Tuesday, 29 March 2011
Meditation, source unknown.
If you never felt pain, then how would you know I am a Healer? If you never had to pray, how would you know that I am a Deliverer? If you never had a trial, how could you call yourself an overcomer? If you never felt sadness, how would you know I am a Comforter? If you never made a mistake, how would you know that I am a forgiver? If you knew all, how would you know that I will answer your questions? If you never were in trouble, how would you know that I will come to your rescue? If you never were broken, then how would you know that I can make you whole? If you never had a problem, then how would you know that I can solve them? If you never had any suffering, then how would you know what I went through? If you never went through fire, then how would you become pure? If I gave you all things, how would you appreciate them? If I never corrected you, how would you know that I love you? If you had all power, then how would you learn to depend on me? If your life was perfect, then what would you need me for? Love, Jesus.
Sunday, 20 March 2011
The Rest of God
A few years ago God gave me a short message, it was. "You will bow before me, you will bow in my presence."
For so long, I have have struggled to understand what He was trying to tell me.
However, now, I think I have a better understanding. Basically, it is to do with patience, humility and resting in Him.
Psalm 95 has given me some understanding. Verse 6:7 'O come let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before our maker. For He is our God and we are the people of His pasture. And the sheep of his hand.'
Worship is dear to my heart. For thirteen years I was privileged to lead worship in church. But since our building was sold and our church congregation scattered abroad, so to speak, I have felt lost, wondering in a wilderness.
Raising my voice to sing is hard. I feel stifled and bound. The freedom I once had is gone.
Sometimes I struggle to worship at all, but this psalm exhorts us to do just that. To realize who God is and what He has done. To worship in spirit and in truth. Worship through the pain and sadness.
To humble myself and bow in His Divine and glorious presence.
In verse 11 there is a warning, not to be like those who test God, they will not enter His rest.
We had a word from God just before we heard our building was sold. He said. 'Rest,' among other things.
Resting is hard to do when you are used to having a ministry and working with God.
It is even harder for my husband. I know he is struggling.
In the church we have been attending for a few months now, we were given a word from an elder. God told us through him, that we will not be staying there.
It has unsettled us. We are praying God will lead us out of this wilderness soon, and show us where He wants us to be and what He wants us to do.
In one way it's a blessing to know He has a work for us, it's not over. In fact from the word we received, it's only just begun.
One of my favourite authors F.B.Meyer explains psalm 95 this way. He says, this psalm is deeply woven into the life of the church, because of the worshipful strain which pervades it.
The works of God in creation are specially enumerated as incentives to praise.The sea, the hills, the deep places of earth have often inspired the minstrel, but how much more the devout soul.
There is a sabbath of the heart, when the will is yielded to Gods will, and the heart is cleansed from it's wayward whims. When the very peace of the Divine nature, settles down on the heart.
That experience is an entrance into Gods rest. It remains unexhausted for all the people of God.
Let us not miss it through default of faith!
I pray God, my hubby and I will attain God's rest, and have the opportunity to glorify Him.
For so long, I have have struggled to understand what He was trying to tell me.
However, now, I think I have a better understanding. Basically, it is to do with patience, humility and resting in Him.
Psalm 95 has given me some understanding. Verse 6:7 'O come let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before our maker. For He is our God and we are the people of His pasture. And the sheep of his hand.'
Worship is dear to my heart. For thirteen years I was privileged to lead worship in church. But since our building was sold and our church congregation scattered abroad, so to speak, I have felt lost, wondering in a wilderness.
Raising my voice to sing is hard. I feel stifled and bound. The freedom I once had is gone.
Sometimes I struggle to worship at all, but this psalm exhorts us to do just that. To realize who God is and what He has done. To worship in spirit and in truth. Worship through the pain and sadness.
To humble myself and bow in His Divine and glorious presence.
In verse 11 there is a warning, not to be like those who test God, they will not enter His rest.
We had a word from God just before we heard our building was sold. He said. 'Rest,' among other things.
Resting is hard to do when you are used to having a ministry and working with God.
It is even harder for my husband. I know he is struggling.
In the church we have been attending for a few months now, we were given a word from an elder. God told us through him, that we will not be staying there.
It has unsettled us. We are praying God will lead us out of this wilderness soon, and show us where He wants us to be and what He wants us to do.
In one way it's a blessing to know He has a work for us, it's not over. In fact from the word we received, it's only just begun.
One of my favourite authors F.B.Meyer explains psalm 95 this way. He says, this psalm is deeply woven into the life of the church, because of the worshipful strain which pervades it.
The works of God in creation are specially enumerated as incentives to praise.The sea, the hills, the deep places of earth have often inspired the minstrel, but how much more the devout soul.
There is a sabbath of the heart, when the will is yielded to Gods will, and the heart is cleansed from it's wayward whims. When the very peace of the Divine nature, settles down on the heart.
That experience is an entrance into Gods rest. It remains unexhausted for all the people of God.
Let us not miss it through default of faith!
I pray God, my hubby and I will attain God's rest, and have the opportunity to glorify Him.
Monday, 28 February 2011
With God, all obstacles serve His purpose. We all have mountains in our lives. Problems great and small that seem insurmountable, hindering our progress.
That job we hate, the personal problem we can't seem to overcome. Relationship problems, all seemingly unconquerable.
Not so, God can remove all and any of our problems, but, He can also make us what He wants us to be through them. Sometimes He puts the mountain there. However, we know, God will never fail to keep His promises.
He understands the way we take, and when we come to the foot of the mountain, we shall find the way.
The meaning of trial is not only to test worthiness, but to increase it. As the oak is not only tested by the storms, but toughened by them. So the mountains in our lives test and toughen us.
That job we hate, the personal problem we can't seem to overcome. Relationship problems, all seemingly unconquerable.
Not so, God can remove all and any of our problems, but, He can also make us what He wants us to be through them. Sometimes He puts the mountain there. However, we know, God will never fail to keep His promises.
He understands the way we take, and when we come to the foot of the mountain, we shall find the way.
The meaning of trial is not only to test worthiness, but to increase it. As the oak is not only tested by the storms, but toughened by them. So the mountains in our lives test and toughen us.
Trees
Trees are beautiful, and so diverse. From them we receive oxygen, shelter, wood for homes, furnishings and so much more.
Some grow quickly, some more slowly. There are those which are shallow rooted and others with deep roots, equal to the size of their topmost branches. What is below, shadows what can be seen above.
There is a Chinese tree, that comes from a very small seed. When planted, for four years all that can be seen is a tiny sprig and bud.
However, in the fifth year, it suddenly grows eighty feet.
In those four years, it has been putting down an incredible root system, strong enough to support its amazing growth.
We too must be patient and make sure we are firmly planted in the word of God. The seed of life.
The trees with the deepest roots and the most flexible trunks are those which survive the storms of life.
Patience is maturity.
Trees are beautiful, and so diverse. From them we receive oxygen, shelter, wood for homes, furnishings and so much more.
Some grow quickly, some more slowly. There are those which are shallow rooted and others with deep roots, equal to the size of their topmost branches. What is below, shadows what can be seen above.
There is a Chinese tree, that comes from a very small seed. When planted, for four years all that can be seen is a tiny sprig and bud.
However, in the fifth year, it suddenly grows eighty feet.
In those four years, it has been putting down an incredible root system, strong enough to support its amazing growth.
We too must be patient and make sure we are firmly planted in the word of God. The seed of life.
The trees with the deepest roots and the most flexible trunks are those which survive the storms of life.
Patience is maturity.
A magnificent young eagle stood on the edge of his nest, stretching and flapping his mighty wings. He gazed into the cloudless blue sky and then launched out onto the warm thermal.
His parents followed, and as his confidence and expertise grew, the three of them soared together, enjoying the freedom their wings gave them.
The sky is the eagles home, and the heavenly heights their domain. They are safe, not flying too low, always keeping that skyward look' Created to soar above the winds and storms
We too must keep our eyes heavenward.
Keep our faith and hope strong in Jesus. He is the one who enables us to soar above the storms and trials of this life.
Soar like the eagle.
Keep looking skyward.
His parents followed, and as his confidence and expertise grew, the three of them soared together, enjoying the freedom their wings gave them.
The sky is the eagles home, and the heavenly heights their domain. They are safe, not flying too low, always keeping that skyward look' Created to soar above the winds and storms
We too must keep our eyes heavenward.
Keep our faith and hope strong in Jesus. He is the one who enables us to soar above the storms and trials of this life.
Soar like the eagle.
Keep looking skyward.
Sunday, 23 January 2011
'Valley of Shadows' survey
Some of my writing friends have put together a survey of their latest book. I thought, "what a brilliant idea." So decided to have a go. They chose to leave out certain questions, I may well do the same, but anyway here goes.
Valley of Shadows
1] What's your word count? 70,645
2] How long until you finish? How long is a piece of string. Seriously though, I am finished, bar the editing process.
3] If finished, how long did it take you? I guess in all, around three years.
4] Do you have an outline? Not as such. I generally have a good idea of the story, where it's going, and how it will end. I do make a list of characters with their with their distinguishing features. Mind you, that often changes as the stories progresses. But on the whole, I like to write like a mad thing, and follow my imagination.
6] How many words do you write a day? I suppose, a thousand, maybe more.
7] What was your greatest word count for one day? About 5,000.
9] What inspired you to write? You will think this strange, and it's certainly sad. But it was the death of my sister.
10] Does your novel have a theme song? Not really, but if it did, it would be 'The Lord's my Shepherd.'
12] Which character is most like you? I guess there is some of me in Cyella.
13] Which character would you most likely be friends with? That would have to be Mary.
15] Who is your favourite character? Sunrise.
16] Have your characters done something completely unexpected? Not really, everything they experience is unexpected.
17] Have you based any of your novel on personal experience? My whole novel was born out of the tragic death of my younger sister.
18] What is the best line? The wide path panders to mankind's incessant desire to reach their destination as quickly as possible. no matter the consequences.
28] Summarize your novel in under fifteen words. What Cyella faced in the valley, messed with her mind.
29] Do you love all your characters? Goodness, no! some of them are awful.
32] Describe your main character in three words. Plucky, Strong Willed, Sensitive.
35] How many romantic relationships take place in your novel? Two.
36] Are there any explosions? No
45] Who has pets in the novel, and what are they? The Mistress, and Remstiss the Necromancer both have black cats.
46] Are there Angels, demons, or any religious references? No Angel, but yes, to the other two.
51] Is there humour? A little, yes.
52] Is there tragedy? Yes, I'm afraid so.
57] Has your novel provided insight about your life? In some ways I guess it has. Probably because I buried my grief over the death of my sister within its pages.
59] Has your novel inspired anyone? From what I have heard, yes.
68] How would you react if your novel was erased entirely? You don't want to know, and nor do I! But, such an horrendous idea is not likely, as it is backed up all over the place.
71] What advice would you give a fellow writer? Stay committed. Make it as good as is humanly possible. And don't allow rejections to put you off. Stay confident, and keep believing in yourself.
72] Describe the ending in three words. Romantic, Positive, Victorious.
75] Was it worth it? You bet it was!!
Valley of Shadows
1] What's your word count? 70,645
2] How long until you finish? How long is a piece of string. Seriously though, I am finished, bar the editing process.
3] If finished, how long did it take you? I guess in all, around three years.
4] Do you have an outline? Not as such. I generally have a good idea of the story, where it's going, and how it will end. I do make a list of characters with their with their distinguishing features. Mind you, that often changes as the stories progresses. But on the whole, I like to write like a mad thing, and follow my imagination.
6] How many words do you write a day? I suppose, a thousand, maybe more.
7] What was your greatest word count for one day? About 5,000.
9] What inspired you to write? You will think this strange, and it's certainly sad. But it was the death of my sister.
10] Does your novel have a theme song? Not really, but if it did, it would be 'The Lord's my Shepherd.'
12] Which character is most like you? I guess there is some of me in Cyella.
13] Which character would you most likely be friends with? That would have to be Mary.
15] Who is your favourite character? Sunrise.
16] Have your characters done something completely unexpected? Not really, everything they experience is unexpected.
17] Have you based any of your novel on personal experience? My whole novel was born out of the tragic death of my younger sister.
18] What is the best line? The wide path panders to mankind's incessant desire to reach their destination as quickly as possible. no matter the consequences.
28] Summarize your novel in under fifteen words. What Cyella faced in the valley, messed with her mind.
29] Do you love all your characters? Goodness, no! some of them are awful.
32] Describe your main character in three words. Plucky, Strong Willed, Sensitive.
35] How many romantic relationships take place in your novel? Two.
36] Are there any explosions? No
45] Who has pets in the novel, and what are they? The Mistress, and Remstiss the Necromancer both have black cats.
46] Are there Angels, demons, or any religious references? No Angel, but yes, to the other two.
51] Is there humour? A little, yes.
52] Is there tragedy? Yes, I'm afraid so.
57] Has your novel provided insight about your life? In some ways I guess it has. Probably because I buried my grief over the death of my sister within its pages.
59] Has your novel inspired anyone? From what I have heard, yes.
68] How would you react if your novel was erased entirely? You don't want to know, and nor do I! But, such an horrendous idea is not likely, as it is backed up all over the place.
71] What advice would you give a fellow writer? Stay committed. Make it as good as is humanly possible. And don't allow rejections to put you off. Stay confident, and keep believing in yourself.
72] Describe the ending in three words. Romantic, Positive, Victorious.
75] Was it worth it? You bet it was!!
Monday, 3 January 2011
Editing
Well, the finish post is in sight. My part of the editing process is done. Pretty much anyway. My next move is to send the manuscript to my editor. Once I have followed her corrections that's it, I begin my hunt for a publisher, and that's when the fun begins. I am joking, it's about as much fun as chasing a Greyhound round the race track!
But with God, all things are possible. So, I keep hope and anticipation alive.
I have been busy putting together my proposal, I was dreading it, but thanks to a great book by Terry Burns "A Writers Survival Guide To Getting published." It turned out to be easier than I had anticipated, in fact I quite enjoyed it.
Friday, 15 October 2010
Devon Holiday
Our weeks holiday in Devon was lovely. We were blessed with gorgeous weather, with warm sunshine most days. Branscombe is such a pretty village, very quaint and oldie worldie, most of the houses are thatched.
We have spent many happy holidays in this village, using the holiday house as a base to visit the surrounding coast and countryside.
This time we had some friends staying with us, and we all got on extremely well and enjoyed a brill time together.
It was a holiday complemented by good friends, good food, and wonderful surroundings. Can't be bad.
Thursday, 14 October 2010
I'm quite pleased, my editing is going reasonably well. Okay, I have to send the manuscript to my editor for a final check, but God willing she should find things greatly improved.
Slowly, but surly, I am learning.
English was never one of my better subjects at school. I have all the imagination in the world, but getting it down on paper, so to speak; In a way which is intelligent and readable, is something else entirely. I confess, where grammar is concerned, I am a little dyslexic. So, whether I will ever find myself in a position, where I can safely trust my own editing, is rather doubtful. Sadly, my work may always need some sort of check, as I want it to be as good as it can be, for God, for me, and for my readers.
However, I do have a grip. It seems to me, that publishers and even editors are becoming very pedantic. What ever happened to reading a novel and simply enjoying it. These days a submitted novel has to be word perfect before it even gets a look in. No longer do publishers read a submitted manuscript and think, 'I like this, warts and all, it has potential.'
In all honesty, why employ editors if they are not going to edit. Publishers could save a lot of money by firing them and leave it the author, which in all honesty they do anyway. The whole thing seems crazy to me.
For example J.K. Rowling's first book apparently was not perfect. But the agent saw it's potential, and what potential!! He took a risk and it payed off.
Lets face it, like most things in life, there is no such thing as a perfect book. I have read many books by well known authors and found glaring mistakes that have been missed. I heard on the news recently, that a well known author with one of the larger publishing houses, had to have his books withdrawn due to glaring mistakes, oops!! how expensive is that, money and reputation wise. Again what were the editors doing, not a good job obviously.
Imagine, this author's embarrassment, while doing a public reading he had to stop and apologise to his listeners because of all the mistakes he found in his own work. Poor man, it must have been awful.
Sadly, these days I sit down to read a book and find myself noticing the mistakes in the text. Again I say, what happened to reading a good book and merely enjoying it. Let's face it, half the time our amazing brains ignore the mistakes anyway. Hence the problem that they slip through the net. But does the average reader really care? I don't think so. If they enjoy the book that's all that matters to them. That's what my readers tell me anyway.
I am self published, after struggling to find an agent/publisher and coping with the innumerable rejection letters. However, due to a publisher interest in my second published book, I have tentatively put my toe in the water once again. I totally agreed with her that my book needed work in the grammar department, hence all this editing. But even though she was the one who approached me, I'm still not sure if it's the way I want to go.
Like all of us authors I love to write, and enjoy the freedom and lack of pressure that goes with self publishing. Also, I do believe it will be the major way to go in days to come, with all the new technology available.
Not only that, I'm no longer a youngster and don't feel I can afford the long drawn out process attached to main-stream publishing. I have many books buzzing around in my head, all demanding to be birthed, while there is time.
I want to live each day God has given me to the full and achieve all I can for His glory and praise.
That said, I firmly believe my work must be its very best, before it's held in a readers hands.
So, here we ago again, edit, edit, edit. :)
Slowly, but surly, I am learning.
English was never one of my better subjects at school. I have all the imagination in the world, but getting it down on paper, so to speak; In a way which is intelligent and readable, is something else entirely. I confess, where grammar is concerned, I am a little dyslexic. So, whether I will ever find myself in a position, where I can safely trust my own editing, is rather doubtful. Sadly, my work may always need some sort of check, as I want it to be as good as it can be, for God, for me, and for my readers.
However, I do have a grip. It seems to me, that publishers and even editors are becoming very pedantic. What ever happened to reading a novel and simply enjoying it. These days a submitted novel has to be word perfect before it even gets a look in. No longer do publishers read a submitted manuscript and think, 'I like this, warts and all, it has potential.'
In all honesty, why employ editors if they are not going to edit. Publishers could save a lot of money by firing them and leave it the author, which in all honesty they do anyway. The whole thing seems crazy to me.
For example J.K. Rowling's first book apparently was not perfect. But the agent saw it's potential, and what potential!! He took a risk and it payed off.
Lets face it, like most things in life, there is no such thing as a perfect book. I have read many books by well known authors and found glaring mistakes that have been missed. I heard on the news recently, that a well known author with one of the larger publishing houses, had to have his books withdrawn due to glaring mistakes, oops!! how expensive is that, money and reputation wise. Again what were the editors doing, not a good job obviously.
Imagine, this author's embarrassment, while doing a public reading he had to stop and apologise to his listeners because of all the mistakes he found in his own work. Poor man, it must have been awful.
Sadly, these days I sit down to read a book and find myself noticing the mistakes in the text. Again I say, what happened to reading a good book and merely enjoying it. Let's face it, half the time our amazing brains ignore the mistakes anyway. Hence the problem that they slip through the net. But does the average reader really care? I don't think so. If they enjoy the book that's all that matters to them. That's what my readers tell me anyway.
I am self published, after struggling to find an agent/publisher and coping with the innumerable rejection letters. However, due to a publisher interest in my second published book, I have tentatively put my toe in the water once again. I totally agreed with her that my book needed work in the grammar department, hence all this editing. But even though she was the one who approached me, I'm still not sure if it's the way I want to go.
Like all of us authors I love to write, and enjoy the freedom and lack of pressure that goes with self publishing. Also, I do believe it will be the major way to go in days to come, with all the new technology available.
Not only that, I'm no longer a youngster and don't feel I can afford the long drawn out process attached to main-stream publishing. I have many books buzzing around in my head, all demanding to be birthed, while there is time.
I want to live each day God has given me to the full and achieve all I can for His glory and praise.
That said, I firmly believe my work must be its very best, before it's held in a readers hands.
So, here we ago again, edit, edit, edit. :)
Thursday, 23 September 2010
My hubby and I had a brill weekend in the New Forest. Hubby's brother and wife were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. The Hotel was amazing, the building was old, but full of character. The extensive grounds were beautiful and flowed to the waters edge, we could clearly see the Isle of White.
It was good to meet every one, and in the evening and the food was delicious. It was a long journey to get there, but well worth it. I'm so glad we were able to go and celebrate with them.
Saturday, 11 September 2010
Wednesday, 14 April 2010
I am saddened at the way our beautiful country Great Britain is being handed over to Europe and other dark forces. The country my grandfather and great grandfather fought and died for. And it is being done without a squeak of protest from its indigenous people. It's as if we are all in some sort of induced trance, being led like sheep to the slaughter. Like Gods precious people the Jews in the last war, herded like dumb defenceless cattle to their deaths.
The Trojan horse in standing in the heart of this great nation. In time the evil in its belly will be disgorged to take this nation over and it will done without a shot being fired, through the corrupt political system, using the councils and government.
Islam will succeed where Hitler failed.
Is it Gods will. Is it judgement on a nation which has turned away from its Christian heritage and roots? Yes maybe it is. But I believe the God I serve is also loving and merciful and if we who are Christian pray for our nation. Then I believe God will hear and save us.
The time is coming and is nearly here, when Christians need to stand up for their faith and be counted.
I have nothing against Muslims, I know many just want to get on with their lives. But I do struggle with their beliefs. And as a woman I am right to be concerned, all woman should be concerned.
However, if there is one good thing to come out of all this religious and political upheaval, it is that I am seeking to move ever close to my beloved Abba Father, wherein I will find my peace and safety. Praise His Holy Name.
The Trojan horse in standing in the heart of this great nation. In time the evil in its belly will be disgorged to take this nation over and it will done without a shot being fired, through the corrupt political system, using the councils and government.
Islam will succeed where Hitler failed.
Is it Gods will. Is it judgement on a nation which has turned away from its Christian heritage and roots? Yes maybe it is. But I believe the God I serve is also loving and merciful and if we who are Christian pray for our nation. Then I believe God will hear and save us.
The time is coming and is nearly here, when Christians need to stand up for their faith and be counted.
I have nothing against Muslims, I know many just want to get on with their lives. But I do struggle with their beliefs. And as a woman I am right to be concerned, all woman should be concerned.
However, if there is one good thing to come out of all this religious and political upheaval, it is that I am seeking to move ever close to my beloved Abba Father, wherein I will find my peace and safety. Praise His Holy Name.
Sunday, 21 March 2010
The Making Of A Prophet.
Prophecy is a subject close to my heart. Many times during my Christian walk I have been privileged to hear from God. At times what He said was for my own personal growth. Whereas on other occasions His words were to be shared for the edification of the church.
Do I have a prophetic gifting? Yes I humbly believe I do.
So when I received this paperwork on 'The Making Of A Prophet' written by T . Austin-Sparks
I decided it was well worth sharing. What he says is so true and it is something I have felt strongly about for some time.
Part 1
Prophetic ministry is not something you can take up. It is something that you are. No academy can make you a prophet.
Samuel instituted the school of the prophets.....But there is a great deal of difference between those academic prophets and the living anointed prophets.
The academic prophets became members of a profession and swiftly degenerated into something unworthy. All the false prophets came from schools of prophets and were accepted publicly on that ground. They had been to college and were accepted. But they were false prophets. Going to a religious college does not of itself make you a prophet of God.
My point is this- the identity of the vessel with its ministry is the very heart of Divine thought.
A man is called to represent the thoughts of God, to represent them in what he is, not in something that he takes up as a form or line of ministry, not in something that he does.
The vessel itself is the ministry and you cannot divide between the two.
Do I have a prophetic gifting? Yes I humbly believe I do.
So when I received this paperwork on 'The Making Of A Prophet' written by T . Austin-Sparks
I decided it was well worth sharing. What he says is so true and it is something I have felt strongly about for some time.
Part 1
Prophetic ministry is not something you can take up. It is something that you are. No academy can make you a prophet.
Samuel instituted the school of the prophets.....But there is a great deal of difference between those academic prophets and the living anointed prophets.
The academic prophets became members of a profession and swiftly degenerated into something unworthy. All the false prophets came from schools of prophets and were accepted publicly on that ground. They had been to college and were accepted. But they were false prophets. Going to a religious college does not of itself make you a prophet of God.
My point is this- the identity of the vessel with its ministry is the very heart of Divine thought.
A man is called to represent the thoughts of God, to represent them in what he is, not in something that he takes up as a form or line of ministry, not in something that he does.
The vessel itself is the ministry and you cannot divide between the two.
Monday, 15 February 2010
A Tragic Vision
Once a week my mother and I would pray together. During one of these prayer times God gave me a powerful vision.
If you have ever watched something like a royal wedding you will know there is always a commentator who explains what is happening, who every one is, what they are wearing and so on.
Well this is what it was like for me, I was the commentator speaking out the vision as it happened and it was not easy as I was overcome with Godly sorrow. I had to try and explain what I was seeing through my tears, it was so hard.
My mother was was as distressed as myself. Afterwards she told me that as I was speaking she could see and feel as I did.
This is what I saw and I really believe it is a vision for the days we are in now, it has never left
me.
I was at the back of a huge glorious cathedral with a fair sized congregation sitting in the pews, their eyes glued to the front of the church.
At the alter there were three priests dressed in sumptuous clothes with mitres on their heads, waving incense around. However, like the congregation I only saw their backs.
On the right hand side of the building was a small wooden door. It opened and a man dressed in sack cloth entered. Instantly I knew it was Jesus.
Slowly He began to walk up and down every pew, tearfully calling each person to follow Him, it broke my heart as I watched. Most ignored Him their faces frozen, their eyes glued to the front of the church, their only interest the three priests ministering at the alter.
By the time Jesus had walked up and down all the pews, He was at the back of the church with just a handful of people who had followed Him.
I watched as He walked slowly down the centre isle followed by the few who had responded to His call. He turned right towards the small door He had entered through. As His hand reached out to open it, instantly His appearance changed. Gone the humble sack cloth. Now He was glorious and awesome, shinning with holy splendour. By this time I was struggling to keep going, I was in bits as I tried to explain what I was seeing.
Jesus left the building followed by His little flock and the door closed.
I then looked to the front of the church, the three priests turned around and faced the remaining congregation, and to my horror, it really did shock me, all three priests where skeletons.
I then found myself looking down on the church from the outside and I could see it was not a glorious building at all, but a ruin, It had no roof, the windows were broken, and everyone in it was dead.
It is a vision that will never leave me, and I feel it is a warning to us all. God is calling His true followers out, calling them to follow Him. The Christian walk is not about religiosity, tradition and ceremony. It is about Love, Truth and the Lordship of Jesus Christ and our relationship with Him.
The Bible speaks of remnants, let us all pray that as we seek Him and stay close to Him, we will be a part of that remnant.
If you have ever watched something like a royal wedding you will know there is always a commentator who explains what is happening, who every one is, what they are wearing and so on.
Well this is what it was like for me, I was the commentator speaking out the vision as it happened and it was not easy as I was overcome with Godly sorrow. I had to try and explain what I was seeing through my tears, it was so hard.
My mother was was as distressed as myself. Afterwards she told me that as I was speaking she could see and feel as I did.
This is what I saw and I really believe it is a vision for the days we are in now, it has never left
me.
I was at the back of a huge glorious cathedral with a fair sized congregation sitting in the pews, their eyes glued to the front of the church.
At the alter there were three priests dressed in sumptuous clothes with mitres on their heads, waving incense around. However, like the congregation I only saw their backs.
On the right hand side of the building was a small wooden door. It opened and a man dressed in sack cloth entered. Instantly I knew it was Jesus.
Slowly He began to walk up and down every pew, tearfully calling each person to follow Him, it broke my heart as I watched. Most ignored Him their faces frozen, their eyes glued to the front of the church, their only interest the three priests ministering at the alter.
By the time Jesus had walked up and down all the pews, He was at the back of the church with just a handful of people who had followed Him.
I watched as He walked slowly down the centre isle followed by the few who had responded to His call. He turned right towards the small door He had entered through. As His hand reached out to open it, instantly His appearance changed. Gone the humble sack cloth. Now He was glorious and awesome, shinning with holy splendour. By this time I was struggling to keep going, I was in bits as I tried to explain what I was seeing.
Jesus left the building followed by His little flock and the door closed.
I then looked to the front of the church, the three priests turned around and faced the remaining congregation, and to my horror, it really did shock me, all three priests where skeletons.
I then found myself looking down on the church from the outside and I could see it was not a glorious building at all, but a ruin, It had no roof, the windows were broken, and everyone in it was dead.
It is a vision that will never leave me, and I feel it is a warning to us all. God is calling His true followers out, calling them to follow Him. The Christian walk is not about religiosity, tradition and ceremony. It is about Love, Truth and the Lordship of Jesus Christ and our relationship with Him.
The Bible speaks of remnants, let us all pray that as we seek Him and stay close to Him, we will be a part of that remnant.
Saturday, 16 January 2010
Christmas snow
I can't remember the last time we had snow over Christmas, and it was serious snow too. We have had light smatterings over the years but nothing this heavy.
Every where looked so pretty. Our barren and rather dull garden, was transformed into a winter wonderland.
Granted it is a bind trying to get about, but still I like it.
I found the birds very amusing too. Our little feathered friends are brighter than we realise.
The bird bath was frozen solid so they had no water to drink, but that didn't bother them. They tucked into the food I put out, and washed it down with a mouthful of snow, bright or what?
It lasted nearly two weeks, but now it's gone washed away by the rain.
At least now we can get around without skidding all over the road, I suppose that's a positive.
Maybe it will return, who knows? it's cold enough. At least I have my photos to remind me.
Due to the white stuff, Christmas 2009 will not be easily forgotten. Not least for the traffic chaos it caused.
Why does Britain come to a standstill when a little snow falls ? Ah well, at least we give the country's used to heavy snow fall a good laugh.
Monday, 30 November 2009
Patience
Just lately God is showing me that though I have improved, I still suffer from a severe lack of patience. He has reminded me of the vision I had when I was a young Christian, which I will share. However first I need to remind myself and any who read, this just how important patience is to our spiritual lives and walk with God.
The word Patience biblicaly means=Endurance, Consistency, Forbearance, Long Suffering.
Patience is that calm and unruffled temper with which the good man bears the evils of life from what ever source they come.
It manifests itself in a sweet submission to the providential appointments of God, and fortitude in the presence of the duties and conflicts of life.
God of patience means that God is the author of patience in His servants Rom 15:5.
Patience is one of Gods many attributes and as such it should be something I strive for also, and believe me I do. I am His servant and made in His image, so I should reflect Him in my life. But as I said earlier, patience in its fullness has been sadly lacking in my life. Even as a child I was always way ahead of myself. If it didn't happen yesterday I wanted to know why, and there would be tantrums and tears. But when I became an adult that lack of Patience and impetuosity threw me into periods of frustrated anger and depression.
Okay, I am far more patient than I used to be, nevertheless it is an ongoing battle and one I sadly lose more often than I win.
Patience is of paramount importance to God, and we need to desire it, as we desire Him. He knows that without it we will rush into things, that are not His will or desire for our lives, and so find ourselves in all sorts of trouble. Whereas if we had waited patiently, and trusted Him, we would find ourselves in the place of rest, which is His plan and purpose for our lives.
I dread to think how often in my Christian life I have preempted God and because of that damaged and hindered my walk with Him. Our lives are short on this earth, and if we are going to fulfill the plan and purpose He has for us, then we need to be patient, trust Him and allow Him to lead us, knowing that His way is perfect and He will give us clear direction.
If we wait patiently before Him and allow Him the opportunity to speak into our lives, we will find the fulfillment we all seek.
I am so grateful that in my life, He has been a God of patience and mercy.
In Nov 1981 I became a christian and it was the most wonderful day of my life.
All questioning and searching was over and I was madly in love. For the first time in my life that word love had real meaning. Everything was perfect, and all I wanted to do, was go to be with the one who had changed my sorry and sad existence, so amazingly. I would cry and pester God constantly, my impatience knew no bounds. I had an expression I used, and believe me I meant it. "My bags are packed and I want to go home," how selfish and in a way arrogant.
But you have to understand, my life before meeting Jesus had been an unhappy mess. So when I realised He was alive, all I wanted to do, I guess like every other Christian before me, was to opt out of this world and go to be with the one I loved. And being young in my faith and naive, I could not understand why He ignored my request.
But I am not one who gives up easily, and even though I have had to remain here to grow spiritually and do the work God has planned for me. I believe that my constant pestering allowed me a vision that I have never forgotten. It was a spiritual and not a physical vision, but it was powerful, and enabled me to understand what God is trying to do in my life, and why going to heaven was not an option at that time.
As with all Gods children I will go when my work on this earth is finished, and only God knows when that will be.
This is the vision as I remember it. I had been a christian just a few months and was attending the morning service at church. During the meeting I was overcome by the presence of God and helped to the front of the church where I knelt alone at the alter rail.
God was heavy upon me and I leaned my arms on the rail, my eyes tightly closed. I had no idea what was going on I just knew I should wait. In front of me slightly to the left was a raised pulpit of dark wood, as I knelt there a glorious form appeared to come out of it. At first what I saw spiritually was a bright light out of which came the shape of a man, it was Jesus.
He stood in front of the pulpit, He was amazingly tall, He held His arms out slightly to the side, his palms towards me.
He was enveloped in a golden light and yet I saw Him quite clearly. He was dressed in a white gown with a pale blue gown over it, the garments shimmered. He was glorious the light coming from Him was so bright that in His presence it became harder and harder to breath. I reached for Him quite sure I was going to die and go with Him.
He was looking at me with such love, and at the time I was convinced that I saw His face, but I didn't, only spirit to spirit.
His love radiated over me like waves, each wave stronger than the last, it was the most wonderful and intense feeling, but so powerful my body was struggling to cope. And I became convinced He had come to fetch me.
Nothing else existed it was as though I was in another world, the silence was almost tangible and yet the church was still going on around me.
As I knelt there in His wonderful presence He spoke, just one word, but that word was soaked in His love. Rather like coating a nasty tasting pill with honey, so that the child will take it, and that word was, "PATIENCE"
Once the word had left His mouth He disappeared, much to my distress. But the joy and privilege of being in His presence has never left me. Even though in a way I suppose He was rebuking me, while trying to help me understand just how important Patience is.
I am still trying to get to grips with it, some times succeeding, some times not.
But one thing I do know I serve an Awesome, Merciful and Gracious God, and He has promised, He will never leave me, or forsake me. And I love Him.
I will finish with one of my favorite scriptures. Isiah 40:31, 'They that wait upon the Lord, shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles. They shall run and not grow weary they shall walk and not faint.'
Teach me Lord I pray to be patient and wait. That I may find your good and perfect will for my life, and that you would be glorified.
Amen
The word Patience biblicaly means=Endurance, Consistency, Forbearance, Long Suffering.
Patience is that calm and unruffled temper with which the good man bears the evils of life from what ever source they come.
It manifests itself in a sweet submission to the providential appointments of God, and fortitude in the presence of the duties and conflicts of life.
God of patience means that God is the author of patience in His servants Rom 15:5.
Patience is one of Gods many attributes and as such it should be something I strive for also, and believe me I do. I am His servant and made in His image, so I should reflect Him in my life. But as I said earlier, patience in its fullness has been sadly lacking in my life. Even as a child I was always way ahead of myself. If it didn't happen yesterday I wanted to know why, and there would be tantrums and tears. But when I became an adult that lack of Patience and impetuosity threw me into periods of frustrated anger and depression.
Okay, I am far more patient than I used to be, nevertheless it is an ongoing battle and one I sadly lose more often than I win.
Patience is of paramount importance to God, and we need to desire it, as we desire Him. He knows that without it we will rush into things, that are not His will or desire for our lives, and so find ourselves in all sorts of trouble. Whereas if we had waited patiently, and trusted Him, we would find ourselves in the place of rest, which is His plan and purpose for our lives.
I dread to think how often in my Christian life I have preempted God and because of that damaged and hindered my walk with Him. Our lives are short on this earth, and if we are going to fulfill the plan and purpose He has for us, then we need to be patient, trust Him and allow Him to lead us, knowing that His way is perfect and He will give us clear direction.
If we wait patiently before Him and allow Him the opportunity to speak into our lives, we will find the fulfillment we all seek.
I am so grateful that in my life, He has been a God of patience and mercy.
In Nov 1981 I became a christian and it was the most wonderful day of my life.
All questioning and searching was over and I was madly in love. For the first time in my life that word love had real meaning. Everything was perfect, and all I wanted to do, was go to be with the one who had changed my sorry and sad existence, so amazingly. I would cry and pester God constantly, my impatience knew no bounds. I had an expression I used, and believe me I meant it. "My bags are packed and I want to go home," how selfish and in a way arrogant.
But you have to understand, my life before meeting Jesus had been an unhappy mess. So when I realised He was alive, all I wanted to do, I guess like every other Christian before me, was to opt out of this world and go to be with the one I loved. And being young in my faith and naive, I could not understand why He ignored my request.
But I am not one who gives up easily, and even though I have had to remain here to grow spiritually and do the work God has planned for me. I believe that my constant pestering allowed me a vision that I have never forgotten. It was a spiritual and not a physical vision, but it was powerful, and enabled me to understand what God is trying to do in my life, and why going to heaven was not an option at that time.
As with all Gods children I will go when my work on this earth is finished, and only God knows when that will be.
This is the vision as I remember it. I had been a christian just a few months and was attending the morning service at church. During the meeting I was overcome by the presence of God and helped to the front of the church where I knelt alone at the alter rail.
God was heavy upon me and I leaned my arms on the rail, my eyes tightly closed. I had no idea what was going on I just knew I should wait. In front of me slightly to the left was a raised pulpit of dark wood, as I knelt there a glorious form appeared to come out of it. At first what I saw spiritually was a bright light out of which came the shape of a man, it was Jesus.
He stood in front of the pulpit, He was amazingly tall, He held His arms out slightly to the side, his palms towards me.
He was enveloped in a golden light and yet I saw Him quite clearly. He was dressed in a white gown with a pale blue gown over it, the garments shimmered. He was glorious the light coming from Him was so bright that in His presence it became harder and harder to breath. I reached for Him quite sure I was going to die and go with Him.
He was looking at me with such love, and at the time I was convinced that I saw His face, but I didn't, only spirit to spirit.
His love radiated over me like waves, each wave stronger than the last, it was the most wonderful and intense feeling, but so powerful my body was struggling to cope. And I became convinced He had come to fetch me.
Nothing else existed it was as though I was in another world, the silence was almost tangible and yet the church was still going on around me.
As I knelt there in His wonderful presence He spoke, just one word, but that word was soaked in His love. Rather like coating a nasty tasting pill with honey, so that the child will take it, and that word was, "PATIENCE"
Once the word had left His mouth He disappeared, much to my distress. But the joy and privilege of being in His presence has never left me. Even though in a way I suppose He was rebuking me, while trying to help me understand just how important Patience is.
I am still trying to get to grips with it, some times succeeding, some times not.
But one thing I do know I serve an Awesome, Merciful and Gracious God, and He has promised, He will never leave me, or forsake me. And I love Him.
I will finish with one of my favorite scriptures. Isiah 40:31, 'They that wait upon the Lord, shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles. They shall run and not grow weary they shall walk and not faint.'
Teach me Lord I pray to be patient and wait. That I may find your good and perfect will for my life, and that you would be glorified.
Amen
Friday, 27 November 2009
I Did It. 50,000 words in a month.
Taking part in Nanowrimo has been the most amazing experience. The sense of freedom was liberating, not having to worry about spelling and grammar, but just letting the story flow was an incredible experience. I enjoyed it so much I think I may choose to continue to write this way.
Having achieved the 50,000 words I shall continue with the novel and when it is finished, tidy it up and edit, edit, edit.
To be a winner is wonderful, a real confidence boost. That's not to say I found it easy, there was an element of pressure that I found tiring, but at the same time it drove me on. I was surprised at how much I wanted to win.
I am well aware that having a definite story line was a huge advantage, at least I had some idea where I was headed. I know without it I would have struggled, and dare I say I might even have given up, but I didn't and I am so glad.
Now I can look forward to the day my Nano novel 'The Crystal Rose' is completed and published.
Tuesday, 27 October 2009
To be reviewed, or not to be reviewed. That is the question.
Why would someone ask people to submit their books for a free review, and then not give each book the time it deserves.
If the person is not going to give their full attention to a book why bother in the first place? Or if they find themselves inundated with books from authors keen to have our work reviewed. Why not just get in touch with the authors and explain that there are a lot of books to read, and so it will take longer than expected.
I would rather that, than read a review of my book that is at worst inept and at best moderately encouraging.
To me it was blatantly obvious that the reviewer did not read the book properly. In fact they admitted at the time, they were trying to read and review two books at the same time. Personally I don't think that was fare to either the books or the authors. We invest a lot of time and love into our writing.
Am I annoyed? you bet I am. I honestly don't expect everyone who reads my books to like them. But I do hope they will actually read and review them fairly.
Is this reviewer saying that they are right and that every other readers positive review is wrong, I don't think so.
One conciliation I suppose, is that all reviews whether good or bad, can be helpful. Because in many cases people will buy the book just to see if they agree with the bad review. I know myself if a new film is slated by the critiques I will go and see it anyway. And more often than not I love it, and I find most of my friends are much the same.
Those who review aren't always right, after all it is just their personal opinion. And thank goodness they don't always have the last word.
If the person is not going to give their full attention to a book why bother in the first place? Or if they find themselves inundated with books from authors keen to have our work reviewed. Why not just get in touch with the authors and explain that there are a lot of books to read, and so it will take longer than expected.
I would rather that, than read a review of my book that is at worst inept and at best moderately encouraging.
To me it was blatantly obvious that the reviewer did not read the book properly. In fact they admitted at the time, they were trying to read and review two books at the same time. Personally I don't think that was fare to either the books or the authors. We invest a lot of time and love into our writing.
Am I annoyed? you bet I am. I honestly don't expect everyone who reads my books to like them. But I do hope they will actually read and review them fairly.
Is this reviewer saying that they are right and that every other readers positive review is wrong, I don't think so.
One conciliation I suppose, is that all reviews whether good or bad, can be helpful. Because in many cases people will buy the book just to see if they agree with the bad review. I know myself if a new film is slated by the critiques I will go and see it anyway. And more often than not I love it, and I find most of my friends are much the same.
Those who review aren't always right, after all it is just their personal opinion. And thank goodness they don't always have the last word.
Monday, 5 October 2009
Kindness and Trust
Sometimes people we meet can be so kind. I have already mentioned our holiday visit to the exquisite village of Boughten-on the-Water. As we walked around enjoying ourselves, we came across a small christian bookshop. So we went in and had a look around.
I have had some book marks made, to promote my new book 'Valley of Shadows.' I try to make sure I always have some on me to give away. So I went to the lady who ran the shop and offered her a couple, she was delighted and very interested. We had a long chat, I told her about my books and she asked me to send her a copy of them both.
She will read them and then have some from me to sell and promote them for me.
As we were talking she told me about a writer she felt I would like and gave me a copy of the book. I offered to pay for it but she insisted I take it, trusting that I would send my books to her, which I most certainly will.
I was quite overcome by her kindness and trust, it's the sort of experience that restores ones faith in human nature. I don't believe in coincidences, this was a Divine appointment and a day I shall not forget and who knows what may come it?
I have had some book marks made, to promote my new book 'Valley of Shadows.' I try to make sure I always have some on me to give away. So I went to the lady who ran the shop and offered her a couple, she was delighted and very interested. We had a long chat, I told her about my books and she asked me to send her a copy of them both.
She will read them and then have some from me to sell and promote them for me.
As we were talking she told me about a writer she felt I would like and gave me a copy of the book. I offered to pay for it but she insisted I take it, trusting that I would send my books to her, which I most certainly will.
I was quite overcome by her kindness and trust, it's the sort of experience that restores ones faith in human nature. I don't believe in coincidences, this was a Divine appointment and a day I shall not forget and who knows what may come it?
Model Village
While we were on holiday we visited a very pretty village called Boughten-on-the-Water in Gloucestershire.
They have a model village which is a replica of the real place, it was very good. I love model villages, I like to imagine there are tiny people living in the houses and perhaps coming out at night when all the visitors have gone. Okay so I have a vivid imagination !
Anyway here are some photos in case any one is interested.
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