Trying To Clear My Mind 6/30/2023

 Good Morning. 

I am awake early and will be meeting a friend soon to tackle a small project at his home. I just poured a hot mug of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee and now it is time to write. I have something on my mind that I don't care to share and it is weighing me down. I tried to get lost and train my dogs with some pond work. It didn't help. Once we were done with the swimming the problem was right there in the front of my mind. Yes friends I have been praying about this concern for a long time.

I needed to get some time alone without a phone, radio or other people, in a place where I can cry out to God and seek His direction and peace. I counted on God to direct my paths. 

Isaiah 30:20-21 Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. 21.Whether you turn to the right or the left , your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way, walk in it." 

I am not one to cherry pick Bible verses in times of need. But as I was studying last night in the quiet of my den, this verse came to mind. Where I least expected to find any peace I found it at an old desk sitting on an old chair. God doesn't need a golden pond or a cabin in the woods to sit down with you and talk. I take Him at His word that we will know the path to take and  how to find peace. 

God bless,

Marty

Resting Up From A long Week. 6/29/2023

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot mug of Door County Creme Coffee as I write and look forward to a long weekend.

Psalm 3:5 I Lie down and sleep, I awake again because the Lord sustains me. 

It has been a busy week and I am grateful for the work. It has been awhile since I have been kept this busy and I believe I am out of work shape. I have been going to bed earlier than normal and it has been a chore to pry me out of the rack in the morning. 

I have some simple plans for the weekend which includes attending a wedding reception for two wonderful young folks. I for sure want to get our dogs in the water for a work out and some training for the youngest one. 

One thing for sure, I will catch up on my rest. Have you ever been in awesome wonder of how God has made our bodies? We don't have to check with anyone else to know we are tired, hungry, thirsty, hot or cold. Our bodies were made to take care of us and to have us use them wisely. When we get a warning sign from our body, it essentially is God telling us to cool off or drink some water.

When we are tired and we close our eyes to sleep, it is God nudging you and I to rest. Once I thought of the complexity of the human body I just can't deny that God exists. He built us with love.

Food for thought on this fine Thursday. 

Marty

I'm Here My Friend 6/28/2023

 Good Morning,

My day began with a large cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee and some prayer. 

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor,. If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help him up. 

Have you ever been in the dark without any source of light. I recall a power outage when we first moved into our home back in 1994 and it lasted for about a day. Besides having no lights, the night was about as dark as you could get with storms rolling in one after another. We were very poorly prepared for a power outage and it showed as we stumbled about looking for candles and matches. Within an hour we had lit a couple of candles and then found two flashlights and a propane camping light. 

Just that little bit of light made a big difference in feeling a little more secure. Shortly after we had some lights in our home there was a knock on our door. The neighbor across the street was in need of some light and he asked if we had any to spare. The time was about midnight. By this time Rene had found enough candles to keep us in good shape for a couple of days. I invited him in, out of the rain and Rene packed him up with a few candles and a hot cup of coffee we had brewed on a camp stove. About an hour later I noticed that our street was flooding due to branches and foliage blocking the storm drains. I went outside swearing that my next purchase would be a head lamp. I was pulling hard on the storm debris and was not winning the battle. I heard a voice in the storm and it was the neighbor who had borrowed some candles. I heard him say, "I'm here my friend just wait for me to help." He waded through the knee deep water in the road and helped me to pull some heavy branches away from the drain. Soon we had water swirling down that drain and we then moved to the next one. We had to do that a couple of times through the night. Up until then as neighbors we barely said hi to one another. The calamity caused us to work together and bond in a mutual cause. It was sad day when that set of neighbors moved away. 

The point of this story is, whenever calamity strikes don't scroll yourself away and not be involved in mutual aid. Share what you have and welcome a helping hand if you need it. The walls of pride fell that night when I could not budge some of those branches and I was much younger in 1994. I was grateful for the help.

By the way I have two head lamps. God bless.

Marty 

God Isn't Finished With Me Yet 6/27/2023

 Good Morning,

It is time to write and sip on a hot mug of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee. Then it's off to work I go!

At 66 years old there are still a few things that I want to change about me and at times I get very angry with myself for not measuring up to expectations. Despite the despair of not being all that I should be, I find solace in the thought that even God isn't finished with me. 

Philippians 1:6 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. 

It's nice to know that God is not in a hurry and He completes His work when and how He sees fit. Better yet, it is also nice to know that God isn't done with me. I am not yet what I will be some day! Life is a long swim. 

Food for thought!

Marty

The Morning Dew And Sheep 6/26/2023

 Good Morning,

I have a busy week before me and the sooner I get started on it, the better it will turn out. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee. 

Job 38:28 Who fathers the dew from heaven?

Photo Credit. Negative Space.

Did you know that a sheep can go for a long time without taking a drink from a pool of water? But, only if the sheep gets to the morning grass early enough to dine on grass laden with dew. Now the sheep won't get fat and flourish as it should, but it can survive. I used to think that dew was just an annoying liquid that made my boots wet when I walked through tall grass in the morning. 

As the sheep just gets enough to survive, I am sure they want more water. I am comparing the dew to God's presence in our lives. Sometimes we only drink a small amount of His Word, just taking in enough to survive in life, but not enough to seriously impact our lives, decisions, and faith. 

So when you sit down to pray and read, do so with a hunger that draws you to sit, stop other activities, and refresh your faith. Take in all that you can. 

The limits have no boundaries. 

Marty

Rain To Wash Your Face 6/25/2023

 Good Morning,

Today my cup was just filled with some very hot Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and now it is time to write.

Hosea 10:12 Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love, break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord, that he may come and rain righteousness upon you.

Last night we received some much needed rain. It wasn't a lot of rain but at this point in a drought every little bit helps. I have been praying for rain to come and last night it came. It felt good to be outside as the rain drops began to fall. I stayed outside until my head was wet and I washed my face with my wet hands. It was quite late into the night and I just happened to be awake when the rain started. 

It sounds silly but I did take the time to wash my face after midnight with God's gift. I took full advantage of God's gift and answered prayer. I have been very busy lately and it will wind down after this week. That cool rain on my face felt so refreshing that I stayed in the yard and just enjoyed my time celebrating  answered prayer.

We tend to take a lot of things for granted and don't appreciate what we have until we don't have it. To be awake and able to enjoy a gift from God was faith at it's best. If the rain had come on a work day it still would have been nice, but also inconvenient. I just want to say that I enjoyed my walk in the garden with God and the gift of the rain. That time not only was physically refreshing, but it also refreshed a parched soul and gave me an upstart to this upcoming busy week. 

Find some rain and wash your face and  let your soul be renewed by time spent with God.

Marty

Finding Some Peace And Comfort In A Tough World!

 Good Morning,

I have a hot cup of Door County Pecan Scones in front of me and two Springer Spaniels who just want to play behind me. It is time to write.

When times are tough on my heart, and the world seems to be attacking my very soul, I often retreat to the comfort of my den for some extra prayer and time spent in God's Word. I find comfort, contentment, and hope in the verses I read. I believe the Bible is God's word and it is there for guidance, chastisement, hope and comfort. 

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is God breathed, and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training. in righteousness, so that the servant of God, may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

I wanted to lay out some Bible verses that help me to find my way now and then and share them with you.  I hope they help and soothe hearts and souls today. 

Peace; Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer, and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Hope; Deuteronomy 31:8-9 The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid and do not be discouraged. 

Contentment; Psalm 23:1 The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing. 

Comfort; Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust Him, so that you may overflow with hope, by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Love; Psalm 143:8 Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.  Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life. 

God loves you my friends. Have a great day.

Marty

Tragedy At Sea 6/23/2023

 Good Morning,

There is a hot mug of Door County Caramel Pecan Scones Coffee steaming in front of me and it is time to write.

Just because you can do something doesn't make it right. This past week, we all were made aware of the group that attempted to travel by deep sea submarine to observe the Titanic in it's resting place. We watched and prayed after we heard that communications were lost to the submarine. A large effort was made by many sources to find and rescue the sub and it's occupants. Yesterday we learned that the sub had imploded and those aboard were lost. My heart goes out to the families of those who died.

The Titanic has always been a source of wonder and as of late exploration. On April 14th, 1912 the Titanic hit an iceberg and sank to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. September 1st 1985 the Titanic was found and filmed lying on the ocean floor. There have been movies about the tragedy as well as many documentaries.  No bodies or skeletons have been found that the site. I have watched a few of the documentaries and they are very interesting. Yet while doing so, I feel like I have invaded someone's grave. I for one have seen enough and actually feel bad now that the sea has claimed more lives and the watery grave holds 5 more. I think anything we could learn from the original sinking has been learned. Now it is time to seal the "grave" and stop the commercial traffic going to the site. 

Folks a thought for this Friday. Just because you can, doesn't mean you should. What things are legal for you, yet wrong for you? You know your own list. What needs to be removed?

1 Corinthians 6:12 All things are lawful for me. But not all things are helpful. 

Marty

My First Work 6/22/2023

 Good Morning,

I am ready to write as I sip on a hot cup of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee. The sun is up and it is time to get this day started. 

Exodus 20:12 Honor your fathers and mother that your days may be long. 

I was listening to talk radio yesterday as they expounded on how many programs there are within the city to keep kids active throughout the summer. I mulled that over for awhile and it gave me a good laugh. A plan to keep kids active. There was a lot of money allotted to this as well. As I laughed, I also wondered how I survived as a kid without programs to keep us active. 

Well depending on my age at the time, somehow I managed to have friends. And once our chores were done and I didn't hear anyone mention that chores were a way to keep kids active. We were left to entertain ourselves. This could be games of four square, bike rides, a trip to the county pool, pick up baseball games, water balloon fights, or squirt guns. When we were younger, building forts and playing army could last for days. There was always something to do. 

Once I was strong enough to start a lawn mower I picked up two mowing jobs for the summer. I was so proud of being able to make some money and have a bank account. Have we ever considered that working is an activity? Soon that ingenuity paid off and pretty soon I was painting a garage or two. But I still found time to play Monopoly for a few hours with my sister and friends. 

My point is this. We had to use our imaginations now and then. We were creative and had to be! But we were never bored. Chores and odd jobs rounded out our summer and no one had to plan activities for us. And believe it or not we survived. 

Friends, don't be afraid to have a kid earn some money. Don't shy away from giving them some chores to do. Know what activities they are venturing into, but filling their day with planned activities stymies their minds. 

Those who sow laziness reap nothing!

Have a great day!

Marty

Elements Of An Apology 6/21/2023

 Good Morning,

The day began very early and I am happy to be drinking a hot mug of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee. It is time to write.

Every now and then my nephew Nick and I will get into some serious discussions. I know the fact that we can discuss other things besides, hunting, fishing and dogs comes as a surprise to many. But now and then we even surprise ourselves with the depth and intensity we can achieve when diving into the deep end of thoughts. 

We were discussing a myriad of subjects the other day and we took a shot at what an apology should consist of. The discussion left me wanting to dive in a little deeper.

I am taking a shot at what I believe should be the 6 elements to an apology. 

1. Apologies are Biblical. Matthew 5:23-24 So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother and then come and offer your gift.

2. Sincerity and honesty must be present in and apology. Or it is just a bag of hot air. 

3. Offer an explanation for your behavior, but remember it is not an excuse for your behavior.

4. Express regret, sorrow and remorse in your apology. 

5. Agree to make changes in your behavior in the future. The best apology is true lasting change.

6. Request forgiveness from the other person. Don't be offended if it is not granted. True change is measured and is often required before forgiveness is granted.

If you are reading this and you owe someone an apology don't wait for the perfect time. The perfect time is now.

Have a great day!

Marty

All Grown Up. 6/20/2023

 Good Morning,

This day began with prayer and a hot cup of Door County Cream Coffee. I think I will take a road cup with me this morning. 

Colossians 1:10 So as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him: Bearing fruit in every good work, and increasing in knowledge of God. 

Last night I was grilling some chicken and listening to the radio. My wife Rene met me out at the picnic table and we sat outside until dark. The weather was perfect, the music superb, and it was a perfect night. 

While we were chatting at the picnic table Rene mentioned that our youngest nephew is having a birthday today. It made me take a walk down memory lane and how he was kind of a runt as a small boy, but he always had a smile on his face. Rene and I used to go and watch him play football in high school and it soon became our Friday night thing. A trip with him, his brother and my brother to a burger joint after the game is something I still like to do. 

I recall taking a trip with him to Michigan and he thought he owned the stereo in my truck. I had to listen to some gal named Lizzy McGuire  for five solid hours. During those five hours he played with a football in the front seat. He adjusted his hands and would spin the football up and catch it. Then he asked me if I wanted to play catch. I suggested that it would not be wise to drive and play catch. So to satisfy the little boy, I pulled over to the side of the road and took the football and said to him " Go out for a pass." He took off and after 15 yards he turned around and I yelled "Go Deep, deeper!!!" That's when I jumped back into the running truck and started to pull away. His eyes were as big a plates as he thought he might be left there. In all reality there is no way I could leave the little dude. But today I am celebrating his birthday and am happy to say the boy has turned out to be a kind, hard working, considerate man and husband. I will challenge him today, to keep that smile and stay just the way God made him. Someday I will write about him and his brother eating steak and eggs as very young boys. But whoa to the waitress, who didn't serve us on time.

Happy Birthday Matt. 

Uncle Marty

Caught In A Snare 6/19/2023

 Good Morning,

My mug was just filled with Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee and I say "Let this week begin." 

When I pray, I try my best to align my prayers with the will of God. I had someone ask me if I believe that Satan blocks our prayers. The answer to that question is no. Only we can do that by self-defeating doubt and unrepentant sinful lifestyles. James 1-5-8 teaches that faithless prayers are powerless and ineffective.

James 1:5-8 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. 7. That persons should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8. Such a person is double minded and unstable in all they do.

Peter teaches us that a husbands prayers will be hindered if they mistreat their wives. 

1 Peter 3:7 Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers be not hindered. 

Proverbs 6:2 You are snared by the words of your mouth; You are taken by the words of your mouth.  

So what am I saying? #1. Prayers not being answered? Check for unrepentant sin in your life. #2. Where are you on the doubt meter? #3. Be careful what you wish for and pray for. Be very careful!

Marty

Dad's Job Description 6/18/2023

 Good Morning,

The day began with a hot cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee and a smile.

Today in America we celebrate Fathers Day. I wish all you fathers around the world a happy Fathers Day. I was listening to a sermon many, many years ago from an old Baptist preacher. I made notes on that one and the sermon is still fresh in my brain. 

It was said that day, "God has a job description for a man /dad." The preacher asked us to turn to the book of;

Deuteronomy chapter 6:5-9  5.You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. 6. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. 8. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. 

Dad's, in this job description it is your responsibility to keep your walk with God wholesome and pure. Then the responsibility for raising the children in a life of faith is clearly spelled out as belonging to Dad. This is a shift from what we have seen now, and in the past, where it is a role assigned to mom.

Yes it is important to provide for the family, and protect them. It is equally, if not more important for Dad to be leading in the faith of the family. Fellas, it is time to step up and take the lead in building  the faith of each family member. 

Food for thought!

Marty

What A Night It Was 6/17/2023

 Good Morning.

The day began with a hot cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee and a smile. It is time to write.

Last night we held our annual Men's Steak Feed at our church and as expected it was well attended. For me it is always a reunion time with old friends and a time to meet some new people. It is the type of reunion that you look forward to, not one of those, "I have to go to" types. I look forward  to it. The work to pull it off is hard and tiring. Cleaning up is a chore and a half. We were blessed to have four ladies from our church come and wash the many dishes and utensils that were used. Thanks Ladies!

Back to my thought on seeing old friends. Many of the attendees are there to dine with their friends and are there through invitations from others. So for some of these guys, I only get to see once a year. But never do I get tired "catching up" a little. This reunion I believe is just a taste of what a greater reunion I will experience some day. 

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. 14. For since we believe Jesus died, and rose again, even so, through Jesus Christ, God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep. 15. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16.For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel and with a sound from the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ shall rise first. 17. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. 18. Therefore one another with these words. 

It was a great night yesterday and what a great day we have to look forward to. 

Have a blessed day!

Marty

A Few To Thank. 6/16/2023

 Good Morning,

It is very early and I am glad to be able to write while sipping on a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee. Let's get started.

Proverbs 15:29 The Lord is far from the wicked. But He hears the prayers of the righteous man. 

Tonight our church Men's Ministry will be holding it's annual Men's Steak Feed. This event is always well attended and is a great time. The work of setting it up, having it, and then the clean up is plainly stated "One Heavy Chore." We have a small band of men and a few of the ladies who work together to pull this off. 

The results of the steak feed the last 22 years have been phenomenal. Not once has it been rained out. Covid put a stop to one year, but the steak feed was one of the first events that took place when restrictions were lifted. 

So today I say thank you to those few who bust their butts to feed so many. They are a true blessing from God. Without them the dream I once had of a Men's Steak Event would be just that. A dream! 

Anytime you can draw in some men and their boys, feed them up good and have them listen to a challenge from a speaker, you have accomplished a great thing for the Kingdom of God.  

My point is this.  Share your dreams and see if anyone thinks that you have a good idea. Once a few people agree and pray, watch the bricks fall into a pattern of unity. God blesses the work of a righteous idea. 

Have a great day!!!

Marty

We Are Known By Our Actions 6/15/2023

 Good Morning,

Today will begin with prayer and after a good night of sleep I am ready to face the day. I will be drinking a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee and munching on a biscuit as I write.

It is like this. Do something wrong and sooner or later everyone knows about it. And being Godly men and women we endure the consequences and grow through the experience. Then there comes another time, when we have the ability to do good by someone and we don't. God has a little bit to say about the sin of omission.

James 4:17 If anyone, then, knows the good they out to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them.

Don't forget that God has placed us on this earth to do good. Ignoring the opportunity to do good for others when it falls upon you to do so, is wrong. 

Have a great day. It is a good day to do good!

Marty

We All Have Something In Common 6/14/2023

 Good Morning,

I just poured a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee and now it is time to write. 

No matter what we think, we all have something in common. This might be hard to swallow for those who have lots of things. It is a fact that whatever we have, we received it. Whether you have much or a little. You did not accomplish anything on your own. It was God who decided to give you what you have. It could be objects or accomplishments. God gave it to you. So don't break your arm patting yourself on the back or chap your lips tooting your horn. But be humble and thankful in all things. Use the blessings God gave you to make Him proud, not to make yourself look good. 

1 Corinthians 4:7 For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? and if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you did not. 

This verse should strike a chord with us and cause us to be humble or pray for humility.

Genesis 9:3 Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you. And as I gave you the green plants, I give you everything. 

I plan on eating a ribeye steak this weekend. Only God could provide a tasty slab like that. I did nothing to obtain it. Even my job is a gift from God. God gave me the plate, knife and fork and the wood fire.

Think it through my friends. 

Marty

Never A Shortage Of Opinions 6/13/2023

 Good Morning,

My day began with prayer and a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee. It is time to write.

Do you know what hurts more than a hot branding iron on your butt? An unsolicited opinion can be a scorcher. Friends, an opinion given with the best intentions can often rub the receiver in such away that their blistered ego never heals. 

Proverbs 18:2 A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion. 

For instance some projects one takes on, might not have the desired result that was hoped for. Then, comes along Mr. or Mrs. Good Intention who says. "Here is what you should have done" or worse yet "You should have done this." This is even more painful when the new found instructor is telling you to try something that they have never tried before, but you have, and you know it doesn't work. Some folks are so filled with opinions that they can't help but spout off. They are like a pizza filled stomach which can't wait to relieve gas. Like an air biscuit stinks so does their opinions. 

There are good ways to present an idea to a struggling friend. Ask first. How about trying this? "I have an idea, would you like for me to share it with you?" Or, "Is there anything I can do to help"? You might receive an invitation to share your thoughts. Being there and being an obnoxious busy body are two different things. 

Be there to help, but don't be someone who insults while helping. 

Food for thought!

Marty

What To Wear? 6/12/2023

 Good Morning,

I just sat down to write and I am accompanied by a hot mug of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee and two English Springer Spaniels.

My message for today will be very short. Every day we have to make a choice as to what we will wear for clothing. I am here to say that before we dress in whatever fits your mood or style preference, choose to clothe your heart and soul first. 

1Peter 3:4 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as hairstyles, and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. 4. Rather it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.

Any clothing worn by someone does not make the person. You can be wearing an expensive suit and if while approaching another person and they want to throw up after seeing you or they run the other way, you haven't dressed your heart and demeanor. 

So today "wear the blue shirt," but before you do, make sure to dress your heart with kindness, patience, forgiveness, peace, harmony, and generosity. 

Have a great day!

Marty

I'M A Gonna! 6/11/2023

 Good Morning,

We have a light rain falling this morning and the temperature is a little cold right now in our part of the world. Therefore my cup of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee is performing double duty, waking me up and warming me up. 

Today I will attempt to set a few folks straight as they drink their coffee and ponder their actions for today. A lot of people wake up from a night of sleep and are still tired. Some people are so tired from running their own lives and running the lives of others that they are often so tired that the day ahead is blurred by self induced management meetings to rearrange or pursue plans that aren't working out. 

A fella recently laid out his plan for his life once more. I emphasize "once more". This guy has had more 'life plans" than Ace Hardware has nuts and bolts. Nothing ever seems to work out for him. When he told me about his latest life adventure I asked him, "What does God want you to do? He gave me that look I see from our dogs when they tilt their heads and give me that sense that we are not on the same page. 

He proceeded to say "I'm going to do this" and ignored my question completely. I stuck with my thoughts and said "wouldn't you want to know what God thinks of your plan and if He even likes this one at all? Why don't you pray, fast and and ask God for His plan?" That's when I received  the answer I was dreading. "I believe that this is my decision to make and I will make it and have to live with any consequences. I really can't go wrong with this one." 

Here is where this fella went wrong. He is always very tired because he has to continually be planning his next move in life. To simply finish this thought, he has made himself into his own little God. He has promoted himself, while making God small in his life. He has demeaned the greatness and awesomeness of God while living the lifestyle of "I'm A Gonna"! He has forgotten one statement from Scripture that we read but forget to live it. 

Isaiah 55:8-9 "For My thoughts are not your thoughts. Nor are your ways My ways," says the Lord.  9. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 

Are you tired from running the world? Are you weighing in on the plans of others while you are not listening to God for your own life's plan? If your life resume looks like a tickertape instead of a life that is on target, it might be time to accept God's plan and ask Him for His advice, Then follow it!!

Have a blessed day!

Marty

One More Time 6/10/2023

 Good Morning,

The sun is coming up through the haze and I have two dogs at my feet while I write this morning. The haze is caused by wild fires in Canada and it is not as bad here as it is elsewhere in the United States. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee which I am truly enjoying. 

On Monday I will be assisting in performing a funeral for a dear friend. Our Senior Pastor and I will work together in honoring the life of a saint that has gone on to heaven. In the last couple of years our friend has been in an assisted living center. When I would call on him he would always want to know what I had been up to. He seemed to find my escapades and adventures entertaining. I have been attempting to make butter from scratch for many years and whenever I would attempt to make a new batch, something was always wrong with it. Each attempt has been a complete and utter failure. I once described my butter attempt as a batch that would best be used as motor oil. My friend and I laughed about that for a long time. He would often tell me that I should bottle my butter and sell it as multipurpose oil. 

The joke about my butter was always funny to the two of us. But my old friend would always say to me, " don't give up, give it another try." Never once did he say a discouraging word. He offered encouragement instead of shaming me. He was always the one to say "One more time might do it." In his loving way he also taught me to laugh at my mistakes. I had one batch that could easily be poured out instead of cut with a knife. My friend said to me that I was going to be rich for saving energy. I asked how that could be. He replied," Most people like to butter their popcorn and they have to melt the butter. Yours can be poured on to the popcorn without heating it." Again we laughed at my adventure into the butter business. 

Micah 7:8 Though I fall, I will rise again. 

I am struggling right now with what to say and do on Monday. I am thinking that emotions will run high within me and I might not be able to be much more than a blubbering idiot. I am sure if my friend could speak he would say something like "You can do it and just give it your best. It can't be any worse than your butter."!!!

Friends, be an encourager and offer a push along to those who need it. Their next attempt at something just might be the one that succeeds. Those who quit will never experience a win and now and then it is important to win one. So be that push in the back that sets them on a run to the finish line. You really can't fail if you don't quit. 

God bless,

Marty

A Secret To Success In Marriage 6/9/2023

 Good Morning, 

I am excited to take in the aroma of some Door County Highlander Grog Coffee as it travels from the kitchen to my den. It is time to write. 

As you get older, people assume you are now full of wisdom! I must have missed the wisdom train when it traveled to me. I had a young man ask me a question about marriage. I did not have the answer he was looking for. He was looking for something filled with wisdom and note worthy, he asked me if there was a secret I could share on having a successful marriage. I think his feelings were hurt when I laughed out loud at the question.

I told him to just figure out that when he and his wife disagree, just assume that he is wrong. But in all honesty, two people should admit right from the start that neither one of them is perfect. Being not perfect also means that each person in the marital union will make a mistake or say something they shouldn't. The wise spouse knows that their marriage is a gift from God and no one should let their spouse go to bed without being forgiven for a mistake that was made. 

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as Christ Jesus forgave you.

The secret to being happily married, is choose to be happy and treat your spouse with dignity, respect and forgiveness. 

If I could bottle this theory and sell it, I would certainly do so!

Have a great day. 

Marty

On Guard 6-8-2023

 Good Morning,

This day began awhile ago and It is going to be a long one for sure. I just poured at hot cup of Door County Pecan Scones and now it is time to write.

Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. 

Our hearts can hold on to a lot of things and not all of the things we hold within are God fearing and righteous. Things such as anger, hatred greed, dishonesty, pride, jealousy, mean speech, and ego often find their way into our hearts. With the seed of evil living within us, these poor self attributes stored away in side our hearts often show their ugly heads during or daily interactions. They surface just about anytime and they show people just what is inside polluting your heart and actions.

It's like trying to have a green luscious lawn next to a weed field. Sooner or later the weeds sneak in and start growing and ruining the lawn. Subtlety they gather and then spread. Just lie things of the heart. A heart full of "nasty" eventually gets choked off from being able to interact civilly and becomes a source of angst to many.

Lesson for today, Guard your hearts. Keep them clean with Scripture reading, worship and prayer. Take stock today and see what evil lies within. 

Have a great day!

marty

Waiting For The Tomatoes To Start Blossoming 6/7/2023

 Good Morning,

A long day is ahead of me and I am looking forward to getting started and going home for a burger tonight. My travel mug was filled with Door County Pretzel Toffee Coffee and it is time to write. 

Ecclesiastes 11:1-2 Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it in many days. Give a portion to seven, even to eight for you know not what disaster may happen on earth.

A couple of weeks ago I transplanted the tomato plants from their pots inside the house to the garden out back. They are doing well and have yet to blossom. It will be happening by the end of the month and before long we should have some tomatoes to eat and save for the winter. There is nothing like a fresh tomato and a little salt  to snack on, especially those home grown ones. Our garden has gotten smaller over the last couple of years and besides some onions, garlic, peppers and spaghetti squash it isn't the big plot that it used to be. My wife and I do a good job of preserving the veggies for the winter and we enjoy the fruits of our labor until the new batch comes along in the next summer. 

What is my point for the day? Well, we had the room on our property to have a vegetable garden, we were given some free seeds and except for the sweat equity of preparing the soil and some occasional watering it really was no expense and not much work to take advantage of the sunshine, soil, and rain. It doesn't hurt to store up some extra food. But make sure to share the bounty with those less fortunate. If you are making pasta sauce to can, share a bottle with someone else or better yet have that someone else over for dinner. God's blessings are meant to be shared.

It feels good to share and it is a great way to show others some love.

Marty  

Think Twice Before You Run To The Whiskey 6/6/2023

 Good Morning,

I just poured a hot cup of Door County Pretzel Toffee Coffee and it is time to write. 

This is a sensitive subject and one that I have experience in. I will go straight to the point and just say what has to be said. I was listening to a young man last week as he discussed his recent divorce. I quote "I had a wife. She drove me to drink. That's all I can thank her for." My heart breaks for this guy. 

There can be many reasons in a lifetime that would cause all of us to want to forget, heal, forgive, or just plain old want to move on. I can tell you from experience that the whiskey bottle never helps anyone to accomplish anything. The feeling of being numb to emotions is only a temporary solution that just doesn't work in the long run. Once alcoholism sets in, brain cells are lost, jobs can disappear, the will to live escapes us, and fortunes are lost at the bar or at home. Relationships that might be able to be restored are made worse by having to deal with a drunk. Promises made, aren't kept and before too long you just don't care. This is when the bottle controls you not you controlling the bottle. 

John 10:10 the thief comes to only to steal and kill. I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly. 

Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in You.

There comes a time in the life of the hurting and confused, that a choice has to be made. The path of slippery whiskey or the path that leads to a life renewed by Christ.. My recommendation is think twice before turning to the bottle, it only makes things worse. Jesus Christ is the only answer that will never let you down. 

Marty 

Enjoy Some Innocence 6/5/2023

 Good Morning,

It is Monday and I am headed back into work. I will have a hot cup of door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee with me as I drive.

Psalm 42:1 As the deer pants for the water, so my souls longs after You.

A friend of mine was able to photograph a baby deer on their property not long ago. I decided to share it today with all of you. 

I look at this little miracle and I see a fawn who for now is totally dependent on it's mother for food, safety, and guidance. Although there are many dangers to worry about, it's only concern now is where is Mom? She is the fawn's whole world. The photo shows some beautiful foliage, sunshine and the innocence of a spotted fawn. 

There is a lot of beauty and innocence still in this world for us to see. One look at this and I can see God in nature and how He shows us himself with times like this. 

Take some time this week and let God put the word AWE back on your lips. Open your eyes as you walk and be amazed at what you can see. Enjoy some innocence. 

Marty

Keep The Train On The Tracks. 6/4/2023

 Good Morning, 

I am looking forward to today and I am embracing it with a hot cup of Door County Cream Coffee and all the gusto I can rally up. 

Matthew 4:4 But He answered,  "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but every word that comes from the mouth of God.

2Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. 

I will be out on the road later to watch our youngest dog Leo compete in another hunt test. What makes this day a little more special is that Leo will be coming home with me. He has been away for a month getting some of the finer points of hunting honed into his bag of talents. We have missed the bundle of energy and things have been pretty quiet without him. Our older dog Gibbs just goes through the motions of life now, content with sleeping more and more. Leo has done very well in competition but it is time to come home. 

My point for the day is this. If I don't keep up with the training every day Leo could slip back into some bad habits or develop a desire to always take a short cut or the easy road. It is important to keep building on what he has learned. Practice makes perfect. 

Friends I also find that I need to keep myself sharp and on the right track. There are times when I binge on my Christianity and can't get enough of God's word in my life. But then I tend to find times to slack off and get lazy. Once that happens my train derails and I find myself forgetting what I learned. Once you forget what you have learned, and think "I will train harder tomorrow," you are headed to failure. Each day should have time carved out for reading your Bible and prayer time. Think on it this way. We tend to try and eat three meals a day. That would be 21 meals in one week. Would you eat all 21 on one day and try to coast through the week that way?  No you wouldn't . A steady diet is the best diet. 

God Bless, 

Marty

Wedding Day And A Graduation 6/3/2023

 Good Morning.

It feels good to be sitting in the den with the window open and listening to my part of the world wake up. The song birds are active this morning and making music already. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Cream Coffee and I must admit it is going down smooth like silk on a polished table. 

1 Timothy 2:1 First of all, then, I urge the supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for all people. 

My wife Rene and I have a busy schedule today today and it is the kind of busy we like. We are attending a graduation celebration for one of the young men who lives across the street from us. Then shortly after that we will be attending the wedding of a young couple from our church. In both instances they have plans for the future. Our young buddy across the street will be attending college in the fall and headed toward a career path of his choice. The young couple will be stepping into marriage and missionary training. If I were to assess the three of them I would call them solid. From what I have witnessed of them they seem ready and willing to take on this old world.

I am a typical guy when it comes to weddings and graduations. I know we will be bringing a gift to both occasions today. How do I know this? My wife told me we are. Ask me what they are and I will just smile and say it it's a surprise. I am sure she told me what they are somewhere along the line but as with most guys I forgot or wasn't listening. 

I do know this however. All three of those kids just jumped into the world of unknowns. I can tell you this, all three were prayed for this morning and I will commit to praying for them on a weekly basis and whenever God  brings them to my feeble mind. They are on my calendar for the next year. 

So my friends, you might find yourself in my shoes as well. Give a gift that they can see and that is great. Also give the gift of prayer. And the answer to your prayer might even surprise you. 

God bless,

Marty

Come On Buddy! 6/2/2023

 Good Morning, 

I need to be on the road very early and I will be having my first cup of Door County Blueberry Coffee from inside of my truck. 

I will be traveling a little north of our home today about 1.5 hours to cheer on our youngest dog Leo as he competes in a hunt test. He will be running in hunt tests today and for the next two days. Leo was a little slow as a puppy to grasp the excitement of hunting and retrieving birds. My wife describes Leo as easy going, and the house clown. Our older dog Gibbs is intense when he hunts and is all business. But just in the last year and a half Leo has turned on the switch and he has gotten real serious about his craft. Sometimes you wonder if you can take a dog who carries his dinner bowl around after he finishes eating seriously. 

So today as I watch him compete for a ribbon, I will be proud of him and I will be pulling for him with the same type of intensity as Leo has. 

Now what is my goal for today, in my writing. Both dogs are part of our home and family. We are blessed to be pet owners. We feed them, play with them, heal their wounds, and enjoy them. We made a commitment when we decided to bring them home as puppies. We promised to take care of them and raise them up and let them know they are special to us. They were born to hunt and they both are great partners to me. 

God has two statements in Scripture which shapes my thinking about animals as pets and our responsibilities.

Proverbs 12:10 Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast, but the mercy of the wicked is cruel. 

Proverbs 27:23 Know well the condition of your flocks. 

So today as you might be deciding to bring home a pet, remember they are like a marriage. If it is tough going you just can't quit and send them off to live elsewhere. Decide to spend their life with them and mean it. They brighten your world and you are their whole world!

God bless,

Marty

Sending A request To God On Your Behalf 6/1/2023

 Good Morning,

My cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee is steaming next to me and it is time to write. 

I do believe in the power of prayer and that God hears all of our prayers. So today I want to ask Him for something that involves all who will read this. I have prayed and asked for God to bless all of you as only He can do. He knows your needs, wants and desires. 

Numbers 6:24-26 

The Lord bless you and keep you;

The Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you.

The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. 

I pray that as you trod this earth today you will find time to spend an hour with God. We may never meet, but you are loved and I consider it a privilege to be able to pray for you.

Have a great day!

Marty