New Homes 6/30/13

Good Evening,

I started my day with coffee while staying at the Gateway Lodge in Northern Wisconsin. I did not have my usual Door County Coffee. I really did miss it.

My wife and I traveled home today and we passed through some small cities that are in the Fox River Valley of Central Wisconsin. This area has really grown and we noticed that there were many new homes being constructed in areas we usually drive by.

Psalm 127:1

Unless the Lord builds the house, 

They labor in vain who build it; Unless the Lord guards the city, The watchman stays awake in vain

I could not help but wonder about all the families in these new homes. How many would see the tragedy of divorce? How many would see a child or teen run away? How many would see some type of drug addiction enter the home? I did not wonder about the construction of the house. They all looked very nice from the highway. I am sure they were all built with quality. But Who is the builder of each home?

Psalm 127 has a serious and grim message that reminds us that unless God builds our homes (spiritually) we all labor in vain. But it does not have to be grim. As each home owner chose a builder for the house. We must all choose Who will build our homes.

Joshua 24:15

New King James Version (NKJV)

¹⁵ And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

The choice is ours.

God bless,
Marty

Hot Coffee and a Thermos 6/28/13

Good Morning,

Started my day with some Door County Hawaiian Hazelnut Coffee. I recently had someone ask where I go for coffee so early in the morning that serves Door County Coffee. To tell you the truth I go to my kitchen. I brew it daily. The Door County Coffee Company is located in Northern Wisconsin in the Door County Peninsula. My wife and I like to vacation and rest there. I can order it on-line or some of our local stores carry it. www.doorcountycoffee.com  I highly recommend it.

Many years ago when starting out in the work force my parents gave me a Thermos to keep my coffee hot and me warm. I am 56 years old now and I still have that thermos. They paid good money for it and I have used it for work and hunting. Even on the coldest of days I have been able to count on it  to dispense a nice hot cup of cider or coffee. I usually hunt with someone else along with the dog and myself. Many a cold night has gone by when right after loading the boat on to the truck after a duck and goose hunt I have opened my thermos and offered a cold buddy a hot cup of cider.

We both will usually say "boy that hit the spot".

There are two ways to look at this as a devotional.

#1 James 2:16
If one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?

We are to share and provide for the comfort of others.

#2 Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
Psalm 73:23, 24

Like my Thermos God can always be counted on even in the dark and cold of the night. He never let's us down. There is nothing like God to warm a heart.

Love you all.
Marty

Physical Therapy 6/27/13

Good Morning,

The coffee in my cup this morning is Door County Chocolate Meltdown.

The process of my shoulder repair is going well. I have graduated to the real therapy now. What I mean by that is the new round has quite a bit of pain and discomfort. I have two wonderful therapists working to help me achieve my goal of being able to hunt geese in September. As I wince they encourage me to keep going. With this one the old saying "no pain no gain" is appropriate.

Folks I am not whining. Just explaining the process. God loves all of His children and He desires us to be the best we can be in Jesus. But as God refines us through the Holy Spirit there are times of pain.

James 1  (NKJV) Greeting to the Twelve Tribes

1 James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,

To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad:
Greetings.

Profiting from Trials

² My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, ³ knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. ⁴ But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. ⁵ If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. ⁶ But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. ⁷ For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; ⁸ he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

Like physical therapy we grow and "get better" when we go through some pain. We can see the goal and we strive to become more like Jesus. Just as this little pain will help me achieve my goal of goose hunting. If you are going through a trial now let me pray for you. If someone you know is going through a trial encourage them to the end. Help them achieve the goal.

God bless
Marty

Be Teachable 6/26/2013

Good Morning!!!!!

My coffee cup will be filled soon with Door County Cherry Creme very soon!

If I were to give advice to anyone from the age of 18 to 100 or beyond is to remain "teachable". Things change so fast now. Just when I think I have purchased the latest technology something else makes it antiquated in a year. Often this requires new training. Training, training, training.

That is how it should be in our Christian walk. Remember God sees us all despite our age as His children. At what age do we really know it all and can approach God and tell Him how the world should spin? I believe that God requires us all to be teachable right to the end. His word said so.

Isaiah 64:8
Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand

Many times before a jar becomes a jar the potter starts over with the clay. He molds it and it looks good and then he sees a flaw and starts over. God starts over with us each day desiring to see us grow in knowledge, trust and faith.

Are you teachable yet?

Marty

Niagara Falls and God 6/25/13

Good Morning,
Starting today with a big cup of Door County Hawaiian Hazelnut Coffee.

God has created all things. I have had the pleasure of seeing many things like canyons, roaring rivers, shooting stars, beautiful sunsets, mirror like lakes, icicles, a full moon and some waterfalls.

Waterfalls amaze me, with their turbulence, noise and the mist that comes from the water smashing against rocks. I have been blessed to see a frozen waterfall. You could hear the water rushing but all you could see was a huge wall of ice. My wife and I made a visit to Niagara Falls a few years back. You could just feel the ground shake as you approached as close as you could get to the falls. It made me think about the many historical and beautiful monuments that one could visit around the world. Our capital Washington DC has many beautiful and ornate man made monuments. But Niagara Falls was created by God and is a monument unto Him. Now and then my mind wanders to the places I have seen or visited. It's OK to do that. I see God in creation. Thinking about that beauty at times will slow me down, calm my fears, reduce stress, bring peace, and draw me closer to God. I am reminded of His power and love for us. Niagara Falls reminds me of God in that He cannot be contained and is all powerful.

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.


Have a wonderful day. God bless.

Marty



     

Tractor Repairs 6/24/13

Good Morning.

Monday always seems to return. So I am kicking off today with physical therapy on my shoulder and hot cup of Door County Chocolate Melt Down Coffee.

Psalm 34:17          
When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.

Well most of you know that I am still recovering from shoulder surgery. My wife and nephews have been stuck with all the yard work because of this. I came home one evening and found the lawn tractor parked with my wife looking at it with the neighbor. It was broken! Of course I tried to figure it out with one arm.  Then I found out that it is hard to get up off the concrete with one arm. One politician once said "it takes a village to raise a child".  I went inside, ate supper and prayed about the tractor. I knew it could be repaired, but not with me having just one arm right now. Well of course the first two to respond to my troubles were my two buddies Big John and Little Steve. John had just blown out his knee and Steve was heading to foot surgery in a day or two. I tell you this. We are all pretty good mechanically but with our limitations we really resembled the Three Stooges. The repairs took several days because of part availability. In the mean time the grass kept growing despite my prayers that it would slow down. (Imagine that).

So one of our Pastor's (Ryan) always asks how he can help people. I swallowed my pride and asked if we could borrow his lawn mower during the repair process. It was delivered to our home in no time flat. I need to ask him if he went home and prayed that his grass growth would slow down!

My point here is that in time of trouble my church responded in word and deed. The tractor is fixed, Steve and I are still mending and John is headed to surgery. Pastor Ryan has his lawn mower returned and I am assuming his son is thrilled to have it back now!

If you are a Christian and are not part of the local Bible based church you are missing out on "family time". My church family was an answer to my cry to God for some wisdom and help.

I took half the village to raise the tractor!

Join a Bible believing church and become active in it.

God bless,
Marty

Daughters and Dads 6/23/13

 Good Morning,

Starting my day with a hot cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee.

Proverbs 22:6

New King James Version (NKJV)

⁶ Train up a child in the way he should go,
And when he is old he will not depart from it. 

I find myself deep in thought. I have to work for a little bit this morning, and then it's off to church. I haven't written about my daughter in my blog much. But today is her day in the barrel. I am very proud of her.

She and I are in some ways much alike and in some ways not. I guess that is why her DNA is 50% me!

I like the cold- she likes the heat. Wisconsin vs Florida
I like the Waffle House - she prefers the Cracker Barrel
I used to work out a lot- she still does
We both like to help others.
We both like to teach.
I can't carry a tune and she can sing beautifully.
I like guns and hunting-she tried it twice. (I think she is done now)
We both like dogs.
We are both loyal to family.
We are not afraid to work hard.
We both like naps and mashed potatoes.
I am a stubborn old cuss and let's just say she is too. She will disagree but then we both like to disagree at times.
I like to cook- and she is a great cook.
I think sushi smells like sweat socks and she eats it.
I am me and she is beautiful. Not my 50% of the DNA

One memory I cherish is when we were both involved in the same ministry. She was a teen and I was a youth worker. We found ourselves answering a late night hot line for troubled people once a month on Fridays. Usually at 4AM we were finished and would grab a bite to eat at an all night restaurant. We differ there also. She would have breakfast and I would have cheese burgers and chili. I have high cholesterol and I am not sure about hers. I need to ask!

Back to the point. It was one Friday a month, we were trained on what to say and do. We prayed a lot, before, during and after our assigned time of answering the phone. We helped quite a few people in the process and some to find their way to Jesus.  I remember some of those nights like they were yesterday. You would think the birthdays, past holidays, watching her sing in performances, getting married, bringing us a grandson, seeing her as a cheerleader, all the things she has accomplished would be the things I remember most. I do cherish each one. But what I remember is the talks we had on the way home and the contentment we had in serving together. I can still see the twinkle in her eyes when she knew she had reached a troubled soul with help.

Recently she called me and said she was on her way home with her son. They had just finished serving a meal at a local children's home. My heart was filled to the brim with pride. Yet another emotion took over. I found myself being just a little jealous. I would have loved to have done that with them. I could not see them but I could hear the twinkle in her eyes. I miss the twinkle.

The apple did not fall too far from the tree. Spend time serving the Lord with your kids. Let them take the lead when appropriate. If they have an idea run with it. Those late Friday nights were not my idea. The sleeping in late on Saturday I will take credit for!

I love her and I am proud to say she is mine.

God bless,
Marty

I believe in Jesus 6/22/13

Oh Saturday, why does the coffee always taste better on a Saturday? My coffee this morning is Door County Highlander Grog.

Many years ago in our church we used to sing a chorus that went like this.
I believe in Jesus
I believe He is the Son of God
I believe He died and rose again
I believe He paid for us all

And I believe He is here now
Standing in our midst
Here With the power to heal now
And the grace to forgive

I believe in You, Lord
I believe You are the Son of God
I believe You died and rose again
I believe You paid for us all.

And I believe You're here now
Standing in our midst
Here With the power to heal now
And the grace to forgive

I guess if you were to sum up my life and ask me what I believe, this chorus would say it all.
The following Bible verse is the icing on the cake of my life.

Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Have a great day,
Marty

Keys In The Junk Drawer 6/21/13

Good Morning,
Happy Friday and I really mean it. I started today with a big cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee.

If you are at all like us somewhere in your home you have a crate, box, or drawer that holds a bunch of junk. Some of the stuff you use now and then. Tape, glue, tacks, string, pens, scissors, rubber bands etc.

I noticed in our drawer that in one container way in the back we had several key rings with a few keys on each. I asked my wife if she recalled what the keys were for. So the adventure was on. We found that we had keys from our first mini van purchased in 1987. That one was put to scrap many years ago. We found some keys to locks that we cannot find. We also found keys to cabinets that were thrown out in 1994. More keys were found from other vehicles that have long ago been junked or sold.
All in all, out of about 40 keys we found, two that were still useful.

Did you know that Jesus also holds keys?
Revelation 1:18

I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.

Jesus is explaining here. He is the same one who took on the form of flesh and died on the cross for our sins. The resurrected Jesus makes a proclamation of His victory over death. He rose never to die again. The humanity of Jesus sits at the right hand of the throne of God forever. He is throughout eternity the unique person of the universe. Death will never make any claims on Him again. Jesus died on the cross. John saw Him dead on the cross. Jesus’ death on the cross gave Him authority over death. That is why He has the keys of Hades and Death.

Death can no longer affect Jesus and it can no longer affect the Christian. Once we become Christians, we become children of Heaven.

“Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed—in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: ‘Death is swallowed up in victory.”O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?’” (1 Corinthians 15:51-55).

I bet He doesn't forget what He holds the keys to.

Have a great day,

Marty

Lessons from Proverbs Chapter 20 6/20/13

Good Morning,

May your Thursday be a blessing to you. I am starting this day with a hot cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee along with some physical therapy for my healing shoulder.

 

In the last couple of weeks I have been showing you how to establish a good habit of reading a chapter from the book of Proverbs each day that coincides with the date. I have copied chapter 20 below for us. I have highlighted where God laid something on my heart and the action He would have me take. As I have mentioned before this is a practice that our Senior Pastor recommends to everyone.

Proverbs 20

New King James Version (NKJV)

20 Wine is a mocker,
Strong drink is a brawler,
And whoever is led astray by it is not wise.

² The wrath^[a] of a king is like the roaring of a lion;
Whoever provokes him to anger sins against his own life.

³ It is honorable for a man to stop striving,
Since any fool can start a quarrel.

⁴ The lazy man will not plow because of winter;
He will beg during harvest and have nothing.

⁵ Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water,
But a man of understanding will draw it out.

⁶ Most men will proclaim each his own goodness,
But who can find a faithful man?

⁷ The righteous man walks in his integrity;
His children are blessed after him.

⁸ A king who sits on the throne of judgment
Scatters all evil with his eyes.

⁹ Who can say, “I have made my heart clean,
I am pure from my sin”?

¹⁰ Diverse weights and diverse measures,
They are both alike, an abomination to the Lord.

¹¹ Even a child is known by his deeds,
Whether what he does is pure and right.

¹² The hearing ear and the seeing eye,
The Lord has made them both.

¹³ Do not love sleep, lest you come to poverty;
Open your eyes, and you will be satisfied with bread.

¹⁴ “It is good for nothing,”^[b] cries the buyer;
But when he has gone his way, then he boasts.

¹⁵ There is gold and a multitude of rubies,
But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.

¹⁶ Take the garment of one who is surety for a stranger,
And hold it as a pledge when it is for a seductress.

¹⁷ Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man,
But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel.

¹⁸ Plans are established by counsel;
By wise counsel wage war.

¹⁹ He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets;
Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips.

²⁰ Whoever curses his father or his mother,
His lamp will be put out in deep darkness.

²¹ An inheritance gained hastily at the beginning
Will not be blessed at the end.

²² Do not say, “I will recompense evil”;
Wait for the Lord, and He will save you.

²³ Diverse weights are an abomination to the Lord,
And dishonest scales are not good.

²⁴ A man’s steps are of the Lord;
How then can a man understand his own way?

²⁵ It is a snare for a man to devote rashly something as holy,
And afterward to reconsider his vows.
²⁶ A wise king sifts out the wicked,
And brings the threshing wheel over them.

²⁷ The spirit of a man is the lamp of the Lord,
Searching all the inner depths of his heart.^[c]

²⁸ Mercy and truth preserve the king,
And by loving kindness he upholds his throne.

²⁹ The glory of young men is their strength,
And the splendor of old men is their gray head.

³⁰ Blows that hurt cleanse away evil,
As do stripes the inner depths of the heart.

 

What I learned for today in verse 3 is that it is very easy to argue but most arguments are not worth the struggle. Then in verse 29 I am reminded that at my age I should already know verse 3 and should be practicing it.

 

What about you? Willing to share a comment today? What did you learn from God?

 

Have a great day.

Marty

Retirement Plan 6/19/13

Good Morning,

Half way through the work week. Today I am leaving the house with a large cup of Door County Chocolate Meltdown Coffee.

Well it is a true fact that my wife and I are approaching the retirement season of our lives in a few years. We have talked and prayed about what we might do for the future. Many years ago we adopted a Bible verse for our home.

Joshua 24:15

New King James Version (NKJV)

¹⁵ And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

During different times in our lives we were more active within our church than others. But I cannot remember a time in our marriage when we were not serving the Lord and church in some way or another.

What is nice to know is that we might retire from secular work we can still be used by God and He does not have a retirement age.

Promises to Abram

12 Now the Lord had said to Abram:

“Get out of your country,
From your family
And from your father’s house,
To a land that I will show you.
² I will make you a great nation;
I will bless you
And make your name great;
And you shall be a blessing.
³ I will bless those who bless you,
And I will curse him who curses you;
And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

⁴ So Abram departed as the Lord had spoken to him, and Lot went with him. And Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.

You see 75 years old and God still had a plan to use Abraham. When God looks at us He does not see old men and women. He sees His children.

Have a great day.
Marty

Sears, JC Penny, and Montgomery Wards 6/18/13

Good Morning.
Today is a day for me that must be started with a hot cup of Door County Hawaiian Hazelnut Coffee.

When I was young we used to look forward to the catalogues that would come by mail. This is very pre-Internet shopping on-line. Sears and Roebuck, JC Penny, and Montgomery Wards were the ones that would come to our home. We would spend hours going through the pages that interested us and wonder what it would be like to be able to purchase all the things you wanted. My parents often referred to the catalogues as the "wish books".

Did you know that God also has a book?

Revelation 20:15 - And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

Luke 10:20 - Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

God's book is not a wish book. It is a book of facts. Those who have invited Jesus in and made Him Lord and Savior of their lives, accepting His atonement for our sins have their names written in God's book. This does not have to be an unattainable wish. You can place an order sure to be delivered by calling on the name of the Lord to be saved. The gift is non-returnable with eternity for warranty.

Think about it. Pray about it. God is calling you today.
God bless,
Marty

Hope for tomorrow. 6/17/2013

Good Morning Dear Friends.

I am starting my day with a hot cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee. OK Monday let's go!

Yesterday my wife and I had the privilege to attend the high school graduation for one of our nephews. It was quite a nice affair. I am not sure how many graduates there were but I would guess at least 200. As I always do during long ceremonies my mind starts to wander. I started to wonder what their future would hold. They were all excited to start a new page in their lives. But again I thought what does the future hold for them? I don't really know. But I know this. We need to be praying for our young graduates. They will all face some trials during their lives. We all have young people we know and love. We can be there and give a graduation gift, but I think we owe them more than that. We need to pray for these kids.

Put them on your list, write their names where you will see them. Then remember to pray for their future jobs, future mates, future choices, their health, and their faith. We owe it to them.

Ephesians 3:20-21
20Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

God bless,
Marty

Fathers Day 6-16-13

Good Morning,
Starting my day with a cup of Door County Chocolate Melt Down Coffee this morning..

Today is Father's day and for some that brings great and fond memories of a Dad who was everything he could be to you, or for some, memories that are not so fond. In some cases there are the unfortunate children who never met their Dad. This is always a day that is hard to write about. There is never the perfect thing to say.

But one thing I know is this. We all have a Heavenly Father that is easy to write about.

A Father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families, he leads forth the prisoners with singing." - Psalm 68:5-6

"How much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" - Matthew 7:11

"Your Father in heaven is not willing that any one of these little ones should be lost." - Matthew 18:14

We have a Heavenly Father that can be counted on 24/7 and never will he leave us nor forsake us. Men are human and will fail, and even pass away. But God is our constant and He loves you. He showed his love for us.

Romans 5:8

New King James Version (NKJV)

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

Today pray for Dads everywhere that we all can be models of what God intended. If you or your dad does not know the love of Jesus within your heart make today the day that you invite Him in to your heart as Lord and Savior. Pray that your Dad would also make that decision.

God bless,
Marty

The Myrtle Tree 6/15/13

Good morning,
Besides having a cup of coffee every morning ( Today I am drinking Door County Highlander Grog) I listen to the radio and one of my favorite stations broadcasts a daily Bible verse. This week I listened to Isaiah 55:13. It peaked my curiosity to finally look up and find out what a Myrtle tree was. Myrtle was also the name of my grandmother.

Isaiah. 55: 13
13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.

The myrtle (Myrtus communis) grows as either a shrub or a tree and is common in Israel and Lebanon, growing well in stony soil. It is capable of reaching a height of 9 m (30 ft) but is usually found as a shrub 2 to 3 m (7 to 10 ft) high. An evergreen, it is quite bushy in branch structure and has thick, shiny, dark-green leaves; it blossoms with clusters of fragrant white flowers that mature into blue-black berries. Almost the entire plant has a fragrant spicy oil used in perfumes. The berries, though aromatic, are edible. The myrtle is found today particularly in Upper Galilee and the valley of the Jordan, but it also grows in the Jerusalem area, as it evidently did at the time of Zechariah’s vision recorded at Zechariah 1:8-11, 16.

Fragrant branches of myrtle were used along with the branches of other trees to cover the temporary outdoor huts or booths used by the Hebrews during the Festival of Booths. (Ne 8:14, 15) In the restoration prophecies the myrtle tree with its fragrance and beauty is foretold to grow in place of the stinging nettle and to spring up even in the wilderness.—Isa 41:19; 55:13.

The significance here in the verse is that among places with thorns and weeds something beautiful can grow. As Jesus came to Earth as a man he grew in sinless beauty among us just as the Myrtle tree does. The tree is very fragrant as we are to be. Fragrant with the love of Jesus.

So! Now you know and so do I.

God bless,
Marty

Proverbs 14 for Friday. With a Recipe 6/14/13

Dear Friends,

We made it. Friday is here once again and I am greeting the morning with some Door County Heaveny Caramel Coffee.

 

I want to finish this work week teaching us again that we can read a chapter of Proverbs each day and then ask God to help us apply it to our lives.  I have copied the chapter below and have highlighted in red where God spoke to me and what I need to apply.

Proverbs 14

New King James Version (NKJV)

14 The wise woman builds her house,
But the foolish pulls it down with her hands.

² He who walks in his uprightness fears the Lord,
But he who is perverse in his ways despises Him.

³ In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride,
But the lips of the wise will preserve them.

⁴ Where no oxen are, the trough is clean;
But much increase comes by the strength of an ox.

⁵ A faithful witness does not lie,
But a false witness will utter lies.

⁶ A scoffer seeks wisdom and does not find it,
But knowledge is easy to him who understands.
⁷ Go from the presence of a foolish man,
When you do not perceive in him the lips of knowledge.

⁸ The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way,
But the folly of fools is deceit.

⁹ Fools mock at sin,
But among the upright there is favor.

¹⁰ The heart knows its own bitterness,
And a stranger does not share its joy.

¹¹ The house of the wicked will be overthrown,
But the tent of the upright will flourish.

¹² There is a way that seems right to a man,
But its end is the way of death.

¹³ Even in laughter the heart may sorrow,
And the end of mirth may be grief.

¹⁴ The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways,
But a good man will be satisfied from above.^[a]

¹⁵ The simple believes every word,
But the prudent considers well his steps.
¹⁶ A wise man fears and departs from evil,
But a fool rages and is self-confident.
¹⁷ A quick-tempered man acts foolishly,
And a man of wicked intentions is hated.
¹⁸ The simple inherit folly,
But the prudent are crowned with knowledge.
¹⁹ The evil will bow before the good,
And the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

²⁰ The poor man is hated even by his own neighbor,
But the rich has many friends.
²¹ He who despises his neighbor sins;
But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he.

²² Do they not go astray who devise evil?
But mercy and truth belong to those who devise good.

²³ In all labor there is profit,
But idle chatter^[b] leads only to poverty.

²⁴ The crown of the wise is their riches,
But the foolishness of fools is folly.

²⁵ A true witness delivers souls,
But a deceitful witness speaks lies.

²⁶ In the fear of the Lord there is strong confidence,
And His children will have a place of refuge.
²⁷ The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life,
To turn one away from the snares of death.

²⁸ In a multitude of people is a king’s honor,
But in the lack of people is the downfall of a prince.

²⁹ He who is slow to wrath has great understanding,
But he who is impulsive^[c] exalts folly.

³⁰ A sound heart is life to the body,
But envy is rottenness to the bones.

³¹ He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker,
But he who honors Him has mercy on the needy.

³² The wicked is banished in his wickedness,
But the righteous has a refuge in his death.

³³ Wisdom rests in the heart of him who has understanding,
But what is in the heart of fools is made known.

³⁴ Righteousness exalts a nation,
But sin is a reproach to any people.

³⁵ The king’s favor is toward a wise servant,
But his wrath is against him who causes shame.

 

In the two verses highlighted for me I am reminded that no matter how much I look forward to weekends I owe my employer a good days work. And God's way is the only way. Anything less is to be dreaded. What did it say to you?

 

Enjoy your weekend. Below I have attached a recipe for your weekend cookout. God bless,

Marty

 

Tuna Steaks and Salsa

Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 3/4 cup chopped peeled mango
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon minced chives
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper, divided
• 1/8 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
• 4 tuna steaks (6 ounces each)

Directions

• For salsa, in a bowl, combine the carrots, mango, lime juice, chives, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, coriander and cumin; set aside. Sprinkle tuna steaks with remaining salt and pepper.
• Using long-handled tongs, moisten a paper towel with cooking oil and lightly coat the grill rack. Grill tuna, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from the heat for 5-7 minutes on each side or until medium-rare or until slightly pink in the center. Serve with salsa.

 

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Big Storms 6/13/13

Good Morning,

I really am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee this morning.

Last night our city was hit with some powerful storms with a lot of lightening, rain and wind. Some of my friends and I watched the clouds swirl and almost bounce. The lightening illuminated the sky and turned darkness into daylight with huge bright flashes. I could not help but think that God just displayed His power in nature. I have attached some verses that remind us just who God is. He hung the moon

Jeremiah 32:17 - Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee.

Jeremiah 51:16 - When he utters his voice, there is a multitude of waters in the heavens; and he causes the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth: he makes lightnings with rain, and brings forth the wind out of his treasures.

Psalm 8:3 - When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;

1 Corinthians 15:41 - There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star different from another star in glory.

Amos 4:13 - For, lo, he forms the mountains, and creates the wind, and declares unto man what is his thought, that makes the morning darkness, and treads upon the high places of the earth, The LORD, The God of host, is his name.

Job 36:27,28 - For he makes small the drops of water: they pour down rain according to the vapour thereof: Which the clouds do drop and distill upon man abundantly

What an amazing God, what amazing power, what amazing love!

God bless,
Marty

Psalm 23 Words for Life 6/12/13

Good Morning.

Coffee, coffee, coffee. My cup is filled with Door County Jamaican Me Crazy Coffee today.

This morning I want to take a look at Psalm 23. I have listened to this Psalm at many funerals. Some how it has become known as the "one to read at a funeral". I believe verse four is used most of all. But today I suggest we look at it differently. I see this psalm full of life, peace, and assurance.
In verse one "The Lord is"
This tells me that this is all written for right now and the future. Nothing is written in the past tense. So God is my Shepherd now. He is the only God. When we see the word shall we can know that God keeps His word and can be counted on.  It is written shall "not maybe". I see the Shepherd active in my life at all times and that I am cared for. " Not was cared for". I suggest today that you read Psalm 23 out loud and put an emphasis on single words and then know that it applies to you right now. That alone should make you more alive than usual! This is a Psalm of life and hope. Enjoy

 

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.

God bless,
Marty

Charity 6/11/2013

Good Morning.

One big cup of Blueberry Cobbler Coffee from the Door County Coffee Company in my hand. It is time to write. 

Deuteronomy 14:28-29 At the end of every three years, bring all the tithes of that year's produce and store it in your towns, so that the Levites (who have no allotment or inheritance of their own) and the aliens, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns may come and eat and be satisfied, and so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.
Deuteronomy 15:7
If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother.
Deuteronomy 15:11
There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land.
Leviticus 19:10
Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the alien. I am the LORD your God.
Leviticus 23:22
When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and the alien. I am the LORD your God.
Leviticus 25:35
'If one of your countrymen becomes poor and is unable to support himself among you, help him as you would an alien or a temporary resident, so he can continue to live among you.
Psalm 37:25-26
I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread. They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be blessed.
Psalm 41:1-2
Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the LORD delivers him in times of trouble. The LORD will protect him and preserve his life; he will bless him in the land and not surrender him to the desire of his foes.
Psalm 112:9
He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor, his righteousness endures forever; his horn will be lifted high in honor.
Proverbs 11:24-25
One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.Many of my friends are the type that always give and give.

The Bible instructs us to be charitable. Out of curiosity I searched for Old Testament verses dealing with charity. I thought today I would share those. If they inspire you to give of yourself or to help someone let me know.

God bless,
Marty

Proverbs 9 Lesson 6/10/13

Good morning,

I am starting my day with a hot cup of Door County White Christmas Coffee. That's two days in a row with the same flavor. I guess it is only June and I am in the Christmas mood.

Last week I discussed the reason for reading a chapter from the Book of Proverbs found within the Bible daily. So to give credence to that lesson I thought I would share once more how that works for me. Being June 9th I read chapter 9 of the Book of Proverbs. That keeps the calendar in line with where I read. Now we must all agree that God is God, and I am me, and you are you. We are all different but have the same heavenly Father. I will show you highlighted in red where I believe that god meant for me to hear from the portion of passage. Here is my formula for listening to God. Now this is just a portion of what I read daily. I spend time elsewhere reading and studying Scripture.

1. I pray before I read asking God to clear my head of "me and anything else battling inside my brain and heart that would take my attention off of His word.

2. I ask in that prayer for the Holy Spirit to instruct me for the day. Then I go ahead and pay attention and if something speaks to my heart I underline it and see how it applies for that moment, that day or my life in general. I expect God's word to instruct, guide and correct as it is promised.

2 Timothy 3:16

 (NKJV)¹⁶ All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,

 

 

So now you have my formula. I hope you have been trying this for yourself. Below I did highlite where God spoke to me.  The Way of Wisdom Proverbs 9 NKJV

 1Wisdom has built her house,
She has hewn out her seven pillars;
² She has slaughtered her meat,
She has mixed her wine,
She has also furnished her table.
³ She has sent out her maidens,
She cries out from the highest places of the city,
⁴ “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!”
As for him who lacks understanding, she says to him,
⁵ “Come, eat of my bread
And drink of the wine I have mixed.
⁶ Forsake foolishness and live,
And go in the way of understanding.

⁷ “He who corrects a scoffer gets shame for himself,
And he who rebukes a wicked man only harms himself.
⁸ Do not correct a scoffer, lest he hate you;
Rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.
⁹ Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser;
Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

¹⁰ “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
¹¹ For by me your days will be multiplied,
And years of life will be added to you.
¹² If you are wise, you are wise for yourself,
And if you scoff, you will bear it alone.”

The Way of Folly

¹³ A foolish woman is clamorous;
She is simple, and knows nothing.
¹⁴ For she sits at the door of her house,
On a seat by the highest places of the city,
¹⁵ To call to those who pass by,
Who go straight on their way:
¹⁶ “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here”;
And as for him who lacks understanding, she says to him,
¹⁷ “Stolen water is sweet,
And bread eaten in secret is pleasant.”
¹⁸ But he does not know that the dead are there,
That her guests are in the depths of hell.

 

So what did I learn? First came the reminder that the major step is attaining Godly wisdom is to fear the Lord. God does correct those He loves and we should not only obey out of love but yet fear His correction.

 

Secondly I was reminded that you can't always correct everyone and in some instances it is best to be quiet and take some abuse if someone is really on your case and it does not seem right.  I guess "silence" at times is best. Those who correct a wise person gain their love and friendship. Sometimes it is best to ask God when it is the right time to speak. And some people who are scoffing at you are not ready to correct or get into an argument with.

 

Now that is what I learned through God today. It is my job to apply it. It might be or probably will be totally different for you. Remember we are God's children and sometimes the instructions can be the same for many or He may single you out with something just for you. It's kind of like dinner. Not everything on the plate might be just what you like, but it is there and needs to be eaten to keep you healthy. So enjoy this way to study and live.

 

God bless,

Breakfast Recipe 6/9/13

Good Morning,
Nothing like a hot cup of Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee to start the morning. I will be finishing my fall flavors and turning to the Christmas Season flavors real soon.

Wisconsin is known for many things. But one thing we have been blessed with are a couple of areas that have abundant cherry crops. I am very fond of cherries. One county in particular sells cherry syrup. We treat ourselves to a bottle once or twice a year. On weekends we tend to make a better breakfast than we do during the week. My wife likes French Toast or Pancakes. I always will break out a little cherry syrup to go with either one.

In order for a cherry to be good to eat it must have the right amount of water, sunshine and time on the branch to become sweet and delicious.

John 15:5 (NKJV)

⁵ “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

As children of God we too must stay attached to the Vine and allow our growth to take place daily.
Time spent in prayer ( I call that Sonshine)
Time spent in the Word. (I call the Water)
Time with both I call that ( Nutrients)

Have a great day!
Marty

Sunday Cherry Pancakes

• 3/4 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 1/2 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup pitted and halved cherries
• butter or non-stick spray for skillet
• confectioner’s sugar (optional)

1. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and cinnamon in a medium sized bowl.
2. Combine milk, eggs, butter, honey, and vanilla in a separate small bowl.
3. Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and fold until just combined. Allow for clumps.
4. Let the batter sit for roughly 10 minutes.  You will see bubbles forming in the batter. This is good!
5. Heat a skillet with non-stick spray or butter (I tried both and both work well.) on medium heat. Pour batter, attempting to form circles, in any size you like. Add cherries on top of the batter. When you see the batter bubbling, flip it over. Let it heat through for another minute. Remove from skillet and repeat with remaining batter.
6. Sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar.

Jesus and Children 6/8/13

Good Morning!
I am starting my day with a hot cup of Door County Coconut Crush Coffee. I actually filled a thermos with some today. I am experimenting with not stopping during the day and purchasing coffee to see if I can save money. It will also give me a chance to use the five thermos bottles I have on a shelf.

On particular passage in Scripture that I have studied will often get me riled up. Let's start with the passage.

Matthew 19:13-15
¹³ Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.

¹⁴ But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

¹⁵ And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.


In older English, 'suffer' means 'allow.' In the quoted phrase, Jesus is saying that even children can come to Him directly; traditionally, only adults were supposed to directly approach other adults, while children were supposed to wait for permission or until approached by an adult. This is a metaphor for His calling that all persons interested in salvation should feel free to seek Him out instead of waiting for Him to come to them.

This is a passage that can get me fired up. All too often I see parents who rely way too much on church programs to raise their kids in God's way for them. The parents desire to be in a throng of worshippers looking for a weekly experience while they drop off the kids to what is usually an excellent program designed to bring kids into a relationship with Jesus. But when do the kids really get to see what worshipping parents are like? How or when do they see parents expressing their love for God and others corporately? I would hopefully assume it is being done at home. Some how I have my doubts. Kids will seek out Jesus on their own and should, but they need guidance in doing so. They need to be nurtured in many ways not just by volunteer workers and under paid youth pastors. Mom and Dad get on it! If you are not the main part in the equation you are hindering the steps a child may be taking toward Jesus. I believe churches should have great kids programs. But I believe the best program starts in the home. Lost in how to do it.? Email me. fritzschutte@aol.com Consult your pastor or youth pastor. Better yet, read your Bible and then teach it to your kids.

God loves you!
Marty

Thoughts from Proverbs 6/7/13

Good Morning,
The old cup is filled with Door County Almond Toffee Coffee once again today.

Our Pastor recommends to everyone that we should read a chapter from the book of Proverbs each day.  Since there are 31 chapters each day of the month can be covered. I find it a worthwhile practice. I must admit that I do not always have every verse apply to my life that day. But however one or two verses usually pop out at me and cause me to think. So here is how it works. Today is June 7th. So we will read Proverbs 7.

As I read through this, I always pray first. What God has said to me today is that there are many temptations out in the world and I need to be ready, keeping His commands. It also reminded me to keep memorizing scripture. I will underline in red those verses that spoke to me today.

Proverbs 7

New King James Version (NKJV)

7 My son, keep my words,
And treasure my commands within you.
² Keep my commands and live,
And my law as the apple of your eye.
³ Bind them on your fingers;
Write them on the tablet of your heart.
⁴ Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,”
And call understanding your nearest kin,
⁵ That they may keep you from the immoral woman,
From the seductress who flatters with her words.

The Crafty Harlot

⁶ For at the window of my house
I looked through my lattice,
⁷ And saw among the simple,
I perceived among the youths,
A young man devoid of understanding,
⁸ Passing along the street near her corner;
And he took the path to her house
⁹ In the twilight, in the evening,
In the black and dark night.

¹⁰ And there a woman met him,
With the attire of a harlot, and a crafty heart.
¹¹ She was loud and rebellious,
Her feet would not stay at home.
¹² At times she was outside, at times in the open square,
Lurking at every corner.
¹³ So she caught him and kissed him;
With an impudent face she said to him:
¹⁴ “I have peace offerings with me;
Today I have paid my vows.
¹⁵ So I came out to meet you,
Diligently to seek your face,
And I have found you.
¹⁶ I have spread my bed with tapestry,
Colored coverings of Egyptian linen.
¹⁷ I have perfumed my bed
With myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.
¹⁸ Come, let us take our fill of love until morning;
Let us delight ourselves with love.
¹⁹ For my husband is not at home;
He has gone on a long journey;
²⁰ He has taken a bag of money with him,
And will come home on the appointed day.”

²¹ With her enticing speech she caused him to yield,
With her flattering lips she seduced him.
²² Immediately he went after her, as an ox goes to the slaughter,
Or as a fool to the correction of the stocks,^[a]
23 Till an arrow struck his liver.
As a bird hastens to the snare,
He did not know it would cost his life.

²⁴ Now therefore, listen to me, my children;
Pay attention to the words of my mouth:
²⁵ Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways,
Do not stray into her paths;
²⁶ For she has cast down many wounded,
And all who were slain by her were strong men.
²⁷ Her house is the way to hell,^[b]
Descending to the chambers of death.

When you open God's word expect the Living Word to accomplish something within you.

Isaiah 55:8-11

⁸ “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,
declares the Lord.
⁹ “As the heavens are higher than the earth
    so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
¹⁰ As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish
    so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
¹¹ so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty
but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

This truly works. Try it. You just might like it.

God Bless,

Marty