Seeing Beyond The Glasses 7/31/2017

Good Morning,

Monday arrived right on time and I knew it was coming. I prepared for it though, with one great weekend prior to it's arrival.
I just filled my mug with Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee. I grabbed a handful of grapes and an orange for breakfast. I would say that once I pray, I am set for today.

I added a picture of four glasses that have held many a beverage. There once was a set of eight. It is now down to four. What makes these four special are that they once belonged to my parents and before them a great aunt of ours. I cleaned them up and filled one with fresh water and a few ice cubes. I looked at the glass and as usual my mind wandered back in time to when those glasses were used at the dinner table by those I love, but are gone now. The glasses aren't important, but those who used them or will use them now are what is important.

I drank some of the refreshing water and then paused for a moment to thank God for everyone who I had just remembered. I for one feel that I was blessed with a wonderful family past and present. I thanked God for the memories and the upbringing I had. I asked God to bless those who are with me now.

Psalm 9:1New International Version (NIV).

¹ I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart;    I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.

I think that all too often we just think that we were planted into a family. God knew which family we would be born into and what impact they would have on us. I forget to thank Him for knowing who and what I would need in my life to become the me that I am. What are you thankful for? Have you thanked God?

Marty

When God Calls, It's the Right Time 7/30/2017

Good Morning,

I pray that as you read this, you find peace in your heart today and joy from heaven. My mug was just filled with some very hot some Sunrise In Door County Coffee. It is a beautiful morning to be outside on the patio to write and reflect.

I saw God at work over the last few weeks and He called on two men to answer His call. One man will pack up him and his family and move on to serve in another church in another state. This is bittersweet for me. I rejoice when God calls and people are obedient to the call, and I expected nothing less from this dear friend. God has a plan and this man and his family are part of it. What makes this bitter is that although we will keep in touch, he won't be there in our lives and be able to share in the ministry we have enjoyed together. He will pray for us and we will pray for him, but it won't be the same. But I am so proud of him for saying yes to the call of God.

Isaiah 41:9-12New International Version (NIV)

⁹ I took you from the ends of the earth,
    from its farthest corners I called you.
I said, ‘You are my servant’;
    I have chosen you and have not rejected you.
¹⁰ So do not fear, for I am with you;
    do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

¹¹ “All who rage against you
    will surely be ashamed and disgraced;
those who oppose you
    will be as nothing and perish.
¹² Though you search for your enemies,
    you will not find them.
Those who wage war against you
    will be as nothing at all.

The other man I am speaking of is younger and received a call that I have been praying for. This young fella received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior a few years ago, but never really followed up. His spiritual growth was small, if any. But yesterday, he answered God's call to go forward and be baptized by immersion, following in the steps of Jesus. I know his parents are relieved and pleased. I know that when Rene and I heard about it we both rejoiced. But most of all God is pleased that this young man answered the call from Him on his own and was obedient to the call.

Friends, answering God when He calls on you is not always convenient to us. It at times requires a leap of faith and at times a crisis of faith. For one of these it was knowing that God was calling. He is new to these things. There is always peer pressure for young and old alike. Do I? Should I? Then there is the logistical crisis of faith. Uproot the kids? Sell the home? Pack all of our stuff and move? Minister to new people?

When we answer God's call and are obedient to Him, we are taking a step of faith and He is there to calm fears, provide housing, and walk with us into the water, walk us into a new church and guide our every step.

We should not be afraid to answer when God calls. He never leaves us nor forsakes us. Is God calling on you today to step up or step out? What will your answer be?

Marty

I Believe I Am Ok 7/29/2017

Good Morning,

Saturday showed up and I have to go to work for a short time. My travel mug is filled with Door County Dublin's Delight Coffee, my heart filled with peace, and a prayer is on my lips.

I for one believe, won't change my mind, and will stand on my beliefs. Some say that it makes me "Old Fashioned". Well that would be one of the nicest things I was called this week. Here is what I believe.

People who repent their sins will be forgiven
People are "saved" and forgiven if they confess their sins and confess their belief in the resurrection of Jesus. As explained in Romans 10:9-10 (English-NIV), "That if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved."
 Anyone can have salvation
All people may receive salvation in the name of Jesus Christ. In Romans 10:12 (English-NIV), for example, it says: "For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile - the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him…"
John 3:16 (NIV): "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

God created all that is seen and unseen
Christians believe that God is the creator of all people, the world, the universe, and everything seen and unseen. This is based on various Bible passages, including the Bible's book of Genesis.

 Jesus is the Son of God and is One with God
Christians believe that Jesus is the Son of God, that He is one with God, and that He was sent here for our salvation. In John 10:30 (English-NIV), the Apostle John quotes Jesus as saying, "I and the Father are one."

I will post some more Christian Apologetics tomorrow. Here comes a series!

God bless,

Marty

Cookie Rejects 7/28/2017

Good Morning.

This morning I am starting the day with a hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee.

I grew up on the South Side of Milwaukee Wisconsin and lived within walking distance of Milwaukee County Stadium. Milwaukee is home to the Major League Baseball team named the Brewers. Back to the walking distance. Today most parents would never let their kids walk to the stadium. That would be exercise. We grew up in different times and life was considered precious. As kids, we could go to different places on our own. We respected the police and others. We were safe.

We would work and save up a couple dollars to go and sit in the bleachers and drink an RC Cola.
On the way to the Stadium we would walk to the factory that made cookies and candy bars We could go in and buy the rejects for almost nothing. They were so good and a real treat for us. As kids we did not have a lot of money. So one candy bar would be split with a pocket knife 4 ways. Yes we had pocket knives and none of us turned out to be mass murderers. They never even searched us at the stadium.  Times have changed. But one thing should never change. We learned to share even if one of the other kids could not pitch in the same amount. They received the same share. We all knew that when they had the chance and we were down that they would throw in an extra nickel for us. We shared. One of the guys that we hung with, now donates all of his income to special needs kids. It all started at home where we were all taught to share with each other and not hold back the best.

Hebrews 13:16                     
Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.           

1 Timothy 6:18                     

They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share,             

Luke 3:11    

And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.”

Share, it's good for the heart.

God bless,
Marty

Giving A Blessing 7/27/2017

Good Morning,

Let me say this. I believe that Thursday is just here to warm us up for Friday and I am glad that it is here. I will be breaking in some new shoes today so a little extra Door County Blackberry Shortcake Coffee is in order. Two Tylenol for the sore feet later are packed with my lunch. Some prayer and time with all of you and I am ready for the day.

I believe that those who are older or are in a position to pray a blessing on others should do so and prayer should be sought by the receiver of the blessing.

Numbers 6:24-26New International Version (NIV)

²⁴ “‘“The Lord bless you
    and keep you;
²⁵ the Lord make his face shine on you
    and be gracious to you;
²⁶ the Lord turn his face toward you
    and give you peace.”

 

We often minimize a real blessing to someone by just saying "God Bless". Now that is a very nice statement compared to some of the good wish toasts I have heard in my lifetime.

 

But when we truly want to bless the life of others, set them on a path, or ordain the choice they have made, we become fully aware that only God can truly bless them. But in a sincere prayer of blessing we become intimate in the blessing by forgetting ourselves as the one bestowing the blessing and coming before God to ask for Him to bless the other person. We ask humbly that God bless others as we cannot. He knows what is best for them and how to bless them. When we ask God to keep them, we are asking for their protection and we are only thinking about them at this time. We ask God to protect them and for Him to build around them his safekeeping, the blood of Jesus and the Holy Spirit to be over them and keep them.

Now imagine the face of God shining on us, in return our faces would shine and reflect His glory. Is there any other place you could wish someone to be? That alone allows for peace which surpasses all understanding. Only God can show the person the way to follow His will and live with God facing them. So we are asking God for direction to be shared with the blessing recipient.

I will be praying a blessing upon someone this weekend, someone I love, someone who deserves to be blessed. But what I am really doing is forgetting myself and intimately asking our Heavenly Father to do what I can't. This expression of love, is a reminder that only God blesses. We just ask for the blessing. He bestows it.

Have you prayed to really bless others? Have you prayed a prayer of blessing on your children?

Food for thought.

Marty

Take Your Iron Tablets 7/26/2017

Good Morning,

Door County Cinnamon Sugar Biscotti Coffee is decorating the inside of my cup and teasing my taste buds today. Now, few cherries for breakfast, some prayer and then it is time to write. Maybe a little more than a few cherries.

At one time in my life I was told by a physician that I needed to take an iron supplement. I was one tired and worn out high school sophomore.  He had diagnosed me as being anemic. He said my blood just needed a push. It just wasn't hitting on all cylinders.

Now and then God realizes that our spiritual life needs some iron infused into it. God allows trials or problems to come into lives to either correct us or to make us a little stronger. I will be the first to admit that my prayer time increases when I am faced with a trial or issue. I tend to read my Bible more when I am jammed up. These things are how God infuses our lives with spiritual iron from above. He knows what we need and when we need it.

James 1:2-4New King James Version (NKJV)
² My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, ³ knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. ⁴ But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

To be honest ,I think I am on a double dose of spiritual iron pills these days. But whatever doesn't kill you, makes you stronger. In God I trust.

Have a blessed day, and don't forget your iron pills.

Marty

A Man Who Walks With God Always.... 7/25/2017

Good Morning,
Hard at it already on a Tuesday and I feel like my Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee is more of a celebration than a morning beverage. I am celebrating the homecoming of a loved one today. Glad to be here.

I have heard men say that they are looking for direction in life. Roy Lessin wrote, "A man who walks with God is always moving in the right direction" There is no doubt in my mind that God is always the One who leads in the dance of life. It's when we try to lead outside of His will that we end up stumbling over our own feet.

We always need to seek the will of God and then walk with Him in it. A person who does this, is always headed in the right direction, on a well illuminated path. God leads us correctly because His name is at stake if He doesn't.

Psalm 23New International Version (NIV)

¹ The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
²     He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
³     he refreshes my soul.He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
⁴ Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

⁵ You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
⁶ Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever

I never worry when I am on God's path. I do however worry when I get on a path that has too much of my ideas on it. When I find myself trying to convince God that my idea should be His I am in deep trouble. Trouble that needs to be avoided. If we say "The Lord is my Shepherd we should line up and follow. A sheep that gets into the leadership role can lead others astray. A smart person knows when they are on God's right path and sticks with it.

 

Marty

Walking With A Purpose 7/24/2017

Good Morning,

Monday came and I am not ready for it. I need to add one more day to this weekend and then sleep for a few hours. But that's not going to happen. I awoke to Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee brewing in the kitchen. Let's fill the cup and write.

James 1:5-6New International Version (NIV)
⁵ If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. ⁶ But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

I am afraid that I am watching a friend go down the wrong path in life and he just can't seem to see the light. I am afraid my friend is not walking with the purpose of following God.  He can't see the Light because it is contrary to His Own Thoughts!

Last Saturday Rene walked in a charity event to help a cancer patient. The course was well laid out, she knew why she was there, and there were explicit instructions given. She started the walk,  and in the end, finished right where she was supposed to. This all happened because she sought direction, obeyed the directions, and finished her assigned goal.

We need to do the same thing with God. We pray for guidance, receive the answer, and then go our own way, not His. This is nonsense.  We need to seek guidance and then be obedient to the direction. We can't launch into something and hope God blesses it. We need to seek out His plan. It is already blessed.. All too often we start out before seeking God and then ask Him to bless our venture.

God gives directions when asked to do so. The idea to follow the directions is often contrary to what we think God should be telling us to do. But we must always follow Scripture  and God's leading in our lives and stay with it no matter what.

Long day today. But, know this, you are loved.

Marty

Just A Little Love Goes A Long Way 7/23/2017

Good Morning,

The weather here is foggy and overcast with clouds. It seems as if this day will be dreary at best. I am praying for the sun to break through. So I think my choice of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee is very appropriate.

1 John 3:18New International Version (NIV)
¹⁸ Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

Yesterday our church held a run and walk to support a teenager and her family. The teen has been battling cancer for quite some time. Many people worked long hours to plan and then hold the event. Others chose to walk or run to raise money to assist with some of the medical bills. Rene and I were there and we witnessed the love in action.

Later last evening after the Saturday night church service our Men's Ministry headed to the shore of Lake Michigan with a large group of people to watch the fireworks display sponsored by the local Italian Community Festival. This is an annual thing and the men and their wives as well as those who decided to join in, set up tables with an array of pot luck type dishes. The men started the grills and pretty soon we were dining on some very tasty chili dogs as well as the heavenly buffet.

While at this small park located by the pier, we met a lady who just wanted to talk and she was invited to sit and dine with us. She especially liked chatting with one of the gals in our group. Eventually she expressed the need for prayer and that too was accommodated. We like to pray. She watched the fireworks and then left, but was not allowed to leave until she was gifted with some bakery. We also like baked goods! Rene and I witnessed love in action again.

As we were cleaning up, a young family with a brood of kids showed up and they were in awe of what was still left on the tables. Young eyes surveyed the goodies there and it wasn't too long before the leftovers were being packed up and given to this large family. Rene pointed to our truck and motioned for me to retrieve a large tub of red licorice which I had already stowed away. I winced a little because I love licorice. She in return touched my belly and reminded me that I really did not need the licorice, my belly is already more than abundant. The family left and they were blessed with a pile of food, prayer and licorice. Once again Rene and I witnessed love in action.

I have come to expect these types of things from the members of our church. They see a need and they always react to it in love and respect for God's purpose that He has laid before them.

As we returned home, Rene and I discussed the day and stated to each other how good the food was, how great the run/ walk was administrated as well as attended, and how beautiful the fireworks were.  Then we said  "God sure was at work today". He really put on a display of love through others. We finished our ride home, content and happy. Why were we happy? We were blessed to see God at work and witness His desire to allow some great people join in. We witnessed their response.  We were the blessed ones. We saw love in action. By the way, I have more licorice stored in the pantry!

Love to all,

Marty

A Drink Of Da Coffee. 7/22/2017

Good Morning,

This morning started early and the day will run long into the night. I am looking forward to a great weekend with friends and family. Door County Blackberry Shortcake Coffee will soon be swirling in my mug.

A long time ago when our grandson was a toddler he approached me one morning while we were visiting the family. He said to me "Are You Going to have a drink of da coffee Papa? Mom made that for you." I can hardly look at my coffee cup without hearing those words in my mind. He is much older now and we haven't seen him since last December and it looks like it won't be until this coming December when we will see him again.

I remember a lot of that day and I cherish that phrase because I know that cup of coffee came from the heart of our daughter. Times were tough for her but she made sure that her old man had a cup of coffee. And that little guy was going to make sure I drank it. They are doing very well these days and I look forward to seeing them again in December. But I will always remember the cup of coffee that came from the heart.

Ecclesiastes 11English Standard Version (ESV)

11 Cast your bread upon the waters,
    for you will find it after many days.
² Give a portion to seven, or even to eight,
    for you know not what disaster may happen on earth.

When you give, do you give from the heart? Do you sow without expecting a return, just trusting God?

Marty

 

The Measure Of A Man 7/21/2017

Good Morning,

Friday arrived right on time just like I knew it would. I chose to make a big pot of Door County Hazelnut Crème Coffee to hold me over throughout the day. I pray your morning is blessed from above. Let's get this one started.

Paul D Moody wrote "The measure of a man is not the number of his servants, but the number of people whom he serves"

Mark 10:45New International Version (NIV)
⁴⁵ For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

I believe a real man is a servant to many. This comes in different forms for a man. We serve those we work for, and work with. We should give an excellent example of service to our families and neighbors.  Jesus was the perfect example of a true servant. His goal was to serve others at all cost, including laying His life down, enduring pain and burial for all of us.

Too many men lord over their families, and those who may report to them. This is not being a leader and is a poor example of Godly living. In order to lead, people must follow, and when they see a leader setting the example of serving others they are more likely to follow.

Think this one through for today. Have you come to be served or to serve?

Marty

Just A Chance Meeting 7/20/2017

Good Morning,

Wow where has July gone to? I am starting this day with a big cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee a hand full of grapes and one small Clementine orange. What a nice way to start a day.

Last night I attended a meeting at church and before I headed for home I checked my telephone for messages. I had received one from my Dear Friend Steve. He is finishing out his time in a sporting goods store. The store is going out of business and I had asked him to let me know when one item was finally marked down to it's rock bottom price. The message he sent  let me know that rock bottom arrived. I stopped by the store to make the sale and when I walked in it felt like I was attending a wake. What used to be a very busy store was now a mess of stuff they are still trying to sell before the door closes. The workers are mourning the loss of their jobs and even though I was going to spend some money there it was not going to save their jobs. I actually felt like a crow picking over a dead carcass on the road. My heart went out to those who would be without a job soon. I said a silent prayer for them.

I never believe that things just happen. I believe that every appointment is a divine meeting. While completing my sale a young lady waked over and Steve introduced me to the store manager. You could see the numbness in her eyes as she kept surveying the store and I could tell that this job loss was really knocking her for a loop. We chatted and I stated my sorrow for their bad experience. The Holy Spirit led me to ask this mother of two if it would be ok if I prayed for her right there in the store. She responded with a wholehearted yes. I prayed for God's direction, peace and provisions for her life. I knew right then and there that this was a God appointment.

I decided many years ago that when I know someone is in need of prayer now, there is no time like the present to pray. It would have been completely wrong to say "I will be praying for you" and then leave and maybe remember to pray for her and the others. Just plain wrong anyway you look at it. I don't know if I will ever see her again or not. But for that short moment she knew someone cared and it wasn't just me. God joined us for that time.

Matthew 18:20New International Version (NIV)
²⁰ For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

God used this bad situation to let this little lady know through a stranger that she is loved .

Jeremiah 29:11New International Version (NIV)

¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Never be in too much of a hurry and miss a God appointment.

Marty

What Can Be Done If We Work! 7/19/2017

Good Morning,

I made a pot of Door County German Chocolate Coffee for this morning's brew. Rene baked some pumpkin bread last night and I now have a great breakfast. Blessed to be married!

Isaiah 41:15 New International Version (NIV)

¹⁵ “See, I will make you into a threshing sledge,
    new and sharp, with many teeth.
You will thresh the mountains and crush them,
    and reduce the hills to chaff.

 

Someone once wrote  "A turning lathe that has sharp knives produces the finest work."  A bar of steel needs to be worked and annealed to become a piece of metal that can be shaped and honed into a sharp knife. No amount of wishing or dreaming will turn the lump of metal into a knife. A lathe at rest will never produce anything, no matter how sharp the knives are.

 

 

We each possess a skill or two that unless used is worthless. The more we use our skills the sharper they become and the better we are able to use them. Our skill lathe should always be turning for several reasons.

 

1, We can use our skills to support us and our families. We need to eat and we should work.

2. Some of our skills can be used to help others who do not possess our skillset.

3. Using our skills to help others exalts Jesus Christ.

4. Not using our skills often works to erode the skills we have been given to use.

 

 Proverbs 10:4New International Version (NIV)

⁴ Lazy hands make for poverty,
    but diligent hands bring wealth.

 

 Is your lathe turning? Are you ready to use your skills for good?

Go ahead and take your given gifts and use them. You are loved more than you know.

Marty

 

The Author And The Finisher 7/18/17

Good Morning,

I can smell the Door County Blackberry Shortcake Coffee brewing in the kitchen and I can say that the aroma is surprisingly strong. I can't wait foe the first cup.

I am keeping this rather simple today. In a small blast of Scripture I want to let you know that a corporate way you were all prayed for today and that you are loved. I pray for all those who will read this daily devotional. Even on my best day I cannot out write God's Word. It is more than sufficient to express how I feel at any given moment in time.

Philippians 1:1-11New King James Version (NKJV)

1 Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ,

To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:
² Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
³ I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, ⁴ always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, ⁵ for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, ⁶ being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; ⁷ just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace. ⁸ For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ.
⁹ And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, ¹⁰ that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, ¹¹ being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God

So today my friends soak in this passage, Take it word for word. Let your love abound and set your eyes upon Jesus, our Author and Finisher Of Our Faith.

God Bless,

Marty

Ode To The Outhouse 7/17/2017

Good Morning,

How many cups of Door County Cherry Crème Coffee will it take to warm me up this morning? For some reason I have a chill that I cannot shake. Here's to warming up.

Yesterday Rene and I went to shore of Lake Michigan with four close friends o watch the Milwaukee Air Show. We went to a quaint little park that we have frequented before. The highlight of the day besides the feast the six of us put on for each other was to see the US Navy Blue Angels perform their precision flying show.

I am not sure that the county planned on that many people showing up to the park, There were more people then I have ever seen down there. The restrooms are portable potty toilets. It wasn't very long before the toilets were filled to capacity. Everyone needed to use the porta potty. I am a grown man and even for me the use of the facility was to say the least a nasty experience. One certainly did not want any of that sludge to spill on to you and the experience of just being in there was enough to scar you for life. But we all survived to come home and shower off the day. We all avoided those portable toilets like they had the plague. It was a number one goal!

Jeremiah 2:22New International Version (NIV)

²² Although you wash yourself with soap
    and use an abundance of cleansing powder,
    the stain of your guilt is still before me,”
declares the Sovereign Lord

Wouldn't it be nice though if we avoided other things that are wrong or not good for us, like we avoid an overfilled outhouse? Just a little bit of that stuff splashing on me or worse yet my wallet falling in would have ruined my whole day. But do we avoid a little gossip the same way? Do we avoid telling a lie the same way. Those things tarnish us with the stain of sin. Do we try our best to not fall into the trap of easy to find sins?

Human waste belongs in the porta potty. All sin should belong there also and needs to be avoided at all cost. Just saying!

Marty

Going With The Flow 7/16/2017

Good Morning,

This day has begun with our dog Gibbs sitting on my feet while I write and a cup of Door County Dublin's Delight Coffee next to me. If this were a January morning the "dog slippers" would seem normal. Sometimes I just can't figure this dog out.

Philippians 2:1-5New International Version (NIV)

2 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, ² then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. ³ Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, ⁴ not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

⁵ In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

That's the point of the day. Gibbs feels the need to be a little closer than usual today and he either believes I need him this close or he just wants to warm up my feet. I have been away a lot the last few days and haven't spent much time with Rene or Gibbs. Who knows what his thoughts are or what he feels he needs or is delivering, but he is causing no harm. Instead of chasing him off of my feet, I choose to go with the flow.

Friends, not everything always has to go as planned or perform as what we determine is normal. There are times when we just need to overlook some things. Anything that is not causing harm or potential hurt can be overlooked. I listened to a few of my friends try to decide where they wanted to go out to eat. After ten minutes of all of them complaining about each others suggestions I was late for the door. They had extended an invitation to Rene and me to accompany them. They did asked where we would like to go and my statement must have sounded like I just announced that I had leprosy. They stared at me for a moment and then went on to lobby with each other as to where they should go. All I said was "Just pick a place and we are good to go". That obviously was the wrong answer. They didn't even notice that Rene and I excused ourselves when we left saying "some other time". They were too wrapped up in having it "their way". We were hungry and would go anywhere. What we heard later was that they ended up divided and went to two different places. Now that ruined a great time of fellowship for them.

It would have been better for those folks to give up their egos and say " OK you pick and we will go. Next time we can try the other place". Going with the flow would have done no harm and they would have had a nicer evening.

I watched two little girls in our neighborhood set up a water and Kool Aide stand on a hot day. These two little entrepreneurs were trying to earn some money. I noticed their sign and they had spelled water incorrectly. Their version of H2o was "Watter" . One of my neighbors actually was so bothered by it that he walked over to correct their spelling and never purchased anything. He came back all self satisfied saying, " I corrected them on their spelling". I thought to myself "really? Maybe it was a sales gimmick, let it go!

Most of what we get boiled up over just isn't worth the blood pressure increase. We need to be more agreeable and go with the flow. Not every little thing needs to be corrected.

So today, if your family or friends want burger or a ham sandwich for dinner and you would prefer baked chicken, just eat a burger or add some mustard to your ham. Go with the flow. Be a team player.  The day will turn out just fine without you driving all the choices.


Marty,

Nowhere To HIde 7/15/2016

Good Morning,

How blessed I am to be drinking some Door County Cinnamon Sugar Biscotti Coffee and eating a warm slice of banana bread, fresh from the oven today.

I was up and out of bed really early this morning and it just seemed that the oven was calling me to fill it with something that would benefit me and the whole house with a beautiful aroma. But then, I have a vivid imagination.

I often share my personal experiences on my daily blog, or "brain ramble scramble" as some have called it. So today will be like no other day. It seems that God has not only given me life, but a daily adventure to live and love.

So here we go. There are times in this adventure, when it just seems that the quest for seeing the adventure through becomes difficult. As a child I was not one to hide under the bed when afraid or discouraged. But I would often retreat to our basement to sit in the dark and avoid life's messes and pretend that the world did not exist for a little while. I pretty much do the same thing now. I retreat upstairs instead, to my den, surrounded by books, hunting equipment, some trophies and plenty of pictures. I am looking at one photo right now of my grandson and daughter. I find pleasure in these retreats. There is a difference now, compared to when I was a little boy hiding in the basement. Back then the basement. although dark and quiet, was very lonely, I did not have the relationship with God back then that I have now. I felt that I could even hide from Him and that He really did not care or even know I was around.

Later in my life I found Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. I now have a relationship with the Triune God and the Holy Spirit now illuminates the Bible and God speaks through His word to me. Back in 1983 I was feeling way down and I was led to a passage in Scripture that reassured me that I was never alone. I go to it when it seems that life has just dealt me a blow that has staggered me, or when the adventure is a little frightening. I retreat to my den and dig out my survival passage of love, hope, and reassurance. I have realized that there is nowhere I can go to hide from God and no amount of desperation can separate us from Him .

Psalm 139New King James Version (NKJV)

God’s Perfect Knowledge of Man

For the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.

139 O Lord, You have searched me and known me.
² You know my sitting down and my rising up;
You understand my thought afar off.
³ You comprehend my path and my lying down,
And are acquainted with all my ways.
⁴ For there is not a word on my tongue,
But behold, O Lord, You know it altogether.
⁵ You have hedged me behind and before,
And laid Your hand upon me.
⁶ Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is high, I cannot attain it.

⁷ Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?
⁸ If I ascend into heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.
⁹ If I take the wings of the morning,
And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
¹⁰ Even there Your hand shall lead me,
And Your right hand shall hold me.
¹¹ If I say, “Surely the darkness shall fall^[a] on me,”
Even the night shall be light about me;
¹² Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You,
But the night shines as the day;
The darkness and the light are both alike to You.

¹³ For You formed my inward parts;
You covered me in my mother’s womb.
¹⁴ I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;^[b]
Marvelous are Your works,
And that my soul knows very well.
¹⁵ My frame was not hidden from You,
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
¹⁶ Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed.
And in Your book they all were written,
The days fashioned for me,
When as yet there were none of them.

¹⁷ How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How great is the sum of them!
¹⁸ If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand;
When I awake, I am still with You.

¹⁹ Oh, that You would slay the wicked, O God!
Depart from me, therefore, you bloodthirsty men.
²⁰ For they speak against You wickedly;
Your enemies take Your name in vain.^[c]
21 Do I not hate them, O Lord, who hate You?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against You?
²² I hate them with perfect hatred;
I count them my enemies.

²³ Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me, and know my anxieties;
²⁴ And see if there is any wicked way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting.

My friends, if you are in a place of retreat and despair, save this and read it as needed. Consider it a prescription for your health and wellness. I just read it again and the world seems to be a little sunnier now.

Have a blessed day. You are loved/

Marty

Fighting The Urge 7/14/2017

Good Morning,

My mug is filled with Door County Dublin's Delight Coffee and my mind is filled with Friday on the horizon. TGIF all the way.

We all have these things we call urges. Like "I am fighting off the urge to sleep in on Saturday when I know fully well that I have a lot of work to do. Or I have an urge to eat three scoops of frozen custard instead of two. Then, who can eat just two hot dogs?" But are more than two the right thing for me to do? Not according to my doctor.

The word urge can be and should be translated as "temptation". When we feel the urge to go outside of what we know to be right and good for us it is a temptation and all temptation comes from the Dark Side known as Satan. For me to sleep in and avoid work that needs to be done is the temptation to be lazy. If I give in to the urge or temptation knowing that for me it is fully wrong, I have given into sin. Most people don't like the word sin, they prefer not to think of their "slip ups" as the S word. We would do well not to sugar coat giving into temptation or even calling it anything but what it is. Small slip ups that are disguised for what they really are soon enable us to justify bigger things.

Addictions to pornography often start this way. Just a little look for a little while often leads to devastating consequences when the desires become more ravenous.

But as with many things the Bible has an answer for us. With all temptations there is a way out. One of those ways is to learn to say no. That is the first step. The second step is to memorize Scripture so that we are equipped to fight off temptation, just as Jesus did.

Step one  NO
Step two. Memorize Scripture  Psalm 119:11New International Version (NIV)

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

There is always a way out of any temptation, if we are willing to seek it out. God provides the way out.

1 Corinthians 10:13New International Version (NIV)
¹³ No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

Smile it's Friday and you are loved.

Marty
 

 

Hot Weather, Cool Water 7/13/2017

Good Morning,

My mug is holding some Door County Blackberry Shortcake Coffee, our dog is next to me, it must be time to write.

Last night in our town the weather was hot and humid. It's here and a lot of people enjoy it. I for one am a fall season kind of guy with an affection for light snow.

I had some chores to perform last night and while doing the work I soon worked up a heavy sweat and a horrendous thirst. I knew a big glass of sweet peach tea with a dozen ice cubes would be waiting for me when I came inside for the night.
My wife took one look at me and said "one glass of tea and then off to the shower". I felt like a five year old boy being chased to the tub and then told to go to bed. I replied "Yes Mother" and took off for a shower.

My body welcomed the shower and before too long I found myself turning the water temperature to cold. That cold water was so refreshing and it cooled my body down. I felt myself begin to relax and my brain was ready to sit down with some more tea and read my Bible. I always like to read and study for a half an hour to an hour every night. But I wasn't ready for it earlier. I needed to clean up, clear my head and then read and consult with God. Then He could rain on me.

Deuteronomy 32:2
"Let my teaching drop as the rain, My speech distill as the dew, As the droplets on the fresh grass And as the showers on the herb

So what is my goal in writing today. Time spent with God is truly important. Being ready to devote the time is equally important. I needed to clean up, stop working  and cool down. The time spent wasn't rushed to completion. It was done when it was done. As much as my body needed a shower I also needed God to shower me with wisdom, love, affection and assurance. His Word is like a refreshing rain on a hot day. Are you overheated today with stress or cares? Cool off, slow down and let God rain on you. Open your Bible and fellowship with Him.

Marty

Fruit On The Table 7/12/2017

Good Morning,

May this day begin for you with prayer and time spent reading your Bible. My mug of Door County In Keepers Blend Coffee joined me as I prayed and studied. Great way to start a day!

I have been told and actually know that in order to be healthy a good diet of fruit, dairy, vegetables and nuts with some meat is the best way to go. As for me I do pretty well with the nuts in my diet and the meat, but to be honest I can pass on a lot of the fruits that are offered. I have my favorites and apples rank number one. I like them dried just the same way that I like to eat cherries. But to sit down and eat a bowl filled with a variety of fruits just doesn't work for me. Someone always ruins a good bowl of fruit with an apricot or melon.

Galatians 5:22-23New International Version (NIV)
²² But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

But on the other hand, God desires for us to have a Spiritual Bowl of fruit daily. He expects us to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. In order to do that we have to admit that we are spiritual and must be in tune to the Holy Spirit. Sin will keep us from living to our full spiritual potential. It is hard to listen to the Holy Spirit when our hearts are full of the world's garbage.

If we are to experience the fruit of the Spirit we must walk in it. This means we are to be obedient to the laws of God and obedient to any call from God on our lives. Disobedience leaves us with wormed fruit. We cannot experience the fruit of the Spirit if we are in sin and practicing disobedience.

Galatians 5:24-26New King James Version (NKJV)
²⁴ And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. ²⁵ If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

When we walk in the flesh instead of the Spirit we leave the stench of rottenness wherever we are. Our life is not one of peace, love, joy, or kindness. We quit easily and we lack self control.

What's on your table today? Are you experiencing a full bowl of the Holy Spirit? Or are you dining on wanna be fruit? Imitation at best? Or are you dining on the Fruit Of The Spirit?

Walk away from the buffet the world has for you and engage with the Holy Spirit. He is there 24/7. He desires for you to walk with Him and dine on righteousness.

Have a great day!

Marty

Composure Is Power? 7/11/2017

Good Morning,

I am wide awake today and my plate of life is a full one. It should run a little late into the evening. So a little extra Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee this morning won't hurt a thing.

Romans 12:17-21New International Version (NIV)
¹⁷ Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. ¹⁸ If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. ¹⁹ Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”^[says the Lord. ²⁰ On the contrary:

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
    if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

²¹ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

 

There are days, encounters, meetings, family dinners or possible seasons when to be still actually demands more immense strength than to act does. Composure is known to be the highest evidence of strength. I have often said that I believed the biggest temptation Jesus endured were the insults hurled at Him while He was on the cross. He was insulted and mocked which in reality, they were mocking God the Father. This took great restraint to be silent and not come down off of the cross and open up a whole lot of disaster on those vile mouths. Jesus showed great restraint when dealing with the village idiots.

You and I are all stronger than we look, and it takes great restraint to deal with some people now and then. We show great strength when we choose silence over war, and when we do not seek revenge. Someone will be the "village idiot" you encounter today. You can show strength by not allowing them to get under your skin. Pray for them, and let God deal with them. You will know when they are not teachable and are just argumentative. Don't let evil convince you to deliver evil. Show great strength and the power of the Holy Spirit within you to resist setting down your cross and whooping some butt. You can do it.

Philippians 4:13New International Version (NIV)
¹³ I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

Be the "power house" God intends you to be. Shut down the cannons fired at you with composure.

Marty