It Makes Sense To Me 11/30/2023

 Good Morning,

I am heading out early once more this week and I am embracing a hot mug of Door County Country Morning Blend Coffee. It is time to write. 

Photo Credit https://minnesotasnewcountry.com/

In just about every home there is a drawer or closet filled with junk. My wife Rene and I have a drawer in the kitchen known as the "junk drawer". Pens,  pencils, thumb tacks, nails, screws, flashlights, string, batteries, measuring tapes, small tools, paper clips, tape, glue and many other assorted items. We do from time to time go into that drawer and look for different things. It is a chore to find anything in that drawer. Rene straightens it out twice a year, but no matter what she does it is still a drawer filled with things I can't find in a hurry.

So, not long ago I mentioned the idea to organize our junk receptacle and we tried, but once it was organized we could not get all the junk to fit back in the drawer. So then we purged some stuff and wouldn't you know, the next item I needed had been thrown away in the purge. I do believe we need to resolve the clutter in the drawer so it makes sense to us and we will be more organized. 

Sometimes our lives get cluttered with too many things to do or handle at one time. It's then that we need to call a time out and purge things that are just weighing us down and holding us hostage. In other words we need to organize by importance and if needed, step away from those things that could actually be harmful and cause us to lose sleep for no good reason. 

1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not a God of confusion but of peace as in all the churches of the saints. 

Organize and purge if needed.

Marty

Middle Of The Week 11/29/2023

 Good Morning,

I just sat down with a hot cup of Door County Country Morning Blend Coffee and it is time to write. 

Today is Wednesday and I refer to it as the "Middle Of The Week" . Just a few more days and it will be the weekend once more. But we must make it to Friday and for me it has been a busy week. More than busy. 

So there is an urge or desire to slack off a little and not push it too hard. I know I started this week with gusto but it seems like I am already running out of energy, desire, and drive. 

So let's pray for one another. We all know someone else who is tired, worn and weary. It could be health issues, worries, and just plain old being tired. Pray and intercede for those you know who are burning the candle on both ends and need to keep going.

Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.

If you are reading this, you were prayed for. Keep moving forward. 

Marty

Priorities Please 11/28/2023

 Good Morning,

I am off to work very early this morning. I have a tough week ahead. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Toasted Praline Coffee and it is time to write. 

I want to start this Tuesday with a thought or two about priorities. The number one priority for all should be  walking with God in our own personal life. That relationship needs to be strong and unobstructed by anything. Excuses are not to be tolerated. 

Deuteronomy 5:33 You shall walk in the way that the Lord your God has commanded you, that you may live, and that it may go well with you, and that you shall live long in the land that you shall possess. 

The second priority is to have a healthy relationship with our families and our spouses. This takes time and is not something done very easily. Time is an investment for contentment and joy.

Note that both priorities take time and effort. If one of them is shortened of effort and commitment, you will see that the other is in failure mode as well. They go hand in hand. If the personal walk with God is not where it needs to be, and kept holy, there is no chance that the other relationships. won't fail as well. Sooner or later the ugliness of the world and our own ambitions will ruin the family love and functionality. 

Colossians 2:6 Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him. 

Let's make these two priorities a "must do" set of things to take into the last month of the year and hopefully they can be carried over into 2024.

Marty

Faith Fit Test 11/27/2023

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Maple Coffee and it is time to write. 

Come January 1st, many people vow to get back into shape and they start off slowly, working off a few pounds and adding a wholesome diet to their daily routine. It makes us wonder why we just don't do that all year long and why do we wait for the first of the year to start anew.

Today I want to look in a different direction and say this. Maybe we should examine our walk of faith with God and see if there is anything we could improve. A simple test is to assess yourself against Scripture.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control. Against such there is no law.

1. Love, do we love others unconditionally? Is our love for God number one in our lives?

2. Joy, is the joy of our love for God visible to others. Do we exhibit joy for the supplies God gives us? 

3. Longsuffering, do we quit too easily or are we there for the long haul? Do we place conditions on our faith? Do we barter with God?

4. Kindness, Can kindness be seen in our actions when people are present and when no one is there to give us credit and acknowledge our kindness? 

5. Goodness, do we practice being good and actually produce goodness in bad situations?

6. Faithfulness, are we faithful to our spouses, families, employers and our church? Our we faithful to God or is He just there when we need something?  Can we be counted on?

7. Gentleness, do we handle others folks emotions with gentleness? Are we one who builds up others one brick at a time or are we impatient? 

8. Self control. How is our ability to say no to temptation? How long does it take you to go from angry to ballistic?

Take the test my friends. Adjust where necessary and prepare yourself for the best Christmas ever.

Marty

There Is A Time To Share Traditions 11/26/2023

 Good Morning,

I am sitting at my desk drinking some Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee and it is time to write. 

Yesterday our daughter called and was inquiring about making a big pot of chili. She had Googled a recipe and was well on her way to making it, when she had a few questions about onions and such. It then dawned on me that my own kid did not have my chili recipe. My recipe is a version of the one my grandmother made. Over the years I have changed a couple of things and my version has actually won a couple chili cookoffs. Now I have tasted the chili other folks make and some are really good. I have enjoyed and consumed many bowls of chili in this lifetime of mine. 

2 Thessalonians 2:14-15 To this he called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15. So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions, that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter. 

Here is my point. Just like money and possessions can't be taken with you when you die neither can a recipe. It is a good idea to pass on to others the things you know and share the secret recipes before they wonder, "Now how did he or she make that". I wrote about this a few days ago also. 

I have a few guns and they are all labeled as to who gets them when I am no longer here. But each label has a story as to what I did with that particular gun or how I came to own it. Family history is a big part of things that need to be shared. 

The one most important thing I hope to pass on to those who I leave behind is this. My faith in God is number one and my love for Him. I want them to know of my belief in the power of prayer. My love for family comes second behind my love for God. That might hurt some feelings. But, my love for God has taught me how to love my family. God created the family and when we obey His commands and teachings on family we show our love and respect for God. In turn God shows us how to love others as He loves us. 

So, think it through. I don't make as much chili as I used to. It is time to pass on one of my kettles to our daughter. It was one that belonged to my great grandmother. I already sent the recipe. 

Love to all. 

Marty 

Out, And In The Cold 11/25/2023

 Good Morning,

I am out along the riverbank this morning doing a little duck hunting. I have an insulated bottle filled with Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee to keep me warm and I am in good company with a nephew and our dog Leo. It is time to write.

Luke 3:11 Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do the same. 

I apologize for not getting out a blog yesterday. I took a break to enjoy some time with friends and gather some thoughts. 

Duck hunting in Wisconsin is usually the best in the last two weeks of the season. That brings us to hunting in colder weather. Being prepared and dressed for the cold is a must. Playing with the cold is not advisable. Taking on the cold with the right equipment and clothing is the way to do it. I hunted the other day with 3 friends. One of my compadres took a minor dip in the water. Spare gloves were offered and whatever we had that could be shared was offered. 

My point for the day is this. If you see someone in the cold and you can help with a blanket or a coat, do so. If you can spare a cup of coffee to warm someone up, do so. If a pot of soup is needed on a cold day and you can help, do so. 

My second point for this day is this. If you need to travel in the cold, don't be fashionable. Be warm! Be wise, make sure your automobile is ready for the cold. Carry a shovel inside the truck or car, not just for you, but to help someone else stuck in the snow. Gloves, hand warmers and a bottle of water can make the difference in a cold lonely ditch. 

Be kind. Help others, and use the common sense your mother taught you.

Marty

Be Grateful For Yourself 11/23/2023

 Good Morning,

The oven is filled with a ham that is baking already. The aroma of cloves is filling the house. I have with me our two dogs Leo and Gibbs and a hot cup of Door County Cherry Creme Coffee  and I am ready to write. 

Psalm 139:13-16 For you formed my inward parts; You knitted me together in my mother's womb. 14. I will praise You. For I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. 15. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. 16. Your eye's saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet, there was none of them. 

Today in America we are observing or you could say celebrating Thanksgiving Day. It is set aside each year as time to be thankful. There will be the opportunity to be thankful for family and friends, jobs, homes, food, health and all sorts of reasons to be thankful. We thank God for Jesus, His Son and how He blessed us with Him and His plan to save souls for eternity. This is the number one reason to be grateful. 

These are all noble things to be thankful for and I cannot dispute them at all. My challenge for the day is for all who read this is to be humbly grateful for yourself. Usually you are on the list of others who are grateful for you. Have you ever considered a world without you ever being in it. Your family wouldn't exist. Or there would be one less at the table. You were made by God and you are a blessing to others. If, in your life you only performed one nice gesture for someone, it would not have happened if you weren't here. You were made to be you and there is none other like you. So thank God for creating you. You make a difference.   Be thankful for you. I know I am glad to be here!

God bless,

Marty

Never The Right Words 11/22/2023

 Good Morning,

I am at my desk drinking a large and very hot cup of Door County German Chocolate Coffee and I think it is time to write. 

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

I received a message early this morning that our friend and fellow church member had passed away. She suffered for years and incurred intense pain with dignity and grace. When her husband messaged me and I called him. I struggled with the correct and best thing to say. At times like these the words that come forth are always hard to find. There never seems that the right words are even enough.

But I do know this. Our friend was ready to go. Her faith in Jesus Christ as her Lord and her Savior carried her to heaven. She is healed now and is not in pain. Her husband of course is resting in his faith, yet he mourns her loss. Her husband and I had a time of prayer this morning and now the coffee is bittersweet. I rejoice in her homecoming, yet I feel for her husband. So as I ponder this day and what I can glean from this, I say to you all, hug your loved ones. Tell them you love them. Look them in the eye and be grateful for them. A look in the eye and those three little words "I love you" are never the wrong words, but are always the right words. 

God bless,

Marty 

The Fire In Your Eyes 11/21/2023

 Good Morning.

The day began with a hot mug of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee and it is time to write.

I need to keep it short today due to a work assignment. I will be headed out soon to perform my job for the day. When a person gets overly angry you can almost see fire in there eyes. They are heated up and ready to boil over at any moment. Without them even saying a word, their face gives it away. Their eyes are in support of the mood. 

On the other hand, and a good thing are those who are experiencing God on a daily basis and their relationship has them with fire in their eyes. The fire of love, respect, kindness, patience, and the assurance of heaven. Mention God and they light up just at the sound of His name. You find yourself wanting to be around them as they are fire for God.

The question you must ask yourself today is this. Are you on fire? And if so, is it a fire of anger, disappointment, sorrow, pain or just plain old life kicking your butt? God wants to wipe away every tear, every ounce of anger, and disappointment. He desires to be your all in all and be the stimulus of your every moment. Times get tough and God is tougher. You are as close to God as you choose to be. 

Psalm 56:8 You keep track of  all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book. 

Luke 12:7 And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid you are  more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. 

Psalm 34:5 Those who look to Him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.

Feel like you are walking alone? You probably are. God never goes where He is not the first choice, the only choice and the One who waiting to be called into your life in a big way.

Have a blessed day.

Marty

Even The Dog Was Smiling 11/20/23

 Good Morning,

After being away for a few days, it is good to be back home today at my familiar desk drinking a cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee. It is time to write. 

My nephew and I arrived back to our house yesterday afternoon after a few days of duck hunting in Iowa. His dog and my dog were pretty tired from a a few days with very early starts and a long time between meals and rest. 

Proverbs 16:9 The heart of a man plans his way. But the Lord establishes his steps. 

Of course there was the unpacking to do and putting things away in their proper place that needed to be done. On this trip there weren't a lot of ducks at the end of each day. But guns were fired and the dogs retrieved a few mallards. Stories were told in the duck blind, the food was good and the accommodations were 5 star. Just the being there with four guys with a demeanor of team work and support was all a guy could ask for. The laughs were a bonus. 

Now if dogs could talk I sure would like to hear their thoughts. Each day, all those dogs wanted was a little action, and time to be spent with their "dads". A little beef jerky was shared with our furry family members and they were content. 

If dogs are an indicator of love for you, think about the rest of your family and friends. They too want to spend time with you. If at all possible don't turn down invitations for a visit or making it to a Thanksgiving dinner. No one really invites anyone to dinner if they don't desire for them to be there. 

Last night, after all had calmed down our daughter called and we started making plans for Christmas and being together. It warmed my heart to think about it and I prayed that nothing would stop us from gathering with her in December. 

I attached a photo from the duck blind and to me it seems as if my dog was smiling. He knows the value of time spent together. Make plans to share your time and the time of others together. After all the gift of time, family. friends and dogs are given to us by God. Use it to the fullest. 

God bless,

Marty

Thank God For A Good Wife.11-19-23

 Good Morning.

I am still on a duck hunting  in Iowa with Friends and family. Duck hunting has been real slow. There has not been much action as far as hunting goes. But we have had plenty of time to discuss major topics. Four of us are married and we have one single man with us. One subject that we all agreed with is the fact that we are all happy to have a wives that are agreeable people. All of us could speak of guys we know who have a nagging and contentious wives.

We all were in agreement that to have a contentious wife is trouble in overdrive

 So today if you have been blessed with wife who is a true partner, tell her how much you appreciate her. 

Count your blessing and make sure she knows that she is a blessing.

Proverbs 21:9 Better to live on the corner of  a roof,than to live in a house with a quarrelsome woman.

Let your wife know how much you appreciate her. Make her feel special

God bless,

Marty

Working Hard 11/18/2023

 Good Morning,

Saturday arrived and I am still away from home duck hunting with friends and family.

James 4:17. For him who knows to do right and does not do it. To him it is a sin.

Everyone of our hunting team is working hard to make this outing a good one. The dogs are doing their part and our guide is doing his part. The four of us hunters are also working hard  to be attentive and to be patient. Each fella looks after their dog and also watches out for the other dogs. Everyone pitches in to help with chores and carrying things into the field. 

I am in great company and each man takes pride in contributing to the team.

 So whether it be family, work, church, or friendships always do your part and contribute to the betterment of all.

Marty

The Boys Had A Visitor 11/17/2023

 Good Morning,

I find myself in Iowa this morning without the capability to brew some Door County Coffee. So today I will drink whatever our host has for us to brew. I am thankful for that. 

Romans 12:8 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

On Wednesday night my nephew Nick stayed with us so we could get a faster start on our Thursday evening trek to Iowa. Nick is also taking  his young puppy Waylon with us. I will be bringing my youngest dog Leo along for the hunt. Our oldest dog Gibbs will be resting at home and remembering the hunts of old. 

Waylon on the other hand will be along to learn and absorb all that he can while being with three experienced dogs. 

The first lesson Waylon learned was that you just don't mess with the older dog. There was a little growling experienced. But by the next morning the circus of dogs started to become normalized and everyone was getting along. Our two dogs became more hospitable and they all observed boundaries very well. 

My point for today is this. A stranger is just a friend you just haven't made yet. Although at first you don't have much in common. But as a little time goes by you will find that there is always a common ground to be found. Your negative thoughts can be made positive by just getting to know someone. 

If dogs can learn to tolerate a visitor, don't you think as humans we can do better? 

This lesson was brought to you by the three ring circus. Have a great day!

Marty

The Garden Is Going To Sleep Soon. 11/16/2023

 Good Morning,

The house has the aroma of Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee and it is time to write. 

I was preparing a big pot of chili to eat this weekend while I am away on a hunting trip with friends. I was pleased to say that some of the ingredients were from our garden. I canned some tomatoes, harvested the onions and peppers and dried them to use for dishes like this. It is a good feeling to be able to share this with friends and family. 

Jeremiah 29:5 Build houses, and live in them. Plant gardens and eat their produce. 

Last night before it was dark outside I looked at the garden that produced our veggies. It was turned over and fertilized a couple weeks ago. The little veggie patch is resting and will sleep through the winter. It seems a little funny but that time looking over the bare garden caused me to say a prayer of thanks to God for blessing that dirt. I am already looking forward to eating fresh tomatoes and squash once more next summer. I asked God to bless our plot again. I left the back yard content and in awe of what can grow when God blesses the field. 

If you want to see God at work, plant a garden and watch things grow. They come in handy in the winter. 

God bless,

Marty

Don't Write A Check That Can't Be Cashed. 11/15/2023

 Good Morning,

I have a long day ahead of me and I will need my Door County Caramel Apple Coffee to wake me up for sure. 

Matthew 5:41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 

I am always cautious to think things through before I commit myself to be stretched with my time and resources. There is only so much time in one day. There are only so many resources at one's disposal. When we over commit because of our willingness to be kind and helpful, we can easily become weighted down with more than we intended it to be. 

It doesn't take too long for a good thing to become an anchor. To avoid sinking your own ship. Consider your time needed to invest in someone, the resources it might cost and the inconvenience of changes to your own lifestyle. Spell out the the amount available and how much time you can spend investing in others. Know your limits and set them without assuming something was understood.  Never say what you don't mean. But never renege on your word to others. Broken promises are hard to swallow. 

Better to not have promised than to promise and then renege. This often happens in the work setting, when you are one of those who can never say no. This occurs in volunteer situations also. When you can't say no, people will always assume you are ready to say yes. 

My point is this. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Never assume anyone knows your heart and your true intentions. Don't write a time and resource check if you can't cash it. 

God bless you all. 

Marty

Shoes That Keep Walking Back 11/14/2023

 Good Morning,

It is a day that will last a long time. So I am filling a travel insulated bottle with Door County Caramel Apple Coffee and it is time to write. 

Romans 7:15 For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, I do not do. But what I hate, that I do. 

Have you ever wondered if you have purchased boots or shoes that have a mind of their own? You decided that something in your life is not good for you and can easily be classified as wrong, not right, or call it what it is, a sin. You are convicted to do something about it. You swear to God that you are quitting. You tell others of your choice to free your heart from some ugliness and purge your mind of evil thoughts. For awhile, you are on the road of abstinence and life is good.

But just when you think you are free from the soil of sin , those doggone boots turn you around and walk you right back to the cesspool of your life. 

Honestly, we can't blame our footwear for taking us back to issues we thought we left behind us. We can blame ourselves however for not having a plan to succeed. 

The plan should include the following. 

1. Daily prayer aimed at your issues.

2. Scripture is memorized to help you fight off the attack of Satan. He wants you to fail.

3. Accountability to someone who will get on you when you are headed back to your old pattern of behavior. They will tell you what you don't want to hear. 

Without a plan to succeed, most efforts fail, and the consequences are often worse every time you fail.

Get rid of those shoes that walk you right back to sin.

Marty

Hang In There.11/13/2023

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a quick cup of Door County Bourbon Pecan Pie Coffee and it is time to write. 

Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 

There is a prayer that goes with this passage of Scripture. I thought that I would share it with you.

Dear God, Thank you for the hope and comfort that you provide to us, especially during difficult and painful times. We ask that you give us the strength to persevere and trust in the promise of your future glory. 

Friends, if you have trusted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior this is a gentle reminder that the best is yet to come to you for eternity. If you have not called upon Jesus for your salvation and assurance of heaven, do so today. Reach out and call upon the name of the Lord. 

Let go and let God.

Marty

A Quiet Sunday Morning 11/12/2023

 Good Morning,

I just sat down to write. My mug is filled with Door County Bourbon Pecan Pie Coffee and all is well this morning in our home.

Our church has a Saturday night service. My wife and I both attend the evening service and it fits our need to worship with others and serve in our church. 

Then comes Sunday mornings. I find that it is the best day of the week for my quiet time with the Lord. I am hardly ever rushed  to complete my blog and get anywhere. Many days have been experienced writing my blog from the duck boat or blind on a Sunday morning. We usually will have a breakfast that requires a little more work than just adding milk to some cereal. A better than usual meal is prepared for lunch or dinner and there have been many a Sunday that I plan on spending more time with my wife and acknowledging God's gift of her to me.  Some Sundays contain a picnic lunch, eaten at a roadside rest area while we travel to an antique shop. We are both grateful for those quiet Sundays.

It is the only day of the week that I allow myself to listen to some soft music as I write and dine on the Word of God. I have more time to pray and consider things of life. Many of you were prayed for on these quiet Sunday mornings. God made the Sabbath. It is a day of rest and a time to reflect on God. I also believe that God truly made the Sabbath for us.  He allows us to make it holy by observing it in His name. 

Mark 2:27 And He said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.

So take time to observe the Sundays of your life. Keep God first on every Sunday. Allow Him the time to soften and speak to your heart. Enjoy this gift and cherish the time. This time was made for you. You are a close to God as you choose to be. 

Marty

Thank You For Your Service 11/11/2023

 Good Morning,

No coffee for me this morning. I have somewhere to be and I am somewhat in a hurry. I will double up on the coffee tomorrow morning. 

Today in the United States we are observing Veterans Day I personally want to say thank you to those who wrote the check that had them give their time to serve a grateful nation. They paid a price for their commitment, in time, sweat, and many times with blood. Some paid for our safety and freedom with the ultimate sacrifice of their life.

John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

My dad always observed Veterans Day with a passion. He felt that there wasn't enough information being taught in the schools or in the media as to what a veteran is, what they do, and what they did. It was a lesson that me and my siblings were taught from little on. With that lesson we were taught to respect the flag and our nation as well. 

I am proud of my Dad and that small town he came from where they still honor the veterans, the flag and our nation. 

Marty

Anger That Eats Up Our Insides 11/10/2023

 Good Morning.

It is a good day to be sitting at the desk, sipping on a hot cup of Door County Toasted Praline Coffee and I am ready to write. 

There is a lot of literature written about anger. I wasn't surprised to read that the inability to manage anger can have an impact on personal health.

Credit Better Health Channel.

Some of the short and long-term health problems that have been linked to unmanaged anger include.

. Headache

. Digestion problems, such as abdominal pain.

. Insomnia

. Increased anxiety

. Depression

. High Blood Pressure

. Skin problems, such as eczema

. Heart attack

. Stroke

So the negative actions that anger can lead to, such as arguments, fights, murder and destruction of property also can take a toll physically and mentally on our bodies. 

In summarizing my thoughts, it seems that anger is probably not good for so many reasons that it should be avoided like a case of typhoid. 

The only ones that really benefit from unrighteous anger and sin are the pharmaceutical companies.

So if you find that you are "dog tired". It could be the result of growling in anger all the time. 

Remember we are to take care of our bodies. 

Luke 21:34 Watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? 20. For you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

Food For Thought 

God Bless,

Marty

Don't Give In To The Anger 11/9/2023

 Good Morning,

The day for me began about a half an hour ago. I was outside with our dogs while the Door County Toasted Praline Coffee was brewing in the kitchen. 

I want to take some time today to talk about anger. It seems that anger within people is growing out of control. There have been more and more instances of brawls at sporting events between the fans of two opposing teams that I care to count. It seems as if security teams are now doing animal control. Viscous fights are now normal at games. Alcohol and uncontrolled anger seem to fuel these eruptions. tempers just seem ready to boil over and spill their consequences all over. 

Road rage in itself is bad enough, but now it turns into a shoot out. Groups of teens have an issue with one another and out come the guns and at times innocent bystanders are hurt or killed. More and more domestic violence cases are reported each day. The fuel of passion is not a reason to harm someone or to even allow your anger to spill over. Recently, a five year old was beaten to death by two people who said he annoyed them. 

Bullying in schools or in the work place is wrong. Yet the bullied person does just what they have experienced and turns into the bully when they decide to lash out and kill their classmates. 

Anger that is unleashed truly displays to the world the true heart of the person who is lashing out at others.  Respect, dignity, and kindness are tossed out of the realm of being the controlling attributes of a person. Substituted for common sense, this uncontrolled anger just spawns violence and more reprobate hearts. 

In the next two days I will be writing abut anger and I guess that I will not solve anything. But I can vent, pray and maybe it will stop just one person from acting out in anger. A short search produced 100 Bible verses on anger, it's impact and what God thinks about all this uncontrolled anger.

Proverbs 14:29 But whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly.

Psalm 37:8 Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself, it only causes harm. 

Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word sirs up anger.

James 1:20 The anger of a man does not produce the righteousness of God. 

Ecclesiastes 7:9 Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the heart of fools.

Ephesians 4:26 Be angry and do not sin, do not let the sun go down on your anger. 

There is a time and place for anger, but when it causes you to sin you have crossed the line. A line that seems blurred to many. When I wrote about respect, dignity and kindness being gone, they are the result of a heart that does not fear God, respect Him, and does not listen to or obey Him. These attributes, once they are gone, lead to hearts that overflow with anger, and work to pollute the mind and destroy the clear thoughts of people. Disaster and mayhem are soon to follow when the heart does not beat for God. Walk away from anger. It will turn on you and make you miserable. 

More to come tomorrow. All these thoughts on uncontrolled anger ruined my taste for my coffee.

Marty

The Bible Study Was A Cease Fire 11/8/2023

 Good Morning,

I am sitting at our desk in our den listening to the wind. I have next to me a very hot cup of Door County Autumn Spice Coffee and it is time to write. 

Proverbs 27:17-19 As Iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. 18. Whoever keeps the fig tree will eat it's fruit. So he who waits on his master will be honored. 19. As in water, face reflects face, so a mans heart reveals the man. 

Listening to the wind, makes me appreciate a nice warm house even more. What is left of the leaves on the trees are coming down pretty fast right now. Winter is coming. 

Last night I was fortunate enough to be able to attend our weekly Men's Bible Study held in our church. The coffee was hot and the guys were all in a mood to learn and share thoughts and opinions. I originally had planned on not attending. A work event was in the way of me attending. But that changed, and Bible Study was where I needed to be. I usually lead the study but in planning not to be there, I asked one of the guys (Ray) to lead in my absence. Ray stepped in and did a great job in leading and stimulating the discussion. Sitting in a chair and participating was nice. I had some fun and came home most satisfied in my mind, heart and soul. I also learned a few things, which is never a bad outcome. We took prayer requests from the guys and prayed in earnest before leaving for the night. That study, was right where I needed to be. Life has been a little heavy lately and going to the study made me feel like I had just called a cease fire on life and all was quiet on the war front for an hour or so. Taking a break from leading the study and just partaking in it was like Chicken Soup For The Soul. 

Of course when I reached home the cease fire was over and the schedule for the next day lay before me.  I prepared for today and set my aim high and wondered if I had what it takes to finish this work month strong. But for awhile, I was with some good men studying the Good Book and there is where I needed to be. 

Men. it is a good idea to study your Bible with other men. We have a rule. What is prayed for there and said there, stays there. A guy can open up his heart and soul to these guys and not worry about what they think about you or that what you said confidentially will ever leave that room. 

Join a weekly cease fire from the world and spend it with God's men and His word. 

Have a great day!

Marty

A Chicken And Dumpling Day 11/7/2023

 Good Morning,

I just sat down to write and next to me is a hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee. Our two dogs have been fed and the house is warming up. It is time to write. 

Job 1:4 His sons used to go and hold a feast in the house of each one on his day, and they would send and invite their sisters to eat and drink with them. 

Our mother had a few recipes that we as siblings agreed were her best meal delights. One of those dishes was her chicken and dumplings. When she would ask me what she could make when I visited my parents, I would always ask for chicken and dumplings. Our dad always agreed with that choice. The chicken and dumplings were one of his favorites as well. 

Today we would be celebrating our dad's birthday. When we were younger and his birthday came around he never really made a big deal out of it. As he aged I think he realized that celebrating his birthday was more important for us, than it was to him. He stopped objecting to making attempts to celebrate and show our love for him. He would let us take him out for a nice prime rib dinner or a pizza. He never objected to having a cake. Dad had a sweet tooth. In his later years when we would gather for His birthday, Dad would say, "If your  mom were still with us, we would be eating chicken and dumplings." Myself and my two siblings should have sat down and learned just how she made that dish. Better yet we should have had her write down her recipe.

My points for today are this. If there is something you like and it requires mom's recipe, take the time to learn. Write it down. There are recipes for chicken and dumplings, but they aren't the same as mom's. Point number two is this. Take time to celebrate with your family. Let them celebrate you. You might not like to do it, but honor their love for you and celebrate. 

God Bless,

Marty

Waking Up To A Song 11/6/2023

 Good Morning,

I just poured a hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee. I have to work today so I will be taking some more coffee on the road with me. 

When the radio alarm clock shouted at me this morning it was playing Christmas tunes and it set my mind in motion. I am sure many of you have experienced hearing a tune and then it stays with you all day. What this song reminded me of is my wife Rene. She likes to listen to her music with the volume cranked up. She really never sings along to a song unless she believes she is alone.

I recall walking into the house many years ago and the music was blaring a Mariah Carey Christmas tune. Rene had no idea I was in the house.  I made it to the loft of our home and watched her dance and belt out that tune for a minute. She still had no idea that she was not alone. She happened to look up to the loft and I waved to her. I asked her if she really liked that song and she replied " I just Love Christmas". 

My point for the day is this. I am not sure what today will bring to anyone. But it never hurts to revive a good memory and have a laugh or enjoy a smile.

Philippians 4:8 Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things. 

Enjoy that special place in your memory vault and pass on a smile to others.

Marty

A Blanket Of Frost 11/5/2023

 Good Morning,

The cup of Door County Country Morning Blend Coffee that I filled up a little bit ago is almost gone. It is time to write. 

Overnight the temperature dropped enough to give is a blanket of frost on the roof tops and on the ground. It reminds me that despite the affairs of the world, our God is still in control and he blankets us with His love. Today my message will be short and sweet. 

It is one thing to be loved. It is another to know you are loved. God proved His love for us when He sent His Son Jesus Christ to die for our wrongs and provide eternal life for those who place their faith in Him.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 

Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 

Acts 4:12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. 

These three passages written above prove God's love for us and are most reassuring to me as I sit in the quiet and thank Him for answered prayers.

Marty

Good Old Elvis 11/4/2023

 Good Morning,

I pray this day is a blessing to all who are reading this today. I am very content while drinking a hot cup of Door County Country Morning Blend Coffee. 

Psalm 71:23 My lips will shout for joy when I sing praises to you; my soul also, which you have redeemed. 

November is upon us now and the radio in my car has and will be playing Christmas music for the next two months. Some say that this is too early for the Christmas tunes. But as for me and I stand alone on this  in our home, I enjoy Christmas and I like the music it brings. 

There aren't a lot of new Christmas tunes being written anymore. So the old ones of my childhood are still being played. So not only do I get to enjoy the music, I also can get pretty nostalgic during a song. Sometimes the song will remind me of the people of my past or a time that was so nice you wish you could go back and do it again one more time. 

The first tune of this season that I listened to was Silent Night and it was sung by Elvis Presley. This particular song has been recorded by a myriad of music artists. But listening to Elvis croon his way through Silent Night made me stop and think. It also made me count my blessings for the week, one by one. 

I challenge all of you to enjoy some Christmas music. For a minute or two my mind was cleared of the worries and woes of the day and  there was peace on my mind. Take a Christmas escape and clear your thoughts. The music was a resort for the mind!

Marty

Drought Recovery 11/3/2023

 Good Morning. 

My day started slowly this morning. For some reason I just can't seem to get myself into faster motion. I am sitting at me desk with a large mug of Door County Toasted Praline Coffee and it is time to write. The area of the United States where we live had been in a rough drought. We were many inches of rainfall short of what was needed. But, little by little and at times with some heavy rain storms our land recovered from the drought. As we head into winter and I look outside the grass is still green. Last week despite the cold my wife Rene had to mow the lawn. I spent some time in prayer asking God for more rain this summer and He answered the prayers of many people. 

What I want to talk about today is the spiritual droughts that we endure. A natural rain drought is something that we have no control over and there isn't much you can do about it. But a spiritual drought is something you control and most often it is by your own choice to be spiritually barren. We are as close to God as we choose to be. Yet, there are times when a spiritual drought is sent to us by God. Like plants, the roots grow in deeper to the ground seeking moisture and food. In a drought of loneliness and spiritual wandering we encounter a deeper thirst for God.

Psalm 63:1 O God, You are my God; Early will I seek you. My soul thirsts  for you.; My flesh longs for You, In a dry and thirsty land where there is no water. 

As if we were wandering in a hot desert, our body and soul would seek water with a great passion. Only water can cure a thirst. If we are in a time of spiritual drought, do we seek sources of relief from the world and our own desires? Or do we seek out the One who can end the drought in our hearts. Do we seek Him 24 hours a day with an unquenchable passion for spiritual peace and satisfaction? 

We are as close to God as we choose to be. 

Marty

There Was Snow On The Roses. 11/2/2023

 Good Morning, 

A hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee is steaming next to me while it entertains my taste buds. It is time for me to write. 

1 Samuel 16:7 But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." 

I took this photo yesterday morning after a mild snow storm from Tuesday visited our area of the world. The last flowers in my wife's garden belonged to a pink tea rose bush. All summer long it blossomed on and off. It was always overshadowed by the larger plants. Now at the end of the fall season and headed toward winter, the littlest plant is still blooming. It fought right to the end and still blossomed with snow decorating its leaves and branches. It will be trimmed a little today and covered up to rest through the winter. 

My point for the day. Don't overlook the smaller and younger folks that are stuck in the middle of the more powerful and louder folks. They can be, and often are great contributors to any cause. The little rose wasn't seen much this last summer. But it was the last one to make me smile. Appearance doesn't  always tell the whole story. 

Marty 

The Snow Came And It Was Good 11/1/2023

 Good Morning,

I was outside for a few minutes with our dogs and happily retreated inside to a hot cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee and the warmth of a fire. It is time to write.

Yesterday and last night we experienced the first snow of the season and it was enough to measure. Our two dogs enjoyed being in it and it was good to see them run and play. The snow was like a white blanket when I stepped outside with my cup of coffee this morning. For me, I felt like it even made the air smell better. It really emphasized the beginning of a new day. 

I am sure there will be a few people who will agree with my thoughts today. That blanket of snow covered anything that was on the ground and now is under the snow. You might be over burdened today and a new start is what you need. It is time to push the restart button in life. Make the things of the old days disappear and start anew this day as fresh as the snow. Bury old habits and mistakes and commit to new good habits and other wholesome actions. If a new location in life is warranted make sure to have God show you where. If new thoughts are in order ask God to share his thoughts, but surrender to having God wipe away the mistakes and ask Him to show you the way of life and His thoughts on your life and it's goals, purposes, and directions.

Isaiah 55:8 -12 8."For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," Declares the Lord. 9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. 10. As the rain and snow come down from the heaven and do not return to it without watering the earth and make it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, 11. so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire, and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. 12. You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you and all of the trees will clap their hands. 

In order for this to happen you must be humble and let God show you where and what He wants you to do. Go to the land that He will show you. Make this day a new one. Hit the refresh button. 

God bless,

Marty