tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5792353943304623672024-03-05T15:42:31.019-05:00G.I.R.L ~ God Inspired Reborn Lady2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone and the new has come!"Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-37987962627462104402016-09-06T09:33:00.002-04:002016-09-06T09:34:11.596-04:00Are you there, Lord?This past month has been a whirlwind of events and emotions. Sometimes, our lives can seem so chaotic, that we may wonder how we are even breathing. I have had to remind myself daily that "God is in control!" There have been days that I couldn't get out of bed, brush my teeth, or even shower from the weight of stress that was filling my body. I am very thankful for my brothers and sisters in Christ that would constantly whisper the words "God is control!" to me. God is my anchor. He is my refuge. He is my everything. Even on my worst day, he still loves me unconditionally and faithfully. His mercy is more than I deserve and his love is greater than I can imagine.<br />
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Friend, if you are struggling today, choose to trust him! Constantly dwell on the words, "God is in control". Say it silently; say it out loud; shout it to the heavens above! Do whatever it takes to exchange conversation with God, draw closer to him, and rest in his arms to deliver you, because "God is in control!".<br />
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Psalm 73:26 - "My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart: he is mine forever."Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-43710260211493542492012-04-16T10:35:00.001-04:002012-04-16T10:35:29.414-04:00Note from God1 Corinthians 2:9 "However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him."<br />
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We cannot begin to understand all that God has in store for us on this earth or in heaven. This world brings much sorrow and hardships, but this world is not all there is. In your times of struggle, REMEMBER: The BEST is yet to come! Lean against Jesus' chest and feel his heartbeat and breath upon your life. Trust him to make your paths straight and to give you rest. <br />
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When our world is shaking, Heaven still stands!<br />
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Seeking wisdom from God,<br />
TonyaTonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-15776193424898228802012-04-09T09:55:00.000-04:002012-04-09T09:55:42.110-04:00Resurrection RollsWe started our Easter morning with the family making resurrection rolls as we discussed Jesus dying on the cross, his burial, and his resurrection! A great lesson in the kitchen that proved to be humbling and delicious!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4AKX_wJMF0L8N2_Fs0owzeWVT4hyoCHHtbIylyIIh5ZWyX7DUtSMxbj1Yp8gnqrRHkSiM6Z9_rQajJtyvq3Y51it9Xkg2WzKOlQ6VH2fgYcWk31QAmtWUCWDs_Xh444hvZ_B_CSnT61hF/s1600/photo+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4AKX_wJMF0L8N2_Fs0owzeWVT4hyoCHHtbIylyIIh5ZWyX7DUtSMxbj1Yp8gnqrRHkSiM6Z9_rQajJtyvq3Y51it9Xkg2WzKOlQ6VH2fgYcWk31QAmtWUCWDs_Xh444hvZ_B_CSnT61hF/s1600/photo+(1).jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Camo is ready to get started!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5togyN5-S5hMds0tSRI6atstKs9qtGJSpADFPzouzhD9WPu02_9JOSKWJaeR9KjiFheKWRAmpQttpfm6TPLwrdAPwBcGT0y2S7h3FJnoq5Oo3y10UTLjg5Q0rjBSIeJ8cKhQCYsV6l3qK/s1600/ingred.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5togyN5-S5hMds0tSRI6atstKs9qtGJSpADFPzouzhD9WPu02_9JOSKWJaeR9KjiFheKWRAmpQttpfm6TPLwrdAPwBcGT0y2S7h3FJnoq5Oo3y10UTLjg5Q0rjBSIeJ8cKhQCYsV6l3qK/s1600/ingred.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ingredients and Directions:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You will need a marshmallow to represent Jesus and his purity. Roll the marshmallow around in melted butter which represents the oils for embalming. Next, roll the marshmallow in cinnamon and sugar which represents the spices used to annoint the body of Jesus. Then, wrap the marshmallow in a crescent roll triangle that represents the cloth that wrapped Jesus' body after his death. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmqjQmS0VnEh_AJ2FYAQ8DQ-WvCOTi-nVQcwT2sFuUD7Wi49m3rABYPt8yR2OJun_lkDSOfHV8eqL9zkYq3vX0JfNebaQ0GDhAebutaMlmTKGAv0a6LizSWFcEIBnmuBgdJfYR3VLOn11H/s1600/group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmqjQmS0VnEh_AJ2FYAQ8DQ-WvCOTi-nVQcwT2sFuUD7Wi49m3rABYPt8yR2OJun_lkDSOfHV8eqL9zkYq3vX0JfNebaQ0GDhAebutaMlmTKGAv0a6LizSWFcEIBnmuBgdJfYR3VLOn11H/s1600/group.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Everyone was excited about making Resurrection Rolls!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuNWjLQz-H97_yeonuKzZc_WDzt6bRTjRPh8HlYPusGfesYWUQM-Czj-WVAEVXe2jJoBQ2YEUEQRoosGAJU23lrYrfedHLJfsCT1UFElEBeRHCaHtewdr7Jnb4h38zc1mzckP6mxMxGzD/s1600/photo+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuNWjLQz-H97_yeonuKzZc_WDzt6bRTjRPh8HlYPusGfesYWUQM-Czj-WVAEVXe2jJoBQ2YEUEQRoosGAJU23lrYrfedHLJfsCT1UFElEBeRHCaHtewdr7Jnb4h38zc1mzckP6mxMxGzD/s1600/photo+(2).jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Place in 350 degree oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until crescent rolls are golden brown. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The oven represents the tomb. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj5_W1vxqbnZ9HAmdHrzsZLRhmq4uSyiimbJprTQTalMTD7ySfS5Ei7OIUXt_68rpBDd1TbLP_RLkt3S9JChndCHwE4sA9oE6uqUhYaJwedzXADgaeTfaiI8djxaS5KJ6QnhL81bsFbeEi/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj5_W1vxqbnZ9HAmdHrzsZLRhmq4uSyiimbJprTQTalMTD7ySfS5Ei7OIUXt_68rpBDd1TbLP_RLkt3S9JChndCHwE4sA9oE6uqUhYaJwedzXADgaeTfaiI8djxaS5KJ6QnhL81bsFbeEi/s1600/photo.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When the rolls are done and cooled, open the crescent roll (cloth) and discover that Jesus (marshmallow) is no longer there. <em><strong>He is risen!</strong></em> The crescent roll is empty just like the tomb!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy Monday after Easter everyone! I pray you have a blessed week!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-61125395636031928842012-04-02T11:24:00.000-04:002012-04-02T11:24:13.238-04:00The Waiting Game<em>On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but <strong><u>wait</u></strong> for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. Acts 1:4</em><br />
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At this time, Jesus has nothing for the disciples to do but <strong><em>wait</em></strong>. They were commanded to <strong><em>wait</em></strong> on the Holy Spirit. Jesus knew they could do nothing effective for the kingdom of God until the Spirit came upon them.<br />
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Have you ever found yourself in a situation where all you could do is <strong><em>wait</em></strong> on God? A situation where there is nothing that you can do to resolve your problem? Maybe your marriage is on the edge of disaster or you are at your wits-end with a rebellious teenage child. Perhaps your finances look so pitiful that you can't even dig lint out of your pockets. You are just simply at a place where the only thing you can do is <strong><em>wait</em></strong> on God to fix your problem. Don't loose hope. God has a purpose for your <strong><em>"waiting"</em></strong> and God will deliver and be glorified! <br />
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Allow me to first confess that I am <strong>NOT</strong> good at <em><strong>waiting</strong></em> and this has been one <u>tough</u> test for this girl! Perhaps that is why God <u>has</u> (notice present tense) me in a <strong><em>"waiting"</em></strong> season now. He wants me to not just learn how to <em><strong>wait</strong></em> on Him, but learn to <strong>trust</strong> Him completely! The more we wait, the more we learn to trust. As my dear friend, Miss Patricia, used to say to my son, Justin - "Justin, you are just-in time", God is always just-in time! He is rarely early, never late, but always just in time! <br />
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These past few months have been a great struggle for me. I have found myself feeling helpless and not able to control many circumstances around me. Thankfully, God has taken me from the pit of helplessness, lack of confidence, insecurity, feeling as though my life is a blur <strong>TO</strong> standing confident in my "field of life" proclaiming what God has promised me and being secure in His arms, trusting and acknowledging His every move has great purpose in my life. I may not always understand his path for me, but I am learning the hard way to trust his steps for me. <br />
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My prayer for you today, my sweet sister or brother <em>(you</em> that is searching for answers in your struggle) is that you draw as close to God as possible during what seems like a "hopeless" situation. As long as we have God, we always have hope. <strong><em>Wait</em></strong> for the gifts that God has promised. He is<strong> faithful</strong> and always just in time!<br />
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Just a girl waiting, <br />
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Tonya<br />
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Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-38708798288950398202012-01-20T09:16:00.000-05:002012-01-20T09:16:37.603-05:00In Need of Help?<em><strong>Psalm 121:1-2 "I lift up my eyes to the hills--where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."</strong></em><br />
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No matter what troubles you may be facing today, keep your eyes on the Lord. Your help will come from Him! He has yet to fail me and I know he <em><strong>never</strong></em> will!<br />
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Be Blessed!<br />
Tonya<br />
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</div>Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-15066453114731767332011-12-23T14:55:00.000-05:002011-12-23T14:55:06.021-05:00O Christmas TreeMany of my blogger friends have been sharing pictures of their Christmas trees, mantles, tables, etc. So, today I am posting a picture of our tree. The tree is my favorite decoration during the Christmas season! I love the ornaments (my favorites are the ones that my boys have made over the years) and the white lights on our tree! The white lights create such a peaceful atmosphere that you can't help but to relax and stare at it for hours. :) My absolute favorite part of our tree is the star! Everytime I look at it I am reminded of the star of Bethlehem and Jesus! He is the reason for the season!<br />
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Our Christmas tree....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX78WOf5ntwS0keb6_rNqPpxa0kRdD18Xv-afvldT9jPHm3vhJ3gutbCfDsxgk7qlumYYVxWsyIl4Rrvh9EHiMaKxQTxcwnPOh5U1DuzFAS51ZadkXPEKDggpKNHaazkz9eEnvfWwRnji1/s1600/DSC02254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX78WOf5ntwS0keb6_rNqPpxa0kRdD18Xv-afvldT9jPHm3vhJ3gutbCfDsxgk7qlumYYVxWsyIl4Rrvh9EHiMaKxQTxcwnPOh5U1DuzFAS51ZadkXPEKDggpKNHaazkz9eEnvfWwRnji1/s320/DSC02254.JPG" width="249" /></a></div><br />
From our family to yours....MERRY CHRISTMAS!!<br />
Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-68755183476311403212011-12-21T08:05:00.000-05:002011-12-21T08:05:03.762-05:00A Mother's Treasure<div style="text-align: center;"><em>When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. <strong>But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.</strong> Luke 2:17-19</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Can you imagine the joy Mary had as she listened to the shepherds share of what the angel(s) said to them? Think about the honor that she must have felt when she realized that the shepherds and wise men had dropped everything they were doing just to come see the Christ child that had been born--her baby! With so many visitors and gifts for her baby, I am sure that humility covered Mary's heart and soul as she rejoiced over the birth of Jesus.<br />
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As Mary held baby Jesus in her arms, I am sure she thought about the long journey that lead to that day in the stable. From the gossiping tongues of Nazareth, to the decree that was issued that brought them to Bethlehem-the town with no room for its King, I know it was all worth it to Mary as she held her baby.<br />
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As she looked into his eyes and imagined him growing over the years, do you think it crossed her mind that his future would lead to a Crucifixion? As she watched everyone ooh and ahh over her baby, did she know that He would walk on water or make a blind man see? As she kissed her baby's face, did she consider that he would one day rule the nations? Oh Mary, did you know???<br />
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Irregardless of what she understood or didn't, Jesus was her son and a mother's love runs deep for her child! She treasured her gift from God and trusted Him for his future.<br />
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Today, I am sharing a video of the song "How many Kings?" I pray you listen and allow the words to speak new meaning to you during this Christmas season. <br />
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How many fathers (mothers) gave up their sons for me?....Only one did that for me and you! Thank you Lord for the relationship you made available to us through the birth and death of Your son, Jesus Christ. <br />
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Today, I unwrap the gift of our Lord, the Great I AM, who became the least for me. May we all celebrate Jesus' birthday with a new appreciation and understanding this year. <br />
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Happy Birthday Jesus!<br />
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I wish you all a Merry Christmas!!!<br />
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Unwrapping His gifts,<br />
Tonya </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-81569525930029155712011-12-13T10:20:00.000-05:002011-12-13T10:20:46.120-05:00A Baby Changes Everything - Part 3Angels visit the shepherds<br />
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<strong>Luke 2:8-18</strong><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">8</span> And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="9" style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">9</span> An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="10" style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">10</span> But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="11" style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">11</span> Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="12" style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">12</span> This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="13" style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">13</span> Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="14" style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">14</span> "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="15" style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">15</span> When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="16" style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">16</span> So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="17" style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">17</span> When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="18" style="text-align: left;"><em><strong><span class="versenum">18</span> and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. </strong></em></div><div class="versetext" id="19" style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="versetext" style="text-align: left;">Today, when a mom gives birth, birth announcements are usually sent by text message, facebook status update, blog post, article in a newspaper, or by mailing newborn picture cards announcing the new addition to the family. This modern technology is so cool and appreciated, but it does not compare at all to the birth announcement that our Savior had!</div><div class="versetext" style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="versetext" style="text-align: left;">Shepherds were keeping watch over their flock at night when an angel of the Lord appeared before them. The King James version tells us in verse 9 that the shepherds were 'sore' afraid when the angel appeared. Merriam-Webster gives the following definition for <strong><em>sore</em>:</strong></div><div class="versetext" style="text-align: left;"> a. causing pain or distress</div><div class="versetext" style="text-align: left;"> b. painfully sensitive</div><div class="versetext" style="text-align: left;">These shepherds were <em>painfully</em> terrified! Can you imagine yourself in a field tending to flock, minding your own business, and all of a sudden an angel appears before you with the glory of the Lord shining all around? Yeah, I think WE would be scared to the point of <em>pain</em> as well! :)</div><div class="versetext" style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="versetext" style="text-align: left;">The shepherds were terrified, but their fear quickly turned to joy as the angel shared the greatest birth announcement EVER; the birth of Christ the Lord! The angel proceeded to tell the shepherds that the baby had been born in the town of David. But how would the shepherds know which newborn baby would be Christ the Lord? Well, the angel gave specific details in what the shepherds were to look for. The angel described that the baby would be wrapped in cloths (<strong>VERY</strong> common for newborns) <em>and lying in a manger </em>(<strong>NOT</strong> common for newborns). Now, that is the sign to remember!<br />
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Then the heavenly choir showed up! A multitude of great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel and began praising God. Can you picture this revival? It's the middle of the night in a field with sheep, angels are present with an angelic glow as they sing praises to God, and shepherds have their hands lifted toward heaven in worship of our Savior's birth! What a sight to imagine!!! <br />
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The shepherds were so overwhelmed with joy and excitement that they <em>hurried</em> off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, <em>lying in a manger</em>! The shepherd's mission was accomplished and they shared the great news with everyone! <br />
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Today, I unwrap the gift of our GREAT and GLORIOUS God humbling himself through the unlikely package of being born in a stable, <em>lying in a manger</em>! He deserved so much better, but chose the lowly setting of a manger for our King so that His glory would be clearly displayed. <br />
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To be continued...<br />
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Unwrapping the gift of Jesus,<br />
Tonya<br />
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</div>Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-16230435343716201992011-12-06T10:26:00.040-05:002011-12-06T10:42:41.585-05:00A Baby Changes Everything - Part 2<div class="versetext">An Angel appears to Joseph in a dream.<br />
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<strong>Matthew 1:18-25</strong><br />
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<div class="versetext" id="18"><em><span class="versenum">18</span> This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. </em></div><div class="versetext" id="19"><em><span class="versenum">19</span> Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. </em></div><div class="versetext" id="20"><em><span class="versenum">20</span> But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. </em></div><div class="versetext" id="21"><em><span class="versenum">21</span> She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." </em></div><div class="versetext" id="22"><em><span class="versenum">22</span> All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: </em></div><div class="versetext" id="23"><em><span class="versenum">23</span> "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"--which means, "God with us." </em></div><div class="versetext" id="24"><em><span class="versenum">24</span> When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. </em></div><div class="versetext" id="25"><em><span class="versenum">25</span> But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.</em></div><div class="versetext"><br />
Mary, while <em>just</em> engaged to Joseph, is found to be with child as a result of a miraculous conception by the Holy Spirit. Can you imagine the gossip that probably traveled among the enemies of Jesus once they found out about this virgin woman giving birth to Jesus? Oh, I bet there were a LOT of whispering conversations with glaring, judgemental eyes in Mary and Joseph's days. </div><div class="versetext"> <br />
</div><div class="versetext">Joseph was having a hard time dealing with her news of pregnancy. He was a righteous man and did not want to marry someone that had been unfaithful to him. He decides that he will divorce Mary quietly to keep her from public disgrace. (Remember, the <em>engagement</em> was binding in the Jewish culture, so Joseph would need a divorce to break the engagement). I can only imagine the worry and distress Joseph went through at this time, but God would soon deliver a message to him.<br />
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God sends an angel to speak to Joseph in a dream. The angel shares that the child that has been conceived in Mary is of the Holy Spirit. (It seems that Mary had not disclosed this little bit of information to Joseph. How would you explain such a thing to anyone? I guess that's why God sent the angel to explain it to Joseph). The angel gives Joseph instruction as to what to name the child and that he is being sent from God for a reason. This baby to be named, Jesus, is being sent to save his people from their sins. (Whoah! Thank you Jesus for meeting us in our sins, but mostly for your purpose of saving us from them!) </div><br />
<div class="versetext">When Joseph awoke, he had a whole new understanding of Mary's pregnancy. He took her home as his wife. He had no union with her until she gave birth to a son and just as the Lord commanded him, Joseph gave the baby the name Jesus.</div><div class="versetext"><br />
</div><div class="versetext">Today, I unwrap the gift of a miraculous conception and birth of Jesus. I praise God for the awesome marriage counseling that he delivered through the angel in Joseph's dream! </div><div class="versetext"><br />
</div><div class="versetext">Rejoicing in these gifts,</div><div class="versetext"> </div><div class="versetext">Tonya</div><div class="versetext"></div> </div><div class="versetext"></div>Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-63509583606701570472011-12-06T09:27:00.000-05:002011-12-06T09:27:42.703-05:00A Baby Changes Everything - Part 1A post from a fellow blogger has sparked an interest in me to "unwrap" Jesus in a new way this Christmas season by being fully present with Him and allowing every one of my senses to come alive so that I may receive everything that He has for me. <br />
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I will be blogging a multiple-part series of posts titled "A Baby Changes Everything" over the next couple of weeks. I pray that God will bless and encourage us both as we go through this "unwrapping Jesus" journey together this Christmas season!<br />
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<strong>Luke 1:26-63</strong><br />
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<h4><em>The Birth of Jesus Foretold</em></h4><div class="versetext" id="26"><em><span class="versenum">26</span> In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, </em></div><div class="versetext" id="27"><em><span class="versenum">27</span> to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. </em></div><div class="versetext" id="28"><em><span class="versenum">28</span> The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you." </em></div><div class="versetext" id="29"><em><span class="versenum">29</span> Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. </em></div><div class="versetext" id="30"><em><span class="versenum">30</span> But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. </em></div><div class="versetext" id="31"><em><span class="versenum">31</span> You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. </em></div><div class="versetext" id="32"><em><span class="versenum">32</span> He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, </em></div><div class="versetext" id="33"><em><span class="versenum">33</span> and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end." </em></div><div class="versetext" id="34"><em><span class="versenum">34</span> "How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" </em></div><div class="versetext" id="35"><em><span class="versenum">35</span> The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. </em></div><div class="versetext" id="36"><em><span class="versenum">36</span> Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. </em></div><div class="versetext" id="37"><em><span class="versenum">37</span> For nothing is impossible with God." </em></div><div class="versetext" id="38"><em><span class="versenum">38</span> "I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her. </em></div><br />
God sent the angel, Gabriel, to Mary. He informed Mary that God had favor upon her and that she would give birth to Jesus. Mary had to put forth a LOT of faith and trust because she was a virgin and I am sure she was somewhat worried as to how she would be sharing this news with Joseph of a baby. At this time, did you know that Mary was betrothed to Joseph? There were 3 stages to a Jewish wedding back then: engagement (a formal agreement made by the fathers) betrothal (the ceremony where faithful promises were made) and marriage (appoximately a year later, the groom will come for the bride at an unexpected time). Mary and Joseph were just in the (promise ring) stage of their relationship and she was still a virgin, but she was to be with a baby.<br />
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To be continued.... <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em><strong>A Baby Changes Everything - Faith Hill</strong></em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Blessings,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tonya</div>Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-6491921621555963462011-11-30T12:40:00.000-05:002011-11-30T12:40:15.942-05:00What's Mine is Mine...Or is it?<strong><em>Acts 4:32-33 "Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. <u>And great grace was upon them all."</u></em></strong><br />
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This scripture paints a picture of a sharing heart in the early church. Christians were united and regarded people more important than things. They acknowledged God's ownership of everything and shared everything to meet the needs of others. These Christians were not saying "What is yours is mine; I'll take it", they were saying "What is mine is yours; I'll share it." <br />
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The lessons we can learn from the early church! Some people may say that this radical sharing of possessions among the early church was a mistake. Others will say that it was an awesome blessing and act of Godly love. For me, I say that in today's church, we need to heed to the lesson being taught in this scripture and share the love. <br />
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Why would we NOT desire to help a brother or sister in need? You know, the one sitting on the same pew with you that you KNOW is need of clothes, food, shelter, money for bills, or even gifts for Christmas. We all have possessions that sit in a cabinet, closet, or storage building that we keep just to store. We don't really need these items, but for some reason we don't want to part with them. Why not take those items and bless someone that could really use them? Sometimes, we Christians just need to clean out our closets, literally! <br />
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Grace is God's favor, His smile from heaven, and it was upon the Christians of the early church. I know God was pleased with their attitudes of putting God first, people second, and material things last. I pray that we all would seek this same attitude as we approach this Christmas season and also continue it in our daily lives. Be a blessing to someone today! <br />
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I also want to mention two events that are taking place in our small town to bless others but are in need of donations from you. <br />
<ul><li><strong><u>Kimi's Blessings</u></strong> - This ministry was birthed through a local, young lady that suffered from a brain tumor several years ago as a teenager. Praise be to God, today she lives a normal, healthy, and vibrant life. Every year at Christmas time, she gathers donations and gifts to deliver to Egleston Children's Hospital in Atlanta, GA to bless children that are not able to be home for Christmas. <em><u>New</u></em> toys may be donated and dropped off at Piggly Wiggly or Central Bank in Ellaville. If you would like to donate money to help this cause, you may drop it off at Central Bank with Kimi. </li>
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<ul><li><strong><u>Christmas for Christ</u></strong> - This ministry has proved to bless many families and homes at Christmas. From the generous donations of household items from people, a local gymnasium is filled with clothes, toys, furniture, etc. This is a free event to people in need. People come to receive gifts to meet their physical needs, but they often receive so much more...the gift of salvation and Christ's love shining through the volunteers that are working to bless them. Items for this benefit can be dropped off at Fripp Storage Buildings in Ellaville or by contacting Stephen Fripp.</li>
</ul>Lord, I pray for your blessings on these two ministries as they bless others! May you always be first and glorified in all that they do. I pray that they minister to the heart and lives of others in your name. May you find grace and favor upon each person that serves or receives from these ministries! Amen!<br />
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Love in Christ,<br />
Tonya<br />
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Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-76856220042210530942011-11-29T11:07:00.000-05:002011-11-29T11:07:56.658-05:00Sing A Song!This past Sunday in Sunday School, we talked about Moses singing a song to a rebellious Israel. Moses transposed a song from the message God had given him to share. <br />
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<strong><em>Deu 31:30 "And Moses recited the words of this song from beginning to end in the hearing of the whole assembly of Israel."</em></strong> (Moses recites the song in Deuteronomy 32)<br />
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Moses had been preaching, but his assembly was having a hard time understanding, you think? So in order to teach them more clearly, he teaches them a song. Moses' song teaches about God's faithfulness, people's sin, repentance and salvation. Moses delivered this sermon through song!<br />
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I love music and singing (even though I don't have the best voice). So many times, God will speak a message to me through the many Christian songs that I listen to and sing along with. He uses song to help comfort me when I am having a bad day or gives me a song to sing when I want to shout with praise to Him.<br />
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Why do we sing songs? Have you ever thought about that? Songs remind us of what God has done for us and often times how we should respond to His mercy and grace on us. Let's sing a few songs together today. :)<br />
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Click the song titles and happy singing!!! I challenge you to listen to these songs and allow God to change your outlook today as He ministers to you through song! <br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxMgUgxafeY" target="_blank">Sing a Song - Third Day</a> (I want to sing a song for you Lord!)<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7eZD3TKn_M&ob=av3e" target="_blank">Shackles - Mary Mary</a> (Take these shackles off so I can praise You! - Go ahead, get up and dance on this one - it will definitely make you want to!!!) <br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ii2THk_yR3Q" target="_blank">This Little Light of Mine - Addison Road</a> (Go ahead...let it shine!)<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oF5CjtrIl_c" target="_blank">Someone Worth Dying For - Mikes Chair</a> (Yes, you are worth dying for!)<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MWGJ5EFjkE" target="_blank">Spirit Wind - Casting Crowns</a> - (Struggling with dry bones? Be revived with the spirit wind of the Lord!) And of course, I could not share songs without at least one Casting Crowns song, because they are my favorite! Lol! <br />
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The next time you feel led to give God praise...don't hesitate in lifting your hands, stomping your foot, or even breaking out with a Holy sway as you glorify God! God created song and music to minister to us and for us to sound even sweeter when we praise Him! :)<br />
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Praising Him through song and dance today,<br />
<br />
Tonya<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ku7ABNdn_jWmUujNLdMfo5EcR8_ADjvcQa3EI4rDaO4o8VWfeeyiGk8wURb_zW8MHKv_J3JZJo2tY5l10s4y1cxqjchXbVCnUDtn5VmYnUOxCkiepQR-YN00D4VW4Vm3DLBqSnCtvzcC/s1600/9_funny_dancing_kitty.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ku7ABNdn_jWmUujNLdMfo5EcR8_ADjvcQa3EI4rDaO4o8VWfeeyiGk8wURb_zW8MHKv_J3JZJo2tY5l10s4y1cxqjchXbVCnUDtn5VmYnUOxCkiepQR-YN00D4VW4Vm3DLBqSnCtvzcC/s1600/9_funny_dancing_kitty.gif" /></a></div>Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-2095192505035997792011-11-15T12:16:00.003-05:002011-11-15T13:18:07.343-05:00Bless You!<strong><em>Acts 3:26 "When God raised up his servant, Jesus, he sent him first to you people of Israel, to <span style="color: red;"><u>bless</u></span> you by turning each of you back from your sinful ways."</em></strong> <br />
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<strong> <u>Bless:</u></strong> <strong>1. </strong>To make holy by religious rite; sanctify.<br />
<strong>2. </strong>To invoke divine favor upon. <br />
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Our 'nature' is sinful. We all have struggles of some kind, and at times we may feel as though we cannot overcome the sin that is striving to take control of our lives but thankfully there is hope and a future for us!<br />
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This morning as I was reading my bible, this scripture literally jumped off the page at me and spoke to my spirit. I know God sent his son to die for my (our) sins, but I have never looked at it from the point of view that He sent Jesus to <strong><em>bless</em></strong> me. I don't know of anyone that doesn't like to blessed by others. But why would I not see that God sent Jesus to <em><strong>bless</strong></em> me??<br />
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How does that make you feel to know that Jesus was sent to <em><strong>bless</strong></em> you; to make you holy; to sanctify you; to invoke divine favor upon you? Oh, dear friend, He loves you so much that He stepped down from His throne to romance a world that has fallen apart. How many Fathers do you know that have gave up their sons for you (me)? Only <strong>ONE</strong> did that for me and you! He did it to <strong><em>bless</em></strong> us!<br />
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I was reminded of a video that I had watched years ago not long after I had received salvation from the Lord. This video is an awesome visual of what it may have been like for God to watch his son die for others. Please watch and be blessed by hopefully understanding more about the love God has for you and His desire to <em><strong>bless</strong></em> you.<br />
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If you are receiving this by email, please click <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZN8HQ8vKNE&feature=player_embedded#!">here</a> to watch video. <br />
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I pray that mine and your heart may be touched and changed today as you see in a different light the action of being blessed by God. <br />
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Thank you Lord for the many blessings you have poured out to me even though I don't deserve them. I pray that I will consistently turn away from sin that you bring to my attention and that I would know that You are always there loving and blessing me. Amen!<br />
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Praising our King of Kings!<br />
TonyaTonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-64498221945388252652011-10-13T14:45:00.000-04:002011-10-13T14:45:12.104-04:00One Accord<em><strong>Acts 2:1 "When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place."</strong></em><br />
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Whether or not the disciples were in the temple or in their own upper room, we find they were <i><b>all together in one place</b></i>. However, don't forget how often, while their Master was with them, <em>there were strifes among them, such as who should be the greatest</em>; but now all these strifes had ended and they were <strong><em>all</em></strong> in <strong><em>one accord</em>. </strong>They all had the same goal and mission for their Lord. <br />
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<strong>United-Believers</strong> is something that has been weighing heavy in my spirit and heart lately. With the upcoming date for our ladies retreat, my heart's desire has been to unite 'Sisters in Christ' from different churches and communities. We all have the same goals and missions...so why would we not come together as one for the sake of the Lord? Why do we not fellowship or pray together more than what we do? Could it be distractions of life? Could it be strife of who should be the greatest? Could it be fear of the different styles of worship? If allowed, we could come up with many questions and excuses, but please listen with your heart to what I would like to share with you.<br />
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Do you have<em> faith</em> in the Lord? Do you find <em>hope</em> in the Lord? Do you <em><span style="color: red;">love</span></em> the Lord? <br />
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<em><strong>Corithians 13:13</strong></em> "And now <span class="criteria">these</span> three remain: faith, hope and <span style="color: red;">love</span>. <strong><em>But the <span class="criteria">greatest</span> <span class="criteria">of</span> <span class="criteria">these</span> is<span style="color: red;"> love</span></em>." </strong><br />
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Brothers and sisters, this is what it's all about...<strong><span style="color: red;">LOVE</span></strong>. If we love the Lord, then have to acknowledge that we are commanded to <span style="color: red;">love</span> each other. <em>Luke 10:27</em> "He answered: '<span class="criteria"><span style="color: red;">Love</span></span> the Lord your God with <em><strong>all</strong></em> your <span style="color: red;">heart</span> and with <em><strong>all</strong></em> your <span style="color: black;">soul</span> and with <em><strong>all</strong></em> your strength and with <em><strong>all</strong></em> your mind'; and, '<span class="criteria"><span style="color: red;">Love</span></span> your <span class="criteria"><span style="color: red;">neighbor</span></span> as yourself." <br />
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In Acts 2:1, the disciples display the perfect example of coming together as <em><strong>one</strong></em> accord. Each one was unique and different in some way, but the<span style="color: red;"> love</span> they shared for the Lord is what united them and allowed them to be the witnesses that they were to spread the gospel.<br />
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Lord, may we <em><strong>all</strong></em> agree to <span style="color: red;">love</span> one another, serve, and worship as your united family as we share the gospel to this lost world! Fill our hearts and souls with your Spirit and command blessings upon us when You see our unity as good and pleasant for your glory. Amen!<br />
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<strong><em>Psalm 133:1</em></strong> <em>"A song of ascents. Of David. How <strong>good</strong> and <strong>pleasant</strong> it is when <strong>brothers (sisters)</strong> <strong>live</strong> together in <strong>unity</strong>!" </em><br />
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Please join us at this year's ladies retreat for a time of <em>united</em> <span style="color: red;">sweetness</span> with the Lord! Click <a href="http://www.beyondthemasquerade.eventbrite.com/">here</a> for more information and/or to register. Hope and pray we see you there!<br />
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Your blood-bought sister,<br />
<em><strong>Tonya</strong></em><br />
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Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-21062606882092417352011-09-28T10:03:00.000-04:002011-09-28T10:03:55.470-04:00Zero or Hero?<em><strong>1 Chronicles 4:10 "Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request."</strong></em><br />
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Who in the world is this Jabez person? What is he doing in only two verses of the bible? What is so special about Jabez that a man would be inspired to write a book about him? Further more, the book became a best seller and has sold over 15 million copies? I mean, the man is only mentioned in<em><strong> two</strong></em> verses in the bible? What is so special about him and what can we learn from him?<br />
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My friend, there is such a <strong>profound</strong> word to receive from the this man known as Jabez! Jabez is not known for some heroic action but he is known for his <strong><em>heroic prayer</em></strong>! Jabez was no zero; He most certainly was a hero! I have often heard people say that you should not pray for yourself, but only for others. For some reason, we have the perception that praying for ourselves makes us selfish. <em><strong>But</strong></em> Jabez displays a different picture in 1 Chronicles 4:10.<br />
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Jabez prayed for God to enlarge his territory! He prayed for God to keep His hand on him at all times to protect him from harm and free of pain! Jabez desired to more than just the average Christian. He didn't want to be ordinary, he wanted to be extraordinary! He didn't want to sit the bench, he wanted his coach to use him in the game wherever and as much as He needed him! <strong>And God granted his request!</strong><br />
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So, do you think Jabez was being selfish for his prayer? Absolutely not! I believe Jabez was being as sincere and humbled as he could be in his mighty prayer to the Lord. What a <em><strong>confident</strong></em> and <em><strong>bold</strong></em> prayer request he made! <br />
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I have been seeking God in prayer to be more confident and bold in Him. Being confident and bold in Christ is more than standing up for Him in this world...it is receiving His spirit and running just as hard as you can after Him continuously! Jabez said a confident and bold prayer, and God granted his request. What if we all exercised the 'Jabez mentality'? Wow! The blessings that would flow, the territories that would be enlarged, and the abilities that would be bestowed in reaching people that we think are unreachable!<br />
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Are you up for the challenge of requesting a sincere-heroic prayer such as Jabez? For someone that is scarcely mentioned in the bible, his short prayer was (is) an abundant blessing! <br />
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Lord, bless me and enlarge my territory for Your glory! Keep your hand on me at all times guiding and keeping me free from harm and pain. God, hear my cry and grant my request! Amen.<br />
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Your sister in Christ,<br />
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Tonya<br />
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Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-92125962121941405662011-09-23T09:36:00.000-04:002011-09-23T09:36:15.996-04:00Happy Week-End!Whew! Happy Week-End! I must say this has been one of the busiest yet most relaxing week in Jesus's arms that I have had in a long time! I have loved spending time and sharing with each of my iStudy Bible ladies and just soaking up God's word this week! If you haven't visited Melissa's blog this morning, cruise on over there and check out her 'gotta get down' Friday video. <a href="http://www.melissataylor.org/">http://www.melissataylor.org/</a> It will certainly lighten up your morning and put a smile on your face! <br />
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Today, let's reflect back on what we have read this week and what God has spoken to each of us through His word, and pray that God will help us to apply it to our lives faithfully. This doesn't just apply to our iStudy Bible group. This is for you too my blogger friend! What have you been talking to God about this week in your quiet time with Him? What has He revealed to you? Has He answered yes or no to your prayers? Just receive whatever He has been saying to you and share your joy in Him with someone! <br />
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iStudy ladies, have you been working on your memory verse for this week? Can you fill in the blanks today? Can you recite it without any help? Give it a try and if you feel confident enough, do a short video of yourself reciting the verse and share it on facebook on Melissa's Online Study page! This task may take a little more encouragement and prayer for me...videos of myself scare me! But lookout youtube world...I'm coming soon! Ladies, we will take the weekend off, but I look forward to meeting up with you via the internet world on Monday!<br />
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So __ not ___ ____ your _______; it will be _____ _______. You _____ to ________ so that _____ you ____ ____ the ___ of ___, you will ______ what __ ___ _____.<br />
~ _______ 10:35-36<br />
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Have a great weekend! Spend time with your family at a football game, hunting, shopping, or whatever you like to do with your loved ones!<br />
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Striving to hold onto confidence,<br />
TonyaTonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-35953204025214651922011-09-20T10:24:00.011-04:002011-09-20T14:46:39.960-04:00Bible "iStudy" GroupDo you have a quiet time in the morning with just you and the Lord? I can honestly say that on the days that I rise earlier and start my day with Jesus before anything else, it makes for a more confident and stable day in my life. What about you? Can you tell a difference between starting your day with God and starting one without Him? Now, I know that there are days that we awake very tired and would rather get that extra 30 minutes of sleep instead of rising to read the word of life. I have these kinds of days just like anyone else and I desperately need a sister or someone to hold me accountable and encourage me in my moments of weakness. That is exactly why I started what we call an “iStudy” bible group. This study group doesn’t meet once a week at someone’s house or at the local coffee shop (where I live that would be the Chevron Gas Station), or at the church. We all have busy schedules and really didn’t have time to add another morning or evening meeting to our calendars and thought that an approach with the new technology would be more convenient. So, we meet via phone, text, email, facebook, blog, etc. We will share something that God spoke to us during our quiet time to encourage each other and it will serve as a great way of using different technologies to hold each other accountable in spending time with God daily. <br />
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Our group consists of five to six women. If this sounds like something that you think you would like to participate in, give it a thought and pray for God to lead you with whom to share in your group. I would encourage you to keep your study group small (3-7 people) so that you are not overloaded with trying to communicate 20 or so emails, phone calls, texts, etc. each day. Also, keep in mind that you probably will have someone to drop out of your group at some point in time. That’s ok. Your group will change from time to time. Just look at it as God moving and adjusting for His will! <br />
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<em>Today, I am blogging about my quiet time in my effort of sharing with my ‘iStudy’ sister group as well as you, my blogger friend. </em><br />
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My quiet time this morning was in <em><strong>1 John 1:2. "The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us."</strong></em><br />
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God came into this world as human. The disciples seen and testified of Him. They still testify of Him today thru the living word of God. The disciples were so blessed to have been able to physically walk and talk with Jesus! They witnessed firsthand Jesus' life and work on this earth. As I began meditating and praying over this scripture, I realized I was becoming somewhat jealous of the disciples. <br />
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At the time of John writing the book of 1 John, he was the last disciple living that had an eye witness account of Jesus. Although John had been exiled to the island of Patmos, he continued his letters of testimony and leading Christians.<br />
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John was considered the one whom Jesus loved. Can you imagine being the last person alive that had witnessed God walking the earth in human form or being known as the one whom God loved? Well, let’s give it a try. Fill in the blank with your name. _________<em><strong> is</strong></em> the one whom Jesus <em><strong>loves</strong></em>. ________<em><strong> is</strong></em> the one whom I wait for daily to spend time with. <br />
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When I felt that sense of jealousy creeping up inside of me this morning as I was praying, this is exactly what I heard God say to me. <span style="color: red;">“Tonya, I consider you whom I love very much! Although you may not have witnessed with your eyes my life of walking the earth in human form, I am still there with you and you have witnessed my miracles and work many times. I wait for you daily to talk with me. I appear before you in ways that you often overlook, because at times you are so busy that you miss the sight of me. I am so delighted to call you my daughter and I am very thankful you spent time with me this morning. I love you, my child!” </span><br />
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My friend, we are a lot like John and the other disciples. We witness and hear from God daily. We are called to share our story about Jesus just like the disciples did! I pray that you slow down enough today to see Jesus and to look for ways to share Him with someone. <br />
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Blessings,<br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: inherit;">Tonya</span>Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-15604366165163148352011-09-03T09:30:00.000-04:002011-09-03T09:30:57.961-04:00Faith over FeelingsHave you ever seen the movie, Facing the Giants? There is a scene in this movie where a football player participates in an exercise called "The Death Crawl." The player expresses his 'feelings' of not being able to complete the task, but his coach has more 'faith' in him and encourages him not to give up. His original goal was doing the crawl for 30 yards, his coach believed he could do 50 yards, and he finishes in the end zone! Watch the clip from the movie. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last night, my family watched this movie again for like the 100th time. Every time I watch it, God speaks a new message to me! Recently, I have allowed feelings of fear, uncertainty, opposition and discouragement from others to consume me. I had began to allow these feelings to overcome my faith. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In this scene of the movie, I became overwhelmed. I began to picture the coach as God. I began to hear the words from the coach as words from God. I began hearing Jesus spur me on in a time where I didn't know how much more I could do. I began to choose and receive <em>faith</em> over my <em>feelings</em>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Whatever troubles you may have today; Whatever opposition you may be facing; Whatever lies satan may be whispering in your ear; How ever beaten down you may be feeling from the ways of the world; <strong><em>DON'T GIVE UP!</em></strong> The Lord is our strength! He is right there beside you, encouraging and coaching you for the entire race! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lord, I will give you my best! I will be the leader you have called me to be! When I hurt and find myself in the wilderness alone, I will not give up! Who am I? Lord, I am yours! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Choosing Faith over Feelings,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tonya</div>Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-72043625853009400752011-08-08T09:45:00.000-04:002011-08-08T09:45:33.339-04:00Call Upon His Name<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Do you ever have those nights when you tuck the youngsters into bed and as soon as you leave their room they are calling out for 'mama'? I have heard every question possible to stall bedtime from our youngest son, Camron. Last night was a little different. From his bedroom, I heard him call "Mama, please come here. I need you." When I replied back and asked what he needed, he responded with "I need to pray." My oldest son was sitting in the living room with me and said that he would go and pray with Camron. The love that Ryan has for his youngest brother is so pure and sweet! It filled me with such joy to see 'big' brother stepping in to comfort baby brother in prayer. Camron was having anxiety from bad thoughts that were filling his little mind. As Camron led the prayer, he was asking God to protect his family, for no one to go back to the beach (shark week created this fear) and for no ants to get in our house. I just love the innocence and faith that a child displays to God! He was trusting God to take care of something as simple as keeping ants from coming into our home. Most importantly, it fills me with such joy to see my seven year old calling upon the Lord in his time of need. He was seeking his refuge in the Lord! What a great way to end the night and an awesome way to begin his week! </span></div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNDoZj-BNSHx7Yjmnup4C1Q00FHW4M4cA0kjC1xhMsRZRouomZYK0RemWp0wTFWMSXovdvTEDOIv4R66NIPj6s1sTVMLaysn6XWtHI3xWK5AnSgNGN_JB54_a6LftshyYn1Dqo0k-6Eae/s1600/0807112125%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" naa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNDoZj-BNSHx7Yjmnup4C1Q00FHW4M4cA0kjC1xhMsRZRouomZYK0RemWp0wTFWMSXovdvTEDOIv4R66NIPj6s1sTVMLaysn6XWtHI3xWK5AnSgNGN_JB54_a6LftshyYn1Dqo0k-6Eae/s1600/0807112125%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a><br />
(Ryan and Camron praying 8-7-11)<br />
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Calling Upon His Name,<br />
Tonya<br />
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Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-50654888497657073112011-07-28T09:12:00.000-04:002011-07-28T09:12:15.503-04:00Unexpected Blessing!Last night I had a date night with Camron. He was so called 'starving' and wanted to eat Chinese. I was hoping for a quiet dinner with just the two of us but things got interrupted. The hostess sat us in a booth next to a man that was dining by himself. Out of the blue, the man began conversing with us. To be honest, at first I was trying to avoid the conversation but I soon felt the holy spirit leading me to go ahead and engage in talking with the man. <br />
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As we were conversing, Camron piped in and said to the man, "My mom is married. Do you know my daddy?" (I couldn't help but laugh silently at his remark) The man replied that he was not from here and didn't know anyone. He stated that he travels through many states delivering medical equipment. <br />
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As we prepared our plates and sat down to eat, Camron asked the blessing. Afterwards, the gentleman asked what Church we went to. I replied but didn't have time to ask him where he goes to church because Camron was taking control of the conversation. Camron asked the man where he went to church and proceeded to talk about God with the man. What a BLESSING to watch my child not be afraid to talk about God with a total stranger in a public place! <br />
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The man finished his dinner and said goodbye. Camron and I both encouraged him to travel safely as he began his journey on the road back home. He walked away and Camron and I resumed finishing our meal. After a few minutes, the man returned and proceeded to tell me that our bill had been taken care of and that he had been blessed so much during dinner conversing with us that he wanted to bless us in return. I was overwhelmed with shock and humbled to the fact that a complete stranger would want to bless me! <br />
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After the man left, Camron looked at me with his big, brown eyes and said "Mama, that was really nice of that man to pay for our supper." Together we discussed what a blessing and great example this was of Jesus' love. I guess Camron really let it soak it in about being a blessing to others because on the way home he put his hand on my shoulder and said to me "Mama, you sure are pretty with your earrings and I am so grateful for you." Now, you talk about melting a mother's heart! God knew exactly what He was doing when He <em><strong>surprisingly</strong></em> blessed us with Camron 7 years ago. He brings so much joy and love into our lives and I am so proud of the young fellow that he is.<br />
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Hebrews 13:2 "Do not forget to <span class="criteria">entertain</span> strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained <span class="criteria">angels</span> without knowing it."<br />
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Love in Christ,<br />
TonyaTonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-42896708641341871432011-07-27T15:34:00.000-04:002011-07-27T15:34:52.255-04:00Confessions of a Jesus GIRLConfession #1 - I may appear to have it all together, but I am still missing pieces of my puzzle!<br />
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Confession #2 - I may appear to have conquered a lot of sin in my life, but there is so much more sin to be dealt with.<br />
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Confession #3 - I am FAR from the perfect wife!<br />
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Confession #4 - Confession #3 leads me to this...I am FAR from the perfect mother!<br />
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Confession #5 - I am not always correct. (Although, I wish I was) Lol!<br />
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Confession #6 - I strive to do the things that are right, but yet I still crave those McDonald's french fries.<br />
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Confession #7 - I may seem to be confident in who I am, but I struggle with many unbeknownst insecurities.<br />
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Confession #8 - You may think I know the bible, but truth is I will never know enough!<br />
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Confession #9 - You may think my marriage is perfect, but my marriage has its moments of struggle just like anyone else. <br />
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Confession #10 - As much <u>good</u> as there is in my life, there is still <strong><em>plenty </em></strong>of <u>bad</u> to be corrected!<br />
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You may be asking yourself "Why is Tonya giving confession today?" To be honest, I am not real sure myself, but I believe God has a purpose for it. Sometimes we have to be humbled in order to become great! <br />
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Humbled in spirit,<br />
TonyaTonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-25767688738275951782011-07-19T14:55:00.001-04:002011-07-19T14:55:57.908-04:00Check out The 7-day Doubt Diet<p>Do you want to join me in losing the weight of discouragement and self-doubt? <a href="http://gotaf.socialtwist.com/redirect?l=1newn"><strong>Renee Swope</strong></a>, from <a href="http://gotaf.socialtwist.com/redirect?l=1newo"><strong>Proverbs 31 Ministries</strong></a> is offering a FREE “7-day Doubt Diet.” Just <a href="http://gotaf.socialtwist.com/redirect?l=1newp"><strong>click here</strong></a> to enter your information in her sidebar, and you’ll receive a week’s worth of devotions from her upcoming book, <a href="http://gotaf.socialtwist.com/redirect?l=1newn"><em><strong>A Confident Heart</strong></em></a>. Let me know so we encourage one another along the way.</p><p> </p><p>Seeking to be confident of who I am in Christ,</p><p> </p><p>Tonya</p>Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-79525595647745809782011-07-15T10:34:00.000-04:002011-07-15T10:34:58.324-04:00Appreciation Days...Last Friday, July 8, 2011, was "Cow Appreciation Day" at Chick-fil-A. As we arrived, we were shocked at all the vehicles and busyness of this restaurant on the outside. We parked and approached the entry doors. It was almost like being in a dream or something as we entered. As I looked around, I became excited and joyful with the sight of people dressed like cows! From the youngest child to the oldest elder, there were all these cute t-shirts and costumes of black and white cows. This particular day represented appreciation to the Chick-fil-A customers. If you humbled yourself in dressing like a cow, then you would be blessed in return with free chicken! I have said that Chick-fil-A has had one of the best sale pitches of all times with the whole save a cow and eat more chicken ads. What a blessing this franchise is to people across our nation. May God continue to bless Chick-fil-A as it blesses others!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKTk81hthFTtsPFaUm6m_WAHSlIxaCWsRM3KZjwGxIJIJ6YZlqtKdZd-M7I8wtpx9NMWjyMx480Uo9jtYzJJEvd2oYMPd69-xWAADa0AjjyB3HFQmhyWQFD5dCFGSfUGLVWb49AGGAbPfi/s1600/0708111254%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKTk81hthFTtsPFaUm6m_WAHSlIxaCWsRM3KZjwGxIJIJ6YZlqtKdZd-M7I8wtpx9NMWjyMx480Uo9jtYzJJEvd2oYMPd69-xWAADa0AjjyB3HFQmhyWQFD5dCFGSfUGLVWb49AGGAbPfi/s320/0708111254%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
"Food for Thought" - Everyday is 'Appreciation Day' in Christ! He gives us the 'free' gift of salvation, water for the thirsty, and food for the hungry everyday if we choose to participate in daily living with Him! <br />
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Matthew 5:6 <em>"Blessed are those who hunger and <span class="criteria">thirst</span> for righteousness, for they will be filled."</em><br />
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John 4:14 <em>"but whoever drinks the water I give him will never <span class="criteria">thirst</span>. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."</em><br />
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Humbling myself more and more for Him,<br />
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Tonya <br />
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<img class="rg_hi" data-height="98" data-width="120" height="98" id="rg_hi" src="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSEWzmMsaocWFNO2uAp7Su0gTgOQhdFMl2myr1OD5D7Sxaztq-Dlw" style="height: 98px; width: 120px;" width="120" />Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-22041709879919341712011-07-01T23:21:00.000-04:002011-07-01T23:21:27.472-04:00Fire is Contagious!Do you ever feel as though your fire has been put out? When you find yourself having a bad day, in the middle of a tough situation, or just plain out tired of satan's mess - Trust in the Lord to see you through and find encouragement from others whose light is shining bright for Christ! I encourage you to visit Jennifer Fripp's website and be encouraged by her latest blog.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jennfripp.blogspot.com/">Not all fires are made to be extinguished!</a><br />
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Burning Love for Christ,<br />
Tonya Tonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579235394330462367.post-32892044258679869162011-07-01T12:27:00.000-04:002011-07-01T12:27:55.330-04:00Winner is Announced!Thank you to everyone who participated in the 'Heaven is for Real' book giveaway! I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the scripture that everyone shared! It is so awesome how God's word speaks to each of us! May God continue to bless each one of you!<br />
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And the winner is............<br />
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Tammy P.<br />
<a href="mailto:tphagan2006@yahoo.com">tphagan2006@yahoo.com</a><br />
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Tammy, I will email you with the details of getting the book to you. Congratulations!<br />
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Love in Christ,<br />
TonyaTonya Barretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14640596307795865420noreply@blogger.com1