Rambling Friday: Our Failed Harvest

Oh, yeah, we're not much of a gardener family for several reasons.

Let me be clear, We love planting and having a garden so that's not the problem.

But what is the problem is:

• pesky wild animals (like deer and rabbits and who knows what else) who also like eating food they've not worked for
• busyness.

You see, we live a busy life with work, travel, ministry, family, and just plain life. We love being busy, but sometimes...things get a little too busy. That's where the problem comes in with gardening. Weeds don't get pulled. Watering is skimpy when we forget because we're gone or on the run with work. 

Then there are the wild animals who think we live here to feed them. If they're not eating our broccoli, they're feasting on whatever else looks tempting. Keeping them out is nearly impossible. Somehow they find a way. And probably laugh each time their supper is over--at our expense, of course. 

We have good intentions. We really want a garden and the produce from it. We love fresh produce and the satisfaction of eating the fruit of our gardening labors.

So there you have it. The two big reasons we seldom have much success at gardening. 

Sigh.

But then, there's next year. Maybe we'll give it a shot. After all, we have all year to plan how to succeed! 

Happy day! 

Moving On...

Christmas is over. The shopping and planning and most get-togethers are finished for now. The
stress of what to buy, of spending what you don't have is done with...for now.

So what's next?

Next, for me, is taking stock. I'm facing, with God's blessing, a new year. Brand new and sparkling white and clean. So how to take advantage of it in the best possible way?

Take stock. Figure out where I am and where I want to be this time next year. 

1. In my writing, decide reasonable goals on what I want to accomplish. How many books will I be putting out there this year? One? Two? More? Then I must be diligent. Remind myself often that goals cannot be met without constant work. Every day get something written, and if I have to miss a day, there had better be a good reason!
2. In our ministry work:  how can I be a better helper to my husband? When I need to take initiative, can I do with it humbleness and wisdom? Is there someone I want to focus on in winning them to the Lord? What about encouragement? Who is God placing on my heart? 
3. In my own personal life?  Am I allowing laziness or negligence to contribute to missed devotional times with my God? How can I be more diligent in pursuing time alone with Him? What can I do to eliminate hindrances that prevent this? 
4. With my body? Yes, I need to lose a few pounds. Yes, I give way to eating unhealthy foods when I know I should refrain. How can I tighten up these faults? What can I do that will help me gain momentum in this area?

Enough? Of course. If I can attain these goals, I will have improved. Can I do it? I hope so. I'm going to try hard. 

What is one goal you're hoping to accomplish this year? 

Blessings and wishes for a wonderful New Year!

What Did I Do With My Summer?

What Have I Done With My Summer?

misThat is the question, is it not for all of us?

"The Joy of Harvest" from Isaiah

• Vacations: besides the fun and joy of being with family, did I do what I could to encourage my loved ones toward godliness? Did I lift up their spirits? Did I speak words of kindness rather than criticism? Did I show appreciation for the glorious scenery, the wonder of their smiles and the good times?

• Church Camps: Did I do my part in celebrating the spirit of revival in hearts? Did I take the time to speak to those fighting trials and disheartening times? Did I enthusiastically participate in events to encourage others to do the same? 

• Home Life: Did I keep up with devotions? Did I ask for help when needed, whether from my God or from others who were willing to do so? Did I accomplish what I planned on doing throughout these weeks? Have I grown spiritually, mentally, and even physically (by keeping up with the right training and eating for me?

• Ministry Work: Whether in weekly church services and/or events such as Vacation Bible School, etc., or special services of music or ministry, did I volunteer willingly? Did I put my all into the work, or begrudgingly complain that I was too busy; why couldn't someone else do something? Was my heart totally lifted up to HIM in obedience? 

Can I say positively "yes" to all these questions (and more)? Probably not. Have I learned lessons I needed through these past three months that have taught me to be more willing, less out-spoken, more encouraging, etc? I hope so. 

Whether we had a busy, constantly on-the-go summer or quiet, relaxing times alone, we need to be vigilant in keeping ourselves ready and obedient to harvest what God has for us. 

And it's never too late! :)  Autumn is coming--the time of reaping. Let us look forward to good times ahead. 

Abundant blessings!