School Or No School 7/31/2020

Good Morning,

I am saying goodbye to July today with a big cup of Door County Mistletoe Mocha. Friday came and it was right on time.

Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. I will counsel you with my eye upon you.

The last day of July will be in my rear view mirror today. 31 days have gone by and now August is staring us in the face. It will be an August like never before. Covid 19 will be forcing parents to choose to either send their children to school, home school them or find some other alternative for the children to learn. This has many people in a quandary as to what they should do. I don't envy their job to make the best decision for their own situation. In some instances they will not have a choice as some schools are just plain closed for now. What a choice to have to make.

I am glad that choice isn't staring me in the face. I won't even tell people what I think they should do or not do. I will say this though. When I am faced with serious situations like these I go back to what has worked for me the best. I know God loves me and He is the Alpha and Omega. So I stop, pray and listen. I stay solid in my Bible reading and trust in God to tell me what to do.

Friends, there are many tough situations around the world. Before you go down a path of not knowing what to do. Take some time to ask God in prayer and see what is best for you and your family.

I am praying for all of you. Love you much.

Marty

A Morning Surprise 7/30/2020

Good Morning,

Our two dogs Gibbs and Leo beat the alarm clock to the job of waking me up this morning. They let me know that they were ready to eat and ready to run well before dawn. So this hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee sitting next to me is going to work some overtime today.

John 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, bears much fruit: for without me you can do nothing. 

Last year my wife Rene and I purchased a lavender Hibiscus plant/bush at one of the local plant emporiums. The clerk told us that this type of plant would survive the Wisconsin winters and make a comeback in the spring. So always being those who would live on the edge a little, we brought this scrappy looking twig home. We planted it and watered it. It really showed no signs of life for a couple weeks and I was just about ready to concede that we purchased a dud when one morning I saw a green chute coming off of the stem. Very soon a lot of greenery was covering the twig and it was turning into a bush. Before long buds formed, and a couple weeks later we had the most beautiful purple flowers decorating our garden.

Then fall arrived and the flowers were gone. It was time to trim the bush per the directions and let it rest for the winter. Winter was cold and at times harsh, and you couldn't even see the Hibiscus beneath the snow. Spring arrived and the once green bush looked like aged driftwood. Rene and I looked at it and had to resist pulling it out. There seemed to be no life at all.

When the plant emporium opened in May and we started to purchase plants once again for the yard, I asked the same clerk if we should pull that deadwood out of the garden. We were ready to purchase a new bush because last year's plant was that spectacular. She told us two things. They weren't selling that style anymore. It was was not very popular and there was a good chance it would not come back. Although, she told us to wait until mid June before pulling the plant from the garden. We watered it and gave it some plant food.  I watched it almost daily for signs of life.  I didn't see any life revival happening so I dedicated some time on the weekend for plant removal. But then one morning just before D-Day, Rene came in and said that new chutes had sprung from the ground and we should not pull the plant out.  I went outside and sure enough there were some tender sprouts coming up.  We nurtured them along and before we knew it the bush came to life and was growing quickly with plenty of buds forming at the ends of the branches. I have been waiting for the first bud to open and this morning was it!  I drank my first cup of coffee in the driveway looking at the surprise God had given to us.

I pondered the thoughts of how I almost gave up on the twig two times. Once last summer and then again this year. Then I asked myself "how many people who read this might be in relationships with friends or family, especially marriages where there seems to be no life. How many just want to give up?"

Friends like the harsh winter covered and smothered what once was beautiful, life can do the same to our precious relationships. But with the gardening of the heart, new life can be restored. Sometimes the weeds of hurt and pain need to be pulled from the soil of our heart. That might start with forgiving each other. Then the soil might need to be nurtured with food. I would say that the food for the garden of our hearts is prayer, Scripture reading, and time spent with the Heavenly Gardener. God tends to cultivate the soil of the heart and protects us from the weeds that would grow and choke the beauty out of relationships. But we have to be willing to take these steps and like Rene did last winter she pruned the dead growth down to make room for the new. God might need to cut us back a little and remove the things that cause us not to grow.

So before you pull things from the garden of your life, give them some time at the hands of God and see what He can do to infuse new life to barren hearts.

Marty

Father Knows Best 7/29/2020

Good Morning,

My day just started and the pace will be fast and furious. Prayer's said and a cup of Door County Raspberry Almond Coffee was just poured and it is time to write.

James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.

Back in the late 50's and into the early 60's there was a television show named "Father Knows Best" It was about the Anderson family, two parents and three children. Mr. Anderson's character was that of a softened, thoughtful father who offered sage advice whenever one or more of his children had a problem.

Mr. Anderson seemed to always have the right answer to the family dilemma. He was always there for his wife and kids.

Friends our Heavenly Father also knows what is best for us. Very often He shows us the way through prayer and Scripture. But all too often we go to God inquiring as to what to do with a problem after we have been everywhere else and consulted anyone and everyone. God becomes our last resort. I would say this, when God becomes that last resort, He really is no resort at all. We should go to Him for directions first. Especially, when we need to move forward in faith.

Remember. Father Knows Best

Marty

Pick Up After Yourself 7/28/2020

Good Morning,

The day started with prayer and a hot cup of Door County Raspberry Almond Coffee. I haven't had that flavor embrace my taste buds in a long time.

We have two pretty good hunting dogs and at times they can be great hunting dogs. Each of them has their own personality and they do things just a little differently.

Proverbs 28:13 Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper. But he who confesses them will find mercy.

The youngest one however has the habit of taking his food dish into his mouth and then he brings it to you when he is done eating. We aren't sure if he just wants you to take the dish so he doesn't lose it, wants a refill, or is just a clean freak. He sits with the dish in his mouth until you thank him for bringing it to you. I then take it from him and he trots away very happy.

Once a week I give both dogs an egg, scrambled or fried and place each egg portion on a plate, We have two old plates we use for this. The plates go on the floor with the eggs. Both dogs chow down and then the older one walks away when he is finished. The younger one picks up both plates and brings them to me. Mind you, no one ever tells him to do this. We thank him and praise him and then he goes on to something else.

Now here is the point of the day. If a dog can do this out of the goodness of his heart can't we also learn to pick up after ourselves and leave a room as good as we found it or even better? We often assume someone else will pick up after us.

This gets deeper. Sometimes we make a mess of life with other people and the mess is our fault. We wait and hope the mess will clean itself up and just go away. We own the mess. It is ours. Shouldn't we want to clean it up and rectify the situation? The first step is to own it and the next step is to do what it takes to fix it. Whether it is in an apology or making financial restitution for damage done.. We need to be people that learn to pick up after ourselves.

Food for thought.

Marty

Being Prepared Just In Case 7/27/2020

Good Morning,

I just sat down at my desk after giving our two dogs some time outside. My mug is filled with Door County Lemon Shortbread Cookie Coffee. The house is filled with the aroma of the coffee and some cinnamon buns that were baked earlier.

Philippians 2:4 Not looking to your own interests, but each of you to the interest of others. 

Last night I took our dogs Leo and Gibbs for a swim. There is a pond not to far from home and with the weather being as hot as it is the dogs have not been running much outside. I thought the swim was a pretty good idea. We arrived at the pond and within 2-3 minutes the sky changed colors and a fast moving storm was headed our way. The swim was going to be cut short. Leo was out on the pond retrieving a fake duck and Gibbs was on land returning one to me. The wind whipped up and it was just time for safety's sake to call it quick. I whistled Leo in and he came running. The three of us left in the truck and headed home. Then the rains came and they were a welcomed gift to gardens and lawns.

So all seemed well in our home. As usual for us, our basement sump pump kicked in and was keeping our basement dry.  You can hear it when it kicks in. Later around 9 PM something just wasn't right. Then I heard the sump pump kick in and I knew what it was. We have twin sump pumps installed in our basement. One is always in the back up position and will kick in if the lead pump fails. I have witnessed them both kick in when the 100 year rain appears and the creek out back turns into the Mississippi River.  They both have a distinct sound. What was wrong is that the lead pump failed and the secondary one had to kick in. I do exercise both pumps about four times a year to make sure the secondary one works and can carry the load in the event the lead pump fails.

We keep a third new pump on the shelf to be changed out in just these situations. Once the blog is completed I will take on that task and I would assume withing an hour we will be back to normal.

Here is my point for the day. We learned the hard way what it was like to have only one pump and then have it fail. Of course we experienced a wet basement. But that still isn't the point I want to make.

In life we all get accustomed to someone taking the lead in many things. It could be leading the family. It could be leading and planning the duck hunt. It could be the faithful leader of the Bible study. But there comes a time when those in the family, the duck hunters, or the church are needed to step up and take the place of  the leader. We can't always be the kid who goes to basketball practice, does all that is required at practice and when called on won't go into the game. I have never seen a player take a shot from the bench.  We are always preparing ourselves for some type of lead role, whether temporary or permanent.  Be prepared in any season to step up and do the job when called on. Our secondary pump kicked in automatically and I am thankful it didn't debate and wait for the third pump on the shelf to kick in and save the day.  Strange metaphor I know! But it's the best I can muster up today.

Food for thought.

Marty

The Wing Is Broken 7/26/2020

Good Morning,

It seems lonely in the house this morning. My wife Rene is still asleep. She worked late into the night on a project she has undertaken for our home. Both dogs have retired to their beds after a steamy run this morning. I am sipping on a very hot cup of Door County Lemon Shortbread Cookie Coffee . And now it is time to write.

I haven't been flying too high lately. I received a call last week from my sister. There are three of us siblings. I am the oldest and she is the "middle child" and the one and only girl. Our sister has been battling pancreatic liver cancer for a year and not too long ago was pronounced cancer free. We rejoiced with the news.

That temporary peace from the battle was shattered with one phone call. She hadn't been feeling well and a doctors visit was in order. One scan later showed that the cancer had returned with a vengeance and it was announced that there are no treatments in the future. Hospice arrangements for home and beyond are being made. I have been keeping my feelings to myself with a lot of things going through this feeble mind.

I petitioned God immediately and asked for a miracle once more. I prayed "Your will be done". Then a verse that I hand out to people who hurt with the advice to trust God in the good or the bad came into my head. This favorite verse of mine came to me, full circle.

Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God. 

I even wear a hat with that verse on it. I know her faith and I know where she will be once the Lord chooses the day for her or if He chooses to grant that miracle, the result sooner or later will be that she will embrace heaven and be with Jesus.  Of course I would like to see that many years from now. But that would be my will and I need to accept that God manages each day.

For a little while God has allowed me to fly low and deal with my feelings and emotions. But in that verse, He reassured me that I can count on Him to keep His word that no matter what the outcome He has this. It's OK to fly low and be there in the moment for my family. And although I don't feel like it, He will carry us and I really don't need cry out. He knows our needs and all I need to do is to Remember He is God and His ways are much greater than mine.

So today if you are flying low because of worldly problems that you just can't handle. Read my favorite verse and know that God is in the lows and the highs of your life. He will let you fly low but will mend that wing and call you to fly high again.

Love to all,

Marty

Love Is Tender 7/25/2020

Good Morning,

Saturday it is and in a few hours I will be joining friends for a charity shoot at a local sportsman's club. I will finish this blog and then join my brother for breakfast to celebrate his 53rd birthday. I think today will be a good day! I just poured myself a cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee and now it is time to write. It''s going to hot out there. I will keep some water close by today!

I see within the world a lot of just plain old "not getting along". Differences have polarized several groups and it is getting nasty out there. I myself have had enough of the violence and threats. Let's face it. There will always be differences out there. As long as the are opinions and free will to think there will be differences.

I prayed for wisdom before writing this today. I asked God, "how do we navigate differences"? The answer as always, is found within Scripture. It's not found in violence, threats, erasing history, segregating more, or politics. God gives us a clear plan in 1 Corinthians 113:4-5

Love does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self seeking, it is not easily angered. it keeps no record of wrongs. 

Love offers us a choice to celebrate differences, and learn from each other without tearing each other down. Love removes arrogance and adds respect to the equation. Love listens and acts when appropriate. Love also confronts tenderly.

So we are shown how love responds to differences not by some politician, or some babbling idiots. We are given the blueprint for responding to differences by God.

Food for thought.

Marty

Super Heroes Still Exist 7/24/25

Good Morning,
Starting my day with a cup of Door County Heavenly Caramel Coffee.

When I was a boy, ( some would argue that mentally I am still a boy) we were blessed to have television. Yes it was black and white with poor reception at times. And no I did not play the drum in the American Revolutionary War!

Two of my favorite TV shows were the Three Stooges and Superman. Superman was promoted as a hero who would just show up when someone was in great danger or a disaster of gigantic proportions was about to happen and he would use his super abilities to save the day. He could fly, leap tall buildings in a single bound, more powerful than a locomotive,and he had X-ray vision.

Think this one through.

Matthew 14:22-33

New King James Version (NKJV)

Jesus Walks on the Sea

²² Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. ²³ And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. ²⁴ But the boat was now in the middle of the sea,^[a] tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary.
²⁵ Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. ²⁶ And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear.
²⁷ But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”

Matthew 24:30 "At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all Matthew 24:30 "At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 JESUS WILL BE IN THE AIR- For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first.

Matthew 8:28-34

New King James Version (NKJV)

Two Demon-Possessed Men Healed

²⁸ When He had come to the other side, to the country of the Gergenses,^[a] there met Him two demon-possessed men, coming out of the tombs, exceedingly fierce, so that no one could pass that way. ²⁹ And suddenly they cried out, saying, “What have we to do with You, Jesus, You Son of God? Have You come here to torment us before the time?”
³⁰ Now a good way off from them there was a herd of many swine feeding. ³¹ So the demons begged Him, saying, “If You cast us out, permit us to go away^[b] into the herd of swine.”
³² And He said to them, “Go.” So when they had come out, they went into the herd of swine. And suddenly the whole herd of swine ran violently down the steep place into the sea, and perished in the water.
³³ Then those who kept them fled; and they went away into the city and told everything, including what had happened to the demon-possessed men. ³⁴ And behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus. And when they saw Him, they begged Him to depart from their region.

John 4:39-42 JESUS KNOWS OUR PAST³⁹ And many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all that I ever did.” ⁴⁰ So when the Samaritans had come to Him, they urged Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. ⁴¹ And many more believed because of His own word.
⁴² Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ,^[a] the Savior of the world.”

John 20:26 JESUS WALKS THOUGH WALLS TO GET TO US

New King James Version (NKJV)

²⁶ And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, “Peace to you!”


JESUS SAVES!
Acts 4: 10-12 "Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, [even] by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."Romans 10:13: "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved"John 14:6 "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

Well this was a long one. But my point is this. If there ever was a hero it is Jesus. HE IS MINE!

God bless,
Marty

Why Go To Church? They Just Want My Money 7/23/2020

 Good Morning,

Thursday once more. I am heading out to work with a hot cup of Door County Cherry Crème coffee in my hand.

I often here statement from people saying. "all churches ever want is my money" I thought it was time to address the statement.

Why bother going to church when all they want is money!

Answer: If you choose to get involved in any kind of group, be it the PTA, Boy Scouts or whatever, it will cost you in time and money. It is true that, if you don't get involved in anything, you will have maximum control of your time and money. However, you will miss friendships and opportunities to be a good influence in the lives of others. Each of us decides where to spend our time and money. Each of us will either invest it in some purpose or waste it on the pleasures of the moment. Jesus said that there is an eternal investment that will not fade, rust or decay when we do good works that show our love for God and others.

Treasures in Heaven Matthew 6:19-20 

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰ But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.


Ponder this! You do not control your life. You cannot guarantee that you will be alive the next week, day, hour or moment. Human life is a gift from God and He controls the measure of it

Psalm 139:16

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁶ Your eyes saw my unformed body;
    all the days ordained for me were written in your book
    before one of them came to be.

Our intelligence, talents and appearance are largely determined by genetics (which is to say by God who made us individually unique). Therefore, who we are, when and where we are born, how long we live, etc., are all gifts from God. Is it unreasonable for God to ask for a portion of it to acknowledge Him and His sovereignty?

Definition: Sovereignty means that God, as the ruler of the Universe, has the right to do whatever he wants. Further, he is in complete control over everything that happens.
The sovereignty of God is supported by many verses in the Bible, among them:

Psalm 115:3
Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him. (NIV)

Well that sums it up for me. Anyone want to debate?

God bless,
Marty

Strong To The Finish 7/22/2020

Good Morning,

With my cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee next to me and one of our dogs sleeping on my right foot, it is time to write.

I always read the comments on my blog every day. Some of them come through social media and others come directly on my page. A friend of mine from high school commented yesterday and  it stuck with me through yesterday and until this morning. It was personal in nature so I won't write it down this morning.

Philippians 1:3-6 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making requests for you with full joy, for your fellowship in the Gospel from the first day until now, 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. 

It however led me to write today on the fact that God is always working on us and doesn't stop until we come home to Him in heaven. He knows every good and bad thing that happens to us. He takes each experience we endure and uses it to mold us into who we are in His name. 

In our garage there are a couple of antique refinishing projects that I just can't get fired up about completing. They have been hanging around for a couple of years now. They will be difficult to do and I just don't want the challenge. So they sit for now like unwanted orphans with no one to care for them. 

But even during our worst experiences, God desires to see us through as a finished project. When we hurt emotionally He is there to remove the tear stains, wipe our noses and teach us to forgive. He doesn't view us as a project He doesn't want to complete. He might take a loss of a job and use it to teach us how to rely on Him to find the job He wants us to have. God loves us enough to never set us aside in his "garage' and wonder where He is and if He cares.

My friends. You are God's handiwork and He is not done with us yet. God is in your corner helping to build your character right up until the day He calls you home. 

Marty

Have a great day.

When Love Is Difficult 7/21/2020

Good Morning,

I am looking forward to working with a friend today and sharing a cup of Door County Blackberry Shortbread Coffee. I just finished praying and now it is time to write.

1 John 4: 11-14 Dear Friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has seen God: but if we love one another, God lives in us, and His love is made complete in us. This is how we know that we live in Him and He in us: He has given us His Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world. 

Let's face it. Not all people are easy to love, And if the truth were known I'll bet that some husbands and wives might love each other, but at times they really don't like each other.  So with being real today I will admit that I can be difficult and so at times "hard to love".

I am sure my wife just said "AMEN" .  Friends, then there are those who just are not easy to love and they don't bring the best out  of you. They open their mouth and your stomach wants to hurl. Or you just want to rip their head off and use it for a bowling ball. God tells us to love everyone.

I thought about this and said "Yes Lord, but have you ever seen this yahoo in action? But then without much effort God reminded me of the ministry of Jesus, His Son. Jesus traveled and lived with Judas Iscariot for three years and knew the whole time that Judas would betray Him unto death. Jesus didn't take Judas up on the mountain and toss him off. Jesus fed Judas along with the other thousands of people.

God sent us the Holy spirit to live within us, We have all we need within to help us not only tolerate people, but love them also.

The next time you want to throttle someone, remember Jesus fed Judas.

Marty

Burgers With Grandma 7/20/2020

Good Morning,

This day began awhile ago and it started with prayer and then the day led me to a hot cup of Door County Vanilla Cappuccino Coffee. Now it is time to write.

Proverbs 17:1 Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting. with strife. 

Yesterday we traveled to my wife's home town to visit her mother. We prepared some burgers and potato salad to take with us. Our goal was to have a nice lunch with her and Rene's brother. Everything went smoothly and the food was good. Although the whole clan was not there, it was a family dinner none the less with 4 of us present. We prayed before eating and during our meal we chatted about everything under the sun. That's when we found out that Mother took welding classes in high school during World War Two.  The banter and chit chat is something I like at the dinner table. For me, I will never forget this day. We also found out that Mother was a member of her high school girls baseball team. The wonders were unceasing at that table yesterday.

We both went home with full bellies and a heart at peace for having been there. It was a meal of fun. So make sure that as soon as you can you resume family dinners and get togethers. Enjoy your family before you can't.

Marty

Summertime Blues 7/19/2020

Good Morning,

The alarm clock had to wake this boy up this morning. Normally I am awakened by two hard charging English Springer Spaniels but one is away for some training and I believe the other one developed a little laziness and decided to sleep in. I didn't even hear the Door County Vanilla Cappuccino Coffee start to brew.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Yesterday was  strange for some reason for me. Something was missing and I just couldn't put my finger on it. The day just seemed out of sorts. My chores went well, no one in the family was sick, the washing machine didn't spill water out of it. I had an encounter in the parking lot of a grocery store in a good way. I was able to help a disabled lady load her groceries into her car and pray with her in the parking lot. Even that is not abnormal for me. Something was missing and I just couldn't put my finger on what it was.

Last night while watching the local news show, the weather portion showed some storms rolling into the Northern part of our state. My wife remarked that some people we know were camping up there. Rene said, "They might be in for some serious fireworks" meaning that they could see some high winds and experience a thunder and lightning display.   I knew what had been bothering me all day right after she spoke.

This weekend every summer for many years was our annual trip to the shore of  Lake Michigan where we would picnic and watch the fireworks show that was launched at 10:15 PM by one of the ethnic festivals.  They are awesome fireworks, but what was best about the night is that we go after church and up to 140 people would go with us. We would grill some hot dogs or something and everyone would bring a dish to pass. It was always a great time. 

But this year the Covid virus closed down the festivals and killed the fireworks night. I didn't realize how much that night meant to me. We always had too much food and one of the great things about it was that there was always someone who visited us at our picnic site.  Now and then it would be someone in need of a meal. They would leave our little picnic well fed and prayed for. We extended the love of Jesus to many who stopped by.

So I guess, the summer time blues kicked in a little for me. I am not saying feeling disappointed is wrong, but I decided that I won't let that happen to me again. I will rejoice in the fact that since 1994, Rene and I have been watching those fireworks and eating some Cheetos as well as other things. I will rejoice in the fact that we shared many moments of fun down at the lakefront with friends and family.

I decided that I will look forward to the next time we all can gather, but most of all I will be thankful for 26 years of fun.

Don't let the blues kick in my friends. But kick the blues right out of your heart and minds.

God bless,

Marty

Just A little Pepper Adds A Lot Of Flavor 7/18/2020

Good Morning,

My day began with prayer for a friend of ours who fell yesterday and had to take a trip to the hospital for some care. I really like to pray but it's a hard thing to hear when someone you love needs prayer because of an accident. Praise the Lord she is going to be alright.

Psalm 101:3 I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. I hate the work of  those who fall away; it shall not cling to me. 

I did a dumb thing yesterday and I am ashamed to admit it. It was stupid and I should have known better. But there is a lesson to be shared here. Our vegetable garden is starting to take off in a good way. My wife Rene and I planted a variety of pepper plants this year hoping that the tomatoes, peppers, fruit and cilantro plants would be able to combine later this summer into some zesty salsa. So there was a variety of peppers planted. They range from sweet peppers to some blazing hot peppers. I forgot when planting these peppers to label them. So except for color I cannot tell what these miniature pepper buds are, Once they have grown some more I should be able to tell what all the green ones are.

But yesterday as I was examining the growth progress on all the little green pepper buds I noticed one tiny little bud was not looking too good. I pulled it off and put it in a bag I was using to throw away leaves from the flowers and vegetables that had received some storm damage a few days ago.

A few minutes later a drop of sweat rolled down my forehead and deposited itself right into my eye. It was a perfect shot! I used my index finger on my right hand to wipe away the salty sweat bomb. That's when I discovered that the tiny pepper bud was one of the hot peppers I planted. I assumed it was a sweet bell pepper. That pepper bud had leaked a little juice onto my finger. My eye started to burn and tear up like there was a five alarm fire in it. Once your eye gets messed with, your nose begins to run and it also triggered a quick run to the kitchen for a rinse job. Hurrying into the kitchen caused me to slip and bang my hand on the granite counter top. Calamity hit with just one drop of pepper juice.

Here's the lesson for today. Just a drop of that juice was enough to "season my eye" in a big way. So as the pepper juice needed to be washed away after it caused some pain, some of the things we allow our eyes to see aren't good for us and they can have a lasting impact. They need to be washed from our life.

Some men, women and now teenagers have discovered internet porn which has a whole slew of consequences like sex trafficking, degrading of the mind and in some instances bodily harm as well as debt. In some instances it might have started with just watching some "juicy episodes" of a television show that was best left un-watched. But just a little juice started a whole bigger problem. One that can ruin lives, marriages and more.

Here is what I learned.  Be careful as to what gets to your eyes at all times. Just a little is sometimes way too much.

God bless,

Marty

Don't Fall Into Your Own Trap! 7/17/2020

Good Morning,

Friday came right on time and it feels good to be drinking some Door County Mistletoe Mocha Coffee. Just a little Christmas in July for me.

There are times when I wonder how some people can say whatever they want or do whatever they want and nothing seems to happen to them. I believe that there are people who are in continual motion with the capability of unleashing meanness in epic proportions on a moment's notice. They are like the tropical storm that is no big deal but overnight can turn into a nasty hurricane. They leave a wake of human emotional destruction. They always know more than anyone else and they will tell you so.

They feel they are justified in saying what is on their mind whether it hurts others or not. But yet when the tide turns on them and they receive a little bit of the way they treated others, they cry like they are being stung by a hoard of bees.

So if you have a mean streak in you there is a Bible verse of caution. If you are one who has opened a 10 pound can of mean and have sprung the trap on others, this verse is one you should memorize. We would all do well to heed this one.

Proverbs 26:27 Whoever digs a pit will fall into it; if someone rolls a stone, it will roll back on them. 

A good prayer for all of us today would be. Dear God, help me not to be vindictive or nasty. I know I will reap what I sow. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen

Have a great day!

Marty

What We Have Is Enough 7/16/2020

Good Morning,

The weather cooled off enough to be able to open some windows and bring in some fresh air. I found my way to the kitchen by way of the aroma coming from the pot brewing some Door County Cherry Creme Coffee. I have one dog asleep on my feet and it is time to write.

Philippians 4: 11-12 I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances I have. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.

Just think about it for a minute. If you are my age which is 63 and I compare what it was like 50 years ago to what it is like now, it just blows my mind. There are just so many more things to have. My mother in law is 93 and she talks about the differences in life from 80 years ago and it is just amazing as to how technology and "Things: have developed.  Cell phones, tablets, iPods, online shopping. The world it could be said, is at our fingertips. It would be easy to become discontent with our lives.

I am going to blow away some pastors right now with a statement or two here and I hope you will hang with me as I finish this thought. Early Christians experienced great growth personally as well as enlarging the churches without technology.  Many of these experiencing growth were persecuted, murdered, hunted down, and even forbidden to gather. They didn't have luxurious buildings with cushy seats. They couldn't sit back in their recliner and tune in the church service on their phone, television or computer.  How could that be, that they grew?

Yet Christianity today with all of it's bells and whistles seems to be slowing down and not growing as it could or should. People still church hop and now it is easier because they don't have to get into their cars or walk to church. We forget that the strength it takes to turn on the computer or even our next breath is given to us by God. We forget God's plan of perfect grace and mercy through Jesus Christ  is never to be taken for granted and should be our prize possession. We should be growing in numbers and in faith. The difference from then to now is this. They only had the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. Some had spent time with him personally. They were alive and filled with the Holy Spirit. That was enough for them. We have grown discontent and want more feelings and emotional experiences and we think it will help us grow spiritually if have louder music, dine in seating, fresh coffee, and London type fog with laser light displays.

Funny thing, is this. If God is the One who gives me my next breath and He is the One, really all I need is Him, His Word and His Spirit. I should be content!

Food for thought.

Marty

Shooting Straight 7/15/2020

Good Morning,

Some hot weather is headed our way today and I have a full day of work ahead of me. I like being busy and it keeps me sleeping well. I just poured a cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee and now it is time to write.

1 Timothy 2:8 Therefore  I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without wrath and dissension. 

Today my brother's oldest son is celebrating a birthday.  When Nick was very young, hunting was ingrained into his DNA. From about 4 years old right up to this very day he has been a hunting partner to me. I recall him wanting to blow my duck calls and what came out of the four year old one day in a swamp sounded like a Kazoo band on steroids. It was that same day that we discovered hanging duck calls for a man should not be worn by a miniature four year old. The hanging calls are right in the pee zone of the tyke and that my friends is not good. But he now calls ducks and geese with the best of them.

I knew the day would come when the little guy would ask me when he could try shooting. When he was  five years old I would have him stand next to me while I sat on a pail and he and I would both hold the 12 gauge and he would rap off a couple of rounds.

Then as age permitted it was time for Nick to try shooting trap. At first he wasn't in tune with clay pigeons, and swinging the shot gun. But with lots of practice Nick has developed into a steady shot and can shoot with the best of them. Although, it is nice when us old guys are lucky enough to humble him once in awhile. But those days are getting sparse.

The lesson here has to do more with life. I said Nick was a good shot with a gun. But he is also one of the hardest working guys I know. Besides that, his yes is a yes and his no is a no. He can be counted on to be a "square shooter of a man," He is quick to help others and encourage those down on their luck.  He is a man of prayer. He often requests prayer for others and is quick to pray for me when I ask him to. I guess, of all the things he learned from me and a few ancestors I am most proud to say Nick prays. How about you friend? What is your legacy?

Marty

The Garden Of Trust 7/14/2020

Good Morning,

My day began real early today and I am just going to need some extra Door County Cinnamon Hazelnut Coffee to give this day a kick start.

I was surveying the vegetables growing in our garden yesterday and I can see the Lord's hand on that garden. I really enjoy growing things that we can use and share later. It is a good feeling.

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

It was said above to trust the Lord with all our heart. To trust someone you can't even see seems to be next to impossible. The key to this is faith. When we place our faith in God we are headed to incredible things. I call this the garden of trust. The more we trust in God the more our faith grows. We learn to trust in things things that in the past would have been untrustable. When we rely on God by faith to influence our decisions and we then follow Him, we are never on the wrong path.

Our garden of trust grows every time we place our faith in God instead of leaning on our own abilities.

Let the garden of your faith be fertile. Trust in God to lead.

Marty

Coming Home 7/13/2020

Good Morning,

My day began with some quiet prayers for several of my friends who are ill. Some have been on my prayer list for a long time. The mug sitting next to me contains some very hot Door County Cinnamon Hazelnut Coffee.

1 Corinthians 13:13 So now, faith hope and love abide, but the greatest of these is love.

Yesterday afternoon Rene and I returned home from a short visit to Door County Wisconsin. It was a relaxing time and I for one could have used another day there. No complaints here. Our house was being watched by a friend who also had the task of keeping our oldest dog Gibbs company. The youngest one, Leo is away for two weeks at dog hunting camp learning some of the fine points of his heritage.

When we pulled into home our house sitter had already left for her home and went to prepare herself for the work week. Our home and dog were in good hands. The first thing I did after I parked the car was to open the door to the house. 39 pounds of furry excitement met us at the door and came spinning, dancing and jumping around to greet us. Gibbs was excited to see us. Although he was well taken care of and well nurtured, in his mind and ours there is no one like family. Having us come through the door made his day. A greeting like that made our day too.

The thought of the day is this. When was the last time that you greeted someone in your circle of family or friends with such exuberance that they knew that your heart was spinning, dancing, and jumping around because you were excited just to see them and welcome them into your day?

That's called love!

Think about it for awhile and see if we can't learn a lesson from the dog. Let people know how much they mean to you. You have it within you to do so. So do it.

God bless,

Marty

With The Eyes Of Your Heart 7/12/2020

Good Morning,

The sun is working hard to peek out from behind the clouds this morning. My cup was just filled with Door County Kona Blend Coffee and now it is time to write.

Today I desire to write a devotional yet it is more of a prayer for all of you who will read it today or days in the future. I can't take any credit for the beautiful words I will share. They come directly from Scripture. I was reading my Bible yesterday and this passage stood out and it touched my heart. I knew right then and there what I would be sharing with all of you today.

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people.

We live in a spiritual world  and as Christians we all too often become creatures of habit. For instance today is Sunday and many will attend church or listen to the pod cast at home. They will receive a good message, mail in an offering or drop one into a plate and then be satisfied. They will go home feeling that they have completed their ritual or duty to assemble and be fed. Nothing changes for them.

My prayer today is that as we attend church or watch it from a computer is for us to open the eyes of our heart. Friends, God is always at work to redeem a lost world, showing compassion, and assisting us in our daily lives. In order to open the eyes of our hearts we need to pray and be willing to be used. We can be by inheritance, a part of God's work. With the eyes of our heart leading us, there is no limit to what God wants you to see and accomplish with Him for His Kingdom.

Maybe instead of feeling sorry for yourself, God will call you to show love or compassion to someone else. With the eyes of your heart leading the way, they will lead you to pass by anxiety and despair, right to working beside God.

So today, as I prayed for you, pray for me also that I might see with my heart. Our eyes might see the beggar in the road, but the eyes of our heart will lead us to give him water.

Dear Friends, experience God with all your heart and soul. It is your family inheritance.

Marty

It Just Isn't The Same 7/11/2020

Good Morning,

Today I am writing with a cup of Door County Highlander Grog entertaining my taste buds. My wife Rene and I are actually visiting Door County this weekend. Thanks to our neighbors and our good friend Amanda, our home has a sitter and our older dog has a companion to spoil him. The younger dog is away at hunting camp for ten days.

Jeremiah 29:12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, And I will hear you.

Photo Credit Wikipedia

Rene and I arrived in Door County early yesterday afternoon and the first thing we did was to go to the emporium that makes the fresh cherry donuts for our fist treat.  As is usual the place had many cars in the parking lot. But what was different was that everyone had to wear a mask just to enter the business. This is because of the Covid 19 pandemic. I understand the need for the masks and I totally support the Public Health Department mandates. Rene and I conform and try not to be disobedient.

So we entered and despite the mask covering my nose I found my way to the donuts that were just coming out of the fryer. Like a hunting dog, I followed the scent right to the main attraction. This store also sells many other goodies like pickled beets, pickles, mustard, salsa, cherries, pies and a whole host of jams and jellies. Before the pandemic you could walk through and sample all of the goods on a cracker or a tortilla chip. Now you can't. I would arrive with a nice clean shirt and leave with a spotted up one. Rene said she could always tell what I sampled by just looking at what I spilled on my shirt. But now you can't get a "free lunch".

We hit a few more specialty shops and it was the same. The sign outside said "Masks to be worn inside"  Although we enjoyed ourselves greatly, it just wasn't the same. The masks are for our own good and for the good of others, so you just need to do it and you can still enjoy yourself. But it wasn't the same! People seemed to be on edge a little, wondering if they should have just stayed home instead. I know we both talked about it. But even that wasn't what bothered me. It is good to be here and see Lake Michigan at it's best. But what is missing are the smiles behind the masks. The ability to greet someone with a smile and say thank you with a smile is gone. That's what was missing all day. I miss the greetings and all those beautiful smiles. My prayer is that some day we can return to living without masks and smiling like we used to. A smile seals a deal!

Love to all. Be safe and pray.

Marty

A Social Challenge 7/10/2020

Good Morning,

I wrote this last night for our church daily devotional and I liked it enough to share it in my blog this morning. So today after my prayer time I will hit the publish button and share it with you. Tomorrow I will be writing to you with a fresh message from a well relaxed man. I can hear the Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee brewing right now. And it is time to publish!

A Personal Challenge From Marty

I have seen a lot of personal challenges on social media asking people to post pictures of their spouses or kids for a specified amount of days. Some have challenged others to lose weight for money and then donate the money to a charity.

So being a social butterfly myself ( most people who know me just started laughing) I want you read the rest of the devotional and then consider the challenge at the end. It will cause you to put on your big girl or big boy pants to accomplish this challenge.

Matthew 6:14-15 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Jesus is speaking directly to us in the verse above. And in this verse, He offers a wonderful promise---- “forgiveness”! But this promise comes with an IF and the IF depends on our hearts. He will forgive us IF we forgive others. We can choose to forgive and be forgiven, or we can hold on to bitterness, anger, and envy. If we choose the wrong path we only hurt ourselves further.

Our selfish focus leaves Christ on the cross and our sins still with us. We aren’t living a resurrected life. But when we live by Christ’s words and forgive others , healing, repair and love are ours, and we can live in freedom.

Here is the challenge: Pick that person, right now who needs your forgiveness and put them on the top of your prayer list and then let them know you forgive them.

Man up, Lady up and “git er” done!

God bless.

Tuning In The Dial Of Marriage 7/9/2020

Good Morning,

When I awoke this morning I could hear two doves who were perched on the top of our house talking to each other. It seemed like all sound had been silenced except for those two love birds chatting to each other.  Then I heard the Door County Cherry Creme Coffee start to brew and I knew this day had really started.

Ephesians 4:15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ. 

Those two birds took me back a thousand years to when my wife Rene and I started dating. Now if anyone really knows me very well I am not a love bird sweet talking kind of guy. Nor is Rene talkative at all! But what I remember most about those first dates was how much we laughed together and enjoyed learning all we could about each other.

A thousand years later we still enjoy laughing together and to be honest as we age there is still much to learn about each other. We have changed a little with age and things that bother me now didn't bother me back in the day. This Covid thing has Rene very wary and afraid at times. I never thought I would see her afraid of anything. But she watched me be ill for about 40 days and it had an impact on her. I learned that she wondered what she would do without me.

Relationships are like analog radios. Sometimes they just need to be tuned in to get better reception. The radio was fine two weeks ago but for some reason this week it needs to be adjusted a little for better reception. You don't want to listen to your favorite music filled with static.

Friends, the lesson for today is this. Things change and people change but a good husband and wife stay in tune with each other and are able to adjust the relationship dials to meet the needs of each other. You have to take time to talk and above all, listen to one another. What was, isn't anymore and knowing the whys and whats of the changes helps to keep you love birds cooing through the good and the bad.

Stay tuned in and reduce the static in your marriage. Be heard and be a good listener. Don't laugh, but we still have a working radio like the one pictured above.

Love to all,

Marty

Angels Among Us 7/8/2020

Good Morning,

I am starting today with a cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee and a dish full of hope for a good day.  I woke up and that is a positive start!

Yesterday I wrote about being convicted to give a man a few dollars at the side of the road and it created a little bit of a stir in blog land. Today I won't defend what I did, because when the Spirit of God leads me to do it again, I will.

When I first started reading a Bible in 1981 everything within it's pages was wonder and a delight to read. Some of the first passages I read back then stuck with me in a big way and they still impact a lot of my actions. One of the first ones actually caused me to lose some sleep after reading it. Back in  pre -1981 I could walk by someone in need and think that they should get a job or work harder. I had little or no compassion.

Hebrews 13:2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing so, some have unwittingly entertained angels.

When I think about some of the interactions I have had with strangers and how they showed me hospitality and before I could thank them they disappeared. And on the opposite hand how many strangers have I helped and when I turned for a moment, they were gone. I often wondered if these people were angels sent my way to help me or to test me and my generosity level.

 So this verse taught me to appreciate strangers and keep an open heart and mind. The second verse  is

Matthew 25:40  The King will reply, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for the least of my brothers and sisters  of mine, you did for Me."

So my friends when you see a stranger in need or a stranger that just wants to be friendly. Do you really want to gamble on whether or not you are interacting with an angel, or let alone ignoring another child of God? We are supposed to be a family!

Marty

What Is Seen And What Is Not Seen 7/7/2020

Good Morning,

This day began with prayer for quite a few friends of mine who are battling serious illnesses. God placed them on my heart the very minute I woke up. I am enjoying a cup of Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee as I write today.

Not long ago I was driving to our work office and at the intersection that leads to the highway there was a man with a sign saying he was homeless and needed money for food. He stared at me and looked me in the eye. I assumed tight off that if I gave him some money he wouldn't use it for food anyway. I had immediately cast judgement on this person without knowing him or his story at all.  When I looked away from him I suddenly felt like I was going to vomit. I couldn't see beyond my own blinded heart.

I knew God was working on me and I knew that I had some loose dollar bills in my pocket. I pulled them out of my pocket and reached out of the window of my truck and handed them to the man. The man thanked me, and said " I really do need food" as if he felt he had to justify his need verbally. I told him he was welcome to the money and that I would pray for him. He nodded and said this. "Thank you, for the prayers. If you only knew!"

Friends, I will never know what that meant. But I do know this, I judged by what I saw. My spiritual eyes were closed .

2 Corinthians 4:18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

We need to see people and situations as God sees them. We need to always bend toward generosity instead of running to judgement.  We need to be looking with our eyes on the eternal, Once the money left my hand it was up to the needy man as to what he was going to do with the money. I had answered God's call and I should have never put on the hat of judgement.

Food for thought.

Marty

Follow The Instructions 7/6/2020

Good Morning,

The day began with a lot of sunshine and some very warm air. I was blessed to be able to sit down with a cup of Door County Churro Coffee and a bowl of Cheerios. So despite some very hot weather, all is good in this house.

I have studied God's Word since 1981 and I have personally witnessed it's power to change lives. There are 66 books within the Bible and I believe everyone of them to be the true God breathed word of God. There are a lot of do's and don't within this treasure chest. Each page is filled with what God desires for us to know or to follow.

Yet, all too often we read the Bible to find something to soothe our soul and forget to do what is asked of us. I do believe that the Bible can and does soothe our hearts, our minds and our souls with words of comfort, compassion, correction, and love. I also believe it gives us the footprints for doing the things God expects from us. Yes I do sit and read my Bible in the winter with a fire in the hearth and enjoy nights of peace. Friend's there are also times while drinking some hot chocolate, and wearing some warm pajamas that the same Bible calls me to action. It redirects my course in life or gives me a severe correction of attitude or actions.

God even gives us directions on how to read and  DO the Word.

James 1:22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

It is simple. Forgive as commanded, work hard, don't cheat, steal, or lie. God expects not only to read His word, but to live it.

Have a great day.

Marty

Fourth Of July Fireworks 7/5/2020

Good Morning,

Another bright and shiny day for us in our part of the world. I am really enjoying this hot cup of Door County Churro  Coffee that sits next to me.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control; against such things there is no law.

Last night as our neighborhood  celebrated our Independence day. A few of our neighbors set off some spectacular fireworks.  There are two sides to everything  and fireworks can be one of those. They are illegal in our state. Yet everywhere you go, there are businesses selling these illegal delights. So of course this has a lot of people with different opinions. I for one enjoy seeing the sky lit within reason, with some aerial explosions of noise and color. But certain fireworks only cause damage.

The noise does bother some pets and I am a proud loving owner of two Springer Spaniels who get all happy when the fireworks go off. It reminds them of hunting and a big flock of geese coming in. They want to be outside looking for downed birds. I let them out and they enjoy the noise, but are disappointed when they can't find any downed ducks or geese. Once the fireworks stop our two dogs go to bed, no harm no foul. But some dogs get all worked up from the noise.

Proverbs 29:11 A fool gives full vent  to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back. 

So you can see that the fireworks create a little controversy. But that's not what I want to write about today.

In too many homes the daily fireworks exhibit goes on every day. I am talking about the constant verbal fighting and bickering that takes place in homes. It has the kids on edge, parents on edge or elderly grandparents disturbed as they wait for the daily fireworks to begin and disrupt the already shattered peace of the home. The loud fighting and arguing is disturbing to those who live the daily battle. Kids go to bed and have to listen to mom and dad battle it out. Or the rest of the family is disturbed by the rebellious teen who feels they have the right to scream at their parents. The parents are angry so they yell. The whole home sits on the precipice of a blow up every day. Nerves are shattered and depression roams wild  in the family.

The noise of our actual fireworks dies out and is resurrected every July. But yet some live on edge waiting for the daily fireworks to begin. They have no peace or happiness.  Now as some people overlook the law, of you can buy these but not light them many people overlook the law of "getting along" God has mandated for us. The evil within us rises to flash point because someone if not both parties are being selfish and cannot reach a ceasefire of the hostilities. Always look within to the cause of big blowups and you will find the explosive mixture of selfishness, anger, lack of love and respect for others.

Hebrews 12: 14 Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. 

Friends, strive for peace within our homes it can and will lead for peace outside of the home. As daily fireworks would some damage to pets who are afraid of the noise, the daily fireworks of arguing and battling are causing grief to those in the home and will have a long lasting impact.

Want world peace? Start in your own home, heart and mind first.

Marty

Demonstrators On The Fourth Of July 7/4/2020

Good Morning,

I just came in from being outside with our two dogs and a cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee. It is time to write.

Psalm 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the is the Lord.

While I was outside I was placing more United States Flags on our property to celebrate our Independence Day ( July 4th).  We fly a large flag year round but on this day I place several more flags in the flower garden to show my love for my country.

There has been a lot of civil unrest in the nation which I  believe will bring some needed change. There have been marches and demonstrations across the nation and the world in the last month. Some of which have turned ugly and violent. I do not support that tone of making a point at all.

But long before this started there are what I would call demonstrations and marches going on to celebrate being a free nation and the fact that we can march down a street. They were very well organized, legal, and drew a lot of attention. The American flag was shown and led the way as the marchers made their way through, what was usually main street.

My Dad was one who marched every year and did so right up until he died. He stood proud for the flag and what it stands for. He was willing to go to war to keep our freedom and help others who could not be free. He marched with dignity and respect, showing his love for his country. 

So demonstrations of solidarity for peace, liberty and the pursuit of happiness have long been a part of this country. Dad I salute you and the flag you would have died for.

God Bless America. My Home Sweet Home.

Marty

When The Kids Become The Sharks 7/3/2020

Good Morning,

I am not sure how the tradition started and I am not one to go with silly made up holidays but I kind of like the idea of "Christmas In July".  I am not seeing as much of the hoopla and thoughts on Christmas in July this year. I believe Covid 19  screwed that up too. But, I will use any excuse to break out some Door County Coffee Christmas flavors and treat my taste buds to a holiday delight. I just finished brewing some Mistletoe Mocha coffee and now it is time to write.

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, and when his is old he shall not depart from it. 

I am an old guy now and I am considered old school in my thoughts and beliefs. And if you call me old school I will consider it a compliment even though you didn't mean it that way. I am watching parents these days "cater" to their kids. Now I am all for loving children, feeding them, clothing them, and teaching them right from wrong. The subject of right from wrong has new loose interpretations which we will discuss later this month. We are to support our children in their endeavors and be there when they fall spiritually, emotionally and physically.

Now days most children have their law degree by the age of ten. They can debate, argue and manipulate adults like a slick city lawyer.  Many meals are created around the wants and desires of the kids. This often leads to multiple meals being made adding to the stress of the one preparing the meals. Try having the kid make the meal and then tell them at the dinner table it's not what you wanted. Oh man another trip to therapy! How about the fact that they now tell you how many extra events they want to participate in, at or away from school. Try saying no and see what response you get. The lawyer comes out and you have to justify yourself to the child who lucky for you knows everything. You don't even need a computer or Google. You have God's gift of knowledge right in front of you. Just ask the kid. They will tell you,"You don't understand". I can't even fathom telling my parents to make us kids two different dinners or saying " I am not going to eat that". Better yet, I want us to go to a different church or school.

Let me clear this one up for you. Dad or mom, depending on the make up of the home. But let's just for this moment say there are two parents. In some instances four. The hardship of single parenting and dual parenting is tough. But anyway, Dad or the responsible adult is the Spiritual leader of the home. Since when do the kids decide if, where and when they attend church? Who is the adult in the mix. Oh yes the kids will manipulate, whine, they might even disown you. I would disown you too. You didn't take a stand! They don't know where you stand. You have no back bone. I don't blame them for disowning you. They aren't following, they are leading you.  Oh that's right. I forgot. They know everything! Friends, when the children lead the house, whether it's food choices, when to wear make up, when to date, what school they will attend, or where the family worships, the little sharks have your boat surrounded and they will sink their ship as well as yours. Parents, you can't be counted on in their minds already. Enforcing some rules in your minds might make you "lose your kids". I suggest you already lost them and are nothing but their puppets.

This is a hard ship to steer and needs to start when they are very little. Remember they are already in law school the first time they tell you no. But if they can't count on you to take a stand and hold it, they already lost their respect for you.

Enough said. The world want's to educate your kids spiritually. God tells us that we are in charge. Lead my friends or let the kids lead. Oh I forgot again, they know everything. And God must not know anything either. Just ignore it when He says to "raise the children".

Marty

Take Pride In The Right Thing 7/2/2020

Good Morning,

I say that to all of you and it comes right from my heart. I am enjoying this time of the morning because it is still cool outside and my Door County Black and Tan Coffee is going down very smoothly. Our goal is to make a trip to Door County this summer for a couple of days of relaxation.

Proverbs 16:18-19 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed, than to share plunder with the proud.

In my many years of ministry I have been blessed to be able to participate in short term mission trips and stay in areas that were some of the poorest in the world. I was always amazed by the faith and commitment shown to the Christian walk by people that barely had the necessities of life. I was often just blown away by their willingness to share what they had as they invited me into their homes.  When I compared the blessings I enjoyed back home, to what they didn't have  I was stripped of any haughtiness and I was humbled to the bone. I learned immediately that faith did not come from status or possessions.

I have met some of the most inspirational people in the world who had their pride in the right place. They valued their faith in God, loving on people, and sharing the message of Jesus Christ above all.

Today, if you are tempted to look down on anyone, look up instead. Take a close look and know that all you have came from God, but what you should value most is your faith in Jesus Christ.

Have a great day.

Marty