DANCE OF FIRE

I wrote the content on this blog with sincere and holy intentions with the knowledge that I had at the time... We live, learn and amend...as errors are exposed and more truths are revealed...

Only GOD is perfect. It's vital that you seek the Lord to expose any errors that you've embraced. Please ask Him to expose any areas of darkness to you and for what is necessary to do to dispossess what's NOT of truth.

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POETRY: DANCE OF FIRE

Flames of fire dance joyfully as dreams of fervor conjure up images of red hot passion for the gusto of life.

Sizzle, spark, explode -

Fireballs light up the sky. Wow! a thunder flash with a clap -

The flames are vivid with the awesome glow of orange colors blended with yellow highlights that accent the blaze.

This display is the bomb torched with a rocket plan. Such rapture has lit our fire. We are dynamite on this journey.

Come on fire, fall on us. Pour your liquid potency. Ignite our souls that we may be engulfed with magnified intensity.

Blow up our hearts. Dance with us....

Sandra

Copyright 2010

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FAMILY FORT


Greetings -

This blog was created in about 2010.  Beginning in 2013, I met Pam Sheppard who has considerably helped to guide me into more truth...  Most of the content on this blog was done BEFORE I met Pam...  Plenty videos of Pam Sheppard are available on youtube.  She's also written books that can be purchased.  Here's the link www.lulu.com/spotlight/pam_s911 

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I wrote the content on this blog with sincere and holy intentions with the knowledge that I had at the time... We live, learn and amend...as errors are exposed and more truths are revealed...

Only GOD is perfect. It's vital that you seek the Lord to expose any errors that you've embraced. Please ask Him to expose any areas of darkness to you and for what is necessary to do to dispossess what's NOT of truth.

###


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DEATH OF TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS

How many of us are in continuance mode with relationships that are dead weight associations? I mean they add nothing to us but certainly subtract from our positive progressive journeys. The subject relationships could be relative to friends, acquaintances, and dating associations. I do NOT exclude from these descriptions some “Christian” connections which can also prove hazardous to godliness.

Our Lord does appoint us to minister to the dead and instructs us to be mindful that we were once dead ourselves. It is, however, crucial to be in tune with our Father to discern when to move on as the Spirit leads. My experience has been to linger too long where I should have cancelled some “subscriptions” to relationship “magazines.” Fool that I was, I remained in the “pages” well after the expiration dates. Hampered spirituality was the result when I continued engagements where I no longer had any business.

We can allow vice grips on our emotions that cause us to cling to toxic connections. Why do we cling? The reasons vary. Fear readily comes to mind. We can fear the absence of the entanglements. Granted, the entanglements are toxic but we foolishly desire them, regardless. Often, we are afraid to disengage. We have become accustomed to the presence. Inner battles rage.  We know better but are afraid to do better. What will it mean? What can replace them? Reluctance is stronger than logic.

There is hope. Undoubtedly, it can be difficult to trade in liabilities for assets. One reality is that assets are not always immediate after cancellation of liabilities. Hurt tends to be the immediate consequence. Separation anxiety is a definite result. Tough it out, though, because rainbows can be a certainty. It is absolutely a surety that we can rise above the pain. What is vital is a heart to work through it with awareness that it will hurt but conquer we shall.

Emotional warfare is an apt way to describe it. We must purpose to do it and allow nothing and no one to impede our journeys to wholeness. GOD can show us the paths of life. His question is, “Do you want to press on to gain it?”

Recently, someone gave me declarations that, in essence, amounted to rejection of me. Gratitude is felt for that rejection because I learned that inwardly I have come to a new place. What he said was beneficial for me to know. It may, to some people, seem odd for me to express gratitude for rejection. The truth that he spoke resulted in some measures of freedom for me. Something shifted within when I digested the content of his words. That shift has been instrumental in turning some things right side up. I am thankful.

Burial of dead relationships is essential to move forward. We cannot embrace freedom if we cling to death.  In the interest of balance, I cannot conclude here without inclusion of another aspect on the matter of toxic dead relationships. Evidence supports that there are instances that the dead can live again or live where there was no previous life. Once toxic does not necessarily mean always toxic. Remedies do exist to bring the dead to life.  Happily, toxic dead marriages have been revived, healed, and restored to blissful unity. Family estrangements have gained healing. Those are glowing reports.

My experiences have also proved that it is possible to have peace in the presence of storms. Dissension has surrounded me where I had to reside, that is, relationships severed but I had to, for seasons, remain in the same physical places. I learned to go and glow in spite of it. That meant that heart disconnection happened before physical disconnection occurred. Immediate physical relief is not always attainable. What can be attained, though, is a heart set to reject attempts to discourage joyous progression. Peace can be resident in the midst of toxic dramas. Determine to sing in the rain. Escape before you leave. Leave intact. Victories are choices that begin in our hearts.

Wisely consider relationship choices. Ponder and select what is reasonable, safe and responsible. Chances are some relationships can be “saved” while others should be categorized as permanent deaths. Let’s face it – all cannot be salvaged. The better we discern and understand the differences, the more liberated we shall be as whole beings on this great planet earth.

Sandra
P.O. Box 1210
Washington, DC 20013

Written Friday August 6, 2010
Revised Sunday September 26, 2010
© Copyright 2010


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MAN WAS MY GOD

Truly, God knows how to deliver in full. He can deliver in such a way that our complete desire for a former sinful indulgence no longer has appeal. We can become so completely in love with God, that habitual sin doesn't grip us as before. Yes, we'll still sin because we're in the flesh. But God can deliver us from strong holds. He does deliverance as He deems fit. Sometimes it is a prolonged process – other times it's not. It's His prerogative as to the how, and all which that involves.

To have the intimate presence of a man in my life was once my god. My belief was that I needed a man to validate my value, and worth as a woman. My low self esteem ensnared me into the position of making a god out of man. Oh, for sure, there were some “pleasurable” moments - that was part of the deception. The devil cannot “rule” if he supplies all that is “bad.” He furnishes some “pleasures” in his mission to keep us estranged from God. He is cunning, conniving and highly intelligent. He should not be underestimated. His aim is to deceive us all the way to hell.

God has the most high-powered agenda. Our Lord is fully aware of every action, misdeed, and intent of the devil. God knows what the devil is going to do before the devil knows it. The devil is mighty but he knows far, far less than our Almighty Father God. The knowledge and wisdom of God trumps every bit of might that the devil possesses.

So while I was out there with man as my god, the only Wise God was observing all of my stupidity, and foolishness. Satan was celebrating while God was grieving about my unrighteous choices. God brought the devil’s celebration to a halt. God allowed circumstances which brought me to my knees in tears, and true repentance. Hallelujah, I was back under the dominion of the King of saints!

Thanks be unto God for His love, mercy and forgiveness. It was made unmistakably clear to me through much heartache, and pain that I was in love with the wrong god. Man was an imitation of life – God is the real deal! Jesus Christ is the True Vine who shed His red, pure precious blood for us.  My existence with the god-man was a lie, a scheme concocted by Satan to remove me from the God who is greater than all - the only God who is worthy to be my FIRST LOVE. If we deviate from that crucial path, we are in position to be destroyed by the devil.

When we align ourselves with the enemy of our souls, and his evil forces, we reap what we sow. God will not force us to choose life – which can only be attained through devotion to God. If we elect death - which is allegiance to the devil – we reap separation from God/Jesus/Holy Spirit, and have an existence without peace - that only God can provide. The word of God says, “There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.” (Isaiah 57: 21)

God in His loving kindness proved to me that only He is able to give me, through Jesus Christ, His beloved Son, the utmost love, joy, and fulfillment that I craved.  He more than satisfies me with His love, care, and concern. I am fully convinced that God knows best. God may decide to send me a man. My desire is that God’s perfect will be done. Whatever He decides – I'm grounded in the truth that God alone is my God.

I sought to fill the void in my heart with the superficial injection of a temporal fix. The Lord filled that void with the eternal fix of the confidence that only the true and living God can provide absolute certainty of who we are, and the precious value that He places on our lives. My self esteem is invested in righteousness. Now, I truly know whose I am, and that allows me to know who I am - in the Lord. My validation comes from God - the Most High!!!

While I still have much to learn, I am thrilled beyond compare that God abides in me, and I in Him. Words are inadequate to explain the elation experienced by souls that are anchored in God - walking in the Light of the World, King Jesus.

Though transformation is a process… deliverance is oh so liberating!

Sandra 
Written September 18, 2008
Copyright 2008

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RESCUE FOR PARENTS

Please agree with me in prayer for overwhelmed parents.

Ephesians 6:1, 2

Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;

Ephesians 6:4

…provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Prayer:

Our dear Father GOD, You are amazing and nothing is too hard for You. Please, Lord, in the name of Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, minister to and help overwhelmed parents. Some of them are so stressed, burdened and at their wits end. Send people to love on them, Lord, and to help them to cope. Give them the answers, resources and provisions that they need - most especially the need for You as First Love in their lives. They need the awareness that peace can only be attained when You are their GOD, guide, and refuge with JESUS as their Savior and Lord.

Change their hearts, Lord, and pull them out of the fire and rescue them from lives of deception, anger and fear. Teach them to seek You, believe You, trust You and to cleave to You. Show them Your ways in how to parent their children. Show them that love is vital in communications, in discipline, in providing, and in teaching. Instruct them that youth learn best by observations of love, compassion, integrity, honesty, and credibility. Often adults demand respect from youth but fail to give it to them. Respect should be given and received. The words "please," "thank you," and "excuse me" have important meanings and should be used in communications. Those words are ingredients in the vital areas of respect. Let sharing and caring be on regular display. And most of all, Lord, please teach parents to show their children how to love and how to regularly reverence You through Your Holy Bible, prayer, praise, worship and regular attendance in Your houses of worship.

Thank you, Lord - Amen.

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MARRIED TO UNBELIEVERS

Does anyone recall hearing much preaching/teaching about true worshippers of GOD who are married to those who do NOT serve the most High GOD and Lord Jesus CHRIST? Some months ago, one of my friends told me that her pastor preached a sermon called, “What to Do When You are Married to a Fool.” It pleased me to know that her pastor preached about the matter. My desire is that there be an increase in such preaching/teaching.

I am not presently married (ex-husband deceased) but my heart goes out to those who are married to unbelievers. That was my experience when I was a babe in Christ. It was lonely in the marriage because we were not spiritually connected. There was also a lot of pain because of hurt feelings and such.

Of course, our choices for Christ are always worth whatever we must undergo but I would like to hear more preaching/teaching for those who have to live with unbelievers. Truly, they need much help through coping with who they must live with day to day. Yes, we all have trials and tribulations but that dynamic is particularly challenging – that is my opinion.

Please help me with your comments on this.

Thank you

Sandra
Written Sunday August 8, 2010 

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MOTHER'S OWN

I believe that a major reason that the ideal family nucleus has declined is because, due to various conditions, women allow others to raise their children. It is understandable that single mothers need to work because so many fathers have largely abandoned their familial and parental duties, which includes financial provisions.This article, though, is to ask and answer the question, “Is it GOD’s ideal for married women with children to work outside the home?” I believe not.

God designed the family structure for men to be loving husbands and fathers who provide for the family finances while the loving wives and mothers handle the bulk of the household duties. I do not support, when it is not necessary, that our Lord is pleased with latch-key youth, and youth who are sent to day care while their mothers work outside the home.

In scripture, I do not recollect any passages that encourage mothers to relinquish their child care responsibilities to others. For a period during my youth, my mom did not work outside the home. I am 54 years old and am still deeply moved by the memory of my mom coming to my elementary school class on a snowy day to bring me soup. My mom was the only mother to come to the class with such a love motion. Even now as I write about it, tears well up in my eyes.

So many kids misbehave because they are hurt, angry, and afraid. They are afraid of life, and its varied challenges. So often, they lack enough quality time with their parents. Many of them do not feel sufficiently loved and valued. Frequently, youth are not adequately disciplined. The best parenting cannot be done on the fly in rushed and harried states of mind. Mothers who work outside the home can be so preoccupied that they cannot ideally tend to the manifold needs of their children. In our present society, the stress levels of youth are off the charts. Unfortunately, they fend for themselves too often.

We live in a societal environment now where it is vital that mothers rethink their choices to work outside of the home. Of course, for some mothers to quit jobs is not an option. But there are large numbers of mothers who can quit their jobs to sacrifice for the well being of their children, and the overall health of the home atmosphere.

Recently, I heard a Christian wife and mother testify that the Lord told her to quit her job to become a full time wife and mother. She was not at all eager to do so. It would mean the loss of more than 50% of the household income. The Lord impressed upon her the urgency of His request. She obeyed. One thing led to another. Her husband expressed that he did not believe that they could remain in their present home with the reduction in income. He told her that he would give her four months to prove that they could remain. If she could not prove it by then they would move. Well, she did what was necessary…proved it, and they remained. It was critical to the Lord that she stay home with her child. She and her husband made the financial sacrifices to get it done. Praise the Lord!

Children develop, and flourish best when they are parented full time by loving and righteous mothers – their own mothers, and their own loving and righteous fathers who provide financially, and contribute in other essential ways. That is the ideal of GOD – our Divine Creator.

Of course, the ideal is not always possible, our Lord can certainly compensate for what is not possible. He knows who the mothers are who cannot reasonably be at home, and who the mothers are who can.

Note: Family circumstances caused by neglect, abuse, divorce, remarriages, abandonment and other actions bring another dynamic to the mix. This article is not about that component.

Sandra
Written November 16, 2009
Revised June 23, 2010
© Copyright 2009/2010




19 comments:

  1. TOPIC "DEATH OF TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS."

    I TRANSFERRED THE COMMENTS BELOW FROM THE ORIGINAL POST AREA OF THIS TOPIC:


    MTJ said...

    Hi Sandra,

    Thanks for sharing a post with a topic not often discussed openly. I think the attitudes men and women have regarding Toxic Relationships are as different as the sun's distance from the moon. I don't believe we (men) consider the damaging consequences of a toxic relationship. I believe men often recognize this kind of relationship prior to entering it, but a lust for sex is the objective; not a permanent meaningful relationship. If a toxic relationship isn't sexually motivated, then it may be motivated by abusive behavior.

    In both instances, the man has no real consideration or respect for the woman (or himself) in the relationship. He is simply acting out his selfish impulses which he is driven to satisfy. This is a man who has no clear understanding of himself, his emotions and his behavior.

    There may be other reasons for Toxic Relationships but from a male perspective, I believe these are the two primary reasons; because of this, Toxic Relationships are doomed and dead from the beginning. In both instances, the absence of being spiritually healthy is what propels a man into a downward spiral of meaningless relationships.

    Some men will resort to pornography, one-night stands, recurring hookup or prostitutes as a passive means of feeding this drive within them. The truth is that like a junkie, this compulsive need can never be satisfied. It takes actual surrender to the Lord for one to see real flaws in our life.

    Although I believe the reasons differ between men and women, the results are the same; a dead and Toxic Relationship.

    I pray that anyone who is involved in a Toxic Relationship will seriously consider the wisdom you've shared in this post and honestly seek guidance from the Lord by submitting their life to Christ.

    Blessings and peace.

    MTJ

    September 25, 2010 9:02 AM

    lioneagle said...

    Hi MTJ -

    Thank you...

    You made some valid and helpful points, in particular, from the male perspective that I had never considered.

    When I wrote this piece, it dealt not mainly with the male/female dynamic but relative to people, including other Christians, that the Lord led me to no longer deal with. For instance, there are people who can contaminate us with sinful conduct that they choose to continue. We can minister, pray for, lead them to scriptures, and they choose to "spin wheels." By that I mean, they have the info., scriptures, Words from the Lord, etc. but decide to ignore... And my experience was with one professing Christian in particular, that she rarely exhibited joy, she complained a lot about why the Lord had not given her a husband....This went on for about two years.

    Indeed, I found value in our communications...but after ministering to her for two years about loving the Lord more than her desire for a husband...one day, the Lord told me to love her but to discontinue relationship with her because she was set on her desire for a husband. Her lack of joyous demonstration in our Lord began to affect my spirit and it was time for me to move on from her because she refused to change. Maybe one day, she will....I love her and pray that she will come to love GOD more than anything or anyone....

    May GOD help us all....

    September 25, 2010 9:39 AM

    Tim R. Temple said...

    There was a bunch of bad years where the only thing that saved our marriage was "God hates divorce..." (Malachi 2:16) I was put through hell during that time.

    Finally my wife gave up trying and resigned herself to marriage. Whew! It took over a decade after that for her to find out that I have Aspergers and I hadn't been trying to jerk her around.

    We are gradually growing into a good relationship and out of all the sick behaviors.

    September 25, 2010 4:28 PM

    ReplyDelete
  2. TOPIC "MARRIED TO UNBELIEVERS"

    I TRANSFERRED THE COMMENTS BELOW FROM THE ORIGINAL POST AREA OF THIS TOPIC:

    Tim R. Temple said...

    Marrying an unbeliever is definitely becoming unequally yoked to them. Don't think you can convert them later; that's too improbable to bet your life on.

    When we marry someone we are also bringing their parents in as well. After the honeymoon is over, we tend to imitate one of our parents and he or she will tend to imitate one of their parents.

    Spiritual cleanup of the fiance, their families, friends, properties and environments is an easy but necessary step.

    August 10, 2010 10:35 PM

    lioneagle said...

    Thank you, Timothy...

    What are your views if you marry and you are both heathens? Later one gets saved....and the other is no where near inclined...perhaps for years or may never accept our Lord....

    My belief is that more should be preached/teached on that dynamic as it has particular challenges....

    August 10, 2010 10:55 PM

    lioneagle said...

    By the way, Timothy, that was interesting and to be pondered what you stated about bringing the parents in and after the honeymoon, etc. I had never thought about that in the way that you expressed. Hmmm... Indeed that is important to consider and weigh. Thank you for that gem!

    August 10, 2010 10:58 PM

    Anonymous said...

    Good point from Timothy- when you marry someone you marry into a family, and the point about us becoming our parents is so right - I have been married 22 years and I see both of his parents in his actions and words, and I see both of my parents in me. That's a scary thought!

    1 Corinthians 7:12-15:
    If any brother has a wife who is not a believer and she is willing to live with him, he must not divorce her. 13 And if a woman has a husband who is not a believer and he is willing to live with her, she must not divorce him. 14 For the unbelieving husband has been sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife has been sanctified through her believing husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy. 15 But if the unbeliever leaves, let him do so. A believing man or woman is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace. 16 How do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or, how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife? 17 Nevertheless, each one should retain the place in life that the LORD assigned to him and to which God has called him. This is the rule I lay down in all the churches."

    This passage seems to give permission for marital separation, perhaps divorce, if the unbeliever so chooses. I don't know if it means that remarriage is allowed in this case. I do strongly believe in second, third, and four hundredth chances; and I am sure that divorce and remarriage is not an unpardonable sin. It has been said that many churches would be more welcoming of someone who killed his/her spouse than of someone divorced and remarried.

    Of course, we should never allow ourselves the attitude of 'sin now, pray later.' We need to teach our children not to even date an unbeliever, because once an emotional (or sexual) bond is formed, they will either break up 9which will be painful) or enter into marriage or cohabitation with the unbeliever (which will likely be more painful). Either way, dating a nonbeliever is leaving God's perfect will for our lives. We know that God also has permissive will for our lives, and that He can bring good from any circumstances, but it is better to stick with making good choices the first time.

    August 10, 2010 11:55 PM

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  3. TOPIC "MARRIED TO AN UNBELIEVER"

    I TRANSFERRED THE COMMENTS BELOW FROM THE ORIGINAL POST AREA OF THIS TOPIC:

    Greetings -

    I am grateful for the comments about "MARRIED TO THOSE WHO DO NOT SERVE GOD/JESUS."

    I know about the scriptures cited in the comments here. But what I am more concerned about is how those cope day to day living with someone who is in league with the Devil. For instance, I know of someone who had that situation. She told me that she was often torn about where to strike the balance. By that I mean the fine line between when to submit to her husband relative to his desires as a non Christian and her loyalty to CHRIST.

    Of course, I know that it is clearly wrong to do anything illegal or scripturally unsound if instructed by the unsaved. But what about those areas that are not so blatant? What if the unsaved spouse wants the Christian to go to a party that caters to alcohol consumption? What if the unsaved husband forbids his wife to go to church or limits her church attendance? What if he forbids her to give to the church? Do you follow where I am going with this? I may not be explaining it well....

    I also heard pastors speak about Christian women
    who are too much at church and involved in Christian tasks - with the result being the neglect of their unsaved spouses.

    Yes, the Christian spouse needs to seek the Lord, pray and have our Lord as FIRST.

    When I was married, before accepting Christ, we were both heathens. It was difficult as a babe in Christ to deal with the loneliness and hurt of being married to a non Christian. I went to pastoral counseling and he told me to leave my husband. I was a babe in Christ, but praise our Lord that I knew that that was NOT what the Lord desired for me. I remember wishing that there was more church support for those in my position. I continue to believe that more needs to be taught about the subject matter. Support for such is not sufficient, in my opionion.

    Please weigh in on this. Thank you

    August 11, 2010 8:44 AM

    lioneagle said...

    Hi folks -

    I need more help on this one, please. Note my latest comments above.

    Thank you

    August 11, 2010 1:25 PM

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  4. TOPIC "MARRIED TO UNBELIEVERS"

    I TRANSFERRED THE COMMENTS BELOW FROM THE ORIGINAL POST AREA OF THIS TOPIC:

    Julie Reynolds said...

    I would have to agree with you that Support is not sufficient. My husband isn't non Christian, but I don't see Christ in him like I did when we were first married. At this point, I've decided that if I'm to grow spiritually I'm going to have to do it without him, and I feel further, and further away from him every day.

    I had a friend ask me the other day how do you cope. I told her that I have to rely heavier on the Lord for what I need, emotionally, and spiritually. I have a story that I wrote that I would like to contribute to this. I hope that's ok...

    The Woman Who Starved Herself...

    This is the story of a woman who starved herself spiritually, because she stopped gathering her own manna.

    I wont give her a name, I will just call her woman.

    Woman was pretty strong in her faith. She read the Bible every day, and prayed throughout every day. She became pretty good at gathering her portion of manna for each day. She was even known to start humming a Christian tune or two when she was working. One day, Woman met someone I will call Man. She fell in love with him, as he did with her.

    A year later they found themselves walking down the isle to get married. Up until this point she was very good at gathering her own manna every day. She never missed a day. When Woman and Man got married, she decided to let Man gather her manna for her. The only problem was, Man didn't know that she was doing this. He gathered enough for himself, and she decided that they could split what he gathered. Things were ok for a while, but they were soon to change.

    Woman got pregnant with Son 1. She was happy until Son 1 was born and found out that Man wasn't going to gather any manna for them anymore. So Woman wondered what to do. Woman decided to do nothing. She thought, "well, if man isn't going to gather manna anymore then I guess I will just make due with what I have, and stretch it to last me for a while." This worked for a while

    Woman got pregnant with Son 2. Now there were 4 mouths to feed, and the manna was running out. She found out that Son 2 had some developmental problems that she couldn't fix, which just made things worse. What was she going to do.
    Woman started to take what little she had and give it to her children. She soon became very depressed. Now she had nothing, and there was nothing left to give to her children. Woman lost all hope of regaining what she once had. Woman was desperate.

    One day Woman met Friend. Now Friend was a Christian woman who knew what Woman's problem was and exactly how to fix it. Friend told Woman to go out and start gathering her own manna. That is how it's done. Woman is now on her way back out of spiritual starvation, and she would warn anyone who asks. Never stop gathering your own manna. God didn't intend for you to get your spiritual food through someone elses labor.

    Woman in this story is me. I depended upon my husband for my spiritual growth. When he stopped growing spiritually, and I saw that he was becoming starved, I didn't know what to do. I became spiritually starved myself. Friend in this story would by my good friend Susie. Thank you Susie for letting God speak through you so that I could see the importance of gathering my own manna, so to speak. I would equate manna to spending time with God in prayer, Bible Study, and praise. I am now on my way back from 16 years of spiritual starvation, and I am truly thankful. God is truly Good...!

    August 11, 2010 2:00 PM

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  5. TOPIC "MARRIED TO UNBELIEVERS."

    I TRANSFERRED THE COMMENTS BELOW FROM THE ORIGINAL POST AREA OF THEST TOPICS:

    Anonymous said...

    I hear you Julie - I felt like a dried up little leaf about to be blown away. Have now been plugged in to a smaller, intimate Body of believers 32 miles from our home and it is worth the drive, each and every mile. I have to grow or die. My hubby hasn't been to church regularly in 5 years since we moved here. I am sorry for him but no longer staying home. Marijo

    August 11, 2010 2:07 PM

    Tim R. Temple said...

    That small house church is crucial. The house church's focus is the kingdom of God. The nuclear family can be inadequate to be the fellowship, since its primary focus is on multiplication. I've seen Christians gamble on the nuclear family being able to do both. I've seen them burn out a couple of years later.

    The more old nature that hasn't been dealt with the more the house church is required. However, the community can mask the lack of a heart for Jesus. That becomes very evident when the family moves out on its own.

    In the diaspora from Jerusalem in the 30's A.D. they moved out as house church groups, not nuclear families.

    When things go bad in America, we will move in with each other and become house church groups. The nuclear families won't have the social support to stay separate.

    August 11, 2010 2:38 PM

    lioneagle said...

    Dear Julie and Marijo -

    I salute you both for choosing GOD over man.
    What a wonderful testimony of the love of our Lord. He is so worth all that we must endure and sacrifice.

    Julie: I was profoundly moved by your story. My heart moved with understanding as I too lived with an unsaved spouse.

    Prayer: Almighty Father, embrace and envelop your precious children who live with the challenges of unsaved or less-than-enthusiastic about you spouses.

    Father, we need Your help in reaching out to those who have those living conditions. Strengthen, dear Lord, console, comfort, and O blessed Lord, minister with Your guiding grace to those who ache. Let Your love flow to dry tears, calm fears and dissolve doubts. Magnify Your awesomeness and allow it to penetrate in areas that only belong to You.

    Precious Father that You are, let joy pour from our bellies as rivers of living waters, and saturate us in Your bountiful goodness. Immerse us in Your blessed assurances.

    Please prove to those who doubt You that, indeed, You act gloriously on behalf of Your faithful fervent vessels of honor.

    Let us become change agents, Father, because You are the great I AM. We shall decree, "I AM SENT US!"

    John 7:38 - "...out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water."

    Isaiah 62:3 - "Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God."

    August 11, 2010 2:52 PM

    ReplyDelete
  6. TOPIC "MARRIED TO UNBELIEVERS"

    I TRANSFERRED THE COMMENTS BELOW FROM THE ORIGINAL POST AREA OF THIS TOPIC:

    lioneagle said...
    Hi Timothy -

    I found your comments here quite compelling. Definitely something to seriously consider. Thank you.....

    Pardon me for being "slow" but please tell me how your latest comment here relates to the topic "MARRIED TO THOSE WHO DO NOT SERVE GOD/JESUS."

    Thank you

    August 11, 2010 2:59 PM

    Tim Temple said...

    You can start with a spouse who is walking as a Christian, but not dedicated to walk with Jesus. Time away from strong fellowship causes the spouse to fade, fade, fade as a Christian. That's a burden I have with my wife. If fellowship doesn't pump them up they deflate.

    We went to a church that was struggling with worldliness because it's as much godliness as she was comfortable with. The church is coming around through much prayer, deliverance and blessing. She is following suit. That's the hard way to do it, but it's working.

    August 11, 2010 3:23 PM

    Julie Reynolds said...

    Thank you everyone for your encouraging comments, and the prayer brought tears to my eyes, thank you. I followed my husband down the path of luke warmness for way too long, and I am very glad that God sent me a friend that showed me what He wanted for me. I can no longer take the same path as my husband. I hope that he follows me at some point down the straight and narrow, and spiritual growth and wholeness in Him...

    August 11, 2010 6:02 PM

    Anonymous said...

    Julie - I told the Lord a year or so ago that I was not my hubby's "mommy" nor did I want to be and that I was giving him to His Father God and hoped they'd get this all worked out - so far I have left him there in God's hands (this time).

    Marijo

    August 11, 2010 9:46 PM

    Julie Reynolds said...

    Marijo,

    That's pretty much what we need to do. When we get ourselves out of the way, God can do his work. At this point, I pray for my husband, and when I feel the Spirits leading, I share with him what God is doing in my life.

    August 11, 2010 10:08 PM

    lioneagle said...
    Today I spoke to a woman who loves and serves GOD/JESUS, though, not fervently. Her husband will tell you that he is a Christian. His godly fruits are largely non-existent.

    She made an interesting comment to me when I told her of the desire for more support outreach for spouses who live with those who do not love and serve GOD/JESUS. She agreed about the lack of support. She mentioned that churches have Single's groups, Youth groups, Men's groups...but no groups for people who are married to those who do not love and serve GOD/JESUS. She stated that she is NOT single but she does NOT feel married.

    My heart went out to her.

    Lord, please help people in these lonely painful positions and lead them to do what they can for themselves with Your love, wisdom, guidance and power. Show them, please, how to "go and glow" in Your name so that others will be led Your way, Father, to seek You and the freedom, peace and joy that results from full loyalty to You.

    Thank you, Lord.

    August 14, 2010 2:07 PM

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  7. TOPIC "MARRIED TO UNBELIEVERS"

    I TRANSFERRED THE COMMENTS BELOW FROM THE ORIGINAL POST AREA OF THIS TOPICS:

    lioneagle said...

    Greetings -

    This was posted on this blog under two topics as it pertains in some ways to both. It is also found under the topic "GUEST PIECE REPEAT POST."

    I posted the prayer shown below yesterday - Friday August 13th at 10:59 p.m. and ALREADY AN ANSWER FROM OUR LORD HAS COME. Hallelujah!

    This morning, on The Word Network, I watched Pastor Henry Babers do a sermon "play illustration" about a wife who loves and serves GOD/JESUS. Pastor Babers had some of his church members as "actors." He had the props on stage -sofa, table,...

    The wife and kids went to church and the husband stayed home. It had a happy ending.
    It was such a joy to watch, especially after having just posted the prayer last night!

    I will probably do a separate post to tell more about the sermon illustration.

    HERE IS THE PRAYER THAT THE LORD HAD ME TO POST LAST NIGHT:

    Father, we ask that You do what You deem necessary to pull down strongholds in those who are called by Your name. Your Word states in 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways: then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin,..."

    Lord, please teach spiritual leaders what is necessary to guide men into lives of pure hearts and clean hands. We all need such help but in particular, I beseech You, Lord, to work within men so that they can be fully Yours in spirit and in truth.

    Father, there is an abundance of men who are outside of Your will. You know how to draw them, Holy Father. Please teach your faithful servants how to plant and to water so that You will provide the increase that will have root in the men who have long chosen the weak over the mighty.

    August 14, 2010 4:49 PM

    lioneagle said...

    This comment is also found on this blog under topic, "GUEST PIECE REPEAT POST."

    Julie says -

    This is an email I sent directly to Sandra, and I thought I would share it here, as it pertains to the topic...

    Hi Sandra,

    I did go back and read it. I'm just not too sure what I can add to what has already been said. I've felt alone at church for years, because my husband has either hidden in the nursery for the whole of Sunday morning, or he sits way back in the back of the balcony. Even when I sat in the balcony I didn't sit with him, because I couldn't see anything sitting there. I know that seems like I'm not in submission to my husband, because I refuse to sit with him where he is, but I just can't do it.

    For a while I was toying with the idea of switching churches. The worship wasn't doing anything for me, and I was disillusioned because yet another pastor was leaving us. I prayed about it, and this is what the Lord told me. I was to stop sitting up in the balcony where I'm hidden from everyone, and everyone was pretty much hidden from me. I was to stop worrying about what was going on with everyone else, and I was to sing my praise to Him, and worship Him. If I felt the Spirit move in me, I was not to hide it, but to raise my hands in worship, and let it show etc... I've done this for the last two Sundays, and I no longer have that pull to look for another church. I think that God has me at this church for a reason, so this is where I am. Worship is what you make it.

    August 14, 2010 4:53 PM

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  8. TOPIC "MOTHER'S OWN"

    I TRANSFERRED THE COMMENT BELOW FROM THE ORIGINAL POST AREA OF THIS TOPIC:

    MTJ said...

    Hi Sandra,

    The world system we live in is driven by a philosophy of those who seek to get. This is in direct opposition of God's principle of giving. Men, women, husbands, wives, fathers and mothers who are caught up in this system see no inherent problems because they are seeking that which fulfills their own happiness. Perhaps some may even think they are creating a better life for their child (-ren).

    As you say, it's not always possible; other factors may be involved that impact that dynamic of a two-parent household. Some may argue that there is no guarantee that having a SAHM is better for children, but one cannot discount the positive and lasting effect a child feels when they've experienced the love, nurturing and maturation which was influenced by a parent who chose them by staying home over a career.

    Blessings and peace.

    MTJ

    October 6, 2010 7:41 PM

    lioneagle said...

    Hi MTJ -

    You are so right about the world system and the focus for many.

    The last sentence in your second paragraph speaks volumes and it is, no doubt, truth....

    Thank you for sharing those important words of wisdom...

    October 6, 2010 8:42 PM

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  9. TOPIC "MOTHER'S OWN"

    I TRANSFERRED THE COMMENTS BELOW FROM THE ORIGINAL POST AREA OF THIS TOPIC:

    Julie Reynolds said...

    Hi,

    I decided even before I met, and married my husband, that I was going to be a stay at home mother. I didn't want a day care raising my children for me. That was the way I saw it. I do understand that there are mothers who have to work. When my oldest son was born, I stopped working, and have only worked for a short period of time during the 17 years that, I've been a mother. I have to say that my children did benefit from my being home during the times when they also were home. I did volunteer at their school when they were in elementary school, and I did work for the school system for a while also. The reason I worked for the school system is because I wanted to be home when my children were home, and that made it so that I was there to help with homework, and other things that my children might need help with.

    One thing I might interject is that when I was at home with my children, I didn't get much in the way of interaction with other adults, which wasn't good for me. If you are going to be a stay at home mother, make sure that you are able to have that regular as possible adult interaction.

    My mother started working when I was 10, and while it was something that was good for her, I think that I suffered. Not having my mother at home when I got home from school was a scary thing for me. I was a latch key child, and I hated every minute of it. I hated the idea of coming home to an empty house, or being home alone with my brother and sister, who always were doing things to try and scare me. It wasn't hard for them, because I was scared of just about everything.

    I know that what I said comes more from an emotional stand point, and not a scriptural one, but I wish that more mothers could/would stay home with their children, especially while they are young.

    October 6, 2010 10:36 PM

    lioneagle said...

    Hi Julie -

    Thank you for so vividly expressing the benefits of stay-at-home moms. It blesses my soul that that was/is your choice.

    Also, it is interesting relative to what you mentioned about the need for interaction with other adults. I did not think of that.

    I agree that what you expressed comes from an emotional standpoint. The Lord gave us emotions to use in ways to bring Him glory. Certainly, raising children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord is replete with emotional feelings. Also, I believe that it does the souls good to have at least one parent home with children. With the guidance of GOD and obedience to Him, it is a win win situation.

    As for those who are unable to stay at home, of course, our Lord knows...and makes provisions accordingly.

    I do believe that those who must work should be attentive to the needs of their children and not be too busy to spend quality time with them. A pastor yesterday spoke about "outsourcing" children. Some parents, he said, "outsource" their children to schools, churches, etc. to raise them. Also, some use TV/media as a baby sitter.

    Some parents, when they are home, do not lovingly and effectively engage their children. When I was young the entire family regularly ate dinner together, and though not as often, breakfast, as well. Now frequently, the kids are in places in the houses/apts. and the parents in another. Quality family time is vital for healthy content lives - with GOD as First Love, of course!

    October 7, 2010 9:23 AM

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  10. TOPIC "PASTORS WIVES"

    I TRANSFERRD THE COMMENTS BELOW FROM THE ORIGINAL POST AREA OF THIS TOPIC:


    Julie Reynolds said...

    I would say that pastors wives, and families need our prayers just as much as pastors. Their families can come under attack just as much as other people that we pray for, especially if they are preaching according to the Word...

    September 18, 2010 1:34 PM

    Prayz Him Today said...

    I've often wondered who holds up the ones who hold us up. It's never too late to begin, right?

    September 18, 2010 1:51 PM

    lioneagle said...

    Yes, Prayz Him Today: Welcome to you, sister in Christ!

    Ever since, those years ago when I heard that pastor's wife ask, "Who is praying for me?" I have had particular sensitivity to the wives of pastors. I understand that we all have issues...but I am particularly sensitive as the Lord leads. Indeed He led me on the issue of pastors wives.

    Prayer:

    Father, in the name of Jesus, it is truth that you love us all. My prayer now, though, is that you send more people to minister to the wives of pastors. Please send more people to love on them and Lord let their husbands be mindful that their wives are royal diadems and crowns of glory(Isaiah 62). Envelop Your first lady daughters, please, in Your warm embrace and tenderly remind them that they are not forgotten by You - ever. Reward them privately and publicly for their faithful services to You,their families, friends, and those whom their husbands shepherd. Thank you, Lord,- Amen

    September 18, 2010 3:29 PM

    lioneagle said...

    Greetings -

    This came to me via e-mail from Karen:

    Derek & Karen Gross to me
    show details 10:00 PM (42 minutes ago)

    Ruth Graham was asked if she ever considered the idea of divorce. She reportedly answered that she had never considered divorce, but the thought of murder had crossed her mind.

    I think that expectations are changing, but traditionally the pastor's wife was expected to teach Sunday School, type the bulletin, and play the piano. These days, most pastor's wives that I know are working, because a pastor's salary just doesn't pay the bills.

    September 18, 2010 10:44 PM

    lioneagle said...

    This was sent to me via e-mail from Pastor G:

    9:35 AM (1 hour ago)

    Amen..pray for pastor’s husbands too..they also have challenges that are unique and most often overlooked.

    September 20, 2010 11:16 AM

    Transparent Tulip said...
    yes thank you for this reminder for praying for my pastor's wife too.

    September 20, 2010 3:09 PM

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  11. Sandra, the top piece about toxic relationships was "dead on" pun intended. We must always beware of those and how they permeate our spiritual relationship with Almighty God. Also, how they drag us down and keep us from exercising our spiritual muscles! Thank you for this reminder. Well done!
    Gina

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  12. Sandra, it is difficult to know which topic the comments are attached to, is it possible for you to connect the two in your design area? That way, it will be your posts and then the comments so the flow is easier to read...

    About being married to unbelievers... I so agree with you. There is a lot of preaching about it now but when I was a teen ager, it was hardly mentioned. Nor, were there any guidelines on how to actually TELL if a person were saved or not. I don't know if my husband was saved when we got married or not. He certainly never acted like it. Only now years later does he act like a believer. However, we are not given a blueprint of life so we never know exactly how all the puzzle pieces go together, do we? Thank goodness God is in control!

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  13. Hi Gina -

    Ref: Your first paragraph, I did what you mentioned before I came here to read your comment. Interesting how the Lord led me to do that and then to come here to read that you suggested it. I am not going to change the ones that I already did but going forward I will present as is best for easier reading.

    Thank you so much for your viewpoints on being married to unbelievers. I have much interest in that topic...and will post more on it later.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Hi Sandra,
    Thank you for your post Death of Toxic Relationships. It is the confirmation I have been seeking... You surely understand what I am going through in the friendship that I spoke of in my latest post. It was never really a friendship, for in it I felt trapped and manipulated... and have always sought a way out.

    I understand how the words of rejection spoken by such friend can be so appreciated - because it signals that the relationship is coming to an end, and your freedom from that friendship which has proven to be a prison of sorts is coming to an end.

    The post I did was not edited and revised, but I may still do that when I have time. There are points I need to clarify. I no longer want the friendship back, that is the point. I feel so free being out of it. It was "Jezebelic" and I felt like an Ahab for allowing her to so control my life, through her depression... made me feel guilty if I was not there for her.

    Always, more was required of me than I was willing to give.

    Clearly it was a toxic relationship. Your post helped make that clear to me, although I already knew it was time for me to let go and move on.

    I am so thankful I got to read this post today.

    I am commenting as an anonymous person, because I don't want readers to be able to link back to my blog, from this comment.

    Blessings...
    Lidj

    ReplyDelete
  15. Hi Lidj -

    I am so glad that our Lord used "DEATH OF TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS" to help you. It sure helped me when I wrote it, and continues to help me when I am led to read it again.

    Also, it is a joy to know that you recognize what our Lord has led you to do. It can be challenging sometimes to move on but our gracious Father makes it so worth it, and MORE!

    Note:
    "DEATH OF TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS" is available for copying/printing/distribution on blog "FREELY RECEIVED FREELY GIVEN" at www.giftsfromglory.blogspot.com - if you are so inclined.

    ReplyDelete
  16. I did think of posting Death of Toxic Relationships on my blog as a guest post, because it is so relevant to the journey I am currently on. It lines up so perfectly with the message God has spoken to me - that there are false burdens and false responsibilities that have operated in my life through this so called friendship, and that it is now time to move on. With your permission, may I do that? I will link back that particular post to your Freely Received Freely Given blog, once it is posted on my blog. (As understood, I will post it in its entirety, no revisions or deletions). Will wait for your go signal before I do it. Thanks again.

    Blessings,
    Lidj

    ReplyDelete
  17. Hi Lidj-

    Yes, you are certainly welcome to do as you have indicated above, and as indicated in the "Conditions" section of www.giftsofglory@blogspot.com.

    Thank you, Lidj, for your interest.

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  18. Lidj -

    My apologies -

    The correct site is www.giftsfromglory.blogspot.com

    In the comment above, I had giftsOFglory@...

    ReplyDelete
  19. Mother's Own....Girrrrrrl, say THAT!

    ReplyDelete

Greetings -

Thank you for visiting and commenting. It is my pleasure to read from your heart places. We are all students and teachers and I so enjoy, precious people, the beneficial engagements with you.