Goose For Supper 10/31/2015

Good Morning,

Headed out soon for a goose hunt with my good buddies. I filled my Thermos bottle with Door County Maple Coffee. Next stop the donut shop and off I go. Hopefully this day will produce some geese and tomorrow night will have goose on the table for supper.

My dog will be ready to retrieve geese and share a donut. He will stay close to me inside the blind. You probably are wondering what this has to do with the Bible and my blog. This morning I get to spend time with dear friends, I will be outside in God's nature, I will be with my trusty companion Gibbs, I have the gear to hunt with, my health is permitting me to go, and I have a shot gun and ammunition. I am blessed and need to be thankful and let God know how much this day is appreciated.

1. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

2. Psalm 107:1 

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!

3. Ephesians 5:20

Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,

 

We all take too many things for granted and we don't stop to say thank you for all God does for us. Thank you Lord for this day!

 

God bless,

 

Marty

Helping The Poor In Spirit 10/30/2015

Good Morning,

Friday arrived right on time. To celebrate the start of the weekend I brewed a pot of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee. Lets get going!

Proverbs 14:21New International Version (NIV)

²¹ It is a sin to despise one’s neighbor,
    but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy.

 

There are times in everyone's life that we become poor in spirit. People become needy souls, possibly because of a death, loss of a job, wayward family members, finances run amuck or are own poor health. We want to help those in need. Let me suggest one method to help. True compassion for the poor in spirit doesn't lie as much in words as in quiet togetherness. It begins by being there for others so that when they reach their limit, the bottled up feelings can be set free without guilt or shame. They can fly in a torrent of  liberating words and tears. Knowing that there is a friend that will listen, or cry with you is better than a thousand soothing words. Just making yourself available to listen  and serve as a resource if needed is helping the poor in spirit.

 

So today, don't pass by a sad face. Maybe you were sent to brighten their day.

 

Marty

Warm Yourself By The Fire 11/29/2015

Good Morning,

The air has a little bit of a bitter cold bite in it this morning. I am not quite used to it just yet. But soon enough this will feel like a warm day once my body gets reacquainted with the cold. I loaded my cup with Door County Autumn Spice Coffee. That will do the trick.

Last night our home was starting to feel a little frigid. So to warm it up I started a nice blaze in the fireplace. I really do like the crackle of the hardwood fire, and the glow from the flames. I find it so relaxing, comforting and soothing that I often fall asleep in front of the fire. But no matter how hot I make the fire it never warms up a cold heart.

Luke 24:30-32King James Version (KJV)
³⁰ And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.
³¹ And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.
³² And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?

When I find myself being crabby, or depressed with circumstances I realize that my heart has grown cold and it needs to be fired up.  The way to get that heart warm again is to spend time talking with Jesus. Jesus does talk back through His word the Bible.  So that means I need to open God's word, pray and read it. Soon my heart is warmed by my talk with my Creator. I talk, He listens, He speaks and I listen. Soon the fireplace has warmed my body and the time spent with our loving God has warmed my heart. When an ice cube warms up, it melts and turns soft and watery. When a heart warms up, it melts in love for God and others. It softens toward others and is like aloe for a burn. Your warm heart and compassion can help take the sting out of another person's life. Your cold, hard heart begins beating for others. The more it beats, the warmer it gets.

Why be cold hearted when our Heavenly Heat Pack desires to spend time with you and set your heart aglow?

Warm up, it feels better.

Marty

What's The Fuss? Focus 10/28/2015

Good Morning,

Some days you just wish you could sleep in a little longer. Today is one of those days but, my schedule won't have any of that. So with my Door County Harvest Blend Coffee at my side I write and then head out to work.

Luke 10:38-42New International Version (NIV)
³⁸ As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. ³⁹ She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. ⁴⁰ But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
⁴¹ “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, ⁴² but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

No doubt about it. I believe Martha had to be one great hostess. Of all the women in the Bible I believe she would be the one that I would want to invite me for Thanksgiving dinner. I bet she was a good cook, and her home was clean. I would imagine that she received many compliments on the way she presented her dishes and home. She was probably very detail oriented also. She was so worried about entertaining her guests that she did not have time to listen to the main guest.

We all are not too different from Martha. But today we will not look at passing up time with Jesus, although that is super important. But look closer into your own home. How busy do you get that you don't have time to get on the floor and play with your kids? How consumed are you with the details of work or ministry that you would miss a football or volleyball game which your kids are playing in? Can't the laundry become a folding game for the whole family?  How about an hour of board games with the family? How about prayer and Bible charades with those you love. How about a cup of coco with the spouse?

What's the fuss? Focus a little on what is more important.

Love ya!

Marty

My Favorite Shotgun 10/27/15

Good Morning,

Time to wake up and face the day. I chose Door County Maple Coffee to put some extra octane in my human gas tank this morning. It's going to be a busy day, but that's how I like it.

I hunt with a lot of different people and just about every one of them has their own personal preferences when it comes to the type of shotgun they like to use for hunting. Different brands, different styles, short barrels, longer barrels, synthetic stocks, wooden stocks, gun slings, double barrels, pumps, auto loaders, and price are some of the options that are discussed at length.

For me, I like to choose a shotgun that takes an ordinary, sometimes lousy shot like me and helps me to make extraordinary shots.

Philippians 1:6New International Version - UK (NIVUK)
⁶ being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

People try on life the same way we try different shot guns. They try sports to find fulfillment. Some try other people and relationships to find fulfillment. Some will try school or their jobs to find fulfillment. Others will seek fame and money to find fulfillment. Like my shotguns, the one that was my favorite 5 years ago is now left in the gun cabinet in preference of a different one. Although I made some pretty nice shots with the old one. I had to try something else, thinking that there was a better way to make me shoot better. What worked before has been replaced.

The things and activities of life are just that, things and activities. Here today and possibly gone tomorrow. They can change and become out of style or not with the times. But the one thing, the only thing that never ages and is still relevant today as much as yesterday and will be tomorrow is Jesus. He never changes. He is relevant, vital, fits perfectly, goes with everything, and will be the same tomorrow or in five years.

Hebrews 13:8               
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Chew on that for awhile.

God bless,

Marty

Didn't Miss 10/26/15

Good Morning,

It was a long weekend for me. One funeral, a sore tooth, and some work around the house before winter made this one a long weekend. I hope my Door County Apple Cobbler Coffee kicks in quickly. I need a push.

I did however take some time to hunt ducks each day. Sunday however was a little better because each time we shot at a duck, we did not miss. That is not always the norm for me.

       

Jeremiah 9:8

"Their tongue is a deadly arrow; It speaks deceit; With his mouth one speaks peace to his neighbor, But inwardly he sets an ambush for him.

 

Our words can be like arrows or a shot gun blast. They always land where we aim them. Once the words are set in motion, much like an arrow or a bullet they do not stop, cannot be stopped and are headed out to hurt enough to kill. We need to choose our words wisely as they can do much damage. When I hunt I always keep my finger away from the trigger so I do not shoot accidentally. I need to think about each shot and decide if it is a shot I want to take. I wish I could do that with my mouth at all times. We can control our mouths much like we can make a gun safe. We can load our mouths with kind words and practice using them. Just like we can load a gun with practice rounds. They can go bang, but nothing flies out and kills anything. Once we learn proper gun control we can actually use live ammunition and use it safely.

Hold your tongue and learn to control your words. Words can be dangerous and they know no bag limit.

God bless,

Marty

Pancakes And Bacon 10/25/2015

Good Morning,

This day started well before dawn and the travel cup was filled with Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee, extra hot. The ground was covered in frost and I headed out in search of some ducks to hunt with my good friend.

Proverbs 27:17New International Version - UK (NIVUK)

¹⁷ As iron sharpens iron,
    so one person sharpens another.

My friend Steve hunts with me from time to time. My Nephew couldn't make it due to some plumbing issues at home. He was missed. He shoots better than us old guys. Sometimes the three of us go together and that adds even more fun to our days.

Steve is more than a friend to me. He is also my accountability partner. We hold each other accountable for home, work and church. We pray for each other and keep each other on track as we fight temptations and weaknesses.

After we hunted, prayed and discussed issues, we had some time for breakfast. We went to our home and made some pumpkin pancakes and cherry smoked bacon. This meal was a feast! We chatted with Rene, cleaned our ducks and then I took him home.

When I got home, Rene mentioned to me that she just likes to listen to Steve and I talk. She said she is amazed how serious we can be and two minutes later be laughing together. She then said something that hit home! "When you pray, don't forget to be thankful for each other, not everyone has friends as close as you two. Thank the Lord and do it daily, while you still can."

She was right. The pancakes and bacon were good, but what made them great was the fellowship of two old duck hunters.

Have a pancake kind of day!

Marty

Will Work For Food 10/24/2015

Good Morning,

The weather is just right for duck hunting this morning. My Thermos Bottle is filled with Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee. The coffee should keep me alert and warm this morning.

Yesterday I drove past a man who was standing on the median of an intersection holding a sign that said he was willing to work for some food. I drove through but stopped on the other side and waved for him to come over. He was about 35 years old and had four limbs. I told him that I had a couple hours of work that I needed some help with and wondered if we could strike a deal. I was willing to pay cash or give him some food at our table or send him off with food. He asked where it was and I told him it was a mile away and that I would drive him both ways. He then asked what kind of work I had. I explained that I could use some help raking leaves. I asked him if he was feeding a family or if it was just for him. He explained that he was traveling through to Minnesota and really did not have any family. He said that he had lost his job and was headed to Minnesota on a promise of a job. Truckers had been giving him rides from Indiana thus far. So I said cash, a meal, or food to go? He preferred half in cash and the rest in sandwiches or snacks for his back pack. I agreed and asked how much cash he would be expecting for his labor. He said he would require $75.00, half in cash and half in gas cards or McDonalds cards. The deal already started to change. He then stopped and asked me if I could make it an even $100.00 for his time. I told him that I was really pushing my limit at $75.00 for two hours of easy work. I explained that I thought we had already secured a deal. The young man then told me that he really wasn't used to working for less than $50.00 per hour and the fact that I was wearing a tie and driving a large truck told him that I could probably pay a little more.
I was taken back a little at that statement and decided it was best to back out. Obviously we were not on the same page with this work contract. I decided to buy my way out at a cheap price. I offered him ten dollars labor free and he took it and walked away. As He walked away I saw him place the ten dollars into a roll that had quite a few dollars rolled up in it. I had just been scammed. I walked away smiling, knowing that his laziness and greed were not on my head. I prayed for him.
Later I headed back out to pick up a sandwich for Rene and I saw that the local police had this same man handcuffed and were loading him into a police vehicle. My prayers had been answered. I had prayed that he would not be stuck in the forthcoming rain, he would be warm, and he would be fed. Wow! Was that prayer answered.

2 Thessalonians 3:10English Standard Version (ESV)
¹⁰ For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.

I always believe in offering work if someone is capable and they are in need. I believe in a fair wage for their toil. But I also highly believe in the above verse. Offer work when you can. Most people are happy to earn what you can offer instead of receiving pity. Work with them if you can. Treat them well. But beware of those who look for handouts and won't work when they actually could.

God bless,
Marty

Lost My Keys Again! 10/23/2015

Good Morning,

Happy Friday to you my friends. This morning kicked off with a hot cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee. So let's get this one done and in the books.

While duck hunting last weekend and after walking to my truck in the dark, much to my surprise I lost my truck keys. This is a feeling that just makes you want to sink into the muck and drown. I have a bad habit of misplacing things or losing them. Things like my eye glasses, pocket knife, my wallet, and especially my keys end up being searched for repeatedly.
I had walked a long way with my nephew, dog and all our gear. We had worked up quite a sweat in doing so. The temperature was dropping and so the sweaty shirts we were wearing were starting to chill us. My comfort level was going down as fast as my blood pressure was rising. We weren't too far from home and after giving Rene some good directions and with the help of a friend our spare keys were delivered and we were able to go home.

When I removed my waders, guess what I found in the boot? Of course it was my keys!

Psalm 19:4-5New International Version - UK (NIVUK)

⁴ Yet their voice^[a] goes out into all the earth,
    their words to the ends of the world.
In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun.
⁵     It is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,
    like a champion rejoicing to run his course.

 

It seems as if my things that are entrusted to my care and my care alone are vulnerable to me and my ability to misplace them.

 

Corrie ten Boom wrote " I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God's hands, that I still possess".

 

But God has placed the sun just where it needs to be and He puts it away every night. If He can do that shouldn't we trust Him with the events of our lives? Everything I have truly placed in His hands I still have. I have entrusted Him with my life now and for eternity. I can't lose that and I will always have it. It can't be taken from me, neither.

 

I sure wish He would carry my car keys!

 

Happy Friday!

 

Marty

Throw Back Thursday??? 10/22/2015

Good Morning,

I went to work out last night and now I am a little sore. But that is a good kind of sore and my cup of Door County Maple Coffee helps me wash down the Advil. I love that coffee is a multi-purpose beverage.

People like to post on social media old pictures or memories and call it "Throw Back Thursday." I enjoy looking at those posts and get a laugh from them now and then.

 

I really have no memory of my great grandparents, except for what I was told about them from my grandparents, my Dad and my Aunt. My Dad says that I remind him of his grandmother because I use large amounts of black pepper in my soup, the same as she did. Now if you add $1.00 to that bit of information I can get a small cup of coffee somewhere. Not too important, is that bit of knowledge. I know for a fact that they were Italian and I probably inherited my love for pasta and marinara from that side of the family. I know very little about their faith. The only written history that I have collected was my great grandfather's Bible which is written in Italian. What I did find inside were notes to him from his daughters in English, written when they were very young. What I could tell from these notes were several things. These two loved Papa. They had high regard for him and a lot of respect. The notes were written on cards they must have received at church. The notes had Bible verses written on them. So it tells me that He was a man of faith, and it was important to him that his daughters observed their faith. It is a shame that people never kept journals back then of notes, thoughts and advice for their future families. I saw his legacy through the lives of his daughters.

 

I keep a journal that will get passed on to our daughter upon my death. She already knows what is important to me. But I want to place one last emphasis on things, let her look into my heart, and let her and her family know well into the future that they were loved. Family I may never meet might know my love for God and my love for them.

 

Deuteronomy 4:9    

 

"Only give heed to yourself and keep your soul diligently, so that you do not forget the things which your eyes have seen and they do not depart from your heart all the days of your life; but make them known to your sons and your grandsons.

Take note, literally. Pass on what you know, what you believe, leave a memory and a legacy.

God bless,

Marty

The Grief Of Loss. 10/21/2015

Good Morning,

My coffee this morning is Door County Caramel Apple. I am not exactly too cheery this day. Yesterday our church lost a good friend and brother to heaven. Heaven's gain is our loss. My heart and sympathy go to the family. My joy is for my dear brother in Christ who now sees the glory of heaven and the One who died for us all.

John 11:21New International Version - UK (NIVUK)
²¹ ‘Lord,’ Martha said to Jesus, ‘if you had been here, my brother would not have died.

When Jesus arrived to the home of Martha and Mary, Martha let Jesus know exactly how she felt and what was on her mind. The death of a loved one always comes hard and is still a shock even when death comes after a long terminal illness. Death is never invited and is always a shock no matter when it happens. Martha was in shock.

We will all go through a grieving process when someone we love experiences death and we see them temporarily no more. Death is a cruel reality of life. An emptiness fills us and there is suddenly a void that had always been filled before. It is hard for us to make peace with this. We are in shock at this time.

During this time, friends and family really don't know what to say or do to console those who have experienced the greater loss. 
Just be there for them as they request and need. If they want to talk, listen. Assure them that it is not wrong to be sad. Be practical and meet the real needs of the moment.

For those grieving the loss, God knows you inside and out. He knows your heart and understands that the source of your grief and sorrow is love. God will strengthen you through the Holy Spirit to battle this loss and to overcome in Jesus name.

Herman Hooker wrote.. "Death is as the foreshadowing of life. We die that we may die no more."

Love to all.

Marty

Beyond The Sunset 10/20/2015

Good Morning,

I awoke this morning to the sound of coffee brewing.  Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee will fill my cup and set me straight on my path to work.

As a duck hunter I get to see many things that those who are not in a marsh on weekends early in the morning or in the evening miss out on. Television cannot duplicate what I see in nature. A sunrise or sunset in person is always a thrill. But watching a marsh be put to sleep holds a special place for me. I look beyond the sunset and know that God is sending a signal that it's time to go home and rest.

I have a dear friend who has battled cancer with a no quit attitude. The cancer has won and it won't be long for him now. Through his battle he has always focused on others and saw God at work behind it all. He served the Lord with passion. Soon he will be called home to God for a rest, well deserved. He will move beyond the sunset. I will look forward to seeing him again. I know we will.

Beyond the sunset, O blissful morning
When with our Savior heaven is begun
Earth's toiling ended, O glorious dawning
Beyond the sunset when day is done.

Beyond the sunset, no clouds will gather
No storms will threaten, no fears annoy
O day of gladness, O day unending
Beyond the sunset eternal joy.

Beyond the sunset, a hand will guide me
To God the Father whom I adore
His glorious presence, His words of welcome
Will be my portion on that fair shore.

Beyond the sunset, O glad reunion
With our dear loved ones who've gone before
In that fair homeland we'll know no parting
Beyond the sunset forever more

John 14:2New King James Version (NKJV)
² In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

God bless. Look beyond the sunset. You will love, who you will see.

Marty

The Comfort Of Slippers 10/19/2015

Good Morning,

The coffee pot rang out this morning ahead of the alarm clock with a pot of Door County Caramel Apple. I hit the floor running today.

It's is getting colder each day now and I don't hit the floor with bare feet. My feet are nestled in my favorite pair of slippers that are lined to keep these old dogs warm.

The slippers are old and worn, but are comfortable and easy to slip into. I would actually describe them as welcoming. They are also used at the end of the day to help me relax and revive myself for the next day. 

I also find that my Bible will do the same thing in the morning and evening. It warms my soul, adds comfort to my day, welcomes me anytime, and removes stress and anxieties.

Today I posted some comfort verses for you to print or post somewhere to use like Spiritual slippers. Better yet, the Bible is God speaking those words of comfort to you. Try Him on and see that He looks good on you.

Psalms 9:9 The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

 

Psalms 27:4-5 One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in his temple. For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock.

 

Psalms 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

1 Peter 5:6-7 (KJV) Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Psalms 119:48-52 I will lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on your statutes. Remember your word to your servant, in which you have made me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life. The insolent utterly deride me, but I do not turn away from your law. When I think of your rules from of old, I take comfort, O LORD.

Have a great day!

Marty

Woke Up, And Something Smelled Great! 10/18/2015

Good Morning,

In this part of the world we woke up to a heavy coating of icy frost. To me it is a picture perfect day to be drinking Door County Apple Cobbler Coffee. I stayed outside with the back yard lights on for thirty minutes and read my Bible. That crisp air felt good!

Ephesians 5:2New King James Version (NKJV)
² And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.

No hunting for me this morning, later this afternoon works out better for me and my partner. When the dog woke me up with a nudge I could smell something coming from the kitchen. I knew it couldn't be the coffee yet and Rene had left for work at 4:AM so she wasn't baking anything. I had forgotten that I started a crock pot full of beef vegetable soup last night and it was set to start cooking when Rene headed off to work. The blended aroma of vegetables, spices and beef filled the house.

God wired us with the faculties of five senses, sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. I would not want  to miss any one of the five. But today we will talk about smell.

That pot of soup gave away such a beautiful aroma this morning and my nose picked up on it right away. The pleasing smell took my mind to a happy place within seconds. I believe the happy place aroma theory is what sells millions of dollars worth of scented candles and aroma dispensing gadgets every year. We all like a good whiff of something that smells good.

Now our noses can also detect foul odors. Notice the words change from aroma to odor, what smells good, to what stinks when the scent is bad.

People also spend millions each year if not billions on scented soaps, body washes, deodorants, perfumes and after shave.  I am an Old Spice kind of guy. If Dad hadn't worn that stuff I might not be here. We work at presenting our bodies as a smell good area.

Just as the soup started to cook and that wonderful aroma started to fill the house, it made an impression on me. It hopefully will linger a little into the day ( I am sure it will) and Rene will also be able to enjoy that comfort.

When we enter a room and encounter others, what spiritual or attitude aroma arrives with us? Are people glad we showed up? When we leave, what impression is expressed on their faces? When we interact with others are we considered the "diaper gone bad" in the room, or the scented lilac that everyone waits to smell each spring? We are to be walking in love. If that is the case and we obey, our arrival should enhance the day for others. Each place should be made a better place because of us being there.

Today you can choose to be a skunk or a rose bud.

You make the call.

Marty

Look At The Heart. God Does 10/17/2015

Good Morning,
That old mug of mine is filled with Door County Harvest Blend Coffee and I am on the road again. My truck, my Browning, Gibbs and me.

1 Samuel 16:7English Standard Version (ESV)
⁷ But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

Duck and Goose hunting requires that we be camouflaged in order to blend in with the local foliage and fool the ducks or geese into landing in a decoy spread. I really don't like wearing a face shield. I prefer to use face paint. Now when I am hunting with friends the face paint is accepted as normal and a few of them wear it also. The face paint is hard to wash off and I usually do that after I arrive home.

You should see the looks I get if on the way home if I stop at a diner with my friends for breakfast. I walk in and people give me the strangest looks and some I am sure, assume that I am a terrorist on the loose. They assume the worst. They don't know that I am a God fearing man, read my Bible, love my family, work hard, and enjoy a good laugh. They read me by what they see. I think we all have done that at least a few times in our lives. We look at the appearance and then we miss out on meeting the heart of the man.

I wonder how many great hearts I have missed out on meeting because I looked at the outer appearance? I think we need to follow God's way of looking at people. He judges the heart and makes no assumptions.

Have a great day!

Marty

Candle Light 10/16/2015

Good Morning,

Friday has arrived and I am happy to embrace it. This morning started with a hot cup of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee. No doubt in my mind at all that I am blessed today! God is good.

Psalm 18:28New King James Version (NKJV)

²⁸ For You will light my lamp;The Lord my God will enlighten my darkness.

From time to time during our lives together Rene and I have suffered an electrical power outage just like many of you have. The power fails and the house goes into total darkness. Most of these experiences have taken place during thunder storms or blizzards. The first thing that one of us does is to reach for a candle and light it. The candle flickers and then lights up bright and proud. It illuminates a room that was totally dark just seconds before. It doesn't really matter which one of us is the lamp lighter. What matters is that the candle gets lit.

We all go through dark times in our lives. Those times of despair, stress, worry, pain, hurt and anger. It seems as if the dark time will never end. The nights seem to be the worst and they last forever. We need our soul revived and we need the "Lamp Lighter". God is the only one who can illuminate dark times and allow us to carry on despite what we are experiencing. His endless love and ability to calm the storms of the heart are what we need.

When Rene and I strike a match and set it to the wick of the candle we both trust that the light will come. During those times of heavy spiritual darkness we need to trust that when we call upon God, He will strike a heart match and light our way.  We trust in so many finite things, yet we find it so hard to trust the Creator of the world. No wonder we travel the roads of life without assurance and peace. Trust Him, only trust Him.

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

 

Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

God, I pray that you will light the candle of my heart in times of need and despair. In you I trust.

 

Amen

 

Marty

Joseph Said No 10/15/2015

Good Morning,

I am not sure who all might read this today but my thoughts are this. I wish I could share my Door County Autumn Spice Coffee with you along with some toast, bacon and eggs. I bet we could find something to talk about or someone or something to pray for. Wouldn't that be a nice morning?

Genesis 39:7-12New King James Version (NKJV)
⁷ And it came to pass after these things that his master’s wife cast longing eyes on Joseph, and she said, “Lie with me.”
⁸ But he refused and said to his master’s wife, “Look, my master does not know what is with me in the house, and he has committed all that he has to my hand. ⁹ There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”
¹⁰ So it was, as she spoke to Joseph day by day, that he did not heed her, to lie with her or to be with her.
¹¹ But it happened about this time, when Joseph went into the house to do his work, and none of the men of the house was inside, ¹² that she caught him by his garment, saying, “Lie with me.” But he left his garment in her hand, and fled and ran outside.

Here we find a young man captive in a rich man's home through no fault of his own. The rich man's hot wife comes on to the young man and through what he was taught as a child he realized that to give into his lust would be sin against God. This was not just a one time thing. She pursued him "day by day". He refused to give into evil.

Just think what a world we could live in if people would just say no to impulse and sin. Joseph could easily have given in and probably tried to justify it by saying "I am in captivity. I did no wrong. I am owed a little pleasure. I'll show the man who owns me a thing or two." But he didn't. He had respect for himself, the authority over him, and most of all for God.

I believe it was the fact that he would be sinning against God, which kept him from pursuing this woman. Notice, when it got even hotter and heavier, he ran.

Do you walk away nonchalantly from sin or do you sprint like a track star? Or do you hang around just to see how much trouble you can get into without getting caught? Hanging around sin is very dangerous, when you know you should run.

So put those running shoes on today when tempted and run like a deer.

God bless,

Marty

Friendship And Soup 10/14/2015

Good Morning,

The weather here is getting a little more crisp each day. Just the way I like it. The hot Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee tastes even better when it is cold outside.

1 John 3:17
But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?

We have this small cooking pot on our shelf in the kitchen. We use it to cook different soups. We call it our friendship pot. When that little pot is simmering a batch of soup, we know that we are blessed to have friends. That particular pot is never used for ourselves. It always is used when we are making soup for someone else. I guess it is a weird custom, but as you look at the picture on the pot you see that the two "Campbell's Kids are happy.  This pot symbolizes delivering a small batch of comfort or happiness to someone we love. This week it was used and today I will deliver the soup to a couple of dear friends. I think we all know someone who could use the gift of soup and friendship right now. You might brighten their day, but in the long run, won't the soup warm your heart more? Bless someone today with your love.

God bless,

Marty

Baby Talk 10/13/15

Good Morning World!

This is a day that has been given to us by God. Let's do our best to make the most of it and make it nice for others. The old pot has brewed up a big cup of Door County Maple Coffee. I am ready to embrace it with gusto. I like that word "gusto".

I think we all have done this at least once if not more than once. We spend years in school attempting to learn proper grammar and word pronunciation and then we lose it the minute we interact with a baby. Then we drool and coo and babble just like a baby ourselves. words like little become "wittle" and apple sauce becomes "nummies". I am not knocking this at all because we all do it. It's no wonder that it takes some kids longer to speak. We teach them two different languages and one of them is baby talk. I actually am for this. Go and enjoy interacting with the babies and become young again.

But when it comes to your Bible and Spiritual growth there comes a time to start growing.

1 Corinthians 13:11New King James Version (NKJV)
¹¹ When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

2 Peter 3:18 -- "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever. Amen."

1 Peter 2:2 -- "As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that ye may grow by it." Peter began and ended his very practical epistles with an injunction for Christians to grow.

Spiritual growth is basic to the life of a believer, just as physical growth is basic to the life of any person. God commands Christians to grow

So step up to the measuring stick on the wall and see if you are growing!

Have a great day.

God "Bwess".

Marty

As Deep As The Ocean 10/12/2015

Good Morning,

My cup is calling me to taste some of The Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee that is sending steamy signals to me brain. I swear that coffee cup knows how to talk!

 

For I am convinced that neither death nor life,
neither angels nor demons,

neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation,
will be able to separate us from the love of God
that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
(Romans 8:38-39)And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,
may have power, together with all the saints,
to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,
and to know this love that surpasses knowledge –
that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
(Ephesians 3:17-19

 

 

Someone recently asked me a strange question as to what I would choose if I were asked to go to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean and see the wreck of the Titanic or travel to the International Space Station and stay there for a week.

 

I must be honest and say that seeing the Titanic intrigued me more than whizzing around in space. But, the question made me think. No matter what I chose, God would be wherever I went. God’s love is deeper than the deepest part of the sea. If I took a submarine to the bottom of the ocean, I couldn’t escape the grasp His love has upon me; I can never be separated from it. This is an incredible truth that gives strength to my soul and hope for all of my tomorrows.

 

Bible verses on God's love for me is like gasoline for a car. It fuels me to face each day with hope, contentment and joy. A hope, contentment, and joy that cannot be taken away nor can I hide from it.

 

Have a wonderful day.

 

God bless,

 

Marty

 

 



Cherishing The Quiet 10/11/2015

Good Morning,

I filled my mug with Door County Harvest Blend Coffee and my day has begun.

Psalm 131:2 “But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content.”

Rene is still sleeping and our furry family member Gibbs is watching every move I make to see when it will be time to play. The view outside of my den window shows the leaves on the apple trees half way through their fall voyage to a color change. Our sugar maple tree is starting to color the yard with brilliance as the sun hits it. A few leaves have scattered a checkered pattern of color on to the grass. As I look out of the window, with the coffee steaming , all is quiet, all is calm. And I realize that this is a gift from God and I need to take it all in and enjoy it. God has painted quite a picture today. Stillness and quiet is a gift. I pray that you can find some today.

I think we all deserve some peace and quiet. It is so restful. So please put down your work for a few moments, cease from any anger or war you harbor in your heart. Lay down the hurt, or worry and let God quiet you. Smile to yourself and a know you are worth each minute of your quiet moment.

Have a wonderful day. God loves you.

Marty

Please Don't Talk To The Lifeguard. 10/10/15

Good Morning,

My Door County Caramel Apple Coffee is still brewing, but the aroma has filled the house, so for now that makes everything alright.

Jeremiah 33:3New King James Version (NKJV)
³ ‘Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.

Psalm 121:1-8, NIV
I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip-he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you – the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm-he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore

When I was a child and the summer day was very hot we would find ourselves walking to a  close by named Jackson Park. Milwaukee has many beautiful parks and some were built with large public swimming pools. That was always a great place to cool off and burn up some energy.

For our safety the pool employed several lifeguards who sat in chairs about 6 feet up in the air so they could watch over the pool for anyone in swimming distress. They would often even tell us when we were getting too much sun. It was their job to pay attention to all safety aspects of the pool. There were signs posted asking us not to talk with the life guards except for emergencies. They could not be distracted from their duties.

Our "Ultimate Lifeguard" God in Heaven is just the opposite. He watches over us and is so amazing that He can entertain conversations in prayer from everyone and He still can perform His loving gift of watching each one of us individually. He actually in Jeremiah 33:3 asks us to call out to the Lifeguard so He can show us things.

Today as you swim through life you can know that high up on His throne our Lifeguard has an eye on you.

God bless,

Marty

How To Say Thank You 10/9/2015

Good Morning,

This morning has come already. I wish we could set the clocks back, just one hour. But the Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee is brewing already and my cup needs to be filled and tasted!

I had to do a little shopping yesterday and at the end of my adventure I needed to wait in line to check out and pay. The line wasn't too long and before I knew it I was unloading my cart and the clerk was scanning my items. I said hello and did not receive a hello back. I thought the young lady must be a little shy. I said "how are you today"? And I received a "fine".  So after she had finished scanning my purchases and they were bagged she told me what the amount was that I needed to pay. I pulled out my wallet and handed her my cash. My change came to $4.38. She handed me the change and started to check out the next customer. Not a word was said to me!

I then decided that I needed to pursue this just a little further. I said "Miss excuse me. You never said hello, how are you, did you find everything and you never once made eye contact with me. The reason I cam back was to say thank you for allowing me to purchase these items in the store where you work and receive a pay check. So please let me express a thank you for allowing me to spend at times, large amounts of money here.  Here reply was "maybe you should shop elsewhere if you are looking for a warm fuzzy feeling. I checked you out, bagged the groceries with you and you want to chat. I don't chat".  I left astonished that she still had a job with the way she treated people.

Friends, we neat to put politeness back into society. Please and thank you should never have left the scene of daily living. Courtesy should be taught in the schools once again right after the Ten Commandments are memorized. A kind word goes a long way. I plan on still shopping there and will actually try hard to keep my eye out for this young lady.  I will make sure to say hello and see if a smile can win this little sour puss over. I know one thing for sure. I just prayed for her.

Titus 3:2   
To speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.

Have a great weekend.

Marty

The Warning Signs Of Danger 10/8/2015

Good Morning,

I arrived home to a warm house last night after a great week away in North Dakota hunting ducks. My mug is filled with Door County Maple Coffee, the dog is still tired and both of us are a little sore from our trip. But content and happy are the two words that best describe us.

Proverbs 27:12
The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.

On our trip we stayed in a very small town. I only met one person from the area and he was a very nice host and super friendly. But I do believe that at one time years ago the town actually had a little more hustle and bustle to it. On the outside of town was an old abandoned school house.

Now I have to tell you that old abandoned buildings really intrigue me. I picture in my mind what it must have looked like when it was being used? I ask myself questions, like "why was it abandoned? Was it flooding that caused it not to be used?" I know the area suffered from some massive flooding in the past. I should have asked our host about the school. All week long I had to drive past the building and the temptation to stop and peek in was just driving me nuts? "Could I peek in some how"?  The building was clearly marked DANGER on the outside, but the attraction was causing me to develop ideas as to how I could look in just a little. " That wouldn't hurt?"  I actually had to pray to get my perspective straight.

1. It do not belong to me.
2. In order to peek in, I might have to climb or move a board. The board removal would have been illegal. Then it would be a crime.
3. It was marked "DANGER" and that meant something bad could happen.

Yet, I still had devised several reasons and plans that seemed ok in my mind. I can say that I did not follow through and satisfied myself with a Bible verse that settled the whole thing.

Proverbs 14:12New King James Version (NKJV)

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

 

You see, my plan was definitely not God's plan and every warning sign was there. What warning signs are you walking around or through today? What one thing are you tempted to peek at, that you shouldn't? Would God condone your plan? He clearly did not approve of mine, no matter how I tried to justify one little peek.

 

I am safe at home in one piece, no tickets for trespassing, and happy to say that God's Word saved me from who knows what?

 

AMEN

Marty

In The Wake Of The Storm 10/6/2015

Good Morning,

I am still hunting in North Dakota and really missing the Door County Coffee. I though of having some sent over night air but that would be a little extreme.

John 14:12   
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.

It seems as if the hurricane out East has caused a lot of damage and claimed too many lives. Being in North Dakota in the middle of nowhere  is not exactly nowhere anymore. The internet and cell phone service has kept me in touch. Besides the hurricane the storms of life continue to ravage on. Death from illness struck, cancer seems to be on the prowl in a big way, leaky roofs, rape, injured backs, you name it and this week has already seen it's share. I have had a little more time to pray these days, and that is about all I can do right now.

Each one of these instances requires us to pray, and then pray again. Just when you think it is enough prayer, pray some more. It is at times like these when Jesus can be seen through others who care. You might not know anyone that was aboard the cargo ship that went down, but you can pray and God  might tell you to send a couple of dollars to a special fund for their families. You might be able to console someone this week. God often shows Himself through the work of others. That other could be you!

Think about it. What difference will you make today?

Marty

Seeing Through Other's Eyes. 10/5/2015

Good Morning,

Still In North Dakota hunting ducks with a great bunch of guys. If I had remembered to pack Door County Highlander Grog, we would be drinking it. But my brain is tired and forgetful.

Luke 6:37New King James Version (NKJV)

Do Not Judge

³⁷ “Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.

The picture above is my dog Gibbs watching intently for ducks while sitting with me in the duck marsh. He sees every bird as ones that can be shot. In reality, some are two far away to shoot and some are protected and can't be harvested in an amount more than one. But Gibbs doesn't know that. He just wants me to shoot and then he gets to bring back a duck. His patience with me is very low at times. I showed this picture today because what I see is a marsh, some decoys and the potential for ducks to come. Gibbs sees the same thing, but he also sees sea gulls, black birds and others. He wants them all shot. When I look at this through his eyes I can't blame him. Getting muddy, swimming, and bringing back a bird and receiving praise is what he lives for.

We see other people doing things that we don't understand, or have low tolerance for. But do we look at their lives through their eyes? Do we see them through God's eyes? Who are we to judge, when we have our own idiosyncrasies? When he wants me to shoot an illegal bird, I say no, but don't look down on him, because I have been tempted to want to do the same thing.  Let's not judge today. Let's look at others through God's eyes and see if we see things differently.

God bless,

Marty

Dig A Little Deeper 10/4/15

Good Morning,

If I were home the old mug would be filled with Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee. But I am not, and whatever brew we are having is just fine as I head out to the duck marshes again today.

When digging a well the best water is found deeper. The first water one finds is usually ground water  that seeps into the ground and will fill your well first. But the deeper you go  will lead you to better water. But it takes extra labor to dig deeper if you want purity in your water.

If we truly desire to live a good and pure life, we have to dig deeper to avoid the pitfalls of temptation. It takes labor and great effort to live that life that we would all like.

So here's the choice, if you want it are you ready to work to win?

Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

Fight hard. You can do it.

Marty

Duck Season Starts Today 10/3/2015

Good Morning,

This morning is starting early. I am in North Dakota duck hunting today with a group of friends. The smell of wet dogs, the smell of gun powder, the sound of duck calls as well as gun fire will be the order of the day. If I were home the pot would have brewed some Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee.

 

It seems funny to write a Biblical Blog and talk about duck season. The point of this note is to say that as much as I love duck hunting I cannot do it all year round. There is a certain time of the year for the season to start and begin. We have to wait for a good thing. It doesn't start early just because we want it to. It ends right on time and you cannot change the date.

Here's the message. We have to wait on God at times. Only He knows when and what He is going to do. But if we wait patiently for Him we can count on Him to answer and provide His way, in His time. Whatever He does or doesn't do is what is best for us. God renews our strength and wills in due time.

Isaiah 40:31New King James Version (NKJV)

³¹ But those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.

 

God Bless,

Marty

Friends and Travel 10/2/2015

Good Morning,

If I were able to I would be drinking a big cup of Door County Red Velvet Mocha. But that won't be possible.

This morning I find myself in Fargo North Dakota on my way to a duck hunt that I have been waiting for all year. There are three of us guys and two dogs. Gibbs and Boomer are our two retrieving maniac dogs. We were blessed with great travel weather and as always good companionship.

Here is what I noticed with us three. There is no selfishness among us. I truly like and appreciate that among friends.

Philippians 2:3   
Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

Surround yourself with good friends. It is the key to many happy memories.

God Bless,
Marty

Applying The Brakes 10/1/2015

Good Morning,

What a day for a duck hunt! Up early and the pot is brewing a hot cup of Door County Maple Coffee for me. I have looked forward to this week for a long time.

Luke 10:25-37New King James Version (NKJV)

The Parable of the Good Samaritan

²⁵ And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”
²⁶ He said to him, “What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?”
²⁷ So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’^[a] and ‘your neighbor as yourself.’”^[b]
28 And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; do this and you will live.”
²⁹ But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
³⁰ Then Jesus answered and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. ³¹ Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. ³² Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. ³³ But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. ³⁴ So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. ³⁵ On the next day, when he departed,^[c] he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.’ ³⁶ So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?”
³⁷ And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.”
Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

Last night while driving home I was looking up ahead and saw that most of the cars were lighting up their brakes like a cheap Christmas tree. I started applying my brakes early enough so that I would not be a hazard to anyone ahead. I looked in my rear view mirror and what I saw had me more than nervous. A car was coming up on the back of my Jeep and was not slowing down. By this time I was at a complete stop with about four car spaces between me and the car in front of me.

The other driver must have realized that she needed to apply the brakes and in a hurry. I could see the smoke rising from the pavement as she skidded closer. I decided to move forward and take advantage of the extra space in front of me. It was just enough to avoid the impending crash. I pulled over anyway and so did she. I assumed the worst like "was she applying make up and driving, changing radio stations, looking up a sale at Walmart on her phone"??? She apologized for her almost huge mistake. I could see that her shirt was wet with tears. She said she had been crying while driving. The young lady was running late to pick up her baby from day care. The lateness would cause her to pay another $40.00 for the week and she was struggling as it was already. The baby's father had just left them both high and dry. Another driver thought we actually hit and she pulled over to see if we were OK. She heard the story and reached into her purse and pulled out a $100 bill and gave it to the younger lady and said " Been there myself. Slow down. This will cover the extra day care. Stop at McDonald's and eat or wherever you would like and hug your baby."

She thanked me for not having road rage and offered to pray with both of us. I accepted the gift of prayer and wanted to get in on the nice action. I had been given many potatoes as a gift. I had ten pounds with me and I gave them to our young race driver Momma. Unfortunately she started to cry again, but was under control when we watched her pull into traffic. I turned to say thank you to our Good Samaritan and she too was driving away. I stood there a moment and wondered about all that had just happened. I saw people at their best. A mom who was working hard and all she had on her mind was taking care of her baby. A lady who cared enough to stop. A guy who gave potatoes out of the goodness of his heart and allows me to gift people with them. I guess it was a day that gets an A+ for a grade.

God bless,

Marty