Posts with the label devotional
Showing posts with label devotional. Show all posts
Showing posts with label devotional. Show all posts
Monday, March 28, 2016
Religious Liberties or Snobbery?
On March 8, 2016, the Georgia Baptist Mission Board (GBMB) issued a public affairs alert stating "Georgia Religious Liberty is "Being Held in the Balance". There is much controversy surrounding Georgia House Bill 757 addressing this issue. The biggest disagreement seems to be the potential discrimination of the GLBT community by a person's religious beliefs. Should a business owner be allowed, by the State of Georgia, to withhold services to homosexuals based upon their own religious conviction without fear of legal recourse?
"Being different", born with a disability, I understand the feeling of simply desiring to be accepted. My challenge is a mutated DNA problem and so may be some of the GLBT community. The Bible states homosexuality is sin right alongside divorce, fornication, babies out of wedlock, drunkenness, jealousy, stealing, murder, cursing and many of the abominable acts that are rampant in our current culture. I'm glad Jesus overcomes ALL and gives us victorious life over sin!
Can you imagine a society where you have to answer a questionnaire before being served? Have you ever been divorced or committed adultery? Have you ever cheated on a test? Are you illegitimate? What is your sexual preference? If you answer yes to one or more of these questions, according to the laws of the State of Georgia, we choose not to serve you at this establishment. Ridiculous, yes? But, I'm afraid the sexual preference question is included in GA HB757 as reported by the AJC. I wonder how Christian Business Owners intend to make the determination and differentiation? Will it be all GLBT or just same sex couples?
I agree with Governor Deal's comment about his religious faith:
“What the New Testament teaches us is that Jesus reached out to those who were considered the outcasts, the ones that did not conform to the religious societies’ view of the world. … We do not have a belief, in my way of looking at religion, that says we have to discriminate against anybody,” he said. “If you were to apply those standards to the teaching of Jesus, I don’t think they fit.”
Jesus showed his love, forgiveness and acceptance of humanity by dying on the cross as the only worthy sacrifice for human sin. He also practiced many non-discriminatory acts including taking water from the woman at the well (John 4) and eating dinner with Zacchaeus (Luke 19). Jesus dining at the house of the sinful tax collector got people talking. Luke 19:7 "And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner."
The following phrase from the GBMB alert particularly snagged my attention. The plea to Christians was the next to last sentence on the bulletin:
Remember: Be respectful and polite when contacting your elected officials.
The request reminded me of the TV show Hill Street Blues. After the police chief gave daily instructions to his unit, he always started their shift with the endearing words "Be careful out there". Having to ask Christians to be polite is akin to God needing to instruct Jesus "Be kind out there."
Update: According to the AJC Governor Deal vetoed HB757 today, Monday, March 28, 2016.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
He Appeared First to Mary
And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?
And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.
And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.
But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you. And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid.
Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils. Mark 16:2-9
...of whom he had cast seven devils. We may not have seven devils but we certainly have one per each of us....unless....he has appeared to you and you allowed him to cast it out!
...of whom he had cast seven devils. We may not have seven devils but we certainly have one per each of us....unless....he has appeared to you and you allowed him to cast it out!
Jesus!
He is risen.
Have you met him?
HAPPY EASTER
He is risen.
Have you met him?
HAPPY EASTER
Joyfully we adore thee,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Thursday, March 3, 2016
My Nose is Offended
You'll learn a little more about me after reading this newsletter. My brain makes some strange connections. You may be wondering how I'm going to connect an allergy with Jesus. The connection is made by awesome God-designed brain synapses. I could star in the movie "Brains Gone Wild!".
Steve and I are at Emory for two appointments today (prayers appreciated). I always talk to the doctor because I don't think Steve can speak as well as me. Seriously, Steve talks but I monitor him almost constantly, remember things he forgets and can tell you more about him than he can himself. I worried I wouldn't regain my voice before his appointment.
A synapse or maybe two connected me not being able to speak for Steve with Jesus. I imagined every human bowed at the feet of God unable to speak, no voice at all. Who will speak for me I wondered? Then, the most beautiful blessing filled by being when I realized this is exactly how it will be when I see God. I won't be doing the talking. Jesus will be speaking for me. His blood speaks for my life. No voice needed. Afterward, we will need voices to praise Christ for eternity! Isaiah 38:18-19 "For the grave cannot praise thee, death can not celebrate thee: they that go down into the pit cannot hope for thy truth. The living, the living, he shall praise thee, as I do this day: the father to the children shall make known thy truth."
Repeat Isaiah 38:19 The living, the living, he shall praise thee, as I do this day: the father to the children shall make known thy truth. The second thought I pondered after losing my voice is simple. Do I praise him and share the gospel enough that if I were silent, would God miss my praises? Would people miss my spoken faith? Would they notice I had not shared God lately? Would they notice my voice is gone and more specifically my voice for God dried up? We can speak well and still not have a voice for God. It is definitely something to give some consideration. I have.
See, I told you my brain makes some far out connections. I'm just so thankful that much of my ramblings lead back to Jesus, even allergic thoughts. An allergy is an immune response from our body when we become hypersensitive to a substance. I definitely don't want to become allergic to God but I'm sure he enjoys a little bit of "reaction" from us every now and again!
Recovering my voice,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Run Don't Walk to Heaven
Eldis is no ordinary woman. She's a mom, grandmother, friend, sister, wife, encourager, songwriter, piano player, drama director, fun-loving gift from God. She survived a double mastectomy from breast cancer, surgery for a brain aneurysm, widowed after 50+ years, raised seven kids (three of them adopted) and I won't attempt the number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, there are many! In short, there are many, many people who love this lady, including me. She's been one of my spiritual supports for Godly growth and a mentor to me about love; God's love. I've seen her many times like John the Revelator "caught up" in God's love repeating the same phrase over and over "God is love, God is love!"
I left the Independent Baptist Church I grew up in after worshipping there with Eldis and her family for 42 years. I joined First Baptist Chatsworth with my family, incidentally or not, the same church where Eldis grew up. I am thankful for my years at Mt. View Baptist. My move left some people scratching their heads wondering why I made such a drastic change from an uber-conservative church to Southern Baptist (also conservative).
The answer is simple. Whether it was self-inflicted or a very present demonstration, I grew up with an "unhealthy" fear of God. Watching Eldis, I grew to realize God is not "out to get me" for something I did or didn't do (not going to church on Wednesday night). He gave his only son, Jesus, so I might have life more abundantly. If I accept his sacrifice, apply it to my life and live for and through him, he is faithful and just to forgive my sin. Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. I've learned fear is respect and acknowledgment, reasoning together, not shrinking in the corner or coming to church because you fear what God will do to you if you don't. I interpret Godly fear similar to the way God wishes us to respect our parents, after all, he is our Father.
First Baptist Chatsworth has fostered the Eldis creed in me. When I walk thru the lovingly comfortable double doors I can feel the spirit of a younger Eldis chanting to me "God is love, God is love!" I am forever grateful to this extraordinary woman that held to her belief when others didn't fully understand. The basis of Eldis' faith is Jesus Christ and his love for her, mine is too. We will never outlove him.
As I watched this sweet family gathered around her hospital bed, laughing until they lost their breath, I marveled. Their faith impresses, to say the least. I only hope to possess this attitude when it's time to surrender my parents to their Heavenly Father. After a laughing frenzy, when Eldis regained her composure, she looked at me and said, "Tammy, I've always thought that God wants us to run to him happy when it's time instead of him having to drag us by the hair of the head saying (in the gruffest voice she could muster) "I SAID COME ON!""
As always Eldis, I think you're right!
Philippians 2:16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.
Proverbs 18:10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
***I had to edit this post to include a fond memory. Eldis was the first and last person to serve me ground beef gravy for breakfast. She subs ground beef for sausage in her gravy. Her family loves it! I had never heard of ground beef gravy let alone tasted it!. Eldis says, "You have to get creative when raising seven kids on a budget!" I didn't like it 35 years ago and still don't but I'm sure it's still a staple at the Smith house!
Love me some Eldis,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Sunday, February 7, 2016
When You Come to Church Looking Like a Bag Lady
When you come to church looking like a bag lady should anyone care?
My recent cashier at Dillard's most certainly would!
My mom and I were shopping the clearance sale at Dillard's Department Store last week. The cashier chatted like we were old acquaintances. Somehow, our conversation turned to tradition. She raved on about her nieces and nephews doing things backward, nothing in the old traditional ways. She shared. We listened.
She disgustedly disapproved of living together unwed, children out of wedlock and the audacity of her sister inviting her to a nephew's wedding with these important issues ignored! I’ll add here that I don’t consider these topics tradition. God doesn't approve this behavior because it is contrary to his word. I am following the conversation until she says, "And what about the way women come to church dressed like bag ladies? Didn’t their mother teach them how to dress?" Yep, she's a flaming traditionalist.
Ms. Cashier didn’t know me from Adam or Eve's house cat. She had no way of knowing shoes are a huge obstacle for me. Dressing like a Philadelphia lawyer does not come easy for me. This is where I looked off, mind racing, feeling unworthy and disengaged from the conversation. Politely, I never commented on her question.
I’ve owned the same black jumper for almost 30 years. I LOVE that old, faded, holed-pocket jumper. My safe, trusty knee-high boots are the perfect accessory! My mom HATES my jumper. She threatens to burn the dress. Her twin sister offered to buy me a replacement if I’d throw it away and never wear it again. My old black jumper is the most comfortable dress in my closet. I feel good about it and think it's stylish too! I've kidded them about being jealous and envying how good I look in that tattered old plain jumper. Of course, my mom probably thinks I need a mirror! I understand mom and others and the traditions they've been taught like; Easter requires a new dress.
What people don’t understand about my black jumper is I’ve worshiped Jesus corporately in that dress more than any other article of clothing I own. Jesus has wiped away my tears that spilled down my cheeks, curved under my chin, and rolled down my neck to land softly on the cotton fabric turning it an unfaded black. I gratefully wore the jumper with both of my pregnancies. I am so thankful I can wear this dress with my knee high boots hiding non-traditional feet, looking somewhat stylish and feeling somewhat normal. I can walk into the church with this ugly dress on, unassisted, because of what Jesus did for me. When I walk into the church looking like a bag lady, I’m not thinking about my clothing. I'm thinking about worshipping a King, my Savior!
Leviticus 19:15 Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honor the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbor.
When you come to church looking like a bag lady, OWN it! I wear my unattractive black jumper unconcerned about outward appearance because:
- a redeemed soul carries more valuables inside than a Coach purse
- a satisfied soul shines more brilliantly than diamonds
- a thankful heart turns more heads than Prada shoes
- a happy countenance is beautiful without Chanel makeup
- a praising tongue says more than a Vera Wang gown
God is my designer 365,
Tammy
Thursday, January 14, 2016
I Am Still Beautiful
On that evening in 2013, I reflected on a song from her childhood. I remembered her singing. "He's my rock, my sword, my shield, he's the hub in the middle of the wheel. He's the Lily of the Valley, the Bright and Morning Star. I don't care what people say. I'm gonna get on my knees and pray and I'm gonna wait, wait right here till my Jesus comes." My heart broke and I prayed.
Shaan had just given birth to her second child when she was diagnosed. I couldn't start to imagine the fear, the questions or the tears of her family, husband or herself. I've followed Shaan's story for 2+ years now. She's been through so much never losing her smile and sense of humor or desire to help others. Please refer to her video in the right sidebar to watch and hear her story of survival as told to a group in Orlando, FL. I know you'll agree with me. Shaan is a jewel! Her life hasn't been overshadowed by breast cancer but instead has been illuminated by courage and strength. I encourage you to support her fight for life by giving to her breast cancer fund. You can also read more of her story and receive updates of her ongoing journey by clicking the link.
SURVIVOR! Oh, so sweet! Shaan Hawkins, you can always say "I am still beautiful!", because you are!
Admiring Survivors,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
5 Traits you need to be "Highly Favored" by God
"I can never be like Mary. She is the mother of Jesus!"
Is that what your brain screamed inside your head when you read Five Traits you need to be "Highly Favored" by God? You may be more like Mary than you think. Mary was an ordinary girl with an extraordinary purpose. No, we will never be the mother of Jesus but we are definitely part of his spiritual genealogy making it possible for us to be "highly favored" by God. According to my understanding of Scripture, here are five of the traits we need:
- Be a Virgin. Luke 1:27 ".....and the virgin's name was Mary." Impossible, right? Not exactly. If you have experienced rebirth through Jesus, you are a virgin. You possess the pristine untouched, untainted, flawless spirit of Christ. You are adorned in your bridal gown awaiting your bridegroom.
- Pay Attention to God's Messenger. Luke 1:28-29 "And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. And when she saw him..." Can you imagine if Mary had ignored the angel that particular day? Hebrews 13:2 assures us there are angels among us if only we would entertain strangers and be aware.
- Fearless. Luke 1:30 "And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary..." Now, this was a situation stirring up some fear. Mary was in an unconsummated marriage; PREGNANT! I understand why she might be afraid. She trusted, believed and delivered to the world a savior.
- Be Inquisitive. Luke 1:34 "Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?" It is okay to ask some questions, even of God. He doesn't expect us to accept status quo, rather, he instructs us to make sure we are following his commands. I John 4:1 "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world."
- Be Obedient. Luke 1:38 "And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word..." Mary accepted her calling with grace and humbleness.
No. We are not Mary. We are not the mother of Jesus. But, I am his child. Are you? And, who doesn't favor their children?
Seeking His approval,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Friday, December 18, 2015
Hanging by a Holiday Thread
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Thursday, December 3, 2015
Your Christmas Chord
There are four types of music chords; major, minor, augmented and diminished. I want to talk about the first two, major and minor. Major means greater. Minor means lesser. Chord structure sets the tone of a song. For example, major chords produce generally happy sounding songs while minor chords are used to create a dark or sinister mood in a song. Then, there's timing which also plays an important role in a song's personality. I'll not go there because I can see Sloane shaking her head and nervously screaming "NO!!". My timing is brutally off, all wrong according to music theory and Sloane!
Hark the Herald Angels Sing is written in a major chord. The song is upbeat and happy.God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen is written in a minor chord. The song is serious with an almost unhappy sound. You can hear immediately the vast difference between major and minor chord structure in these popular Christmas carols. Consider this music knowledge and examine your heart this Christmas. Is your heart singing a major tune, happy and joyous or is it moaning a minor song with despair and darkness? Your heart song matters. People can almost instantly know the condition of your heart by the words that flow from your mouth, thus, the song you sing.
Philippians 2:2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord (a chord), of one mind. See, you know more about music than you thought. Chords hold major importance on our most minor days!
Majoring in Heart,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Thursday, November 26, 2015
The Power of Thankfulness
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Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Five Things Christians Should Learn From Veterans
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| photo credit: rodlamkeyphotography.com |
Thank you to each and every man or woman, past and present, who has served in any branch of the United States Armed Forces. I personally can never repay you or thank you enough for your sacrifice.
As I reflect on Veteran's Day this November 11th, 2015, I quickly recognize so many things Christians should learn from veterans. Please allow me to share five:
- Train for your service. Soldiers have to make it through Basic Training before they enter the battle. 2 Timothy 2:15 says "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." You cannot battle the enemy without adequate training.
- Willing and ready to fight. A true soldier stands armed and ready to do their job. Philemon 1:14...., that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.
- Unashamed. Soldiers don't challenge orders and act responsibly. Psalm 119:6 Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments.
- Stick together. Once a soldier always a soldier. There's a special bond between the band of brothers. Psalm 34:3 O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.
- Love their fellow man. Soldiers love people above themselves even unto death. I John 3:14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
Happy Veteran's Day!
So thankful for freedom,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Friday, November 6, 2015
Nobody Comes
Rana Elyse Mashburn (12/03/1997 - 10/22/2015) continues to impact my life daily. I followed her recent journey with HLH from Day 1 - July 13, 2015. The calendar makes her journey seem short. Rana's courage and words make her journey everlasting.
I read this note written by Rana shared by her mom on September 24th. (Please take a moment to read the entire passage if you did not already.) I felt the anguish Rana was experiencing trying to understand and cope with the situation, her circumstances. Hundreds of miles from home in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar people, except her Mom. Her words won't leave me. "Nobody comes."
You and I know what Rana meant. People were coming. I saw visits posted on facebook. She knew people were coming also. Those closest to her were there every possible time they could be. Her mother never left her. I believe Rana was sad because her extended family and friends didn't visit her for whatever reason. It was a critical time in her life. She knew more than us. She couldn't wait.
God used Rana's words to show me his heart. He said, "She's right. Nobody comes." As I began to ponder the phrase, the magnitude of "Nobody comes" enveloped my mind and sank into the depths of my heart. Jesus shares...
Every time people worship me in public places, those closest to me are there every possible time they can be. I am sad because those who need me as Savior, those who have accepted me but not totally dedicated their lives, those who have turned their back on me, those who say they know me but don't, those I died for never comes. Nobody comes. My Father has never left me.
It is a critical time in all our lives. Praise God. Jesus waits...
Lovingly,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Exemplifying Christ
Rana Elyse
Mashburn, 17, received her wings Thursday, Oct. 22, 2015, at the Cincinnati Children’s
Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio, from Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), an
auto immune disease in which a person’s immune system will attack its own
tissues and organs.
Her mother Kathy writes in her obituary, Rana was a brave and faithful warrior for Jesus Christ, and I'm honored He found favor in healing her of this awful disease. She fought a courageous fight from day one and she never once stopped thinking of everyone else. She participated in several research studies and procedures in hopes others would be successful in like battles. Rana witnessed many times about her love of God and her salvation. She spoke and wrote more than once of talking to God and Randy, and I know she did. I believe she flew swiftly with wings to be with them in God's paradise. I am thankful she is in Heaven, and I praise God for calling her to an eternal life without sickness or sorrow. If anyone should not believe in God, remember Rana's battle, because she lived victoriously and loved unconditionally. She lived #RanaStrong! Celebrate her with love and happiness because that's what she would want. My heart breaks, but my soul sings, "How Great Thou Art!" God is faithful and He has blessed me beyond what I deserve. Rana was a gift I treasured, and I will love her forever!
The picture above shows a couple of things Rana said and asked while she was intubated for several months. "I actually have been praying for a testimony that God would use me." This gives me chills that a 17-year-old would be this wise and forthright about her living (and dying) sacrifice for Jesus. I can only hope to be so selfless.
Matthew 10:37-39
Her mother Kathy writes in her obituary, Rana was a brave and faithful warrior for Jesus Christ, and I'm honored He found favor in healing her of this awful disease. She fought a courageous fight from day one and she never once stopped thinking of everyone else. She participated in several research studies and procedures in hopes others would be successful in like battles. Rana witnessed many times about her love of God and her salvation. She spoke and wrote more than once of talking to God and Randy, and I know she did. I believe she flew swiftly with wings to be with them in God's paradise. I am thankful she is in Heaven, and I praise God for calling her to an eternal life without sickness or sorrow. If anyone should not believe in God, remember Rana's battle, because she lived victoriously and loved unconditionally. She lived #RanaStrong! Celebrate her with love and happiness because that's what she would want. My heart breaks, but my soul sings, "How Great Thou Art!" God is faithful and He has blessed me beyond what I deserve. Rana was a gift I treasured, and I will love her forever!
The picture above shows a couple of things Rana said and asked while she was intubated for several months. "I actually have been praying for a testimony that God would use me." This gives me chills that a 17-year-old would be this wise and forthright about her living (and dying) sacrifice for Jesus. I can only hope to be so selfless.
Matthew 10:37-39
He that loveth father or
mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter
more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his
cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his
life for my sake shall find it.
Rana was a good disciple worthy of Him. She is #JesusStrong. I dedicate this blog to her. May her memory and testimony speak forever. #ranastrong
Rana was a good disciple worthy of Him. She is #JesusStrong. I dedicate this blog to her. May her memory and testimony speak forever. #ranastrong
In loving tribute,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Five ways Jesus "remodels" us
I enjoy remodeling houses. Some people reading this are chuckling under their breaths because that may be an understatement. Our house is 30 years old and I admit to remodeling several times since building in 1985. My problem is I see potential EVERYWHERE and in EVERYTHING! My question to skeptical people who want to leave well enough alone, "Is maximizing potential wrong? Where some see old and used up, I see new life.
Jesus was a carpenter by trade. A carpenter who physically built houses. Jesus works in our lives spiritually and sometimes physically still using his God-given building skills. He...
1. Tears down walls. Corinthians 10:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)
2. Builds up. Jude 1:20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
3. Lays a firm foundation. Isaiah 28:16 Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.
4. Has building codes. Matthew 7:25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
5. Satisfies the inspector. I John 2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
Jesus uses his master carpenter tools to maximize our potential. You may be or feel old and used up but Jesus can give you new life. Aren't you glad he sees potential in you?
Under construction,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Sunday, October 18, 2015
WARNING: Revelations are addictive!
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reported in 2013, 86.8 percent of people ages 18 and older reported that they drank alcohol at some point in their lifetime. Substance abuse is prevalent but not the only addiction people struggle with. There are also behavioral addictions like gambling, food, sex, video games and work. I'm surprised my picture wasn't beside the definition of food addiction. I see me there in my t-shirt with my bloomers shining digging in the pantry at midnight!
I love the powerful truth in Jeremiah 33:3. Many years ago I began seeking God's revelations. Do you? Read it again and soak it up.
CALL TO ME AND I WILL ANSWER YOU AND I WILL TELL YOU GREAT AND MIGHTY THINGS WHICH YOU DO NOT KNOW.
Is that exciting or what? It is THE addiction I don't want to recover from! God's truth doesn't cause any adverse reactions; no hangovers, no fear of overdose, doesn't make me overweight or doesn't cost me money. I don't need a counselor to discuss it with me, God is my counselor!
If you've been looking for something to improve your quality of life, THIS IS IT! One of my favorite, all-time can't forget sermons by my favorite, all-time can't forget pastor is entitled "Are you addicted to Jesus?" YES, I AM! I crave his enlightenment. I live for his joy! I have withdrawals if he doesn't tell me great and mighty things! I have to have his fix! Try Him. Before you know it, you'll be calling on Jesus every day to guide you to make life-changing decisions or complete simple everyday tasks and then you'll be giving him praise every time YOU call and HE answers!
That same pastor used to say "I know a few things!" He'd go on to tell that Jesus had told him some things and you wouldn't change his mind about it unless Jesus told him different. I understand what he means. Jeremiah 33:3. I know many great and mighty things which I did not know until Jesus told me. Godly revelations are nothing short of amazing. I'm gonna call them a..... "Hi from the Most High!"
Jesus is THE BEST addiction ever. Are you addicted?
Not gonna recover,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Re-prioritizing Busy
We, the self-proclaimed God-followers, have gotten some things turned backward from the way the Bible instructs. We have been taught by our religious entities or church that serving God includes working our fingers to the bones on programs, dinners and such. In short, busywork! Is "busy" what God wants from us? Does he want us to feel guilty saying no to church work?
Luke 10:1-9 tells us Jesus sent 70 laborers into the field because the harvest is great. These appointed workers were instructed to go into a house, empty-handed and speak peace upon the house. Whether peace is there or not, remain in the chosen house eating what is offered. Go not from house to house. Heal the sick in the house and tell them "The Kingdom of God is come nigh unto you." Here's the things I notice about these paraphrased scriptures and maybe how we should apply them today:
- The workers went to the people. They weren't told to go to church and wait for folks to come to them. They didn't go to church and pray or hope that God would bring new people to them. God sent them to the people.
- They went empty-handed without purse, bag or shoes and were told to not speak to anyone on their way. I believe this allowed the workers to remain anonymous and humble so when the workers left, the people of the house wouldn't remember them but rather remember they had been visited by God. Sometimes we are so adorned with "stuff" that's all people see.
- Visit with the people of the house you're in, whether they are at peace or not. Stay awhile. You want Jesus to take time with you, right? I do! I want him by my side in the sunshine and the rain.
- The people of the house feed you. Hot dogs and hamburgers weren't advertised to get people to God. Rather, God went to the people and they were deservingly fed for their labor.
- Heal the sick. Can we heal? Absolutely. The power of God through his Word can heal. These laborers simply said nine words, "The Kingdom of God is come nigh unto you."
Still busy? Still struggling to put some of the church work aside? Still feel guilty saying no because Jesus would be disappointed? Ask yourself this question: Are you disappointing Jesus, yourself or someone else? Then, let's look at the end of Luke 10 where Jesus visits two sisters, Mary and Martha. MARTHA IS BUSY! She even tattles on Mary hoping Jesus would tell her sister to get up and help her. Instead, Jesus tries to show Martha that it is more important to seek his words and sit at his feet than all her busywork. Mary chose that good part which is needful and cannot be taken away from her. Can we effectively serve God by SITTING at his feet? Yes!
We need to re-prioritize and quit all the busywork. I used to run around like a crazy person trying to help keep everything going at church. Don't get me wrong. God's church needs workers. I'm just not sure we're going about it correctly. And, God can keep things going with or without us. It became a pride thing for me which is sinful. "I did this and I did that and I did that too!" Jesus does the work, not "I" or you. We can't work enough to please Jesus. He doesn't require it. Salvation is guilt-free.
If we don't remove our own guilt, sit at his feet enjoying his majesty and rest a bit, we may find ourselves like Peter and the other disciples. When Jesus needed them most, in a garden at the most critical point of his short life, we'll be exhausted and asleep! I would hate to disappoint Jesus when he is counting on me and hear him say "What, could ye not watch with me one hour?"
Re-prioritizing,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Thursday, September 24, 2015
The Truth about Cauliflower
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| Cauliflower Fried Rice |
During dinner that night, God began to point out some things to me about this meal. I'd like to share them with you. As you read the bullet points below, consider Matthew 24:4-5 "Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many."
- The cauliflower looks impressively like rice but it is not rice.
- The cauliflower tastes deliciously like rice but it is not rice.
- The cauliflower has low calories and carbs and will not satisfy hunger like rice.
- Cauliflower and rice are deceptively the same color.
- Cauliflower costs more without the same benefits.
Matthew 24:24 says "For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."
After reading this, I hope you never look at cauliflower quite the same way. May the vegetable remind you that all things are not as they appear. Be careful with your choices. You can always spit out cauliflower and eat some rice. What you don't want is to get spit out by God. Ketchup looks impressively like blood but it is not!
Seeking truth,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Everyone wears Designer Labels
Have you ever considered you are a Designer Label? Jeremiah 1:5 says "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." How SPECIAL are you? I was born in 1963. Tammy Dennease Parker born October 2, 1963. I was more than one hundred and sixty-three years in the making. Today's top designers like Gucci, Chanel and Louis Vuitton don't even live that long. God prepared me and you especially for our specific days to be born.
Think about it. Before anything was, you were already known by God. You are more valuable than the most expensive name in the world for many reasons:
- You are priceless. No amount of money could have produced your label...only God.
- You are unique. There will never be another you, even twins are genetically different in some way.
- You are an original. You cannot be copied or reproduced, even in a test tube.
- You will never go "out-of-style". Your design is always valuable even when growing old and becoming dated.
- You are "out-of-this-world" perfect. Your design is eternal.
Supremely designed,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
It Could Happen to You
This morning as I lay with Rana, I find myself thinking about all we've been through together and all things that may come. Kissing her precious bald head and holding her weak hand, I soak in this moment as she nuzzles closer to me to find comfort and safety. Tears of gratitude stream down my face as I pray silently to God on her behalf as waves of nausea pass. I know God hears me because I feel his presence. Laying my hand on Rana, I claim victory in Jesus and I thank him for walking with us in this season. I rebuke Satan over and over again because I am faithfully believing God is able to heal her to his glory. I will not give up the fight and I will not stop praying because to do anything else is impossible for my heart to understand.
My dear friend Kathy Mashburn wrote this about her sweet daughter Rana just yesterday. As I'm writing this tonight, she is in the ER at T.C. Thompson's Children's Hospital in Chattanooga, TN waiting on fluids to replenish Rana's frail body. July 13, 2015 started out as a normal day but as Kathy watched her daughter grow sicker and sicker, she knew something was wrong. That's the day Rana was diagnosed with HLH, a life-threatening autoimmune disorder. This is Rana's senior year of high school. She is 17 years old.
She receives chemo to suppress her immune system which has caused her hair to come out. She is still glowingly beautiful! Kathy has been widowed about five years. Her husband passed from a long illness with a heart disease. Kathy is one of the strongest and most talented people I know. Two weeks before Rana's diagnosis, Kathy and I were scheduled to have lunch. We rescheduled due to conflicts. I just can't believe how drastically and quickly her life changed.. My heart weeps for this family. They are constantly in my thoughts and prayers.
I wish I could do something great for Kathy and Rana. All I can do is wait on God as they are faithfully doing. I have opened a Pampered Chef fundraiser for them at www.tinyurl.com/ranastrong, 15% of your purchase will go directly to Kathy for expenses. Rana has labwork several times a week and chemo 50 miles from her home. Kathy can't work, Rana requires too much daily care. Cash donations are also accepted via Paypal at tammy.stafford@hotmail.com. If you feel compelled to help this dear mother and daughter, please don't hesitate, do it now!
Our world changed quickly March 2012 when Steve was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease causing pulmonary fibrosis. The doctor flippantly said "You've got 3 to 5 years." The news is like being on the playground on the merry-go-round on an extremely hot day. One minute you're having so much fun and the next minute, you're nauseously ill, wondering when it will stop and praying it never does. So scary and unsure. God is our refuge and strength. He is the giver and taker of life, not a doctor. Please don't neglect to thank God every day for your health and well being. You just never know when something like this could happen to you or yours.
For more information on HLH and Kathy, please click the links in this article. Thanks in advance for your prayers, donations and kindness. Follow updates for Rana on Facebook at RanaStrong or on Twitter using #ranastrong.
Fighting for her life,
Tammy
The Happy Handicap
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