tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25219146936362303602024-03-15T17:55:05.364-05:00Lines from LeannaFaith lived out loud:
Morning devotions,
evening confessionsLeanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.comBlogger1966125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-47531669486746981302018-03-29T06:38:00.000-05:002018-04-17T09:17:24.447-05:00On Endings and Beginnings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The first Lines from Leanna blog was posted 9/23/2013. Four-and-a-half years later, Lines from Leanna has moved to a new home. <a href="https://leannahollis.com/">Leannahollis.com</a> has been revamped and the process of moving old blog posts is well underway. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Since the change, I've struggled to get everything done in the mornings and double-post to the old blogspot site, as well. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Posting to the new site is more time-consuming, but I believe it's worth the effort.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My recent eye problems have prompted me to reevaluate everything, including the amount of time I spend on the computer. In the interest of avoiding eye strain, I've decreased my screen time and radically changed my work schedule. Yes, friends. I'm taking breaks for the first time in my life. I'm not writing as much, but I'm spending more time with each post and, I think, the writing reflects the extra care. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">New posts will be available three times a week instead of every day. The plan for now is to post on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. For the first time in nearly five years, I'm taking weekends off from writing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you've received the blog posts by daily emails in the past, I've exported your email address to the new email program. It won't come daily, as it has in the past, but you'll still receive an email (for now, every two weeks) and the links to recent blog posts will be included at the bottom of the email. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I hope you'll choose to stay in touch by adding a bookmark on your device (computer/tablet/smartphone) to <a href="https://leannahollis.com/blog.">leannahollis.com/blog.</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here's what you can expect. By now, you should have an email from me in your inbox. (Check spam if you don't see it.) The emails have one bit of ministry or blog news, one prayer request, and one freebie. Sometimes it's a free printable. Sometimes it's an exclusive story or some other treat. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today's email contains a link for a private 3-part blog post to use over the Easter Weekend. It's only available to email subscribers and you'll need to use the password (included, along with the link in the email) to access it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is a little bittersweet for me. I've loved sharing my life with you - my struggles, victories, and joys. You've laughed with me, wept with me, and prayed me through and I'm forever grateful. As we moved the names over to Mailchimp (my new email program), I prayed for you all by name. You are more precious to me than you can possibly know. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So...let's continue to do life together from our new home. I believe we'll enjoy the change.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">God bless you all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Leanna Hollis </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">ps - if you know someone who'd like to receive the newsletter, they can go to the website and sign up at the bottom of any page.</span></div>
Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-40506983795301188242018-02-06T06:20:00.004-06:002018-02-07T06:25:52.512-06:00The New Website is Finally Here...Sorta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you've ever had a child, you know how the excitement and anticipation of that first baby's arrival mounts as the due date draws near. By the time the baby comes, you're beyond ready. That's a little how I've felt about the new website. I've dreamed and planned and consulted and prayed. I've worked and reviewed and worked some more. Finally, it's here. Well, sorta.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>It's not all finished, but it's close enough to let you have a peek and see what I've been working on so hard.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Blake Wages, of Mission Marketing, listened to my dreams, helped me verbalize the picture in my head, then designed and built the website. My part was dreaming, writing, casting vision, and loading most of the blog posts. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I had the easy part.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Blake has to be the most patient human on earth. When my hair in the first landing photo looked awful, I did say, "Blake, I can't have a photo on the landing page with bad hair. We have to change it." He didn't roll his eyes. He didn't complain. He just changed it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He didn't balk at all my "can't we do it this way?" questions. He didn't complain when I went into the webmaster controls and changed things on my own because I couldn't wait. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Blake has been the hands and feet of Jesus to me as I've dreamed about how to make a more up-to-date website that will be attractive to readers of all ages. He's put as much energy and vision into this effort as I. We've strategized together about how to make it the kind of welcoming place you'd want to visit again and again. Blake is as much a part of this website as I am, and I'm grateful for his partnership. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I hope we've achieved all we dreamed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The descriptions and instructions below may be a little over-the-top, but I want you to have a good experience when you visit my new home for the first time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On the landing page, you'll see my photo and a welcome. (the screen shot above) If you scroll down a little, you'll see the most recent blog posts. They'll look a little different than my current blog, because you'll click on the photo rather than a title. The display is dynamic, so you'll get a fresh choice if you don't click right away. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>At the bottom of that page, you'll be able to sign up for my email newsletter. This will be a twice a month email to update you on my ministry, the website, new books, and freebies to download. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I won't share or sell your email addresses. I wouldn't want anyone to do that with mine, so I won't do it with yours. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We plan to offer some coupon codes from time to time, but I don't know how to do it yet and I'm counting on Blake to handle that project. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You can move to the next page from the top or the bottom of the page.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F4i69HoPHIw/Wnj-xFLTsUI/AAAAAAAAEWI/msEUxWY0lho_Vb6c6j7XgYxTungn2rR4wCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot%2B2018-02-05%2B19.01.19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="1055" height="160" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F4i69HoPHIw/Wnj-xFLTsUI/AAAAAAAAEWI/msEUxWY0lho_Vb6c6j7XgYxTungn2rR4wCLcBGAs/s320/Screenshot%2B2018-02-05%2B19.01.19.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The second page is the blog. I've limited the "topic tags" to faith, life, culture, and disciple life because they fit most of my posts. Pretty soon, there will be a "lagniappe" tag. (Lagniappe means "a little something extra") That's where you'll find the "new" blog. (I'll let you know when I do the first post.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">All the posts from 2018 are here, and a few from previous years. You can switch from one page to the next below the photos by clicking on the numbers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There's a mailing list sign-up at the bottom of the page. It's for the BLOG sign up by email. We don't have that working yet, but we will. If you're signed up for the current blog by email, we will move your email address and you'll still get the blog. That may take a few weeks. Until then, you'll get it the same as always. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The new website allows you to comment directly when you read the blog. You don't have to sign in to Google to comment. I hope you'll comment often because I'm looking forward to replying to your comments and having conversations about the posts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You'll find social media icons beneath every blog post so you can easily share the posts. I hope you'll do more than share on Facebook. Share to Pinterest, Twitter, Google Plus, Xing, and Linked In, as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Why does this matter? Because every share gives someone else the opportunity to see what God is doing here, and to learn more about discipleship and how to live the Christian life. Your share might be a part of a divine appointment for someone who's looking for a fresh start or more information about faith in Jesus.</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZKgOxhx-bA/Wnj_jvgtSrI/AAAAAAAAEWQ/id-SMLcyvOg0nFCz5Z5Ykcg63bY0ZNGjwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot%2B2018-02-05%2B19.05.46.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="616" data-original-width="951" height="207" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZKgOxhx-bA/Wnj_jvgtSrI/AAAAAAAAEWQ/id-SMLcyvOg0nFCz5Z5Ykcg63bY0ZNGjwCLcBGAs/s320/Screenshot%2B2018-02-05%2B19.05.46.png" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The third page is an "about me" page. Scroll down and you'll see more photos and a little bit about my journey.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ht66fBlTqzU/WnkAOnywy3I/AAAAAAAAEWc/1xy_9kAHUN85FxkmdPoOv1H5Gl_qTb05gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot%2B2018-02-05%2B19.08.42.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="187" data-original-width="341" height="175" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ht66fBlTqzU/WnkAOnywy3I/AAAAAAAAEWc/1xy_9kAHUN85FxkmdPoOv1H5Gl_qTb05gCLcBGAs/s320/Screenshot%2B2018-02-05%2B19.08.42.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Page four is a little tricky. When you hover over "get involved" at the top, the about page will keep scrolling until you make a selection from the drop down menu. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>The "Prayer" option will allow you to learn of something I'm praying about and join with me in intercession. This week, I'm praying over a heartbreaking situation that occurred recently in Africa. I need your help.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you choose "contact" you can contact me via an email message. Soon, we'll have a volunteer option, too, and you can choose from several opportunities to help out with prayer and outreach, as well as help at Global Outreach Home Office. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We'll also have an upcoming events option and you can find out how to sign up for retreats, join me when I speak, and participate in prayer events and our coming-soon virtual prayer walks. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The last page is an online store. You can buy books and find freebies to download. We have a free printable or two ready and they'll be available later this week. I hope we'll have some other cool things on there before long. Handmade greeting cards, t-shirts, etc are all in the works. The money from sales will be used to support my ministry efforts. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There's a link to purchase the new James study. It's only $3.99 on Amazon. You can take a peek on Amazon. I hope you'll consider buying it. (Thanks in advance!) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before long, you'll probably see an ad or two and some affiliate links. I'll use those judiciously, again with the hope of supporting ministry efforts with the funds they produce. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Please bear with me as I make these transitions. Both the website, and the efforts to support the ministry in this new way are works in progress and significant leaps of faith for me.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our labor of love is just a tiny baby right now. We expect to have it a little more "mature" over the next week or so, and to continue to grow for years to come. The goal isn't a cool website. The goal is to spread the gospel throughout the world, including to the billions of people in the digital world. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>This is Great Commission work, but we'll have to do it together to get it done.</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just this past week, I wrote, you shared, and God brought people from Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, India, Jordan, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom to the website. We've reached the world together, but let's not stop now. There's plenty of work left to do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With all that said, are you ready to view my new web-baby? I hope you enjoy. Let me know what you think. Here's the link: <a href="http://www.leannahollis.com/">www.leannahollis.com</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20 niv</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed yesterday's post, here's the link: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/02/sliding-down-slippery-slope-and-how-to.html">Sliding Down the Slippery Slope and How to Stop the Descent</a></span></div>
Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-36307239243708401112018-01-31T06:38:00.005-06:002018-01-31T06:38:54.834-06:00Proper Prayer Begins by Taming the Tongue <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our small group started the Priscilla Shirer study, <u>Can We Talk?</u>, last night. The six-week course is designed to encourage a more effective prayer life. The first week's lessons are about the tongue and how we use our mouths. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've taught on prayer for years, but beginning with the tongue was a little unexpected. It's a great starting point, though. Two verses in James explain why:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father; and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God;" James 3:8,9 nasb</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The mouth is all I can see of the animal in the photo. My first thought was "llama," then "donkey," and, finally, "horse in the winter with long hair." The mouth captures my attention in a way it wouldn't if closed. It's so unattractive that I can't tell if the rest of the horse is beautiful or not.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My mouth, too, has all too often dominated how I seem to people over the years. I've spoken without thinking or, worse, spoken what I thought without caring about the consequences. As someone I love once said, I used my mouth like a weapon. I was good at it, too, if slashing the hearts and confidence of others with your words is a skill to be admired. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What came out of my mouth, in the past and more recently than I'd like to admit, had more to do with pride on my part than a desire to impart truth. I believed "my" way was best, what I wanted was what should be done. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It didn't take me long to learn the squeaky wheel gets the grease, the loudest voice is the one we hear, she who persists the longest often gets her way. I've known this, and lived it, most of my life. All those adages may be true, but they don't tell us about the hurt those loud, squeaky voices and those arrogant words leave behind.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm sorry for the arrogance with which I've spoken over the years and, if I could take those words back, I would. Words once spoken, however, can never be recalled. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That, my friends, is why James describes the tongue as a consuming fire and why he says no one can tame it. Only God can extinguish the fire and bring balm to our mouths. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If we want a right relationship with God, we need more than clean hearts and hands. We need clean tongues, as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Let's think about our words for a moment, if we can stand it. How have we spoken in the last week, the last month, the last year? Have our words been a fountain of life or a spewing fountain of poison? Have we blessed God and cursed our neighbor? Have we spoken words that demean and hurt or build up and encourage?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If we want to please God, to have a sweet and intimate relationship with Him, we must allow Him to tame our tongues. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The choice is ours. Will we surrender this tiny bit of our anatomy to His control? Will we allow our words to bless, encourage, flow with kindness like a river of love washing over those who most need it? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I choose surrender, repentance, cleansing, change. I want my mouth to be a source of blessing to all I meet. What about you? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." Proverbs 18:21kjv</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's link: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/living-in-shadow-of-cross-and-loving.html">Living in the Shadow of the Cross and Loving our Enemies</a></span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-4308193426976346792018-01-30T06:56:00.001-06:002018-01-30T07:06:33.982-06:00Living in the Shadow of the Cross and Loving Our Enemies <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's hard to tell this story without going into the specifics, but there's no need to dredge the past up again, so please bear with me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">More than a decade ago, I went through a terrible time. Two people, in particular, plus a third who helped in the gouging of my heart, had the greatest role in that awfulness and, for a time, I considered them all my enemies. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What does the Bible say about enemies? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">..<i>.Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you..." Luke 6:27-28 nasb</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"repay evil with blessing..." 1 Peter 3:9 </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"...love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you." Matthew 5:44</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Those passages are perfectly clear. When we, disciples of Jesus, have an "enemy," we are to pray, bless, and love them. This behavior is not optional. It's what disciples of Christ are supposed to do, so I did it. There was nothing amazing or saintly in my decision to obey. It was simple Christian living.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Not to love my enemies, or bless them, or pray for them would've been disobedience to the command of Jesus. It would've been sin, whether I felt justified in my anger or not. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Disobedience to a hard command is sin. </i>We don't like to hear those words, but they're true. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the first few hours of that devastating darkness, I sank to my face on my prayer room floor and spoke words of blessing toward all involved. I didn't feel it, and both God and I knew it, but I did it as an act of surrender and obedience. I prayed that same prayer over and over again. It took a long time to "mean it" when I prayed, but that effort in persevering prayer changed everything.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The situation didn't resolve in the </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">way I'd hoped, but God did a work in my relationship with one of the people, and, over the years, with another one of them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yesterday, I was in a business meeting with one of the three former-enemy people, who's doing some work for me. I had to call another person in the trio about the outcome of the meeting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"What's up with this? Is he helping you?" the second person asked.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Yeah. He's a great guy."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Are you kidding me? He was against you."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I laughed. "Yeah, well, look at all you did, but I forgave you. I'm big on forgiveness, you know. We forgave each other and we love each other now. There's nothing I wouldn't do for him, and nothing he wouldn't do for me." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My former enemy was aghast. "Really?"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Yep. This is what forgiving and loving your enemies look like. They become your friends. This is how I treat you, isn't it?"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Well, yeah..."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is no way to communicate how horrible the situation was. I was absolutely devastated by it. More than a decade later, though, I can look back and laugh. God did a powerful work in me, and in the other people involved, as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've never even met the third person in the trio, and I don't particularly want to, but I'd be fine if I did. That's how a healed wound works. It doesn't hurt anymore.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">All that blessing and praying and loving was worth it, even though I didn't want to do it at the time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When we live in the shadow of the cross, we must allow it to determine how we live, how we respond to trouble, how we treat our enemies. Jesus set an example we are to follow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What about loving our enemies is optional? Nothing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Why love our enemies when the world says don't? Because Jesus commanded love. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When I was face down on the prayer room floor, my reality was pain, hurt, fear, anger. I couldn't imagine the future we all have today, but Jesus could. I didn't have to envision it, plan for it, or anticipate such a glorious outcome. All that was required to gain the love we share today was one tiny act of obedience at all time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If we're reeling from the betrayal or hurt of another person, we have two options. Respond as the world responds or respond as Jesus said. Only one of those choices brings blessing. Only one brings the healing that turns enemies into dear, much-loved friends somewhere in the future. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Which will we choose? It's a decision that can change the future is ways we cannot begin to imagine, so let's choose obedience. Choose love, blessings, prayer, and let God use our efforts to do a work only He can do. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Loving as Christ loves is always the right decision. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/when-i-couldnt-tell-if-id-achieved-my.html">When I Couldn't Tell if I'd Achieved My Goal or Not</a></span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-7191693856255696562018-01-29T08:45:00.000-06:002018-01-30T05:55:33.178-06:00When I Couldn't Tell If I'd Achieved My Goal or Not <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Friends arrive today from abroad for an extended stay. I decided to prepare a welcome meal for tomorrow. The goal was to cook food that seemed familiar, a little touch of home. The problem, of course, was that I didn't know how to cook the way they cook "back home." I don't have their knack with spices or the exact flavor combinations in my skill set.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Nevertheless, I assumed a Google search would be sufficient, and plunged ahead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yesterday, I prepped two eggplants to make baba gahnoush, a smooth, creamy eggplant dip. I'd eaten this dish numerous times, but I'd never prepared it before. No problem, I thought. I bought two eggplants and some tahini sauce and downloaded a recipe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just to be sure of my goal, I bought a small container of baba gahnoush from the grocery. It tasted like bad Ranch dressing. Mislabeled, I decided, discarded it, and went to work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I sliced the eggplants, put them cut-side down in my cast iron skillet, and stuck them under the broiler until the skin bubbled up and started to turn black. As the recipe said, I removed them from the skillet and set them aside to cool. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Perfect progress, it seemed, as I peeled the skin off. That's when things started to get interesting. The recipe clearly stated that the eggplant should be mashed with a fork, which seemed crazy because it was so stringy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I put it in the bowl of my stand mixer, instead. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm not saying the stand mixer was the problem, just that it's the place my path and the recipe parted ways. First, my recipe called for one eggplant. I used two, so I doubled all the ingredients, but forgot the salt, mainly because I'm on a low-salt diet. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I wasn't sure what to do with the eggplant seeds, so I left them. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I mixed the glob of goo with the paddle until it was mostly smooth. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was a gray mess, which made me think of gray matter in the brain, and pretty much grossed me out. I tasted it with trepidation, the thought of eating brain still in my head. It tasted terrible. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That's when I started improvising. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I added some salt, extra cumin, more lemon juice. Nothing helped. I gathered a variety of recipes and pulled from all of them. One listed red pepper in the ingredients, so I gave the cayenne a hearty shake. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I wasn't sure about the texture. I couldn't decide what taste I needed to achieve. Finally, I gave the concoction another whirl with the mixer, called it baba gahnoush, and put it in a container.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I don't know if I made baba gahnoush or not.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The problem wasn't my enthusiasm for the task, nor my dedication. The problem was an uncertain goal. I wanted baba gahnoush, but my culinary memory didn't extend far enough for me to </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">know how it looked nor how it tasted. I needed an experienced guide.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As I've pondered that bowl of eggplant dip (which may or may not be baba gahnoush), I've realized the life of a disciple is a lot like my cooking efforts. Living like Jesus intended is impossible if we don't know what it's supposed to look like, to feel like, to be like.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That's</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> what the authors of the New Testament hoped to show us through their words and lives. When Paul said, "do what I do," it wasn't pride talking. He wanted his readers to understand one truth. "This is how the Christian life looks. Do it this way." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I don't want his shipwrecks, prison bars, or chains, but I'd sure like to have the power Paul had. His writings are filled with absolute abandon and reckless surrender. He was all-in for Christ, no matter the cost.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Paul wasn't a pew-sitter. He was a world-changer, and THAT is our pattern. He told everyone who would listen about the One who changed his life. He pressed on, no matter what happened. He lived what he taught.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If we want the power of God that Paul had, we'll have to walk the path Paul walked, all-in, faith-filled, perseverance. <i>That's</i> how we know we've achieved the life of a disciple.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, let's ask ourselves if we're living a life that's intended to be that of a disciple or if we're living the disciple life the first century writers tried to show us. Which do we want? Which does Jesus want us to have? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If we need to make changes whether in priority, in thoughts, or in actions, let's look to Scripture for direction and do what it says. It's that easy. It's that hard. It's worth it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained. Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us...For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eager wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ;" Philippians 3:16-17, 20 nasb</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-blood-of-jesus-family-reunion.html">The Blood-of-Jesus Family Reunion</a></span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-30112458591879786152018-01-28T08:05:00.001-06:002018-01-28T08:05:31.278-06:00The Blood-of-Jesus Family Reunion <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UEtEpvs2uJk/Wm3N2cNbbqI/AAAAAAAAEOE/rgOiKV9HGho1WHcZUMAZJdo8A9LqeTiuwCLcBGAs/s1600/pexels-photo-226718.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UEtEpvs2uJk/Wm3N2cNbbqI/AAAAAAAAEOE/rgOiKV9HGho1WHcZUMAZJdo8A9LqeTiuwCLcBGAs/s320/pexels-photo-226718.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I can't remember why one of my small groups fell apart. I'm pretty sure it was my fault. We met in my home, but travel, ministry, and busyness got in the way. I was tired all the time. It was too much. We should meet somewhere else, I thought. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We didn't.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Last night, we finally gathered around my living room again, and it was as if we'd never been apart. We laughed, shared stories of answered prayers, confessed our needs, worshipped and prayed together. After a pot-luck meal, one young man played his guitar and shared the songs he'd been learning. Some sang along, others listened. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We're family even though we're not blood-kin. The thought crossed my mind, but instantly, I realized we're about as blood-kin as it gets, for the blood of Jesus unites us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Last night, after everyone left, I climbed into bed and savored the laughter, the tears, the joy, the love. <i>Had I really been too busy for this sweetness?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our time together caused me to examine my priorities and I've found them sadly askew again. I'm left wondering... what was more important than the people I love? What was accomplished during our time apart? Why didn't I realize how much I need these precious people in my life? How much we need each other?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Am I the only one with tunnel vision that focuses on the task, the need before my eyes, but neglects the bigger picture of friends and extended family? Is this a problem for us all?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If so, let's stop the busyness and begin to embrace relationship, the way Jesus did. He didn't send his disciples home at the end of a busy day. He spent time with the people He loved, ate with them, laughed, wept, and prayed together. He invested in the lives of others in a way that had eternal significance, and we should, too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The body of Christ is bigger than we realize. More important. More powerful. This morning, I'm left wondering what would happen in our world if we, the people of Christ, began to live the unity for which Jesus prayed, to live it fully. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Into whose life are we investing? With whom do we "do life?" For whom do we bear burdens and share joys outside our immediate family? If the truth is "no one," we need a new reality. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, let's reach out, invite in, embrace the family Christ purchased with His blood. Serve, live, and love as one, just as Jesus intended. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"From Him, the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." Ephesians 4:16</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's yesterday's link: <a href="http://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/when-were-finally-sick-of-our-own-sin.html">When We're Finally Sick of Our Sin and Decide to Let it Go</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You might also enjoy this post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2017/10/when-your-prayers-need-little-help-from.html">When Your Prayers Need a Little Help From Your Friends</a></span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-70337415416503769342018-01-27T09:34:00.003-06:002018-01-27T09:36:21.912-06:00When We're Finally Sick of Our Own Sin and Decide to Let it Go<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f_UMHRPqjeI/WmyMApMA3bI/AAAAAAAAENk/xYqRzqooscYVuJqHSMhmJRtyzNs7uFNVQCLcBGAs/s1600/aaron-burden-60066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="1600" height="227" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f_UMHRPqjeI/WmyMApMA3bI/AAAAAAAAENk/xYqRzqooscYVuJqHSMhmJRtyzNs7uFNVQCLcBGAs/s320/aaron-burden-60066.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"The craziest things happen to you," someone said recently, and they were right. Strange things <i>do</i> happen. An eye problem none of my physicians had seen before. A chain that broke because it mysteriously developed rust in one single link. Cane poles that had been substituted for metal fence posts. A broken knife blade left by the front door. A water pipe that froze and blew off its cap, causing a Niagara-sized flood. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If all the odd things "meant" anything, I didn't understand it, but I'd held on to the assumption that things would settle down soon. They always have. Yesterday, I left the office at noon with plans for a productive few hours. I expected to saw down some small trees in the pasture, study a writing text, start edits, clean house, wash clothes, take out the garbage, cook a real meal instead of eat leftovers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Very little of that was done. One thing after another happened, some of it catastrophic, some my own fault, some so disappointing I sat on the floor and wept like a baby. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the dark night of my soul, I saw my own heart, and the bleak vision brought even more tears. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I faced my sin, and I was horrified by the pride, critical spirit, and sense of perfectionism in me. God had removed it all, but I'd allowed a seedling of sin to blossom into a vile, choking weed. Again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I want all the wickedness gone. You may wonder if attitudes that don't manifest in significant actions are "wickedness," but the answer is yes. Sin is always wickedness. There's nothing sweet or charming about it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I want to be perfect, even as my Father in Heaven is perfect, but I have a long way to go. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Part of the job of disciples includes quick repentance and progressive growth toward a Christ-like heart. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I know none of us will be perfect this side of heaven, but I'd like to be a good bit closer than I am. Wouldn't you? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I repented. I wept before the Lord, confessed my sin, and asked for forgiveness.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He forgave me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was that simple, but it didn't seem like enough. I repented some more. I wept some more. I apologized over and over again. Maybe you've never had one of those "come to Jesus" moments, but they are soul-cleansing hard, and white-as-snow beautiful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This morning, I still felt bad about the darkness I'd found in my heart. "I don't feel forgiven, Lord. I feel far away. Snuggle me again, Shepherd of My Heart." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Have you ever felt this before? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I opened my Bible to John, and reviewed the verses I'm planting in my heart. Those beautiful words washed over me like the balm of Gilead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace." John 1:16 nasb</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Read those lovely words again, and ponder them with me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Forgiveness isn't given because of our feelings. It comes from the mercy and grace of God. He <i>mercifully</i> doesn't give us what we deserve. Instead, <i>through grace</i>, He gives us the forgiveness and cleaning we don't deserve. "<i>And grace upon grace."</i> He continues to give, every single time we need forgiveness. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There was another passage that spoke to me in my despair and filled me with hope. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses." (2 Corinthians 10:3-4 nasb)</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The weapon God has given us is powerful enough to demolish even the strongholds and fortresses in our own hearts. Our only offensive weapon is</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, and it's more than enough. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The word of God can demolish all the lies we've embraced, all the strongholds we've allowed the enemy to claim. I saw that truth again this morning. It's only effective, however, if we know what it says and allow it to do it's beautiful work in our hearts. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If we're tired of the load of sin we've been carrying, let's do something about it. Today, let's confess our sin and embrace the forgiveness only our loving, merciful, grace-filled Savior can give. Allow our faith to dictate to our feelings. We are loved, bought with a price, and washed white as snow. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Let's live clean, because we are. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." Hebrews 4:12</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">case you</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/why-my-borders-need-to-expand.html">Why My Borders Need to Expand</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You might also like: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2016/10/demolishing-strongholds-and-choosing-to.html">Demolishing Strongholds and Choosing to be Free</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "san francisco" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "ubuntu" , "roboto" , "noto" , "segoe ui" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/-uj3Y7r1BeM?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Aaron Burden</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "san francisco" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "ubuntu" , "roboto" , "noto" , "segoe ui" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/search/photos/bible?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></span>Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-13260606391349980362018-01-26T07:23:00.000-06:002018-01-26T07:25:27.680-06:00Why My Borders Need to Expand<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u2s0EK-7eJc/WmsnFG_-85I/AAAAAAAAELE/RKGILQ-jrf4rcfQjRbV1hbTcAKNBDmGzACLcBGAs/s1600/office-home-glasses-workspace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u2s0EK-7eJc/WmsnFG_-85I/AAAAAAAAELE/RKGILQ-jrf4rcfQjRbV1hbTcAKNBDmGzACLcBGAs/s320/office-home-glasses-workspace.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Six months or more ago, I viewed my blog analytics and realized my "audience" included a smaller age range than I intended. Where were the younger people? I was neck-deep in caring for Sam and writing the Caregiver Chronicles, so I assumed my blog posts might not be pertinent to 30-something's, but the problem gnawed at me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I looked at my website one day and realized it was terrific for a woman of a certain age, but it wasn't a modern website, nor one that might catch the eye of a younger reader. I talked to a mid-twenties colleague and asked for suggestions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"You need to update your site," he told me, so I did. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The "new" design looked much better, to my way of thinking. I grabbed my laptop and hurried down the hall to show my young friend. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"What do you think?" I asked him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Do you want me to be honest?" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Yeah. I really do."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Okay. It looks great. For a 1990's site. Let me show you what websites can look like now." With a few clicks, he opened up a new world of technology and design. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Can you make something like this for me?" I asked him, dizzied by the possibilities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Yep."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I hired him on the spot. It's taken a while, but t</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">he new website is finally in the process of "migration." I'm not really sure what that entails, but it's somehow moving from the old site to the new one. The domain's the same, leannahollis.com, so I don't know why this takes so long, but it does.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The new website's been a lot of work and has required a lot of thought. There's been expense, too, for the new site, the new hosting service, new software to allow me to work more efficiently and with greater skill. The blogging course to help me "up my game" wasn't free, and it's taking quite a bit of time to work through.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Why all this effort? My objective in the blog is not to have a cool bit of technology or capture millions of views, although I'd like to have both. The goal of this blog is to demonstrate the life of a disciple by sharing the stories of my faith and God at work in my life. If I can expand my audience with sharper technology, if I can draw younger people to a life of faith lived out loud, my words can help expand the Kingdom of God, change lives, and make a difference in the world around me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This morning, I read Mark 1 and the words confirmed the importance of what I'm trying to do. Jesus was in Capernaum. He'd taught in the synagogue that morning, then healed Peter's mother-in-law. The news spread like wildfire through the little town. After sundown, the "whole city" came to His door. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They'd heard about the miracle of healing and wanted Jesus to do a miracle for them, and He did. He healed the sick, cast out demons, and loved the people who came. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just after dawn, Jesus slipped away to a quiet place to pray. Before long, His disciples found Him. (Leanna paraphrase coming up.) "Hey, Jesus, everyone's looking for you."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"I know. But we need to move on to a different town."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"What? You're an overnight sensation. Everybody wants to see you!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"I didn't come here to be an overnight sensation. We need to move to another town so I can preach the good news. That's the reason I came."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There were sick people who wanted to be healed. Jesus cared about their illnesses, but He cared about their sin-sickness even more. Preaching, sharing the good news, was His priority. He chose to move along in order to accomplish that goal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Therein is the reason for the new website. If sharing the Good News of Jesus is my priority, I need to continue to move in a direction that allows me to share with all who will listen (or read). If I can widen my technological borders, it's important to do so.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is Great Commission work, and one to which we're all called. Share Jesus with all who will listen, as effectively as possible, wherever we are. For me, that includes time in the digital space. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, let's spend a few moments considering our own witness. How effectively are we communicating the love of Jesus and His soul-saving power? Are we living out the Great Commission in our slice of the world? Do we need to "up our game" to widen our own personal audience? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The Great Commission is not a suggestion. It's an assignment. Let's be sure we're doing our part.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"And He said to them, 'Let us go somewhere else to the towns nearby, in order that I may preach there also; for that is what I came out for.'" Mark 1:38 nasb</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the most recent post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-walk-down-memory-lane-that-filled.html">The Walk Down Memory Lane that Filled Me with Joy</a></span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-91505942257589716862018-01-24T05:59:00.000-06:002018-01-24T06:55:29.030-06:00The Walk Down Memory Lane That Filled Me With Joy <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlPyU36Qs4U/UkccEyuEueI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/zykg8vuew78cl28Rf_3bKVIm1mIJ3PFAQCPcB/s1600/Picture%2B215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlPyU36Qs4U/UkccEyuEueI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/zykg8vuew78cl28Rf_3bKVIm1mIJ3PFAQCPcB/s320/Picture%2B215.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My life changed irrevocably on September 24, 2013, at 6:21 am, when I posted my first blog post. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For more than four years, I've chronicled my adventures, faith, and the work of God in my life on a daily basis. I've shared my highest highs and lowest lows, my griefs and joys. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The blog will soon move to my personal website. It's considerably more modern and more beautiful. This blog space, however, is very precious to me. Last night, I spent several hours in the "old" blog's archive, and realized the photos represented every major event of the last four years. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My fledgling attempts at fiction writing, my son's graduation from college, the time <u>The Clay Papers</u> e-book went to #1 on Amazon and stayed there for four days, my dogs, my trip to the Bahamas, my trips to Jordan when I fell in love with a nation and her people, holidays, Bible studies, volunteering, becoming a missionary, caring for Sam... Everything is documented in the photographs I've shared.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As I roamed through the digital archive, I re-read the stories, as well. You've lived life with me, and I'm eternally grateful. I hope you'll continue through this transition and beyond. You've made me a better writer, because you've been such faithful readers, and I hope I never stop thanking you all for such a precious gift. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My trip down memory lane took me inevitably to my first blog post, when I trusted God and you with my writing. I'm still grateful for that leap of faith. Reading it again was a blessing to me, so I've included it below. I hope it's a blessing to you, as well. Thank you for making my life so very rich and full by reading and loving what I write.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Much love and thanks, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Leanna </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Deadwood and Divine Pruning</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The shrubs and landscaping in front of my house were overgrown and threatening to completely block the sidewalk. It seems crazy now, but even though it looked messy and was becoming an azalea jungle, I couldn't figure out how to fix it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I didn't realize it, but I needed an expert.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My friend, Linda Buchanan, mentioned her new yard man one day. Mr. Bailey was a wonder and a great help, she said, so I called him. That first day, I instructed him to clean up the front and trim the shrubs a little. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I had no idea what he was about to do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A few hours later, I walked outside to see an enormous pile of brush. Mr. Bailey had trimmed more than I expected. My heart sank as I thought, "My azaleas! He has cut down my azaleas!" I hurried around front to find, not destruction, but order. He had trimmed up the mess and brought it under control. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Instead of a jungle, I had lovely landscaping again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">John the Baptizer's listeners were in a similar situation. They knew they had a mess in their lives and that something needed to be done. That's why they had come out to the banks of the Jordan to hear him. Their heritage wasn't enough to save them, nor their sacrifices. They were in a quandary. What then? What could they do?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He began by giving practical examples of sacrificial behavior. Shortly, however, Jesus would come for baptism, and John would recognize exactly what they all needed. The Lamb of God would take away their sin. They couldn't do anything to rectify their guilt but Jesus would do it for them and He would soon set them free.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Maybe you, too, are wondering what to do about problems in your life or in the lives of loved ones. You may not realize it, but, like me, you need an expert. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>The answer is incredibly simple. Look to Jesus.</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He can clean up the mess of your life as well as that of your loved ones. He can clean up the guilt and shame and set you free.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, let's pray for a heart willing to accept the kind of divine pruning only Christ can do. </span></div>
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<i><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And the crowds were questioning him, saying, "Then what shall we do?" (Luke 3:10 NASB)</span></i></i></div>
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<i><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The next day he saw Jesus coming to him and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29 NASB)</span></i></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/when-lion-roars-five-promises.html">When the Lion Roars: Five Promises Christians Can Claim</a></span></div>
Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-2365185056186227322018-01-23T07:52:00.000-06:002018-01-23T07:52:11.627-06:00When the Lion Roars: Five Promises Christians Can Claim <div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SFp2Xqsh5CQ/WmctO0GCXxI/AAAAAAAAEKc/KH_afTr2t0UgBKbKNBde5FwHwvmF22w_gCLcBGAs/s1600/lemuel-butler-515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="211" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SFp2Xqsh5CQ/WmctO0GCXxI/AAAAAAAAEKc/KH_afTr2t0UgBKbKNBde5FwHwvmF22w_gCLcBGAs/s320/lemuel-butler-515.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Blog posts ideas don't always pop into my head fully formed. Sometimes, I open my computer and stare at the blank page, my brain equally blank because I have no idea what to write.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On those days, I use an unusual story prompt: my photo app. I open the photo file and scroll through until something catches my attention or an idea comes to mind. Today, I decided to try a variation on the story-prompt theme. I opened a free photo site and scrolled through until I saw the photo of the roaring lion</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. A verse from 1 Peter came to mind and a blog post was born. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." 1 Peter 5:8 nasb</i></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The lion's roar is a terrifying sound, and can be heard up to five miles away. According to <a href="http://lionalert.org/page/how_do_lions_communicate">lionalert.org</a><span id="goog_1801527066"></span><span id="goog_1801527067"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a>, "lions roar to tell other lions where they are, to show how big they are, and to warn lions from other prides to keep away from their home territory." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The lion's roar is a loud message that says, in a way, "I'm here and so big you can't get away. Don't tangle with me. Don't invade my space." It's a message of pride that defies other animals to venture into his territory. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">How does that translate to the spiritual realm? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1) <u>The lion's roar proclaims his size.</u> The evil one roars to proclaim his dominance over us. He would have us believe he's the biggest, baddest lion in the area, but that's a lie. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world." (1 John 4:4)</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If Scripture is true, and it is, Satan is not greater, or more powerful, than our God. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2) <u>The lion's roar proclaims his proximity.</u> In a way, the roar says, "I'm right on top of you. I have you now." The enemy of our souls would have us believe he's so close we will not be able to resist or flee. Jesus, however, said He and His Father would live <i>in</i> us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our abode with him." John 14:23 </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">No matter what the enemy says, He cannot evict our Father. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3) <u>The lion's roar proclaims his ownership.</u> When the lion roars to proclaim his territory, he defies other lions to risk entering. As Christians, however, we do not belong to the world or the powers of this world. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body." 1 Corinthians 6:19,20 nasb</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Regardless of what the enemy claims, he does not have authority over us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. <u>The lion's roar proclaims his power.</u> The roaring lion would have other lions believe he is big enough and powerful enough to defend that which is his. In that same way, the evil one would have us believe he is powerful enough to destroy us and that God cannot snatch us from his claws nor deliver us in time of danger and temptation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." 1 Corinthians 10:13 niv</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>5. </i><u>The lion's roar proclaims his victory.</u><i> </i>A victory in advance of battle is nothing more than a prideful boast. We may experience battle with the evil one, but we have all we need for battle, and we fight a defeated foe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." Ephesians 6:13</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">God has already given us the defensive weapons to protect ourselves from the onslaught of the evil one. He has also given us the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, which is the only offensive weapon we will ever need. We must know Scripture, however, to use it. We do have power, but we must be prepared before the lion roars. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lions roar, because that's how they're made. The evil one also roars with pride and defiance, because that's who he is. Fear and defeat are his objectives, but we can stand firm in the face of his tactics, if we remember the truth God has given. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The power, authority, and ownership of our souls were bought by Jesus with His precious blood. The enemy's claim on us has been broken. We have been set free, from sin, death, and the roar of the lion. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, let's evaluate the roar of the evil one in our lives. Do we tremble with fear when he threatens? Does fear cause us to run straight into his lair? Let's remember Whose we are and live as those who have been redeemed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We have been freed, so let's live free.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed yesterday's post, here's the link: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/when-where-you-arrive-is-not-where-you.html">When Where You Arrive is Not Where You Meant to Go</a></span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-30690345195933843142018-01-22T07:01:00.002-06:002018-01-22T19:54:08.716-06:00When Where You Arrive Is Not Where You Meant to Go<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xe6Tz9I_Wd0/WmaVc4gHWsI/AAAAAAAAEJY/cwEOtO3bL0gu74KJFMPzubtseg-uuokYwCLcBGAs/s1600/annie-spratt-223429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xe6Tz9I_Wd0/WmaVc4gHWsI/AAAAAAAAEJY/cwEOtO3bL0gu74KJFMPzubtseg-uuokYwCLcBGAs/s320/annie-spratt-223429.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've been super-busy preparing for the new website and the new blog. Everything will finally be in one place. You'll be able to go directly to the blog without social media links if you want, although those links will still be available. You'll be able to comment on the blog without signing in to Google or going back to a social media site, and I'll be able to easily reply.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There will also be a store with a variety of items for sale. One item I've worked on recently is the James Bible study. When I finished writing it, I posted it as a dropbox file for readers to download to their computers. What I quickly learned was that most of my readers use their phones or tablets to access the blog, not a computer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I tried converting to a series of six blog files, as well as to a print version, but neither worked well. Recently, I decided to do what I should've done all along. Make an e-book. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As part of the preparation for uploading the file, I spent days reworking my document endnotes ("footnotes" placed at the end of the book instead of the bottom of the page). I went through every link to be sure it worked. I reread the text several times to check for errors. I studied James, and was kicked in the repenter again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once all that was done, I signed in to Amazon's easy create-a-book site and went to work. I designed a lovely cover, uploaded the photos and file, corrected formatting, and was almost ready to hit "publish" when I noticed something odd. There was nothing about e-books on the web page. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I fretted with this for an absurdly long time before I realized a critical fact. I was on the site to publish print books, not e-books. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I had gone to the wrong website and was seconds away from a book I didn't want. Where I meant to go was not where I'd arrived.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I backed out of the print site and went to the e-book prep site. An entirely different bit of formatting needed to be done. Because I work on a MAC, the e-book Table of Contents and internal links all had to be done by hand. It was way past bedtime when I finished last night.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The problem of arriving where I didn't intend to go was quickly solved by opening a new tab on my web browser. The problem of an eternal destination error is not as easily solved, however. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just as I had two publication options (print or e-book), we have two eternal destinations. Heaven or hell. We choose our destination in advance and, unlike publication options, once arrived, the choice cannot be undone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As James, the half-brother of Jesus, wrote, our faith is revealed by our works. Faith that isn't manifested by works is dead. In other words, if our faith doesn't change us and make us more like Jesus, we need to consider whether we have saving faith or not. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Those are hard words, but they come straight from Scripture. I'd soften them a bit and wrap them in flowery prose. James does not. He'd rather offend and save a soul than cushion someone in comfortable words that usher them straight to hell.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">James urged those to whom he wrote to examine their faith. We'd be wise to do the same. To what kind of faith do our works give evidence? Is Christ clearly seen in our words, our actions, our deeds? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If all we do is sit on a pew once a week, can we, realistically, expect that kind of faith to take us to heaven? According to James, it's life-altering, behavior-changing faith that assures our eternity with Jesus, not attendance at a series of meetings, not matter how well-intended. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If heaven's where we want to spent eternity, let's be sure that's where we're headed. None of us can enter God's home on our goodness alone. We're all sinners. It takes faith, covered by the grace of God, to enter Heaven.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8-9 niv </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-importance-of-mucking-out-stalls.html">The Importance of Mucking Out the Stalls</a></span><br />
<span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/kZO9xqmO_TA?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Annie Spratt</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/search/photos/map?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a>Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-46536192371105777242018-01-21T08:16:00.001-06:002018-01-21T08:22:17.050-06:00The Importance of Mucking Out the Stalls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The photo today might be a little bit shocking, but bear with me. Yes, the contents of the wheelbarrow are exactly what you think. Manure. It's a part of my daily routine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When the temperatures are low or the weather is stormy, my horses go into the barn for their evening meal and to sleep overnight. The next morning, they have breakfast and go outside again, where fresh water, grass, and hay await them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My job is to prepare the stalls in which they reside. Every day, I fill the racks with fresh hay and the water buckets with fresh water. I also scoop out the waste from the night before. Part of that waste is hay that's been trodden underfoot. Part of it is the droppings they've left behind. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There's something oddly appealing about the job of "mucking out" the stalls. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I take great pleasure in a clean stall that, moments before, was filled with the stench of waste.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The work results in clean stalls in which my horses will be more comfortable. It makes a safer environment for them because the bacteria-laden manure is not left as a breeding place for disease. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When the wheelbarrow is full, I roll it to a hole that needs to be filled, and dump it. Nothing is wasted. In a year or two, the manure and hay will degrade into composted soil that will make a happy home for grass or flowers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I pray as I scoop out the waste. Earlier this week, I had a conversation with the Lord that went a little like this:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Whew. Calli sure was busy last night, Lord. There's a mountain of pooh in here. I could smell it when I walked in the barn."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I scooped for a bit, then something occurred to me. "Lord, I hope my sin doesn't seem as unattractive to You as this stall is to me."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That Still, Small Voice didn't hesitate for a moment. It wasn't an out-loud voice, but in my heart, I knew. "It's much worse."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I leaned on my scoop and pondered that for a while. The stench of sin rises up to the Lord, just as our offerings of praise and love rise up. Our prayers are a sweet smelling incense to Him. Our sin is not. It's offensive and foul. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our job as disciples is to muck out the stalls of our hearts every day and remove the droppings of sin and our encounters with the world. When we do, we present a sweet-smelling home in our hearts for our Lord to reside. When we don't, we risk the disease of sin breeding in our hearts and minds. We also leave an odor that's unpleasant to the Lover of our souls. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, let's take a closer look at our hearts. Is there anything there that needs to be "mucked out?" If so, let's do the work of repentance until it's done so that we can present our Lord a heart that's beautifully cleansed. Done daily, the job is repentance is quick work, so let us not delay. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Those controlled by the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are controlled not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you." Romans 8:8,9 BSB</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"And the smoke of he incense, with the prayers of the saints, went up before God out of the angel's hand." Revelation 8:4 nasb</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/footprints-in-snow.html">Footprints in the Sno</a>w</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-79999797588828227512018-01-20T06:28:00.002-06:002018-01-20T06:38:25.893-06:00Footprints in the Snow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">An unsullied expanse of snow is a beautiful sight. To preserve the recent pristine white as long as possible, I tried to walk along the edges of the sidewalk. The stretch of snow in front of my house made it, intact, nearly to the end of the cold. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The last morning, I walked out the front door, headed to the barn. I took my usual edge-of-the-sidewalk route but, after a few steps, noticed something unexpected. Large footsteps marched in a row, right through the center of the snow. They were a male's prints, and considerably larger than mine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What in the world? I thought. After another moment, I realized the source of the snow disturbance. The UPS man had boldly walked straight up the path to the door. Every step had left a clear impression in the snow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As I stared at the evidence he'd left behind, as well as my own footprints in the snow, I realized an important truth. Where we walk, and how, are more important than we realize. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Every step we make leaves an imprint, though not often visible to us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jesus' instructions to the disciples rang in my heart. "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men." (Mark 1:17 nasb) If we choose to follow Him, we, too, must walk in His steps, both where and how He walked. How? It was because of God's great love for us that Jesus came, and it that same love for which He persevered all the way to the cross. If we are to walk as He walked, then, we must walk in love - for God and for others.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In eternity, we'll see the impact our steps have made. Unfortunately, not all of mine will have left a positive impact. I can't change my wrong steps, but I can make better choices for the future. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, let's ask God to give us a glimpse of our own footprint. Do my steps draw me closer to Him? Does every step lead someone else closer to Christ, as well? If not, pray that God will direct our paths in such a way that He will be glorified and honored by our life's journey, all the way until He leads us home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Your ears will hear a word behind you, 'This is the way, walk in it,' whenever you turn to the right or to the left." Isaiah 30:21 nasb</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed yesterday's post, here's the link: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-growing-your-faith-retreat-and-how.html">The Growing Your Faith Retreat and How You Can Be a Part</a></span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-65142580288368254452018-01-19T06:56:00.000-06:002018-01-19T11:29:38.766-06:00The "Growing Your Faith" Retreat and How You Can Be a Part<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wZ2YlFmbrN8/WmHhtxMLPUI/AAAAAAAAEIQ/lX80gXX4eBAuhSYsl5LA8Me7jO2pYChSgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wZ2YlFmbrN8/WmHhtxMLPUI/AAAAAAAAEIQ/lX80gXX4eBAuhSYsl5LA8Me7jO2pYChSgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_9247.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For months, women have been meeting to plan and prepare for an upcoming retreat. We've prayed for God's perfect plan, and we hope we have it. Three churches have joined together to sponsor a women's renewal retreat at FCR at Crow's Neck in late February. (Bethlehem United Methodist Church, Ingomar Methodist Church, and Amaziah Baptist Church) </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The theme is <b>Growing Your Faith,</b> and I'm excited about speaking. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After Sam moved to my house, we met via phone/FaceTime. A couple of weeks ago, we were finally able to meet in person. The sweetness and unity of spirit was amazing. These ladies are kind and loving, and the choices they've made for the meeting reflect their gentle hearts. I think those who attend will be so blessed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sherra Owen will share some of her knowledge of Mississippi plants, and Emily Manning will share an art performance. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'll be leading in the study/learning sessions. We'll have small group sessions and large group worship time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">How do I prepare for such a big conference? The same way I prepare for every day of my life. I pray for God's direction. Read Scripture on the topic. Memorize passages that are pertinent. I ponder. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It takes a lot of time to prepare because <i>my</i> life needs to be the first one that's actively growing, actively repenting, actively changing. I can't teach what I don't live, so I have to have my act together in order to prepare.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I don't use a speaking script. Instead, the words must be planted deep in me in order to come out at just the right time. Sometimes, I'll use an index card with a few Scripture passages to remember written on it, but not always.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I tell you this because I need your prayers. We expect God to move in the lives of the women who attend. We expect we'll all leave changed. For that to happen, those in leadership need humble, servant hearts. I need an humble, servant heart most of all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Please pray I'll be ready and have exactly the right words and teaching tools. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ladies, you, too, can be a part of this precious weekend, but space is limited so sign up soon. Here are the details:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Grow Your Faith Retreat</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">FCR Camp at Crow's Neck</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">February 24-25, 2018</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cost: Full conference $70</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Saturday only $35</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Check or cash only</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mail check to Laura Pannell, 1549 CR 478, New Albany MS 38652</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There's a Growing Your Faith facebook page where you can ask questions and learn more. Be sure to connect with us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I hope you'll join us for this fun retreat. I can't wait to see what God does.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15 esv </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">_________________</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed yesterday's post, here's the link: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-importance-of-head-protection.html">The Importance of Head Protection</a></span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-16758219843871718652018-01-18T06:58:00.002-06:002018-01-18T10:06:51.483-06:00The Importance of Head Protection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I can still hear my Mama say, "You need to put your toboggan on, or you'll catch your death of cold." The connection between wearing a knit cap and preventing viral infections seemed iffy, at best. If I ever put that cap on, I don't remember it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've rarely worn hats, baseball-style caps, or knit caps. When temperatures recently dipped into the single digits, however, headwear became considerably more attractive. I dug in my glove-and-cap basket until I found a knit cap that must've been twenty years old. It was gray, had a hole in one side, and fit about like draping a piece of fabric over my head. It slipped off at least twice every time I wore it to the barn and required constant readjustments to keep it in place.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yesterday, my gray cap fell off when I leaned over to scoop some manure from one of the stalls. That was the final straw. I threw the cap in the garbage. When I went to the feed store, I bought a new, bright red knit cap with a pompom on top. The style was most suitable for a child, but it fit my head and stayed in place.<span style="color: red;"> </span>I wore it home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I know the importance of covering your head to prevent heat loss, but I've never bothered with it before. This week, I've reconsidered my decision. Today, I'll wear my new cap to the barn and, likely, to the office, as well. I'm tired of being cold, so I've decided to protect my head. My Mama would be so proud.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There's another kind of head-protection that's even more important than wearing a cap in cold weather. We're constantly bombarded by worldly words, opinions, and images from social media, news outlets, books, television, movies, and music. When we </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">allow these influences into our mind, they have a significant impact on our thoughts and our actions.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The responsibility to guard our minds and hearts is ours alone. We're not accountable for what's available, but we are accountable for what we choose to do with it, and how we allow it to change us. Does it make us more like Christ or not? If not, why do we choose to fill our minds with it? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, let's take a serious look at the influences we allow into our minds. Would Jesus choose them? If not, should we? Let's be sure to protect our heads <i>and</i> our minds.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence, and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things." Philippians 4:8 nasb</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/resolution-check-how-im-doing-on.html">Resolution Check: How I'm Doing on Getting Things Done</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You might also enjoy: </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2017/06/making-choice-and-choosing-path.html">Making a Choice and Choosing a Path</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2017/07/pigpen-parables-place-of-piggy-heart.html">Pigpen Parables: The Place of the Piggy Heart</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2017/12/intentionality-changing-wanna-be-into.html">Intentionality: Changing Wanna Be Into Got'er Done</a></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-87128958775566183812018-01-17T08:04:00.001-06:002018-01-22T20:11:36.108-06:00Resolution Check: How I'm Doing On Getting Things Done<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7jcePnyZCwA/WmaYn8ytJXI/AAAAAAAAEJk/QpnOWZGh1GcEXALo1d8qB2BaOg6yKDQCwCLcBGAs/s1600/jessica-lewis-512224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7jcePnyZCwA/WmaYn8ytJXI/AAAAAAAAEJk/QpnOWZGh1GcEXALo1d8qB2BaOg6yKDQCwCLcBGAs/s320/jessica-lewis-512224.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The temperature is 4 degrees outside. Instead of face the sub-zero wind chill, I decided to check my planner to see how I'm doing with New Year's resolutions. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm not as far behind as I thought.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I resolved to <u>memorize Scripture</u> this year, a chapter a month. The first chapter of John has been quite a challenge, with 51 verses. By this point in the month, I should have 25 verses memorized. I'm not there yet, but I do have 16 verses memorized and am working on the 17th. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">How have I managed it? I spend a few minutes memorizing every morning, but I also ponder the verses and find applications in my life throughout the day. I try to live the Scripture I'm learning by soaking in its truth.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Two weeks into the month, Scripture memorization is already becoming a habit. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My mentoring partner and I are holding each other accountable, as well. We agreed to quote the verses we'd learned in our Sunday morning time together. As you might imagine, I practice hard to be sure I'm ready. <u>Accountability</u> is key. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"<u>Take a blogging course</u>" was on my list for January. I signed up for a four-part online course. I'm through the prequel course and 1/3 of the way through the main course. It's harder than I expected and taking more time than I wanted, but I'm learning critical skills. I'm stopping to practice what I've learned, which nails the knowledge down and assures I understand the material.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Get at least 10,500 steps every day</u> was also one of my goals. Yesterday was the first time I fell short, with just under 9,000 steps. I should've finished out my goal on the elliptical, but I worked on a writing project until late. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you want lots of steps, put horses in the barn at night and walk back and forth. Add cleaning out the stalls and you'll have more steps than you can imagine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One simple <u>lifestyle change</u> has made all the difference.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm supposed to be following the <u>DASH diet</u> this year. Less salt and meat. Lots more vegetables and fruits. A weekly pot of vegetarian vegetable soup helps me meet my vegetable requirement, and a supply of fruit in the crisper has made the difference with the fruit requirement. (I'll do a different blog post later on specifics) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Weather and limbs on fences have prevented a few outings and meetings I'd planned, but there's still time. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Reading 100 books this year is also on my list. I've finished seven already. (I'll do a blog post on how-to's)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The most important part of sticking to my resolutions was in the making. I prayed about every area of my life. What changes were needed? How should they be done? It's not an accident that Scripture memory is the FIRST resolution on which I work every single day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I didn't stop after praying about my resolutions. I pray about my to-do list and about how to get it done, too. Specific, goal-directed prayer is a critical part of my daily life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've already begun to tackle some of the most challenging areas in my life and I'm making progress. How? Because I've made a plan, stuck to it, and prayed it through. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What are your resolutions for the year? What changes did you plan to make? It's not too late to meet your goals. Make a start now, take consistent steps, and you, too, can have an amazing year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>The mind of a man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps." Proverbs 16:9 nasb</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/when-snow-doesnt-fall-six-ways-to-deal.html">When Snow Doesn't Fall: 6 Ways to Deal with the Disappointment of Unmet Expectations</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You might also like: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/how-to-change-2018-from-just-getting-by.html">How to Change 2018 From Just Getting By to Simply Amazing</a></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;">Photo by </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/fJXv46LT7Xk?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Jessica Lewis</a><span style="background-color: whitesmoke; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/search/photos/check-list?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a><br />
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-89589122691617253292018-01-16T07:10:00.003-06:002018-01-16T13:04:31.487-06:00When Snow Doesn't Fall: Six Ways to Deal with the Disappointment of Unmet Expectations <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Last night, the local TV station reported a winter weather advisory with a band of snow approaching Northeast Mississippi. My home is sandwiched between the areas expected to get 1/2 - 2 inches of snow and 1-3 inches. It would start, the forecast said, around 2 am. Snow would hamper our morning travel.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I, along with snow-loving children of all ages, went to bed expecting a scene of fluffy white this morning. I awakened before 5 am and thought, "SNOW!!!" What a disappointment it was to look outside and see the usual brown winterscape and patchy remnants of ice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My dogs were both miserable during the recent ice storm. They hated walking on the cold, slick layer. Mamie stopped after only a few steps and refused to go even an inch further.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Snow, however, is a different story. Maggie's experienced a big snowfall before. She loved bounding through soft, powdery snow. I think Mamie would love it, too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There isn't any snow, though, and I'm surprisingly disappointed. It's moving slower than expected, the morning forecaster said, and it'll be here in a couple of hours. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Snow's coming, or so they say.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've been disappointed about snowfall before. I don't know whether to hope or not, so I'm proceeding with my morning routine, doubtful it will be disrupted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Expectations bring excitement and energy. They're fun, until they're not. Unmet expectations break our heart, fuel anger, and breed bitterness, don't they? We've all had them: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">- the job offer we expected but didn't receive</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">- the cancer that wasn't cured</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">- the raise we hoped for that wasn't given</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">- the child who strayed</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">- the pregnancy that never happened</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">- the spouse who wouldn't go the distance</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">- the death that came too soon</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">- the health that didn't last</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What we expect isn't always what we receive. When the unexpected and unwanted arrives, we can greet it one of two ways. Accept its arrival with anticipation that God will use it in a positive way in our lives or allow anger and disappointment to direct our responses. It's all too easy to become bitter and push away those who would comfort us and help us through.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">How, then, can we deal with disappointment in a more productive way?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. <u>Start by giving thanks</u> for the positive blessings we've already received: A roof over our heads, warmth in cold weather, food on our tables, friends or family who love us, a God who never leaves us nor forsakes us. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. <u>Release anger quickly</u>. According to an article cited by <a href="https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/features/how-anger-hurts-your-heart">Webmd.com</a>, people with unresolved anger issues are 19% more likely to have a heart attack. Seething anger is accompanied by a cascade of consequences that can be worse than the disappointment we've experienced. Choose to let go of anger and replace it with peace. (Ephesians 4:26) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. </span><u style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Look for the lesson</u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u> </u>in the disappointment. Is our health issue due to poor choices? What can we learn? How can we make better choices going forward? Was our raise denied? Is there something different that might make it a possibility later? (James 1:2-5)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. <u>Embrace change</u>. It's easy for suddenly-widowed women to be overwhelmed by the increase in responsibilities and physical work that must be done. Choose to learn new skills. Missing a promotion may be an opportunity to start a side-business of your own. Try a new health skill. Walk a little further every day. Maybe God's doing a new thing. It'd be a shame to miss it. (Isaiah 43:19) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. <u>Grieve well</u>. If the unmet expectation is a result of loss or death, take time to grieve. Give yourself extra grace. Tears will come at the most unexpected times. Let them fall. Navigating through grief takes time. Don't get in a hurry. (Lamentations 3:31-33) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. <u>Choose hope</u>. As believers, our hope is in Christ alone. We look to a future in heaven when we'll be reunited with all those we love. Healing will come. Joy will return. Hang on to hope. (1 Thessalonians 4:13) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We all experience the disappointment of unmet expectations. How we respond to the hard times determines, in large measure, how life will look on the other side of hurt, sorrow, or loss. We can allow our faith to sustain us. We can demonstrate the power of the light of Christ to a dark and lonely world. We can, if we will. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." Isaiah 43:19 esv</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/martin-luther-king-day-on-making.html">MLK Day: On Making a Difference By Taking a Stand</a></span></div>
Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-73576590569386633392018-01-15T07:13:00.004-06:002018-01-22T20:29:09.563-06:00Martin Luther King Day: On Making a Difference By Taking a Stand and Living What You Say You Believe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This morning, as I pondered what to write on the celebration of Martin Luther King Day, the stark contrast between the Poor People's Campaign and last year's Women's March came to mind. I envisioned the mule-drawn wagons and the women wearing vagina-style attire, and shook my head. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have no idea what the women hoped to achieve nor what they protested. Those ridiculous hats are all that stuck in my memory. Did they accomplish what they hoped? I doubt it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I will never forget Reverend King's march, however, nor the civil rights for which he protested. Did he accomplish what he hoped? Yes. His protests didn't change every heart, every circumstance, but they changed a lot. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We live in a far different society, in many ways, than the one in which I grew up. We can all enter by the same door, sit in the same waiting room, eat in the same restaurants now. If we work hard, we can all go to college, get a good job, make a nice living for our families. We can attend the same church and worship together, side by side. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was not so when I was a child, for the color of your skin determined your opportunities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One man saw injustice, prayed it through, then took a stand. He endured threats and persecution, yet he persevered. Photos taken on the day before he was killed show a man who knew what his actions were about to cost him. He knew he would soon be killed, yet he pressed on because he had taken a stand for right and he would not back down. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's one thing to talk a good line. It's another thing entirely to live what you say you believe. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Where are the people today who take the kind of stand Martin Luther King took? Where are the people today who live what they preach in the public arena?</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I wrote the words you're about to read last January, but they're as pertinent today as they were then. I'm repeating them, because I can't write it any better.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've sat here for an hour, trying to find a topic for today's blog. The visuals echoing through my mind are the photo of one of the women's march participants shrouded in a vagina costume and the ones of the women in various stages of undress, slogans painted across their bare chests.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If a picture is worth a thousand words, what do those pictures say? </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'll let you draw your own conclusions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are all kinds of protests, but the one that I've never forgotten is the Poor People's Campaign, organized by Martin Luther King. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I didn't understand what it meant, but I knew it was important. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Protestors left Marks, Mississippi in mule-drawn wagons, headed toward Washington D.C. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was the spring of 1968, not long after Rev. King was assassinated. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My mama carried my sister and me to see the protestors. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We parked on the side of the road and stood beside the car. Silent. Watching. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The mules, heads down, pulled the wagons. Protestors sat quietly as the mules walked, the wheels turned. It was slow progress, but it was real.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There was no doubt in my mind that something powerful was happening. I didn't understand it, but I knew, at the core of my being, that life would change. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And it did.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">No one dressed in vulgar costumes. No one shouted obscenities. No one waved blasphemous signs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They counted the cost and took a stand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That one protest will always be the epitome of effective protest for me. Quiet. Peaceful. Intense. Powerful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Not everything was rosy and beautiful when they reached Washington, but that moment in time, watching at the side of the road, stands out in my mind. It's a sharp contrast to protests like the recent Women's March on Washington. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I recognize that there are still inequalities. I'd like to see them corrected, and I've tried to accomplish that very thing. I went to college, then medical school, worked hard, made it through. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There was sexual harassment. I took it for a while, then </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I counted the cost and took a stand. When I spoke up, it was clear I meant business. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I didn't shout, carry a sign, or wear a costume. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When I stood up to the bullies, they stopped, because that's what bullies do. They back down when confronted.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I practiced medicine, worked hard, made it through. No one bullied me. No one treated me differently because of my gender. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I know inequality still exists. I expect that, as long as there is evil in the world, inequality in some form will always exist. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I know that most of the protestors probably dressed in regular clothes. The media has, as usual, shown us the most outrageous, because that's what draws views and makes money. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm not opposed to peaceful assembly and I support the right to free speech. I'm not opposed to the recent march. I'm not even opposed to costumes that look outrageous to me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My grandmama taught me something, though, that we'd all do well to remember. Especially the people in the vagina costumes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Actions speak louder than words.</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"... let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." 1 John 3:18 niv.</i></span></div>
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W<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">e demonstrate who we are (and whose we are) by what we do, so we'd do well to choose our actions wisely. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The most effective protestor of all time was Jesus Christ. He entered a world filled with violence, poverty, oppression, and cruelty, and He chose love. Every single time. He chose sacrifice. Open-handed giving. Equality. Peace.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In a male-dominated culture, women traveled with Jesus, and demonstrated, by their lives, the power of Christ to transform. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After the resurrection, His followers chose love, as well, and that love was unstoppable. It changed the world and turned it right side up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I doubt I'll ever protest with signs, slogans, costumes, or marches. I hope to spend the rest of my life protesting the evil in this world by choosing love. Demonstrating love. Giving it freely and without complaint. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From helping at soup kitchens to collecting supplies for the homeless, to helping rebuild homes after disasters (and everything in between), I want to be a change-agent of love in this struggling world.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, look for the evil, inequality, and injustice around you and take a stand. Make a difference. Protest like Jesus did, and let your actions help change the world. Pursue mercy and justice. Use words if you must, but protest with love. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"And now remain faith, hope, love, these three, but the greatest of these is love." 1 Cor. 13:13 nasb</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed yesterday's post, here's the link: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/when-answer-to-our-prayer-is-much.html">When the Answer to Our Prayer is a Much Needed Delay</a></span><br />
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#MLK #MartinLutherKingDay<br />
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-31708428566080112092018-01-14T06:57:00.000-06:002018-01-14T07:13:28.078-06:00When the Answer to Our Prayer Is a Much-Needed Delay <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before I let the horses out Friday morning, I walked the fence to be sure it was still intact after the storm. My frigid journey through the ice wasn't because I want a fine-looking fence, although I do, but because I want the horses safe. If they get out and on the road, an accident, with catastrophic injuries to humans and horses, is far too likely. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I found a big cedar tree down, but it had fallen away from the fence. A large oak limb had smashed, but not broken, the wire closer to the barn. It was at least eight feet long and about as big around as a whole frozen chicken, admittedly an odd comparison.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The wire was pressed down enough that I could easily step over it, so it would be no problem for the horses. One step and they'd be out of the fence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The limb had to go. When I went back to the barn for supplies, the horses were seriously unhappy. They were not on their best behavior. Whinnying. Pawing at the door. Stamping their feet. <span style="font-size: 12pt;">They wanted out of their stalls, and they didn't care why I was delayed.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">When the fence was repaired and the pasture was safe, I opened the stall doors. The horses raced out the barn door without so much as a nuzzle of thanks for me. I'd kept them safe, but their only concern was getting what they wanted...out of the barn. </span><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">I wonder how often I've prayed in that same horsey way - demanding what I want with no concern for why God might have waited to answer with a yes. Was there a danger from which I was protected by the delay? Was He preparing something special for me or for those for whom I prayed?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">All too often, I presume that I should receive what I want when I want it, but there was a reason Jesus told us to ask for God's will and not our own. His way is best. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Waiting time isn't wasted time.</span><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">He has a reason for the delay, every single time. God is at work, even when we don't see His hand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Today, let's give thanks for His delay and look for the lesson in the waiting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>"Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Matthew 6:10 nasb</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/working-from-immediately-and-getting.html">Working from Immediately and Getting More Done</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here are a few more blog posts you might enjoy:</span><br />
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<a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2017/08/when-you-have-plan-but-god-has-better.html"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When You Have a Plan but God has a Better One </span></a><br />
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<a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2017/09/when-you-give-up-techniques-so-you-can.html"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When You Give Up Techniques So You Can Prayer Powerful Prayers</span></a><br />
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<a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2017/06/when-what-you-most-need-has-been.html"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When What You Most Need Has Been Prepared and Waiting for Fifty Years</span></a><br />
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<a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2017/06/when-what-we-expect-is-not-what-we-get.html"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When What We Expect Is Not What We Get</span></a></div>
Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-79559772186729646362018-01-13T07:08:00.001-06:002018-01-13T07:08:28.474-06:00Working from Immediately and Getting More Done<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our pastor is teaching through the book of Mark. This past Sunday, he announced his passage for the next week, as he always does, and suggested we read the first chapter in preparation. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm ashamed to admit this, but I don't alway do the homework. This week though, I determined to be a diligent student. A pastor friend of mine once told me that he studied one hour for every minute he would spend preaching. I tend to use that formula when I'm preparing to teach or speak, too, but I don't usually use it when someone else is preparing to speak.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For a change, I read the first chapter of Mark every day. I was half-way through the morning's reading and realized something unexpected. This chapter is rich and full of great lessons. I can't wait to hear what part of this chapter he will teach tomorrow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I realized another important truth this morning, too. The answer to the question I've been asking God is on this page. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fun, to me, is to get a lot of things done. I love a long, written list to start the day IF I can end the day with every item marked off. I hesitate to say it's a perfect day to me, but it's a pretty great one. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My schedule is full, but not as full as it was the last few years when I was taking care of my neighbor, Sam. <i>That</i> was a full schedule that literally went round the clock. I have some free time now, and I hate to waste it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">How should I use the extra time to get a lot more done? That's what I keep asking myself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I found the answer in the 45 verses of Mark 1. IMMEDIATELY. Mark used that word forty times in his account of Jesus' life, because it describes how Jesus used His time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When He had something to do, He did it <i>immediately</i>. He didn't make a list, ponder how He would do it, or get distracted and do five or six other things before He got to the one thing He intended to do. He didn't stop to look up something on His phone and end up spending an hour there. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What would it look like if I did things <i>immediately</i>?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1. When I awaken in the morning, I'd get up immediately, instead of lying in bed, halfway between sleep and waking, wasting another fifteen minutes (or more).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2. When I'm finished using something, I'd put it away, rather than leaving it where I used it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3. When I remove my clothes at night, I'd take them to the laundry chute and drop them down to the laundry room, instead of leaving them on the floor of the bathroom to accumulate until there's a big pile.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4. When doing laundry, I'd fold and put away the clothes as soon as they come out of the dryer or off the clothes line.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">5. When I start to work online, I'd keep at it until I'm done, instead of taking a segue to something else.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">6. I'd stop putting off and start doing. <i>Immediately</i>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yesterday, I decided to give <i>immediately </i>a try. I had a bit of fence to repair because of a fallen log. My chain saw wouldn't start, as usual. I thought about calling someone with a functioning saw to help, but, because of <i>immediately,</i> I used an old hand saw to cut the log. It was hard, but took less time than walking back to the house, charging up my phone, calling someone, and waiting on them to arrive. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was tired from sawing and wanted to spend a few minutes congratulating myself, but I didn't. I set to work on the wire and a new t-post. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When that was done, I realized I needed to add a couple of staples to tighten the wire. What I wanted to do was let the horses out and take a break. I considered it, but <i>immediately </i>came to mind. I went back to the barn, put a few staples in my pocket, grabbed my hammer, and headed back to the fence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I didn't stop until the fence was finished. Then, I let the horses out, put the tools back in their places, and took a break. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was a snow day, and I wanted to spend the rest of the day drinking hot tea before a roaring fire. Instead, I made a pot of soup and, while it simmered, I resumed work on my blogging course. In the spirit of <i>immediately,</i> I kept at it until 5 pm. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I took an occasional break to get a cup of tea, start a load of clothes, or switch them to the dryer. <i>Immediately</i>, though, I returned to my work, every single time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yesterday, I studied my Bible, wrote a blog, cleaned out stalls, prepped the barn for the falling temperatures, repaired a fence, and did four lessons in my blogging course. I also washed, dried, and put away a load of clothes, made soup and cornbread, cleaned the kitchen, and dreamed about my new blog (planned blog topics). I replied to emails, helped a missionary with a crisis, comforted someone in their grief from hundreds of miles away, and cast a vision for a new outreach. Before I was done, I had a clear picture of the new project and so much enthusiasm about how it would be done that I wanted to start the preparation <i>immediately, </i>but it was way too cold for any more outdoor work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">All of that, and more, before 5 pm. How was so much accomplished? Because I worked from <i>immediately. </i>I completed many tasks, but I still had time to text with my family, dream, cast visions, and plan because I didn't waste time. I didn't watch TV or YouTube videos. I didn't play games on my phone. I didn't scroll through Twitter or Instagram or SnapChat. I simply did what needed to be done.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you'd like to use your time wisely, and accomplish more than ever before, why not give <i>immediately</i> a try? If it worked for Jesus, it will work for us, too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I can't wait to hear about your <i>immediately </i>day, so be sure to check back and comment about how it went. Have fun!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"And Jesus said to them, 'Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.' And they immediately left the nets and followed Him." Mark 1:17-18 nasb</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed yesterday's post, here's the link: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/choosing-suffering-rags-when-healing-is.html">Choosing Suffering Rags When Healing Is a Few Steps Away</a></span><br />
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-86299548856712795322018-01-12T07:55:00.000-06:002018-01-12T07:57:35.205-06:00Choosing Suffering Rags When Healing is a Few Steps Away <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pos7DmDL_lw/WliyGVFltJI/AAAAAAAAEGg/JVJYF0PRVBAd7SOqxT1qVVAPVrthPjhNQCLcBGAs/s1600/chapernaum-ruins-2-1202571-1280x960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pos7DmDL_lw/WliyGVFltJI/AAAAAAAAEGg/JVJYF0PRVBAd7SOqxT1qVVAPVrthPjhNQCLcBGAs/s320/chapernaum-ruins-2-1202571-1280x960.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We stood at the entrance of the synagogue in Capernaum. Ruins of the village stretched before us. Enough of the stones were in place to give a clear outline of houses, rooms, common areas. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"I wonder which of these was Peter's house," someone said.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"You're looking at it," our guide explained. "Under the modern building ahead. It was built over the site to protect it." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Peter's house, where his wife's mother lay dying, was only a few feet away from the door of the synagogue. I stared at the site and pondered what it must've been like that day...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mrs. Peter was probably at her mother's side, desperate with worry. It was before the time of aspirin and acetaminophen for fever, so she probably dipped soft cloths in cool water and made compresses for her mama's head and body. Maybe a few of the other women hovered nearby, ready to assist, or weep and wail, as the situation unfolded. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Help was only a few feet away, but their hope was in a bowl of water and a damp cloth. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Peter was with Jesus, who, it was reported, could do miracles of healing. While the men stood in the synagogue and listened to Jesus read from the Torah, Peter's mother-in-law's condition worsened. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By the time the men left the service, she was near death. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Jesus walked out of the synagogue and <i>immediately</i> went to Peter's house. Someone "spoke to Him about her" and, <i>immediately</i>, He went to her. He didn't wait for someone to wash His feet, serve Him tea, or offer him a snack. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">He went to her, reached out His hand to her, and drew her up. By the time she reached a sitting position, her fever was gone. That good woman didn't waste a moment lounging around. She didn't rest and recover. She rose up from her bed, healed, and began to serve her Healer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I want to be like Peter's mother-in-law. I want to be the one who experiences the touch of Christ, receives healing, and immediately serves.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm afraid, however, that I'm sometimes like the women with the damp cloths, desperately making compresses to lower fever, when healing of the disease is available for the asking. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Friends, we serve a wonder-working, immediately-acting Lord who hears and responds. He cares about us. Today, may we give up our suffering rags and bring our needs to the One who stands ready to hear and help all who call on His name.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"And immediately after they had come out of the synagogue, they came into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon's mother-in-law was lying sick in bed with a fever, and immediately they spoke to Him about her. And He came to her and raised her up, taking her by the hand, and the fever left her, and she waited on them. And when evening had come, after the sun had set, they began bringing to Him all who were ill and those who were demon possessed...And He healed many..." Mark 1: 29-32, 34a nasb</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/horses-and-humans-and-tendency-to-wander.html">Horses and Humans and the Tendency to Wander</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">photo above courtesy of <a href="http://freeimages.com/">freeimages.com</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here's a link to a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWlkVGHlBAk">video about Capernaum and Peter's house</a> if you want to see the ruins. </span><br />
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<br />Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-27996088199437819252018-01-11T05:56:00.000-06:002018-01-22T20:38:20.312-06:00Horses and Humans and the Tendency to Wander <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EtBS5LM21xI/WmafDwAJ3xI/AAAAAAAAEKA/rMR0VNHz2rYRVigbAG_AiONmKOeCPXhLQCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_11f9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1086" data-original-width="1600" height="217" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EtBS5LM21xI/WmafDwAJ3xI/AAAAAAAAEKA/rMR0VNHz2rYRVigbAG_AiONmKOeCPXhLQCLcBGAs/s320/fullsizeoutput_11f9.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dusk had begun to fall last evening before I headed to the barn to feed. Just outside the tack room, I saw a deep indention in the soft, moist soil. A hoof print. I groaned. The fresh track could only mean one thing. At least one of the horses was out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I opened the back door of the barn. Two horses trotted inside to their stalls. Belle looked at me from the other side of the fence. She was out of the pasture, and not at all happy about being separated from her herd.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once I'd redirected her to the stall, I walked the fence line to find the problem. I was nearly to the far corner when I found it. Just before the New Year, Ryan and I had worked that stretch of fence. I thought the wooden post, though not perfect, was good enough. It wasn't. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The post in which I'd put my trust was flat on the ground, the barbed wire still attached. It was no problem for a curious horse to step over the downed post and explore the adjacent ground. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Belle had probably wandered a few steps over the fence, nibbled a little grass, wandered a few more steps. In no time at all, she was separated from the other horses. Later, she noticed her plight but was too far from the opening to easily return. Judging from her hoof prints, she'd paced back and forth in front of the barn, uncertain what to do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Robert Robertson's 18th century hymn, "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing," uses a phrase that describes the human condition quite well. We, like Belle, are "prone to wander." A missed quiet time here, a skipped church service there and before we know it, we've wandered away from our church fellowship and from a close relationship with our Lord. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The purpose of the fence is to keep the horses in a safe place, with easy access to the shelter of the barn and the blessing of twice-a-day feed. The purpose of the restriction of our faith is not to keep us from something good or pleasurable, but to protect us from harm and give us easy access to the blessings of God. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Belle could only be restored to the rest of the herd by surrendering to my direction and following me to the barn. In that same way, we will be restored when we recognize our situation and surrender to our Lord, who stands ready to lead us back to Him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, let's do a proximity check. How close are we to our Lord? Our fellow believers? Have we wandered? Failed to follow in any area? Do we feel separated from God? If so, the solution is simple. Recognize our plight and cry out to the One who longs to restore, then follow where He leads.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his should form death and will cover a multitude of sins. James 5:19-20 nasb</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/when-god-of-universe-knows-our-name.html">When the God of the Universe Knows Our Name</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">photo courtesy of freeimages.com</span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-31673477275794304822018-01-09T07:15:00.002-06:002018-01-09T07:15:50.665-06:00When the God of the Universe Knows Our Name<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S84w2594Fow/WlS6Pmpm-iI/AAAAAAAAEFg/RhB_MqBkk08xBe4ofkOSLA5kOejsAKXKwCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_11db.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="640" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S84w2594Fow/WlS6Pmpm-iI/AAAAAAAAEFg/RhB_MqBkk08xBe4ofkOSLA5kOejsAKXKwCLcBGAs/s320/fullsizeoutput_11db.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The settings section of my phone lists my name. It's correctly spelled every single time. Seri, however, has a little trouble with the pronunciation. Her "Leanna" often sounds nothing like my name. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That's been a lifelong problem for me. When I was a girl, the usual combination of "Lee" and "Ann" was Leanne, not Leanna. Sometimes, Leanne was spelled "Leigh Ann." My name was uncommon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The efforts at pronunciation were even worse than the spelling difficulties. I've been called Leanner, Leeanne, Louanne, and Leander, among others. Because of the confusion surrounding my name, it's precious to me when someone gets it right the first time. It's also caused me to take note of others' names and try to get them right.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday, I was speaking with a group of teenaged students. They aren't usually the most welcoming group, and not often as responsive as I'd like, but I made an effort to learn everyone's name. For once, their names "stuck" in my head.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I began to speak, I called the students by name and invited them in to the conversation. It caught them off guard, and they participated in a way they never had before. Not all their stoniness crumbled, but a little of it did.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some of the names were non-traditional and multi-syllabic. They weren't easy names, but they were no less important to the students. Last evening, I pondered our time together. I'm convinced using their given name correctly made a difference. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This morning, I'm reminded that God knows our names. He never misspells them nor mispronounces them. He gets them right every single time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When the Good Shepherd calls a sheep, it's generally grazing, satisfying it's hunger. A sheep is trained to stop nibbling, look up, and follow. It's life and safety depend upon the promptness of its response. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The difficulty in following Jesus is not whether He knows or uses our name. It's not even whether or not we hear Him call us. He calls. We hear. We know we're supposed to obey. The difficulty comes when He requires us to walk away from our grazing and follow Him. Will we stop our efforts to satisfy our own hunger and allow Him to lead us to greener pastures? To lusher grazing? To still water?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He calls us by name. Our job is to respond, and to do it instantly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today, let's listen for the Master's voice and choose to turn from seeking our own satisfaction and follow Him. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Corbel, Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>"To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out." John 10:3 esv</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In case you missed yesterday's post, here's the link: <a href="http://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/finding-good-in-midst-of-hard.html">Finding Good in the Midst of the Hard</a></span>Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-34726236438404911102018-01-08T06:18:00.003-06:002018-01-08T06:19:09.248-06:00Finding Good in the Midst of the Hard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Horses, like humans, have distinct personalities. Toby, my first horse, has always been sassy and full of zip, but he's slowed quite a bit. He's more than thirty years old now, and his personality is a little more zap than zip. He's slower to come up than he used to be and his final days are near.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When it comes to eating, he's especially slow, and it shows in his gaunt physique. I've added extra feed, wormed him more often, checked his teeth. No change. He's always been thin, but he's gotten thinner as the years have passed. "Just like me," Sam always said. "We're both thin. It don't matter a bit." </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Most of the time, I feed the horses together in one trough at the edge of the pasture. The younger horses eat quickly. Toby chews on every bite. It takes him a while, and he's often at the trough long after the other horses have wandered away. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hay's always available, so he's never without something to eat, but I've worried about him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When single-digit weather came, I moved the horses to the pasture behind the barn and started feeding them in stalls again. The first day, the young horses were finished eating long before Toby. I waited a bit to turn them out, and Toby finished his grain.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Last night, I dumped feed in Toby's pan and ran my hand down his side. He was still lean, but his ribs weren't quite as prominent. He'd gained a few pounds since he'd been in the barn. "Hey, Toby, I think the freezing weather has helped you, old buddy." He kept his head in the feed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The cold snap brought low temperatures, ice, frozen pipes, and extra work, but the effort hasn't been wasted. Toby's a little better. It's a bit of good in the midst of the hard.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've been through plenty of hard times in my life, but one thing's been true of every difficulty. There's always something good in the midst, IF we're willing to look for it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today, let's spend some time considering our own difficulties. What growth has God brought from it? How are we becoming more like Him? How has blessing come from the hard? Let's look close to find the good, and be sure to thank Him for what He has done.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?...But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us." Romans 8:35, 37 nasb</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-method-in-madness-and-learning-from.html">The Method in the Madness and Learning from the Land</a></span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2521914693636230360.post-5948228663655699912018-01-07T15:16:00.000-06:002018-01-23T06:26:33.168-06:00The Method in the Madness and Learning from the Land <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ym0MtdmT0U/WmcpLDqIC9I/AAAAAAAAEKQ/8_JW8FRXUww7Z_sGQS7fh-se82vytSaIQCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_11fa.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ym0MtdmT0U/WmcpLDqIC9I/AAAAAAAAEKQ/8_JW8FRXUww7Z_sGQS7fh-se82vytSaIQCLcBGAs/s320/fullsizeoutput_11fa.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A dear friend commented about yesterday's blog:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"I remember reading about the frigid temperatures of the past and thinking, 'Why doesn't she just sell those farm animals, freeing herself of all that work?' Hauling water by wagon to those animals was beyond me. But, through the years, I've learned that's part of who you are."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Many people feel the same way about my animals. Yes. I know I could have an easier life if I sold whatever is causing my current challenge. Easier, however, does not always mean a richer life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I didn't grow up with livestock or horses, but there was always a picture in my head of black and white cows on rich, green pastures. When I arrived at the farm for the first time to "take a look," I saw the picture in my head in living color, alive and breathing in the field. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I was home.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Within a few months, I had a farm, chickens, guineas, a horse, and a farm hand, Sam. Toby (pictured above), now 30+ years old, was my first horse. He taught me to ride and jump ditches. He quieted my fears. Once a week, I rode across the land on horseback to check fences and pastures. I soon bought a second horse, and Sam rode along. Those were some of the sweetest days of my life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before long, I had cows, a bull, and calves. I love cows, and their slow, gentle meandering. I love to see their babies running and playing in the fields. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I sold my cows a few years ago, and I've regretted that decision many times. I'm not ready to tie myself down to cattle again, but I miss them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My husband left the animals to me most of the time, but Ryan loved them as much as I did. The year he learned to ride the horse alone, he spent most of the summer riding. I took sandwiches to him so he could eat lunch on horseback. He and Toby were inseparable. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Ryan joined 4-H and our fun really began. He showed cows, horses, goats, and pigs. It was a wonderful time of life, and we both grew up in many ways during those years. He still rides the horses in pretty weather when he's home. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What I seldom talk about is the picture that's still in my head. Long before I came to the farm, I envisioned a place where women could come to retreat for a day or two, get exercise taking care of small animals, and learn about health, and life, and faith. I envisioned families coming to camp in tents, long before "glamping" was a word.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The picture's still in my head, a vision yet unfulfilled. The animals are a part of who I am, but they're also a part of what I still expect to do, one day in the not-too-distant future.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Part of that vision is already a virtual/digital reality, as you share my adventures through the words I write. Selling the last of the animals and leaving the farm would mean giving up my dream. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One day, I believe it will be an actual reality.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm willing to wait.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I recognize that the life I've chosen is not the life most women want, and that many people can't understand. For me, this life is not just a choice, it's who I am. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I see God in the animals, the azaleas Sam and I planted, the lake, the fish, and the grass in the pasture. I see God here, and that means everything to me. It's my refuge, but it's also a place of worship for me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There's nothing holy about my land, but holiness begins to happen here, because I leave the noise of the world behind and focus on Him. I'm refined here. I sort out the issues of the day here, and there's no where else on this earth that happens with such depth and efficiency. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'm never closer to God than right here on this farm. I commune with Him as I muck out stalls, feed horses, and haul water. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What's more precious than that? Nothing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In 1989, God placed me on this land. He put the dreams in my heart, and He's made some of them a reality. I love this life, with all its challenges and hardships. I don't have the kind of life many of my friends have, but, to me, I have so much more. The dream continues to unfold, and, as long as God allows, I'm hanging on for the ride. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's the sweetest place I know. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>"Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 esv</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">__________________</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: <a href="https://leannahollis.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-frost-proof-faucet-in-box-and.html">The Frost-Proof Faucet in the Box and the Blessing of Second Chances</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The photo above is my first photo of the farm and was taken on a walk over the land with Sam and my banker-friend, Steve Taylor, when I was exploring the option of buying my property.</span></div>
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Leanna Lindsey Hollishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15926314467650368798noreply@blogger.com0