was the one from childhood. You know it, “Count your blessings, count them one by one...” only I couldn’t remember the words, so I kept singing it and lo-and-behold, last month’s Faith On Every Corner had an article by Hannarich, (whom I will contact and thank!), of, you guessed it! Count your blessings, count them one by one. And you will discover just what God has done!” Blessing in the valley, number two, I had 9 hours of uninterrupted sleep the other night. Yes, it’s a big deal. And blessing number three... I was going through Mom’s files and discovered an older Christmas card. It was handmade and addressed to my paternal grandparents. It is exquisitely cut-out and crafted and it has three little stockings on the mantelpiece which read, “Johnny”, “Shirley” and “?” I stared at it for a moment and then gasped, “This is the Christmas card from the year I was born!” My sweet artistic mother had made it and then, 3 days later, delivered her first child in one hour and almost died. I will treasure this card and every little blessing I have along the way of this glorious adventure with my God, for we may walk through the valley of the shadow, but we do not travel alone. If you do not know our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I encourage you to “seek Him while He may yet be found” for the time grows short. From one adventurer to another, keep your eyes on Him! “And I will walk at liberty, for I seek Your precepts. I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed. And I will delight myself in Your commandments, which I love. My hands also I will lift up to your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on your statutes. (Psalm 119:45-48 NKJV)
He Has Plans For Us by Karen Ruhl
I love the beginning of a new year. To be honest, it is just another day and yet it holds so much hope. We have been taught that we can wipe the slate clean and begin a new year ahead. That is only partially true. You can wipe the slate clean and begin fresh, you can be born again into the family of Christ. But, there is a bit of work involved. In Jeremiah 29, verse 11 (NKJV), God is talking to the people of Babylon. He says, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” This has been used as a memory or life verse by many, yet there is so much more for us to learn in this chapter. This is the next thing he says, “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” Have you been seeking a relationship with Christ? Are you ready to say a simple prayer and become a member of Christ’s family? Then say this simple prayer now and then find a pastor or a Christian friend who will come beside you and help you learn more.
Dear God, I am a sinner. I need you in my life right now. I open my heart to you and welcome you in. Please forgive me for my sins and make me new. I will put behind my sinful ways and follow you, Lord God. I pray this and receive you in my heart today. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen The prayer is a simple prayer. We are all sinners. If you said this prayer and believe in what you said, welcome to the family of God. I urge you to find a church so you will be around others who will help you learn and grow. Also, find a family member or friend who will help you as you walk on this new path. Remember, God, Has Plans For You! Happy New You, Karen
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