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December 2023 Archives
Today is Friday, December 1st, 2023; Karen's Korner #5010
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Today's entry from "365 Days of Prayer for Women" by Stephanie Sample:
MAKE ME WISE
"How blessed is the man (woman) who finds wisdom.
And the man (woman) who gains understanding."
~ Proverbs 3:13 NASB
"Father, you say wisdom matters most. I need help understanding how a clear and level head is more valuable than wealth, health, or meaningful work. I don't want to be like a child who wants to live on birthday cake and candy. Help me seethe value of something so intangible and hard to obtain. I want to be mature in the things of heaven. Make me wise enough to understand, God. Then I'll be able to order my priorities as you would. Make me wise enough to choose love over success, spiritual health over physical wellness, and treasure in heaven over possessions on earth. Make me wise enough to seek wisdom first."
"Are we seeking wisdom from God first?"
****
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Today is Monday, December 4th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5011
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Today's Max Lucado in my email inbox:
THE WAY JESUS CAME
"It all happened in a moment, a most remarkable moment. God became a man. Heaven opened herself and placed her most precious one in a human womb.
"Jesus came, not as a flash of light or as an unapproachable conqueror, but as one whose first cries were heard by a peasant girl and a sleepy carpenter. The hands that first held him were un-manicured, calloused, and dirty. For thirty-three years he would feel everything you and I have ever felt. Weak and weary and afraid of failure. His feelings got hurt.
"To think of Jesus in such a light seems almost irreverent. There’s something about keeping him divine that keeps him distant, predictable. But don’t do it. For heaven’s sake, don’t! Let him be as human as he intended to be. For only if we let him in can he pull us out."
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Today is Tuesday, December 5th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5012
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"I waited patiently for God to help me;
then He listened and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the pit of despair;
out from the bog and the mire;
and set my feet on a hard, firm path
and steadied me as I walked along.
He has given me a new song to sing,
of praises to our God.
Now many will hear of the glorious things
He did for me,
and stand in awe before the Lord,
and put their trust in Him.
Many blessings are given
to those who trust the Lord."
~ Psalm 40: 1-4B LAB
* Bible Commentary: "Waiting for God to help us is not easy, but David (writer) received four benefits from waiting on God: 1) God lifted him out of his despair; 2) God set his feet on firm ground; 3) God steadied his walk, and 4) God gave him a new purpose. Often blessings cannot be received unless we go through the trial of waiting."
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Today is Wednesday, December 6th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5013
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Something published in the current edition of Iowa Electric Cooperative and written by Darcy Dougherty Moulsby of Lake City:
8 Gifts That Don't Cost A Cent
The Gift of a Favor:
Every day , go out of your way to do something kind.
The Gift of Listening:
But you must really listen. No interrupting, no day dreaming, no planning your response. Just listening..
The Gift of Affection:
Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds. Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends.
The Gift of Laughter:
Clip cartoons. Share antics and funny stories. Your gift will say, 'I love to laugh with you.'
The Gift of a Written Note:
It can be a simple 'thanks for the help' note or a full sonnet. A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a life time and may even change a life.
The Gift of Solitude:
There ae times when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others.
The Gift of a Compliment:
A simple and sincere, 'You look great in red.' 'You did a super job' or 'That was a wonderful meal' can make someone's day.
The Gift of a Cheerful Disposition:
The easiest way to feel good is to make others feel good."
* Nice list, God, but I am going to need your help to be more aware, to see things as You see them. One more thing I am going to need Your help doing! You put so many people in my path. Help me to see them as You do! In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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Today is Thursday, December 7th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5014
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On Monday, our high school chorus sang the "Hallelujah Chorus" from Handel's Messiah. It is said to be one of the most sung and most familiar works for the past nearly 300 years.
It is taken from a Bible verse in Isaiah when the prophet predicted the coming of the Messiah. He did come. But 700 years later!
"For unto us a Child is born; unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder. These will be His royal titles: 'Wonderful', 'Counselor'. 'The Mighty God,' "The Everlasting Father,' 'The Prince of Peace.' His ever-expanding, peaceful government will never end. He will rule with perfect fairness and justice from the throne of His father David."
~ Isaiah 9:6 & 7 LAB
Bible Commentary: "In a time of great darkness, God promised to send a Light who would shine on everyone living in the shadow of death. He is both 'Mighty God' (all-powerful) and 'Counselor' (all-loving). This message of hope was fulfilled in the birth of Christ and the establishment of his eternal kingdom. He cam to deliver all people from their slavery to sin."
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Today is Friday, December 8th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5015
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Something written and sent to my email inbox by Anne Graham Lotz today:
KING OFHEARTS
"The kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit."
~ Romans 14:17 NKJV
"The Jews had many preconceived ideas about the Messiah based on their interpretation of Scripture and what they wanted. When Jesus of Nazareth came on the scene with His public ministry, He was neither the Messiah they had been expecting nor the Messiah they wanted. The Jew wanted someone Who would:
raise their standard of living,
grant them privileges without responsibility,
And restore them in the world power they had known under King David and King Solomon.
"They wanted someone who would meet their physical and material and emotional need.
"They expected a glorious, victorious King Who would rid them of the Romans and establish them in national peace and prosperity and prominence. But the first time He came, He came to establish the kingdom of God, not in the world, but in the hearts of men. He was born to die. And so He was rejected as the King of Hearts. Then. But what about now? Would you crown Him King of your heart today?"
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Today is Monday, December 11th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5016
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There is a theme for Psalm 91: "God's protection in the midst of danger. God doesn't promise a world free from danger, but He does promise His help whenever we face danger."
We would have to agree that our world is a dangerous place. We don't like watching some of the things we are seeing in our world today.
"He (God) will shield you with His wings!
They will shelter you.
His faithful promises are your armor.
Now you don't need to be afraid of the dark
any more,
nor fear the dangers of the day,
nor dread the plagues of the darkness,
nor disaster in the morning.:
~ Psalm 91:4 - 6 LAB
*
Bible Commentary: "God is a refuge, a shelter when we are afraid. The writer's faith in God as Protector would carry him through all the dangers and fears of life. This should be a picture of our trust ---trading all our fears for faith in Him, no matter what kind of fear it may be."
***
(Writer of this Psalm is anonymous.
There are 16 verses.
The entire chapter of 91 is a good one!)
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Today is Tuesday, December 12th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5017
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A dose of God's Love at Christmas time. From "100 Things God Loves About You" by Tama Fortner; #79:
GOD LOVES YOUR NEED
"And my God will meet all your
needs according to the riches
of His glory in Christ Jesus."
~ Philippians 4:19
" Food, clothing, shelter. All the basic needs of life, right? Oh, and maybe chocolate. God knows all that you need and He promises to provide all that you need. But you have one need that is greater than any other----the need for Someone to do for you what you can never do for yourself. You need Someone to wash away every mistake, every bad decision, every willful wrong choice. You need Someone to save you---so God sent a Savior.
"The day you realize that He is your greatest need is the day you go running to Him---which is why God loves your need."
*****
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Today is Wednesday, December 13th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5018
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"Hallelujah!
Thank you,
Lord!
How good you are!
Your love for us continues on
forever.
Who can ever list the glorious miracles of God!
Who can ever praise Him
half enough!
~ Psalm 106: 1 & 2 LAB
*
Bible Commentary: If we ever stopped to list all the miracles in the Bible, we would be astounded. They cover every subject of life. The more we think about what God has done, the more we can appreciate the miracles he has done in our lives---birth, personality development, loving friends and family, specific guidance, healing, salvation, the list goes on and on. If you think you have never had a miracle, look closer---you will see God's power and loving intervention on your behalf. God still performs great miracles!!!
***
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Today is Thursday, December 14th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5019
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Something shared by one of our gals at church prayer time. It's a favorite of hers:
GENTLE GUEST
His coming was quiet---
no clash of cymbals,
no blast of trumpets---
just the midnight song of angels
and the awe-filled sighs of shepherds
on a hillside hushed by
holiness.
His coming is still quiet---
His call is tender.
HIs pleading soft---
just s whisper of love in the silence
and a gentle touch of promise
to the humble heart that bids Him welcome.
~ taken from Faces In the Crowd
By B. J. Hoff
***
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Today is Friday, December 15th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5020
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A 'Max Lucado" from several days ago:
DOWN ON YOUR KNEES
"A small cathedral outside Bethlehem marks the supposed birthplace of Jesus. Behind a high altar in the church is a cave, a little cavern lit by silver lamps. You can enter the main edifice and admire the ancient church. You can also enter the quiet cave, where a star embedded in the floor recognizes the birth of the King. There is one stipulation, however – you have to stoop. The door is so low you can’t enter standing up.
"The same is true of the Christ. You know, you can see the world standing tall, but to witness the Savior you have to get on your knees. So at the birth of Jesus, while the theologians were sleeping and the elite were dreaming and the successful were snoring, the meek were kneeling. They were kneeling before the One only the meek will see. They were kneeling in front of Jesus."
***
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Today is Monday, December 18th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5021
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Sometimes we hear or see of a mom or dad packing a sticky note of encouragement into a child's lunch box, school folder or coat pocket.
Notes might say:
Have a great day!
Good luck on your math test.
We love you!
I have never had that done to me, as many of you probably nave not.
But wait, we have the Bible and God tells us many encouraging nuggets of His Love and Care: Daily! Here are just a couple:
"I will never, never leave
you nor forsake you!"
~ Hebrews 13:5
*
"Why be discouraged and sad?
Hope in God!"
~Psalm 42:5
*
"I have loved you
with and everlasting love."
~ Jeremiah 31:3
Tuck these in your pocket and take them with you for the day!! Blessings......
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Today is Tuesday, December 19th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5022
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"But I will
always
trust in You
and in Your mercy
and shall rejoice
in Your
salvation.
I will sing
to the Lord
because He had
blessed
me so richly.
` Psalm 13:5 & 6 LAB
* Bible Commentary: "David (writer) frequently claimed that God was slow to act on his behalf. We often feel this same impatience. It seems that evil and suffering go unchecked, and we wonder when God is going to stop them. David affirmed that he would continue to trust God no matter how long he had to wait for God's justice to be realized. When we feel impatient, remember David's steadfast faith in God's unfailing mercy."
**
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Today is Wednesday, December 20th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5023
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TBN Christian television is celebrating its 50th year in 2023. From small beginnings in 1973, Paul & Jan Crouch began a new era in Christian television programming.
One paragraph taken from a table-top book and written by Paul Crouch:
"God's purpose is unique for each and every person, but it is all tied to one common end----to see His kingdom come and His will done 'on earth as it is in heaven.' And don't worry, God is not looking for the smartest, the wealthiest, or the most talented people to fulfill His eternal purpose. He is looking for those who are available, who will say 'Yes!' to His call. Your flaws and failures don't matter, nor what others say or think. The only opinions that matter are yours and God's---and to His heart and mind, you are a victor."
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Today is Thursday, December 21st, 2023; Karen's Korner #5024
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A poem shared recently at a Christmas gathering of school mates:
Don't Forget Jesus
"Christmas is a special time
To reflect on Jesus Christ,
The wonder of His lowly birth
Brings meaning to our lives.
There really is no other reason
We celebrate this day,
The birth of God's precious son
And the life, He willingly gave.
But so much seems to distract us
In the busyness of our lives,
We lose our focus in all the happenings,
Not knowing, we leave out Christ.
We lose sight of the true meaning
As we endlessly rush about,
Trying to find that perfect gift,
Seems to cloud our Saviour out.
We need to stop and reflect awhile,
Remembering our precious Lord,
His birth, His life and sacrifice
And all that He stands for.
For though the world may celebrate,
It seems, though, for other reasons,
Let's keep in mind that Jesus Christ
Is the true meaning of the season.."
~ M.S. Lowndes
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Today is Friday, December 22nd, 2023; Karen's Korner #5025
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"That night some shepherds were in the fields outside the village, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly an angel appeared among them, and the landscape shone bright with the glory of the Lord. They were badly frightened, but the angel reassured them,
'"Don't be afraid!' he said. 'I bring you the most joyful news ever announced and it is for everyone! The Savior---yes, the Messiah, the Lord---has been born tonight in Bethlehem!'"
~ Luke 2: 8 - 11 LAB
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Bible Commentary: "The greatest event in history had just happened. The Messiah was born! For ages the Jews had waited for this, and when it finally happened, the announcement came to humble shepherds. The good news about Jesus is that He comes to all. ,including the plain and the ordinary. He comes to anyone with a heart humble enough to accept Him. Whoever we are, whatever we do, we can have Jesus in our lives. We don't need extraordinary qualifications---He accepts us as we are."
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Today is Monday, December 25th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5026
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Merry Christmas!!
Last year, a movie came out that told the story of Henry W. Longfellow and how he happened to pen the poem "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day".
Longfellow was a well-known writer of poetry. But in the early 1860s, he first lost his wife when her full-skirted dress caught fire and she was burned to death. His son went off to fight in the Civil War and was wounded.
Longfellow was so despondent, he could no longer write until he heard the bells ringing on Christmas night. Thus the words to the song, later set to music by J. Baptiste Calkin:
I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day
I heard the bells on Christmas day Their old familiar carols play; In music sweet the tones repeat, “There’s peace on earth, good will to men.” I thought how, as the day had come, The belfries of all Christendom Had rolled along th’ unbroken song Of peace on earth, good will to men. And in despair I bowed my head: “There is no peace on earth,” I said, “For hate is strong, and mocks the song Of peace on earth, good will to men.” Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: “God is not dead, nor does He sleep, For Christ is here; His Spirit near Brings peace on earth, good will to men.” When men repent and turn from sin The Prince of Peace then enters in, And grace imparts within their hearts His peace on earth, good will to men. O souls amid earth’s busy strife, The Word of God is light and life; Oh, hear His voice, make Him your choice, Hail peace on earth, good will to men. Then happy, singing on your way, Your world will change from night to day; Your heart will feel the message real, Of peace on earth, good will to men.
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Today is Tuesday, December 26th, 2023; Karen's Korner #5027
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(I will be away from my computer for a few days. Next Karen's Korner - Wednesday, January 3, 2024!)
"The Lord is my fort where I can enter and be safe; no one can follow me in and slay me. He is a rugged mountain where I hide, he is my Savior, a rock where none can reach me, and a tower of safety. He is my shield. He is like the strong horn of a mighty fighting bull. All I need to do is cry to him---oh, praise the Lord---and I am saved from all my enemies!"
~ Psalm 18:2 & 3 LAB
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Bible Commentary: "God's protection of his people is limitless and can take many forms. David characterized God's care with six military symbols. God is like 1) a fort or place of safety where the enemy can't follow; 2) a rugged mountain full of hiding places; 3) a rock that can't be penetrated by any who would harm us 4) a tower high above our enemies; 5) a shield that comes between us and harm; and 6) a horn to scare the enemy away or to warn us if he comes too close. If we need protection, we can look to God/"
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