Depression

It seems that everyone I talk to has at least a twinge of depression. Good people who have spent their lives working hard and investing in their church and families - now have a feeling of pending doom. They are worried that the possibility of "the good life" may be a thing of the past. They worry that we will be in the same place our founding fathers were when religious persecution was commonplace and taxation would ruin any chances of success.

I've felt those twinges myself, but I have good news.

God does not forsake his children. Repeat that over at least a dozen times today. God does not forsake his children. We may have to suffer because we've looked the other way when non-Christians picked at our religious freedoms. We may have to suffer because we sent crooks and immoral people to Washington. But...even in our suffering there will be miracles and hope and love.

I like the movie Apollo 13. There's a scene in the movie that has given me so much hope in the last few weeks. When NASA finally understands that Apollo 13 is in trouble and that it will be a miracle for them to return safely, two guys in the control room begin mumblings. One says to the other, "This could be our worst failure".

Gene Kranz, NASA flight Director, (played by Ed Harris) turns to them and with great authority says..."Gentleman, I believe this will be our finest hour!"

I have prayed about America's current situation and I do see some difficult times coming. But if we all band together and if we continue to look to God and search for solutions.....

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I believe this will be our finest hour!"

I believe that God will give us solutions we could not imagine and that he will protect and guide us every step of the way. Let's pray today that God will begin his work is us. That he will help us to be strong Christians. That we will take up the sword and continue the battle for good and for God.

God loves you,

Debbie

Tree of HOPE

There's a tree in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma that attracks tourists. It isn't an especially unique tree. It isn't overly full or tremendously large. But everyone loves this tree. People pose for pictures with the tree. Some people cry beneath it and still others walk away with a renewed strength. How can one simple tree strike such a cord within so many diverse people?

I went to Wikipedia to read the entire story.

The Survivor Tree: An American elm on the north side of the Oklahoma City National Memorial, (Oklahoma City Bombing) this tree was the only shade tree in the parking lot across the street from the Murrah Building, and commuters came in to work early to get one of the shady parking spots provided by its branches. Photos of Oklahoma City taken around the time of statehood (1907) show this tree, meaning it is currently at least 102 years old. Despite its age, the tree was neglected and taken for granted prior to the blast. Heavily damaged by the bomb, the Tree ultimately survived after nearly being chopped down during the initial investigation, in order to recover evidence hanging in its branches and embedded in its bark.

The force of the blast ripped most of the branches from the Survivor Tree, glass and debris were embedded in its trunk and fire from the cars parked beneath it blackened what was left of the tree. Most thought the tree could not survive. However, almost a year after the bombing, family members, survivors and rescue workers gathered for a memorial ceremony under the tree and noticed it was beginning to bloom again. In that instant the tree became a symbol of what the city had come through.

Like the tree, the city had been bent and bowed but it had not been broken. The tree and the city survived. The Survivor Tree now thrives, in no small part because the specifications for the Outdoor Memorial design included a mandate to feature and protect the Tree. One example of the dramatic measures taken to save the Tree: one of the roots that would have been cut by the wall surrounding the Tree was placed inside a large pipe, so it could reach the soil beyond the wall without being damaged. A second example is the decking around the Tree, which is raised several feet to make an underground crawlspace; workers enter through a secure hatchway and monitor the health of the Tree and maintain its very deep roots.

The inscription around the inside of the deck wall around the Survivor Tree reads:
The spirit of this city and this nation will not be defeated; our deeply rooted faith sustains us.

Hundreds of seeds from the Survivor Tree are planted annually and the resulting saplings are distributed each year on the anniversary of the bombing. Thousands of Survivor Trees are growing today in public and private places all over the United States; saplings were sent to Columbine High School after the massacre there, to New York City mayor Rudolph Giuliani after the September 11, 2001 attacks, the Virginia Tech massacre in 2007, and various other times.

Why have I given you so much information about this tree? Hope!

Yes, things are crazy in our country right now. Yes, it's easy to get discouraged or to feel hopeless. Yes, the future doesn't have the same bright sunshine as it once did...

But... I AM CONFIDENT THAT WE WILL SURVIVE. I am confident that like this tree we will take the circumstances we are given and we will continue to bloom!

Have hope. Pray. Love God. Love your children. We will survive!

God loves you,

Debbie

How much??? Are you sure this is stimulus....

Ron is going to try to go back to work tomorrow. It will be difficult because he's still on crutches and must keep his leg elevated. Thank you for your prayers and all your wonderful cards.

Ron is trying to enjoy his last few hours here at home. He sent me an e-mail that I couldn't resist posting. Sounds pretty much like the real thing to me.....

The Stimulus Plan

Three contractors are bidding to fix a broken fence at the White House. One is from Chicago, another is from Tennessee, and the third is from Minnesota. All three go with a White House official to examine the fence.

The Minnesota contractor takes out a tape measure and does some measuring, then works some figures with a pencil. "Well," he says, "I figure the job will run about $900: $400 for materials, $400 for my crew and $100 profit for me."

The Tennessee contractor also does some measuring and figuring, then says, "I can do this job for $700: $300 for materials, $300 for my crew and $100 profit for me."

The Chicago contractor doesn't measure or figure, but leans over to the White House official and whispers, "$2,700."

The official, incredulous, says, "You didn't even measure like the other guys! How did you come up with such a high figure?"

The Chicago contractor whispers back, "$1000 for me, $1000 for you, and we hire the guy from Tennessee to fix the fence."

"Done!" Replies the government official.

And that, my friends, is how the new stimulus plan will work.

All kidding aside, does anyone else see the huge major problems we are sailing into? Where's all the critics that were hounding Bush? Where's all the reporters that want to tell the "entire" story? There's mounds and mounds of dirt laying all around and these simple minded liberal reporters are refusing to investigate.

I think Washington Dems have gone wild with power. They are like kids in a candy store and to find their favorite piece they are tearing down the displays.

Mr. Obama doesn't seem to have a clue. He just likes to ride on Air Force One - wasting thousands of our much needed money while insisting we should all go green. Do we really have a president or is it just a free for all?

I still believe God is going to help the "faithful" Christian to survive - but boy what a wild ride it's gonna be!

What do you think?

God loves you,

Debbie

Is someone lying to your children?

1. Write your congressman.
2. Call your Senator.
3. Spend 15-30 minutes a day searching the web.
4. Prepare financially.
5. Make a mental note of how you can change your life if necessary.
6. Turn off mindless liberal Television and talk to your children. Find out the liberal bias that's being fed to your children.
7. Be pro-active. Do not stick your head in the sand.

Why? You are being lied to. Simple as that.

What? Yep. It's been going on for a long time. Liberal non-Christian media has been telling your children that it's okay to sleep around. They have painted the drug addict, slut, liar, thief, murderer, foolish idiot, homosexual and angry activist as normal and actually "good".

Larry Schweikart - professor of history at the University of Dayton and author of over 20 books - has written a new book entitled 48 Liberal lies about American history. Parents are always asking, "Why? Why doesn't my child love America like I do? Why does he get so angry with the church, the government? Why is my child so liberal when I'm so conservative?" Could it be what they are being taught in school?

Larry Schweikart states," with issue after issue - the Great Depression, slavery, WWI, the Far West, the Regan years - modern textbooks are obvious in their leftward slant that America is a racist, sexist, imperialist regime."

This is a huge piece of the puzzle as to why our children do not accept our conservative or religious views. If they are being bombarded with false information during 12 years of school - it will make a difference in what they believe.

Most of the media and liberals all represent this trend. There's an atmosphere of in your face lying and deceit. I can't believe how many people can twist and turn the truth in order to stay in power or keep their "candidate" in good standing.

AS AMERICA LOSES THE ABILITY TO QUESTION RIGHT FROM WRONG OR TO HIGHLIGHT ISSUES OF TRUTH......WE WILL LOSE OUR FREEDOM!

What is the difference between a country of freedom and a country of oppression?

Freedom of speech.

When you are not allowed to speak out against the wrongs in the political system or if you are denied access to damaging information - you will lose your freedom!

And the worst....is when a political entity tries to suppress, destroy or change truth because it makes them look bad.

Want an example? Mr. Obama refuses to step up to the plate and be a man of honor. It's much easier to blame his troubles on someone else. "My Administration inherited this economy. We are in this mess because of Bush failed policies."

When President Bush left office he made the comment...."I'm not going to sit around and whine, 'Oh poor me. Why did 911 and hurricanes and this or that happen to me?' I simply tried to understand the problems that I had to deal with and I did my best to fix them."

Want proof that Obama and liberal spending democrats are lying to you?

This video has been removed from American You Tube. However, my uncle was able to find it on Canadian You Tube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMnSp4qEXNM&NR=1

But Debbie, that's also in the past. So what if Obama is still blaming Bush. Why do I need to be concerned?

This goes back to problems with lies in textbooks. If we aren't allowed to challenge where the problem originated....we probably won't be able to fix it. And....our children will not be open to accepting help from the right sources because they have believed a lie. Most problems in society must be fix - starting at the root. If the real root of our financial crisis begins with corrupt democrats....how will we ever find a solution with corruption still driving the car?

How do we find out what politicians are doing to change our lives and the lives of our children?

The Paper, the news, and the Internet.

Right. But what if the government decides that "religious or right wing" is no longer acceptable? What if the government decides that they should control what you are able to read, listen to or research? Will you ever know the truth again? If they can control your thoughts by removing negative information about their lives - and if they can control your child's thoughts by teaching them at a young age to accept liberalism - and if they can take every good act by religion or right wing talk shows and twist it to sound improper - perhaps....perhaps....they can control our nation.

I encourage you to listen (if you don't already) to Fox News - especially the cable version. They are fair and balanced. Pay attention to the interviews that deal with the Fairness Doctrine. Obama and the Democrats are poised to rush this "truth bashing" bill through congress.

Most importantly.....join me in prayer. All of our current problems need God's people to pray. We need wisdom to fight the onslaught of lies. We need encouragement to continue fighting the battle. We need God's hand on our lives.

Trust God. He will protect his people. Rest in the fact that He loves you. Join me in praying that He will lead this nation back to Freedom.

God loves you,

Debbie

Golden Families still exist

Some people think that a family is just a place to be fed while growing up.

Some people think that a family is just an organization to appeal to for money.

Some people think that Moms and Dads receive some type of drug once their firstborn turns 5. This drug turns them into idiots and selfish manipulators.

Some people think that families breed abuse and should be done away with.

Some people just don't think.

Then there are other people who fall in love, get married first and then begin to plan for a family. These people design their homes around love, proper self-esteem and gracious living. They teach their children the value of good music, good books, education, church and manners. They promote mutual respect among all family members and teach them to work together for a common goal. They are a tight knit little bunch and rally to the needs of others within the group. They work together as a team and live in harmony.

Hum....does that exist? Yep. It sure does. But...you will need God's help and his philosophies to accomplish it. Sit back and enjoy the fruits of the Collingsworth Family.



God loves you,

Debbie

Please pray for two great soldiers

Ken and Maggie Crocker have served God faithfully for over 62 years.

Ken has been a missionary pilot, a pastor, owned several businesses and built three churches. He has a doctorate from Beulah Heights Seminary and has traveled around the world on missionary trips. He scheduled and arranged medical missionary trips to Peru, had a radio program on one of the biggest stations in Atlanta and has done countless television programs. He is a published author and his writings have blessed thousands.

Maggie became an evangelist when she was only 8 years old. She traveled all over East and Southern America. She is most famous for her songs. She's written 25 songs and one of them has gone international. I Don't Need to Understand has blessed millions and is still relevant today.

Will you please pray for these two warriors. Ken is 76 and Maggie is 80. They have multiple physical problems and yet they continue to help people wherever they go. They need God's comfort and his help with several problems. They are hurting and your prayers and support will help.

It's important that our generation stop and look at the warriors who paved the way before us. We are to lend a helping hand and make their last fights as easy as possible. We are to make sure that we have not run past any of those soldiers. God will not bless us if we don't take the time to pray and love other soldiers who have worked so hard for the kingdom of God.

I have a special reason for praying for these wonderful people. They are my parents and my heritage. Anything I will ever become is directly related to the care and love they gave me as I grew. God bless you Dr. Ken Crocker and Maggie Crocker.

I encourage you to check out their website http://www.pastorken.com/

God loves you,

Debbie

Oh be careful little eyes what you see....

In his book, Imagine! A God-Blessed America - How it could happen and What it would look like, Richard Land makes this comment:

"Newsweek Magazine recently ran a cover story on the current generation's family crisis: parents are finding it increasingly difficult to set limits for their children in a culture obsessed with buying and consuming things - and saturated with target marketing at children from corporations intent on building brand loyalty from "cradle to grave." Do you want to be a change agent? Take a stand by parenting your kids proactively."

I believe that good parents take charge of their young child's life. Small children simply do not have the experience or knowledge to run their lives. It's ridiculous to think that a 7 year old knows enough about his growing body to determine if he's gay. It's also ludicrous to assume a 9 year old has enough knowledge to determine when a friend isn't good company or how to overcome a bully. Children also don't understand that their brain is much the same as a computer - with one disastrous flaw - there's no delete button. Whatever goes into the brain stays there.

Parents MUST be active in their child's life. We must make sure that we protect the precious little brain that controls that precious little life. If you don't, when they are teens all that bad programming will come spewing out!

You can do this AND build a wonderful relationship. It's not about being negative or setting boundaries that strip your relationship. It's about understanding your child and how to help them see TRUTH. Not sure you agree? Order my book, Discipline Exposed. In it I teach you how to have an impact on your child's life while building a strong relationship that will grow into their adult lives.

While reading his book, I found myself humming an old tune:

"Oh be careful little eyes what you see,
Oh be careful little eyes what you see,
For the Father up above is looking down in love
So be careful little eyes what you see."

Richard Land goes on to encourage parents to make sure they are teaching the following lessons:
1. Teach kids self-sufficiency.
2. Teach self-control.
3. Spend quality AND quantity time with your children.
4. Model healthy choices about buying and consuming things.
5. Assign chores and teach a strong work ethic.
6. Set clear, firm boundaries.
7. Give your child a faith.

Good Advice Richard. I recommend his book. I'm sure you'll enjoy what he has to say.

God loves you,

Debbie

The government realizes the power of parenting....do you?

The following update is why parents are no longer afforded the luxury of staying out of government issues. Hillary Clinton (wasn't she hired to handle foreign affairs?) is putting together an amendment that will limit your rights in raising your child. Even if you can't help with the 10/2, you must stay informed about this law and the effects on your parenting goals. By electing Mr. Obama this country has opened the door to a tidal wave of destructive liberalism and anti-christian campaigns.

If you want to raise your child to be a Christian and or simply to be of moral character - you will face new challenges. The government is poised to tell you when you can discipline, what can be said in church and what "type" of beliefs your child will be taught to accept. We must unite and we must pay attention to the community and governmental influences our children will have to navigate. This is a very important example of their attacks. If they can limit our rights as parents - they can change the direction of your child's life.

Parental rights focus of amendment push
Pete Chagnon - OneNewsNow - 2/9/2009 6:00:00 AM

ParentalRights.org has launched a campaign to amend the U.S. Constitution to protect -- you guessed it -- parental rights.

It is believed that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will soon recommend that the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child Treaty be incorporated into U.S. law.

Jim Bently, executive director of ParentalRights.org, describes the treaty as an assault on parental rights -- and that is why his organization is launching a campaign aimed at amending the U.S. Constitution in order to protect parental rights. Bently says a large grassroots effort will be needed to accomplish the task. "So we designed what we call a '10 and 2' program," he shares. "Rather than just sending out the typical list of petitions, we're going to ask people to sign up as a 10-and-2 rep."

As a "10-and-2 rep," one will be asked to get 10 petition signatures, get three post cards signed -- one for their congressman and one for each state senator -- letting them know that someone has signed in favor of the amendment. Reps will also ask for a $1 donation from every person signing the petition, and then recruit two more people to start the process all over again. "It was designed for simplicity," says Bently. "It was designed as a way that people could look at it and say, wow, this is not an open-ended type of commitment, [but] this is a very specific thing that I can do."

According to the family advocate, the time commitment is minimal. "We expect it to take the average person two to four hours," he states. More information on the "10-and-2 Campaign" and the Parental Rights Amendment can be found at ParentalRights.org. In the history of the Constitution only 27 amendments have been ratified.

Dear Heavenly Father, please help us.

God loves you,

Debbie

Amazed and Speechless

Have you ever watched a movie and when it was over you couldn't move? You sat with your mouth open staring at the screen and waiting for your heart and head to catch up with the fact that the action had faded to black.

No, I wasn't watching some mindless parade of shoot 'em up, blow 'em up. Neither was I watching dummies try and find each other in a side show of how stupid people mate.

Last night Ron and I had the great privilege of watching "Gifted Hands" starring Cuba Gooding, Jr. We were excited about this movie because we both read Ben Carson and Cecil Murphey's book, Gifted Hands as well as Think Big. I bought Take the Risk, but haven't had time to read it.
If you are struggling with a child who can't see the importance of education - this is the movie to watch. Ben Carson was failing at school and because of his mother, he not only wins a scholarship to college - but he goes on to become one of the most celebrated neuro-surgeons in the world. His journey will help your child see that education can take you places.

If you are depressed and wondering if your role as parent is important to the larger world view, this movie is for you. Without the strength and resolve of his mother, Ben Carson would never have save the lives of countless children. Imagine the pride his mother felt while watching Ben accept the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

If you worry that the faith you love may not come to fruition in your child - God can speak to you through this film. Ben's courage and desire to call on God during his most trying times will encourage any parent to continue praying for their child.

If your child is taunted and picked on at school. If he's embarrassed, harassed, or feels like he's too dumb to learn - this movie is for both of you.

This movie is a real life example of hard work, education and strength. It's an example of the miraculous found in the daily lives of God's people. It will encourage you, give you hope and when your brain finally accepts the black screen - this movie will leave you with a determination to try. That determination will follow you long after the last chord of music has faded.

I couldn't find it on Amazon or anywhere else. But if you go to http://www.tnt.tv/ you can search the play list for "Gifted Hands". I hope you will see this with your children.

God loves you,

Debbie

David - a man of action.....are you?

Hopefully you've taken the time to read a little about David. If you did, your Bible might have referenced Acts 13:22

After removing Saul, he made David their king. He testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.

How would you like to be the kind of person that causes God to nudge one of his angels and say, "Wow, look at that guy. Now he's a man after my own heart." Or "Did you see that gal? Now she's a woman after my own heart."

What does it mean to be a person after God's heart? It can't mean that you are perfect. David wasn't perfect. He failed more often than he succeeded. He certainly wasn't the perfect Christian. Yes, he killed Goliath but he also killed an innocent man because he lusted for Bathsheba. He cried out for more of God and re-built the temple but he couldn't manage his family and one of his sons became a ruthless ruler.

Lucado says, "He stared down Goliath, yet ogled at Bathsheba; defied God-mockers in the valley, yet joined them in the wilderness. An Eagle Scout one day. Chumming with the Mafia the next. He could lead armies but couldn't manage a family. Raging David. Weeping David. Bloodthirsty. God-hungry. Eight wives. One God."

So....why did God love him so much? Why did God give him such a great compliment - "a man after my own heart."

I believe it was for two reasons.

1. David was a man of action. Not only did he love God, he trusted him with blind and powerful faith. If God said rebuild my temple - David was on board. He didn't quote all the impossibilities. He didn't look at the mounting problems. He just snapped his hand to a salute and said, "Yes Sir. You can consider it done." Then.....as he made plans and worked on all those problems - he prayed for God to provide a solution.

Once again he centered his eyes on God. David squared his jaw totally sold out to God's direction and simply made sure he stayed in tune with God's plan of action. Too bad he didn't use that same action plan on his personal life.

2. David was in love with the Almighty. Read the psalms. Even in his whining days, even when he was begging God for answers - there was an element of love. A closeness. A friendship. An admiration for the "person" of God not just for his help in tough times.

We are all facing tough times. Our government will not succeed because they have left the most important factor out.....God. Our schools are in trouble. Our businesses are in trouble. The fall out from years of coddling and catering to Godless people is finally upon us.

"Yuck!!! Don't be so depressing Debbie."

I'm NOT. It's in those totally failing times that we can look for miracles.

If you begin to read your Bible and pray, if you center your eyes on God and become focused on his purpose, if you learn more about the "person" of God and fall in love with a being that truly loves you......You too can slowly see the mist lift. You too can watch the blurred lines come together and reveal a perfect plan for your life. You too can be a modern day David - a man or woman of action that walks a little taller than everyone else. A person that has a plan. Yes...a person that stands along side of the Almighty God and in these trying times - you not only make it through, you actually succeed.

David was a man of action and a lover of The Almighty God.....are you?

God loves you,

Debbie

You can be a King David!

Are you discouraged today?

Maybe you are driving to meet with a client and you turned on the radio. You hoped for some encouragement and instead listened to two commentators talking about the economy. You're wondering how you can sell to your client with such bleak news.

Maybe you put your baby to bed and decided to do the bills while he's asleep. You feel like you've cut every corner yet there's too much month left with too little funds to cover it. You sit back in your chair and let the tears fall and you mentally watch all your hopes and dreams for your child vanish into thin air. How will you provide for college? How can you afford a nice wedding? Not to mention, how can he maintain a strong spiritual life in such a non-christian world?

Maybe you closed your Bible and bowed your head to pray for your congregation. They are such good people but they seem so lost. What can you say? How can you lead? These are such desperate times!

I HAVE GOOD NEWS........YOU CAN BE KING DAVID!

Not all the good news of the Bible takes place in the New Testament. A lot of it is in the Old Testament. Times were even harder then and it seemed there just wasn't any hope. Yet for every difficult time - God showed up!

If you can afford a few pennies....I recommend that you go to Amazon.com or half.com and order Max Lucado's book Facing the Giants. I love the way he explores our giants and how David can teach us to fight those giants.

David was so insignificant. Goliath was making fun of the Israelites. Goliath was mocking everyone. No one could take him. It was hopeless. The armies of God were simply waiting for the Philistines to march in and take over.

"For forty days, twice a day, morning and evening, the Philistine giant strutted in front of the Israelite army" (I Sam. 17:16)

Lucado asks the question, "Does yours do the same? First thought of the morning, last worry of the night -- your Goliath dominates your day and infiltrates your joy. How long has he stalked you?"

David wasn't paying attention. He didn't care what had happened before or what was about to happen. Little David, Psalm singing David....not really fighter material David had one simple thought. "God protected me before....he will do the same again."

How can anyone do that? How can any human with a mature thought process just push all the facts out of his mind? Did David know or see something that we don't?

YES! For forty days and nights all the Israelites could see was Goliath. He consumed all of their thoughts and paraded through their nightly dreams.

When David showed up he looked beyond Goliath. He focused on something bigger, something grander, something that made Goliath look like an ant. David focused on God.

"Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?" (17:26)

Lucado continues, "David shows up discussing God. The soldiers mentioned nothing about him, the brothers never spoke his name, but David takes one step onto the stage and raises the subject of the living God."

"The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine." (17:37)

Anytime I have serious trouble in my life, it's usually because I concentrate my eyes and thinking on the problem. It's when I forget how really big God is and how many wonderful answers He has - that's when real trouble begins.

We serve THE ALMIGHTY GOD. Do you know how big that is? Can you imagine even a tiny mustard seed of how large and magnificent He is?

David knew the power of his God.

"You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today, I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord save; for the battle is the Lord's and he will give all of you into our hands." (17:45-47)

Can you imagine the roar of laughter from the Philistines? Can you hear the jeers and taunts from Goliath? While Goliath bellows about David being a twig....David stands as tall and determined as he can. He squints his eyes and imagines all the power of Heaven.

Goliath sees a twig while David sees Almighty God and all his angels.

Lucado, "No one else discusses God. David discusses no one else but God. A subplot appears in the story. More than David versus Goliath, this is God-focus versus giant-focus. David sees what others don't and refuses to see what others do.....David majors in God. He sees the giant, mind you; he just sees God more so."

So, who do you see? Do you see an economy that's struggling or do you see a God that has promised to be faithful to his children?

Do you see a family that's falling apart or do you see a God with answers and a plan for your children?

Have you given up and said life is too complicated, I just want to quit. Or do you see the armies and angels of God poised and waiting for his command to deliver you from whatever you face.

Giving in to the problems around us is never the answer. Getting closer to the mighty God we serve will always provide answers and new opportunities.

I PROMISE YOU......WITH GOD'S WISDOM.....THERE IS A SOLUTION TO EVERY PROBLEM.

We may not like the solution, we may not be crazy about the work we have to do....but God is able to do all things.

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us (Eph. 3:20)

Remember: If you focus on your giants, you will stumble.

Focus on God and your giants will tumble.

God loves you,

Debbie

Let's stop whining and get to work!

This morning I rushed to a surgery clinic to pray with my friend before she went into minor surgery. Her husband and I talked in the waiting room until the doctor called us to a small room to explain what he'd done. After hearing all the facts, the conversation drifted and before we knew it the doctor (much younger than me) was on his soapbox.

I made a small remark about how I would vote for him if he decided to run for office. "You don't want me in Washington!"

"Why not?"

He pointed his finger my way and shook his head, "I tell the truth! Nobody likes the truth."

I asked a few questions and watched his determination and resolve grow stronger.

"I'm sick of hearing that there's a recession. People walking around with their hands out and whining about not having any money. Yet they go home to their full freezers and their satellite dishes. On Friday nights I see restaurants packed to the gills and people spending $30 a week on cigarettes and cokes - no....don't tell me there's a recession or depression until people stop spending on luxuries. I am doing pretty well, but I work my butt off - now and when I was younger.

Last week during the snow storm not one person knocked on my door asking if they could shovel my driveway. When I was a kid and I knew I could make $5 shoveling driveways or raking leaves - I got my butt out there and did the work. We've become a nation of whiners and beggars. Everybody thinks they are owed something and that I should give it to them. Not on your life. I think the rule in America should be that if you aren't working - don't expect to eat."

Woah! Didn't expect that for an after surgery talk....and yet....is he right? At what point do you say I've complained enough and now it's time to get to work.

I do agree with the principle he stands on. While some individuals are hard workers and have been victimized by this economy - there are too many whining complainers that want someone else to solve their problems. I feel bad for the hundreds of people that lose their job everyday. I worry that Ron may be next. And yet....when I see one man lose his job and hustle every day to find another one - vs. - a man who sits on his hind quarters for 13 weeks collecting unemployment never going on an interview - it does bother me. I get very angry when I see teens who have been coddled all their lives preparing to graduate with no plans for the future. Or Young adults who think mom and dad "owe" them a college degree or a new car or an apartment.

No one in this life is "owed" anything. No one "deserves" a specific lifestyle. Like the good doctor, I believe that the rule of the land should be adopted from John Smith of Jamestown. He was one of the ruling members of the Jamestown colony. After putting Matthew Scrivener in as governor, John Smith (yes, that's the John Smith who was rescued by Pocahontas) left to search for food for the colonies. Months later he returned to find that Scrivener wasn't cut out to be a leader. The colonies were worse than ever. John Smith was elected president of the local council in September 1608 and instituted a policy of discipline, encouraging farming with a famous admonishment: "He who does not work, will not eat." The settlement grew under his leadership.

America's beginning and our present economy is built on "production" and "capitalism. You can't spend or give your way to a better economy. You can only grow when people produce, make money and spend money.

There were provisions for the elderly and the sick. However, even the elderly were asked to contribute what they could.

So.......perhaps that's a good lesson for parents. More than once in the last few months I've heard the statement...."I'm afraid. This country is turning into a horrible place to raise children. We are doomed." That's a little dramatic - yet it expresses the fears of many parents.

THERE IS HOPE!

We don't have to just sit around and take whatever comes. If you don't like America - you can change America. If you don't agree with the way our government is going - you can change it. It will take some work - it will take good people banding together. But we can do it. If you don't like Hollywood or the liberal media - you can change it. We can change this world and we can make a difference. The more I think about it, the more I'm convinced that not only can we change America by how we raise our children....we can change America now!

Some of you may still like Mr. Obama. That's fine. But if you are a Christian, do you like the policies he's promoting? He is proving that his "extreme" liberal policies will attack not only Christians, but families as well. Can you and I do something about that? You bet we can.

Anytime you see a poll on the Internet - make a few clicks. Voice your opinion. Look up the e-mail address of your congressman, Governor, senate representative, local councilmen - anyone in authority. Take 20 minutes once a week to write an e-mail, send a letter or make a phone call. Let them know that you disapprove.

Join groups like the American Family Association. http://www.afa.net/ They send me updates on what's going on and I always send e-mails through them. Check out One News Source. http://www.onenewsnow.com/Read their articles and take their polls.

Most important though - train your children to know the truth. America's elite is trying to capture your mind and the mind of your child. If they can get you to believe a lie - they can lead you into their way of thinking. You MUST protect your mind and the mind of your child. Not by refusing to listen to or read opposing information - but rather by being able to recognize a lie when you read or hear it.

I hope you will join me in this quest. PARENT'S UNITE. Let's unite in prayer and with our work to build a better America.

If our forefathers could brave a long crossing, do without food or lodging, fight wars and persevere to build this great nation - we can face a little political nonsense!

If the soldiers of WWII could sleep in mud holes, do without food, brave the Arctic winters and ultimately lose their lives in order to rescue the holocaust victims - we can take a few minutes to send an e-mail.

If holocaust victims can hold on to their faith while they are being beaten, abused and gassed - we can face the dangers of standing for our faith. Surely we can spend a few minutes a week at our computers, sipping on a Starbucks while sitting in a comfy chair.

If you are not part of the solution - you are part of the problem.

Tomorrow I'll discuss why God chose David to be a king and how you can put those principles into your life.

God loves you,

Debbie

Are you committed to your parenting goals?

I have a long list of things to do today. Work is pressing in and I'm not sure I'm going to be able to get it all done. I may be up for a long time tonight.

Yet.....I'm going to take an hour and complete a project for my child that will elevate his/her self-esteem.

"Why would you do that? Won't they understand that you are busy? Especially with Ron so sick, couldn't you just give them a quick call?"

Yes, of course my child would understand. All three of my children are adults and busy with their own jobs. They understand that some things must wait for a better day.

BUT....my goals as a parent can't be realized by putting this off.

"Huh?"

One of my biggest parenting goals has always been for my children to know that they come first. You can say it 1,000 times - but just like any other relationship - if you mess up once.....if you put something off too long.....if you aren't there when they need you.....That's the time they will remember. I wish our brains worked differently, but they don't. Missed chances will always stick out in our minds.

At Thanksgiving and Christmas we sit around the table for hours talking about all the funny little things that have happened over the years. We all have a great relationship and my children remember so many terrific times together.

But when they are hurt, when they are having a hard time - just like every other child or adult - they remember those difficult times in the past. I don't ever want them to remember a difficult time when I wasn't there. If I stop when I'm really busy and take time for them - that's huge in their minds. They know that I am committed 100% to helping them navigate through this life.

Know why I'm so determined?

"Why?"

Because I've listened to them recall times when I missed the ball and it not only hurts them, it makes me wonder what their life could have been if I had been on top of the situation.

REMEMBER: There is no perfect parent and no perfect child.

Debbie Jansen is not perfect. I have made a ton of mistakes. But my goal....MY GOAL is to try very hard not to make any more.

So...what are your parenting goals? Are you staying true to them? Are you sharing your life with your children or do you just happen to live with them?

You can change the world by the decisions you make in your parenting goals. The future of this world and your child's life depends on what is most important to you today. Make sure you share all of your wisdom and strength with your child today - she/he needs all the help they can get.

Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser; teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. ---Proverbs 9:9


God loves you,

Debbie

Words can change everything

Ron is still hobbling around the house on crutches. Last night Amie and Jamie dropped by with chicken and a movie. It was a nice change for both of us.

We munched on our chicken and watched Fireproof with Kirk Cameron. It was a good movie with a wonderful message. If you haven't seen it, you must.

I won't spoil it for you. The movie centers around a firefighter and his wife. He takes great care on the job but home life is a constant argument.

I hope this movie helps a lot of people take an outside look at what they are doing in their homes. Bickering, fussing, calling names, fighting are all code for "I had a lousy day and I need you to serve me and make me feel better - or I'm so frustrated with the outside world that I'm going to take it out on you."

I'm wondering....If mom had a lousy day and Dad had a lousy day and the kids all had lousy days - who mends the hurts? Who interprets the words and explains the codes? Who makes the home a refuge (shelter or protection from danger) from the world rather than a refuse (garbage) of the world?

Did you know that it takes 10 positive statements to correct one negative picture in a child's mind? All that garbage you are spewing out at your child will have an effect on his life. All the bickering and garbage you send your husband or wife's way will change the direction of your marriage.

Everything that comes out of your mouth will change your circumstances.

"But Debbie, can't I ever be allowed to have a lousy day?"

Sure....just don't subject the people you love to a self-esteem pounding. The proper way to handle it is to walk through the door with a sad face. If no one asks about your day, go to your spouse, put your arms around him/her and say...."I had a terrible day. Can I just hug you for a moment? It's so wonderful to come home and know I get to look at your loving eyes."

Boom.....they are on the page with you. Even if their day was bad, you can hug and love and be there for each other.

If it's not working that way in your home - practice. Practice love, attention and holding your tongue. Words will change everything. Mean words will make the situation worse and kind words will make the situation better.

He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. -- Proverbs 16:32

Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools. -- Eccl. 7:9

He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls. --Proverbs 25:28

God loves you,

Debbie