Mining For Treasure 6/30/2015

Good Morning,

My new order of Door County Coffee will be arriving today hopefully. This latest shipment will carry me through until the fall flavors are available. Tomorrow I will open some Christmas Coffee to have a little Christmas in July. I might have to wear a stocking cap for effect.

My wife loves to slowly walk through antique shops examining every nook and cranny. She goes slowly to avoid missing some small treasure she has been searching for. I have always been drawn to abandoned  buildings or mines. I will only enter if I have permission or if they are found on public land. I once found an antique candle piece that the miners used on their headlamps. I wonder how many other people walked by that piece and did not see it or did not know what it was. For me it was a small piece of history and was a neat find for the day.

Psalm 119:11New International Version (NIV)

¹¹ I have hidden your word in my heart
    that I might not sin against you.

¹⁵ I meditate on your precepts
    and consider your ways.
¹⁶ I delight in your decrees;
    I will not neglect your word.

 

As I grow older I am now more appreciative of God's Word. I have read through the Bible numerous times, but I am always amazed as to how God works at opening that precious mine over and over again allowing me to find new treasures each time I take the time to go mining. Once He opens a new vein of richness in His mine and I am led to it, I can store it away in my heart's vault. Each day I can add to me treasures.

The key to keeping the vault expanding is to not become lazy. The other key is to open the vault from time to time and share your treasures. I think about the tombs of Kings found around the world layered with statues, linens, art, gold and silver, along with precious jewels. These were closed and many lost until re-discovered. They get displayed in museums but what good did they really ever accomplish.?

Proverbs 2 New International Version (NIV)

1 My son, if you accept my words
    and store up my commands within you,
² turning your ear to wisdom
    and applying your heart to understanding—
³ indeed, if you call out for insight
    and cry aloud for understanding,
⁴ and if you look for it as for silver
    and search for it as for hidden treasure,
⁵ then you will understand the fear of the Lord
    and find the knowledge of God.
⁶ For the Lord gives wisdom;

Stored wisdom is great to have. But when not applied or shared it is useless. It is given to be used and shared. It's like having great vaults of silver and gold just to have it, but never using it for the good of yourself or others. Gold and silver not used should just be left in the ground. It's just heavy metal unless used.

So, today open your Bible and go exploring. You'll never know what God has for you there unless you venture into the mine.

God bless,
Marty

Smile For Us All! 6/29/2015

Good Morning,

Monday has arrived already? Not much we can do about it so let's drink a cup of coffee and put a smile on and brighten the world with our presence. My mug is overflowing just a little with Door County Raspberry Crunch Coffee.

Psalm 139:14New International Version (NIV)

¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful,
    I know that full well.

 

I am sure that all of us look into the mirror and wish there was something different about us now and then. I believe that I would like to be taller. I am not anticipating a growth spurt at my age so I must be content with my height.

 

But have you considered that you are just who God made you to be. You are like that diamond in the store that is one of a kind, "none others like it".

 

You are like a one of a kind suit or dress made by a famous designer. If you could see with His eyes the back of your neck ( just pretending and taking some liberty with writing) would be a label that reads G. Made by God. You are a Designer Label!

 

Now knowing that we represent the Designer, like all celebrities that walk the red carpet and talk about the clothes they are wearing and who made them, we too should walk like we own that carpet of life and smile and wave to all because we are Designer made! You are like the flowers of June that greet me every morning with beauty and grace. They reach up and color the world and seem to be proud of who they are. You should too.

 

So buddy put your smile on. You are priceless.

 

Love to all.

 

Marty

Enjoying Some Peace 6/28/2015

Good Morning,

My coffee is Door County Cherry Crème and today is a special occasion for me. I am resting and sharing my thoughts about yesterday.

Re-purposed coffee pot.

I was able to write yesterday's blog from the comfort of my picnic table. The sun had just come up and there was a brisk breeze blowing. The temperature was 59 degrees and I almost needed a sweater.

I am one busy guy as I am sure most of you are. I relish the days of the picnic table, sunshine, a cool breeze blowing across the computer, the coffee cup steaming and our dog chasing birds in the yard who just seem to want to play and see him run. My Bible was open and I was dining on God's Word.

I was thinking about a lot of things including the troubles of the world. I thought how nice it would be just to take the time to change it one person at a time. Just two people sitting down to a cup of Door County Coffee and meeting each other and seeing that one another are just "folks" and despite differences, people can get along.

In my back yard there isn't a need for hatred, violence, loathing one another or loneliness. Then I realized I had just spent time "In The Garden". I had spent time sharing my thoughts with Jesus. What am I celebrating today? I am celebrating yesterday, and waking up to celebrate something, anything today.

Psalm 118:24New King James Version (NKJV)

²⁴ This is the day the Lord has made;
We will rejoice and be glad in it

 

Have a great day.

 

Marty

I Believe 6/27/2015

Good Morning,

Saturday is here and I have to say, for one who looks forward to weekends, this one snuck up on me. My mug is filled with steaming hot Door County Highlander Grog and I am enjoying it slowly.

In light of all the politics that are being debated one person decided to ask me what my stand is. Am I on the right or the left?

On all issues big or small, I base my opinions and beliefs on 66 books that many people like to quote but don't practice. These 66 books are found in the Bible. I believe in all 66 and I do not waver. I believe that there was Adam and Eve and all things are created. I believe that God parted the Red Sea. In the middle I believe that a fish swallowed Jonah and then spit him out so he would be preaching where God wanted him to. I believe Christ came as a baby, died on the cross, arose from the dead, ascended to heaven, and will come again. I believe in the Ten Commandments, I believe the Bible teaches right from wrong, and I believe that God forgives our sins through Jesus Christ and Jesus alone. There is not one part of the Bible that I do not believe. So if you want to know where I stand, pick up a Bible and you will know. Ask me and I am not ashamed to say what I believe. I don't believe God's word changes, and it certainly is good for today as much as it was yesterday. It will be good for the future and it does not change to fit the desires of men. Man tries to change the word of God to meet their own desires.

2 Timothy 3:16New International Version (NIV)
¹⁶ All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

Have a great day. To say the least, I know where I stand.

God bless,

Marty

Shaking The Sugar Tree 6/26/2015

Good Morning,

Running late today. Duty called last night and I had to work through the evening until later this morning. I did however make some Door County Coconut Crush Coffee at work last night to help stay awake. You just have to love construction projects and health care.

Mark - Chapter 10:13-14

13. People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them.
14. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these."

 

Rene and I are empty nesters now. The one who greets me at the door is our dog Gibbs. His tail wags as he prances around looking for attention. I can't pass him by without scratching his ears for a minute and acknowledging him.

I watch the kids who live across the street from us who on many days are outside playing when their Dad returns home from work. He is greeted by the three kids much like puppies who have waited all day for their master to return. They want to be acknowledged and played with by Dad.

 

I remember the days when I was a little boy and my dad would come home very late from work and he would tell me to look into his lunch box. I would sometimes find a bag of peanuts or a small candy bar there for us.

 

It is a shame when parents get caught up in the excessive activities of life and are always too tired to spend even just a little quality time with the children God has given them. Children will often act out in order to get attention. This is their way of shaking the "sugar tree." Video games, sport clubs, and empty promises are not the same as a walk with dad or mom, sitting on a tired but loving lap, reading together, playing catch, eating pretend cake with pretend tea, crawling into a fort made of blankets, playing a board game and losing, or sharing a soggy Oreo cookie.  Kids will give away hints of their need to bond with a parent. The biggest hint is when you no longer see them. They scroll their lives away in their room and seldom come out, because they are tired of shaking the sugar tree with nothing falling.

So today before your child has to shake the tree, surprise them with a gift of your time, just for them. Laugh together, listen to the story that seems like it won't end, run and kick a ball, make the lemonade and sit down with them and write with chalk on the sidewalk. Jesus made time for children and He had a world to save.

Have a great weekend. Let the sugar fly.

Marty

It's Five O'clock Somewhere 6/25/2015

Good Morning,

I want to shout from the top of our house this fine morning, "Wake up it's Five O'clock somewhere"!
But instead I will drink my cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee quietly and reflect a little.

 

Hebrews 10:24-25New International Version (NIV)

²⁴ And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,

We all are different in many ways, Some of us are short, some are tall, not all of us are the same age, some are thin, some are heavy, some are talented, others are not. So many differences including where we live , what mood we are in at any given time, how we receive each other, what we do for a living, how we spend our leisure time, married, or single, widowed or divorced. Too may differences to list.

But one thing we all have in common is that each of us has access to twenty four hours a day, no more or no less, unless we die before a day is complete.

In your twenty four hours, how did you spend them? Were you available and approachable? How was your mood when encountering others? Were you respectful? Did you work hard to earn your pay? Were you blessed with something? Did you share? Was it your goal in your twenty four hours to be a blessing to someone else?

Each day is a gift from God. It's like receiving a box of chocolates as a gift. You open it in front of people and you have a choice to make. Do I share the chocolates or not? The same can be said for your life. Do I share myself today or not? I could bless others or not!

The other thing we all have in common is this, Once those twenty four hours are gone, they are gone forever. You can't get a re-do.

So make today count for others. a heart beats best when it beats for others.

God bless,

Marty

Who's In The Caboose? 6/24/2015

Good Morning,

Let's start this day on the right foot so to speak. Thank you Lord for giving us this day and all that may happen. We love You and want to say it this morning. You lead us and push us all at the same time.

This old mug of mine is filled with Door County Cinnamon Sugar Biscotti Coffee. It woke me up as the coffee boiler started to rumble.

 

In keeping with my train theme for a few days we will have a look at the caboose. The last car in the train.

The caboose served several functions, one of which was as an office for the conductor. A printed "waybill" followed every freight car from its origin to destination, and the conductor kept the paperwork in the caboose.
The caboose also carried a brakeman and a flagman. In the days before automatic air brakes, the engineer signaled the caboose with his whistle when he wanted to slow down or stop. The brakeman then would climb out and make his way forward, twisting the brakewheels atop the cars with a stout club. Another brakeman riding the engine would work his way toward the rear. Once the train was stopped, the flagman would descend from the caboose and walk back to a safe distance with lanterns, flags and other warning devices to stop any approaching trains.
Once under way, the trainmen would sit up in the cupola and watch for smoke or other signs of trouble from overheated wheel journals (called hotboxes).

The Cupola

The addition of the cupola – the lookout post atop the car – is attributed to a conductor who discovered in 1863 that he could see his train much better if he sat atop boxes and peered through the hole in the roof of his boxcar         

Rolling Home?

It was common for railroads to assign a caboose to a conductor for his exclusive use. Conductors took great pride in their cars, despite the caboose's many derogatory nicknames, including crummy, doghouse, bone-breaker, snake wagon and hearse.
The men decorated their car interiors with many homey touches, including curtains and family photos. Some of the most important additions were ingredients for cooking meals that became a part of American folklore. Augmented with such comforting features, the caboose served as a home away from the trainmen's home terminals.

Earlier this week we looked at how God needs to be the engineer of the train. The engineer is in the lead locomotive of the train. But what about the last car?

The caboose reminds me that we have a whole lot of heavenly hosts at God's disposal that are at the ready to assist us as He commands. Our train has angels.
The Bible clearly teaches, “The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them” (Psalm 34:7). Psalm 91:11 tells us, “For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. And Hebrews 1:14 says of angels, “Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?” Also in Hebrews, we read that “some have unwittingly entertained angels” (13:2). That is an interesting thought, isn’t it? Maybe you have met an angel. If you have, you probably wouldn’t know it. I doubt that an angel would tell you he is an angel.

Wow, nothing can stop the God train!

Have a great day.

Marty



Don't Ignore The Railroad Crossing. 6/23/2015

Good Morning Friends,

Boy! Was yesterday a day for severe storms. At one point on Interstate 43 I thought I would be taking a trip to Kansas or Oz on the wings of the wind. Maybe today will be quieter. I actually spilled some of my coffee on that trip. So today I will drink a cup of Door County Raspberry Crunch Coffee and take some time to enjoy it.

In keeping with a railroad theme for a couple of days I thought that I would talk about railroad crossings.

Railroad crossings are usually well marked with stop signs and red flashing lights. They warn drivers and pedestrians alike that a train is approaching and to stay off of the tracks. Time after time I see  those who go through the crossing and try to get to the other side before the train comes. Very often they make it and it might have saved them a minute or two in their travels. But it was a flirtation experience with disaster. Because there are way too many times that I have heard of those who did not make it. Trains cannot stop on a dime and it takes a great distance to stop when a train is traveling at highway speeds. The crash usually results in the death of the vehicle occupants or the pedestrians who could not run fast enough or slipped as they were running. The train does not stop in time.

1 Corinthians 10:12-14New International Version (NIV)
¹² So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! ¹³ No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

In life temptations come our way each day. But lunike the daredevils that try their luck at dodging trains we can avoid a train wreck of a mess by using the way out that God is always faithful to provide. We do not have to cave in when temptation comes. Those who have been run over by a train could have avoided that mess by just obeying the rules.

If we follow the moral teachings of Scripture we can avoid sin and stay off the tracks of ruin and shame. It's an easy equation. The Bible, obeyed leads to the right side of the tracks every time all the time.

Enjoy a great day.

Marty

Keep The Train On The Tracks 6/22/2015

Good Morning,

Back from the weekend and this day starts with a fury. I will be on the road again for the day. I feel a little stressed when my day planner has more entries than there are hours in a day. So let's start this day with a cup of Door County Mocha Mint Coffee and some prayer.

I love to look at old trains and train memorabilia when I have the time. The locomotive above has been classically restored and is in a museum. I can picture the black smoke coming from her stack and the wheels churning. I can hear the steam whistle blowing as it approaches a road crossing.

That train did not drive itself. It had an engineer that was responsible for the speed of the train and the safety of the passengers and cargo on board. If the train would travel too fast into a turn there was the possibility that the train would come off the track as it came out of the turn.

The engineer was also in charge of stopping the train when needed for cargo and passenger pick up. The train also would need to be stopped completely if there was something seem ahead on the track.

Our lives are a lot like trains and need to have an engineer in charge. There has to be someone to stop and start us, slow us down and fuel us up. Our Heavenly Engineer is God.

Proverbs 3:5-6 New King James Version (NKJV)

⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
⁶ In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths.

Who's driving your train, you or God?

Why not leave the details to the Engineer, who has laid all the tracks?

God bless,
Marty

6/21/2015 Happy Fathers Day

Good Evening,

I had to skip my early coffee today. We were traveling and needed to stay on time. I eventually was able to pick up a cup of Door county Highlander Grog Decaf later in the day.

Today we celebrate Fathers Day. I saw tributes to fathers on Facebook today, billboards were posted with announcements and the radio played songs dedicated to dads from everywhere.

I received a call from my daughter today and a nice note on Facebook and it made my day. It is nice to hear from your child just how much they love you. It is a comfort and a tribute.

I thought about how much that meant to me and then pondered??? I have a Heavenly Father. Have I told Him how much He means to me today? He certainly is awesome, loving, powerful, compassionate, protective, and without flaw.

Isaiah 40:28New International Version (NIV)

²⁸ Do you not know?
    Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
    the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
    and his understanding no one can fathom.

 

I had to stop and make a call to Him, through prayer. I needed to hear myself say the words "I love you". Take time to acknowledge Our Father in Heaven. He has your picture on His refrigerator!

 

God bless,

 

Marty

Lord, Do You Hear Me When I Call? 6/19/2015

Good Morning,

I have been waiting for today all week. Friday has to be one of the toughest days for my job. But at the end of the day my weekend starts. So in the mood to live large I am breaking out some Door County Jamaican Me Crazy Coffee this morning.

Lord, do You hear me when I call has probably been on the lips of many of us when things are going wrong for others or ourselves.

I have been there, reaching to the sky and crying out when it seemed no one was listening to my pleas, prayers or petitions.

But my life went on and God's answers were not always clear at first, and sometimes there wasn't the answer I wanted. But I still kept praying during feast or famine, praising as much as I could and pleading for myself or others. Why?

The answer would be this. I kept a log of my prayers ( I still do) and I would go back and read as to what happened after prayer and how life turned, twisted or smoothed out. I watched for God at work and recorded His actions for those days when doubt crept in. It was then that I could look back at how He never left me alone, allowed me to grow, corrected me, or provided in time or instantly.

Jeremiah 31:21New International Version (NIV)

²¹ “Set up road signs;
    put up guideposts.
Take note of the highway,
    the road that you take.

Like Jeremiah told the Israelites mark your road. Journal God's work in your life. Know where you were so you can continue on in life's journey. Look back only to remember God's glory. Those written markers in a journal work to encourage you and remind you of the times when God provided or even said no. They are a great gift to pass on to the family.

Jeremiah 33:3New International Version (NIV)

³ ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’

 

Go ahead, God can be trusted to know what is best. He knows His will when we don't. Call out and listen. No answer?? Then trust that the answer will come in time. Be ready to accept it whatever it is.

 

God bless,

Marty

Misery Loves Company 6/18/2015

Good Morning,

I want to stop long enough to say, "You are loved". Just wanted everyone to hear that today. My morning brew is perking away and soon I will be drinking a huge cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee. There is only one thing to say about that. I wish you were here to have a cup with me and munch on some breakfast. We could spend and hour praying and do more to solve the problems of the world than all the world leaders locked in a room together could do in 5 days.

One of my favorite books was published by Ducks Unlimited. The title is Misery Loves Company. Duck hunting alone is ok, but always best with a friend and your dog. Most duck hunters have been declared insane because when the weather is at it's worst in the fall, we all say, "Great day for duck hunting". Some of the most miserable weather has produced the best duck hunts.

Now that's the story for duck hunters. But in all reality have you ever noticed someone with a whiny, irritable, malcontent spirit always likes to have everyone around them suffer along in their self induced misery? The Bible has a lot to say about being one who complains and whines. It also then leads us as to how we should act. Maybe we should tell them that all that whining and complaining about everything really is a downer!

Proverbs 15:1-7 New International Version (NIV)

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

² The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge,
    but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

³ The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,
    keeping watch on the wicked and the good.

⁴ The soothing tongue is a tree of life,
    but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.

⁵ A fool spurns a parent’s discipline,
    but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.

⁶ The house of the righteous contains great treasure,
    but the income of the wicked brings ruin.

⁷ The lips of the wise spread knowledge,
    but the hearts of fools are not upright

So today you can choose to build up those around you or tear them down by pouring out misery instead of love and contentment. You can choose the impact you have on others.

Pray through your answers today. Would you want to be around you today?

God bless,

Marty

Falling Asleep In Church 6/17/2017

Good Morning,

Sleep hit me like a brick last night and it felt good to collapse in the arms of my chair. Waking up seemed more joyful today after some rest. My mug was just filled with Door County Coconut Crush Coffee and my lunch is packed. My quiet time is done and I am ready for today!

Acts 20:7-12 New King James Version (NKJV
⁷ On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight. ⁸ There were many lamps in the upstairs room where we were meeting. ⁹ Seated in a window was a young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, he fell to the ground from the third story and was picked up dead. ¹⁰ Paul went down, threw himself on the young man and put his arms around him. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “He’s alive!” ¹¹ Then he went upstairs again and broke bread and ate. After talking until daylight, he left. ¹² The people took the young man home alive and were greatly comforted.

Every time I read this passage it reminds me of two things.

1. People in Paul's time did not look at their watch during church. They were consumed with hearing from a man of God, not the Packer game or the Sunday meal.

2. It also reminds me to acknowledge when I will be attending church and to properly rest and give it my all while there.

Obviously this passage had a great outcome. But I wonder if Eutychus ever fell asleep in church again? But then again at least he was there.

So it is Wednesday do you have your church attendance planned yet?

God bless,

Marty

Where My Help Comes From 6/16/2015

Good Morning,

Last night we were able to get in a workout before supper, repair a faulty light on the car, and protect our identity, all in a few hours. My coffee this morning is a fruity cup of Door County Blueberry Cobbler. I needed fruity today!

It seems as if our Internal Revenue Service was hacked by criminals who have tried to latch on to our money and our future. I pity them and have prayed for them. This has just been one more little bump in what has been a rough road these past few months. When I was called at work today and this latest adventure was explained to me I looked up. Someone asked me what I was looking at. I replied "nothing that you can see". I was looking up and was mumbling a prayer knowing that at that moment the only thing, the best thing, the thing that made the most sense was to experience God's presence in the moment and then breathe.

Psalm 121 New King James Version (NKJV)

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.

 

In that moment I was relieved of the burden knowing that God knew who had done this and that He would deal with them. I did not need to get angry and wish that they would be bitten by scorpions until they repented. God would deal with them in His time and in His way. Who knows? He might even forgive them if they ask and turn to Jesus. I don't have to carry the weight of hate and plan their punishment. I will leave their future up to God and trust that what He does is best.

 

In that I found my Hills when I looked up. There was peace.

 

God bless,

Marty

Late For The Door 6/15/2015

Good Morning,

The old body is tired out from too much weekend. I never thought that I would try riding a two wheeled foot scooter at my age. Well, that one is best left to the younger guys. So I will pamper this old man with a cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee.

2 Timothy 4:2-4English Standard Version (ESV)
² preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. ³ For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, ⁴ and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.

I was talking with an old friend today and we were discussing church experiences. We have a common theology and he was telling me about a new church claiming to be a Bible based church that has certain subjects that the Pastor is not allowed to preach on. He said that the church leadership does not want to offend anyone with the subject of sin, especially some of the elements of it.

Our Pastor just spoke on sin and some of it's elements and did not hold back. Saturday night I preached about the fact that people without Jesus are heading to hell when they die. I did not hold back at all.

I can tell you this for sure. If that were the church I belonged to, in five minutes I would be late for the door. My friend was told that he was somewhat legalistic and old fashioned. If that is the case than I an a relic!

Friends, beware of churches that only have a happy, happy message and are afraid of calling sin a sin because it might be offensive to the sinner. Now love everyone despite their faults but love them enough to lead them to spiritual truth. Let the preachers continue to give the messages delivered to them by the Holy Spirit.

Fire and brimstone??? You get purer gold with a hotter fire.

God bless,
Marty

The Graduate 6/14/2015

Good Morning,

Today is another dreary day in Wisconsin. The rain continues to fill the skies. My cup of Door County Raspberry Crunch Coffee is all but done. So with today looking the way it is. I think I have time for another one.

This weekend many of the colleges and high schools will be celebrating their graduation days. New young adults will be entering the work force, new students will be headed off to college, some will enter the military.

It made me think about my graduation days from many years ago. I never realized how big the world could be until I had to really deal with it by myself. I had been prepared to go out on my own through education and the things learned at home. The one bit of advice that was given but not taken was to in all things follow God. I learned that lesson the  University of Hard Knocks and Adversity.

If I were to be able to address all the students leaving school today with their diplomas in hand, this would be my speech.

Matthew 6:33King James Version (KJV)
³³ But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

That statement from Matthew 6:33 stands by itself as the best advice one can give. It is better than silver or gold.

Think about that one today. It serves all men and women of any age. God first, life in general "second".

Love you all.

Marty

Full House 6/13/2015

Good Morning,

As I look out of the window in my den I see fog, rain, and for sure a lock of sunshine. My Door County Cherry Crème Coffee is doing the double duty of waking me up and warming these old bones.

Psalm 127 

127 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.
² It is vain for you to rise up early,
To sit up late,
To eat the bread of sorrows;
For so He gives His beloved sleep.

³ Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,
The fruit of the womb is a reward.
⁴ Like arrows in the hand of a warrior,
So are the children of one’s youth.
⁵ Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them;
They shall not be ashamed,
But shall speak with their enemies in the gate.

We have been blessed to have one daughter. Over the last couple of days she has been able to visit for an extended weekend. I titled this "Full House". With Kristy visiting this weekend our house is far from full, but it is for a little while back to what was so many years ago "normal". I have enjoyed the last couple of nights with our after midnight chats. When Kristy was in high school we served in a late night teen crisis call center and would often go to breakfast on the way home at 4:00 AM.  We would talk about the people who called for help, and if we helped them or not. Actually we did that last night talking about how we could help or not help others.

Kristy is a "doer". That is how she was bent as a kid. There was no stopping her, so what was best was to feed the appetite she had for others. So that was what we did. But we did it together and that made it best.

Friends, find out which way your child is wired or bent. Help them to go in the direction God made them and wants them to go. Drop your own agenda for them and allow the natural flow of goodness to come out.

When we talk on the phone from long distances away with each other, I actually listen to Kristy and it 90% of the time as to how she is helping someone. I pause for a moment and think, "Our house is still full".

God bless,

Marty

Walking With God 6/12/2015

Good Morning,

This is a happy day for me. Friday once again, and our daughter will be here for a short visit. That makes this cup of Door County Cherry Crème Coffee all that much better.

Micah 6:8   
He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Amos 3:3   
“Do two walk together, unless they have agreed to meet?

Today I wanted to take a look at what God wants from us. He agrees to meet with us in prayer, His actions and through His word. In order to do that we need to walk with Him. If we are to walk with Him spiritually than we should expect to meet with Him. We cannot say that we walk with God if we do not actually spend time acknowledging His presence and listen to Him. God wants us to walk with Him all the days of our life and for eternity.

I think what we should all desire is a walk that is so close to God that nothing can come between us.
In order to have a good walk with God He needs to be the priority. Many people these days are now very good at multi-tasking. God cannot be given  second place when we are meeting with Him. Once He becomes an option, He really becomes no option at all.

So put down the cell phone, drop the remote, mute the television and spend time walking with God.

Have a great day.

Marty

God Knew What I Needed 6/11/2015

Good Morning,

I have started my day by being happy to be alive. I woke up with a job to go to. My wife was by my side. The dog was wagging his tail and happy to be with us. The coffee pot was perking with Door County Raspberry Crunch in it.

Psalm 37:5New King James Version (NKJV)

⁵ Commit your way to the Lord,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass.

 

There is a whole lot of things in life that will depress a person. Yesterday was one of those days for me. I think we all have them from time to time. What should not go wrong will. What shouldn't break does.

 

I have too many bad habits but one good one I have is to listen to good preachers each morning on the radio. I was a little down and out as I listened. I was praying "Lord say something, please." The Lord spoke through the preacher, encouraging all listeners to keep committed to the Lord during trials and trust Him. And sooner than later some how, some way, He brings it to pass. Psalm 37:5

 

God's number one way of speaking is through His word. It can be read, listened to or memorized. But when you need it most He speaks. We need to listen for Him. This was what I needed to hear, from the One who loves me most.

 

Isaiah 30:20-21 NKJV

²⁰ And though the Lord gives you
The bread of adversity and the water of affliction,
Yet your teachers will not be moved into a corner anymore,
But your eyes shall see your teachers.
²¹ Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying,
“This is the way, walk in it,”
Whenever you turn to the right hand
Or whenever you turn to the left.

 

Go ahead and listen. God has something to say. It just might be "I love you".

 

Marty

When You Are Troubled 6/10/2015

Good Morning,

I just filled my cup full of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee. It is what I need to get going today. There is a lot on my mind today.

We all are troubled from time to time. Troubled and worried are two in the same. I for one am troubled for someone who is having difficulties right now. The world seems to be a lot to bear. It grieves me to see this happen. Normally I am a "fixer". But in this one I seem to have no clear direction.

Last night I decided that I needed some advice and reassurance. I turned once more to fill my spiritual cup.

Psalm 23

A psalm of David.

¹ The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He is.
²     He makes me lie down in green pastures, I have and I need to now.
he leads me beside quiet waters, I need these waters to slow down.
³     he refreshes my soul. Reading this did. I know He loves me.
He guides me along the right paths I need wisdom and guidance now.
    for his name’s sake. His name is at stake.
⁴ Even though I walk I need to keep moving forward.
    through the darkest valley. It is not dark. He lights my pathway with His word.
I will fear no evil, I should not be afraid.
    for you are with me; I am not alone.
your rod and your staff, You will keep me straight.
    they comfort me. Be firm with me it is a comfort.

⁵ You prepare a table before me You set this day in front of me.
    in the presence of my enemies. There will be a victory.
You anoint my head with oil; You soothe the burns of life.
    my cup overflows. I am blessed.
⁶ Surely your goodness and love will follow me. I need to keep moving forward. You are behind me.
    all the days of my life, Always.
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord I DWELL WITH YOU NOW AND WILL FOREVER.
    forever Amen

 

This helped me as I prayed this last night. Pass it on to others.

 

God bless,

Marty

Rise Up Early 6/9/2015

Good Morning,

Mark 1:35New International Version (NIV)
³⁵ Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.

I have always been one who wakes up early. As a little boy I would love to wake up early on Saturday to catch a full morning of cartoons on television. My morning cup of Door County Cinnamon Sugar Biscotti Coffee tastes better to me in the morning than it would in the evening. In the fall I prefer to hunt the early morning instead of the evening. Lying in bed wasting the day away holds no attraction for me. There is always something to be done or someplace to go.

My morning quiet time with prayer and reading my Bible is important to me. I have tried it at night and it just isn't the same for me.

I would suggest to all Christians that unless sick, or work hours are such that you need to sleep in later that we should all be up and about doing what the Lord has planned for us.

The Israelites gathered manna in the morning. Jesus ministered  early in the morning. The women went to Christ's tomb early in the morning. This is a good habit to teach children. Kids who wake up early tend to go to bed earlier. Not too many families that practice responsible sleeping are ever late for appointments and church. Get them out of the bed and on their feet. Now adults you need to set the example for this. So practice what you preach.

Proverbs 26:14New International Version (NIV)

¹⁴ As a door turns on its hinges,
    so a sluggard turns on his bed.

Have a great day. Get some sleep tonight and enjoy a sunrise tomorrow.

Marty

 

Wear Your Safety Belt 6/8/2015

Good Morning,

The work week is upon us and Monday always seems so far from Friday. But when you think about it, wishing it was Friday instead of Monday is just wishing your life away. Who knows what Tuesday or Wednesday will hold? My coffee this morning is a big cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch.

When iron workers walk structural steel beams they wear a safety belt that is harnessed to the structure to keep from falling. When a deer hunter climbs into a tree stand he or she should at all times be wearing a safety belt to keep from falling out of the tree.

Biblical knowledge, applied, is a Christian's safety belt in life. Put that safety belt of wisdom, love and advice to the side and ignore it and you have just wandered into a collision zone. Once that Biblical safety restraint is off temptation after temptation will start to seem like a good idea. There is nothing there from stopping a Christian from experiencing the deceitful lie of Satan who wants the Christian to stumble.

Deuteronomy 8:3New King James Version (NKJV)
³ So He humbled you, allowed you to hunger, and fed you with manna which you did not know nor did your fathers know, that He might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord.

Friends, stay loyal and disciplined to God's word. Dine on it daily. Leave the safety belt on.

God bless,

Marty

Rainy Days Don't Always Get Me Down 6/7/2015

Good Morning,

The brew filling my mug this morning is a hot serving of Door County Jamaican Me Crazy Coffee. It is doing exactly what it needs to do, wake me up a little and welcome the day with me.

Our weather is windy and rainy today. We have a prayer walk scheduled with our mission team today and I am afraid they will experience a little foul weather. I am not going to let the weather ruin the day. This is the day the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it.

Isaiah 55:10-11, ESV For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

In my mind it would be better if it rained on Monday instead of a Sunday. But hear me out. In our part of the country planting season was upon us a couple weeks ago. The corn in the farm fields now needs the rain, my wife's flowers needed some moisture and I am always appreciative when the Lord fills the water sources for me to hunt in later in October.

If it did not rain today I would have had my usual devotional and quiet time, but since it is raining I have more time to spend with God's word.

Psalm 84:10-12New International Version (NIV)

¹⁰ Better is one day in your courts
    than a thousand elsewhere;
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
    than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
¹¹ For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
    the Lord bestows favor and honor;
no good thing does he withhold
    from those whose walk is blameless.

¹² Lord Almighty,
    blessed is the one who trusts in you.

 

That pretty much sums up my thoughts today. Better is an extra hour dwelling with God and his word than anywhere else I could be.

 

God bless,

Marty

Summer Bratwursts 6/6/2015

Good Morning,

The word contentment describes me this morning. With a full cup of Door County Cherry Crème Coffee next to me and our dog sleeping on my feet contentment can be the only word to use.

I have plans to meet some good buddies at the shooting range today to hone our shot gun skills on some clay targets. We like to try and stay sharp for duck hunting season which is only 4 months away, but who is counting????

I would like to talk about bratwursts this morning. For those of you who do not know what a bratwurst is////

A bratwurst (German: [ˈbʁaːtvʊɐ̯st] ( listen)), also known as a brat in American English, is a sausage usually composed of veal, pork or beef. The name is derived from Old High German Brätwurst, from brät-, which is finely chopped meat and Wurst, or sausage.

Grilling bratwurst or as they say just a little North of us "having a brat fry" is a summertime tradition in these parts. I for one like mine served with a little spicy mustard and some sauerkraut on top.
The "brats" need to be grilled enough to be done, but can accidentally be overcooked causing the juices in them to overheat and burst the sausage. The temperature rises too fast causing a brat explosion, often causing a grease fire of immense heat, which then has you eating a dried out meal. This is usually accomplished when the fry master is a rookie or is in too much of a hurry. Good things always take time. Patience is the key to not having a blowup.

People are like bratwursts. They can get to an internal boiling point in a situation so quick and are ready to blow up because they don't take time to see another persons point off view and intentions.

For instance I was passed on the road yesterday by a man in his car who was driving rather erratically. My first assumption was that he was a fool who bought his drivers license at Target , he was drunk, or just a rude person. I happened to arrive at the hospital parking lot where I was to work for the afternoon and saw him running from his car to the emergency room. Obviously he was either injured or was rushing to a loved one who was ill or injured. My first assumption was to be angry with him, but I really did not know his situation. Not taking time to pray helped to take me to anger.

What I should have done was this. I should have prayed. "Lord, that man is driving somewhat crazy. Please protect him and others. You know why he is doing this action. He is Your child and I come before you on his behalf. Father your will be done." Once I saw him running to the emergency department guilt hit me and I did pray on his behalf and whoever he was running to.  Like the rookie at the grill I over fired and went to a blowup.

Luke 6:31 - And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.

This verse is the ultimate key to having patience with other people and avoiding an explosion and fire that just takes a contentment filled day and ruining it.

Last bit of advice. Take time to have a picnic with friends. Whether you eat peanut butter and jelly, bratwursts, burgers, cheese and crackers, it doesn't really matter, take time to enjoy the company of friends and celebrate your love for one another. We want to plan one soon, but are waiting until our good friend can walk right into our yard. She has been laid up with a serious injury for 6 months. I have the brats ready to celebrate her first steps which we hope is soon. And if you are short of friends send me your address and I will bring the potato salad and mustard.

God bless,
Marty
 

Riding A Bike 6/5/2015

Good Morning,

Friday came again. I hoped it would. I am hoping for a shorter day than yesterday. It looks to be a fun weekend with some mission trip prep work. So with my Door County Raspberry Crunch Coffee by my side I write and then head out the door.

Isaiah 46:4New International Version (NIV)

⁴ Even to your old age and gray hairs
    I am he, I am he who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you;
    I will sustain you and I will rescue you

In an effort to streamline this old body my bicycle came out of the garage last night. And on a warm and humid summer night I kick started the engine (me) and it was off to tour the neighborhood. I was a little shaky at first and it reminded me of my first time riding a bike and my dad running next to me in case I was going to fall. Only this time my Dad was not running along to make sure I would not fall. Once I got going and made a few laps around the neighborhood I put my big boy pants on and took myself out on to the main road. I wasn't sure if I was sweating from the work out or from nerves wondering if I had made the right decision after not riding for a long time. I was determined to get up that hill and then fly down at high speed with the wind blowing in my face. I did it! Soon after, I was regaining my cycling skills and gained some confidence. It was like I had never stopped riding a bike.

Last year God had me sit out a summer from short term mission trips. To be honest, my health would not have supported it. But this summer I am back at it. This trip won't be too tough at all but it will be an adjustment to new people, eating and sleeping arrangements and some strenuous work. Who knows what will be needed spiritually? A week ago I began to have some doubts as to whether or not I could still do it. I was in prayer when I read Isaiah 46:4. I had been petitioning God, asking Him to strengthen me for the upcoming trip and preparations.  I knew then that I could make it. I was rusty but it would be just like riding a bike again, only my Dad would be there all the way.

Have a great day.

Marty