Let's be thankful

I found out about 1000 gifts through http://heidiscrafts.blogspot.com.au/  3 gifts a day equals 1000 a year.  I don't quite feel ready to take on that challenge but here are 10 things that I am thankful for, 10 gifts that God has given me.

#1 My amazing family

Here is our latest family photo, and one of my wonderful parents

#2 Smiles

Especially when they are as cute as these.  When someone smiles at you, smile back, and keep on smiling.

#3 The freedom to publicly know and love God.

#4 Books, There can never be enough

#5 God's amazing creation

#6 Music

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#7 Being Able to cook, even if the food doesn't last the day: )

#8 Dance

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#9 The Piano

#10 Love

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What are you thankful for?

* Courtesy of Google images

I Stand at the Door and Knock

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.  Revelations 3:20

I blogged this verse to go with these pictures

Baby Adorable standing at the door.  I am sure he would like to come in, just as Jesus would like to come into our heart.

Jesus Culture

Almost two weeks ago, I went to a conference in Brisbane called Jesus Culture.  These are my notes of things that were special to me from two of the teaching sessions.  Enjoy.

Foundations

At Jesus Culture one of the speakers talked about how important the foundation is.  Our foundation in Christ is made in secret .  Without a foundation nothing can last.  Our foundation can seem strong on the outside but it is only what is looks like on the inside that matters.  Make sure that personal breakthrough can occur and that will lead to critical breakthrough.  Unless our own foundation is on the rock, Jesus, God can't use us to impact and create breakthrough in cities.

Special points to me

A few points that were special to me from Jesus Culture were- In life we must learn not to go along for the ride, we must lead the ride. Being a leader means responsibility, and leaders live with that responsibility.  The church has responsibility for the nation and as a church we live with that.  Unless we are right with God we can't lead people in and to God's ways.  As leaders we must live, awaiting for God to bring revival.

Three points were...

Opportunity - opportunities will arise and we must be prepared to lead not just observe.
Empower - We need to pray that God will empower us when opportunities arise.
Faith - We need faith when God empowers us to be able to make a difference.
BEx

I Love This Verse

I just wanted to share this verse with you.  It is one of my favorites.  While it's fairly short it shows just how precious family is and how much it is worth.  Read Psalm 133 below.  Feel free to comment on what this verse means to you.

                               ¹How good and pleasant it is
                       when brothers and sisters live together in unity!
                       2It is like precious oil poured on the head,
                       running down on the beard,
                       running down on Aaron’s beard,
                       down on the collar of his robe.
                       3It is as if the dew of Hermon
                       were falling on Mount Zion.
                       For there the LORD bestows his blessing,
                       even life forevermore.
BEx

Sad times

I have been on a hard road lately.  Why? Well my Grandma died on 21st December.  Life just seems to be falling down around me, but thankfully I have a great family.  We all stuck together, and close to each other.  As a family we could overcome what happened and remember the good times.  It is a sad thing for those who love Grandma, but we can all remember that she is safe in the arms of Jesus.  In heaven there is no sickness and pain.
My grandma was diagnosed with cancer two years ago, but with prayer she lived longer than the doctors thought possible. In those two years she has made many special memories with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  She will always be remembered, especially for her love of the Lord, as well as her love of quilting, her flower garden, and how she made everyone feel welcome.  Grandma will be missed and remembered with love.  It is times like this that I and everyone else needs to rely on God. If we don't, we can become angry, hurt and play the BLAME GAME.  Always keep close to God. He will see you through all life's circumstances, encourage you and be your friend no matter what happens.  Be encouraged and inspired.  God is with you through all life's ups and downs, just as he is with me in my time of sorrow. BEx