And finally, as the day of our 8th anniversary arrives, here is part three of our three-part blog series containing the Facebook messages Carol and I wrote to each other over the first couple of months after we first connected. The messages begin when, I was pracitcally dragged unwillingly by my cousin, Sherry, into agreeing to at least friend Carol on Facebook even though I hadn’t met her or seen her. Sherry was friends, and had a working relationship with Carol and thought that we might be a good match. So she began trying to get us together every chance she got. At the same time, unbeknownst to me, Sherry had told Carol about me and was trying to get her to agree for us to meet. Neither Carol or I were looking for relationships at the time. Carol’s husband had passed away just a few years before and her subsequent attempts to form relationships hadn’t quite worked out. I had just gotten out of a nighmare of marriage, practically losing every material thing I had and in the process acquiring serious trust issues and loss of self esteem. When we finallly first connected we both agreed that we would not meet in person right away and also not talk on the phone or text each other. Our conversations would all happen on Facebook. As we began to talk and get to know each other something special began to happen that could only be a God thing. In the over 115,000 words we shared on Facebook, we became friends, confidants and fell in love – all before we ever met in person.
In this final chapter of the blog series, our relationship has deepened and we have become more open. We begin to wonder if it could be love and then discover that it is. We exchange phone numbers and our talks become more personal. In the last few of these special messages, we have met in person and started dating.
The most wonderful thing about it all is that we tried our best to consider God’s will and put Him first. In doing so, He blessed us beyond words. We still do, and He does too.
Hope you enjoy reading the final chapter. Carol’s messages are in bold blue and mine are black text. In case you haven’t read the first two chapters yet, I have post links at the bottom of this post.
October 14, 2013
Hey Hippie, Sounds like you have a full day ahead. I have been super busy too. And I went and had lunch with my pastor friend. We had a great discussion about what it means to disciple someone. I just thank God for the chance to discuss these important issues with someone who really is a true man of God.
I am just so proud of you and happy for you in all things to do with your business (ministry). I support you in what you do, and I’m praying that God blesses you in every way as you use it as a ministry.
I guess I better get to work. I have a great bible verse from the message bible I’ll paste below. I thought about you and I both as I read it. Talk later. God be with you. Old Hippie.
Romans 12:2 MSG
So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
Hey…just checking in before bed. I hope everything about your day has been awesome.
Earlier tonight I watched a documentary about a religious cult from the 1960s and 70s. It reminded me of where my head was at back then and kind of scared me. I am so thankful that God never let me fall into something like that.
I did a little singing and then some praying. I want to get my prayer life in order and also try to be a sincere and concerned listener for Him as He is for me.
I’m finishing up my reading in James and will paste something from it at the end of this. It won’t be too long until I’ll finish with the Message bible version. The next one i plan to read is a New Testament in plain English that was published in the 1890s. I found a copy of it among my grandfather’s things. He probably had it as a young man.
Anyway, just wanted to let you know that I have you in my prayers and thoughts.
Sweet dreams…your hippie
(13) Do you want to be counted wise, to build a reputation for wisdom? Heres what you do: Live well, live wisely, live humbly. Its the way you live, not the way you talk, that counts. (14) Meanspirited ambition isnt wisdom. Boasting that you are wise isnt wisdom. Twisting the truth to make yourselves sound wise isnt wisdom. (15) Its the furthest thing from wisdom its animal cunning, devilish conniving. (16) Whenever youre trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others throats.
17) Real wisdom, Gods wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not twofaced. (18) You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.
James 3:13-18 (MSG)
Hey I see u r still up reading your last message then will respond:)
Yay!!!
Love the readings! So glad I caught you! Have u talked with Sherry?
I talked a little with her last night. None today. I texted and asked if she was okay, she said she was
She had told me to tell you she would text you as soon as she charged her phone but I figured she probably had already
Yeah…she told me her phone went dead. I told her that she definitely gets her money’s worth out of that phone. Lol
Sounds like you had a good day! I’m glad, mine went pretty well. She is one of the most busy people I have ever met! But always has time for everyone
I would have been home an hour earlier but my new recruit wanted to talk. Bless her!!
That’s good isn’t it, that your new recruit wanted to talk?
Yes! She just wants to know everything all at once which is great that she is so excited but I think she ask so much at one time she gets confused or forgets half of it lol
I bet you are a good teacher. It won’t take her long to know and understand how things work
No, Sherry is a good teacher I just try and mimic what she has taught me which in Mary Kay I guess that’s what its all about lol…. thank you for talking to me for a few:) I know you are tired and have an early day toomorrow I will let you get some sleep and I might write again after I wind down. Have a blessed night my sweet old hippie
I am going to take a giant leap here and believing this is right in God’s eyes….my # is 256-xxx-xxxx you can text me …yes I did it!!
No pressure …when you are comfortable:)
I’m glad. We can still just go slow. I thought about it a lot. It doesn’t feel wrong to me to do what we’ve been doing so far. I know that we both agree that we only want what is right in God’s eyes. I think it will be nice to do that together without any pressure for something to happen or not happen. I am always your brother in Christ first and your friend. Anyway, I hope I said that right. Thank you for trusting me.
I told Sherry tonight that I actually typed at the end of my message to you today that it would be ok for you to stop in the center tonight maybe… and she smiled really big and then I told her I erased it. And thought God I don’t want it to be me I want it to be God’s time. And she told me he was just waiting on me… so a text is not as big of a step as meeting.
I’m guess I better go to bed. I might text tomorrow just to say hi. Hey was reading in Daniel where Gabriel appeared with the meaning of a dream. I loved what God said to Daniel. It kind of spoke to me in my quest to pray more attentively. God answered Daniel’s prayer as soon as he started praying it.
22), I have come to make things plain to you. (23) You had no sooner started your prayer when the answer was given. And now Im here to deliver the answer to you. You are much loved! So listen carefully to the answer, the plain meaning of what is revealed:
Daniel 9:22-23 (MSG)
I’m glad that we are doing things the way we are. I agree that texting is a good next step. I don’t know about you, but the idea of us meeting scares me a little. Not because I feel it’s wrong. I don’t thing it will be wrong when God tells us it’s time. But I promise I will be nervous and worried about you not liking me when we meet. I know that sounds silly. It’s just that I do care about you and what you think matters.
You have no worries about that my friend when we do meet I believe God will already have our hearts in the right place about seeing and actually talking with each other:) I love that verse!! We are the ones who makes things so hard to understand when God really speaks it is very plain!! I pray you have a peaceful rest my Friend, you are in my thoughts and prayers, your young Hippie:)
I really count you as a friend for life and God has already blessed us in an awesome way through our sharing and whatever else he has planned for us together is going to be great and just perfect. Goodnight sweet friend. Your old hippie. 🙂
🙂 God Bless
🙂
October 19, 2013
Here’s are songs I’m listening to:
Jesus, I Love Calling Your Name
Jesus
oh Jesus
oh how I love
calling your name
Jesus
oh sweet Jesus
everyday your name is the same
when my troubles surround me
i don’t have to despair
Lord you told me
that you’ll be right there
it seems like all my problems
had just begun
i didn’t have to worry no more
they were already won.
Oh Jesus
oh Jesus
oh how I love
calling your name
Jesus
oh sweet Jesus
oh every day
your name is the same
I remember the time
when I felt so all alone
when I needed you Jesus
all I had to do was call
sometimes in the morning
sometimes late at night
but when I got off my knees Jesus
everything was alright
oh Jesus
my Rose of Sharon
my Lily of the Valley
calling your name
Jesus, Jesus my Mountain Mover
everyday
your name is the same
Jesus nobody but Jesus
oh how I love I love I love
to call on your holy name
Jesus nobody but Jesus
everyday hallelujah
your name is the same
my mother’s Jesus
my father’s Jesus
I love calling your name
come on Jesus
come on Jesus
come on Jesus
nobody but Jesus
Strong Man
There’s a strong man in this house,
With my spiritual eyes i can see.
Here’s what this strong man
Is doing to my whole family:
He’s got a grip on the feeble
And the spiritually blind;
Strong man you better leave here,
Because you’re wasting your time.
Stong man you gotta leave here,
Because you’re wasting your time.
There’s a strong man in this house,
With my spiritual ears i can hear.
Everytime this strong man shows up,
It seems like love dissappears.
He’s got a grip on your grandson,
He’s holding on to somebody’s daughter too;
But strong man you gotta get out of here,
Remember grace all of the children comes through you;
Strong man you gotta leave here,
Because you’re wasting your time
Go, go,
By the power of the holy ghost
October 20, 2013
Love this! R we actually texting and messaging at the same time?? I think we got it bad lol
Lol we sure do!
God be with you today my friend with all your coming and goings, may the Son shine upon you, strengthen you and encourage you with all you do! Father I pray special blessing upon Larry and his work for You. I pray You favor him with his heart’s desires while he stands in Your Will. Most of all Lord protect him and keep him safe from all evil. For, we know no evil shall fall upon the one who trust in You unless Your hand allows it and even then we know Our Heavenly Father is in control. Thank You Jesus for going to the cross for our sins and shedding Your blood so we might be free to love You as You already love us!! In Jesus Holy Name we pray, Amen
October 23, 2013
Thank you Lord for allowing me to be friends with such an amazing man! You have allowed me to feel happiness again actually more than I have known in such a very long time. Even if this is just meant to be a Godly friendship, I thank you for the blessings I have already received. Help me Father to honor you with this gift and give you all the Praise and Glory for being able to connect hearts with someone who truely worships You thru his actions. In Jesus Holy Name, Amen.
🙂 Thank you. It was good to see your prayer right after waking up.
I want to pray for both of us. I was looking at some prayers for friends and couples and put together a prayer for us.
love you young hippie. your old hippie.
Dear God and Father,
Thank you for this life and for the blessing of our friendship. We give you praise for the joy you’ve poured into our hearts through our time with each other. May we always treasure the experience of knowing and loving each other whether we are just friends or there is more. Help us to be true to the bond we’ve made with each other, and to you, Lord.
We will need your strength daily Lord, as we pursue our goal of following and serving you within our relationship and outside of it. Develop within us the character of your Son, Jesus, that we might regard each other with the love he demonstrated—with patience, respect, understanding, honesty, forgiveness and kindness.
Let us always be a support to one another—a friend to listen and encourage, a refuge from the storm, and most importantly, a warrior in prayer.
Holy Spirit, guide us through the difficult moments of life and help us know and make the right choices. May what we do together bring glory to you, our Savior, and testify of your love.
In Jesus’ Name. Amen
Thank so much! Am claiming all of the words in your beautiful prayer!! I am counting the days til I can meet you and watch God move on both our lives. Don’t be upset if I seem shy at first but will warm up quickly, I promise:) I am beginning to believe Spring Park may not be the perfect place for our 1st meeting(weather wise) but I will bring my boggin, gloves and scarf lol am praying for you today, that God loves on you from the top of your head to the tip of your toes!! Be blessed my Old Hippie with all that you do:) …Amazing Grace How Sweet The Sound.
Lord I am so blessed with all the gifts you have bestowed upon me! You take a shipwreck of a life and bring it safely to a warm harbor and I thank you! Teach me Oh Lord, to walk in your ways. To honor you with each breath that I am given. Help me to be ready to give testimony about the unending love that only you can offer!
Praise you Father for this friendship that you have birthed in mine and Larry’s hearts. The plans you have already for our lives are beyond anything that either of us could imagine and we trust You for every detail.
Give us discernment on your desire for our lives and help us to respect and honor each other always. To have patience, joy and endurance thru all storms that may come our way. I give all Praise, Honor and Glory to you Father God. In Jesus Holy Name, Amen
Almighty God, As You are first in our hearts, minds and spirits, show us how we can fulfill the purpose of our friendship so that you will be honored and glorified. We thank you, Father, for the bond you have given us. May it always inspire us to be kind in our words, considerate of feelings, and concerned for each other’s needs and wishes. Guide us through every stage of our relationship, so that, as we move ever closer to You, we grow closer to each other in Love, in Joy, and in Faith. Thank You God, for hearing our prayer. In Jesus Name, Amen!
October 24, 2013
Father God, thank you for a friend that comes boldly to your throne and talks with you! Thank you for the trust I already have in this man and I praise You Lord for the relationship you have predestined for us. He is wonderfully and awesomely made in your image and I am humbled to know him. As we strengthen one another in our walk with You Lord, I ask that You will always be the Head and not the tail. That our foundation in The Word be stronger because of the nourishment that we give to each other. And never let us forget that our relationship is not only mutual love for one another but also builds your Kingdom in Heaven by the testimony we show to others! Father increase our territory, bless us so we may bless others, keep evil from our door and help us not to hurt others so we may not be hurt. In all these things I pray, in Jesus Name Amen.
October 25, 2013
Dear Heavenly Father, We praise You and acknowledge you for who You are, the only real and true God; the God of Israel. We know that You love us, and we see the testimony of Your love all around us, in everything. We thank You for all Your blessings, but most of all we thank You for our salvation through Your Son Jesus. And thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit who not only teaches, comforts and empowers us but through whom Jesus abides in us and we in Him. Holy Spirit, your every action in our lives points to Jesus, and His presence and love gush through our being like a crystal waterfall, flowing out of us into our own actions in this life. And so today when young hippie and I meet, may that again be so, that Your presence, love and purpose would be first in our lives, flowing out into our actions as we take the next step in knowing each other better. I pray that your richest blessings will fall on young hippie in every aspect of her life and that You will be glorified in her life in a mighty way. Let her always hear your voice and see the path You have for her to walk on. God, I pray for me, that in spite of my shortcomings, you will use me to bless young hippie and others, always pointing to you. Help me today to be real and honest and who You want me to be. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Thank you Father God for listening and loving on me even when I am so unloveable. Lord, you know my heart, my mind and my spirit and you have complete control. You who have created the heavens and the earth, that knows how many stars are in the sky and calls them by name! I trust you Father with this day and I pray you lead me and Old Hippie in this journey, even if its only a friendship of sharing your love. Actually, that would be the perfect relationship!! Keep us with a hedge of protection over us so we may know your will and follow. Thank you Lord for listening once again. And I thank you for your gift of friendship with my Hippie! In Jesus Name Amen
October 26, 2013
Father God, I pray for my dear friend, my heart and my love. I ask you to give him happieness peace and love with every part his life. Give him direction to follow You even when things seem cloudy and unsure. Remind him that You will always carry him and keep him safe even in the darkest nights. Father I ask that you always give Larry a companion in life to share the joy of your Holy Spirit with that will honor you with their lives and Lord if it happens that you bless us with this relationship, help us to always give you the praise and glory for all of it. In Jesus Name Amen.
Was reading Old Testament tonight. Want to send a couple of passages:
(11) God, the Master, says: From now on, I myself am the shepherd. Im going looking for them. (12) As shepherds go after their flocks when they get scattered, Im going after my sheep. Ill rescue them from all the places theyve been scattered to in the storms. (13) Ill bring them back from foreign peoples, gather them from foreign countries, and bring them back to their home country. Ill feed them on the mountains of Israel, along the streams, among their own people. (14) Ill lead them into lush pasture so they can roam the mountain pastures of Israel, graze at leisure, feed in the rich pastures on the mountains of Israel. (15) And I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep. I myself will make sure they get plenty of rest. (16) Ill go after the lost, Ill collect the strays, Ill doctor the injured, Ill build up the weak ones and oversee the strong ones so theyre not exploited.
Ezekiel 34:15-16
(24) For heres what Im going to do: Im going to take you out of these countries, gather you from all over, and bring you back to your own land. (25) Ill pour pure water over you and scrub you clean. (26) Ill give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you. Ill remove the stone heart from your body and replace it with a heart thats Godwilled, not selfwilled. (27) Ill put my Spirit in you and make it possible for you to do what I tell you and live by my commands. (28) Youll once again live in the land I gave your ancestors. Youll be my people! Ill be your God!
Ezekiel 36:24-28 (MSG)
🙂
🙂 love the reading thank you for sharing! The last line is the best I think ‘you will be my people and I will be your God!! Awesome:)
Thought this was cool. And yes, going to bed now mi Amiga, mi corazon, mi amor.
God speaking through Jeremiah:(35) Instead of claiming to know what God says, ask questions of one another, such as How do we understand God in this? (36) But dont go around pretending to know it all, saying God told me this . . . God told me that. . . . I dont want to hear it anymore. Only the person I authorize speaks for me. Otherwise, my Message gets twisted, the Message of the living GodoftheAngelArmies.
Jeremiah 23:35-36 (MSG)
Very good! And I was fixing to ask lol Good Night Sweet Prince love ya Hippie:)
Father, thank You and praise You for your goodness and love. There is nothing more wonderful and precious than being in your awesome presence. There is nothing more exciting than seeing Your power and glory in everything that is and that happens. There is nothing more rewarding than following you. I am so thankful for your many blessings in my life, and I want to thank You now for Your blessing of bringing Carol into my life. Lord, I pray in Jesus Name that you would bless every aspect of her life. Thank you for watching over Carol and her family and protecting them. I ask, Father, that you would lead her in the calling you have for her. Instruct her in the way she should go, and strengthen her efforts through Your glorious power. Shower her with love and healing and hope and peace. Establish her in her daily walk with you and give her wisdom and spiritual understanding. Allow her to be fruitful and prosper in her every day life. Make her life a light to others that proclaims salvation and eternal life through Jesus Christ. Help me Father to be a worthy friend who supports and builds her up in her relationship with You. Help me to never be a stumbling block. Guide us as we seek together Your will for us. Lord, we desire to always put You first and want our relationship to always be according to Your will. We look for You and listen for You oh Lord. We welcome You in everything we do together and individually. We desire to glorify you and reach others for Christ in all that we do as a couple and individually. Amen.
October 27, 2013
Father, thank you for this beautiful day! For your presense in each moment that we walked today! Lord I ask you to guide me and Larry each step of our journey help us to always put you first no matter what. So we will be in your perfect will with all things. Give us the wisdom to thank you when times are good and to seek you when they are bad. Bless this man with all of his goings and comings. So he may be successful with everything he puts his heart and mind to,not just in material things but also spiritual, emotional and physical. Bless his whole family so they may have financial, health and most of all salvation! Father, show me what I can do to help Larry with lifting him up and praying and to step out of the way whenever I am a stumblingblock to him. Lord I also pray that you make me worthy to be his friend and what is in your plan for me to be to him. I am humbled by him each time I come in contact with him. I thank you again My Precious Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ Amen.
October 28, 2013
Psalms in message bible has been speaking to me tonight and I wanted to share this passage:
(65) Be good to your servant, God;be as good as your Word. (66) Train me in good common sense;Im thoroughly committed to living your way. (67) Before I learned to answer you, I wandered all over the place,but now Im in step with your Word. (68) You are good, and the source of good;train me in your goodness.(69) The godless spread lies about me,but I focus my attention on what you are saying;
(70) Theyre bland as a bucket of lard,while I dance to the tune of your revelation. (71) My troubles turned out all for the bestthey forced me to learn from your textbook. (72) Truth from your mouth means more to methan striking it rich in a gold mine. (73) With your very own hands you formed me;now breathe your wisdom over me so I can understand you. (74) When they see me waiting, expecting your Word,those who fear you will take heart and be glad.
(75) I can see now, God, that your decisions are right;your testing has taught me whats true and right.(76) Oh, love meand right now!hold me tight!just the way you promised.(77) Now comfort me so I can live, really live;your revelation is the tune I dance to. (78) Let the fasttalking tricksters be exposed as frauds;they tried to sell me a bill of goods,but I kept my mind fixed on your counsel.
(79) Let those who fear you turn to me for evidence of your wise guidance. (80) And let me live whole and holy, soul and body,so I can always walk with my head held high.
Psalms 119:65-80 (MSG)
Father, I place all of my life in your hands! Not just the side that I think is good or holy by appearance but I recognize that my life is like flithy rags and I have to surrender every piece to your authority. I pray that you forgive me where I have failed you. Cleanse my mouth so I only speak what you give. Wash my mind of all impure thoughts. Take away any covetness my heart may have. Forgive me Lord, for being insecure and having fear. I know in Your Word you tell me not to fear for it is not of You that you have given power, love and a sound mind!! Thank you Heavenly Father for the sweet aroma of a friendship that you are tending like a fragile rose and growing a tender and beautiful flower! For I can see, hear and touch the real love that is growing thru mine and Larry’s hearts!! I praise you with my feeble words of worship and ask you to sancitify and cover our relationship so we both may be worthy of one another. To care for each other’s needs, to respect and nourish the flowers you have growing in us. To be open with communication, knowing it is your voice that is heard first thru every aspect of our walk with you and each other. I praise you Father and thank for all things and I pray that you equip me with everything I need to go out and reach a dying world. In Jesus Holy Name, Amen
Something I just wrote… I know very childlike to a professional but wanted to share:)
Life Is Like…
My life is just vapor, I am passing quickly thru
My way is blown in the changing wind, My Master makes it true.
He takes my feeble hand and writes the story of his love. But my life is like a vapor and I am just passing thru!
In the darkness I will praise him, thru the storm he brings me calm.
If your life is like a vapor, you have a Saviour too.
Seek him in the morning, speak to him at night, he always pays attention and knows your smallest cry!
Jesus cries your tears that fall, he knows each struggle well. He will meet you on your knees or even grab your soul from the pits of hell.
Yes friend, life is like a vapor. But God’s love lasts eternally! He lifts you up to heaven so your future you can see. Seek him in the morning, talk with him at night, but listen to hear his love notes that carry you all thru time.
Hey Young Hippie,
Want to tell you this story and get your opinion. When we talk about it, we can text, but it is a little long to text in on my phone. It is much easy on the computer keyboard. My pastor friend and I were at lunch today at Hardees. His 12 year old granddaughter was with us. As we were eating, an unshaven, slightly rough looking man looking to be in his late 30s came past our table. Evidently, he had eaten and was leaving the restaurant. My friend nodded hello as he passed. My back was to him. He then approached our table and made a complimentary but humorous remark to my friend’s grandaughter, and she laughed. He said a couple more funny things. My friend asked his name, and he told us. His name was Johnny, and he said his dad, now deceased was named Guy. Some years back, when I was working as layout man for a environmental magazine called Wild Alabama, I had met a the dad who was a noted authority on the plants and herbs of the Bankhead Forest. The Guy I knew, a self-taught, self-made man of the forest, was also a poet and artist. I asked Johnny if his dad was the herbalist, and he said yes. He told us that he was married to a wonderful wife and had children who were the apple of his eye. At that moment, I felt a tugging in my spirit, sensing that God had brought him to our table. I began silently praying, asking God for help in knowing what to do. After a little talking, my pastor friend asked Johnny if his mother was a certain woman who used to sing in churches. He said no his mother never sang in any churches, and he sure was glad. At that point, my pastor friend asked him where he attended church. He told us that he did not really go to church but sometimes “drifted” around to different churches. He began telling us that he did not care for church or being around a bunch of religious people. My pastor friend told him he ought to “drift” out to his church some Sunday. Johnny again said he didn’t much like church. He told a story of sitting under a tree with his daddy, and his daddy telling him that the true church could be under that tree or anywhere, that God was not just in one place. My pastor friend said something like: “Well, if you would get your life straightened out and get right with God, you would want to find a church.” I felt the comment was a little harsh, so I asked the guy if his dad had taught him all of that knowledge about the forest and the plants. Johnny said that his brother, also now passed away, had been taught by the dad, and he had learned a little. I took that opportunity to say how awesome that God’s gift to his father had been. I was hesitant to invite him to my church, not wanting to override my friend’s invitation. Francis left to go to the bathroom, and I took that opportunity to tell Johnny about what God was doing at my church. I invited him to visit. He made no real comment, but I felt that God had connected with him through that. My friend came back. I felt in my heart, that the Lord want me to tell the man that He had a wonderful plan for him. At that point, my pastor friend and his grandaughter, seemed a little, tired of the conversation and shifted their attention away. And yet, Johnny continued to linger at our table. I didn’t feel able to say what God had put in my heart. So I shook hands with him and told him I was so glad to meet him and that I thought a lot of his dad. Then he left. He stayed at our table perhaps 20 minutes. I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that he was lost and God was speaking to his heart and had drawn him to our table. Out of respect for my friend and probably out of wanting him to take the lead in speaking about God, I failed to say everything God had lain on my heart. I realize now, God had brought the man over for me to talk to him. So I feel as if I failed to complete my mission. I was able to approach the man with respect and kindness and speak a little of God’s love. I was able to give directions to my church and invite him. Yet, I left the restaurant feeling as if my job was not done. The man’s name was Johnny. I am going to pray for him and ask God to give me a another chance to talk to him. I have thought of finding him out somewhere and trying to casually start the conversation again. But in my spirit, I feel that I have to now just give it to God.
October 29, 2013
Wrote a poem for you. It’s not too good. I was thinking about seeing Jesus someday and what it would be like to talk to Him and what I might say. And this is what came out.
When God calls me home
And I see Him I’ll say:
“Lord, back on earth, I saw you in everything, every day.”
I saw You in nature and in man’s greatest inventions,
And I saw You in all of man’s noblest intentions.
You guided the hands of the greatest physicians
And provided solutions for man’s gravest conditions
In all the good things, it was You in all
In all the good things both great and small
I saw you everywhere in all of the world
And most of all in the heart of my young hippie girl
Thank you Father for letting me see Jesus in everything. And thank you for putting young hippie in my life to remind me of your unfailing love and faithfulness. Amen.
Hey old hippie just wanted to say thank you for loving me thru God’s eyes! You have made almost 2 months of my life very blessed. Your belief in me warms my heart and I thank God for allowing me to get to know you! Yes, I guess I am having an attack of affection:) I appreciate your character, your caring ways and the sweetness you show me, no matter what. You have grown very close to me and I know we have to let God lead and we are going slow but felt I needed to share with you.
I have kind of had something on my mind since last night and I don’t know if its me or the ladies at the meeting but I feel I need to confide in you(honesty first) when the ladies ask how things were going with us, of course I lite up and started bragging and several of them kept saying “don’t go too fast” or “better slow down!” And it kinda hurt my heart. Even Ruby was like “I really like Larry and I believe he is a Godly man. But make ssure you have balance don’t just see the God things. You have to take time to see all sides of a person.” I understood what she was saying but I guess that placed a little doubt in my mind, am I in love with God and not seeing the man? Or am I questioning something that is nothing? Is it the devil trying to make me doubt what God is putting together?…. I think I am thinking too much!! Tell me your thoughts, please! Either way I still love you my old hippie:) your young hippie.
Hey Hippie, I’ve been having a constant attack of affection for you for a while, and since we got together in person, it feels stronger and more stable.
But I’m not saying that I disagree with the advice of Ruby or the ladies. I do agree on us going slow.
I may be wrong, but I think the ladies are assuming that we are going to not make the right choices about where the lines are that we don’t need to to cross too fast. I think they may be like me and have never really succeeded in staying in God’s will while dating. I think they have all been burned before in relationships, I know I have, and are warning you based on their experience. They don’t know me, but they do know men based on their own experience and, understandably, make assumptions about me.
I’ll stick this is separate paragraph to make it stand out. I am all man but nothing like most southern men. I’m not sure why I’m different, but I always was. I didn’t go the sports route in school and was a band member and music student. I never hunted or wanted to mess with guns and stuff. I’m not the stereotype at all. I was the studious type, the avid reader, the artistic type and all that. When I was 16, I was out on the road as a musician and by 18 playing all over the place, eventually out of the southeast into the southwest. So I missed on being initiated into the rites of the order of the the southeastern man. And I think that the ladies may think of that stereotype when they consider me. Having said that, you may discover things about me that aren’t good for you, that you won’t like. But we won’t know until we allow ourselves the chance to get to know each other. And i don’t think my bad side, whatever it consists of, is male chauvinistic.
I’ve actually been wanting us to talk about this for a while. I know it’s not quite like a personal letter, but I will number this so you won’t get lost in my rambling.
- We have made a commitment to put God first in our whole relationship. That includes our friendship and beyond. I’m learning as we go along about how to accomplish this, but I think it’s wonderful to try. So far so good I think.
- We should go slow in most areas. We should wait as long as it takes for a clear sign from God before moving forward in things like I will mention below.
For example, we must go slow as far as making life-altering commitments to each other. For instance, I don’t think it would be wise for us to announce our engagement to be married. We don’t know about that yet. And I don’t think it would be wise for us to compromise our morals for the sake of pleasing each other. Just two of many examples. But, to me, so far so good with us.
- We must not do anything to cause the other person to compromise family life, home life, job, church life and other things that are either domestic, stabilizing or part of future dreams and ambitions.
For example, I would never try to monopolize your time in a way that would keep you from spending time with Faith and Randy or doing your Mary Kay. On my end, I am only 7 years from full retirement and need to stay focused on doing a good job and not getting pulled into a place where I am neglectful of my obligation. And I have my music obligations that are important. So far so good with us I think?
- Truth, truth and more truth. Really it’s back to the God thing.
It is not necessary for us to tell everything, all the good, bad and ugly, right off. But as the time becomes appropriate and things need to be told, that might affect our decisions about us as a couple, let’s tell them. I don’t even care about what’s in your past unless it relates to our present and future somehow. I will try to make my life an open book for you.
And part of the truth in our lives is family, friends and people. I think we should not hold back on sharing the people in our lives with each other.
And as we get to know each other, we will learn about lifestyles, likes and dislikes. That should be truth-based between us.
- We need to spend time together talking, visiting, doing things together. We can’t know each other unless we make an investment of time into each other.
Having said all that, I don’t think it’s wrong for us to express what we are feeling. I haven’t felt like it was the wrong timing for us to meet and start doing some things together. It hasn’t seemed to me yet we are rushing. If it seems to fast for you, I will slow down to your pace. I think it’s important that we honestly express what we feel. If our feelings are out of place, then at least it will come out and we can deal with it.
I am so happy to be able to tell you what you mean to me and that I feel love for you. i don’t pretend to understand it, and I won’t be too quick to say it’s God, but sometimes my heart leaps all the way to the moon and back over you. Kissing you totally fries my brain and melts my heart, not in a bad or dirty way, but in a loving you way that longs for more. I may be way off in my feelings, and I’m sorry if I am, but knowing you has been wonderful to me and I want to have everything with you that God means for us to have together.
I will never hurt you on purpose or hold you against your will. I don’t want to force things in our relationship or speed anything up unnaturally. Even if we took 10 years and then decided we weren’t right for each other, I feel that I would still treasure every minute and be thankful and grateful.
I always want us to be friends first, but mi corazon you already feel like way more than a friend to me. If you don’t feel that way I understand. If we do keep moving forward, I couldn’t think of anything better than to be passionately in love with with my best friend. I kind of think that’s the way God meant for it to be between a man and a woman. And I think love and friendship are what distinguishes between godly relationship and lust.
K….might scared you off now for sure.
I really do love you young hippie. The boundaries of our relationship might change but my love and friendship won’t. your old hippie.
October 30, 2013
(43) Jesus said, Dont bicker among yourselves over me. (44) Youre not in charge here. The Father who sent me is in charge. He draws people to methats the only way youll ever come. Only then do I do my work, putting people together, setting them on their feet, ready for the End. (45) This is what the prophets meant when they wrote, And then they will all be personally taught by God. Anyone who has spent any time at all listening to the Father, really listening and therefore learning, comes to me to be taught personallyto see it with his own eyes, hear it with his own ears, from me, since I have it firsthand from the Father. (46) No one has seen the Father except the One who has his Being alongside the Fatherand you can see me.
John 6:43-46 (MSG)
Hey Hippie, just read over your letter from yesterday again. Then I noticed the verses you put on! I love the way you express yourself and just wanted to touch on a few things while they are on my mind, I may have said them before but I feel they are worth repeating. First, I want to thank you for considering my feelings in all things. I appreciate the concern you go out of your way to offer me. I am continiously smiling because of the love that flows from your spirit. I do believe God is working in both of our lives as far as allowing us to share our whole hearts thru all of the messages, texts and calls. And even the few visits we have shared. I know it is easy to be infatuated with a person on paper or in public however, I also believe that God has divine appointments for his children and they are for his purpose. I am starting to think God saw our situations and our hearts and He knew we both needed mending and healing. Our relationship is based on God’s Will, He sees our needs and He knows what we can do for each other and others. Our friendship is already so important to me. More than that, the love I feel growing is amazing! And God given in every way.
Well, my facials just called and are coming early:) so if I get a chance I will write more later. Hope I haven’t scared you off now. Love ya Hippie always and forever, young Hippie.
Hey Young Hippie, no way you’ll scare me off! I feel confident that God brought us together to share something meaningful and wonderful.
I can ‘t say for you, but there has been a healing taking place inside of me since we started talking.
The Holy Spirit has been prompting me to examine my motives and look at areas of my life that were either neglected or where perhaps I had created some kind of idea about myself that wasn’t really true. This purging is still going on in me as we get to know each other better, and as each step of the way, it becomes necessary to try and honor God and be truthful.
God has put it into my heart to try to be real with you even if it does scare you off.
I do think that there is the possibility of us becoming infatuated. And i think the solution to keep that from happening is for us to be dedicated to including God in every step we take together and to always well grounded in truth as best as we know it.
It may not be this way for you, but for me, from past experience, being infatuated with someone always includes a rich world of fantasy in my mind where I am developing a mental picture of the relationship based not on the facts but where I hope it will go. That has caused me to make some stupid mistakes by acting on assumptions that were not based on facts but rather based on how I had mentally pictured things. I have learned that this is one of the ways that Satan works…trying to lure people off the path of God’s through fantasies based on desires that have no foundation in reality.
As we continue to grow together into a friendship and relationship, we will also continue to learn new things about each other that weren’t known before. The idea of that is a little scary to me because I fear being inadequate in all sorts of ways.
But I’m excited because I totally believe that God put this challenge in front of us – to get to know each other for who we really are and not for who we want each other to think we are.
Whatever we decide about where our relationship goes will be based on God speaking to us and on loving and liking each other for who we really are. How cool is that?
This is not going to be easy for us to do. But if we can continue to the best of our ability to do what is right then always and forever either as friends or as a couple, we will respect and trust each other and at least know that there is one person in the world we can go to when we need the truth. Remind me to tell you a little bit more about Francis bringing his granddaughter Mararee to see if she could take over doing the church website.
i am amazed at how what i feel in my heart for you is growing! I can truly say that the feelings I have for you do not make me have to push God out of my heart. i haven’t yet felt a prick of conviction from the Holy Spirit that any feelings in my heart and mind for you are wrong. I pray right now in Jesus Name that God will convict me of anything I do regarding me and you that is against His will. I ask that He will let you know if something i am doing is not right and give you the courage to face me and confront me about it. I ask the Father to give me the strength to swallow my pride, overcome and immediately correct thoughts, feeling and actions related to you that are not appropriate. Amen.
My heart is full of love and tenderness for you. I feel eager to talk to you and see you more. I want to learn about you and share your life and prayers and dreams and support you in them. And for lack of a better way to say it: You bring sunshine into all aspects of my life. When I pray about us, I see God smiling.
yep, you got me wrapped around your little finger alright. I just love you! always your old hippie!
From Proverbs. This is the kind of man I want to become
Kind and compassionate (12:10)
honest (29:24)
hard-working (12:11; 27:23-27)
truthful (12:17,19)
self-controlled (12:15; 16:32)
to have a gentle tongue (12:18; 15:1-2,4)
generous (14:21; 28:27)
willing to be corrected (even by the woman in his life) and listens
to counsel (12:15; 15:12,31-32; 28:13; 29:1)
a man of integrity (19:1; 20:7)
faithful and reliable (17:17; 29:3; contrast 25:19; 31:3)
forgiving (19:11)
willing to admit i am wrong (28:13).
humble (15:25,33; 16:18-19; 18:12; 29:23)
a man not contentious, but a peacemaker (17:1; 18:1,19)
a man in control of his temper (14:29; 16:32; 17:27; 29:11)
a man who avoids excesses (20:1; 23:20-21, 29-35; 31:3-9)
a man with a concern for others, especially the poor and the
oppressed (29:7)
a man who can keep a confidence (17:9; 26:20)
a man who fears God and is obedient to His Word (13:13; 14:26; 16:20;
28:25; 31:30)
a man who is not a jealous man (27:4)
a man who has a positive outlook on life (15:15; 17:22; 18:14)
Oh Old Hippie it seems the more we talk, the more my heart soars! I wish I could explain the peace, love and security I receive when I hear(read) your words. I just feel everything will be fine, whether it really is or not, I know it will eventually work out for the good.
I love what you desire to be and I will tell you I desire to be a proverbial woman and why… at my Moma’s funeral Bro Henry Melton preached and he said that she was the true example and then he read the scripture. As I sat there and listened I could honestly say she was every one of those qualities. At that moment, I ask God to mold me in to that type of lady! I admire my Moma for what she sacrificed for us girls. I know of many nights she would barely eat so we would have enough. Some of those ways were instilled in me from seeing what family meant to her. But some I still have to really work on. But we can do all things thru Christ whom strengthens us!
Just sent what I was writing one by accident and two noticed you were on line lol guess its for work but it still got me excited!
I will tell you I do have feelings of arousal at times with you but even that doesn’t feel dirty or wrong. Feels like God is allowing me to feel what our relationship might be leading to(wow! She can’t believe she just said that) and one thing I am a little concerned about is when we are totally alone, that is when true testing comes in. I know we will have to handle that when the time comes but I wanted to let you know it has crossed my mind. I don’t feel like it has been fantasy, like sexual or anything like that, but I am curious to where this all is going. I know I know just sit back and enjoy the ride! Anyways, think I have kinda wandered off from the whole point I started with but that is one thing I love about you, I may go around to 10 different stores for that one gallon of milk but you are content to travel right along with me!! Love you Hippie, my friend, my heart, my love:)
Hey…I’m feel about the same things as you are I think, like that word you said, the a word. lol. But I won’t let my mind go to a sexual fantasy about you, and when it heads that way I don’t dwell on it. I pray about it (he says somewhat embarrassed at being so candid). That’s not real, so I don’t want to go there.
Whatever God leads us to, I want it to be real and fresh, not just a role playing thing based on some mental picture. As God opens up the doors that allow us to get closer affectionally, I want to experience each moment for the first time, a moment of discovery between us, that is born of that moment and sincere (now he is even more embarrassed).
I think when people allow themselves to have fantasies that are not based on reality, and then try to play them out, it unlikely that the reality will match the fantasy and that person or someone else may be offended or hurt some way. At the very minimum, if I let my mind conjure up a mental picture of who I think you are, it is unlikely to be accurate.
I have allowed myself to store away the treasured memories of our tender moments, both through our words to each other and the times we met.
I remember every detail of that first time, going up the hill, that you grabbed my hand. And I remember and love everything about your eyes and how it feels to look into them and see you look at me.
I remember the first time you snuggled up against me, and it just felt natural and comfortable. And I remember each kiss as if it were only a moment ago.
None of those experiences feel dirty or sinful or out of God’s will in any way to me. They feel fresh and clean and pure and good.
Those are beautiful memories. And though I won’t allow myself to fantasy about it, I long for more. I look forward to truly being your Cuddle Bear and long for the chance to cuddle up with you and feel you against me and if it seems right to you to kiss you again and more often. I long for more if it is in God’s will and I do feel a longing to blend with you and become. But for us I want it to be in God’s will, real, fresh and new and pure.
I’m stopping here only because I got to get going. In light of what I just blabbed about on the phone I want to say one more thing. I know we are not really dating and far from making a commitment. But I want to let you know that I am a one woman man. I don’t believe it is right to “play the field” and see more than one person at the same time. I’m not trying to put that as a requirement for you, I’m just saying that if the time comes when we can say we are seeing each other, you can know that I’m not seeing or seeking anyone else.
Have I scared you off!
I love you young hippie. mi amiga, mi Corazon, mi amor always. Old Hippie.
What a beautiful love letter! You make me all slurrpie inside:) seriously though I think I got somewhat embarrassed in reading it. Not so much that you said anything wrong. But where my mind was going(yes I reeled it back in) I pray that all things come in God’s timing because I, the same as you, don’t want any of ‘us’ to be false, fantasy or hidden. Which we know nothing is hidden from God of course, but I don’t want to feel like we have anything hidden from others. For instance, if 10 years down the road we were talking with a young couple, I want us to be able to look them in the eye and say ‘we waited until marriage’. No, don’t worry I am not proposing or saying we ever would but that is one of the issues I would have to be honest about and wouldn’t want to have to say otherwise. Like I did with my marriage, I wasn’t proud to have to admit to the kids that me and their Dad didn’t wait.
There are other honest points like the truth that we have already discussed. I always want to feel like we are being honest and open with each other. I don’t ever want to feel like I have to keep up with even a white lie or wonder if you are being totally honest. Like I said we have already discussed those things and I agree, so far so good, I think.
For the matter of one man woman…just call me ‘ole yeller’ lol I have never dated more than one man at a time and don’t think I could if I wanted to! For one I am not cordinated enough and second as you can see when a man sparks my interest I devote all of my extra(and some not so extra) time in getting to know him. Learning about what makes him tick. And have no interest in anyone else until it is completely done. I am like you said ‘not a rebounder’ its shocking that I considered even talking with you so soon but, God knew more than I did(as usual) and I felt a desire to at least talk with you. I think you were so considerate and not pushy whatsoever on your first message, that might have been what started the melting of my heart.
And I am about done going to all of the stores, think I have the milk now lol the main thing that I want to express is I am so very very blessed to know you Larry * Smith!!! What is your middle name? I don’t think you ever said…hmmm must be a good one! You are my best friend. I think I have told you more already than I ever told Rick after being married to him 25 years, this year if he was still living!! That says a whole lot!!! I appreciate who you are…my friend, my heart, my love and my Cuddle Bear:) love you my awesome hippie! Your young hippie.October 31, 2013Hey hippie! I don’t think I have phone service but for now I still have fb:) just wanted to say good night sweet prince and I love you! I pray you have an awesome day tomorrow! My friend, my heart, my love. Your young hippie:)
I may not get to talk with you tomorrow so just wanted to write what I could before this is taken away too. I am already going thru withdrawals and it hasn’t been an hour yet! Old Hippie you have me wrapped around your little finger already. I am so glad we have been able to grow as close as we are. You have already become someone I feel I can share anything with and you won’t think less of me. I feel the same way about you no matter what you would say I believe I could accept it. I trust you more than any man or person I have ever known(that is a biggie) I hope you know how hard it is to say that much less think it!! I pray we will always have that type of relationship to where either one of us can say exactly what is on our mind. I am so so thankful for you in my life! I am starting to get sleepy now so I will close just wanted to express again. How much you do mean to me, my wonderful krazy special hippie:) love you with all my heart your hippie always:)
Hi Young Hippie…i got to work and saw your FB message. I was so excited! I’m already missing you, but thank God it’s only for a little while. I long for you, but I still feel at peace because what we share with each other is God-focused and grounded in Christ. So I believe that the relationship we have established is secure. I just can’t describe how dear you have become to me. It sounds funny when I say it since we are so new to each other but the words don’t seem hollow at all when I say them.
My middle name is (he signals for the drum roll…) Wayne! Wayne was the name of an uncle of mine who passed away before I was born. So what’s yours?
I completely agree that when we talk about trying our best to do what is right before God and being honest it should be more than just talk. If it’s not, our witness to others is not any good. We don’t want to be a stumbling block, and we don’t want to be compelled to lie to others, for example a young couple, because we are not really who we profess to be.
And I agree about “white lies”. Half-truths, white lies or even omissions (not telling something) are lies just the same as big lies.
It’s hard to not tell white lies or omit when you have been guilty of it for years and it has become second nature. Outside of our relationship, I’ve been making a conscious effort for the last several years not to do this, and I have gotten better. Within our relationship, I am making a huge effort to tell the full truth and doing pretty good I think.
We can do it, as far a being honest, because we are letting God lead in our relationship. He is the one who will determine how far our relationship goes, and we don’t have to struggle to win each other’s affection through our own strength.
God has evidently put an abundance of affection in our hearts for each other already. My heart is bursting with affection for you!
i told you this before. But God has put it in my heart to trust you completely. By nature, i am not trustful of people. From my experience, even people who have good intentions will usually end up letting you down. But God did something marvelous as far as my trust for you. He put it into my spirit to give our relationship completely to Him. He said, you can give Carol your trust because through trusting her you showing your trust for Me.
Anyway, I hope you are having a great day. I am remembering you in prayer.
I miss you terribly already! I love you with all my heart and look forward to seeing where God is taking us. My heart is full of love and affection just for you. Your old Hippie.
Here are songs I’ve been listening to today Young Hippie
Song of Solomon by Sara Groves
Disenchanted love and an intimacy that’s broken
The symbol of all trust, used to self-gratify
In the middle of it all Solomon is singing
You are my bride, my perfect one
Sweet song of Solomon
Remind us of love much purer than our own
Sweet song of Solomon
Remind us of love much purer than our own
The goodness of human love is taken for granted
We turn it into a lust that tears us apart
We give up God’s gifts for dust and ashes
And blame him for the pain growing in our hearts
Keep on singing Solomon
Keep on singing Solomon
I’m for you and you’re for me and we’ve been set apart
Place me like a seal over your heart
Testimony
By Sara Groves
So proud and excited that I by myself
had reached such a lofty place
I took the last step towards my ultimate goal
but clumsily fell on my face
I opened my eyes only to find
I was back at the place I had begun
Helpless and broken I strained and cried out
Surely the enemy has won
But I felt His peace that passes understanding
Grace that is never ending
Love that overflows my soul
As I wallowed in self-pity
He came to sit with me there
His presence alone was so rich and so deep
It chased away all my despair
I said Lord please forgive me for my prideful heart
It sneaks in before I know
He said What prideful heart, He forgave and forgot
He said How I want you to know
Now daily I humble myself at His feet
I make His desire my will
For He has taken me higher than I have ever been
And He’s taking me higher still
I feel His peace that passes understanding
Grace that is never ending
Love that overflows my soul
Hey Hippie…it’s evening and I’ve been texting with you. It was nice of Faith to give up her phone for a while.
I know you had a trying day today. Don’t ever think you are unloading on me too much. I want to share your life with you, and I’m interested in what’s going on with you. If you are happy, I can be happy with you, and if you feel down, I hope I can comfort you and lift you up.
At the same time, I respect the things In your life that may be private or just meant for you and the kids. At this stage, I feel that you may need to be able to just be with family or others you are close without me interfering. I don’t mind. I’ll be here waiting when you come back to me.
I want you to feel free and be free. I want you to be my young hippie because it feels good and right for you.
Walking step by step into God’s will for us is turning out to be the most awesome and beautiful phase of my entire life. I am forever grateful to God and you for including me in your life. Only God knows the outcome, but by acknowledging and following Him we won’t go wrong, and I believe that the joy and love and warmth of heart we feel now will keep growing and growing.
you and I are living eternal life in Christ right now and following His Way. I feel blessed and honored to walk beside you on that path.
better go for now. But I sure do love you and my heart belongs to you.
Talk to you soon.
mi amiga, mi Corazon y mi amor always
Your old Hippie
November 1, 2013
Just read your messages and as always they warm my heart! Thank you, my sweet sweet love! You have been a beacon to my darkness. And I hate that you kind of witnessed one of my meltdowns yesterday. Normally I can keep moving forward and little things like money or doing without doesn’t affect me. But, something happened when I wasn’t able to make contact with you and. Well, I can’t describe it. I felt like my spiritual support was being cut-off! I had to step back and realize I truly enjoy Larry Wayne(yes I noticed and mine is….drum roll plz!…Faith) as a friend and everything God is molding us into but, the Lord is my Rock and my Salvation!! I must never put anyone before that. So, I have backed up, apologized to God and I apologize to you. Even though I am so very grateful to you for being that sounding board and caring man that you are. I know God is building something greater here than what either of us have had before and I trust his way no matter what! Yes! I always want you to be the wonderful person you are but also remind me to give it to the One and Only ‘i Am’ he will supply all of our needs!! Yesterday was a lesson on my journey not only did I learn that God is always giving us beauty for our ashes but He also showed me that you didn’t bolt when things got yucky:) thank you and I do love you my friend, my heart, my love. I am prayiing for you today to be blessed with all things, that the sun will shine upon you and you will smile no matter what comes your way. For we are children of the most High!!! And just for the record…I love being your young Hippie:) you will always be my Cuddle Bear, love you old Hippie in every Godly way!
Yay!! I love bombarding! I am looking forward to it:) …young Hippie Loves U
Morning again Carol Faith 🙂. I didn’t freak at all at your meltdown. But I felt helpless to not be able to really be there for you. Different people have different ways of dealing with things, and we will have to learn each others ways. When we did talk, i wasn’t sure what my boundaries were as far as putting in my two-cents.
I guess the bottom line is that God is our Rock and Salvation, so whom shall we fear? Certainly not the circumstances of life! I don’t know how you are, but when I am in the midst of a meltdown, all of my defenses drop and i feel helpless and as if the world is caving in on top of me. If other people (family, friends, co-workers) are affected then I feel as if I have failed them.
And that is often how I approach God in the wake of a meltdown, as if i am condemned or have committed an unpardonable sin. i find myself repenting for circumstances that sometimes were beyond my control to begin with though I don’t mean to deny any responsibility.
Most of our troubles in life have a direct connection to our actions and we are ultimately the cause of troubles one way or the other. My opinion is that people give Satan too much credit for causing their problems. In my opinion (he says, being careful because he has a problem with putting his foot in his mouth), Satan doesn’t have to work all that hard to pull us down. We usually do the work for him.
But, having said that, once we have given our lives and circumstances to God, it is done. From that point on we have victory over whatever it is, even if it doesn’t seem so on the surface. So, in my opinion (he says, mainly talking to himself not her) we can’t let ourselves fall into condemnation any longer. What matters now is that we do remember to acknowledge Him and that we begin to make good choices as we move ahead and not let circumstances that no longer have any power over us pull us down.
You said it right when you said that we have to remember who is our Rock and Salvation. It is the Lord! Whether we put something else before Him or simply fail to acknowledge our victory in Him is certain and final!
One other thing: God uses people to accomplish His will and fulfill His purpose. We are Christ’s representatives on earth. He uses people to convey messages, to bring hope and to initiate healing. He uses people to be a help to others in a time of trouble. If we so much as put a cup of cold water into the hands of someone who is thirsty, it is just as if He did it Himself. And He put you and me into each others lives for something.
Better go for now and get work done. God be with you in everything you do today. I pray that the presence and love of Jesus Christ in you and around you will be apparent, something you can feel and see everywhere.
And just for the record (he says feeling happy tears forming in his eyes), I want you to always be my young hippie, and being your Cuddle Bear is awesome! I can’t wait to see where God takes us on our journey together!
I love you mi amiga, mi corazon y mi amor…your old hippie.
You are my cup of cold water!! When I talk with you I feel God speaking words of encouragement! I thank you for allowing God to use you in my life. You are exactly right, the devil doesn’t have to work very hard to get God’s child discouraged, we seem to play the lead role. As always, I am thankful for you and your loving words:) my heart skips a beat when you say how happy you are to be my hippie! Have you ever thought about soulmates? Never gave it much thought until I met you…if nothing else you are my kindred Spirit, love you your young hippie.
© 2022 by Larry and Carol Smith
But Ruth replied, “Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Wherever you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord punish me severely if I allow anything but death to separate us! (Ruth 1:16-17 NLT)”
Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance (1 Corinthians 13:7 NLT).
Live happily with the woman you love through all the meaningless days of life that God has given you under the sun. The wife God gives you is your reward for all your earthly toil (Ecclesiastes 9:9 NLT).
The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life (Proverbs 31:11-12 ESV).
In case you missed parts one and two, here are the links:
Foot Prints On The Trail 