Farewell To January 1/31/2017

Good Morning,

I can't wait until the Door County Black Velvet Coffee is finished brewing. It is going to be a great addition to my Cheerios. We say farewell to January today and hello to February tomorrow.

What's missing in the picture above? This is a photo of a place  where Rene and I like to stay for short getaways. This is a small sitting area that I will often do some very early morning reading. It is warm and very inviting. The small fireplace is adequate and the quiet is heavenly.

But what's missing in the photo? The answer is simple. It is Rene and I sitting and enjoying our surroundings and one another's company. You see, a room is just a room until people are added. A house is just a house until people make it a home.  A book is not enjoyed until someone opens it and reads. A fireplace does no one any good until a person lights it. This place cannot be enjoyed unless someone goes there.  A prayer is not a prayer until it is said. People are important to all of us. But!!!

During these uncertain times we all need to retreat to a quiet place and enjoy some time away from politics, economies, violence and anger. Did I mention that we spend some great quiet time here? During our time away we both find that our prayer time is just a little sweeter because we have removed ourselves from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We take time to enjoy the quiet and spend it with God in prayer.

Quiet is Important for Spiritual Growth

“But the LORD is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him.” (Habakkuk 2:20)

 

“In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength.” (Isaiah 30:15)

 

“Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10

So have a terrific day! Find some quiet.

Marty

Try, Try And Try Again. Making Butter? 1/30/2017

Good Morning,

Wow, the weekend went by faster than I wanted. The mug sitting next to me is filled with Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee. I wish we could share a cup and an English Muffin this morning.

I like to write about my adventures. One I haven't written about was my attempt at making butter at home. It really was one of those experiences that did not turn out very well at all. The butter I came up with at then end could best be described as the melted butter you see in a theatre just before they pump it on to your popcorn, and it was way too salty. I tried that stunt about two years ago and considered it a total failure.

But that butter churn keeps staring at me and the butter press/stamp for customizing my one pound bars sits on the shelf laughing at me.

They have taunted me into trying again. I will keep you all posted. It is not like me to quit trying at something until I can't go on anymore. I don't quit easy. But I guess just going to the store and purchasing butter is a lot easier. I lost sight of my goal. I wanted my own butter and it was going to be fresh. I was going to give it away as gifts.

In our Christian walk we will have failures, like committing to read through our Bibles in a year. Something comes up and we don't complete our goal. But we will never complete a goal if we quit.

We miss out on what God might have said in that Scripture or prayer time. We can start over and try to succeed again. But we should never quit. We should be faithful at church. For whatever reason folks stop going to church for awhile and then feel guilty about returning, so they don't. They quit on the family God gave to them.  If this is you, get back to church. Set a goal of not missing church, Bible study, fellowships or prayer meetings. Don't quit. Go back and start to grow again.

Hebrews 12:1-3New International Version (NIV)

12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, ² fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. ³ Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart

God is our biggest Supporter. He is in your corner and cheering you on. Don't quit! Butter is going to happen this year!

God Bless,

Marty

The Story Of Fritz, Never Say Never 1/29/2017

Good Morning,

The house is taking just a little longer to warm up today. That gives me an excuse to have another hot cup of Door County Mocha Mint Coffee. The glow from the fireplace should soon be a little hotter. It's funny to watch our dog Gibbs snuggle up to the hearth and then go back to sleep. He is one happy camper when the fireplace is lit.

I am going to go back in time for me today and write about  "Fritz".  Rene and I did youth work in at church during our younger days. One particular year had a larger than normal freshman class. In that class was a little blond girl named Katy. She would have a lot of fun with her friends and some of the female leaders. She was a little standoffish  and shy around the male leaders. This needed to change

.

That first year found us going to Mexico for our mission trip. We were to build a house for a homeless lady and her three boys. Katy was a member of the team. The house was close to completion and somehow our ladders disappeared and we needed to do some wall work from the outside. On one side of the little house was a small ditch that made the work impossible without a ladder. We arrived at the idea that the girls would work by standing on our shoulders. We all looked at couple of them and decided that two of them fit the bill. We needed the skinnier frames to be hoisted on to our shoulders. Katy was one of those 90 pound carpenters.

That is where it began. A trusting friendship started with a lift. When we got home and back into youth group swing, I asked Katy's Mom if she would consider allowing Katy to earn some money by working with me performing plumbing jobs. I was still moonlighting at night and weekends for extra money.  Her mother is a strong lady who was raising two kids and had committed to having Katy to attend a private Christian High School. The tuition there was steep for a one home income. Katy had asked for prayer in youth group for the burden of tuition. I needed a helper and I now know that my plumbing skills were and answer to her prayer. She earned every dollar she made with hard work.

With he mother's permission we started our plumbing journey. As a teen I always listened to a local radio show on Saturdays. It was the "Fritz The Plumber Polka Show". It wasn't too long before Katy's official nick name became "Fritz". Even the other kids at church referred to her as Fritz. We worked through her high school years together and would have deep theology discussions, and many nonsense discussions like " does screaming make you warmer when the weather temperature is below zero."? Katy quickly picked up a lot of plumbing knowledge and the two of us to could soon replace every water pipe in a home in a ten hour day.

Our plumbing escapades found us in many strange places. Like the time one of us had to go into a very tight space and solder a large pipe. Obviously I would not fit, so Fritz had to crawl in. She asked "am I coming out"? I replied "maybe!" We were quite the circus at times.

In our time working together Katy blossomed into a natural leader within youth group. She led a few mission trips with me and always worked hard. She did whine once about having to sleep in a brothel, but that's another story and a funny one at that. But while working together, a bond of love and trust was established. I remember one night when we were  talking about marriage and I asked her how she felt about it. Her reply was "I want a manly man and nothing else will do. I really think I will never marry anyone." I laughed and thought to myself "really? Never say never!" I started to pray for her, hoping someday she would meet a manly guy and build a loving, trusting relationship. Katy and her mom moved further North of us  later and our meetings together became less and less. But I always continued to pray for her. People at church still ask me. "What do you hear from Fritz?"

Last Friday night Rene and I went out to eat and  meet Katy and Matt. Matt is a manly guy, but you can see his soft side, especially when he looks at Katy. "Mr. Never" has shown up and the two of them will be married in April. That skinny little girl turned into a beautiful woman and she waited to find just what God had in store for her.

I will be filling in for Katy's Dad and have the honor of walking that little plumber down the aisle. Besides my jaunt down memory lane, I want all of you to think about this. If we wait on God we can count on Him to bring to us what is best. God knew many, many years ago who Matt would have in his life and He was preparing both Matt and Katy for each other. So my prayer for them is that they will continue to build that bond of trust, and see each as a gift prepared for them by God. I truly believe God supplied His best for both of them.

Genesis 2:22New International Version (NIV)
²² Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib^[a he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man

Wait on the Lord and never say never!

Marty

A Boy And A Sling Shot 1/28/2017

Good Morning,

Nothing like a Saturday morning in front of the fireplace sipping a cup of Door County Apple Cobbler Coffee. I was outside earlier today with our dog Gibbs sitting at the picnic table in twenty degree weather watching the steam rise from my cup. This is a great morning.

Every now and then we all run into problems of great proportion. It just seems impossible for the outcome to turn out any good at all. A young man named David faced a giant of a problem in the battle between the Israelites and the Philistines. The passage I chose to share today is a long one. But please do not gloss over it. The lesson for this morning is within. What are you allowing to stare you down or intimidate you? Is your trust in yourself or God Almighty? If God brought you to it, He surely can bring you through it.

1 Samuel 17:1-25:7New International Version (NIV)

David and Goliath

17 Now the Philistines gathered their forces for war and assembled at Sokoh in Judah. They pitched camp at Ephes Dammim, between Sokoh and Azekah. ² Saul and the Israelites assembled and camped in the Valley of Elah and drew up their battle line to meet the Philistines. ³ The Philistines occupied one hill and the Israelites another, with the valley between them.

⁴ A champion named Goliath, who was from Gath, came out of the Philistine camp. His height was six cubits and a span.⁵ He had a bronze helmet on his head and wore a coat of scale armor of bronze weighing five thousand shekels; ⁶ on his legs he wore bronze greaves, and a bronze javelin was slung on his back. ⁷ His spear shaft was like a weaver’s rod, and its iron point weighed six hundred shekels. His shield bearer went ahead of him.

⁸ Goliath stood and shouted to the ranks of Israel, “Why do you come out and line up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and are you not the servants of Saul? Choose a man and have him come down to me. ⁹ If he is able to fight and kill me, we will become your subjects; but if I overcome him and kill him, you will become our subjects and serve us.” ¹⁰ Then the Philistine said, “This day I defy the armies of Israel! Give me a man and let us fight each other.” ¹¹ On hearing the Philistine’s words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified.

¹² Now David was the son of an Ephrathite named Jesse, who was from Bethlehem in Judah. Jesse had eight sons, and in Saul’s time he was very old. ¹³ Jesse’s three oldest sons had followed Saul to the war: The firstborn was Eliab; the second, Abinadab; and the third, Shammah. ¹⁴ David was the youngest. The three oldest followed Saul, ¹⁵ but David went back and forth from Saul to tend his father’s sheep at Bethlehem.

¹⁶ For forty days the Philistine came forward every morning and evening and took his stand.

¹⁷ Now Jesse said to his son David, “Take this ephah of roasted grain and these ten loaves of bread for your brothers and hurry to their camp. ¹⁸ Take along these ten cheeses to the commander of their unit. See how your brothers are and bring back some assurance from them. ¹⁹ They are with Saul and all the men of Israel in the Valley of Elah, fighting against the Philistines.”

²⁰ Early in the morning David left the flock in the care of a shepherd, loaded up and set out, as Jesse had directed. He reached the camp as the army was going out to its battle positions, shouting the war cry. ²¹ Israel and the Philistines were drawing up their lines facing each other. ²² David left his things with the keeper of supplies, ran to the battle lines and asked his brothers how they were. ²³ As he was talking with them, Goliath, the Philistine champion from Gath, stepped out from his lines and shouted his usual defiance, and David heard it. ²⁴ Whenever the Israelites saw the man, they all fled from him in great fear.

²⁵ Now the Israelites had been saying, “Do you see how this man keeps coming out? He comes out to defy Israel. The king will give great wealth to the man who kills him. He will also give him his daughter in marriage and will exempt his family from taxes in Israel.”

²⁶ David asked the men standing near him, “What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and removes this disgrace from Israel? Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?”

²⁷ They repeated to him what they had been saying and told him, “This is what will be done for the man who kills him.”

²⁸ When Eliab, David’s oldest brother, heard him speaking with the men, he burned with anger at him and asked, “Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is; you came down only to watch the battle.”

²⁹ “Now what have I done?” said David. “Can’t I even speak?” ³⁰ He then turned away to someone else and brought up the same matter, and the men answered him as before. ³¹ What David said was overheard and reported to Saul, and Saul sent for him.

³² David said to Saul, “Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him.”

³³ Saul replied, “You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him; you are only a young man, and he has been a warrior from his youth.”

³⁴ But David said to Saul, “Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, ³⁵ I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. ³⁶ Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. ³⁷ The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.”

Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you.”

³⁸ Then Saul dressed David in his own tunic. He put a coat of armor on him and a bronze helmet on his head. ³⁹ David fastened on his sword over the tunic and tried walking around, because he was not used to them.

“I cannot go in these,” he said to Saul, “because I am not used to them.” So he took them off. ⁴⁰ Then he took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones from the stream, put them in the pouch of his shepherd’s bag and, with his sling in his hand, approached the Philistine.

⁴¹ Meanwhile, the Philistine, with his shield bearer in front of him, kept coming closer to David. ⁴² He looked David over and saw that he was little more than a boy, glowing with health and handsome, and he despised him. ⁴³ He said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come at me with sticks?” And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. ⁴⁴ “Come here,” he said, “and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and the wild animals!”

⁴⁵ David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. ⁴⁶ This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. ⁴⁷ All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.”

⁴⁸ As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. ⁴⁹ Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground.

⁵⁰ So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.

⁵¹ David ran and stood over him. He took hold of the Philistine’s sword and drew it from the sheath. After he killed him, he cut off his head with the sword.

When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned and ran. ⁵² Then the men of Israel and Judah surged forward with a shout and pursued the Philistines to the entrance of Gath and to the gates of Ekron. Their dead were strewn along the Shaaraim road to Gath and Ekron. ⁵³ When the Israelites returned from chasing the Philistines, they plundered their camp.

⁵⁴ David took the Philistine’s head and brought it to Jerusalem; he put the Philistine’s weapons in his own tent.

⁵⁵ As Saul watched David going out to meet the Philistine, he said to Abner, commander of the army, “Abner, whose son is that young man?”

Abner replied, “As surely as you live, Your Majesty, I don’t know.”

⁵⁶ The king said, “Find out whose son this young man is.”

⁵⁷ As soon as David returned from killing the Philistine, Abner took him and brought him before Saul, with David still holding the Philistine’s head.

⁵⁸ “Whose son are you, young man?” Saul asked him.

David said, “I am the son of your servant Jesse of Bethlehem.”

 

We see in this passage that David possessed faith in God. He also possessed a memory that helped him recall the times the Lord had rescued Him before. David not only looked ahead to the defeat of Goliath but before He even started the battle he proclaimed loudly the glory of God and that it was Him alone who already had won the battle.

 

May people make their biggest issue  the defining moment of their life. I know a man who lost his job several years ago and instead of calling on God and waiting, he became depressed and motionless except to drink from the bottle of doom and gloom. When he was offered a job he turned it down saying "why try, I will just lose it anyway". When he thought He was defeated God was what he needed. Now he is homeless and sorrowful. The liquor has dome permanent damage to his body.

 

So if you are in a season of fear and despair, load your sling shot with the love of God to bring you through it. Trust in Him alone. If this finds you terminally ill, call upon the name of the Lord and be saved. Trust in Him to bring you through to heaven. The love and promises of Jesus to bring us home safely to heaven are unwavering if we trust in Jesus and call upon Him.

 

If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.

 

 

Love you all.

 

Marty

Do Me A Favor And Call Me Old School 1/27/2017

Good Morning,

Door County Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Coffee is brewing in the kitchen and my oatmeal is almost done also. Friday arrived as promised and I for one am glad to see it.

I was listening to a guy who was talking about the different generations. The greatest generation, the baby boomers, gen x, and millennials. He was telling me all he knew on the subject. He guessed from my age that I am a "baby boomer". I never really thought of myself fitting into that generation. But I guess by age I have to fall in somewhere.

But I really prefer to be called old school. Some of my ideals have been tossed aside by others for new ways and different methods. I still believe the kitchen table is the place to gather and plates are meant to be used, then washed and put away. Pasta sauce is best when it is homemade. I believe that kids can be spanked. I believe that teachers are authorities and should be respected. I believe that parents are to blame for their kids poor education. I believe that people have the right to burn the flag of the United States, I also believe that it shows lack of respect and I would never burn the flag. I believe that every baby deserves a chance to live and that those who need help raising a child should receive it. If this makes me "Old School" I want to stay in school forever. Put the Ten Commandments back into the schools. I believe that if I treat you nicely, you should return the kindness.

  Ecclesiastes 5:3-6 Daydreaming comes when there are too many worries. Careless speaking comes when there are too many words. When you make a promise to God, don’t be slow to keep it because God doesn’t like fools. Keep your promise. It is better not to make a promise than to make one and not keep it. Don’t let your mouth talk you into committing a sin. Don’t say in the presence of a temple messenger, “My promise was a mistake!” Why should God become angry at your excuse and destroy what you’ve accomplished?

Further more I believe that a handshake binds a deal, and that the handshake is always delivered by looking the other person in the eye. I believe your yes should be yes and your no be a no. I believe that promises are to be kept and a person should keep their word.

Put me into whatever generation the media and magazines want to categorize people into, but please keep me in a class that is called "Old School". Like the picture above I might be older and run down, but I am still standing. I stand for my beliefs and don't waver on them like the wind, as others do.
I believe in finding solutions, not belly aching when I don't get my way.

Now this Old Guy needs to keep his word and go to work.

God bless,

Marty

Preparing For Snow 1/26/2017

Good Morning,

I just poured a hot cup of Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee and I am watching the steam rise and float away. Now that's hot coffee to say the least.

Last night we were warned about some snow coming our way over the next few days. So I hauled in some extra firewood and made sure the snow blowers started. It has been quite a few weeks since I needed to use them and I always like to be prepared. I filled the vehicles gasoline and was content to rest after all that work was done.

Rene was waiting for me when I came inside from my chores quite content and happy with myself.  Her remark was somewhat funny. "You function best when you are outside and busy".  I had to think about that for a moment and agreed with her. I like being outside no matter how cold it gets. I like snow flakes falling on my face and I like wearing warm clothes.

But then my thoughts turned to summer and I again found myself outside. I am always the last one in the house. I would rather wind down in a chair on the patio listening to a baseball game and drinking lemonade than watching television. I enjoy thunderstorms and a good display of lightning. I like to putz in the garage making things or reconstructing antiques.

So I pondered her remark and thought to myself "I am happier outside". Now what's the big deal about enjoying the outdoors? The answer is "NOTHING AT ALL." We all have peculiarities and I will own the fact that mine are odd.

John 1:12New International Version (NIV)
¹² Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—

I might be known as the outdoor neighbor, a healthcare worker, husband, father, grandpa, duck hunter, church elder, friend or foe. But in none of those titles do I find my identity or my significance.  My true identity is a sinner saved by grace, a child of the King, an heir to a Kingdom and a member of the family of God. God made me and I am one of a kind. I am "Designer Made". Some day by the grace of God and because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ I will be going home to heaven for eternity.

That is my real identity. In that identity I find my significance. One man died for me, because He loved me. That's all I need to know.  I am more than a guy with a warm hat, hot coffee, and snow blowers that start.

And so are you!

God bless,

Marty

The Sifter 1/25/2017

Good Morning,

I hear the familiar sound of Door County Black Velvet Coffee brewing in the kitchen. I am thinking that I should move the coffee maker next to the desk for convenience.

The picture below is one of the many antiques that grace our kitchen. It is an old flour sifter and combination measuring cup.

The device is used to measure flour and sift it finely, thus avoiding lumpiness in the dough. The sifter is cranked and forces the flour through a screen and into a bowl. That flour is more than strained.

Luke 22:31-32New King James Version (NKJV)
³¹ And the Lord said,“Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. ³² But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.”

We see in the Scripture above that Jesus is telling Peter that Satan has asked to sift him like wheat. What does that mean for Peter? What does that mean for us today?  John Piper writes

"What does Satan aim to do? What does "sifting like wheat" refer to in real life? The best clue comes in the next sentence where Jesus says, "But I prayed for you that your faith fail not." Satan aims to sift Simon and the others like wheat. Jesus aims to keep Simon's faith from failing. So probably "sifting like wheat" means doing something to make the disciples' faith fail.
We can imagine a picture like this: Satan has a big sieve with jagged-edged wires forming a mesh with holes shaped like faithless men and women. What he aims to do is throw people into this sieve and shake them around over these jagged edges until they are so torn and weak and desperate that they let go of their faith and fall through the sieve as faithless people, right into Satan's company. Faith cannot fall through the mesh. It's the wrong shape. And so as long as the disciples hold to their faith, trusting the power and goodness of God for their hope, then they will not fall through the mesh into Satan's hands.
Therefore the sifting of Simon Peter and the others is Satan's effort to destroy their faith. And this remains Satan's main goal today. It is relatively unimportant to Satan whether we are healthy or sick, rich or poor; what he wants is to sift out our faith. If he can do it by suffering, he will try that; if he can do it by wealth, he will try that. Peter learned a good lesson that night. Some 30 years later he wrote in 1 Peter 5:8, 9: "Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour. Resist him firm in your faith." Jesus pictured Satan as a farmer shaking Christians in his sieve, trying to tear them apart from their faith. Peter pictures Satan as a lion who can devour anything but faith. The only person that can fit through Satan's sieve is an unbeliever. The only thing that will fit down the lion's throat is an unbeliever. This is the victory that overcomes Satan's sieve and Satan's throat, our faith (1 John 5:4). If we hold it fast to the end, Satan cannot destroy us. That's why John writes to the church of Smyrna in Revelation 2:10: "

Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death and I will give you the crown of life.

Yes, God does allow us to be sifted, but if we hold steadfast in our faith, our faith grows stronger.  When our faith grows stronger, those who were once weak now become the encourager. Peter was used through his sifting to encourage us through his writing.  There is purpose behind the sifting.

So if today you need encouragement because your faith is being tested, look up to the Author and Finisher of your faith. As in Peter's case, Jesus is interceding for you with prayer.

Hang in there.

Marty

Not Waiting Has It's Consequences 1/24/2107

Good Morning,

A dear friend of mine tries to see if she can guess and match the coffee I am  drinking in the morning. I decided to make it easy today. My mug is filled with Door County Cherry Crème Coffee. This is one of my old favorites.

There are times in life when we need to wait on God. Many people find that waiting for anything is nearly impossible for them. I am one who urges the microwave to go faster. I forget what life was like pre-microwave. Not being patient has consequences. let's look at the life of Jacob.

Jacob’s life began with a struggle. As a twin in the womb with Esau, he jostled for position and was born grasping his brother’s heel. Jacob’s name is translated as “he deceives” (Genesis 25:26). When his mother, Rebekah, asked God during her pregnancy what was happening to her, God told her that there were two nations within her womb who would become divided. One would be stronger than the other, and the older would serve the younger (Genesis 25:23).

Jacob and Esau grew up together living a nomadic life. Esau became a fine hunter and loved to be out and about in the countryside while Jacob was a quiet, “stay-at–home” type (Genesis 25:27). Esau, being a hunter, was his father’s favorite as Isaac loved the wild game Esau brought home, while Jacob was favored by his mother (Genesis 25:28). This destructive favoritism would follow the family into the next generation, most notably with Jacob’s son Joseph. Such was Jacob’s favoritism for Joseph that it caused great resentment among his brothers and nearly cost Joseph his life.

When Isaac was old and his eyesight faded, he realized he was near to his death and made arrangements with Esau to pass on to him the blessings due to the firstborn son (Genesis 27:1-4). On hearing this, Rebekah hatched a plan to deceive Isaac into blessing Jacob instead. Thus, Jacob received his father’s blessing, and as Esau discovered, this was the second time he had been deceived by his brother (Genesis 27:36). Esau vowed he would kill Jacob for this as soon as the period of mourning was over for his father’s death (vs. 41).

I assume that Jacob knew what God had told his mother.  Their trust in God to bring it about was very low. They decided to take matters into their own hands. they could not wait on the promise of God. What resulted was a promise to kill Jacob by Esau and twenty years of Jacob looking over his shoulder in fear waiting for a beat down by his brother. Jacob lived in fear.

As Christians today, we are still impatient and want God to move on our commands, not the other way around. If we find ourselves in a position to wait on the Lord we should wait and stay content, pouring ourselves into prayer and the Word. This will keep us from jumping ahead in God's plan and screwing things up totally.

Waiting is not the norm these days. But when we forget to wait on God, we rush things ourselves and tell God He is not that important. We take control of situations and many times we end up wrestling with Go, instead of being led by Him,

This is most non-productive and is a worthless waste of time when jump ahead of God. Wait on the Lord and soar like the eagles instead of cowering in fear like a mouse. Jacob had to cower.

Learn to wait and be content.

Marty

Symptoms Of Cold, Symptoms Of A Cold Heart 1/23/2016

Good Morning,

The Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee can't brew fast enough for me today. I have a busy week ahead of me as always.

We all know the symptoms of a cold. But just in case, I will repost those for all of us. Typically we can diagnose a cold ourselves. But for me, it always seems like a cold sneaks up on me without warning.

People may experience:

Pain areas: in the muscles

Cough: can be with phlegm

Nasal: congestion, runny nose, sneezing, loss of smell, redness, or post-nasal drip

Whole body: chills, fatigue, fever, malaise, or body ache

Eyes: watery eyes, itchiness, or redness

Head: congestion or sinus pressure

Also common: chest discomfort, headache, swollen lymph nodes, or throat irritation

Some common cold remedies are;

Unfortunately, colds don’t have a treatment that works 100 percent of the time. The list of home remedies for colds is extensive. Many are anecdotal and passed down from generation to generation, though a few do have some merit if you’re looking for symptom relief. These are the ones I use.
The most common home remedies used to treat cold symptoms include:

Rest and hydration. Resting helps your body fight the invading virus. One of the most common symptoms is fatigue, so you’ll need the extra down time anyway.

Ingesting water, tea, and soups is a great way to stay hydrated. When you have a cold your body uses a lot of fluid to fight the infection and produce nasal fluids. This means that you’ll need to hydrate more than you would on a normal day. I always neglect this advice and I have had colds get much worse.

Saltwater gargle

Soothe a sore throat with a warm water and salt gargle. Dissolve 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Gargle with the water for a few seconds two to three times a day.

Healing foods

Ginger is often effective at reducing sore throats and easing coughs. Shave a few thin pieces of ginger into a cup of hot water. Let it steep for a few minutes, and then sip. Honey is another great option. Honey is antibacterial and antimicrobial. Adding honey to your hot tea may help reduce coughing and ease a sore throat.

Herbs

Echinacea is a popular alternative treatment in Native American traditions. Today, it’s used as an alternative treatment. The flavonoids in the herb may boost your immune system and reduce inflammation caused by the cold virus.

Probiotics

The bacteria in your gut have a big impact on your overall health. Research shows that the higher your concentration of good bacteria in your gut, the easier fighting off illnesses will be.
With this in mind, it may be beneficial to eat plenty of yogurt while you’re sick. You may also wish to take a daily probiotic supplement. The added good bacteria may help ease symptoms of your cold. It can also reduce your risks for developing another cold in the future.

Cold Heart  Disease

We can also let a cold heart sneak up on us. Before we know it we have become like cold slabs of fish in our marriages. The potential is there for a great meal, but the desire to cook it is gone. Before too long the fish begins to stink. A way to diagnose the start of a cold heart is to compare your actions, and thoughts to Scripture.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7New International Version (NIV)
⁴ Love is patient, (Am I?) love is kind (Am I?). It does not envy( Do I?), it does not boast,( Do I?) it is not proud.(Am I Prideful?) ⁵ It does not dishonor others(Do I Talk Poorly About My Spouse?) it is not self-seeking,(Is It Always About Me?) it is not easily angered(Am I An Anger Hag?), it keeps no record of wrongs( Am I Forgiving?). ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.(Do I Tell The Truth/) ⁷ It always protects, (Do I?) always trusts(Do I?), always hopes(Do I?), always perseveres( Do I Consider Leaving?).

That being said. How did you do on the self exam of heart health in your marriage?

Any wrong answer signifies a weak spot in your heart and your relationship. Pray for help, admit you have a problem to your spouse. Set a goal and ask your spouse how you are doing on your weaknesses.  You will find that once you diagnose a problem, you will spend a little more time with the Great Physician. He is the mender of cold hearts in a marriage. Fix it before it becomes  contagious and you both are seeking life support for your marriage.

God bless,

Marty

Praying For The Babies 1/22/2017

Good Morning,

I awoke this morning and I thought to myself "I need to greet God right now". I thanked Him for loving me. I thanked Him for another day and for the wonderful sleep I had. I also thanked Him for a warm bed and the cup of Door County Apple Cobbler Coffee I was going to drink in a few minutes.

 

It might sound very simplistic of me. I did not at that moment have world peace on my mind, the government, finances, mission trips, or anyone else. I just needed to say thank you and commune with God before I moved on. If you are reading this and have started your day without prayer, stop reading and take time to do so. Start your prayers with what you are thankful for.

Later this morning, I need to go to work for awhile. I have several things to do, but I won't be tying up the whole day doing so. One thing I have to do is to start planning a project that needs to be done in our Hospital's  Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Since I will be at the hospital for other reasons I plan on stopping by with a note pad and hopefully my brain. I will think the process through and revise my notes and while there I plan to pray for those little babies by myself. Of course I will pray for their health, but I want to pray for their future and the world we will hand to them some day. I will pray while sitting for their future spouses. I don't know the names of these kids, but God does. I will pray for their parents to be loving, and kind. I will pray for their relationship with Jesus Christ.

I may never know the answer to these prayers. I truly doubt that I will. These babies will never know that while planning a project that they won't even know happened, someone took a moment to pray for them.  Most of them will be long home by then. But God knows. He will be there when I start planning the project. He will be there when I pray for a moment or two. He will be there long after I leave for home. I always start any project that I work on with prayer. I end the project with a prayer of thanks. When I am led to, I pray for people that pass by. I pray for those in car accidents that I see when I drive by and the police lights illuminate the area.

This is not written to brag about my prayer life, not at all. I wish it were better, It is written to remind us that God is available 24/7 for us to call on Him for others and ourselves. It only takes a moment. But in that passing moment, you spent time personally with God. Those are times to be cherished.

Jeremiah 29:13New International Version (NIV)

¹³ You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

My bed was comfortable and warm. But the two minutes with God at the start of the day was the sugar in my coffee. You don't need to see the results of your prayers to know that they have been heard. The first result of any prayer is the fact that you just spent time with God.

Have a great day! Start it out right.

Marty

Oh Politics!!!! 1/21/2017

Good Morning,

We are experiencing such weird weather here. Rain and fog instead of cold and snow. The dreariness helped me to pick my coffee flavor this morning. I am sipping on a hot mug of Door County Highlander Grog as the house warms up from a small fire in the hearth.

Well the United States inaugurated a new president. The election was quite contentious and now some are happy and some are displeased. I am a little of both. But it is not my goal to discus politics outside of Scripture. If you have read any of my writing you already know I am very conservative.

Yesterday we experienced several protests in the nation. Some were peaceful and some were not. We have laws in place to allow us to express ourselves freely. There are also laws in place to protect property and life. I have been displeased with the government in the past myself. But I value what God has to say much more and He gives us guidelines for behavior, that for me set a precedence as to how I react.  Lets take a look at a few.

1.    Ephesians 4:26New King James Version (NKJV)
 ²⁶ “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath,.

2.    Romans 13:1-7        
Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same;
for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.

3.    1 Timothy 2:1-3       

First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,        

                    

4.     Titus 3:1

Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed,

 

I wonder what could be accomplished if thousands met in prayer instead of gathering to shout or cause havoc. Maybe before our next election, time in prayer as a nation should be spent instead of arguing.

 

So as for me and our house. We respect  the rights of others to protest. But we choose to spend the time following what God says and will pray at home and attend prayer services. It has always seemed to me that God was a whole lot smarter than me, so I will trust His advice and guidelines. It's warmer inside and my coffee stays close.

 

God Bless,

 

Marty

Leaving The Freezer Door Open. 1/20/2017

Good Morning,

Here comes Friday! I really need it in a bad way! My first cup of Door County Mocha Mint Coffee was good. I think the second one will taste even better.

Our dog Gibbs has been an entertainer for us since he was a puppy. I was working on a wall in the basement on a hot day when I decided to unplug a small refrigerator for cleaning. Gibbs crawled right in to stay cool. I knew right then and there that he was a clown, but also pretty smart.

Not far away from that little refrigerator is a large upright freezer. Somehow the door was left ajar a little bit and when I noticed it I discovered that some of the meat in the door had started to thaw out a little.  To be on the safe side I cooked it all up last night and refroze some of it. We also  have great lunches packed for us today!!!  We try not to waste anything.

We put that meat in the freezer for safe keeping. Just a little mistake almost ruined some great meat and would have cost us some dollars to replace. Just a little opening in the door of about one inch made a mess.

It's the same with our lives. When we allow a little nastiness in, it often causes bigger disastrous results. It only takes a little hot pepper to ruin a bowl of cereal. It is the same way with a nasty comment or answer. On little nasty remark can start a feud of epic proportions. When we open that door we never know what will crawl through.  It's best to curb the tongue.


Proverbs 21:23- Who so keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps his soul from troubles.

Ephesians 4:29 - Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace to the hearers.

Proverbs 15:1- A soft answer turns away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

Proverbs 12:18 - There is that which speaks like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise [is] health.

Have a great weekend! Don't forget to close the door.

Marty

Hot Coffee In A Bottle 1/19/2017

Good Morning,

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

Many years ago when starting out in the work force my parents gave me a Stanley bottle to keep my coffee hot and me warm. I am 59 years old now and I still have that bottle.
They paid good money for it and I have used it for work and hunting. Even on the coldest of days I have been able to count on it  to dispense a nice hot cup of cider or coffee. I usually hunt with someone else along with the dog and myself. Many a cold night has gone by when right after loading the boat on to the truck after a duck and goose hunt I have opened my bottle and offered a cold buddy a hot cup of cider.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love you all.
Marty

I Wish You Were Better Man 1/18/2017

Good Morning,,

The alarm went off and it was rude! I forgave it for interrupting me during a dream filled with memories. So off I go to pour my cup of Door County Mocha Mint Coffee.

There is a song out there on Country Radio called "I wish you were a better man". It is performed by Little Big Town.  The song has haunting lyrics about a lady that left her man. In the song the man seems to be a guy she just can't count on. Her wish as she sits alone is that he was a better man.

Many years ago I went for breakfast with my best man, my dear friend and accountability partner who always responded when asked how he was doing with a great big "Terrific"!!!!

I can still recall our conversation after we prayed. We both came to the conclusion of what we really already knew, was that we had both "married up". We both were led to admit that we were blessed with two great wives. We did however wonder if they were short on brains for having married us.

Genesis 2:22New International Version (NIV)
²² Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man.

Both of us talked about our short comings and agreed that our wives could have done better. We also agreed that they could have done worse. Most of all, we both committed to pray for each other to grow as better men. My dear friend passed away a few years ago. I can see how his wife loves and serves the Lord. I see how his daughter loves and serves the Lord. It is proof to me that he was what he needed to be to them. He set an example for them and for me.

Men we all need to accept that we were blessed to have God create our wives and families. When our wives were conceived, God was already preparing to bring them to each of us. She is a gift and deserves all that we can be. Will we let her down? Sure we will. But with every defeat we can learn how to be a better man. That's all they ask for. Treat her like the special gift that she is. We need to be able to be counted on. We need to fill in at the gaps.

Have a TERRIFIC day!

Marty

A Candle Without A Match 1/17/2017

Good Morning,

I can hear the Door County Candy Cane Coffee brewing in the kitchen, our dog is wagging his tail next to me and I feel awake and alive. God is good.

I took this picture of one of our antique candle holders. If you look closely you can see that the wick has been lit before and at one time this candle illuminated our dining room during a storm. In order for the candle to be able to fulfill it's purpose it relies on someone with a match to ignite the flame.  There is always great potential stored within the candle to light up a room and make a difference. But without a match, the candle is just potential at rest.

Our kids have great potential within. While raising them and spending time with them we can see how they are wired and know what their potential is. This is especially true when they look to a ministry or volunteer services at church or school. Many parents see their child as the next brain surgeon or as the team leader in an Olympic event. They see gold in their future. But once the child says that they are bent on volunteering or seeking to minister in missions we tell them to "go to school, have a back up plan. You just never know." We do not trust the Lord and His call on their life.

This is a failure on our part to be the lit match that helps to illuminate the child into what God wants them to be. We snuff out the flame of their call. All that passion, desire, and potential goes to waste because we refuse to let God have His way with our child. We need to encourage, not discourage.

Matthew 19:14         
But Jesus said, "Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

Are you a spark or flame that can be used to encourage your child in a call on their life? Or are you a wet match that cannot encourage and help them to shine bright for the Lord?

Have a great day!

Marty

Fly South In Formation 1/16/17

Hebrews 10:25
not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near.



Good morning. Drinking some Door County Apple Cobbler Coffee to start the day. I heard some geese flying over the house which is not very common in January. They were definitely headed South.
I love to hunt water fowl. I have always wondered  how and why geese fly in formation. I found the following information. I think we could learn a few things from geese.
Geese Facts

Next fall when you see geese heading south for the winter... flying along in V formation...you might consider what science has discovered as to why they fly that way:

As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird immediately following. By flying in V formation the whole flock adds at least 71% greater flying range, than if each bird flew on its own.

People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going more quickly and easily because they are traveling on the thrust of one another.

When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone... and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird in front. If we have as much sense as a goose, we will stay in formation with those who are headed the same way we are.

When the head goose gets tired it rotates back in the wing and another goose flies point. It is sensible to take turns doing demanding jobs...with people or with geese flying south.

Geese honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed. What do we say when we honk from behind?

Finally...and this is important...when a goose gets sick or is wounded by gunshots, and falls out of formation, two other geese fall out with that goose and follow it down to lend help and protection. They stay with the fallen goose until it is able to fly or until it dies, and only then do they launch out on their own, or with another formation to catch up with their group.

If we have the sense of a goose, we will stand by each other like that.

Author Unknown

 They encourage one another. They function best in a group. They follow a leader well. They have compassion even if it is dangerous for them. They follow good habits. They do their part.
Now isn't that what Christians are supposed to do?

God bless,
Marty

Satan Has A Goal 1/15/17

Good Morning Dear Friends,

Happy Sunday. Rushing off to work with a cup of Door County Highlander Grog coffee in the console of my Jeep.

Have you ever wondered why Satan likes to work so hard at giving Christians grief? The answer is very simple. He knows where he is going to end up and he wants to take as many people as he can with him.

I guess people who worship Satan want to spend eternity with him. But have you seriously thought about eternity in hell with the devil? What would it be like?
Eternal Punishment
After judgment, sinners will be cast into the lake of fire to live with the devil.

• "Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. And if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire" (Rev. 20:14-15).

This punishment is for eternity, not just for a short while as some religions teach.

• "'Then He will also say to those on His left, "Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels"'" (Matt. 25:41).

Anyone who is cast into hell will be there forever. There is no escape from hell, or the punishment of hell. Maybe that's where the phrase "when hell boils over" came from.
For me, that's a scary thought I never want to experience!

Package Deal
Eternity in hell comes as a package deal. Not only are people in hell forced to live with the devil, they also live with the demons and vilest people of earth, in the dark.
Today we live in a world where Satan is restrained by God. Like in the days of Job, Satan was permitted to go just so far in persecuting him.
But imagine a place where Satan is unrestrained. And imagine that place, not only with Satan running wild, but all the wicked people of earth running wild, able to hurt others to their heart's desire, because God isn't there to stop them.

The old saying goes like this. "Misery loves company". There are people you love who don't seem to care where they end up for eternity. With what you read above shouldn't we be on our knees for our friends and family that do not have Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior?

This is serious business. This message is lost on most of the world. It is not for the faint of heart. When we fail to intercede in prayer and preach the Good News of Jesus we confuse ourselves that Hell isn't real.

Well Satan has a goal. What's yours?

Marty