People vs plans.

I'm a planner. I like to organize what will happen when. I'm not much for being taken by surprise (although some surprises are really nice!). 

God is continually teaching me that His plan is much better than mine. He has to continually teach me because I often forget lessons learned.

This Thanksgiving/Christmas season, it's easy to become focused on what has to be done (cooking, decorating, etc) that we forget the people.

God reminded me again, yesterday, that people are more important than a timetable I created. Talking with people builds relationships and that leads to opportunities to share God's love and encourage others.

I'm learning to focus more on people and less on if the Turkey is perfect, or if the table is set with the best dishes, etc. Sometimes easy is better for all involved and then the attention can be given to those in attendance.

Think about it for a moment. What do you remember from past Holidays? I remember the silly things that happened, what we laughed about, or who was there. I can't tell you what dishes we ate off of, or how the table was set. 
Memories that are of people are the most precious. Memories created with smiles, laughter, and love last longer than the Thanksgiving turkey!

People vs plans. 
I am praying that I remember that, but if I forget, God will gently remind me again.
May your Thanksgiving be filled with opportunities to create memories with family and friends. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Change of Plans — Again!

I don't talk much about my life with chronic pain. However, sometimes people ask questions, so I try to answer them. One aspect of chronic pain, that I often struggle with, is scheduling and commitments. 

I am a planner. I like to have things on the calendar, so that I can prepare and be ready for the events of any given day. Yet, there are days that my pain/headache do not take into consideration what is on my schedule. 

Today, was "one of those days". I had planned to fulfill a commitment (that had already had to be rescheduled from last week). Yet, this morning, I awoke with a severe headache. Worse than usual. I started the "headache routine" that involves, meds, essential oils, ice packs, trigger points. 

As I waited for the headache to lessen, I had to make a decision. Could I fulfill the commitment this morning? 

Yes, I could— BUT would it be the smart thing to do? I also have another commitment this afternoon, that can't be changed. Knowing that I have a unchangeable commitment this afternoon, I made the choice to reschedule (once again) this mornings plans. 

For me, that is so very frustrating. I hate not being able to do something I had planned. However, my body can only tolerate so much. So, I need to allow my body time to heal this morning, and lay low. 

Thankfully, the other people involved in my cancelation this morning, are fully understanding. They've been along side of my pain journey for most of the past 16 years. They get it. 

If you know someone who lives in chronic pain, or has an invisible illness (i.e. autoimmune disease, lyme, chronic headache, diabetes, etc) please be patient if they have to reschedule—even multiple times. It's not that they don't want to do an activity, it's just that their bodies won't allow it. Or they have to save their energy for an upcoming event that they simply can't miss. Please don't read anything into the cancelation of plans. Changing plans is not the desired thing! So, often we look forward to that event and doing something out of the norm. So, please be patient, understanding, and most of all encouraging! I'm so thankful that the people who have come along side of me are all of those. 

The key to living with a chronic illness/pain is flexibility. And realizing that things are beyond a person's control. It's about taking comfort knowing that even if things have to be rescheduled, it's OK! 

Why am I sharing this? So that others with chronic illness know that this is reality, and that it's ok. So that others without pain/illness learn why plans change. 

Today, is not what I had planned. However, my headache level is no surprise to God Almighty. He is fully aware of my pain and headache. Therefore, I take comfort in knowing that for whatever reason, God has allowed my plans to change today. It could be so that I write this post, to encourage someone, or it could be that God wanted to protect me from an accident, or it could be that God just me to take time to be still. 

So, if you know someone who lives with chronic pain/illness, please take time to understand a bit of their life. And take time to pray for them. 

If you have any questions, please ask. And remember, not all chronic illness/pain is the same. So, my answers may differ from one who suffers with a different illness.

Proverbs 11:4-6 Will direct his way.

Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way aright, but the wicked will fall by his own wickedness. The righteousness of the upright will deliver them, but the unfaithful will be caught by their lust. Proverbs 11:4-6

"Will direct his way aright"

Direct: make smooth, straight

Way: course of life, or action, undertakings

When one follows wisdom and listens to the leading of the Lord... all things really do work out for HIS glory and honor. 

Yesterday, I had to take my Mom to the ER. After they ran some tests, they decided to transfer her to another town where a specialized Doctor could run more tests. My Dad and I drove to the hospital and even on the drive there, God directed our ways as we were in the correct lane to get our exits, etc. 

After getting Mom settled into a room for the night, I tried to call several hotels to see if they had rooms available for Dad and I. The first I could not get through; they simply did not answer the phone. The second said they had rooms, but we were disconnected. So, Dad and I decided to just drive until we saw a place and see if we could get some rooms. 

We found a Motel and next store was a restaurant. We inquired the hours, since is was already past 9 pm. They were still open. Dad and I enjoyed a bowl of Thai chicken soup — very good after such a long day. As we were enjoying our soup, we noticed that the music playing was Christian. We heard "Blessed Assurance" and a few other songs. 

After our meal, Dad gave the owner one of his Bible Studies. The owner perked up. He went to get his wife from the kitchen. We enjoyed talking with them for about 30 min. They have believed on the Lord Jesus Christ and had some questions. We answered their questions and they even video taped Dad as he answered some. This way they can share it with their relatives in Thailand! It was a God-designed appointment! And a great blessing after a long day at the hospital. 

Will direct his way. God directed us the place we needed to be so that we could encourage believers. Having a heart permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), gives one great peace and assurance that God is working and will direct us to where He wants us to be. 

Will direct his way. Are you being directed by God and His wisdom?

The Future

Ever find yourself trying to guess the future? Last night as I was talking with God about this whole moving business, I was trying to figure out the "Doctor situation". The more I talked with Him, the more I wanted to KNOW NOW exactly what my doctors would be like and who they are. 

But God gently reminded me that He has that all taken care of too. Since God blessed me with an amazing team here—I have a wonderful Chiropractor and Pain Management Doctor—God will supply a new team when I relocate. 

Sometimes, I wish God would reveal the future to me. That would make planning so much easier on my part... I would have all the details worked out. HOWEVER, God knows that if I knew the future, 1. I wouldn't trust Him. 2. I would be overwhelmed with what He has planned. 3. It would take all the joy out of the surprises He has planned.

Therefore, I need to stop trying to guess what the future holds, and focus on the blessings God has planned for today. After all, God really does know the future... and He has all the details worked out. Isn't God amazing?!!

What a Day Brings Forth

I love God's timing. 

As I was cleaning out files yesterday and today, I came across several copies a poem I wrote on August 15, 2001... in several different files. 

I remember that day VERY well. I had an appointment downtown Chicago at a Rehab Institute for an evaluation on my back. I had planned for this appointment for weeks, gather all the necessary x-rays, medical records, etc. I had the train schedule almost memorized. That morning I woke up got ready and went to leave for the train station... only my car would not start. The battery was dead. Ok, that was NOT in my plans! I quickly called a few taxi companies until I found one that could come ASAP. I made it downtown in time for my appointment and a friend picked me up from the train station and brought me back home. 

On the train on the way into the City, I wrote this poem: 

What a Day Brings Forth—

No matter how well I prepare; 

no matter how well I plan;

What a day brings forth is not in my hands. 

Making phone calls, confirming dates; 

Copying records; checking the list;

What a day will bring forth —there is no way to predict. 

The unexpected can be a blessing in disguise.

Consider the adventure, and the surprise—

Instead of focusing on the whats and whys. 

I do know—beyond any doubt

What a day brings forth in not in my hands, 

But this day is EXACTLY what God has planned! 

-R.Sawtelle • August 15, 2001

Since God had me find this poem... several times, I guess He wants to remind me that He does have some surprises and a PERFECT plan as I prepare to move. Isn't God great?!!!

EXCITING MONDAY NIGHT!

Wow, what an Exciting Monday Night! 

Let's see… on Monday, Nov 4th, I had a chiropractic appointment, then stopped at Anyway's American Grill & Pub to enjoy dinner and watch the Chicago Bears  football game. 

Just before half time… I fainted. Never had that happen before! The EMTs arrived and my blood pressure was way too low so off to the hospital I went. They ran LOTS of tests. I got to watch my heart beat as they did an echocardiogram. They even added bubbles.. that was 'way cool' to watch! All the results were normal. They attribute the passing out to a combination of pain medication, pain itself, and being a little dehydrated…….maybe the excitement that the Bears were actually BEATING the Packers was just too much… lol 

I was able to meet some amazing people, starting at Anyways, the EMTs, the hospital Emergency Dr and Staff, then the Nurses and Doctors on the cardiology floor, the Techs at all the various testing rooms. I was able to share that God is good! and give some "Create A Positive Day!" cards out. 

I have NO idea why I passed out, but I do know that God PUT me exactly where He wanted me to share how awesome my God is. 

I continue to learn that sometimes when things happen, it's not about me. That God wants to introduce me to people so that I can share how God is working in my life. 

Creating a positive day, is not about me feeling good or just having fun, rather it's about knowing that God is in control and that He is working in and through me for His glory and honor. 

PS. The Bears did win the game 27 to 20! I was able to watch the game in the ER, so that was good. Wasn't sure if the attention I received from the ER Dr and Staff was because they were concerned about me…. or just wanted to see the Bears Game. lol (Seriously, though, they took great care of me!)

Update Wed, Nov 6th: Was talking with God this morning about my "exciting Monday night/Tuesday". I have to say that as I look at the details… wow. First off, I was standing near a table as I started to pass out, and the people nearby caught me, so that I did not fall. There was a Pediatric Nurse there, who stepped in and helped me until the EMTs arrived. The EMTs were great. The Hospital was able to begin treating me as soon as I arrived (due to the fact the EMTs knew which hospitals were busy and which one was not). Even though I was weak, I was coherent and able to tell the Nurses and Dr the vital information. 

The Nurses I had …. were all former HEROES! One served as a firefighter the other an EMT before becoming Nurses. Then one of the Techs I had was a Military Navy Veteran from Florida! His family lives in the city where I was born. As always I was on the "look out" for ways to share my "Create a Positive Day!' cards. And God presented several opportunities. 

Then when I was transferred to a room about 3 am…. my Nurse was so helpful and kind. She asked if I was afraid to go home (a question they ask to learn if there is any abuse in families or home situations). I replied with "No, I'm actually wondering what my parakeet is doing." lol She then asked lots of questions about Max… and of course that opened the door for me to give her one of my "Create a Positive Day!" cards with Max's pictures on it. 

The Drs ordered various tests which included drawing blood and IVs. Each time they needed to "stick me" my veins cooperated. So I'm only bruised a little. So thankful for Nurses who listen to patients who tell them, "use this vein and a double tourniquet". They each listened, and there were no problems. 

Even when there were delays in transporting me from tests, they were "God-designed" as it gave me even more opportunities to share how good my God is. God provided several one-on-one opportunities that would not normally happen in a busy hospital. 

God continues to teach me that it is not about "me". Rather, God creates situations and opportunities to introduce me to people to share about God and His love. 

Although, I'd rather not go through all this again… I do know that if I do, God has a purpose and plan that only He can design. I continue to ask God to make me aware of and attentive to His God-designed plans to give Him the glory and honor. 

Thank you for all your prayers….God is answering them in the most amazing ways!

Entirely Under God’s Control

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 146. Here is what I learned.

The Lord protects and preserves the strangers and temporary residents, He upholds the fatherless and the widow and sets them upright, but the way of the wicked He makes crooked (turns upside down and brings to ruin). Psalm 146:9 (AMP)

The Lord ·protects [guards] the ·foreigners [sojourners]. He ·defends [supports] the orphans and widows [the socially vulnerable], but he ·blocks [frustrates] the way of the wicked. Psalm 146:9 (EXB)

"The way of the wicked he turneth upside down." He overturns their plans, defeats their schemes; makes their purposes accomplish what they did not intend they should accomplish. The Hebrew word here means to bend, to curve, to make crooked, to distort; then, to overturn, to turn upside down. The same word is applied to the conduct of the wicked, in Psalm 119:78 : "They dealt perversely with me." The idea here is that the path is not a straight path; that God makes it a crooked way; that they are diverted from their design; that through them he accomplishes purposes which they did not intend; that he prevents their accomplishing their own designs; and that he will make their plans subservient to a higher and better purpose than their own. This is the eleventh reason why those who put their trust in God are happy. It is that God is worthy of confidence and love, because he has all the plans of wicked men entirely under his control.  Albert Barnes

“He has all the plans of wicked men entirely under his control.” So, often I wish I could “play God”, for I’d “zap” those wicked men into submission. If they were holding a rally to promote an ungodly or immoral idea, I’d make it rain and storm. I’d find ways to mess up their plans. But I’m not God! So, I have to realize that even those that go against God’s Word are under His control... and that God’s mercy and love is available to them as well. 

Sometimes it’s easy to think that I’m “above” others, for their sin must be worse than mine. But as I’ve stated before, God is holy and sin is sin. There is no distinction between sins—to a holy God, all sin is despicable. 

To create a positive day, I need to remember that yes, the plans of the wicked are entirely under God’s control, and then I need to acknowledge God’s grace and mercy in my own life. 

Enjoy with Confidence

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 92. Here is what I learned.

How great are Your doings, O Lord! Your thoughts are very deep. Psalm 92:5 (AMP)

Your works are marvelous, O Eternal One! Your thoughts are unfathomable. Psalm 92:5 (VOICE)

"Thy thoughts." The plural of מחשׁבת, from the verb חשׁב, to meditate, to count, to weave; and this last word gives a good idea of what is here made the subject of admiration and praise, the wonderful intricacy and contrivance with which the Divine Mind designs and executes his plans, till at length the result is seen in a beautifully woven tissue of many delicately mingled and colored threads.  Christopher Wordsworth

"O Lord, how great are thy works!" He is lost in wonder. He utters an exclamation of amazement. How vast! How stupendous are the doings of Jehovah! Great for number, extent, and glory and design are all the creations of the Infinite One. "And thy thoughts are very deep." The Lord's plans are as marvellous as his acts; his designs are as profound as his doings are vast. Creation is immeasurable, and the wisdom displayed in it unsearchable. Some men think but cannot work, and others are mere drudges working without thought; in the Eternal the conception and the execution go together. Providence is inexhaustible, and the divine decrees which originate it are inscrutable. Redemption is grand beyond conception, and the thoughts of love which planned it are infinite. Man is superficial, God is inscrutable; man is shallow, God is deep. Dive as we may we shall never fathom the mysterious plan, or exhaust the boundless wisdom of the all-comprehending mind of the Lord. We stand by the fathomless sea of divine wisdom, and exclaim with holy awe, "O the depth!" The Treasury of David

God owes us no explanation of why He does what He does. He is God. Even if I can’t figure out or even imagine what God is doing, or why He allows what He does, I do know that God is God and He has purpose that is far greater than anything I could imagine. 

I often wonder, why I think I can figure out what God is doing. I can’t even grasp the beauty of a sunrise, or understand how a bird can fly. So, why do I even begin to think I know what God is doing... or why He’s doing it? 

To create a positive day, I only have to enjoy with confidence that God’s way are much greater than mine, and trust Him as He accomplishes His plan. 

His Decisions can be Trusted

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 33. Here is what I learned.

The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nought; He makes the thoughts and plans of the peoples of no effect. Psalm 33:10 (AMP)

The Lord ·upsets [frustrates] the ·plans [counsels] of nations; he ·ruins [foils] ·all their plans [the plans of the peoples]. Psalm 33:10 (EXB)

The cause of God is never in danger: infernal craft is outwitted by infinite wisdom, and Satanic malice held in check by boundless power. The Treasury of David

I’m a planner. I like to think through every aspect before I make a decision. However, I’ve learned that no matter how much I plan... there are always unknowns, or changes in circumstances for which I cannot take into account as I plan. 

Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unfathomable (inscrutable, unsearchable) are His judgments (His decisions)! And how untraceable (mysterious, undiscoverable) are His ways (His methods, His paths)! For who has known the mind of the Lord and who has understood His thoughts, or who has [ever] been His counselor? Romans 11:33-34 (AMP)

When God changes my plans, I need to remember that although I may not understand why, His decisions are to be trusted! 

To create a positive day, I need to accept God’s plans, knowing that because of God’s wisdom His decisions can be trusted. 

Ultimately in Control!

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 61. Here is what I learned.

May You prolong the [true] King’s life [adding days upon days], and may His years be to the last generation [of this world and the generations of the world to come]. Psalm 61:6 (AMP)

Add days upon days to the life of the king. May his years endure throughout every generation. Psalm 61:6 (GW)

As I read Psalm 61:6, I realized the truth that I really have no control over prolonging my life. That ultimate is up to God and His plan. However, I still need to continue to make the best choices in caring for my body and not act foolishly. 

How much time is wasted on being anxious about things out of our control? I think back a few years, my sister and I had things all planned out. My parents moved to her town, so she’d be able to care for them in their old age. And sometime in the future, I’d move close to her, so we could help care for each other as we aged. But God had a totally DIFFERENT plan. My sister died in April 2011 due to cancer. My parents then moved back to FL, to be near my brothers. And.... I guess in time I might move down there too.... maybe. 

Plans... how do I add days to my life? That I can’t do! 

And which of you by being overly anxious and troubled with cares can add a cubit to his stature or a moment [unit] of time to his age [the length of his life]? Luke 12:25 (AMP)

What I can do is make sure that each and every day I am living a life that is pleasing to God and accomplishing His will for my life. 

To create a positive day, I need to remember that when I create plans, to make sure I consult God, realizing that He is ultimately in control! 

Greater Purpose

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 90. Here is what I learned.

You sweep mortals away. They are a dream. They sprout again in the morning like cut grass. Psalm 90:5 (GW)

You sweep people away like dreams that disappear. They are like grass that springs up in the morning. Psalm 90:5 (NLT)

You release the waters of death to sweep mankind away in his slumber. In the morning, we are blades of grass. Psalm 90:5 (VOICE)

Our lives are but fleeting moments. When we wake up in the morning, we don’t know what the day will hold. Each day has 24 hours, and once the day is over, it’s gone for good. Some of us may live for 60 or 80 years, others may die young. God doesn’t promise us a certain number of years, rather He does promise us eternal life, if we place our faith and trust in Him. 

24 hours. It will be gone in the blink of an eye. What will I do with this 24 hours? Will I use it wisely, or will I waste it? 24 hours. 

I am a  planner. I have my lists or goals of what I'd like to accomplish each day. Yet, as well throughout out my plans are, I don’t know all the aspects of what a day will bring forth. For example, I had planned to clean the apartment today. But, since my last surgery, I’ve had increased pain in my back, and today it was even more intense, creating muscle spasms. So, I had to forgo the cleaning. Sometimes, my plans change due to my pain level, other days my plans change due to weather, or the schedules of others. 

The other day I wrote on Facebook... “Looking forward to seeing what God has planned for me today. His plans are always so much more thought out and have a greater purpose than my plans.” I have to remember as I plan my day, that it’s best to follow God’s leading and see what He wants me to accomplish each day.

Just as soon as this day starts, it ends. What I accomplish doesn’t really matter, if I didn’t accomplish God’s plan. And knowing what God wants me to accomplish on this fleeting day, means that I have to be willing to listen to His leading. 

To create a positive day, I need to see what God has planned for me today, for His plans have a greater purpose than mine—His plans have eternal benefits. 

Now and on the Day I Die

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 146. Here is what I learned.

·When people die [Their spirit goes out], they ·are buried [return to the ground]. ·Then all of [On that day] their plans ·come to an end [perish]. Psalm 146:4 (EXB)

When they breathe their last breath, they return to the ground. On that day their plans come to an end. Psalm 146:4 (GW)

As soon as their breath leaves them, they return to the earth; on that day, all of them perish—their dreams, their plans, and their memories. Psalm 146:4 (VOICE)

Last night a NASCAR driver was killed in a Sprint Car dirt track race. Only 37 years old. Sad. But it’s a reminder that death can happen at anytime. It’s often unexpected and not in our plans. 

At the time of death our plans, dreams, etc, won’t matter. What does matter is our relationship with God. He doesn’t look at “how good we’ve been”, or “all the good things we’ve done”, because no matter how “good” we think we are, compared to a Holy God we are just sinners. 

But thankfully, God provided a way for us to have our sins forgiven. 

For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten ([a]unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life. John 3:16 (AMP)

I know that when I die, I will enter Heaven, because I’ve placed my faith in God and accepted His gift of salvation. That’s an assurance that is comforting. 

As I live my life, I need to keep in mind, my plans and activities will come to an end. I need to sure that I’m involved in “eternal work”, work that will last, things that matter to God. “Stop storing up treasures for yourselves on earth, where moths and rust destroy and thieves break in and steal.  Instead, store up treasures for yourselves in heaven, where moths and rust don’t destroy and thieves don’t break in and steal.  Your heart will be where your treasure is. Matthew 6:19-21 (GW)

My life is coming to an end, and it is now time for me to be poured out as a sacrifice to God. I have fought the good fight. I have completed the race. I have kept the faith. The prize that shows I have God’s approval is now waiting for me. The Lord, who is a fair judge, will give me that prize on that day. He will give it not only to me but also to everyone who is eagerly waiting for him to come again. 2 Timothy 4:6-8 (GW)

Knowing that I’m saved for all eternity, and doing God’s work, will create a positive day.. now and on the day I die. 

Well-Thought-Out Plans

"God, you are my God.

I celebrate you. I praise you.

You’ve done your share of miracle-wonders,

well-thought-out plans, solid and sure."

Isaiah 25:1 (MSG)

I'm claiming this verse for my 'surgery week'. My goal is to celebrate and praise God and share His miracle-wonders...knowing that no matter what the outcome of the surgery it's all part of HIS well-thought-out plan...very solid and true! What a peace and comfort that provides! 

And the very thought that God has a specific plan for me sure makes the day a positive one! 

Note: On December 20th I'm scheduled for back surgery number nine. I'm trying a new Spinal Implant Stimulator Company. The goal of this surgery is to see if the Dr. can place wires without removing the 'paddle' from the other Stimulator. I'll be "wired" for a week to test the placement. The wires will be removed in back surgery number 10, on or about December 27th. If the new wire placement works in helping reduce my leg pain, I'll make then decision whether or not for permanent placement.

God-Looking!

Had to run some errands the other day, one being getting my hair cut. I stopped into the place and asked if my stylist was working today... not for over an hour. OK. Figured I'd go finish my errands and come back.

On the way out of the salon, I stopped to look at some pics of shorter hair. I mentioned to a lady waiting, that "I'm going shorter... just now sure how short." She asked, "why?" I replied, that with upcoming back surgery, shorter hair is easier to care for.

She then asked if I was in an accident. I briefly explained and then her expression changed... and she said "Wow, you must be in pain.... but you are smiling." I replied, "That's the joy of the Lord. God loves me and cares for me in amazing ways." After we talked for a bit longer, she thanked me for sharing about God's goodness. We parted with "Merry Christmas!" 

And I thought I was "just running errands" today... but God had something more specific in mind!

"If you want to know your calling, don’t go “calling-looking.” Go God-looking. God knows where He wants you, what He is calling you to do, when He wants you to do it, and how He wants it done. Therefore, if you want to find your calling, look for God. When you find God, His calling will find you." Tony Evans

It's fun going "God-looking" and sharing His awesome love with others. And when I'm "God-looking" that makes the day a positive one.

My Plans Vs God's Plan

I'm a planner. Before doing anything I research, and research, and plan, and figure out all the possible solutions, and even try to account for all the "unexpecteds" that might pop-up along the way.

However, I'm learning that no matter what MY PLANS are, God's PLAN is a much better one! My planS (yes, plural) are often VERY good. However, God's PLAN (singular) is MUCH better than any of my plans. This is one lesson which God has to continue to teach me.

My car, a 1995 Ford Escort, needs to be replaced. It's a great car, but it's at the point that repairs are needed more often than I like. I've been working on my plans to get a newer car for while. Yet, it's only been the past 2 months when I thought that perhaps I could actually do something about it. I have been working on saving every penny toward a down payment.

My plans 

were coming along

PERFECTLY! 

That was until God reminded me that HE has a PLAN. This past week, I took my car in for an oil change and tire rotation and to check on a "roar". I explained to the Service Manager, Mike, that I didn't want to put much money into any repairs as I am looking to get a newer car. We discussed various cars models which would be good for me to consider.

After waiting a while, Mike approached me. He explained what the "roar" was and that it didn't have to be fixed.  However, the brakes were extremely bad. It was not safe to drive the car, I'd have to replace them. Okay, now that was NOT in my plans at ALL! Yet, I had to take a deep breath and realize that the brake repair was in God's plan. 

As I was at home waiting for my car to be fixed, I had time to think. I had to stop and thank God for His protection. The brakes were not safe, yet, God made sure that they worked as I drove around. God prompted me to go in for an oil change ASAP, so that the brake problem would be found. And over 15 years ago, God provided an AWESOME repair shop with an owner and staff who are honest and have taken great care of my car. 

My planS vs God's plan. 

No matter how much I research and think through all the possible scenarios, there are unforeseen circumstances which God allows. I'm not sure I understand all the reasons God wanted me to spend money on fixing a car when I'm trying to get a newer one. Yet, I do KNOW that God's plan is so much better than mine. And I don't need to know all the reasons why He does what He does. I only need to trust Him and continue to seek His will and follow HIS PLAN for my life.

And what about MY planS for a newer car? I'm still working on them, but I'm also making sure that I consult God on what HIS PLAN is. I'll keep you posted! 

Once again, I'm reminded that in order to have a positive day, I need to trust God as He carries out His plan for my life.

Going full speed—suddenly STOP

The past few weeks, I've been pushing myself to get the apartment ready for the remodel. Not having a specific date made it hard to know how fast things needed to be done. (Still no specific date, but should hear this week.) As I look at all that has been accomplished, I feel great. There are still items that need to be packed, and some to get rid of...but a lot has been completed.

Today, I had a list of things to accomplish.... but nothing has been crossed off the list. When I got up this morning, my headache was the worst it's been in YEARS—it was migraine level. I started the normal headache treatments (Stim Plus, essential oils, massage, medicine, etc.) but the headache was getting worse, not better. Finally, this afternoon, it started to lessen... still not back to my normal level, but better.

Earlier today, I felt too bad to feel frustrated about not getting my "to do list" completed. But as I started to feel better, I looked at what needs to be done, and just as I started to get frustrated, it hit me—nothing on the list has to be accomplished today. It can all be done tomorrow, or the next day.... or even the next. I was the one who created the list.. so I can be the one to determine when the tasks are completed. 

Since I'm not feeling well enough to do anything physical, I started thinking through the new layout designs for the apartment. I realized that some layout ideas won't work, unless I move additional items, like the printer. Some layouts will require additional wiring for the TV antennae and hard drives. If I didn't take the time to be quiet and think, I might not have considered what each of the layouts would require.

I am a person how usually goes full speed ahead! And when I'm forced to stop.. I usually get frustrated and try to figure out how I can keep going. For some reason, I often view "stopping" as a bad thing. Yet, that is not true. Stopping allows me to review the plan of action and make necessary changes. Stopping gives me time to reflect on all that has been done. Stopping can give me a new perspective. Stopping can lead me in a new and very often, better direction. 

God says "be still.... and know that I am God." Can't I know God when I'm going at full speed? Yes, but when I'm moving at full force, I'm going in my direction and I am not paying attention to God's guidance. Be still. God knows when I am still, He can have my full attention. He can teach me things, which I only can see when I'm still. 

Look at it this way. Next time you are driving down the highway at 70 mph... look out the window and try to notice the scenery. Then at the next traffic jam, when you are stopped, look out the window. See anything different? How much did you miss as you flew past? 

God knows that for us to hear Him and see what He has planned, we need to be still. Only when we STOP, are we open to changing directions, new ideas, or realizing what God is accomplishing. 

Perhaps you can't imagine how today could be a positive day.. there isn't much positive about having a headache. But it's not the headache I'm focusing on... rather, I'm focusing on being still and listening to God. And any day...I stop and listen to God...is a VERY positive day.

Etched in Stone

I'm a researcher and planner. I can't make any decision without doing research and more research and even more research, just in case I missed something in the first few searches. I like all the facts.....then I think it all through and make my decision.

Once I make the decision, I'm 120% all go. Being a goal oriented person, I like knowing where I'm going and having a plan on how to get there. However, God has taught me over the years, that walking by faith means that I don't have to always know everything.

And if my plans are changed...it's okay.

It's good to research and plan, as long as I remain sensitive to God's leading. I can't allow my goals and plans to be etched in stone, and not allow God to change them so that I can accomplish His will. Being soft and pliable is vital to God directing me. How does a person like me, who likes to have it all planned out, remain soft and pliable? By keeping my focus on God.

To stay on the right track, I have to check in with God each and every day. I also am thankful for friends who help keep me in check. If I am not sure of how to proceed, I stop and take inventory. Then after talking with God and some godly friends, I move forward.

There are times, when I go in the wrong direction. And I'm so very thankful that God uses those detours to teach me and then directs me back to the right track. After a few detours, you'd think I'd learn... but being human.. I do take wrong turns. God graciously continues to work with me.

I will still research things and make plans... that's part of who I am.

However, I need to remember that my plans however good they may be, aren't necessarily etched in stone.

Creating a positive day is easy when I allow God to direct my steps. When I'm soft and pliable in His hands, He can lead me in the direction I should go. When I'm walking with God, He has a way of making each day great. A positive day is not based upon my pain level, but rather knowing that God is in control!