Prayer for the Lost and PS

Prayer for the Lost by Kaye Johns.  God knows this request can be used by almost everyone for a family member or loved one. I am no exception.  Pray it for your loved one, pray it for mine.  Let us stand strong in God's Army and be protected against the things not of this world. 

Father, hear us as we ask You to rescue the lost from the domain of darkness and bring them into the kingdom of Your Son. You alone can draw and enable them. You alone can send Your Holy Spirit with power to convict them of the sin in their life and their need to repent and believe in Your truth--that Jesus is the only way to You, that He alone is the way, the truth and the life.

Father, we ask you to forgive the sins of the lost. We come in Jesus’ name to demolish the strongholds in their minds that those sins have allowed. We come in the authority of Jesus’ name to overcome the power of the enemy in their lives, to ask You to bind evil spirits away from them in the name of Jesus and the blood of the Lamb through the word of our testimony.

We come against the blinding of their minds and ask that You send someone to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light; help us to be willing to go. Father, don’t let their hearts be hardened, but open their hearts to receive Your truth. Rip away any veil that covers their hearts, any false teaching that confuses their minds. Help them to hear your Word with power and conviction as the Word of God and not the word of man. Give them understanding, so that Satan will not be able to steal Your Word from their hearts.

Father, help them see their need for a Savior, to know they must confess their sins, repent and believe--or they perish. Help them choose Your mercy and Your gift of faith, to believe with their hearts and confess with their mouths, Jesus is Lord. We ask in Your will, that not any should perish. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Today is also Prayer and Share (PS) time at Holley's blog.  P.S. I shared this post on Heart to Heart with Holley.

Cake Wrecks: Ho Ho Horrors and more!

Do you follow Cake Wrecks either through the blog, Facebook or twitter?  If so, you know that the creaters are featuring a charity every day to help raise awareness and more importantly money for certain charities.  If I had the time, I'd be linking everything for you, but I don't.  (I shouldn't even be looking at the internet right now!)

I'm telling you because my family & I lost everything we owned in a housefire when I was 11, but we did NOT lost each other, unlike this family....I know times are tight this year for you and for everyone, however, if we each give a little ($1) it can potentially add up to a lot.  Will you give?

(Even if you can't give, you should take a daily look at Cake Wrecks.  It's good stuff!)

From Cake Wrecks:

Today's charity is something different, so I hope you'll bear with me. You see, on Tuesday night 27-year-old Amanda Buckland lost her husband, her 4-year-old son, her 8-month-old daughter, and everything they owned in a house fire. (The house they'd recently begun renting had no smoke detectors.) She and her 12-year-old stepdaughter only escaped thanks to a quick-thinking neighbor with a ladder.  (Added by Cathy - You can read about the story online.)

Take a second and think about that level of loss. I, for one, cannot even begin to fathom it.

So today, John and I are donating to the Buckland Family Trust, which was set up by Amanda's employer. I hope you'll join us by donating your dollar, too.

Go to CakeWrecks to donate and see the other links.

Put off the Old and Put on the New

The following is from the prayer journal I received from e3 Partners prior to leaving for my trip. It was a great prayer journal and it got me in the habit of journaling, which is really neat to look back on, even if just a few days, and see how God is working in your life. The list below was included in the journal and I've found it very useful and I wanted to share with you! I hope you are able to use it in your daily prayer time.

From the journal:
We put off the old and put on the new-

Consider the aspects of your "old nature" that keep getting in the way of your living the life you desire to live and put them off as Paul instructs (Ephesians 4:22-24). But don't stop there. Ask God to help you put on those opposite positive character traits that will strengthen you for His life and service, such as:

Help me to put off pride (Proverbs 16:5)--and
put on humility (James 4:6).

Help me to put off my critical nature (Galatians 5:15)--and
put on kindness (Colossians 3:12).

Help me to put off lack of love (John 4:7, 8, 20)--and
put on unconditional love (John 15:12).

Help me to put off worry (John 14:1a)---and
put on faith and trust in God (John 14:1b).

Help me to put off impatience (James 1:2-4)--and
put on patience (Hebrews 10:36).

Help me to put off unforgiveness (Mark 11:26)--and
put on forgiveness (Colossians 3:13).

Help me to put off my temper (Proverbs 25:28)--and
put on self-control (Proverbs 16:23).

Help me put off unbelief (Hebrews 3:12)--and
put on faith (Hebrews 11:1, 6).

Help me put off neglect of Bible study (2 Timothy 3:14-17)--and
put on Bible study, meditation (Psalm 1:2).

Help me put off lack of burden for the lost (Matthew 9:36-38)--and
put on compassion, witnessing (Acts 1:8).

Help me put off lies and exaggerations (Ephesians 3:25)--and
put on speaking the truth (Zechariah 8: 16).

Help me put off prayerlessness (l Samuel 12:23)--and
put on praying (I Thessalonians 5:17).

Help me put off procrastination (Proverbs 10:5)--and
put on diligence (Proverbs 27:1).

Help me put off gluttony (Proverbs 23:21)--and
put on discipline (I Corinthians 9:27).

Are there any you can put off and put on that you'd be willing to share?  I'm a work in progress and I'm so glad I can come to Him and ask to be made new.  Amen?!

(When I was looking for a picture, I came across this article from eHow - How to Keep a Prayer Journal.  So, in case you didn't know how or why, there's some instruction. Also, the article had this: A great online journaling program is Go-Journal found at http://www.go-journal.com/. Or, you can ask me or someone else.  I believe journaling and daily prayer time looks different for everyone! The picture is from the eHow site.)

Need to Forgive

"...forgive us our sins as we forgive those who have sinned against us." Matthew 6:12 TLB

We are to ask God to forgive us as we forgive others.  We forgive not because we feel like it but because Jesus says we must. 

Forgiveness does not require us to accept or excuse an offense or to remain in a hurtful relationship.  It means we cancel their debt.  It is a matter of will and obedience, not emotion (Ephesians 4:32).

Unforgiveness is an acid that destroys its own container...We forgive [them] not for their sake, but for ours.

Someone needs to know this. Is it you?  Or is it just me?

This is from "ignite3 Your Prayer Life!" by Jim & Kaye Johns. 

Prayers for India trip!

“And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied

greatly in Jerusalem , and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.”

Acts 6:7

 

Pray that God would multiply greatly the number of disciples in the Banjara people group.

“But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish….”

[Isaiah 9:1a]

 

Long ago, another people dwelt in deep darkness.  Yet God, the LORD of hosts

voiced deliverance from oppression, slavery, and the darkness for them and the generations who followed.

 

In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations.  ² The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined. [Isaiah 9:1b-2]

 

Today we pray for “the land beyond”; the land and people we know as Banjaraland and the Banjara gypsies of Andhra Pradesh. 

 

We pray and ask You LORD God to send the Helper to announce Your calling and conviction to these people of the land:  conviction regards their sinfulness;  conviction of their unrighteousness before You; and, conviction of the truth that judgment and wrath has been laid upon all earth dwellers and the rulers and authorities they have worshipped and idolized.   Your Word declares  “And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: ⁹concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; ¹⁰ concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; ¹¹ concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.” [John 16:8-11]

 

Moreover, we ask Your Spirit prepare us as we come to India with the message of hope; with the message regards the name above all others!

 

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
   and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

⁷Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end,
on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it
with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore.
The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

[Isaiah 9:6-7]

 

-          In Jesus’ name, AMEN

 

 

Prayer Request *Update*

9/3/09
This if from McShane's myspace page that I have just seen. 

Sep 02


Michael ... Just got some bad news::::: i have to get surgery tommorow.... there are 2 spots on the upper head of my femur and they are going to to do a biopsy on the site.
Mood: scared

--
The surgery may have already happened - I don't know.


Please pray for him and the surgeons. Oh Lord I would pray for a complete healing now, on this earth, in this time and for YOU to receive all the glory and that lives would be turned around and brought to YOU. I'm so humbled by your prayers, you just can't even know. On behalf of all of us, thank you. ~ Love, Cathy


8/20/09
I didn't realize it had been so long since I had updated anything about McShane. I guess it's because I don't really know a whole lot. He's having a rough time with the chemo and it's having some adverse affects on him. The last I heard his heart wasn't getting enough oxygen (because of the chemo drugs). His mom has been staying with him and Mike has been looking for work. (He came and helped us out with our kitchen a couple of weeks ago!) McShane had a Make-A-Wish day on 8/15/09. I believe he was picked up by a limo and taken to Best Buy where he was able to purchase a few things he really wanted (computer and games, I think). I think the reason we don't know more is because James & Mike talk about everything else but this. If you've ever been hit with cancer or a really sick person , I think you understand this statement. (I hope so because it's really hard to explain.) I know he still needs all sorts of prayers and we appreciate all the support and love.
~me

Scroll to bottom for latest news:

2/2/09
My husband's 13 yo nephew, McShane, has an abnormal growth behind his knee that appears to be some type of tumor. The doctors aren't sure if it's growing out of the bone or if it's wrapped around the bone. McShane & Mike (the dad) went to the doctor Thursday thinking it was something minor and were stunned to be referred to specialists. They are on their way today to New Orleans (they recently moved to Baton Rouge) for a biopsy. Mike was told he could expect to be there at least 2 - 3 days.
_______
2/5/09
Just wanted to provide y'all with a quick update on McShane.

Here's what he's facing:
Although McShane hasn't had a biopsy and cancer has not been confirmed, the initial thought is that he has osteosarcoma or ewings. Or, it's quite possible that it's a benign tumor that will need to be removed.

Mike & McShane checked into St. Jude's Hospital in Memphis yesterday. The hospital immediately started lab work. M & M will have a full day of lab and diagnostic tests.

McShane had a slight fever and a sore in his nose (I think that's right), which they aren't sure was the beginning of chicken pox, too much nose blowing or a fever blister. McShane was being quarantined last night and the hospital said they should know this morning why he was running a fever.

Mike says that McShane is just taking everything so far in stride. Mike, as you can imagine, is a wreck!

That's all I know for now. I'm praying for God to reveal Himself in a BIG WAY to Mike, McShane & James. We know how much God loves to show up and show off! James & I are planning on going to Memphis next weekend for a quick visit.

Thank you for your prayers. I know Mike, McShane & James appreciate them too.

From the American Cancer Society website:
Osteosarcoma (also called osteogenic sarcoma) is the most common type of cancer that develops in bone. Like osteoblasts of normal bone, the cells that form this cancer produce bone matrix. However, the malignant bone tissue of an osteosarcoma is not as strong as that of normal bones.
Ewing tumor is the second most common malignant bone tumor in children.
______
2/9/09
Thank you for bearing with me through all of these prayer requests and updates. Honestly words just escape me of how appreciative I am, and I'm unable to express my gratitude with you. (This is sorta discombobulated because I'm trying to write it and work!)

McShane is scheduled to have a biopsy today. At some point (hopefully today), we will find out what all of his scans have shown, whether the tumor has metastasized and what the course of treatment will be. Best case scenario, this isn't osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and only McShane's kneecap will have to be reconstructed once the tumor is removed. I'm not even going to think about worse case :-). They were told Friday to plan on being at the hospital 6 to 9 months. Also, Mike will need to be with McShane 24/7. (Anyone have family in the Memphis area?)

I'm looking forward to seeing McShane this coming weekend! I'll continue to keep you posted on him. (If you don't want updates, please do not hesitate to let me know. I don't want to overburden anyone with constant emails.)

Here are two verses I'm claiming for them:
Mark 11:23-24 (HCSB)
23 I assure you: If anyone says to this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24 Therefore, I tell you, all the things you pray and ask for—believe that you have received them, and you will have them.

2/12/09
McShane is having his biopsy today at 10:00. He will be having tissue samples from his knee and his lungs. (They found three spots on his lungs.) So, today is the day we find out whether he has cancer or just a nasty tumor. McShane’s spirits are good.

Thank you in advance for your prayers!

Everything always changes around from when it's supposed to happen to it actually happening. I'll keep this post updated as I know something.

2/16/09
We had a good time hanging out with McShane & Mike this past weekend. St. Jude's is HUGE! McShane finally got discharged from inpatient at 7 Saturday night, so we all headed over to their temporary home at the Ronald McDonald House (which is HUGE too!). While we were waiting, the boys (James, Mike, McShane & Daniel) played Wii Golf & Bowling. Each of the rooms had a Wii! I knew better than to even try to play, plus I didn't think I could handle all the abuse they were dishing out to each other!

I had the tumor placement wrong in my initial email. McShane has a knot on the front of his right knee, which is why he went to the doctor just a short 2 weeks ago! His knee was pretty swollen from the biopsy - I was assured it didn't look quite so swollen before the biopsy.
Mike went down to Baton Rouge today to get some work done and move their stuff out of the house they are renting. McShane's grandfather is with McShane. I bet he didn't quite know what all he'd have to do! Shew - they were going to be all over the hospital today.

One of the sweetest things McShane said to me was Saturday night before we left. I was giving him a hug and he said, "Please pray for me". Oh it still tears me up. I assured him there were many folks praying for him and I told him I'd give him the website address to see what people have written. (For those of you who couldn't comment, I added the comments to the post!) *waves to McShane* Hey sweetheart!

I imagine it'll be a few days before there's anything new to report. I'll update when I know. Until then, thank you again for your prayers and sweet comments. It's so appreciated.

2/23/09

I don't have too much to update you on. Mike is still in Baton Rouge trying to get a job finished up, and we've been trying to leave him alone so he can concentrate on the job. In comparison, we're probably just a minor annoyance, but you get the drift.

James called Mike Sunday night and found out that McShane started his chemo on Friday, 2/20/09. He really wants his dad back with him. He's in the hospital while he's receiving treatment. Mike is trying really hard to get back to Memphis.

Some people have asked about sending them cards or things. If you'll email me at cathy.m.davis@gmail.com I will gladly let you know the address and contact information.

3/1/09
I don't have a lot to update you on, which is why I've put off adding an update. Here's what I know - McShane has had 2 chemo treatments on 2/20 and 2/21. When I talked to Mike on Friday, 2/27, he said that McShane wasn't feeling well and the doctors would wait to see how he reacted to the chemo before they scheduled more chemo. They run tests after the chemo, but Mike didn't know what the results of the tests were.They were moving from the Ronald McDonald House to the Target House. I don't know if that move has happened with all the snow Memphis had (8 inches last I saw!).

Mike got back from Baton Rouge on Tuesday/Wednesday and is headed back down there tomorrow for a week. There is a sweet woman named Lynn who has stayed with McShane in the past (when Mike had to work out of town) who is in town for the week.

So, this is what I know for now. Thank you for your continued prayers for McShane, Mike and our family. I wish I could be huddled in a circle with each of you, holding hands and praying out loud. Now that, my sweet friends, is some fellowship!

3/2/09
This morning I receive a text from James which says...I forgot to tell you that McShane has a staph infection in his leg and is back in the hospital. FORGOT TO TELL ME??

So, I'm telling you - McShane is in the hospital with a staph infection. I don't think I need to tell you how serious this is for someone with a compromised immune system. So, I'm just going to ask for extra prayers!

3/4/09
We found out that yesterday morning, McShane had emergency surgery to remove the infection. The infection wasn't deep (from what I understand).

Mike is down in Baton Rouge wrapping things up and moving out of their house.

I'm praying for McShane's healing so he will be a beacon of God's light and for Mike & McShane to have courage to face the journey ahead of them. All ALL for God's Glory!

They did get moved in to the Target House, which is set up like apartments! So, they have 2 bedrooms and their own kitchen. The RMH was more like a hotel room with shared open spaces.

3/12/09

Good morning! I wanted to give you a quick update on what I know about McShane and Mike.

McShane's recovered from the staph infection, I'm guessing, because he's being admitted to the hospital today to start another round of chemotherapy. Mike told James they were going to try a different drug this time.

This will be McShane's second round of chemo. Mike said McShane has started losing his hair so they cut his hair short. (Chemo - it's no one's friend and it doesn't care what it does to you.)

3/30/09

All the tests show that the tumor has NOT grown! We are ecstatic about that! My mom (a/k/a GiGi) is spending the week with McShane while Mike closes shop in Baton Rouge. McShane & GiGi have never met, but GiGi figures if he's my family, he might as well be her family. I hope they don't wear each other too much. You might keep 'em both in your prayers.

I don't have really any more information other than this and this is really the first update I've gotten since the last one! Thank you, thank you for the continued prayers. God loves it when we come to Him in pray and doing so on behalf of someone else is so special to Him.

5/4/09

I'm sorry it's been so long since I've updated you on McShane. His treatment has just been steady going with some minor bumps along the way. James & I were able to go to Memphis a couple of weeks ago and it was good to see how well McShane was doing.

He's lost his hair and the place where he had his leg biopsy is nasty wound. He has some type of wound sucking machine hooked up to his leg. The chemo has made it so it's hard for him to heal so he's just keepin' on keepin' on. His spirits are pretty good. Also, he knows exactly what is going on and is determined to not be a statistic of defeat.

Pretty soon, he'll be having surgery on his leg. I do not know all the specifics, but here's what I do know...The doctor will be cutting his leg open from above the knee to about midway down his shin. They will be removing the tumor and his knee parts (but not his knee cap). They will be inserting a steel rod into his femur and one of the other bones (I don't know if it's the fibula/tibia/both) and they will rebuild his knee. He will be in a wheelchair for a number of weeks. He wants to be able to walk by June 22, which is his 14th birthday. He seemed scared and apprehensive about this surgery (and who could blame him)?

He was supposed to have surgery this Thursday, 5/7; however, the chemo has left his mouth full of painful sores and they want him to heal from those.

As soon as I know more, I will let you know. If you want his mailing address, please let me know. I'm sure he'd love to receive cards and things! If you know of people in Memphis who you think would be willing to go and visit with McShane & Mike, please email me for the contact information.

5/16/09
Next week, May 22, 2009, McShane will be having his "limb-salvage" surgery. As you can imagine, this is an extremely invasive surgery. All prayers are appreciated. More details to come as I know more.

Thank you for praying for McShane and Mike. It means more than we'll ever be able to tell you.

5/22/09
McShane is out of surgery. Doc was optimistic. More tomorrow.

6/4/09
Here's my request for McShane. Please keep him in your prayers and lift him UP. I know God can do ALL THINGS and I'm believing Him and thanking Him for those answered prayers. ______________________________

I just got off the phone with James, who just got off the phone with Mike, regarding McShane. (James is doing his "field" thing and talking to him right now is very sparce.) The skin graft that McShane had during his surgery did not take. (I don't know what the skin graft was for.) The plastic surgeon came in a bit ago and said that McShane has got to have emergency surgery because it looks like the muscle in his leg is dying. He wanted to have surgery today but McShane had ingested some milk today.

The plan as I understand it to have surgery tomorrow morning on his leg. McShane has been having trouble healing since the chemo started and this was one of the concerns we had following the surgery. Just that he'd be really slow to heal. I'm not surprised the skin graft didn't take, but I am surprised to hear of the problems it is causing. There is a chance that he will lose his leg. (You might recall that the surgery was called limb salvaging surgery so there has been that fear anyway.)

Please pray for the surgeon's hands to be guided by the Ultimate Healer! I pray for McShane's healing and I really hope he'll be able to keep his leg and will have full use of that leg! I'm believing God and I know He's got McShane in the palm of His hands. Thank you dear ones for your continued prayers. I love you so!


6/8/09
McShane is supposed to go back in for more surgery today. I'm praying praying praying. Thank you for praying with me.


6/10/09
The surgeon has recommended an amputation of McShane’s leg because the muscle that was moved around during his first surgery is dying. In lieu of amputation, McShane could have another type of surgery where they take a muscle from his back and put it in his leg (to replace the dying muscle). Mike has to make a decision today. Last I heard, he's waiting to see a pathology report that should be ready today, and he’s leaning towards amputation. McShane said he would like to keep his leg, but understands if he can’t. Can you even imagine? (I hope you can’t.) Without stating the obvious…I’m not male, nor is this my son or daughter going through all of this. I can’t imagine the stigma of not having a leg and maybe legs means more if you’re a male. As a mother, I would just want what is best for my child and I would follow the surgeon’s advice ~ especially when he said “If this was my son, I would amputate his leg.” My heart hurts for them. I’m tender about all the things they are going through that I have so many prayers that I just can’t seem to put them in words to share with anyone. I’ve asked for a lot of prayer during this situation and I honestly appreciate the fact that you allow me to ask. I thank each of you from the bottom of my heart. So, instead of asking for someone sorta specific, I’m just asking you to pray as you feel lead. May God bless you and smile down on you for interceding on their behalf.

6/15/09

Here's what I think I know. I say it this way because my information is coming from voice mails and "myspace" status messages. This isn't the most reliable way to relay information and it surely isn't detailed. BUT, I wanted to let you know what I know because so many of you have been so sweet and kind and asked about Mike and McShane (and James and me).

This is what I know: "McShane had his right leg amputated on Thursday. On Saturday or Sunday, he was able to get out of bed and get on crutches!"

I know that God has a plan for this family and He will do what is best for all of us. While I keep feeling like I have to carry the load, His word tells me that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. All I have to do is ask. He sure knows I can't do anything without Him and I cannot change the current situation. I'm believing God will answer our prayers and that the answer we receive will be for His glory.

I thank you so much for your prayers and the care you have shown to each of us. On a side note, McShane's 14th birthday is next Monday. His goal (before any of the surgery) was to be able to walk by then. If he's already gotten out and gotten on the crutches, I believe he's well on his way!

6/16/09

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. This picture speaks volumes.

8/20/09

I didn't realize it had been so long since I had updated anything about McShane. I guess it's because I don't really know a whole lot. He's having a rough time with the chemo and it's having some adverse affects on him. The last I heard his heart wasn't getting enough oxygen (because of the chemo drugs). His mom has been staying with him and Mike has been looking for work. (He came and helped us out with our kitchen a couple of weeks ago!) McShane had a Make-A-Wish day on 8/15/09. I believe he was picked up by a limo and taken to Best Buy where he was able to purchase a few things he really wanted (computer and games, I think). I think the reason we don't know more is because James & Mike talk about everything else but this. If you've ever been hit with cancer or a really sick person , I think you understand this statement. (I hope so because it's really hard to explain.) I know he still needs all sorts of prayers and we appreciate all the support and love.

~me

Cathy
Mark 11:23-24 (HCSB)
I assure you: If anyone says to this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore, I tell you, all the things you pray and ask for—believe that you have received them, and you will have them.

McShane Update

I got everything all together and updated the McShane post, along with a picture of his "new leg". I joined myspace just so I could be "friends" with McShane. I don't know much more than I did, except that the surgery did happen and he's being fitted for his prosthetic. I posted a picture on the "update" blog.

For those of you who pray for me and him and our family, it means more than I'll ever be able to say, especially in light of the fact that there was just recently a baby hoax that many of my fellow siestas were unknowingly a part of. The fact that you show faith to believe and care means so much. (See, I just don't have the words.)

Can I pray for you? I'd be honored to intercede on your behalf.

Prayer for McShane needed

I don't have a lot of time to link and stuff, so please forgive me. I'll get it all fixed up later when I get home!

Here's my request for McShane. Please keep him in your prayers and lift him UP. I know God can do ALL THINGS and I'm believing Him and thanking Him for those answered prayers.
______________________________
I just got off the phone with James, who just got off the phone with Mike, regarding McShane. (James is doing his "field" thing and talking to him right now is very sparce.)

The skin graft that McShane had during his surgery did not take. (I don't know what the skin graft was for.) The plastic surgeon came in a bit ago and said that McShane has got to have emergency surgery because it looks like the muscle in his leg is dying. He wanted to have surgery today but McShane had ingested some milk today. The plan as I understand it to have surgery tomorrow morning on his leg.

McShane has been having trouble healing since the chemo started and this was one of the concerns we had following the surgery. Just that he'd be really slow to heal. I'm not surprised the skin graft didn't take, but I am surprised to hear of the problems it is causing. There is a chance that he will lose his leg. (You might recall that the surgery was called limb salvaging surgery so there has been that fear anyway.)

Please pray for the surgeon's hands to be guided by the Ultimate Healer! I pray for McShane's healing and I really hope he'll be able to keep his leg and will have full use of that leg! I'm believing God and I know He's got McShane in the palm of His hands.

Thank you dear ones for your continued prayers. I love you so!

Update on McShane

Where has the time gone? I didn't realize it had been so long since I posted about McShane! I updated the McShane post (button over there >>) but I thought I'd post this new too, so you wouldnt' necessarily have to scroll through the whole story find the newest update. (Of course if you don't know about whom I'm speaking, then click that McShane button and read all about it!)

I'm sorry it's been so long since I've updated you on McShane. His treatment has just been steady going with some minor bumps along the way. James & I were able to go to Memphis a couple of weeks ago and it was good to see how well McShane was doing.

He's lost his hair and the place where he had his leg biopsy is nasty wound. He has some type of wound sucking machine hooked up to his leg. The chemo has made it so it's hard for him to heal so he's just keepin' on keepin' on. His spirits are pretty good. Also, he knows exactly what is going on and is determined to not be a statistic of defeat.

Pretty soon, he'll be having surgery on his leg. I do not know all the specifics, but here's what I do know...The doctor will be cutting his leg open from above the knee to about midway down his shin. They will be removing the tumor and his knee parts (but not his knee cap). They will be inserting a steel rod into his femur and one of the other bones (I don't know if it's the fibula/tibia/both) and they will rebuild his knee. He will be in a wheelchair for a number of weeks. He wants to be able to walk by June 22, which is his 14th birthday. He seemed scared and apprehensive about this surgery (and who could blame him)?

He was supposed to have surgery this Thursday, 5/7; however, the chemo has left his mouth full of painful sores and they want him to heal from those.

As soon as I know more, I will let you know. If you want his mailing address, please let me know. I'm sure he'd love to receive cards and things! If you know of people in Memphis who you think would be willing to go and visit with McShane & Mike, please email me for the contact information.

Thank you for praying for McShane and Mike. It means more than we'll ever be able to tell you.

Walk by the Spirit

Galatians 5:16-26 (ESV)

16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

17 For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

Lord, I pour out my fleshly desires, habits and hangups and I pray that You fill those places up with Your Spirit, so they are replaced with the fruit of the Spirit. Let Your light shine out of me so that others may know You. Take any glory and praise for my works and words, Lord, for they are all Yours. Without You, I am nothing but a fleshy desire waiting to happen. Fill me with You, Lord, so I won't seek approval and affirmation from others because desiring others affirmation keeps me in the flesh and not in the Spirit. Praise You for setting this captive free. I'm so grateful you do not tire of my coming to your throne and asking the same thing over and over and over. You are Faithful and True. I love you Lord and I praise You for You are worthy to be praised. ~Amen

What's this 5:16 thing about?

Go to Like a warm cup of coffee: The List Grows... and find out....

I found it through Holley. She started it by sharing a beautiful story, which I'm going to share too:

The crowd is thick--joyful, busy, full of life. But she is alone, afraid, wondering if she should even be there. For years no one has touched her. The elbows jostling, arms bumping, and shoulders brushing feel welcome and uncomfortable.

Then she sees the one she has been waiting for during twelve long years of suffering. Perhaps she had been in the crowd many times. But today she slips through the people, tentatively at first, and then using her elbows, voice, and hands until she stands within a foot or so of him. Fear grips her, taunting thoughts run through her mind, but she has come too far to turn away now.

One trembling hand reaches out and touches the edge of His cloak. In an instant she feels the pain stop and then a sudden, inexplicable surge of joy. She knows she has found healing, hope, life--everything that has been missing for so long.

He turns and asks, "Who touched me?"

She hadn't expected this. Her plan had been to remain unnoticed. But Jesus asks, and trembling, she finally answers.

He looks at her with eyes of love, eyes that seem to really know, and says, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace" (Luke 8:48).

Like Holley, I never seem to take that one last step. I take baby steps but I never seem to go all the way. Darn me and my lack of self-control! After reading her post and then visiting the 5:16 post, I went ahead and did it. I signed up for the 5:16 club (Gal. 5:16). It's a group of women who are committed to spending time with God each morning. You can read more about how it started here. You can choose whatever time you'd like but I picked 5:00.

Dear Lord, I pray for Your presence to wake me up and welcome me in to time with you. On my own, I will not do it. Amen!

“I earnestly recommend that it be in the early morning, unless there are some extenuating circumstances. Entering the day without a serious meeting with God, over his Word and in prayer, is like entering the battle without tending to your weapons. The human heart does not replenish itself with sleep. The body does, but not the heart. We replenish our hearts not with sleep, but with the Word of God and prayer.”
John Piper

A Bunch of Random Things!

Hello my dear bloggy peeps! Oh how I have missed you. I can't believe how long it's been since I posted a blog.

James was home for a week and we were busy doing stuff (nothing really just not being on the computer). We did run up to Memphis to visit McShane & Mike and go to the Super Chevy Show. We went to Beale Street Friday evening and that was pretty neat. There were street performers and live music and LOTS of food (and even more alcohol with the biggest drinks I've ever seen - one size came with a strap! I kid you not)! The racing part of the Super Chevy Show got rained out, but not before I got a nice sunburned red neck (just my neck, thank you irony) and blisters on my feet. BUT, I tried really hard not to complain because the boys were having fun.

We had a neat prayer & worship gathering at church last weekend, where we kicked off a 90 Day period of seeking God as His Church with this question: What area of Birmingham are you leading us to adopt for 25 years? My oldest daughter was part of the worship team and she knocked my socks off. My youngest daughter sat with me and I enjoyed some sweet fellowship time with her. Does your church have prayer gatherings? I love them!

Here are my thoughts on cuticle care (here's the really random part of the post)...I work with paper and I type, so I have dry fingers and I can't grow my nails. I don't use nail polish because it seems to make my nails peel and break. Over the last several months, I started having a problem with hangnails, extremely dry nail beds and nails that split. It was gross (and painful). I bought a cuticle oil stick and started using it several times a day at work. At home, I have a container of cuticle oil stuff that I use. Oh my goodness, let me tell you my nails have never looked better! There's truth in the statement "The best way to make sure your nails are healthy is to moisturize them daily, and care for your cuticles." I have had to cut my nails back because they started growing too long, I haven't had one single hang nail nor have my nails broken. It's amazing, I tell you. If you have problems with your nails, try this remedy!

Work has been hectic and busy. Oh, I bought myself a Nintendo DS and I've been mastering my Diner Dash skills, which might also explain why I haven't been around...We just finished our study on To Live is Christ, the life & ministry of Paul (WOW). We'll be starting Esther, It's Tough Being a Woman the end of next month. We're going through Measureless Love which God is using to really speak to me about looking to other people for affirmation and adoration. Do you think He gets tired of having to repeat the same message over and over? I'm so glad He loves me!

What's going on with all of you? I have missed you!!

Oh if only I could always remember...

This sweet prayer was in a Crosswalk devotional that a co-worker sends me. The whole devotional was good and stressed remembering how your words influence others, but it was specifically aimed at spouses.

I don't want to forget the prayer, so I'm posting it (how sad is that?) here!

Dear Lord, help me to honor my husband with my words, my deeds and my thoughts. Help me to realize that my words matter. I can choose to build him up or tear him down. Help me to choose to build him up and give me the strength to do so. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Memory Monday & Prayer Requests

Today is Memory Monday, and I shall be back with you on that momentarily (or at my lunch time).

A couple of weeks or so ago, Travis Cottrell had a link to a sweet little boy's page who was in need of prayer. (I've been following along the journey of two little boys who I don't know, nor did I know before the requests for prayer were offered up. I'll share Peter with you later - wow he's doing great and his parents are so full of hope and God is overflowing them right now. It's amazing!) This request is for Gavin. Please go to his blog and read his story. You'll see why he needs prayer and why his parents need prayer. I don't know these sweet people, but my heart breaks for them and this is all I can offer them is prayer.

(Hey, if you look over to your right, you'll see I made a button for McShane and his updates!)

Praying for someone and lifting their needs up to our Heavenly Father is such an honor, and I know all three of you who read this blog feel the same way.


“I assure you: If anyone says to this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore, I tell you, all the things you pray and ask for—believe that you have received them, and you will have them." Mark 11:23-24 (HCSB)

For the Tough Times, by Max Lucado

For The Tough Times, Reaching Toward Heaven for Hope by Max Lucado

When we feel that life is out of control, He is in control. When tragedy strikes, people desperately search for answers. Believers and unbelievers alike find themselves turning to God. Best-selling author and pastor Max Lucado points to the only real answer to tragedy and crisis: Prayer. In For the Tough Times, Lucado helps us understand how to pray despite our doubt and fear.

My review:

This is a gem of a book. It's the kind of book that you can either skim through or devour. When you read the book, you are constantly reminded how much God loves you and how He is in control. Max Lucado gives examples of prayers we can say, even when we our circumstances leave us speechless.

For example: "Lord, the one you love is tired, sad, hungry, lonely, fearful, depressed." The words of the prayers may vary but His response never changes. He hears the prayer. He silences heaven so he won't miss a word. (pp. 67-68, emphasis and paraphrasing mine.)

If you or someone you know is going through a tough time, buy this book. They won't feel overwhelmed by the size (79 pages) and the book can be read as circumstances allow. The pages are filled with treasures and words of wisdom.

(P.S. This is my very first book review for Thomas Nelson: book review blogger. Please let me know your honest thoughts of the review. Thank you!)

“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Prayer Request *update*

**UPDATE 2/7/09* McShane is scheduled for a biopsy on Monday to test for osteosarcoma and it's severity. Praise God for St. Jude's Hospital and the treatment they offer for this type of cancer. Thank you for your prayers. I'm praying for God to do what He loves to do - show up and show off! AMEN!*

*UPDATE 2/2/09* Tomorrow, they will be heading to St. Jude's Hospital in Memphis, TN and going to the Solid Tumor Clinic. McShane still hasn't had a biopsy ~ I imagine that will be done on Thursday. What they think it is is osteosarcoma. I'm bathing them both in prayer and if you're helping me do that too, you'll never know how thankful I am!*

My husband's 13 yo nephew, McShane, has an abnormal growth behind his knee that appears to be some type of tumor. The doctors aren't sure if it's growing out of the bone or if it's wrapped around the bone. McShane & Mike (the dad) went to the doctor Thursday thinking it was something minor and were stunned to be referred to specialists. They are on their way today to New Orleans (they recently moved to Baton Rouge) for a biopsy. Mike was told he could expect to be there at least 2 - 3 days.

Mike is self-employed as a contractor, which is why he moved to Baton Rouge where there appeared to be more employment opportunity. He was supposed to start a large job today, which now he can't. His business has been down and money is very scarce. Also, he has no health insurance.

I pray that you'll join me in praying that regardless of what the tests reveal that Mike, McShane and James will look up to our Father and grab a hold of His hand. Only He will be able to bring us through the rocky road ahead. I pray that I'm used for God's glory and not to His detriment. That I will be able to remain strong and help show them Him!

Thank you!!!!


“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Let's bathe them in prayer...

I'm not a politician, nor do I have staunch political views. On this day, however, I want to be obedient to prayer for our incoming leadership. 1 Timothy 2:2 says: "Pray for rulers and for all who have authority so that we can have quiet and peaceful lives full of worship and respect for God."

Max Lucado has a prayer guide for people on his website. I encourage you to go there, if you aren't sure how to pray for our leaders, and follow the guide. (That's what I've done!) Remember, good things happen when people pray :-).

Also, you are given an opportunity to add your own prayer at the Living Proof Ministries blog.

I know today is a huge day in our Nation's history. I am not sure why I feel so compelled to pray for our leadership but I am and I want to share these feelings with others. Sometimes, I think we forget to pray for the ones who lead and guide us, and I just want to help spread the word.

Today, I pray for our incoming president the following:

Our fight is not against people on earth, President Elect Obama, but against the rulers and authorities and the powers of this world’s darkness, against the spiritual powers of evil in the heavenly word. President Elect Obama, Prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Remember that God will always give what is right to his people who cry to him night and day, and he will not be slow to answer them.

I pray that the God of peace will give you every good thing you need so you do what He wants. Father, Keep them safe from the evil one.

Jesus precious name I pray, Amen.

(Eph. 6:12, Eph. 6:19, Luke 18:7, Hebrews 13:20 ~ NCV)

“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Are You Prepared?

This time of year causes folks to reflect on what they would like to see happen in the new year or to make resolutions. I found out many years ago that I can't seem to keep any New Year resolution I make, no matter how simple it is. When I fail, I feel guilty and all sorts of other emotions that I have no business feeling. So, I decided many years ago that I would not make anymore New Year Resolutions!

However, this year, I found this post about being prepared for the new year. I wanted to share it and then make it my own. Below is my personalized preparedness...but please go to the original post and read it in its entirety. I believe you'll be blessed by it.

For 2009, these are the areas I intend to focus on:

Me. What adjustments do I need to make in my life in the areas of ministry, Bible study, service, prayer and obedience to what God is calling me to do? As a small group leader, I strive to be the example God would have me be for Him. I want to have His word hidden in my heart.

My husband. Besides my prayers for his salvation, I ask God specifically for ways I can and should be praying for my husband throughout the new year. I pray for God to show me how to be more loving towards him today than I was yesterday. I also pray to be the wife God honoring wife I am designed to be.

My children. My constant prayer is for their protection and a deepening faith, but I also want to be sensitive to what God is doing in their lives. Along with my own concerns, I ask God to show what areas I need to cover in prayer for the upcoming year. How can I be a God honoring mom to them?

Extended family. Who in your family needs special prayers for the coming year? This is a good time to make a list (not too long or you’ll be overwhelmed) of those who don’t believe, are struggling in their lives, or are ill.

Friends. How can I be praying and uplifting the special people in my life? Praying for them keeps me closer to them as well.

Missionary. Do you have a cause or missionary you support? Put it down and make a commitment to pray for them. (Include my pastor here too!)

World. Is there an area God is calling you to pray for on a larger scope? I’m committed to praying for President Elect Obama. (side note: 1/20/09 is the day set aside to cover our President in prayer.)

Finally, write it all down. (#8 & #9 haven't been changed from the original writer's words.) Assign a day of the week to each area (Monday for my immediate family, Tuesdays for extended family, etc.) Give each day a page and list who and what you’re praying for. Then leave space to write in updates during the year. This will help you reassess the following year as well.

Also jot down any promises God gives you in these areas so that you can go back and read them when you find yourself discouraged or off track. You’ll be amazed how much strength you can draw from these reminders that God is personally involved in every aspect of our lives.

I want to give Dineen a big shout out for sharing how she will start the new year. It was exactly what I needed to help me jump start my year!

Share with me your goals and/or dreams and/or commitments for the new year!

“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Really?

God is so awesome! I have entered sweepstakes for years now, and I've never won. I never win the door prize or the contests. Usually, I'm sitting next to the person who wins...you get my drift? Lately, I have been amazed with all that I've won! A beautiful necklace, books, CDs, decorative plate and more books! (I need to link up to all the precious people who have given me prizes because I really apprecite everything I've received!)

Allow me to digress briefly (I promise, I'll try to be brief...I know I KNOW). A couple of months ago, I began crying out to God and holding on to His word as my marriage was quickly crumbing. I knew that if I held on to His promises, then no matter what happened would be for His glory. I was believing God - not just in Him but believing Him.

Here are a couple of the promises I held on to and kept repeating over and over:

Psalm 37:4 - Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV) -- For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

So, things between James & I are steadily improving. Yippee! And, I've won all these prizes and I have had precious people just give me sweet presents and items to let me know "I love you". So to all of them I saw - THANK YOU!!! I honestly feel the Lord used these people and giveaways to remind me of the delight only He can give. So I PRAISE HIM! Thank you, Abba!

Imagine my surprise when I got home yesterday and I had a box from TitleTrakk.com that said "your prize is inside"! WHAT???? I won a stack of Christmas books from TitleTrakk.com. I went to their site to copy what I'd won for the blog, and there was my name! (The list of books has been taken down already.)

Let's give God a big round of applause and praise Him! Thank you Lord finding favor in me and giving me the desires of my heart. I will worship while I wait on You.

Have a beautiful Saturday. And remember to praise Him through your circumstances. He is worthy!


“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

The Shack

Have you read this book?

I've heard about it. We had a stack of books at our church "book store" but I didn't see any there. So, when James & I went to Books A Million yesterday, I picked up a copy. I've only read through page 42 and I'm really enjoying it!

I might be expected the book to be earth shattering, given all the attention it's garnered. I probably shouldn't put that much into it, huh?

And, if you have it in you, please say a prayer or two for James & me. We've done a lot of talking, but we have more to go. This I do know - God is good ALL THE TIME!

(I'll be getting the sweepstakes winners stuff out on Monday. So sorry for the delay!!)

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11