is a cold, cold day here in Wisconsin. My coffee today is a hot cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java.

I want to take a moment and pause to remember December 7th 1941. This was the day that the United States was attacked at Pearl Harbor and brought  America into World War Two. Many if not most of those brave men and women who served on now gone. But we must and will take this moment to say "Thank You".

Isaiah 30:20-21
 ²⁰ Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. ²¹ Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” ²²

An orchestra in order play to perfection has to practice and be in sync with all the different musicians and movements of the music written for them. The orchestra conductor leads the production with a wave of his hand or baton. Now musicians can all be good and some have more experience than others. But they must be directed on time and must cooperate or what they would end up with would sound like 50 different radio stations at one time. I'll bet that our lives often seem like that. 50 different things trying to pull us 50 different ways. Timing is always off.

The same is with a bird dog and hunting. Many of you know that I have been training my Puppy Gibbs to hunt. He still has a way to go. But yesterday we guided for a charity bird hunt. The little guy who is now sleeping at my feet as this is written was ready to go. He hit the brush on command and proceeded to hunt. From time to time he was encouraged to go on, and at times directed by my whistle to go right or left. Now a dog does hunt with his nose and that is to be trusted. But if the dog gets hot on to a bird and goes ahead too quickly the hunters will be too far away and will not get a shot when the bird flushes. Timing is every thing.  Yesterday went very well and Gibbs performed a great orchestra of field work. His one mistake cost him some pain. I had concluded that the hunt was over and told him to walk by my side. He still wanted to hunt and as we walked he scented a pheasant in the wind and broke from my side and before he responded to the whistle to stop he was in a mess of briers and burrs that proved to be painful when removed later. Poor little dude is still sore today. It was a great hunt and we have the birds to prove it. But is had one flaw that I don't think Gibbs will forget.

That happens to us also. We respond to the world too quickly before listening for God and we get "burred up". God desires to direct our life's orchestra and will give us direction. But we need to listen and obey the conductors signals.  Life is hard enough without charging ahead into trouble when the Leader is saying stop.  Listen, Listen, Listen. Be in prayer and be in God's Word. The obey the whistle,

Have a merry day.
Marty

Have Kind Thoughts and Say Kind Words Today 12/6/13

Good Morning,

Happy Friday. My morning is starting with a hot cup of Door County Maple Coffee.

Today I want to challenge everyone to have kind thoughts toward one another and say kind words to someone today. Someone told me how much they appreciated the devotional yesterday and that they knew I was thinking about them.
This is very true. Each morning when I awake and pour that first cup of coffee I say "thank you Lord, this tastes good." My thoughts then turn to two dear family members who were struggling financially at one time but yet made sure that I had a cup of coffee when I visited even though coffee was an expense that they could not afford. They went without something else to give me a cup of coffee. Just writing this puts a tear in my eye.

You see friends I will admit that I had a very rough day yesterday and getting a note of encouragement meant a lot to me. We can put on our "nasty hats" or decide to be nice and supportive of others in words and deeds.  God has a lot to say about how we should behave toward others. As a matter of fact he expects it of His children.

Proverbs 16:24 ESV        
Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

Your words are your choice. They are as kind as you choose them to be. You have the power within you to make the day brighter for someone by just speaking a word of love or kindness.

Psalm 27:13 ESV         
I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!

You are where you are and each person was made by God. If you look for the good in a person because God desires us to do so you will find it. You will discover that the grumpiness has left the chambers of your heart and mind and you will want to say kind things. Look around you. There are people within speaking distance.

So here is my shot at this today. Thank you for reading this devotional. You are loved. May God bless you all. And you two coffee elves know who you are. My heart misses you more than you know.

Have a great weekend. Be safe.

Marty