Namesake Ministries

Easter

2011-04-23T15:47:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter!

i am so thankful for what God has allowed over 2,000 years ago. He offered up His one and only Son for the world. every event from scripture has been flooding through my mind this past week and it has been very hard to pen my thoughts (well, type them out!!).

i hope i can do it better today.

this italian is allowed to be a part of God's family. He has saved, healed, delivered, preserved, renewed, washed, protected, disciplined, forgiven, taught, and loved me... M E ~ i am thankful!

triumphal entry; temple cleansed; signs & wonders & lots of questions; teachings; Mary anoints Jesus; betrayal plot; passover preparations & celebration; beginning of Lord's supper; denial prediction; the garden ~ Jesus praying; betrayal executed; the arrest; the trials; 3 denials; 1 freed; the beatings; the cross; the death; the sky & veil & graves opened; the burial; the resurrection; an empty tomb; His appearances; the great commission; and His ascension!

last night we watched "The Prince of Egypt" as a family. and i got a better appreciation for why God had His people retell this Exodus Story to their children every year. He sent His deliverer and he was a foreshadow of The Deliverer ~ The Prince of Peace. i have known this portion of scripture for 23 years and it still amazes me how fresh God can make it and the wonder full things He reveals!!

sisters it is vital to recall to mind all that the Lord has done for you as a person and what He has done for mankind. we must share this with our children as well. in all your celebrating take some time for remembering and thanking.

you are loved with an everlasting love ~ Laurie Kay

extreme saving

2011-03-31T21:15:00.000-04:00

saturday i went to an extreme coupon class & i was wicked excited about it and have been talking non-stop to anyone/everyone i see!!

o my gravy!!! where to begin??

ok...so, this class was a total God-given gift to me ~ i said to myself one day last week "there has to be a way for me to save more money on our food" see ~ i want to make home improvements n such, but i don't want to go over in my budget.

i read many books & followed many websites, but i needed to see with my own eyes "live examples". i am a visual learner. i know i'm not stupid ~ i had all A+'s throughout my school career ~ so why couldn't i save more money a month on our food & household items??

well, just like Daddy ~ 2 days later my girlfriend MR posts on fb about the class. {gLoRy B 2 GoD!} i didn't blink or ask my man if i could go. i just responded count me in & can we carpool?? then, i went and told my hubby about it and "officially" asked. i believe in submitting to my husband like it says in ephesians 5:22 & colossians 3:18 ~ so if he needed me to be home for anything, i would have backed out. well, PrAiSe GoD!!! my hubby likes to save money.

so i went.

andria alexander was her name and simply frugal living is her aim!! on that you can quote me! dude she knows her stuff. i was on the edge of my seat listening/laughing/learning & getting diZZy!!! o my stars ~ she covered everything you need to know to shop financially smarter. "every" thing!!

i have a new best friend & a stalker i will be *kidding ~ on the stalking* i spent almost 2 hours with her this morning and i gotta tell you ~ she has a heart to save you money all for the glory to God. she has a heart for women. and she loves Jesus & o, i love that!!!!

sistas ~ she is organized, knowledgeable, patient, & compassionate ~ must i go on here!!??!!

r u interested or curious yet???

then go check out her site ~ simplyfrugalliving.com ~ it is jam packed {like how you have to properly measure brown sugar~ that kind of packed}. there are sooo many common sense-frugal-simple tips for living. and let me tell you ~ not living like a beggar but living well or as she says "extravagantly"! o & she is also on fb. so go on there and "like" simply frugal living

she will be having more classes & trust me, you will want to be there. i will keep you posted here and on fb about dates & times.

happy extreme saving & God bless you sistas ~ laurie kay
ps ~ i learned soo much that to start writing what i learned i would end up writing you all a book. sooo, hope i didn't disappoint ya & if i did ~ hugs to you & i'm sorry

me ~ a bouncer & about today

2011-03-30T15:09:00.000-04:00

o my gravy, i have been so excited to share with you what i have been up to the past few days ~ today i am going to talk about my rockin' friday night & today!!

*friday night ~ i volunteered at the SHE event at my home church ~ rebecca st james; evie tornquist; & rebecca's brothers ~ joel & luke were our entertainment for the evening

my job was to be the "bouncer" of the good seats ~ o my gravy! i was pumped ~ bring it, bring it!! *kidding*

OK, let me start with a funny thing {well, to me at least} ~ the good seats were called the "gold seats" and the tickets for that section were pink. the "general seats" had purple tickets ~ i thought that was comical & so, i threw my head back and laughed loudly "hahaha!!" for simplicity, i think we should have called them pink seats & purple seats ~ but that's just my cRaZy idea!!

there were at least 20 ladies that i had to "bounce out" of the good section because they had "general seats". some were gracious & some not ~ hopefully they knew it wasn't personal, but, that i was just doing my job {God bless you dear ladies!} i think we needed more signage ~ i don't think that they were "stealing" seats ~ but, if they were, they got bounced!! i did what i was told to do ~ do i get a star sticker or smiley faced sticker for that????? nah ~ they gave me a few pieces of chocolate ~ divine reward indeed!!!

next, a few women came late {a lot actually, but i didn't count} ~ poor things got stuck in construction traffic! {can you believe that there would be construction traffic that would cause delays in the 'burgh??} well, they were very upset that there was no seat available for them in my "gold seats" ~ see, we were told {by the ticket powers that be} that we should allow for x amount of seats in the "gold seats" section and they {the blessed ticket powers that be} said they sold x amount plus some ~ yikes!!

also, the seats/tickets weren't marked {like: Row 4 Seat 4} so, ladies sat as close to the front as possible & as close to the other dear ladies as i instructed them ~ see, i had a feeling that we would have some late comers and i didn't want too many people being disturbed by having someone step over them. who likes that??!!??

well, even with our very good planning {tx AB, LY, TB} i still had quite a few women yell at me that there was no where for them and the ladies in their party to sit. they were mAd. now, dude, i don't want to separate a mom and a daughter at an event that is for moms with their daughters!!! totally not groovy, right!!??!! so, i understood their plight and took action!

guess what happened??!!??

i bet you can't ~ i grabbed a mic and jumped up on the platform steps and gave a hello shout out and please in the name of our dear sweet Jesus can you shift your seats!! see, some rows had one seat on the one end and one seat on the other that were each empty ~ and as graciously as i could i asked them to shift down to help the sistas out ~ and they did ~ great job ladies!!! 'burgh hospitality at work!

OK, so there still wasn't enough seats {remember the plus from above??} i had to move seats around. o baby, i was rockin' n a rollin' alright and in my sparkly high heels ~ 4 penny-sized blisters later and i am still smiling about the night!! i grabbed loose "general seats" and put them into the "gold seats" section.

*a funny* i was movin' around the seats and a dear older lady helped me and i "thanked her soo much for offering to help serve these other women" and she said ~ o, hunny no problem! well, insert foot into mouth ~ it was none other than evie!! i am so sorry to say, i didn't know who she was ~ she just laughed about that when i "officially" met her at the end of the night!! she rocks!!!

so, yeah, there i am ~ multi-award-winning artist rockin' on the stage n me movin' around chairs!! but hey, i drug some over and made room. everyone had their seats. tickets were not seat numbered so some rows had odd amounts of people in them. but hey, when we come as a group we are going to stay together ~ i totally get that and so did the gals who needed a seat. it became ~ all good.

*serious note* i got yelled at about this ~ apparently i made a few fire hazard moves. the isles got smaller. i thought it was the lesser of 2 evils ~ because the worst would have been to ask the "general seat" ladies to move back even further. i am sorry for making a few fire hazard moves. they paid for the "gold seats" i felt inclined to give them to them & never thought i was endangering someone ~ again, i am so very sorry.

Dear Jesus, i thank you that we didn't have a fire or another emergency that night. thank you for your protection ~ Amen!!

at the end of the night, i helped to clean up the sanctuary & the foyer. then the autograph lines went down and i went over to meet rebecca & evie. evie remembered me ~ i guess that is groovy :o) and i asked them each to sign my bible. they said yes, and i opened to the almost empty page and they each said "ruth graham signed your bible!!" and i said "the daughter". and they giggled. ~ i spoke to them separately as there were 2 autograph lines ~ one for each woman ~ so, i thought it was really funny that they each said the same thing and then giggled!!!

when i met ruth at our church years ago we hung out before her talk and after. she was so inspiring and at the end of the day, i confessed to her that prior to that day i had no idea who she was and she thought that was comical. i told her about how much i was blessed by her mom's writings and then she called herself ruth graham "the daughter". so that is what i lovingly call her. still moved & motivated by that sweet sister & i can say "the daughter" rocks too!!

so, those are my funnies about friday night ~ it was so great to see my sistas out in numbers fellowshipping and praising our God!!

*today ~ i was supposed to exercise with AK ~ but her lil one was ill-ish ~ so, we did it together alone! so, i spent the morning exercising, cooking lunch and baked a few cookies for the kiddos. then i blogged to you. tonight: family time ~ sign on door will read ~ do not disturb unless you need us ~ cuz we are chillin'!! *kidding ~ again*

God bless you sistas ~ i hope you have a great day ~ laurie kay

wandering mind interrupted

2011-03-25T12:53:00.000-04:00

i was at bible study the other week...we were doing priscilla shirer's ~ discerning the voice of God ~ we just had our small group time and went into our large group - watching the dvd time...we settled in and priscilla started teaching...about 10 min later my mind wandered!!

i was thinking about nothing ~ no-thing ~ and yet i wasn't hearing her. so being the good christian girl that i am...i started to yell at myself in my head ~ hey, you better pay attention young lady...this is important stuff here...it's God's Word...we take this very seriously...get one solid truth from this lesson and walk in it. God wants to talk to you laurie kay!!

BOOM ~ thunder n lightning baby!!

priscilla's next words were something like this - as she looked directly into the camera- there are some of you out there who are in ministry and you are thinking you should just stop because the numbers are so low...it seems to you that this really isn't what God wants you to be doing...and then she went on teaching...i looked around like - did that really just happen here!!??!!

i was in shock

her point in the study was that when it seems like we are in "desert times" we need to keep doing what we are doing because God is equipping us with dedication. He wants me to be dedicated to Him...His plan...His destiny for me. He will lead me to what i can not see...then she shared with us the scripture below and i felt Him say to me...go back out there again!

Luke 5:4-6 (nkjv) When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking.

so what does that have to do with me...or thunder or lightening you may ask??? well, just a few weeks prior i was thinking those exact words about namesake ministries. now, i have always said that i didn't care about the numbers...so why is it that everyone around me judges success by numbers...people would ask how an event went - i would answer - and then they would say - so how many people showed up?? and no matter the number i gave their response was always - o, maybe it will be better next time.

f r u s t r a t i o n ~ from the people n their words

great "c o m f o r t" in my interruption

i always said - i have a lot to learn and am thankful to be learning what i am now while i am young - that i should not despise humble beginnings - this is a time of growth for me and the ministry

i needed to hear that word spoken in due season from her bcuz it WAS due season indeed!

so, no matter the numbers - i will do what i feel Daddy wants me to do - may i live dedicated to Him!

i am so glad this girl was interrupted
grace & peace ~ laurie kay

Where in the world has LK been??

2011-03-24T20:56:00.001-04:00

i haven't blogged since january 1st of this year...yikes...not groovy at all.

i have been too preoccupied with life to get on here and chat about it...and i had a few gals ask me on facebook why aren't you bloggin'??

well, cuz i've been facebookin'!

actually, i haven't done much of either lately. i have been writing more tho ~ bible studies and "real book" kinds of stuff.

let me be honest...blogging has seemed like a chore...i was told i should do it...then i thought that it needed to be "formally" done as if it was going to be critiqued or something. that doesn't make me want to write anything.

so, i have decided if i'm going to blog...i'm doing it my way...no formal english/grammar rules applying here...just what is on my mind n heart & then just how i feel like writing it at the time!

so that is where i've been...here but not "here".

**i also want to say...i have many dear sistas who read this blog and they are english/grammar guru's...i know these things may bug you "big time"...i am so sorry...i need to write it how i feel it and not worry about formality...please excuse my "weirdness" and read as if you are talking to me face to face over a cup of warm java and we are enjoying each others company immensely and don't want to leave...that is how i want to write to you...i love you my brilliant & beautiful & blessed sistas of mine!!

grace 2 u and peace from our God & Father and our dear Lord Jesus Christ
love u ~ laurie kay

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T10:02:00.000-05:00

It's a new year. Are you excited? Are you dreading it? Or...does it feel like "just" another day?

I am very excited. There is something about a fresh calendar that reminds me that God makes all things new ~ Rev 21:5.

I have some big goals for this year, well, improvements that I would like to make ~ be healthier physically & spiritually; be a better mom; be a better wife; be a better friend. As for the rest of life, I pray God gives me wisdom for each thing as it comes up and discernment & then strength to walk in it!

I pray you all have a healthy & happy new year in Him!!
Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 31

2011-01-01T09:50:00.003-05:00

December 31

Please read today’s scriptures out loud. I inserted the Old Testament scriptures for you to go back and read.

Matthew 2:13-23 (NKJV) Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.” When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.” (Hosea 11:1) Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying: “ A voice was heard in Ramah, Lamentation, weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, Refusing to be comforted, Because they are no more.” (Jeremiah 31:15) Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, “He shall be called a Nazarene.”

Jesus is the fulfillment of all the law and prophets (See John 1:45; Acts 28:33; Matthew 5:17). Our amazing God became Man to save, rescue, heal, deliver, preserve and help you and me. This makes me so thankful ~ stop right now and thank Him for all He has done for you.

Tonight is New Year’s Eve ~ a time of celebration. Many people tell their loved ones, “If you are going out tonight, please, be safe.” Did you see the great lengths God went to to provide safety for His Son? He knew what was going to happen when His Son came into the world. He knew all this before the foundation of the world and He planned out every detail then ~ none of this is a “Plan B”. (See 1 Peter 1:20) He told the prophets.

In dreams He warned Joseph (Three times in this section of scripture) about what they needed to do right when they needed to do it. Our God is great and greatly to be praised!

Let this New Year be a year of seeking God’s wisdom and direction for you and your family. Then walk in it, praising and thanking Him every step of the way.

He will lead you and guide you into all truth and make known to you the way you should go ~ because He loves you so much!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 30

2010-12-30T09:27:00.003-05:00

December 30

Luke 2:36-38 (NKJV) Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

This is an amazing section of scripture in so many ways. This is the only scripture in which the Prophetess Anna is mentioned, but it speaks volumes about her.

Notice the scripture says she was “of a great age”…and the math equals about 91 years past her virginity…so she’s gotta be older than 100, right!!??!! Our culture is very disrespectful of the elderly in our communities. We don’t want to “hangout” with them, learn from them, or even think they do anything fun or important. It is so sad. I have a lot of sweet sistas who are of retirement age.

If you are an older woman I hope you are encouraged that your best days are not necessarily behind you, but they can be in the now and also in the future. If God can bless Anna in her “greater” years ~ He can and wants to bless you as well! We do not hit a certain age and then poof we are no longer valuable or useful in His kingdom…that, my sistas, is a lie from the enemy ~ so don’t listen to it or think it!

From what this scripture says about her and from what I have read about biblical widowhood, Anna is a faithful woman of the Lord. She lived her life in His service ~ for His glory. It says, “…who did not depart from the temple”. From that I take that she clung to God ~ He really was her life and length of days ~ her all in all.

“And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord,” …this makes me think that the Spirit told her who Jesus was. He was Who she was looking and longing for. She was blessed to live and see Him.

It also says, “and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Can you imagine all the people she would tell? It says she was at the temple serving God day and night. I have to think, with her being a woman, that she could not contain herself but told everyone she saw.

Can you even imagine it, you are going about your day, serving God and then there He is, the One prophesied about is right before you. She was blessed indeed!!

So, where are you right now? What might you need to do with this lesson? Has God convicted you of anything? Have you been encouraged by this scriptural glimpse into the life of Anna? If you have been convicted, then be quick to repent and obey what He is saying to you. If you are encouraged ~ bless Him.

Let’s all praise Him for His goodness, faithfulness and love. He is so good to us and just like Anna ~ we are blessed indeed!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 29

2010-12-29T11:05:00.002-05:00

December 29

Luke 2:25-35 (NKJV) And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

I love Simeon.

This portion of scripture is such comfort for me. There is so much to share and you need to do a lot of work today, so, start out in prayer. Ask God to enlighten the eyes of your understanding so that you would see wonderful things in His Word. Ask Him to help you gain a heart of wisdom from His Word. Ask Him to speak fresh and new to you during this time.

Things to notice and ask for God’s wisdom and guidance:

*Simeon was just and devout ~ what does that mean?

*He was waiting for the Consolation of Israel ~ what does that mean?

*The Holy Spirit was upon Him ~ why is this specifically mentioned?

*The Holy Spirit revealed to him that he would see the Lord’s Christ before he died ~ how does that make you feel?

*He went to the temple that day led by the Spirit ~ do you think that the Spirit told him that Jesus would be there or just that he needed to go; and why do you think that?

*Simeon took Jesus up in his arms and blessed God ~ he held Him…it makes me cry…how precious that is to me…to hold Him ~ embrace Him…did he hold Him like we do with our little baby…nuzzling Him in love and affection ~ what do you think about this?

*To thank God for letting him depart in peace ~ what a way to live before you die…he beheld God’s Son ~ what are your thoughts?

*Salvation for all peoples ~ all peoples ~ light of revelation for Gentiles and glory of Israel ~ what does that mean to you?

*Simeon’s words made Joseph and Mary marvel ~ how much marveling can one person take ~ think about all the Lord had done for them.

*He says to Mary ~ not Joseph ~ about the piercing of your own soul…I would love to know why not Joseph too ~ what are your thoughts?

These will be great things to learn from Him face to face! Praise Him for His Word, girls, and the time you spent with Him!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 28

2010-12-29T11:00:00.001-05:00

December 28

Matthew 2:1-12 (NKJV) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: ‘ But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’” Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.” When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.

Today is a fun lesson!!

We are just going to raise questions for you to think about and answer…so have fun! If you need help, do searches on the internet…use a variety or sources – put in the questions; look up this section of scripture in commentaries. You will not be disappointed in the time you spend searching for answers.

*Do you notice that this scripture uses the term wise men and not kings ~ they were Magi ~ which are astrologers. Why do people think they are kings? Who are they really?

*They go to Herod thinking that they would find the newborn King. Do you think that they may have thought that Herod had a son who was to rule?

*It says men but no number is given…many people believe there to be three because there were three gifts given. What do you think?

*They came to worship Him. Why?

*Why didn’t Herod send any of his own men with the wise men?

*The star is not still…"it went before them and stood”, why was the star moving?

*At some point they did not see the star because it says, “when they saw the star they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy"? Why are these Magi so joyful?

*It says, “they had come into the house,” why not stable, cave or barn?

*Why are gold, frankincense and myrrh the gifts?

*Who warned them in a dream and why?

I hope you had a great time thinking through this scripture. Did it come alive in a new way for you? I pray it did and I hope you have a great day!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 27

2010-12-27T09:58:00.001-05:00

December 27

Luke 2:21 (NKJV) And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.

Today lets focus on Jesus…who is He? Start in prayer and ask God to open your eyes so that you would see wonderful things from His Word today. Read these scriptures out loud ~ sometimes we “see” new things when we read and hear them at the same time. Then let the Words sink into your soul.

John 1:1-5 (NIV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.

Isaiah 60:1(AMP) ARISE [from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you--rise to a new life]! Shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you!

Psalm 119:105 (AMP) Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

John 8:12 (AMP) Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the Light which is Life.

Isaiah 9:2 (NIV) The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.

Isaiah 42:6 (AMP) I the Lord have called You [the Messiah] for a righteous purpose and in righteousness; I will take You by the hand and will keep You; I will give You for a covenant to the people [Israel], for a light to the nations [Gentiles],

Isaiah 60:3 (AMP) And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 26

2010-12-26T18:10:00.003-05:00

December 26

Luke 2:8-20 (NKJV) Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

I really love that God chose to announce His only Begotten Son’s birth to shepherds first. These shepherds were “living out in the fields”. They were not the wealthiest people; they were also not in the most sought after job position. What are your thoughts about God’s choice?

We have seen a lot of encounters where an angel appeared to a human…but here it also adds that “the glory of the Lord shone around them”. After the angel gave the news and what the sign was to be ~ it says, “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” It was not just one angel that came down for this announcement…but a multitude of heavenly host.

I love that, after the angel and multitude of heavenly host leave, the shepherds make haste to see this Babe that they are told about in such a dramatic and fabulous way. They make it all known and all marvel. “Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.”

Oh my gravy, what a night they had! I would be on cloud nine for years from that experience…it would consume my thoughts…how amazing to even try and imagine it all! I can be pretty creative in my day-dreams, and I still think that even what I imagine can’t compare with what really happened…I don’t think Hollywood could even come close to illustrating this scene…what do you think? Can you even imagine this majestic scene?

Glory to God in the highest!!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 25

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December 25

Luke 2:1-7 (NKJV) And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Merry Christmas!! It is Christmas Morning! All our devotional time has been working up to this very day. I pray you have a very merry and blessed day in Him, beloved. As you face your day, remember the greatest gift ever given ~ Jesus.

We have spent so much time in His Word and in prayer ~ seeking Him for help, wisdom and strength ~ that you should be “armored up” and ready to face anything that comes your way. When you are faced with “that relative” who may be a thorn to you ~ be a blessing. Show the love and grace that you have been shown. All the patience He has had with you ~ give that out.

In fact, pray for your day right now. Pray for the things/people/situations that have been difficult in the past. Pray that those people come to know Jesus and live for Him. Pray that today would be so different from every other time your family gathered that it be a “day only God could have made” kind of day.

Seek peace. Seek love. Seek Jesus.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 24

2010-12-24T09:16:00.001-05:00

December 24

It’s Christmas Eve ~ it’s finally here! All that we have been working towards is coming tomorrow. So today we are going to have another Selah Day. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day from Day 1 to Day 23. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG.

Please remember: don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us and, yet, taking intentional pauses and reflecting or meditating on His Word can yield great profit for your inner man.

It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?

Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions.

Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.

Enjoy this new day in Him!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 23

2010-12-24T09:12:00.002-05:00

December 23

Micah 5:2 (NIV) "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."
John 7:42 (NIV) Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David's family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?"
1 Samuel 16:1 (NIV) The LORD said to Samuel, "How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king."

I can’t help but think of the Christmas carol O little town of Bethlehem.

O little town of Bethlehem / How still we see thee lie / Above thy deep and dreamless sleep / The silent stars go by / Yet in thy dark streets shineth / The everlasting Light / The hopes and fears of all the years / Are met in thee tonight / For Christ is born of Mary / And gathered all above / While mortals sleep, the angels keep / Their watch of wondering love / O morning stars together / Proclaim the holy birth / And praises sing to God our King / And Peace to men on earth / How silently, how silently / The wondrous gift is given! / So God imparts to human hearts / The blessings of His heaven. / No ear may his His coming, / But in this world of sin, / Where meek souls will receive him still, / The dear Christ enters in. / O holy Child of Bethlehem / Descend to us, we pray / Cast out our sin and enter in / Be born in us today / We hear the Christmas angels / The great glad tidings tell / O come to us, abide with us / Our Lord Emmanuel.

I like that this song mentions the real reason we celebrate Christmas. I do not see this song as “worshipping the town”; rather, it is just an acknowledgement that, though Bethlehem was small, it was chosen by God to be the city for the birth of His only begotten Son.

It also reminds me that God does not pick out only the rich of the world, the wisest, or the sharpest dressed to become His children ~ He opens the invitation for us all to come to Him. We all can bend our knee to Him ~ believing in our heart and confessing with our mouth the Lord Jesus ~ and, by so doing, we shall {not might or maybe, but shall} be saved.

Look at David, he was the youngest and not in the line-up of sons before Samuel, the prophet; he was out tending the flock. God says none of the sons in the line-up are to be the new king ~ but, when David comes in; God says he is the one.

How does this make you feel that God is not looking at things the way that we sometimes do…or that He doesn’t pick things the way that we would?

He is amazing in His love for us all. Praise Him for calling you out of your sinful life to be His daughter…I am so glad that you bent your will to follow His. Keep seeking God’s will & walking in His path.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 22

2010-12-22T07:19:00.002-05:00

December 22

Matthew 1:22-23 (AMP) All this took place that it might be fulfilled which the Lord had spoken through the prophet, Behold, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel--which, when translated, means, God with us.

Isaiah 7:14 (AMP) Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign: Behold, the young woman who is unmarried and a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel [God with us].

John 1:14 (NIV) The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Emmanuel or Immanuel means God with us. Let these words sink in. God with us ~ He is not far off ~ He is not with us sometimes ~ He is not with certain believers or special Christians ~ He is God with us.

According to some dictionaries, the word “with” is a function/action word and so He is not just present with you, in you, or being with you. He is for you ~ actively working or participating with you. You are the object of His attention and affection because of Jesus ~ not just for your good but for His glory. He is over you ~ your ruler and watchman. He is on your side. You are in His possession and in His care. He is with us in spite of us.

Now, you may be asking how can you get all that out of that phrase…well, that is what the blessed dictionaries and concordances are for, my friends…I took what I found in them and reworded it here for you. All of these statements can be backed up with scriptures. He is not just present or dwelling inside us…He is active in us for our good and for His glory!!

What does that do for you? Does it make your heart sing? Does it give you hope, peace, or strength? Since God is with you ~ present and active, how might that affect your present situation? How can these scriptures become alive in your daily life?

Find some other scriptures that confirm these truths. Ponder them as you go about your day.

Praise Him today that He is with you ~ He is in you and actively moving in your life! Glory to His name!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 21

2010-12-21T07:59:00.002-05:00

December 21

Luke 1:67-80 (NKJV) Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:“ Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life. “ And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.” So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.

John 1:6-8 (NIV) There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.

Isaiah 40: 3 (AMP) A voice of one who cries: Prepare in the wilderness the way of the Lord [clear away the obstacles]; make straight and smooth in the desert a highway for our God!

Yesterday we talked about what it might have been that Zacharias shared with the people that they then discussed…I gave a few thoughts about this. Now let’s look at what happens next.

The wording within these two sections of scripture makes me think that “the sayings” and “Zacharias’ prophesying” are two different things. Yesterday, it said, “and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings (so what did he speak??) were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him. (And today) Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied,” (emphasis mine)

If we think about this it is awesome that the story of God reaching down in Elizabeth and Zacharias’ life touched so many people and brought people closer to God. Elizabeth and Zacharias’ reproach among the people was taken away so much so that God then used Zacharias to prophesy about his son who would eventually testify to the Light.

Praise your God that you are His child and He is your God. Reread the scriptures and have a blessed day!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 20

2010-12-20T10:06:00.002-05:00

December 20

Luke 1:21-22 (NKJV) And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.

Luke 1:57-66 (NKJV) Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her. So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.

I used to be puzzled as to why Zacharias was made mute…and then it hit me…God was not just punishing his unbelief…He was using it for His Glory and to bless those who knew Zacharias and Elizabeth. Notice it says that, after he wrote down what the baby was to be called, everyone marveled. Then God opened his mouth and loosed his tongue.

The first words out of his mouth were praises to God…then fear came on all. Also notice that the sayings Zacharias shared were discussed throughout all the hill country. It seems to me that they truly understood all that had happened and that is why fear came upon them. Could this be what Zacharias shared with them?

1. That all the things that had happened in Elizabeth and Zacharias’ life leading up to the birth of their son had happened for a reason.

2. That their son was the one to prepare the way of the Lord and that he had been prophesied about over 400 years before.

3. Every detail of the angel’s announcement.

4. That the Messiah was coming.

God used Zacharias’ muteness and his “sayings” as the means to spread the news that the Messiah was near. God was on the move again. It had to be an exciting time for them…something to be talked about and discussed. I can see people asking questions like this, “So what exactly was prophesied about this child and the Messiah?”

What are your thoughts about this portion of scripture? Spend time in prayer and rejoice in God for today and for the blessed fortune that you have to be able to read His Word and learn from Him ~ He loves you.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 19

2010-12-20T10:03:00.001-05:00

December 19

Luke 1:46-56 (NKJV) And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.” And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.

This is Mary’s response to Elizabeth after she said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.” Luke 1:42b-45 (NKJV)

Elizabeth ends by saying, “blessed is she who believed”. Then Mary goes right into praising God for who He is not just for what He had done for her. To be used by God in such a way, Mary must have had a humble spirit and strength of character because those attributes shine forth in Mary’s response. She says who she is ~ His maidservant and, by praising God first, she shows that her heart’s desire is for Him to be magnified. She is blessed, happy, and fortunate ~ because He who is mighty has done great things for her.

Mary models how we should respond to the mighty acts that God does for His children. Praise Him…give Him the glory and honor due His name…tell others what He has done with humility so that He alone is magnified. This is such a good lesson for me…I want all I do and say to bring Him glory and honor…I want Him to be praised by my life ~ through my deeds and my words & for Him alone to be magnified.

Help us, O Lord, to live lives that are worthy of You ~ fully pleasing to You. Help us to walk in the path You have laid out for us and be glorified. Help us to learn and grow in You for Your glory and honor, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 18

2010-12-18T12:37:00.003-05:00

December 18

Luke 1:39-45 (NKJV) Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”

I love that Mary goes with haste to see Elizabeth. Is she running off to see someone who might understand her situation and encourage her? Or maybe she just wants to see for herself that Elizabeth is indeed with child and rejoice with her that she is no longer barren. Or is she just staying there a while to be out of sight while she is pregnant? We will see tomorrow that Mary stays with Elizabeth about three months and leaves right before Elizabeth delivers. So, whatever the “exact” reason…Mary goes in haste and stays to help for a while. As a woman, I like that she goes and I have to think it is a good thing for both women. What are your thoughts about this?

Now let’s look into this part: when Elizabeth hears Mary, the baby leaps in her womb. This is so sweet to me. If you are a mother you can relate to the excitement over your baby moving inside of you. Did your baby ever move at the sound of someone’s voice as if they were happy to hear from him or her? I am thinking of the times when my husband could finally feel the baby’s movement and it seemed that the baby was “playing” with him as he talked and touched my belly.

Think about this for a moment. This is the first time that Mary sees Elizabeth while she is pregnant, and so, little John moves to the voice of a stranger. Now that makes the whole event even more miraculous to me. It’s as if God-inspired knowledge was given to this developing 6 month old baby in utero.
Recall with me it says Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit at her greeting as well. What are your thoughts about this? What do you make of this greeting, their first encounter after being with child? Talk out your thoughts prayerfully with God and pray for this new day ahead of you…I hope it is amazing for you, beloved!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

SIDE NOTE FROM CHRISTMAS

2010-12-17T19:30:00.000-05:00

Is anyone there??? O, Hello!!!

I am so sorry for not posting daily. I have not adjusted very well to having 4 children in 3 different schools. Please bear with me while I try to find balance in life.

Thanks for understanding!!
Laurie Kay

PS ~ I hope you have a very blessed Christmas...God bless you!!

Merry Christmas ~ Day 17

2010-12-17T19:26:00.001-05:00

December 17

Luke 1: 23-25 (NKJV) So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”

Today we see that after Zacharias finished his time of service, his wife Elizabeth did indeed conceive and was no longer barren. She is quoted as saying that the Lord took away her reproach among the people. It was a big deal to be barren in those days…you were looked at as being one who was not receiving God’s blessing or one who was being disciplined for some sin you had committed.

I minister to a lot of women who have suffered with infertility issues, miscarriages, stillbirths, SIDS and infant loss ~ and this is a very hard portion of scripture for them to hear or read. But think about this for a moment…Elizabeth was barren and advanced in her years when God sent an angel down to announce that she would conceive a son…and not just any son…but the one who had been prophesied about some 400 years before and who would prepare the way of the Lord.

Do you think that she would be going crazy with awe and love for the Lord? All glory goes to God here because there was no way for this to have been accomplished without divine intervention. I look at her barrenness not as a punishment, but as a blessing. Think of all the things she learned and the strength she gained in Him before she conceived which prepared her to raise John.

What have you faced this year that was huge? Is there a promise from God’s word that you are clinging to, a desire you are hoping is fulfilled? Does it seem like God is far away from you? Do you feel alone, depressed, forsaken, abandoned, or hopeless?

He loves you so much. I do not know why things are the way that they are now, but be assured, if you are a child of God, you are not forsaken, abandoned or alone ~ He is right there with you. He wants you to take hope in Him and trust fully that He will work your situation for good because you love Him. It may not be exactly how you want it…but it will be that which is best for your life both now and in the future. I know when you are in the heat of the trial or trouble that this is the last thing you want to hear or believe, but it is true. Hold tight to Him, trust Him, and abide in Him.

Ask God for strength, wisdom, and discernment to do His will ~ then do what He says. Keep yourself in prayer and His Word because He will lead you and help you. He loves you so much and calls you His own.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 16

2010-12-17T19:23:00.001-05:00

December 16

Today we are having another Selah Day. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day from Day 9 to Day 15. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG.

Don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us but taking intentional pauses and reflecting or meditating on His Word can yield great profit for your inner man.

It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?

Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned, and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.

Enjoy this new day in Him!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 15

2010-12-17T19:20:00.001-05:00

December 15

Revelation 1:4-6 (AMP) John to the seven assemblies (churches) that are in Asia: May grace (God's unmerited favor) be granted to you and spiritual peace (the peace of Christ's kingdom) from Him Who is and Who was and Who is to come, and from the seven Spirits [the sevenfold Holy Spirit] before His throne, And from Jesus Christ the faithful and trustworthy Witness, the Firstborn of the dead [first to be brought back to life] and the Prince (Ruler) of the kings of the earth. To Him Who ever loves us and has once [for all] loosed and freed us from our sins by His own blood, And formed us into a kingdom (a royal race), priests to His God and Father--to Him be the glory and the power and the majesty and the dominion throughout the ages and forever and ever. Amen (so be it).

Oh, God is so good to you and me!!! Look back at Revelation…it says, “…Who ever loves us and has once [for all] loosed and freed us from our sins by His own blood.” Jesus is the Who and He ever loves us…pause and think this over…He ever loves us. Now look at “once for all” ~ His one time sacrifice was good enough for all ~ for every one and for all times. There is no need for another sacrifice. The scripture in (Hebrews 10:3-5) is referring to the sacrifices for sins, as directed by the Law in the Old Covenant, and, in the Law, the sins were not taken away by the blood of animals. But we, under the New Covenant, are blessed to have our sins taken away because of the precious blood of Jesus…and that once for all. We have been loosed and freed from them ~ from their grip on us.

Have you been freed from sin? Have you had any sins loosed over your life…ones that were once controlling or overpowering you that now have no grip over you? What a blessing it is indeed ~ to be freed by Jesus and to walk in that freedom.

Hebrews 2:17 (NIV) For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.

Jesus had to be made like us ~ to come down to earth and be born as a human. He became a high priest and made atonement for our sins. Now think about this ~ in the Old Testament the high priest offered the sacrifice for atonement and, in the New Testament, Jesus offered Himself as the sacrifice…He was the High Priest and the Lamb for the sacrifice. What does that do for your soul? What kind of comfort do you gain from knowing that Jesus had to become a human baby to then become our sacrifice? It may seem crazy to think about this “Easter” message at Christmas…but, just as it was announced by the angel, that is why the Baby came…the two messages really do go together…the Baby Jesus is the Lamb of God!

Spend time in prayer and enjoy your forgiven-in-Christ-Jesus day!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 14

2010-12-17T19:17:00.001-05:00

December 14

Matthew 1: 18-21 (NKJV) Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.”

There are many good things in this portion of scripture. There isn’t much mentioned about Joseph in the Word of God and it’s good to get any info on him that we can. I love that this text points out to us that Joseph was a just man. He also doesn’t seem to be rushing into things but he is instead very thoughtful. I also love the fact that an angel of the Lord appears to him and speaks to him. These are all some great things to think about and dive deeper into ~ so please do so, it will be fun homework for you.

I feel that for today, however, that we are to dive into the last part, “…you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” Two scriptures come to mind about this ~ please read them out loud and let their words sink into your soul.

Psalm 32:1 (AMP) BLESSED (HAPPY, fortunate, to be envied) is he who has forgiveness of his transgression continually exercised upon him, whose sin is covered. Romans 4:7 (AMP) Blessed and happy and to be envied are those whose iniquities are forgiven and whose sins are covered up and completely buried.

Jesus came to save you and me from our sins ~ does this make you happy? Can you rejoice in this? Are you like, as these scriptures say, “Blessed, happy, fortunate, to be envied?” It’s pretty huge ~ all not just some, all of your sins ~ past, present, and future ~ are forgiven. All your sins are covered up and completely buried by His blood. Linger over this and think about what this means to you.

Spend some time in prayer after pondering these great truths and we will meet right back here tomorrow about this very subject…"for He will save His people from their sins.”

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 13

2010-12-17T19:14:00.001-05:00

December 13

Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

Read the scripture again and out loud this time. Let’s dive into verse 7 now.

*Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end ~ Luke 1:33 (NIV) and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."

*Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom ~ Luke 1:32 (NIV) He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David,

*To order it and establish it ~ 1 Peter 5:10-11 (AMP) And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace [Who imparts all blessing and favor], Who has called you to His [own] eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will Himself complete and make you what you ought to be, establish and ground you securely, and strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the dominion (power, authority, rule) forever and ever. Amen (so be it).

*With judgment and justice ~ Revelation 19:11 (AMP) After that I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse [appeared]! The One Who was riding it is called Faithful (Trustworthy, Loyal, Incorruptible, Steady) and True, and He passes judgment and wages war in righteousness (holiness, justice, and uprightness). Revelation 16:7 (NIV) And I heard the altar respond: "Yes, Lord God Almighty, true and just are your judgments."

*From that time forward, even forever ~ Hebrews 13:8 (NIV) Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

*The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this ~ John 2:17 (AMP) And His disciples remembered that it is written [in the Holy Scriptures], Zeal (the fervor of love) for Your house will eat Me up. [I will be consumed with jealousy for the honor of Your house.] Isaiah 55:11(AMP) So shall My word be that goes forth out of My mouth: it shall not return to Me void [without producing any effect, useless], but it shall accomplish that which I please and purpose, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.

WOW ladies! We spent three days on this one scripture and read many wonderful words of life that helped deepen our understanding of it. I hope it wasn’t too much, but rather, that it inspires you to want to dive deeper into His Word and learn from Him. Enjoy your day in Him, beloved, He is faithful.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 12

2010-12-12T19:30:00.002-05:00

December 12

Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

Today we are going to finish up the second half of verse 6 and, girls, it is pretty deep and oh so good for us to hear!

*Wonderful ~ Judges 13:18 (AMP) And the Angel of the Lord said to him, Why do you ask my name, seeing it is wonderful?

*Counselor ~ Romans 11:33-35(NIV) Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! "Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?" "Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?” Isaiah 28:29 (AMP) This also comes from the Lord of hosts, Who is wonderful in counsel [and] excellent in wisdom and effectual working.

*Mighty God ~ Rev 4:8 (NIV) Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings. Day and night they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." Zephaniah 3:17 (AMP) The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing.

*Everlasting Father ~ Psalm 90:2 (NIV) Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. Isaiah 63:16 (AMP) For [surely] You are our Father, even though Abraham [our ancestor] does not know us and Israel (Jacob) does not acknowledge us; You, O Lord, are [still] our Father, our Redeemer from everlasting is Your name.

*Prince of Peace ~ Ephesians 2:14a (NKJV) For He Himself is our peace, 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (AMP) Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace (the peace of His kingdom) at all times and in all ways [under all circumstances and conditions, whatever comes]. The Lord [be] with you all. Hebrews 7:2 (AMP) And Abraham gave to him a tenth portion of all [the spoil]. He is primarily, as his name when translated indicates, king of righteousness, and then he is also king of Salem, which means king of peace.

You covered a lot today in your devotional time…praise Him for who He is ~ He loves you.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 11

2010-12-12T19:23:00.001-05:00

December 11

Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

I love this scripture. So much hope wells up in me when I read it ~ every time I hear it! As we break down this scripture over the next few days it will look like this: my comment on a specific portion of this scripture, then one or more supporting scriptures. May these words be stepping stones for God to reveal His Word to you in a deeper way.

*For unto us ~ a Child is born, a Son is given ~ that “us” is you and me ~ See John 3:16 (AMP) For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.

*Government upon His shoulder ~ Matthew 2:6 (AMP) And you Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, you are not in any way least or insignificant among the chief cities of Judah; for from you shall come a Ruler (Leader) Who will govern and shepherd My people Israel.; Matthew 28:18 (AMP) Jesus approached and, breaking the silence, said to them, All authority (all power of rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.; Revelations 12:5 (AMP) And she brought forth a male Child, One Who is destined to shepherd (rule) all the nations with an iron staff (scepter), and her Child was caught up to God and to His throne.

*His name will be called ~ notice it says name, not names…think about what is wrapped up in that one name ~ Jesus…here are a few things that are said about “that one name” ~ John 20:31 (AMP) But these are written (recorded) in order that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ (the Anointed One), the Son of God, and that through believing and cleaving to and trusting and relying upon Him you may have life through (in) His name [through Who He is].; Philippians 2:10 (AMP) That in (at) the name of Jesus every knee should (must) bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,; 1 Corinthians 6:11 (AMP) And such some of you were [once]. But you were washed clean (purified by a complete atonement for sin and made free from the guilt of sin), and you were consecrated (set apart, hallowed), and you were justified [pronounced righteous, by trusting] in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the [Holy] Spirit of our God.

For unto you, beloved, God gave Jesus. That is reason to rejoice.

Spend some time in prayer thanking God for who He is, for what He has done, and then seek Him for help in your daily life and any trials or hardships you may be in. He cares about each detail of your life…take it to Him and seek His will ~ He loves you so much ~ so very much!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 10

2010-12-10T09:37:00.001-05:00

December 10

Luke 1:26-38 (NKJV) Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

We are going to look at a different aspect of this scripture today…angels…and, in particular, Gabriel. Does it seem to you that Gabriel was very excited to be sharing this news with Mary? With his first word being “rejoice,” I get the feeling that he was; also, blessed is used, and his news is all summed up with an exclamation point ~ which is not something you see just thrown about in scriptures.

All this then makes me wonder: do angels have feelings…Think about it: they longed ~ according to the NIV; the NKJV says desires ~ to look into these things (1 Peter 1:12); there is joy in the presence of angels…over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:10 NKJV); and Devil…is said to have great wrath (Rev 12:12 NKJV) ~ remember he was a fallen angel. The angels in heaven worship God day and night…and I don’t think that they are robots “just doing their job”…or why would so many have sided with Lucifer and become “fallen angels”? Just makes me think…does it make you think too?

Anyway, back to Gabriel…he was sent to Mary to tell her that she was to carry the “Son of God” ~ did you notice that he “came in” and “departed”. When he came to see Zacharias…it doesn’t mention that he came in or departed…it just said appeared (see December 6). This wording today seems so mannerly and respectful. It just leapt off the page at me and it inspired me! Gabriel had the blessed privilege of giving the news to Mary that she was to carry the “Holy One” and the “Son of God”. I get the feeling that Gabriel is showing reverence for His God. What are your thoughts about his behavior?

I just have to praise Him ~ we serve a great, loving, and mighty God! He is so good to you, beloved…enjoy this day that He has made…rejoice and be glad in it!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 9

2010-12-10T09:33:00.001-05:00

December 9

Luke 1:26-38 (NKJV) Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

Notice with me some key points: Gabriel is the angel sent by God; a city in Galilee named Nazareth is the destination; Gabriel is going to a virgin who is betrothed or promised to a man named Joseph; this man Joseph is of the house of David; the virgin’s name is Mary; she is troubled by the manner of greeting; Gabriel tells her that she will have a Son; this Son will be great and reign forever; she is confused because she has not been with a man; Gabriel explains that this Child will be called the Son of God.

Something that hit me in a new way was that Gabriel did not stop there with those things. To further encourage Mary he told her that her relative who once was barren or unable to conceive had indeed conceived and was in her sixth month. He then said, “For with God nothing is impossible.” He was encouraging her that if God was able to open Elizabeth’s womb then God could fulfill what he had just spoken to her.

She may not fully understand what was happening to her or recall all the prophesies of old, but she knew Elizabeth could not have a child and this angel, Gabriel, said she was now with child. What she says next now makes sense to me…it’s like saying, “I do not understand, but I trust the Lord and so then let it be how you have said.” She yields to God’s will without needing to understand it all.

Is there anything that you have been trusting God for that seems miraculous? Trust in the Lord with all your heart; lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path…He is faithful and trustworthy ~ and He loves you! Give thanks and praise Him!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 8

2010-12-10T09:30:00.001-05:00

December 8

Today we are doing something a little different. We’ve covered so many things on this journey together that I think it would be greatly beneficial to go back and do a review. So, today we are having a Selah Day! For us girls, a Selah Day is a holy pause where we intentionally stop, reflect, and meditate on His Word. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG for that Day.

Don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us but taking a Selah Day can yield great profit for your inner man.

It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?

Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned, and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.

Enjoy this new day in Him!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 7

2010-12-07T21:16:00.001-05:00

December 7

Luke 1:18-20 (NKJV) And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”

Zacharias ~ you just have to love him! His response reminds me of Abraham and Sarah…they too were “older than baby age” and were blessed with a child. And the angel’s response is so funny to me…can I say it like this? “Dude…don’t you know who I am…I’m Gabriel…I live in the presence of God. If I say it is so…it’s gonna be so…cuz I get my orders straight from God and He happens to be The Omniscient One!! And just so there isn’t any question in anyone else’s mind…you’re gonna be mute till it happens! Glory Be to God ~ Peace ~ Out!” And now He’s gone…he came fast and is gone fast!

Yesterday we learned that Zacharias was frightened when he first saw Gabriel. So one has to think that angels don’t look “just like humans” or why would he have been frightened. So I have to wonder, why didn’t he think it would be possible to have a baby? He just beheld an angel! Both are pretty amazing; it’s not every day one sees an angel and it is not every day someone older has a baby. Remember, from what we know in scripture God had been essentially silent for 400 years ~ not sending angels or men to prophesy.

Can you see how the birth of John is so important to the Story of Christmas? His destiny is amazing and vital…I just had to share it with you for these devotions, because I feel this section often gets overlooked. This was important to God. He had it to be prophesied about and then sent Gabriel to tell John’s parents that they had been chosen to parent this child…instead of letting it just happen and them finding out later on…God chose to do it all in an amazing and awe inspiring way.

Let God amaze you today, beloved. He is amazing! He is awe–full ~ or should I say what He does and who He is makes my heart full of awe and wonder! Praise Him, thank Him, and enjoy this day!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 6

2010-12-06T07:11:00.003-05:00

December 6

Luke 1:11-17 (NKJV) Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”

This section of scripture shares God’s plan for John the Baptist’s life ~ he was to turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God; he was to go before Jesus in the spirit and power of Elijah; to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children; and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; and to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

The angel of the Lord essentially tells Zacharias that his son is the fulfillment of the prophecy in Malachi 4:5-6. It is amazing to me that not only was God granting Zacharias a son…He chose to tell him about it through an angel…and also that his son ~ would not be just any son ~ but would be a fulfillment of prophecy. If he wasn’t frightened by “seeing an angel”…how about “hearing” that he had to raise a child who is the fulfillment of a prophetic word that people had been waiting for ~ for over 400 years…now that might be frightening.

The prophecy was given 400 years before and the people of God were watching and waiting for the One who had been promised. To be Zacharias and to receive this announcement from the angel, it would become clear to him that the One promised is coming ~ The Messiah.

What do these truths spark in you? Do they spark thankfulness to God for His fulfilling of promises? Do they comfort you in that, just as He was faithful to send The Messiah all those years ago, He will be faithful in your life today?

Spend the remainder of your time in prayer ~ praise Him for who He is ~ thank Him for what He has done ~ thank Him for speaking to you through His Word ~ ask for any help you may need from Him. He loves you so much and He is faithful to you.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 5

2010-12-05T10:06:00.002-05:00

December 5

Yesterday we talked about preparing for Christmas and doing our best to not be stressed. Today I want to talk about a different kind of preparing. Check these scriptures out:

Revelation 21:4, 18-21, 23 (NIV) He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”, The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. 19The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass., The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.

John 14:1-3 (NKJV) “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

Look at these preparations which God Himself has made ~ He is so good to us! We can spend a lot of time trimming our trees and decking our halls, but the beauty they reveal when done are nothing in comparison to the beauty that awaits us in heaven.

We are blessed to see God’s creative handiwork all around us on a daily basis. Our world has been made very wonderfully. It is October as I am writing this and the colors outside are breathtaking. I love living in Pennsylvania and being able to enjoy this scenery year after year. Each year my appreciation of it grows ~ it deepens and I see new wonders in the same places. The other day a tree beckoned me to come and sit a spell. I could not because it was in a complete stranger’s yard, but it called nonetheless! Its leaves were billowy and bright. The yellow, orange, and green mix was just so, that it appeared to be perfectly shady and brilliantly bright all at the same time. I will look for the splendor again next year.

I will deck my halls this Christmas, because I think it is beautiful. I will enjoy decorating year after year knowing that, when I am blessed to celebrate Christmas in heaven, it will be far worth the yearly hassle of tangled lights and the not–quite attainable perfection that we seek in our decorating.

Deck your halls, put up a beautiful display and, in so doing, remember what a beautiful display awaits you in heaven. That is reason to rejoice and celebrate…our names are written in heaven and it is our blessed destination ~ our homeland.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 4

2010-12-04T09:36:00.002-05:00

December 4

I started yesterday off with Merry Christmas! And, gee, I want to say it again, Merry Christmas! Today I wanted to talk about preparing for Christmas ~ after all, it is December 4th. There is so much to do and such little time in which to do it. Right!???!

I want you to think about your Christmas “To Do List” and consider it carefully. Why do you feel that you need to do all the things that you have on this list? Are they a family tradition, passed down many generations? Is it something that you enjoyed since your youth and you want your children to experience the same? Is it just how your mom always did it? Or mother in law? What motivates you to make “The List” and force yourself to do it?

Are you stressed out year after year trying to accomplish “The List”? Do this for me, please. Write out your list and at dinner talk with your husband about it and see whether this is really what you want your Christmas to look like. Is there any way of combining jobs? Can you get any friends to help you so it is not so overwhelming? Pray about this as well. God does not want you to be stressed out at Christmas ~ He wants you to be refreshed. Let Him direct your family into a refreshing Christmas Season. Stop trying to make it happen on your own. He does the refreshing. What can you do that isn’t a burden but is rather a blessing to your family?

This is a touchy subject for some people…you do not “mess” with their personal traditions and warm fuzzy memories. And that is not my intent…my intent is for us to do our best and not be stressed…however…if God is urging you to do something different, then obey Him because His ways are best!

Example: deck your halls (house) not stressfully, but joyfully. If you normally experience fighting and frustration during this part of the preparations…then this year pray first. If some members do not want to participate, could it be because they do not like the tension of the task? We put on Christmas movies and deck our halls…yes, we need to stop and pray “during” the task but that is “just going to happen” in a family of 6 sometimes! Let’s do our best to not be stressed!

Philippians 4:6,7 (NKJV) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Offer up to God a specific prayer about your “To Do List”. Seek Him for strength, wisdom, direction and peace ~ so that you and your family will have a Merry Refreshing Christmas and not a Frustrating Stressful Christmas. He loves you so much so let’s do our best to not be stressed!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 3

2010-12-04T09:30:00.003-05:00

December 3

Merry Christmas! I wish for your Christmas Season to be a joyful time ~ the whole season, not just December 25th.

Christmas Day is special to me…no doubt about it & we make it a big fun family day! My family celebrates Christmas Day just like we do any other family member’s birthday…but then again it is a whole lot different. When one member has a birthday, we tell them Happy Birthday in the morning ~ with a hug and a kiss. Then in the evening, we put out a few decorations (this varies by person), share an awesome meal together, give gifts to the birthday person and then share some sweet dessert & sing Happy Birthday.

On December 25th, we wake up in celebration mode. Jesus is a member of our family and we all get to celebrate Him and His birthday. We wait on the stairs and we talk about Jesus’ birthday to help the littlest ones remember why we celebrate Christmas. Next we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus, and pray. We then come down the stairs and share presents. When the opening of presents is over, we hug and thank one another and play for a while. Finally we share a fun special breakfast. When our bellies are full we get to play and inspect our gifts some more. Some time during all of this I have to sneak into the kitchen to make my dish for the big family dinner at Grandma’s house. In the afternoon, we go over to Grandma’s to see all of the family, where we spend time playing and chatting. We share a nice meal together and then there are gifts to open. We play and chat some more and then we share some dessert together. We end up leaving there really late at night ~ tired and blessed. We have so much fun Christmas Day. My children know it is Jesus’ Birthday. We are thankful that He has allowed us to celebrate it ~ in honor of Him and to show each other how much we love them because of the great love He has shown us.

Think about what Christmas means to you: why you do the things you do, and are you honoring Him in them. What does your Christmas day usually look like? What do you want Christmas day to look like this year? Spend some time in prayer ~ share with God your hopes and desires about this year and seek what He would have you do. I want to leave you with a few scriptures to ponder.

Proverbs 17:22 (NIV) A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. {NKJV – uses the phrase merry heart; AMP – uses happy heart}
Nehemiah 8:10 (AMP) Then [Ezra] told them, Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

PS ~ someone asked...when are you getting to the actual story of Christmas??? Well...it is coming...we are laying a foundation the first few days...because once we get into the story it is jam packed with scriptures...and we have to be able to receive it and soak it all in :o) Let the anticipation build...what am I going to learn...what is God going to personally speak to me about? What is the new thing that I will learn this year? Can I really learn something new...I heard this story hundreds of times? Are you hungry for God's Word?

I would love to know what you are thinking :o)

Merry Christmas ~ Day 2

2010-12-01T22:15:00.004-05:00

December 2

Psalm 119:25 (NKJV) My soul clings to the dust; revive me according to Your word.
Psalm 119:37 (NKJV) Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way.
Psalm 119:40 (NKJV) Behold, I long for Your precepts; revive me in Your righteousness.
Psalm 119:88 (NKJV) Revive me according to Your lovingkindness, So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.
Psalm 143:11 (NKJV) Revive me, O LORD, for Your name’s sake! For Your righteousness’ sake bring my soul out of trouble.

My prayer for you for this Christmas Season is that you have a time of blessing and revival ~ not just survival. So many of us have our plates full during the holidays with places to go, people to see and money to spend! There are many more of us who are dealing with a rough past year ~ a year when hopes and dreams were shattered ~ a year when a loved one passed on.

Life can be so busy, painful and lonely. I have had a few Christmas Seasons where I wanted to retreat under my blankets and not emerge till January 2nd! During those times I cried out those scriptures to the Lord daily…and let me tell you, sweet sistas…He was faithful each time to come to my rescue.

What does the word revival mean? I found many definitions from various resources (dictionaries and concordances) and here’s what I found ~ in my own words ~ to come back to life in your heart and mind from heartache, devastation, depression and wrong thinking ~ stop walking in death and walk in life.

Be with Him. Look for Him in your everyday life. Seek Him for help and wisdom for every day. Thank Him for His loving-kindness and faithfulness. He wants you brought back to life in Him. He is the way, the truth and the life.

Pray to our Daddy with me...Dear Father, I thank you so much that You love me. Please come to my aid this Christmas Season and revive me. Revive me, O God, according to Your word …revive me in Your way…revive me in Your righteousness…revive me according to Your loving-kindness…all for Your name’s sake. Help me to live like You and be glorified in my life, O God. Amen

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Merry Christmas ~ Day 1

2010-12-01T06:21:00.003-05:00

December 1

Can you believe it? Christmas time is really here! Are you excited? Are you looking forward to all the great times with family and friends? Are you excited to eat all the special holiday foods ~ foods your mom would never make in April or May? Are you excited to bring out all the decorations and deck your halls? Yippee…now is the time for special family traditions! Are you anticipating a season of joy? Is Christmas like a great vacation at home? A time to watch special, fun, and timeless movies with the family…ones I am only allowed to start watching Thanksgiving Day ~ anyone else with me on this one!!??!! Don’t you just love the hustle and bustle out in the streets and stores? People everywhere are a little nicer ~ a little more patient ~ a little more generous.

Are you thinking that anyone with this attitude might be off her rocker? Be honest.

Are you crazy and off your rocker too? Or are you waiting for all the holiday hustle and bustle to be over and done with already? Have you had quite a year and are now just waiting for a new one to start ~ hoping it will be better than this past year?

I am hoping that the time you spend in this BLOG ~ with a good cup of coffee & time in God’s Word and in His presence ~ will change your hearts and minds. Think about this scripture, girls ~ you can insert “daughter” for “son”. Remember the scriptures themselves are the words “to listen closely to”. And then below it is my prayer for each of you.

Proverbs 4:20-23 (NIV) My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

Father, I ask in Jesus’ name that You come and bless on these dear women. Help them to have an amazing Christmas ~ the whole season long. May this year be a time of fresh revelation of You and Your ways. I pray that Your love abounds in their hearts and they are changed to be more like You. I ask that you open the eyes of their understanding that they would see wondrous things from Your Word. I thank You that You love them and will for them a future and a hope. Be glorified in them in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

school is back in session!

2010-08-31T14:50:00.000-04:00

Back to school came up out of nowhere and bit me on the seat meat!

I have been enjoying my lazy days of summer ~ even the ones that were "growth" difficult. On the personal side ~ I went to the pool with the children. We hit some movies for free movie days. The children did their various camps. I did laundry every day, cooked, cleaned, and played. We enjoyed the Car Cruise. We watched movies, did cookouts, and had friends over. We enjoyed summer.

On the Ministry side ~ I walked with way too many women through their infant losses this summer. That is never easy ~ I am blessed to love on them through it. I love seeing them smile, heal, and breathe again. I walked with many dear sistas through their pregnancy after loss. Wrote a little. I helped some women organize their homes. {I LOVE this...yes, I am crazy and I know it...O, but to organize ~ mmmm it's like butter when you are done! Smooth n creamy ~ things are easy to find and a certain level of stress is diminished!} O, Um...back on task here...I walked with a few women through their marital "griefs". And on and on the list could go. {Wait a minute, I thought I took the summer off to write??? All I really did was not teach "formally" this summer...but still did Ministry...hmmm what does that mean??? Anyway...}

BAM ~ summer is done and school has started!

I kid you not ~ I was not ready. I bought supplies, clothes, and did haircuts 2 days before school started. This is not "the norm" for me. I feel like I have been playing catch up and today is only Day 4 of school!! There is still sooo much to do. School is back ~ time to regroup and focus. This is a completely different year than any other year that I have ever had ~ I have a 10th grader who is in Band(s) and Boy Scouts; I have a 4th grader who is a Violin player and Cheerleader; I have a Kindergarten kid; and a Preschooler ~ my life has changed drastically in the past few days. Time to get the new schedule down for life to be more organized and rest-full.

OK...I will leave you all and get back to work...I hope you are having a blessed and resting fully in God kind of day. Laurie Kay

"Not Christian enough" & "Too Christian" at the SaMe time????

2010-08-09T13:24:00.000-04:00

How can this be???? OR like I always say...maybe I am just CRaZy???

Psssst ~ I don't think that I am CRaZy this time. *please humor me*

So ~ the last BLOG, I mentioned our title for today as one of the things that has been said to me this past summer and I thought I would go deeper here today.

I was told by someone that I am not Christian enough and then by another person that I was too Christian ~ both said to me by Christians. Now, I can understand someone saying that I am not Christian enough ~ but too Christian ~ that simply can't happen.

I love God very much ~ I take Him and His Word very seriously. I also, live life to the fullest ~ after all, this is my Father's world and He has given me all things to freely enjoy! (1 Timothy 6:17)

I aim to live my life full of faith and trust in Him. I aim to obey His written Word. Yes, I am a human and make mistakes ~ daily & a lot. {ask my hubby ~ he forgives me 70x7 daily ~ love u baby}

These comments didn't rock my world and make me crazy -er. But they did make me stop and do an overview of my life. Here are the questions I had to ask myself and seek out the truth of:
*Where can someone say that I am not Christian enough?
    *Does Jesus say this in His Word?
    *Is this something that is a hindrance for the Gospel's sake?
*Where can someone say that I am too Christian?
   *Does Jesus say this in His Word?
   *Is this something that is a hindrance for the Gospel's sake?

I felt God impress on me through this process that as I live out the rest of my life, there will always be need for improvement. {yes, I already knew that ~ but, He said that in a very freeing way ~ not in a "duh, you should know better" ~ there will be more about this another day}

Also, to take heed. Some people are all about judging ~ and this is done under a mask of scripture to make them seem spiritually minded. So for me, I need to take what they say and instantly go to Him to see if He is indeed saying that to me ~ no matter who it is that makes the comment.

And as for the "too Christian" it's like this ~ there are people who don't want to ~ don't know better ~ don't fully understand that we need to be daily living like Jesus ~ not living like freaks, but living wisely just like Jesus did ~ living a life of compassion; living a life of service; entertaining grace-full thoughts for one's own good; maintaining grace-full deeds because that is right; not living to seek one's own fulfillment; etc.

A scripture to ponder for today:
8 For he who sows to his own flesh (lower nature, sensuality) will from the flesh reap decay and ruin and destruction, but he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. 9 And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint. 10 So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good [morally] to all people [not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith [those who belong to God's family with you, the believers]. Galatians 6:8-10 (AMP)

Think this section of scripture over and join me in making our aim to be obedient to Him. May He be seen in and through us ~ for His name's sake.

Love you fellow sistas!!!
Laurie Kay

Misfit OR Miss Fit

2010-08-06T12:40:00.000-04:00

Do you know the song from Rudolph ~ "We're a couple of misfits"? This particular line has been rolling around in my head all summer long.

Why am I such a misfit?
I am not just a nit wit!
They can't fire me.
I QUIT!
Why don't I fit in?

Let me back track for a spell here. When I was about 3 or 4 years old, my big old Italian family got together at my grandmother's house for our Christmas celebration. All my aunts, uncles, and cousins were there. We had a grand & loud time celebrating!! Someone had this great idea to take family photos. Since there were 4 sisters and 4 brothers that means there would be a lot of pics.

So bring it on!

Everyone and their children sitting down in their nice Christmas outfits & smiling big for the camera. Aunt Janet and her crew ~ boom bada bing ~ next family; Uncle Joey and his crew ~ boom bada bing ~ next family; Uncle Butch and his family ~ boom bada bing ~ next family: mine ~ and on we go getting all the families done.

Well, the photos are all developed ~ because this is back in the day when you had to wait until the film gets developed before you get to see the actual pictures. Boom bada bing ~ there I am in every one of the "individual family" pictures!!!

Where did I fit in??? Many times as a child I thought I was adopted ~ this must be what I was thinking that Christmas. CRaZy ~ I know!!

So many more times in my life I have felt that I didn't fit in where I was ~ too many times to recount here.

This summer ~ WOW ~ I have been told that I am too Christian by some Christian friends and not Christian enough by some others ~ where do I fit in???

When I have gone to God in prayer over these and other comments ending with my question of "where do I fit in?" ~ the word that has been impressed upon my heart this summer has been, "My little Miss, you fit in right here."

Where?? Right here:
See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me. Isaiah 49:16 (NIV)
He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. Psalm 91:4 (NKJV)

I am His Miss and I fit in just right with Him.

You do too ~ no matter who you are!!

I hope you have a very blessed day ~ you misfit ~ I mean Miss Fit!!!
Laurie Kay

Back 2 Blogging

2010-08-05T13:23:00.001-04:00

Hello Blogging world!
I'm back :o)

It sure has been a long time since I was on here and so today I thought I would not only start Blogging again...but also change the whole look of it!!

I hope you like it.

The trend lately is to have a "cool & hip" black background...but our Ministry colors are pink, white, chocolate, and caramel. So, that is why I went with what you see.

I know that my male friends are thinking "too girly". Sorry, but we girly girls LOVE chocolate!!! And it is kind of calming to look at ~ at least I think so. OR ~ yes, I am just CRaZy!!!

CRaZy doesn't bother me ~ anymore.

What has been on my mind lately??? Boy o boy ~ that is a loaded question and it will take days to share it all.

I have had a summer of painful growth. In the growth I have fallen more in love with God. He has shown me things within my heart and mind that need changed ~ cleaned up ~ made better ~ refined ~ taking former layers off to go to the next layer or step in my life's journey. *painful*

However, I am filled to overflowing with joy & thanksgiving.
God ~ You are wonderful! You don't just do wonderful things for me or to me ~ You ARE wonderful! I love You!

I am filled with wonder over how much He cares about all the details in my life ~ the big things and the small.

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11 (NIV)

Things don't have to be a sin to be told to stop doing it. Some can just be; "Hey, kiddo, that is a stumbling block for so-n-so and so I am going to need you to stop that...thanks!"

Sometimes it seems that "sinful" things are easier to stop doing and break free from than "other" non-sinful things. Habits are hard to break ~ taking time and a lot of heart work. *painful*

So, it sounds like I am leaving you on a "downer" ~ sorry ~ not my intent, rather know that while it has been painful it has been necessary & good ~ and I am truely thankful for it. And so, good day to you, I hope it is very blessed ~ Laurie Kay

Pregnancy after Infant Loss

2010-04-01T07:57:00.001-04:00

A big part of Namesake Ministries is ministering to women who have suffered child-loss ~ specifically ~ miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, and other infant losses.

As many of you know, I suffered the loss of twins and a single baby by miscarriage before I went on to have 4 other children.

My pregnancies after loss were no walk in the park. I was tested and tried many times & in different ways. Things happened that triggered fear and doubt ~ fear and doubt that I had to cast before my Daddy and seek His help, strength, and comfort. I call these things “triggers”. The biggest trigger for me was seeing blood, and so any time that I saw blood, I needed to go straight to Dad. This happened with each pregnancy ~ during the 1st, 2nd and 3rd month right at the time I was supposed to have a period.

In walking with many women over the years through their losses and their pregnancies after loss, I came to find that we each have some sort of trigger ~ blood like my trigger, sonograms, dates, people, and even places. Everyone has some sort of trigger.

So…

What do you do with a trigger? Do you have a godly support person? Are you alone in this battle? Whether you are alone or you have great support you need to go directly to God. His Word tells us to cast all our cares on Him, for He cares for us ~ see how this scripture is worded in the Amplified ~ Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully. ~ 1 Peter 5:7

Go straight to Him dear sisters and pour out your hearts before Him. He hears your prayers.

Seek help from His Word ~ look up scriptures that speak to your specific need. If you need help with this get some sisters to help you or email me I would love to help you. Write them up and post them all around where you will see them and go to them right when you need them ~ and after you read them, pray asking God for help; thank Him for who He is and what He promises in His Word.

I want to share with you all some fabulous news ~ many of the women who have been ministered to through this Ministry are now pregnant. Please rejoice with me on their behalf. It is so exciting to see them on this part of their journeys. God has been healing, restoring, growing, and blessing each one of them. And I am so blessed to report that they are having healthy pregnancies.

For you dear sweet sisters who are waiting on the chance to become pregnant ~ Daddy loves you and He shows no partiality. Continue to cast your cares on Him ~ He does care for you! Know that He sees your heartache and He hears your prayers.

Much love to you all ~ Laurie Kay

Dearly Loved

2010-03-24T15:54:00.002-04:00

Good day to you sisters!

I hope your day is amazing. Mine started out cold and dreary looking, but right now it is blue skies and sunshine ~ just beautiful.

There is a chorus I can’t get out of my head…so I am posting it here. I heard this song for the first time at the beginning of the month ~ sad isn’t it, it came out so long ago and I am just now uncovering this gem!

I was made to love you, I was made to find you
I was made just for you, made to adore you
I was made to love and be loved by you
You were here before me, you were waiting on me
And you said you’d keep me, never would you leave me
I was made to love and be loved by you
Toby Mac’s “Made to Love”

My 5 year old and I like to hear it in the van every chance we get. He says, “I really like that song that says how God loves me.” After further investigation, I found he really likes the idea that God made him just because He loves him and He wants to love on him.

What a concept! Why is it, that as we get older we doubt that? OR, that we look at our circumstances and they tell us He doesn’t?

What is the truth? What do you choose to believe? Will you allow your circumstances to speak louder to your heart and mind than God’s Word?

If you choose to listen to and retell yourself the lies, you will stay in a paralyzed place and not live out what you have been destined to do…or be who you were lovingly designed to be.

Take those words to heart ~ I was made to love and be loved by you

You are dearly loved ~ walk in that for His glory and for your blessing.

Ephesians 5:1 (NIV) Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children

Colossians 3:12 (NIV) Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Laurie Kay

March 16th "Pampering" is going to be sooo good!

2010-03-10T09:29:00.001-05:00

Good morning dearly loved of the Lord,

Well, yesterday got away from me. I had Bible Study homework for Thursday to do; homework for Friday Bible Study and writing for March 16th. I am so sorry that I didn’t get this out.

I am crazy excited about the Word that God gave me to share on the 16th ~ I think I am going to bust!!!! {And I hope you can come!}

So many people are sharing with me that they sometimes feel guilty about pampering themselves…others that they never get a chance and wish that they could…and many others and some from the before categories think I am crazy for thinking that God wants to pamper us.

Well, I may be crazy…but I am correct. I do not say this to boast…but girls…trust me ~ I am correct! Don't you wish tonight was the 16th!!??!!

Not only is the Word going to be amazing…but God moving on the hearts of women is crazy wonderful!!! See, there is a dear sister who came and offered to help with “stuff” so I can focus on the Lesson. She is super talented and is decorating our stage…I can’t wait to see the final outcome…it is going to rock! Thank you soo much TJ!! There is another dear sister who is heading up our pampering treats…oooo….they are going to be so good! Thank you soo much TR!! There are other sisters donating to our Raffling Basket and the products are YUMMY!!! Thanks JC & RM!!!

OOOOO it is going to be soooo good!

Well, that is all I can say about that…or I will give away the whole lesson.

I pray your day is rich and blessed! Take time to tell Daddy how much you love Him ~ because He loves you very much!

Laurie Kay

PS ~ scripture to ponder ~ Jeremiah 31:3 (AMP) The Lord appeared from of old to me [Israel], saying, Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you.

Free 2 BLOG

2010-03-08T11:45:00.002-05:00

Good morning!

I have been inactive on the BLOG front…and I had a few of you concerned…I am so very sorry…please forgive me.

Please let me explain all of my craziness!

There has been so much going on that to BLOG seemed like a chore. I had put some crazy pressure on myself that the BLOG needs to be this and look like that…instead of just be whatever it will be and let God develop it. I have written what I felt I was supposed to share…but I was trying to “control” the details. And that is not my job. I want Him to be glorified in my life and Namesake Ministries ~ even in the BLOGs that are posted here.

At the Christmas Lesson I had shared that I had written daily devotions and wasn’t able to print them as hard copies…and so I put them on the BLOG. Then I put some pressure on myself to always have devotions on the BLOG instead of life…not groovy because that was self-inflicted stress! So, there may be a season of daily devotions that are a “theme” for the month like we had at Christmas…but that will not be the norm ~ as of now ~ just life with Jesus will be the norm.

My response to this is to pray, write, and let Him handle the details. Your response to this is hopefully to understand, to pray for me and the Ministry, and to glean any wisdom and strength from the Lord from what is posted…or to just enjoy a good laugh…which happens to be a dose of medicine ~ which may be just what Daddy prescribed for you that particular day! He can be quite fun that way…can’t He??!!??

So girls, I have been delivered from my self-inflicted chains and I am just gonna BLOG!

Much love to you and I hope you are enjoying your day ~ this new day given to you from your Daddy above ~ I sure am!!!

Psalm 118:24 (AMP) This is the day which the Lord has brought about; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Laurie Kay

PS ~ oh my gravy!! Daddy is amazing and I can’t wait to write about it tomorrow for you!!

PSS ~ thank you AT for sending me that email ~ it was from Daddy ~ and I am free...thank you for obeying!

Christmas pictures finally!!!

2010-02-08T15:56:00.000-05:00

WOW!!

I was actually able to put the pictures here!!!
I am in shock...it took me so long to do this.

• The first picture is what went into the baskets.
• The next is all 10 baskets lined up and ready for delivery.
• The next is the wonderful nurses on the bed-rest for pregnancy floor...this was the floor I was on with my 4th baby...we called it the PROM Unit. (6 baskets to this Unit)
• The last picture is of the wonderful nurses from the cancer floor. (4 baskets to this Unit)

I was able to take them down December 23rd.

Thank you everyone who made contributions for these baskets…to be able to make 10 baskets was humbling indeed. I told the nurses about you all and they were so thankful for your generosity to total strangers!

These nurses were so kind to me when I was a patient and when I came down with the baskets. If you know nurses…thank them. They do an amazing job ~ and a lot of it is behind the scenes!!

We are taking donations at all Events throughout the year for baskets if you would like to contribute. This is the Ministries Outreach…we want to show a little love to women “stuck” in the hospital.

God bless you sistas…I hope you have a very blessed night ~ Laurie Kay

Blood Cleanses

2010-02-07T10:49:00.001-05:00

Good morning sistas I hope you are having a very blessed Sunday morning.

Yesterday, I wrote that every time I looked at the snow I thought of this scripture:

Isaiah 1:18 (NKJV) “ Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the LORD, “ Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.

Here are some definitions for your thought ~ taken from the Merriam Webster’s online dictionary:

• Crimson ~ any of several deep purplish reds
• Scarlet ~ any of various bright reds
• White ~ free from color

Yours and my sins could be as deep or as bright red as can be and the blood of Jesus cleanses them all whiter than snow. This reasoning is taken from the above scripture and these two: 1 John 1:7 ~ shares that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin. And Psalm 51:7 ~ here David shares wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.

Our God is amazing. Not only are we forgiven, but, we are made clean, washed, in essence we are given a clean slate or canvas. We can sin in thought, word, and deed and He cleanses us from them all. ALL.

What really gets me today is that they are not just cleansed and made white ~ we can sparkle afterwards. Snow is not just white, it sparkles in the sunshine. We are given beauty for ashes.

What a great and loving Daddy we have!!

I hope you enjoy this day sweet sistas of mine ~ much love to you ~ Laurie Kay

Snow Storm

2010-02-06T14:44:00.009-05:00

A snow storm is coming today and the weather guy said something like, “we may not get much from the storm, but it is like getting grazed from Mike Tyson. It may not be direct, but it’s still gonna hurt.”

I thought that was funny.

I don’t look at storms as being horrible…they are kind of like God giving us a break. A lot of things close down and we are forced to stay indoors. Family time!! I may need to get things done, but I can’t…so I will enjoy the down time.

This is what I started to write yesterday…and then the clock clicked and it was time to leave to go to my bible study. Right after bible study I went to the store to pick up a few essentials for the storm we were to get and then went home and did “home stuff”.

Sorry that I wasn’t able to come back on yesterday.

Well, we did get snow…they said that we averaged 19 inches in Allegheny County. Allegheny County was declared a “State of Emergency”. Allegheny County was asked to conserve water, because the water company lost 2 “sources” of power and they wanted to make sure they had enough for basic living and if there would be any fires. Then we - Allegheny County - were told that we may get 1-5 more inches. Then, the whole State of PA was declared a "State of Emergency". Everyone was asked to stay home so that Emergency personal could freely get to where they needed to go and so that the road crews could do their clearing work. This is what I got from watching the news in bits and pieces from 8 AM to Noon.

Around my property we have from 21 to 25 inches of snow…the variance is because of drifting snow.

I think we got hit not grazed by Mr. Tyson…but praise God we did not loose our electricity and we are all safe. I do love that we are forced to stay home.

Very interesting morning of news ~ it was fun to watch from the warmth and safety of home ~ I hope you and your loved ones are safe and warm as well.

We will be staying in and doing things around the house. I am thankful for this day from Him. I am thankful for His provision and protection today. I am thankful for His forgiveness ~ I think of this every time I look out my window:

Isaiah 1:18 (NKJV) “ Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the LORD, “ Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.

I am thankful to be His daughter!

I love you sistas ~ Laurie Kay

A quick hello

2010-02-05T07:05:00.000-05:00

Hello ladies,

I just wanted to say that I will write you all a little later...I need to scoot off to Bible Study very early this morning.

Enjoy your day & I will talk with you later ~ Laurie Kay

I'm thinking about Tiaras!

2010-02-04T07:44:00.005-05:00

Good morning ladies,

Today, I am thinking about Tiaras ~ I love tiaras ~ do you? They sparkle and shine and some are so beautifully designed. I love the head band kind all the way up to large ones. I have to say I do not enjoy ones that have stars on them or ones that are over 4 inches ~ that is a bit much, even for me ~ can you imagine that?

I have a lot of girlfriends who are not girly girls and never were and they can’t even imagine what I am talking about here. For you dear sisters in Christ Jesus ~ I am so sorry that this BLOG may be boring for you. Please just read to get a glimpse as to why they are so special to me.

When I became a believer and found out that Jesus was the King of Kings and who we believers are in Him ~ I turned back into a 2 year old girl and loved tiaras all over again!

If God allowed me to pick what my helmet would be ~ for my helmet of salvation ~ hands down it would be a tiara. When I see a tiara I see hope, truth, and an anchor for my soul. How crazy is that? It stands for everything I am in Him!!! I am His baby girl, His little princess, and I do not stand on my own strength ~ I stand in Him alone.

If you love tiaras, what do you think of when you see one? What does it “stand for” to you?

1Thessalonians 5:8-11 (NKJV) But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.

This is just a little snippet from a lesson coming up in April. If you are curious…come join us! It is going to be a fun and exciting time! Even if you don’t like tiaras you will love the message!

Have a very blessed day sweet sistas of mine ~ love you ~ Laurie Kay

Free your mind

2010-02-03T08:29:00.002-05:00

Good morning!

I hope you slept well last night. I did.

I have a line from a song on my mind and I can’t get it out of my head. “Free your mind and the rest will follow.” I am so sorry to all my sistas out there…but I don’t know the whole song…I looked up the lyrics and never really knew it was about prejudice. WOW…do I live under a rock???

Anyway, whether you know the song word for word or only know this one line like me…you can still see that this line is a powerful line. Before I get into it…this is a tiny part of our new lesson on February 16 ~ That’s What He Said! “I know the thoughts I think towards you,” says the Lord, “do you?”

This line from the song is so true biblically…let me give you some food for thought.

The line is: “Free your mind and the rest will follow.” And 2 scriptures for you to ponder are:

2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Ephesians 5:26 (NKJV) that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,

So what is going on in your mind? What are you thinking about with these 2 scriptures and this song lyric? How can they come together to be truth you can apply to your live that the Word of God mixed with faith would be effective in you?

If you want to know my thoughts on these…come to the Live Lesson on February 16, 2010 (details on http://www.namesakeministries.com/ in the upcoming events section)

O…how mean of me to make you wait…really I am not trying to be mean…rather…make you more curious as to where this lesson will go…don’t you wanna come and find out now?

Love you sistas…enjoy your new day!! Laurie Kay

Save these dates!!

2010-02-02T08:16:00.004-05:00

Good morning ladies!
I hope all is well with you. I had to be offline for a few days...computer problems...and hopefully it is all fixed now.

Today, I wanted to let you all know of some dates for lessons that we will be doing. For more details on all of these lessons please go to the website at http://www.namesakeministries.com/

General Lessons ~ all of these lessons are for women aged middle school and up
*Tuesday, February 16, 2010 ~ That's What He Said! “I know the thoughts I think towards you,” says the Lord, “do you?”

*Tuesday, March 16, 2010 ~ Pampering ~ your whole spirit, soul, and body!

Save these dates for more General Lessons:
*Tuesday, April 20, 2010
*Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Infant Loss Events:
Miss Carrying You ~ Healing And Restoration Event For Women Who Have Suffered Child-Loss And The Women Supporting Them.
*Saturday, February 27, 2010

Infant Loss Support Group
*Monday, March 1, 2010
*Monday, April 5, 2010
*Monday, May 3, 2010

This is a lot of information here and I hope to see you at some of these…oh, and invite your girlfriends along…the general lessons are going to be so much fun…I

The Infant Loss Events are going to be prayer filled and scripture packed and if you know anyone who has suffered this kind of loss please pass this info onto them and pray for them. So many women are afraid to reach out for help so let’s help them get the help they need…our Daddy wants them healed and blessed!

I pray you each have a grace filled day…He loves you so much and so do I ~ Laurie Kay

Spring Cleaning in January

2010-01-28T15:20:00.001-05:00

Hello Ladies,

I have been doing a lot of Spring Cleaning the past few days ~ yes, I know it is January ~ but, I am in the mood for some cleanliness and organization!! Anyone with me???

The children went through some crazy growth spurts recently and I needed to go through their clothes ~ which lead to going through all their drawers and closets. So, instead of just doing that I am Spring Cleaning the whole house. And I love it!!!

I know that what I am doing doesn't fall into the full “technical definition” of Spring Cleaning ~ but, what else can I call it? The January fall out? Blizzard Work? The New Year Organizing Special?

I know what you are thinking ~ she really is crazy and you would be right!! You get a prize ~ have a Hershey Kiss! Mmmm :o)

So, why BLOG about this...cause I thought you would get a kick out of my reason for not being on the computer much, also, hopefully to inspire you to do the same.

There is something about cleaning like this that is therapeutic for me ~ and I have to believe that I am not the only one. I do not like just “having things” ~ that makes me feel wasteful. Also, someone else may really need it, so, if I’m not using it then I like to give it away.

Also, I love my closets in order ~ everything in their place and easy for me to find. I am not trying to be a control freak in my home, but, I am the one that everyone comes to to ask where something is. And with being organized I don't have to think about it! So you can call me lazy instead of controlling :o)

Here is a scripture that I love, love, love!

1 Corinthians 14: 40 (NKJV) Let all things be done decently and in order.

I know that this scripture is in the context of people prophesying and speaking in tongues in the midst of the church ~ however ~ it does say all things. So, I am taking the liberty of saying that it is a good thing to have things in order because it helps me to do things in an orderly way. OK, maybe that is reaching and so maybe if my things are in order that frees my mind so I can then be able to function in a Godly capacity when I am with the church. Maybe??? Maybe???

I would love to know your thoughts on this, because I could go on and on with a few more scriptures as well :o) but I won’t. I do ask that you go away and ponder these questions: how do you feel when things are in disarray? How do you feel when they are in order? If you like things in order, does it really free your mind to do God’s will in your life? If things are in disarray, do you feel anxious?

These were just a few questions to get you thinking about this for yourself and so I hope you really took your time with them and answered them as honestly as possible. God doesn’t want us hindered in our walks and so I pray that you are inspired to get rid of clutter in your life so that you aren’t hindered.

God bless you sistas!
Love you ~ Laurie Kay

The past few days

2010-01-25T10:08:00.002-05:00

Good morning Ladies!

What are you waking up to today? What are you faced with? Were you given some great news and you are floating on cloud nine in thanksgiving? Have you been given some bad news and are reeling with questions and maybe a tinge of fear or a feeling of hopelessness is also in the mix?

Our God, our heavenly Father, and our Daddy ~ He loves you.

I have had quite a week and weekend. This is what was going on and the reason for my Blogging absence…I need to get back in the groove and it has been hard…please forgive me!

• Thursday ~ I went to my women's small group and we had a time of sharing about life and we ended up staying and just being together for the afternoon before we had to part and get our children off the bus. I had enough time after this to make a nice meal for the family and pack my bag to go to another meeting. I didn't get home till very late. At this meeting we leaders were encouraged to bear one another's burden's in prayer and in sharing the Word of God with the one's we are leading ~ not us carrying their loads and doing the "work" for them. A leader can't be anyone's "rescuer" ~ Jesus is the only one who can do this. And if we think about it this applies to all people in our lives, our husbands, children, family members and friends. Problem ownership is what this is called ~ very interesting and good stuff.

• Friday ~ right after getting the older children off to school, I had to go to 2 meetings. 1 was for school and the other for Namesake Ministry “stuff”. They were both fun and very productive, but I did not get home till it was time to pick up my son from PS and then go home to make dinner and leave again. My oldest had a Jazz Concert at school ~ this was the best concert they had in my opinion ~ it was awesome!! Way to go Zakk!!! I also had the talk with Zakk about our loss of twins and our single baby. It was heard to say and hard for him to hear ~ but it was good and the timing was right and God was glorified in it. “Why tell him then?”, you may ask...because of Saturday

• Saturday ~ I was on the radio. WORD FM 101.5 on the Let's Talk Show. (If you would want to hear it you can at their website – the whole day was about emotional healing) I was a guest in the 3rd hour and they invited me in to share about my miscarriages and what I am doing with the healing I received from these losses. With my children knowing I was on the air, the oldest needed to know why so that the younger one's would not listen ~ and that is why I needed to tell him Friday night. They all wanted to hear Mommy on the radio...but we hadn't had the talk about our losses with them ~ they happened before their births. We ended up getting home right before it was time to go to turn around and go to church.

• Sunday ~ we needed to go to both services and it was quite a day. I saw so many sistas and heard how life is going for them. Many moments of prayer. My sistas are going through some very tough stuff right now. We got home from church had lunch, I helped prepare dinner...hubby wanted to cook and then I left again to take the oldest to youth group. Another late night getting home.

So this all brings us to today. I woke up thankful to have air in my lungs and hope in my soul.

Hebrews 6:19a (NKJV) This hope we have as an anchor of the soul,

Our God is mighty to save ~ it does not matter the situation or circumstance. He is with us and He loves us ~ boy that means soo much to me. I pray you have a blessed day in Him ~ Laurie Kay

Staff Sgt. Matthew Ingham USMC

2010-01-20T14:20:00.006-05:00

Hello Ladies,
This has been so hard to write.

On January 18th I Blogged about my dear friend Kathie Ingham and today I am Blogging about her sweet son Matt.

Matt was killed in action on Monday January 12, 2010 in Afghanistan. From all that I read, 2 men from his platoon were killed and Matt was hit. One of the men killed had the radio equipment and appeared to be closer to the line of fire. Matt went to the radio equipment and called for a helicopter for his platoon to be taken out. He was able to give the correct coordinates before he was killed. The other 12 men in his platoon had survived. Matt has been called a hero.

Matt died how he lived.

As a small boy he was always heroic. I remember once where one boy was being made fun of and Matt stopped what he was doing and went over to play with him. He was a kind soul even so young. He was quiet in large groups and didn’t need to stand out. He was fun to be around and funny ~ he had quite the imagination!

I was at their house a lot and had them over often as well. Matt’s favorite food was steak and I made it for him every time!

At a friends wedding that I was in, Matthew was about 5 at the time, he came up to me on bended knee and said, “If when I’m big and you aren’t married, I would like to marry you.” I thanked him, and hugged him. Kathie told me that later that night he told her we were going to be married and he was so happy. When it was made known that I was marrying John, my little Matt was crushed. He didn’t want to speak to me or see me. Some time passed before he approved of John and was OK with me getting married. What a memory for me ~ there are many more but not enough space.

His parents were divorced from when he was really small and his mother died when he was about 9. His father was remarried and Matthew and Monica went to live with them after she passed. I did not get to see them after this. We ~ friends from Kathie’s church ~ were asked to give the children some distance to hopefully help them heal and mourn their mom ~ we might make things harder for them with all the memories of our times together.

I recently reconnected with his little sister Monica on FB and was hoping to connect with him as well. It was not meant to happen. That’s OK ~ I shall see him again with his mom, my sweet friends ~ Kathie and Matt!!

Well, my dear sistas, please join me in praying for his sister Monica, his wife Yasmin, his Dad and Step-Mom, and the rest of their family and friends.

Much love to you ~ Laurie Kay

Where has Laurie Kay been?

2010-01-18T09:31:00.007-05:00

Hello sisters,

I am so sorry for not Blogging regularly this past week or so. Life has been a little hard and I needed some time to just be with God. There were some "time sensitive" things for the Ministry that i needed to do and I chose only to do those.

I ran into some of you dear sisters this weekend at church and I am so sorry that I was thinking about me only and had not let you know what was going on so you could be in prayer with me.

Please forgive me for not reaching out to you in the beginning and letting you be there for me. I did not mean to be selfish. I am so sorry.

Some things that are going on I can not share publicly ~ yet ~ and so I ask that you pray for some private McGuire family needs. He knows the details and what we need are His clarity, discernment, wisdom, strength and comfort to do His will.

Ministry needs ~ wow ~ we have 1 lesson a month lined up for February, March, April, and May. These are for all women middle school aged and up and they are going to be so much fun. I am going to hear back this week about the go ahead to let everyone know ~ a few behind the scene things need to be done and approved. I am very excited about these lessons.

We are also going to be doing 4 Miss Carrying You Seminars this year. They are called seminars but they are really like a healing service. They are targeted for any woman who has/had Infertility Issues, Miscarriages, Stillborn, SIDS or Infant Loss. Women who are supporting their loved ones are welcomed as well. These will be a time to come before God and receive from Him. There will be a time of prayer at the end and a chance to connect with other women for further support.

One thing that has happened that I can share is a great guy died last Monday serving our country and I mourned him. Not just for myself and the love I have for him, but his sister, his wife, and the rest of his family and friends. I am going to Blog in detail tomorrow about him.

Thank you so much for thinking about me this past week and for your prayers. I will try to be better at letting you all know what is going on.

God bless you sistas ~ Laurie Kay

Kathie Ingham

2010-01-18T08:30:00.007-05:00

I have a great girlfriend in heaven ~ her name is Kathie Ingham. She was beautiful inside and out ~ she held my hand and encouraged me with God's Word while I was miscarrying ~ here she was dying of AIDS and she was comforting and caring for me in my darkest hour ~ I will always love you Kathie.

Kathie contracted AIDS through a blood transfusion when she was pregnant with her firstborn son Matthew. She needed blood to live and it ended up taking her life years later ~ it was tainted blood. I was very close with Kathie the years we were blessed to know each other here on earth. I learned a lot from her how to be a mom, wife and a Christian woman. The biggest thing and maybe the hardest thing that I learned from her is how to die well.

She died in faith believing ~ just like the believers mentioned in Hebrews 11:13-16 NKJV These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.

She trusted her God to the end ~ she had hard moments and we would talk at length about the things that were difficult for her to walk in and then we would pray together ~ and in time you could see that God was infusing her with strength for every detail of her journey.

She was most concerned about her children ~ Matthew and Monica. How would they grow up? Would they mourn her in a healthy way so they could grow up and become strong people of faith? Would they remember her? Would they love Jesus the way she did? Would they be good citizens? We talked about so many of her hopes for them and the dreams she had for them to have a blessed life.

She was not worried about herself ~ she knew she was going to see her King soon and that she would be fine ~ and He gave her peace and comfort that her children would be well ~ they were His to take care of in the first place ~ just like she was His ~ she said this was a great comfort to her.

She lived to see me pregnant again and told me to take heart ~ all will be well. And it was. She did not say that to mean ~ you will deliver a perfectly healthy child ~ she meant that whatever happens ~ all will be well. She knew her time was growing short and she would not be here with me when he would be born.

All of her words of encouragement still mean so much to me ~ and it is 15 years later. Just her sharing life with me ~ cooking together ~ playing games with her children ~ her living taught me many good things about true godliness.

I love you Kathie and some day we will be together again. Until then, I will take those lessons God taught me through you and live to honor Him.

To all you sisters of mine who are still on this earth ~ thank you for your love and friendship. I have learned many things from you as well and I am truly blessed to do life with you. May you have a very blessed day today knowing Whose you are and how much He loves you.

Grace and peace to you ~ Laurie Kay

NOT feelling IT

2010-01-10T13:04:00.007-05:00

I am not feeling it today. I do not have the BLOG-ness flowing.

Thursday ~ I was running late and did not BLOG in the AM ~ so no BLOG.
Friday ~ Snow Day ~ and the children chose to get up early ~ which threw life into the fast everyone home for the day speed.
Saturday ~ got up late ~ again
Today ~ just not feeling it.

Is it writers block ~ no ~ I have sooo much to pen ~ but they are for upcoming lessons. Which are going to be sooo much fun!!! I can't wait for all dates and info to be in line to tell you all about it ~ you will not want to miss any of them.

I said at the Christmas Lesson that God is on the move ~ and oh my gravy He is. What He has impressed on me to share in the upcoming months are amazing, gripping and sooo good for the soul. The things we women face daily ~ all of them ~ He wants us to shine a light on them and be blown away by His love!

OK ~ so that's all I'm going to say for today ~ except ~ sisters, He does love you so much and so do I ~ Laurie Kay

Cleaning

2010-01-06T10:18:00.007-05:00

Well, today is cleaning day...wasn't going to...because I'm trying to get on a specific schedule...but have to. I have a 5 year old boy who stands up to pee ~ nuff said :o)

So thinking about attacking that room made me think of this scripture. Please read it out loud ~ slowly.

James 4:8 (New King James Version) Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

Now check out how the Amplified Version writes it.

James 4:8 (Amplified Bible) Come close to God and He will come close to you. [Recognize that you are] sinners, get your soiled hands clean; [realize that you have been disloyal] wavering individuals with divided interests, and purify your hearts [of your spiritual adultery].

So many new year's resolutions that people make are about being a new or becoming a better person. And if you are a Christian then that translates to becoming more like Christ.

Are there any rooms in your life that need a good cleaning? Selfishness; lust; anger; jealousy; gossip; hatred; unforgiveness; lying; laziness; worldly minded not kingdom minded ~ do any of these sound like you? There are many others ~ not enough space.

Take the time to think of the rooms in your life that you don't like or that do not reflect Christ and take them to Him in prayer. Remember you are His baby girl ~ His princess ~ and He loves you so much. these things do not separate you from Him so don't be afraid to go to Him...remember He already knows what you did and what you thought/think ~ and He loves you anyway ~ but, He does call each of us to repent and walk in His ways.

After spending time with Daddy ~ enjoy this new day He gave you!

Much love to you ~ Laurie Kay

Go ahead ~ ask Him!

2010-01-05T09:45:00.005-05:00

Today I missed a meeting with some girlfriends...2 are having medical tests tomorrow and we were all gathering together to pray for them. I was unable to go because of a "house issue" and needed to be here for the repair man. I sent these 2 scriptures in my email about why I couldn't go and felt I should share them with you all as well.

{I don't normally put in the verse # or have them separated...but today they looked too squished and so I did it a new way...hope it is helpful.}

1 John 5:13-15 (Amplified Bible) 13. I write this to you who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) the name of the Son of God [in the peculiar services and blessings conferred by Him on men], so that you may know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that you [already] have life, yes, eternal life.

14. And this is the confidence (the assurance, the privilege of boldness) which we have in Him: [we are sure] that if we ask anything (make any request) according to His will (in agreement with His own plan), He listens to and hears us.

15. And if (since) we [positively] know that He listens to us in whatever we ask, we also know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that we have [granted us as our present possessions] the requests made of Him.

James 5:15-16 (Amplified Bible) 15. And the prayer [that is] of faith will save him who is sick, and the Lord will restore him; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.

16. Confess to one another therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and restored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart]. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].

What is going on today ~ what are you facing? Go ahead ~ ask Him!

Daddy loves you so much & so do I!
Laurie Kay

Wisdom from Dumbo

2010-01-04T08:05:00.004-05:00

Yes...you read that correctly. We are going to get some wisdom from the movie Dumbo. {thank you lil sis for the plaque...I love you}

"The very things that held you down are going to carry you up."

Think about that for a moment and let what was meant sink in. His ears were holding him back...nobody liked him because of them ~ except his mother and later a mouse. He wasn't allowed to do any "cool" things in the circus like the other elephants. Do you remember all the trouble with his ears? Do you remember all the good that came from his ears?

I will leave you hanging to go and find out for yourself the good that came...we are just going to focus on the biblical principal we can get out of this statement.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (Amplified Bible) But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me! So for the sake of Christ, I am well pleased and take pleasure in infirmities, insults, hardships, persecutions, perplexities and distresses; for when I am weak [in human strength], then am I [truly] strong (able, powerful in divine strength).

I love this version most of all. It is so much easier to understand what was really meant that "when I am weak, then I am strong". I made bold the parts that I would like you to focus on...please go back and reread the scripture.

What are you facing today sister? Hurt over a death? Depressed about a relationship or lack of one? Seeking healing? Struggling to stay afloat financially or concerned about job stability? Meanness of so called friends? Peer pressure? Whatever you are facing ~ He is facing it too...He is standing by your side.

He will never leave you nor forsake you...up above it says that the power of Christ will pitch a tent over and dwell upon you...that is amazing...He pitched His tent...He is there for however long it's going to take...He has been with you and shall remain there. You are very important to Him and so is what you are facing.

Do you see how much you are loved? His love is everlasting, unchanging, and never failing towards you and by the way...nothing can separate you from that love...nothing! Those things that held you down are going to be what causes you to be carried up...He works all things together for good for His little girls!

Send up some praise and thanksgiving to your Daddy...He loves you...you are His little princess!

Enjoy your day ~ Laurie Kay

New day ~ no mistakes ~ yet??

2010-01-03T08:59:00.006-05:00

Hello and Happy January 3rd to ya!!

I am a fan of Anne of Green Gables ~ the books and the movies. A very dear friend of mine tried to get me to watch the movie...I fell asleep. She tried again...and I fell asleep. She tried yet again...and I fell asleep. She tried one last time and I watched the whole movie and wanted to watch it again...even the beginning which for me seemed rather slow. I understood why they made the beginning that way...it just seemed S L O W the first 3 times I tried to watch it. I also was working 3rd trick and was tired all the time :o) (Thanks KP for sticking it out and making me watch it...love you!!)

Look at this quote...it goes along with what I was trying to share yesterday in Godspeed about each day being new. "Marilla, isn't it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet? (Anne Shirley)" ~ L.M. Montgomery {Anne of Green Gables}

Lamentations 3:22-24 (Amplified Bible) It is because of the Lord's mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness. The Lord is my portion or share, says my living being (my inner self); therefore will I hope in Him and wait expectantly for Him.

So true! Our God is so amazing, don't you think? We can have a fresh start each and every day. I need one...how about you? Are there things you do that you keep doing even though you keep resolving to "not to anymore"? Things like: smoking; gossiping; not submitting to your husband or letting him lead your family; cussing; screaming at your children...and on and on.

What about the things that you "want to add" to your life like: loosing weight; eating healthy; exercising; making time with God a priority; reading the Word outside of church; praying for people that you tell you will pray for them ~ right when they ask; family time; organize the house; free up your schedule...and on and on.

Hey wait a minute though...it is not just every day for that fresh start it is right after we mess up...like the second after. All we have to do is run to our Daddy right away. If it is something that we need discipline for then we still need to suck it up and run to Him...take our discipline with the knowledge that we are His daughters. Remember in Hebrews 12:3-11 it talks about how God chastening us is proof that we are His and He does it for our good. He is a good Daddy all the time...not just when He blesses us, heals us ,or answers our prayers.

Hebrews 12:12,13 (NKJV) Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.

This last scripture shows us what we ought to do after the discipline...we should walk in His ways...we should repent. Somethings are very hard to "make straight" and that is when we need to keep asking Him for strength, wisdom and discernment. He is your present help in time of need.

I pray you are encouraged to walk in His ways...to make straight the things you made crooked. Remember it is for your good that you were corrected...you are His little princess...His baby girl...and He loves you sooo much!

Have a blessed day with your Daddy ~ love you sistas!!
Laurie Kay

Godspeed

2010-01-02T08:49:00.005-05:00

So it is Day 2 of 2010...how is your year going so far? Are you still trapped in 2009?

Yesterday was very interesting for me...I found myself fighting off some of the same stuff as last year. The same things that tried to bring me down mentally last year tried to attack me yesterday.

Does that ball dropping really make all things different? The starting of a new year & new decade ~ does that really make things new? What about that saying that today is a new day?

Only God can truly make all things new (see Revelation 21:5) but we can do our part. What we help God? No, we help ourselves live for God and glorify Him. Wait...LK has gone crazy again. No, she is just having a little fun :o) and referring to herself in the 3rd person...ahhh...crazy :o)

You see, we must change our perspective on things. If we allow negativity to rule our minds then we will not have the life He wants for us. Negativity breeds fear, doubt, anxiety, and sometimes it paralyzes us ~ all these things are the opposite of walking in faith. God wants us living a life abundant and free...one that shows His love and is a light for others to come to know Him.

Lamentations 3:22-24 (Amplified Bible) It is because of the Lord's mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness. The Lord is my portion or share, says my living being (my inner self); therefore will I hope in Him and wait expectantly for Him.
Genesis 24:12 (Amplified Bible) And he said, O Lord, God of my master Abraham, I pray You, cause me to meet with good success today, and show kindness to my master Abraham.

These scriptures in action helped me to have the victory over "last years news". I sat with my hubby and we talked. It was amazing to have someone to talk it out with who knows me so well and really cares ~ and still loves me ~ getting it out of my head was the first step and then my mind raced with scriptures and His peace flooded my soul. Thank you Daddy for Your faithfulness!!

So the title is Godspeed...a definition I found for this is...to thrive or to prosper. {I wish that God may speed you OR I wish that God may bless you with success.}

This is my prayer for each of you sistas...whatever you are facing that is "last years news" I pray that our Daddy comes and speeds you...that He blesses you with success.

Do you have a close sista friend to talk to? Where you can pour your heart out and know she will not judge you or think any less of you? Someone who will not just listen, but right after pray and encourage you with the word of God. If you do not have one...you need one...we need each other to walk this journey of life...bare naked honest with each other and speaking the truth in love and encouraging with God's precious words of life ~ that is a real sista friend.

Godspeed sistas...He loves you so much & so do I!
Laurie Kay

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T09:39:00.004-05:00

I hope you all had a great Christmas Season!

Was it blessed & restful and not stressful?

My Christmas was very restful. My children and husband were off together ~ this does not happen often. We had a lot of fun. I was even able to go on a few dates with my man!! SOOO nice!!!!

Christmas was also a little hard for me...a lot of growing pains. I have been preparing for some different teachings for this new year and God has been working some things out in me first ~ I was going through what I like to call a growth spurt. Some things are hard to "see & face" and others are easier ~ kind of like when our children are growing they can have pains in certain areas of their body, they eat a lot and even sleep a lot.

It is funny how when you are in the midst of these growth spurts you can see clearly that this is good for you and that it is for a purpose. The hard thing is that you don't always know the purpose. *sigh* Sometimes I think that I would be able to endure better if I knew why...and then I remember...somethings I can't know the why because I would miss a lot of the little nuggets of truth that I need to learn and the strength that needs to grow in my soul. Does this make sense???

Read this scripture and may we be sistas who grow not sisters who fall.

2 Peter 3:17-18 (Amplified Bible) Let me warn you therefore, beloved, that knowing these things beforehand, you should be on your guard, lest you be carried away by the error of lawless and wicked [persons and] fall from your own [present] firm condition [your own steadfastness of mind]. But grow in grace (undeserved favor, spiritual strength) and recognition and knowledge and understanding of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (the Messiah). To Him [be] glory (honor, majesty, and splendor) both now and to the day of eternity. Amen (so be it)!

I am very excited for 2010. What is God going to do? Who is He going to save? Who is He going to heal? What relationships are going to be restored? What attitudes are going to be changed? What are we going to learn? Are we going to draw closer to Him through this year or push Him aside? Sooo many more questions...sooo little space.

I want to draw closer to Him...Daddy, I thank You in Jesus name that You are with me...that You will never leave me or forsake me...I thank You that whatever happens this year You love me and nothing can separate me from that love...thank You for keeping me in the palm of Your hand...I love You and am so thankful that You will for me a future and a hope. Please help me to grow in You, and to walk in You. Be glorified in my life...in Jesus precious name. Amen.

Happy New Year sistas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 31

2009-12-31T08:23:00.002-05:00

December 31
Please read today’s scriptures out loud. I inserted the Old Testament scriptures for you to go back and read.

Matthew 2:13-23 (NKJV) Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.” When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.” (Hosea 11:1) Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying: “ A voice was heard in Ramah, Lamentation, weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, Refusing to be comforted, Because they are no more.” (Jeremiah 31:15) Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, “He shall be called a Nazarene.”

Jesus is the fulfillment of all the law and prophets (See John 1:45; Acts 28:33; Matthew 5:17). Our amazing God became Man to save, rescue, heal, deliver, preserve and help you and me. This makes me so thankful ~ stop right now and thank Him for all He has done for you.

Tonight is New Year’s Eve ~ a time of celebration. Many people tell their loved ones, “If you are going out tonight, please, be safe.” Did you see the great lengths God went to to provide safety for His Son? He knew what was going to happen when His Son came into the world. He knew all this before the foundation of the world and He planned out every detail then ~ none of this is a “Plan B”. (See 1 Peter 1:20) He told the prophets.

In dreams He warned Joseph (Three times in this section of scripture) about what they needed to do right when they needed to do it. Our God is great and greatly to be praised!

Let this New Year be a year of seeking God’s wisdom and direction for you and your family. Then walk in it, praising and thanking Him every step of the way. He will lead you and guide you into all truth and make known to you the way you should go ~ because He loves you so much!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 30

2009-12-30T11:13:00.004-05:00

December 30
Luke 2:36-38 (NKJV) Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

This is an amazing section of scripture in so many ways. This is the only scripture in which the Prophetess Anna is mentioned, but it speaks volumes about her.

Notice the scripture says she was “of a great age”…and the math equals about 91 years past her virginity…so she’s gotta be older than 100, right!!??!! Our culture is very disrespectful of the elderly in our communities. We don’t want to “hangout” with them, learn from them, or even think they do anything fun or important. It is so sad.

I have a lot of sweet sistas who are of retirement age.

If you are an older woman I hope you are encouraged that your best days are not necessarily behind you, but they can be in the now and also in the future. If God can bless Anna in her “greater” years…He can and wants to bless you as well! We do not hit a certain age and then poof we are no longer valuable or useful in His kingdom…that, my sistas, is a lie from the enemy ~ so don’t listen to it or think it!

From what this scripture says about her and from what I have read about biblical widowhood, Anna is a faithful woman of the Lord. She lived her life in His service ~ for His glory. It says, “…who did not depart from the temple”. From that I take that she clung to God ~ He really was her life and length of days ~ her all in all.

“And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord,” …this makes me think that the Spirit told her who Jesus was. He was Who she was looking and longing for. She was blessed to live and see Him.

It also says, “and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Can you imagine all the people she would tell? It says she was at the temple serving God day and night. I have to think, with her being a woman, that she could not contain herself but told everyone she saw.

Can you even imagine it, you are going about your day, serving God and then there He is, the One prophesied about is right before you. She was blessed indeed!!

So, where are you right now? What might you need to do with this lesson? Has God convicted you of anything? Have you been encouraged by this scriptural glimpse into the life of Anna? If you have been convicted, then be quick to repent and obey what He is saying to you. If you are encouraged ~ bless Him.

Let’s all praise Him for His goodness, faithfulness and love. He is so good to us and just like Anna ~ we are blessed indeed!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 29

2009-12-29T09:09:00.002-05:00

December 29
Luke 2:25-35 (NKJV) And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

I love Simeon.

This portion of scripture is such comfort for me. There is so much to share and you need to do a lot of work today, so, start out in prayer. Ask God to enlighten the eyes of your understanding so that you would see wonderful things in His Word. Ask Him to help you gain a heart of wisdom from His Word. Ask Him to speak fresh and new to you during this time.

Things to notice and ask for God’s wisdom and guidance:

*Simeon was just and devout ~ what does that mean?

*He was waiting for the Consolation of Israel ~ what does that mean?

*The Holy Spirit was upon Him ~ why is this specifically mentioned?

*The Holy Spirit revealed to him that he would see the Lord’s Christ before he died ~ how does that make you feel?

*He went to the temple that day led by the Spirit ~ do you think that the Spirit told him that Jesus would be there or just that he needed to go; and why do you think that?

*Simeon took Jesus up in his arms and blessed God ~ he held Him…it makes me cry…how precious that is to me…to hold Him ~ embrace Him…did he hold Him like we do with our little baby…nuzzling Him in love and affection ~ what do you think about this?

*To thank God for letting him depart in peace ~ what a way to live before you die…he beheld God’s Son ~ what are your thoughts?

*Salvation for all peoples ~ all peoples ~ light of revelation for Gentiles and glory of Israel ~ what does that mean to you?

*Simeon’s words made Joseph and Mary marvel ~ how much marveling can one person take ~ think about all the Lord had done for them.

*He says to Mary ~ not Joseph ~ about the piercing of your own soul…I would love to know why not Joseph too ~ what are your thoughts?

These will be great things to learn from Him face to face! Praise Him for His Word, girls, and the time you spent with Him!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 28

2009-12-28T08:58:00.002-05:00

December 28
Matthew 2:1-12 (NKJV) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: ‘ But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’” Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.” When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.

Today is a fun lesson!!

We are just going to raise questions for you to think about and answer…so have fun! If you need help, do searches on the internet…use a variety or sources – put in the questions; look up this section of scripture in commentaries. You will not be disappointed in the time you spend searching for answers.

*Do you notice that this scripture uses the term wise men and not kings ~ they were Magi ~ which are astrologers. Why do people think they are kings? Who are they really?

*They go to Herod thinking that they would find the newborn King. Do you think that they may have thought that Herod had a son who was to rule?

*It says men but no number is given…many people believe there to be three because there were three gifts given. What do you think?

*They came to worship Him. Why?

*Why didn’t Herod send any of his own men with the wise men?

*The star is not still…"it went before them and stood”, why was the star moving?

*At some point they did not see the star because it says, “when they saw the star they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy"? Why are these Magi so joyful?

*It says, “they had come into the house,” why not stable, cave or barn?

*Why are gold, frankincense and myrrh the gifts?

*Who warned them in a dream and why?

I hope you had a great time thinking through this scripture. Did it come alive in a new way for you? I pray it did and I hope you have a great day!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 27

2009-12-27T09:48:00.002-05:00

December 27
Luke 2:21 (NKJV) And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.

Today let’s focus on Jesus…who is He? Start in prayer and ask God to open your eyes so that you would see wonderful things from His Word today. Read these scriptures out loud ~ sometimes we “see” new things when we read and hear them at the same time. Then let the Words sink into your soul.

John 1:1-5 (NIV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.

Isaiah 60:1(AMP) ARISE [from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you--rise to a new life]! Shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you!

Psalm 119:105 (AMP) Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

John 8:12 (AMP) Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the Light which is Life.

Isaiah 9:2 (NIV) The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.

Isaiah 42:6 (AMP) I the Lord have called You [the Messiah] for a righteous purpose and in righteousness; I will take You by the hand and will keep You; I will give You for a covenant to the people [Israel], for a light to the nations [Gentiles],

Isaiah 60:3 (AMP) And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 26

2009-12-26T13:20:00.000-05:00

December 26
Luke 2:8-20 (NKJV) Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

I really love that God chose to announce His only Begotten Son’s birth to shepherds first. These shepherds were “living out in the fields”. They were not the wealthiest people; they were also not in the most sought after job position. What are your thoughts about God’s choice?

We have seen a lot of encounters where an angel appeared to a human…but here it also adds that “the glory of the Lord shone around them”. After the angel gave the news and what the sign was to be ~ it says, “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” It was not just one angel that came down for this announcement…but a multitude of heavenly host.

I love that, after the angel and multitude of heavenly host leave, the shepherds make haste to see this Babe that they are told about in such a dramatic and fabulous way. They make it all known and all marvel. “Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.”

Oh my gravy, what a night they had! I would be on cloud nine for years from that experience…it would consume my thoughts…how amazing to even try and imagine it all! I can be pretty creative in my day-dreams, and I still think that even what I imagine can’t compare with what really happened…I don’t think Hollywood could even come close to illustrating this scene…what do you think? Can you even imagine this majestic scene? Glory to God in the highest!!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 25

2009-12-24T21:53:00.001-05:00

December 25
Luke 2:1-7 (NKJV) And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Merry Christmas!! It is Christmas Morning! All our devotional time has been working up to this very day. I pray you have a very merry and blessed day in Him, beloved. As you face your day, remember the greatest gift ever given ~ Jesus.

We have spent so much time in His Word and in prayer ~ seeking Him for help, wisdom and strength ~ that you should be “armored up” and ready to face anything that comes your way. When you are faced with “that relative” who may be a thorn to you ~ be a blessing. Show the love and grace that you have been shown. All the patience He has had with you ~ give that out.

In fact, pray for your day right now. Pray for the things/people/situations that have been difficult in the past. Pray that those people come to know Jesus and live for Him. Pray that today would be so different from every other time your family gathered that it be a “day only God could have made” kind of day.

Seek peace. Seek love. Seek Jesus.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 24

2009-12-24T10:32:00.001-05:00

December 24
It’s Christmas Eve ~ it’s finally here! All that we have been working towards is coming tomorrow. So today we are going to have another Selah Day. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day from Day 1 to Day 23. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG.

Please remember: don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us and, yet, taking intentional pauses and reflecting or meditating on His Word can yield great profit for your inner man.

It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?

Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.

Enjoy this new day in Him!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 23

2009-12-23T09:45:00.004-05:00

December 23
Micah 5:2 (NIV) "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."
John 7:42 (NIV) Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David's family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?"
1 Samuel 16:1 (NIV) The LORD said to Samuel, "How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king."

I can’t help but think of the Christmas carol O little town of Bethlehem.

O little town of Bethlehem / How still we see thee lie / Above thy deep and dreamless sleep / The silent stars go by / Yet in thy dark streets shineth / The everlasting Light / The hopes and fears of all the years / Are met in thee tonight / For Christ is born of Mary / And gathered all above / While mortals sleep, the angels keep / Their watch of wondering love / O morning stars together / Proclaim the holy birth / And praises sing to God our King / And Peace to men on earth / How silently, how silently / The wondrous gift is given! / So God imparts to human hearts / The blessings of His heaven. / No ear may his His coming, / But in this world of sin, / Where meek souls will receive him still, / The dear Christ enters in. / O holy Child of Bethlehem / Descend to us, we pray / Cast out our sin and enter in / Be born in us today / We hear the Christmas angels / The great glad tidings tell / O come to us, abide with us / Our Lord Emmanuel.

I like that this song mentions the real reason we celebrate Christmas. I do not see this song as “worshipping the town”; rather, it is just an acknowledgement that, though Bethlehem was small, it was chosen by God to be the city for the birth of His only begotten Son.

It also reminds me that God does not pick out only the rich of the world, the wisest, or the sharpest dressed to become His children ~ He opens the invitation for us all to come to Him. We all can bend our knee to Him ~ believing in our heart and confessing with our mouth the Lord Jesus ~ and, by so doing, we shall {not might or maybe, but shall} be saved.

Look at David, he was the youngest and not in the line-up of sons before Samuel, the prophet; he was out tending the flock. God says none of the sons in the line-up are to be the new king ~ but, when David comes in; God says he is the one.

How does this make you feel that God is not looking at things the way that we sometimes do…or that He doesn’t pick things the way that we would?

He is amazing in His love for us all. Praise Him for calling you out of your sinful life to be His daughter…I am so glad that you bent your will to follow His. Keep seeking God’s will & walking in His path.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 22

2009-12-22T08:12:00.001-05:00

December 22
Matthew 1:22-23 (AMP) All this took place that it might be fulfilled which the Lord had spoken through the prophet, Behold, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel--which, when translated, means, God with us.
Isaiah 7:14 (AMP) Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign: Behold, the young woman who is unmarried and a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel [God with us].
John 1:14 (NIV) The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Emmanuel or Immanuel means God with us. Let these words sink in. God with us ~ He is not far off ~ He is not with us sometimes ~ He is not with certain believers or special Christians ~ He is God with us.

According to some dictionaries, the word “with” is a function/action word and so He is not just present with you, in you, or being with you. He is for you ~ actively working or participating with you. You are the object of His attention and affection because of Jesus ~ not just for your good but for His glory. He is over you ~ your ruler and watchman. He is on your side. You are in His possession and in His care. He is with us in spite of us.

Now, you may be asking how can you get all that out of that phrase…well, that is what the blessed dictionaries and concordances are for, my friends…I took what I found in them and reworded it here for you. All of these statements can be backed up with scriptures. He is not just present or dwelling inside us…He is active in us for our good and for His glory!!

What does that do for you? Does it make your heart sing? Does it give you hope, peace, or strength? Since God is with you ~ present and active, how might that affect your present situation? How can these scriptures become alive in your daily life?

Find some other scriptures that confirm these truths. Ponder them as you go about your day.

Praise Him today that He is with you ~ He is in you and actively moving in your life! Glory to His name!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 21

2009-12-21T07:53:00.002-05:00

December 21
Luke 1:67-80 (NKJV) Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:“ Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life. “ And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.” So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
John 1:6-8 (NIV) There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
Isaiah 40: 3 (AMP) A voice of one who cries: Prepare in the wilderness the way of the Lord [clear away the obstacles]; make straight and smooth in the desert a highway for our God!

Yesterday we talked about what it might have been that Zacharias shared with the people that they then discussed…I gave a few thoughts about this. Now let’s look at what happens next.

The wording within these two sections of scripture makes me think that “the sayings” and “Zacharias’ prophesying” are two different things. Yesterday, it said, “and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings (so what did he speak??) were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him. (And today) Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied,” (emphasis mine)

If we think about this it is awesome that the story of God reaching down in Elizabeth and Zacharias’ life touched so many people and brought people closer to God. Elizabeth and Zacharias’ reproach among the people was taken away so much so that God then used Zacharias to prophesy about his son who would eventually testify to the Light.

Praise your God that you are His child and He is your God. Reread the scriptures and have a blessed day!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 20

2009-12-20T12:37:00.002-05:00

December 20
Luke 1:21-22 (NKJV) And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
Luke 1:57-66 (NKJV) Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her. So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.

I used to be puzzled as to why Zacharias was made mute…and then it hit me…God was not just punishing his unbelief…He was using it for His Glory and to bless those who knew Zacharias and Elizabeth. Notice it says that, after he wrote down what the baby was to be called, everyone marveled. Then God opened his mouth and loosed his tongue.

The first words out of his mouth were praises to God…then fear came on all. Also notice that the sayings Zacharias shared were discussed throughout all the hill country. It seems to me that they truly understood all that had happened and that is why fear came upon them. Could this be what Zacharias shared with them?
1. That all the things that had happened in Elizabeth and Zacharias’ life leading up to the birth of their son had happened for a reason.
2. That their son was the one to prepare the way of the Lord and that he had been prophesied about over 400 years before.
3. Every detail of the angel’s announcement.
4. That the Messiah was coming.

God used Zacharias’ muteness and his “sayings” as the means to spread the news that the Messiah was near. God was on the move again. It had to be an exciting time for them…something to be talked about and discussed. I can see people asking questions like this, “So what exactly was prophesied about this child and the Messiah?”

What are your thoughts about this portion of scripture? Spend time in prayer and rejoice in God for today and for the blessed fortune that you have to be able to read His Word and learn from Him ~ He loves you.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 19

2009-12-19T09:52:00.002-05:00

December 19
Luke 1:46-56 (NKJV) And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.” And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.

This is Mary’s response to Elizabeth after she said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.” Luke 1:42b-45 (NKJV)

Elizabeth ends by saying, “blessed is she who believed”. Then Mary goes right into praising God for who He is not just for what He had done for her. To be used by God in such a way, Mary must have had a humble spirit and strength of character because those attributes shine forth in Mary’s response. She says who she is ~ His maidservant and, by praising God first, she shows that her heart’s desire is for Him to be magnified. She is blessed, happy, and fortunate ~ because He who is mighty has done great things for her.

Mary models how we should respond to the mighty acts that God does for His children. Praise Him…give Him the glory and honor due His name…tell others what He has done with humility so that He alone is magnified. This is such a good lesson for me…I want all I do and say to bring Him glory and honor…I want Him to be praised by my life ~ through my deeds and my words & for Him alone to be magnified.

Help us, O Lord, to live lives that are worthy of You ~ fully pleasing to You. Help us to walk in the path You have laid out for us and be glorified. Help us to learn and grow in You for Your glory and honor, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 18

2009-12-18T08:03:00.001-05:00

December 18
Luke 1:39-45 (NKJV) Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”

I love that Mary goes with haste to see Elizabeth. Is she running off to see someone who might understand her situation and encourage her? Or maybe she just wants to see for herself that Elizabeth is indeed with child and rejoice with her that she is no longer barren. Or is she just staying there a while to be out of sight while she is pregnant? We will see tomorrow that Mary stays with Elizabeth about three months and leaves right before Elizabeth delivers. So, whatever the “exact” reason…Mary goes in haste and stays to help for a while. As a woman, I like that she goes and I have to think it is a good thing for both women. What are your thoughts about this?

Now let’s look into this part: when Elizabeth hears Mary, the baby leaps in her womb. This is so sweet to me. If you are a mother you can relate to the excitement over your baby moving inside of you. Did your baby ever move at the sound of someone’s voice as if they were happy to hear from him or her? I am thinking of the times when my husband could finally feel the baby’s movement and it seemed that the baby was “playing” with him as he talked and touched my belly.

Think about this for a moment. This is the first time that Mary sees Elizabeth while she is pregnant, and so, little John moves to the voice of a stranger. Now that makes the whole event even more miraculous to me. It’s as if God-inspired knowledge was given to this developing 6 month old baby in utero.

Recall with me it says Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit at her greeting as well. What are your thoughts about this? What do you make of this greeting, their first encounter after being with child? Talk out your thoughts prayerfully with God and pray for this new day ahead of you…I hope it is amazing for you, beloved!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 17

2009-12-17T13:48:00.002-05:00

December 17
Luke 1: 23-25 (NKJV) So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”

Today we see that after Zacharias finished his time of service, his wife Elizabeth did indeed conceive and was no longer barren. She is quoted as saying that the Lord took away her reproach among the people. It was a big deal to be barren in those days…you were looked at as being one who was not receiving God’s blessing or one who was being disciplined for some sin you had committed.

I minister to a lot of women who have suffered with infertility issues, miscarriages, stillbirths, SIDS and infant loss ~ and this is a very hard portion of scripture for them to hear or read. But think about this for a moment…Elizabeth was barren and advanced in her years when God sent an angel down to announce that she would conceive a son…and not just any son…but the one who had been prophesied about some 400 years before and who would prepare the way of the Lord.

Do you think that she would be going crazy with awe and love for the Lord? All glory goes to God here because there was no way for this to have been accomplished without divine intervention. I look at her barrenness not as a punishment, but as a blessing. Think of all the things she learned and the strength she gained in Him before she conceived which prepared her to raise John.

What have you faced this year that was huge? Is there a promise from God’s word that you are clinging to, a desire you are hoping is fulfilled? Does it seem like God is far away from you? Do you feel alone, depressed, forsaken, abandoned, or hopeless?

He loves you so much. I do not know why things are the way that they are now, but be assured, if you are a child of God, you are not forsaken, abandoned or alone ~ He is right there with you. He wants you to take hope in Him and trust fully that He will work your situation for good because you love Him. It may not be exactly how you want it…but it will be that which is best for your life both now and in the future. I know when you are in the heat of the trial or trouble that this is the last thing you want to hear or believe, but it is true. Hold tight to Him, trust Him, and abide in Him.

Ask God for strength, wisdom, and discernment to do His will ~ then do what He says. Keep yourself in prayer and His Word because He will lead you and help you. He loves you so much and calls you His own.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 16

2009-12-16T07:28:00.001-05:00

December 16
Today we are having another Selah Day. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day from Day 9 to Day 15. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG.

Don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us but taking intentional pauses and reflecting or meditating on His Word can yield great profit for your inner man.

It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?

Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned, and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.

Enjoy this new day in Him!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 15

2009-12-15T09:19:00.006-05:00

December 15
Revelation 1:4-6 (AMP) John to the seven assemblies (churches) that are in Asia: May grace (God's unmerited favor) be granted to you and spiritual peace (the peace of Christ's kingdom) from Him Who is and Who was and Who is to come, and from the seven Spirits [the sevenfold Holy Spirit] before His throne, And from Jesus Christ the faithful and trustworthy Witness, the Firstborn of the dead [first to be brought back to life] and the Prince (Ruler) of the kings of the earth. To Him Who ever loves us and has once [for all] loosed and freed us from our sins by His own blood, And formed us into a kingdom (a royal race), priests to His God and Father--to Him be the glory and the power and the majesty and the dominion throughout the ages and forever and ever. Amen (so be it).

Oh, God is so good to you and me!!! Look back at Revelation…it says, “…Who ever loves us and has once [for all] loosed and freed us from our sins by His own blood.” Jesus is the Who and He ever loves us…pause and think this over…He ever loves us. Now look at “once for all” ~ His one time sacrifice was good enough for all ~ for every one and for all times. There is no need for another sacrifice. The scripture in (Hebrews 10:3-5) is referring to the sacrifices for sins, as directed by the Law in the Old Covenant, and, in the Law, the sins were not taken away by the blood of animals. But we, under the New Covenant, are blessed to have our sins taken away because of the precious blood of Jesus…and that once for all. We have been loosed and freed from them ~ from their grip on us.

Have you been freed from sin? Have you had any sins loosed over your life…ones that were once controlling or overpowering you that now have no grip over you? What a blessing it is indeed ~ to be freed by Jesus and to walk in that freedom.

Hebrews 2:17 (NIV) For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.

Jesus had to be made like us ~ to come down to earth and be born as a human. He became a high priest and made atonement for our sins. Now think about this ~ in the Old Testament the high priest offered the sacrifice for atonement and, in the New Testament, Jesus offered Himself as the sacrifice…He was the High Priest and the Lamb for the sacrifice. What does that do for your soul? What kind of comfort do you gain from knowing that Jesus had to become a human baby to then become our sacrifice? It may seem crazy to think about this “Easter” message at Christmas…but, just as it was announced by the angel, that is why the Baby came…the two messages really do go together…the Baby Jesus is the Lamb of God!

Spend time in prayer and enjoy your forgiven-in-Christ-Jesus day!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 14

2009-12-14T06:43:00.005-05:00

December 14
Matthew 1: 18-21 (NKJV) Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.”

There are many good things in this portion of scripture. There isn’t much mentioned about Joseph in the Word of God and it’s good to get any info on him that we can. I love that this text points out to us that Joseph was a just man. He also doesn’t seem to be rushing into things but he is instead very thoughtful. I also love the fact that an angel of the Lord appears to him and speaks to him. These are all some great things to think about and dive deeper into ~ so please do so, it will be fun homework for you.

I feel that for today, however, that we are to dive into the last part, “…you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” Two scriptures come to mind about this ~ please read them out loud and let their words sink into your soul.

Psalm 32:1 (AMP) BLESSED (HAPPY, fortunate, to be envied) is he who has forgiveness of his transgression continually exercised upon him, whose sin is covered. Romans 4:7 (AMP) Blessed and happy and to be envied are those whose iniquities are forgiven and whose sins are covered up and completely buried.

Jesus came to save you and me from our sins ~ does this make you happy? Can you rejoice in this? Are you like, as these scriptures say, “Blessed, happy, fortunate, to be envied?” It’s pretty huge ~ all not just some, all of your sins ~ past, present, and future ~ are forgiven. All your sins are covered up and completely buried by His blood. Linger over this and think about what this means to you.

Spend some time in prayer after pondering these great truths and we will meet right back here tomorrow about this very subject…"for He will save His people from their sins.”

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 13

2009-12-13T13:26:00.002-05:00

December 13
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

Read the scripture again and out loud this time. Let’s dive into verse 7 now.

*Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end ~ Luke 1:33 (NIV) and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."

*Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom ~ Luke 1:32 (NIV) He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David,

*To order it and establish it ~ 1 Peter 5:10-11 (AMP) And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace [Who imparts all blessing and favor], Who has called you to His [own] eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will Himself complete and make you what you ought to be, establish and ground you securely, and strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the dominion (power, authority, rule) forever and ever. Amen (so be it).

*With judgment and justice ~ Revelation 19:11 (AMP) After that I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse [appeared]! The One Who was riding it is called Faithful (Trustworthy, Loyal, Incorruptible, Steady) and True, and He passes judgment and wages war in righteousness (holiness, justice, and uprightness). Revelation 16:7 (NIV) And I heard the altar respond: "Yes, Lord God Almighty, true and just are your judgments."

*From that time forward, even forever ~ Hebrews 13:8 (NIV) Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

*The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this ~ John 2:17 (AMP) And His disciples remembered that it is written [in the Holy Scriptures], Zeal (the fervor of love) for Your house will eat Me up. [I will be consumed with jealousy for the honor of Your house.] Isaiah 55:11(AMP) So shall My word be that goes forth out of My mouth: it shall not return to Me void [without producing any effect, useless], but it shall accomplish that which I please and purpose, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.

WOW ladies! We spent three days on this one scripture and read many wonderful words of life that helped deepen our understanding of it. I hope it wasn’t too much, but rather, that it inspires you to want to dive deeper into His Word and learn from Him. Enjoy your day in Him, beloved, He is faithful.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 12

2009-12-12T07:45:00.004-05:00

December 12
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

Today we are going to finish up the second half of verse 6 and, girls, it is pretty deep and oh so good for us to hear!

*Wonderful ~ Judges 13:18 (AMP) And the Angel of the Lord said to him, Why do you ask my name, seeing it is wonderful?

*Counselor ~ Romans 11:33-35(NIV) Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! "Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?" "Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?” Isaiah 28:29 (AMP) This also comes from the Lord of hosts, Who is wonderful in counsel [and] excellent in wisdom and effectual working.

*Mighty God ~ Rev 4:8 (NIV) Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings. Day and night they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." Zephaniah 3:17 (AMP) The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing.

*Everlasting Father ~ Psalm 90:2 (NIV) Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. Isaiah 63:16 (AMP) For [surely] You are our Father, even though Abraham [our ancestor] does not know us and Israel (Jacob) does not acknowledge us; You, O Lord, are [still] our Father, our Redeemer from everlasting is Your name.

*Prince of Peace ~ Ephesians 2:14a (NKJV) For He Himself is our peace, 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (AMP) Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace (the peace of His kingdom) at all times and in all ways [under all circumstances and conditions, whatever comes]. The Lord [be] with you all. Hebrews 7:2 (AMP) And Abraham gave to him a tenth portion of all [the spoil]. He is primarily, as his name when translated indicates, king of righteousness, and then he is also king of Salem, which means king of peace.

You covered a lot today in your devotional time…praise Him for who He is ~ He loves you.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 11

2009-12-11T07:39:00.004-05:00

December 11
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

I love this scripture. So much hope wells up in me when I read it ~ every time I hear it! As we break down this scripture over the next few days it will look like this: my comment on a specific portion of this scripture, then one or more supporting scriptures. May these words be stepping stones for God to reveal His Word to you in a deeper way.

*For unto us ~ a Child is born, a Son is given ~ that “us” is you and me ~ See John 3:16 (AMP) For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.

*Government upon His shoulder ~ Matthew 2:6 (AMP) And you Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, you are not in any way least or insignificant among the chief cities of Judah; for from you shall come a Ruler (Leader) Who will govern and shepherd My people Israel.; Matthew 28:18 (AMP) Jesus approached and, breaking the silence, said to them, All authority (all power of rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.; Revelations 12:5 (AMP) And she brought forth a male Child, One Who is destined to shepherd (rule) all the nations with an iron staff (scepter), and her Child was caught up to God and to His throne.

*His name will be called ~ notice it says name, not names…think about what is wrapped up in that one name ~ Jesus…here are a few things that are said about “that one name” ~ John 20:31 (AMP) But these are written (recorded) in order that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ (the Anointed One), the Son of God, and that through believing and cleaving to and trusting and relying upon Him you may have life through (in) His name [through Who He is].; Philippians 2:10 (AMP) That in (at) the name of Jesus every knee should (must) bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,; 1 Corinthians 6:11 (AMP) And such some of you were [once]. But you were washed clean (purified by a complete atonement for sin and made free from the guilt of sin), and you were consecrated (set apart, hallowed), and you were justified [pronounced righteous, by trusting] in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the [Holy] Spirit of our God.

For unto you, beloved, God gave Jesus. That is reason to rejoice.

Spend some time in prayer thanking God for who He is, for what He has done, and then seek Him for help in your daily life and any trials or hardships you may be in. He cares about each detail of your life…take it to Him and seek His will ~ He loves you so much ~ so very much!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 10

2009-12-10T05:18:00.001-05:00

December 10
Luke 1:26-38 (NKJV) Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

We are going to look at a different aspect of this scripture today…angels…and, in particular, Gabriel. Does it seem to you that Gabriel was very excited to be sharing this news with Mary? With his first word being “rejoice,” I get the feeling that he was; also, blessed is used, and his news is all summed up with an exclamation point ~ which is not something you see just thrown about in scriptures.

All this then makes me wonder: do angels have feelings…Think about it: they longed ~ according to the NIV; the NKJV says desires ~ to look into these things (1 Peter 1:12); there is joy in the presence of angels…over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:10 NKJV); and Devil…is said to have great wrath (Rev 12:12 NKJV) ~ remember he was a fallen angel. The angels in heaven worship God day and night…and I don’t think that they are robots “just doing their job”…or why would so many have sided with Lucifer and become “fallen angels”? Just makes me think…does it make you think too?

Anyway, back to Gabriel…he was sent to Mary to tell her that she was to carry the “Son of God” ~ did you notice that he “came in” and “departed”. When he came to see Zacharias…it doesn’t mention that he came in or departed…it just said appeared (see December 6). This wording today seems so mannerly and respectful. It just leapt off the page at me and it inspired me! Gabriel had the blessed privilege of giving the news to Mary that she was to carry the “Holy One” and the “Son of God”. I get the feeling that Gabriel is showing reverence for His God. What are your thoughts about his behavior?

I just have to praise Him ~ we serve a great, loving, and mighty God! He is so good to you, beloved…enjoy this day that He has made…rejoice and be glad in it!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 9

2009-12-09T06:34:00.003-05:00

December 9
Luke 1:26-38 (NKJV) Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

Notice with me some key points: Gabriel is the angel sent by God; a city in Galilee named Nazareth is the destination; Gabriel is going to a virgin who is betrothed or promised to a man named Joseph; this man Joseph is of the house of David; the virgin’s name is Mary; she is troubled by the manner of greeting; Gabriel tells her that she will have a Son; this Son will be great and reign forever; she is confused because she has not been with a man; Gabriel explains that this Child will be called the Son of God.

Something that hit me in a new way was that Gabriel did not stop there with those things. To further encourage Mary he told her that her relative who once was barren or unable to conceive had indeed conceived and was in her sixth month. He then said, “For with God nothing is impossible.” He was encouraging her that if God was able to open Elizabeth’s womb then God could fulfill what he had just spoken to her.

She may not fully understand what was happening to her or recall all the prophesies of old, but she knew Elizabeth could not have a child and this angel, Gabriel, said she was now with child. What she says next now makes sense to me…it’s like saying, “I do not understand, but I trust the Lord and so then let it be how you have said.” She yields to God’s will without needing to understand it all.

Is there anything that you have been trusting God for that seems miraculous? Trust in the Lord with all your heart; lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path…He is faithful and trustworthy ~ and He loves you! Give thanks and praise Him!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 8

2009-12-08T06:36:00.003-05:00

December 8
Today we are doing something a little different. We’ve covered so many things on this journey together (through Christmas Time Is Here) that I think it would be greatly beneficial to go back and do a review. So, today we are having a Selah Day! For us girls, a Selah Day is a holy pause where we intentionally stop, reflect, and meditate on His Word. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG for that Day.

Don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us but taking a Selah Day can yield great profit for your inner man.

It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?

Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned, and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.

Enjoy this new day in Him!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 7

2009-12-07T07:09:00.002-05:00

December 7
Luke 1:18-20 (NKJV) And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”

Zacharias ~ you just have to love him! His response reminds me of Abraham and Sarah…they too were “older than baby age” and were blessed with a child. And the angel’s response is so funny to me…can I say it like this? “Dude…don’t you know who I am…I’m Gabriel…I live in the presence of God. If I say it is so…it’s gonna be so…cuz I get my orders straight from God and He happens to be The Omniscient One!! And just so there isn’t any question in anyone else’s mind…you’re gonna be mute till it happens! Glory Be to God ~ Peace ~ Out!” And now He’s gone…he came fast and is gone fast!

Yesterday we learned that Zacharias was frightened when he first saw Gabriel. So one has to think that angels don’t look “just like humans” or why would he have been frightened. So I have to wonder, why didn’t he think it would be possible to have a baby? He just beheld an angel! Both are pretty amazing; it’s not every day one sees an angel and it is not every day someone older has a baby. Remember, from what we know in scripture God had been essentially silent for 400 years ~ not sending angels or men to prophesy.

Can you see how the birth of John is so important to the Story of Christmas? His destiny is amazing and vital…I just had to share it with you for these devotions, because I feel this section often gets overlooked. This was important to God. He had it to be prophesied about and then sent Gabriel to tell John’s parents that they had been chosen to parent this child…instead of letting it just happen and them finding out later on…God chose to do it all in an amazing and awe inspiring way.

Let God amaze you today, beloved. He is amazing! He is awe–full ~ or should I say what He does and who He is makes my heart full of awe and wonder! Praise Him, thank Him, and enjoy this day!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 6

2009-12-06T09:37:00.002-05:00

December 6
Luke 1:11-17 (NKJV) Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”

This section of scripture shares God’s plan for John the Baptist’s life ~ he was to turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God; he was to go before Jesus in the spirit and power of Elijah; to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children; and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; and to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

The angel of the Lord essentially tells Zacharias that his son is the fulfillment of the prophecy in Malachi 4:5-6. It is amazing to me that not only was God granting Zacharias a son…He chose to tell him about it through an angel…and also that his son ~ would not be just any son ~ but would be a fulfillment of prophecy. If he wasn’t frightened by “seeing an angel”…how about “hearing” that he had to raise a child who is the fulfillment of a prophetic word that people had been waiting for ~ for over 400 years…now that might be frightening.

The prophecy was given 400 years before and the people of God were watching and waiting for the One who had been promised. To be Zacharias and to receive this announcement from the angel, it would become clear to him that the One promised is coming ~ The Messiah.

What do these truths spark in you? Do they spark thankfulness to God for His fulfilling of promises? Do they comfort you in that, just as He was faithful to send The Messiah all those years ago, He will be faithful in your life today?

Spend the remainder of your time in prayer ~ praise Him for who He is ~ thank Him for what He has done ~ thank Him for speaking to you through His Word ~ ask for any help you may need from Him. He loves you so much and He is faithful to you.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 5

2009-12-05T08:47:00.002-05:00

December 5
Yesterday we talked about preparing for Christmas and doing our best to not be stressed. Today I want to talk about a different kind of preparing. Check these scriptures out:

Revelation 21:4, 18-21, 23 (NIV) He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”, The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. 19The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass., The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.
John 14:1-3 (NKJV) “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

Look at these preparations which God Himself has made ~ He is so good to us! We can spend a lot of time trimming our trees and decking our halls, but the beauty they reveal when done are nothing in comparison to the beauty that awaits us in heaven.

We are blessed to see God’s creative handiwork all around us on a daily basis. Our world has been made very wonderfully. It is October as I am writing this and the colors outside are breathtaking. I love living in Pennsylvania and being able to enjoy this scenery year after year. Each year my appreciation of it grows ~ it deepens and I see new wonders in the same places. The other day a tree beckoned me to come and sit a spell. I could not because it was in a complete stranger’s yard, but it called nonetheless! Its leaves were billowy and bright. The yellow, orange and green mix was just so, that it appeared to be perfectly shady and brilliantly bright all at the same time. I will look for the splendor again next year.

I will deck my halls this Christmas, because I think it is beautiful. I will enjoy decorating year after year knowing that, when I am blessed to celebrate Christmas in heaven, it will be far worth the yearly hassle of tangled lights and the not–quite attainable perfection that we seek in our decorating.

Deck your halls, put up a beautiful display and, in so doing, remember what a beautiful display awaits you in heaven. That is reason to rejoice and celebrate…our names are written in heaven and it is our blessed destination ~ our homeland.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 4

2009-12-04T08:06:00.001-05:00

December 4
I started yesterday off with Merry Christmas! And, gee, I want to say it again, Merry Christmas! Today I wanted to talk about preparing for Christmas ~ after all, it is December 4th. There is so much to do and such little time in which to do it. Right!???!

I want you to think about your Christmas “To Do List” and consider it carefully. Why do you feel that you need to do all the things that you have on this list? Are they a family tradition, passed down many generations? Is it something that you enjoyed since your youth and you want your children to experience the same? Is it just how your mom always did it? Or mother in law? What motivates you to make “The List” and force yourself to do it?

Are you stressed out year after year trying to accomplish “The List”? Do this for me, please. Write out your list and at dinner talk with your husband about it and see whether this is really what you want your Christmas to look like. Is there any way of combining jobs? Can you get any friends to help you so it is not so overwhelming? Pray about this as well. God does not want you to be stressed out at Christmas ~ He wants you to be refreshed. Let Him direct your family into a refreshing Christmas Season. Stop trying to make it happen on your own. He does the refreshing. What can you do that isn’t a burden but is rather a blessing to your family?

This is a touchy subject for some people…you do not “mess” with their personal traditions and warm fuzzy memories. And that is not my intent…my intent is for us to do our best and not be stressed…however…if God is urging you to do something different, then obey Him because His ways are best!

Example: deck your halls (house) not stressfully, but joyfully. If you normally experience fighting and frustration during this part of the preparations…then this year pray first. If some members do not want to participate, could it be because they do not like the tension of the task? We put on Christmas movies and deck our halls…yes, we need to stop and pray “during” the task but that is “just going to happen” in a family of 6 sometimes! Let’s do our best to not be stressed!

Philippians 4:6,7 (NKJV) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Offer up to God a specific prayer about your “To Do List”. Seek Him for strength, wisdom, direction and peace ~ so that you and your family will have a Merry Refreshing Christmas and not a Frustrating Stressful Christmas. He loves you so much so let’s do our best to not be stressed!

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time is Here ~ Day 3

2009-12-03T06:31:00.002-05:00

December 3
Merry Christmas! I wish for your Christmas Season to be a joyful time ~ the whole season, not just December 25th.

Christmas Day is special to me…no doubt about it & we make it a big fun family day! My family celebrates Christmas Day just like we do any other family member’s birthday…but then again it is a whole lot different. When one member has a birthday, we tell them Happy Birthday in the morning ~ with a hug and a kiss. Then in the evening, we put out a few decorations (this varies by person), share an awesome meal together, give gifts to the birthday person and then share some sweet dessert & sing Happy Birthday.

On December 25th, we wake up in celebration mode. Jesus is a member of our family and we all get to celebrate Him and His birthday. We wait on the stairs and we talk about Jesus’ birthday to help the littlest ones remember why we celebrate Christmas. Next we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus, and pray. We then come down the stairs and share presents. When the opening of presents is over, we hug and thank one another and play for a while. Finally we share a fun special breakfast. When our bellies are full we get to play and inspect our gifts some more. Some time during all of this I have to sneak into the kitchen to make my dish for the big family dinner at Grandma’s house. In the afternoon, we go over to Grandma’s to see all of the family, where we spend time playing and chatting. We share a nice meal together and then there are gifts to open. We play and chat some more and then we share some dessert together. We end up leaving there really late at night ~ tired and blessed. We have so much fun Christmas Day. My children know it is Jesus’ Birthday. We are thankful that He has allowed us to celebrate it ~ in honor of Him and to show each other how much we love them because of the great love He has shown us.

Think about what Christmas means to you: why you do the things you do, and are you honoring Him in them. What does your Christmas day usually look like? What do you want Christmas day to look like this year? Spend some time in prayer ~ share with God your hopes and desires about this year and seek what He would have you do. I want to leave you with a few scriptures to ponder.

Proverbs 17:22 (NIV) A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. {NKJV – uses the phrase merry heart; AMP – uses happy heart}
Nehemiah 8:10 (AMP) Then [Ezra] told them, Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

PS ~ someone asked...when are you getting to the actual story of Christmas??? Well...it is coming...we are laying a foundation the first few days...because once we get into the story it is jam packed with scriptures...and we have to be able to receive it and soak it all in :o) Let the anticipation build...what am I going to learn...what is God going to personally speak to me about? What is the new thing that I will learn this year? Can I really learn something new...I heard this story hundreds of times? Are you hungry for God's Word?

I would love to know what you are thinking :o)

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 2

2009-12-02T13:00:00.004-05:00

December 2Psalm 119:25 (NKJV) My soul clings to the dust; revive me according to Your word.
Psalm 119:37 (NKJV) Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way.
Psalm 119:40 (NKJV) Behold, I long for Your precepts; revive me in Your righteousness.
Psalm 119:88 (NKJV) Revive me according to Your lovingkindness, So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.
Psalm 143:11 (NKJV) Revive me, O LORD, for Your name’s sake! For Your righteousness’ sake bring my soul out of trouble.
My prayer for you for this Christmas Season is that you have a time of blessing and revival ~ not just survival. So many of us have our plates full during the holidays with places to go, people to see and money to spend! There are many more of us who are dealing with a rough past year ~ a year when hopes and dreams were shattered ~ a year when a loved one passed on.
Life can be so busy, painful and lonely. I have had a few Christmas Seasons where I wanted to retreat under my blankets and not emerge till January 2nd! During those times I cried out those scriptures to the Lord daily…and let me tell you, sweet sistas…He was faithful each time to come to my rescue.
What does the word revival mean? I found many definitions from various resources (dictionaries and concordances) and here’s what I found ~ in my own words ~ to come back to life in your heart and mind from heartache, devastation, depression and wrong thinking ~ stop walking in death and walk in life.
Be with Him. Look for Him in your everyday life. Seek Him for help and wisdom for every day. Thank Him for His loving-kindness and faithfulness. He wants you brought back to life in Him. He is the way, the truth and the life.

Pray to our Daddy with me...Dear Father, I thank you so much that You love me. Please come to my aid this Christmas Season and revive me. Revive me, O God, according to Your word …revive me in Your way…revive me in Your righteousness…revive me according to Your loving-kindness…all for Your name’s sake. Help me to live like You and be glorified in my life, O God. Amen

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 1

2009-12-01T15:30:00.002-05:00

December 1
Can you believe it? Christmas time is really here! Are you excited? Are you looking forward to all the great times with family and friends? Are you excited to eat all the special holiday foods ~ foods your mom would never make in April or May? Are you excited to bring out all the decorations and deck your halls? Yippee…now is the time for special family traditions! Are you anticipating a season of joy? Is Christmas like a great vacation at home? A time to watch special, fun, and timeless movies with the family…ones I am only allowed to start watching Thanksgiving Day ~ anyone else with me on this one!!??!! Don’t you just love the hustle and bustle out in the streets and stores? People everywhere are a little nicer ~ a little more patient ~ a little more generous.

Are you thinking that anyone with this attitude might be off her rocker? Be honest.

Are you crazy and off your rocker too? Or are you waiting for all the holiday hustle and bustle to be over and done with already? Have you had quite a year and are now just waiting for a new one to start ~ hoping it will be better than this past year?

I am hoping that the time you spend in this BLOG ~ with a good cup of coffee & time in God’s Word and in His presence ~ will change your hearts and minds. Think about this scripture, girls ~ you can insert “daughter” for “son”. Remember the scriptures themselves are the words “to listen closely to”. And then below it is my prayer for each of you.

Proverbs 4:20-23 (NIV) My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

Father, I ask in Jesus’ name that You come and bless on these dear women. Help them to have an amazing Christmas ~ the whole season long. May this year be a time of fresh revelation of You and Your ways. I pray that Your love abounds in their hearts and they are changed to be more like You. I ask that you open the eyes of their understanding that they would see wondrous things from Your Word. I thank You that You love them and will for them a future and a hope. Be glorified in them in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay

That there is one smart 2 year old!

2009-11-13T13:51:00.004-05:00

Oh my stars!!!

I just had to share this with you all today. I am sitting at my desk working on the Christmas Lesson ~ Christmas Time Is Here. I let the children put on a movie while I work at my desk.

The 2 year old wanted to pick a movie which happens to be "Toy Story", but she calls it "BuzzWoody" ~ the other 2 do not want to watch it. So, knowing this, I send the 2 year old up to the movie closet to pick a movie. The DVD's of Toy Story 1, 2 were on top of the TV...and she did not see them. So I sent her upstairs thinking she would see a different movie and want to watch that instead.

She came down the steps singing, "I pick it! I pick it! I pick movwee!". So, I stepped away from my desk went into the living room to take the movie and bust out laughing...oh my stars!!!!

She brought down the VHS of "Toy Story"!!! She found it in the sea of movies and brought down exactly what she wanted to watch. The other 2 screamed, "oooo, no mom, no!".

I had to let her watch it...she just took my breath away with her persistence, accuracy and smarts!!!

They are now watching it under protest and tears. You would think that I had just poked them in the eye or something!

Oh, I guess I should tell you that the 2 year old picked this everyday for the past 2 weeks and she loves it more each day...they are sick of it. Yet, they do not remember that they did the same exact thing at that age...and sometimes still do!!

Just thought you might have needed a little laugh!!

Enjoy your day...Jesus loves you & so do I ~ Laurie Kay