Dear family and friends,

   I hope in your day you have found the wonderful benefits of trusting the Lord. There is nothing like the restful peace a heart experiences as we are surrendered to His plans. Even without seeing the whole picture we can be assured of God's unchanging love for us!

   What do I mean by using the title Instead Of? Well, 4 years ago today, we moved into the nearly finished apartment beside our kids place. I call it our garage suite as it was a single car garage. During our stay here, I have learned lessons about my attitudes, beliefs and how to grow in the Word like never before.

   We have to replace a ruined ceiling from last winters leaks, lay a carpet over the cement floor to keep the cold out and a few other things. You know the renovation takes lots of time and some money too. But, the other thing it takes is patience and a trust that Father God knows what is best. He meets all our needs.

   I think that is called contentment. Sitting outside, trying to capture some sparse rays of sunshine to warm my back, I suddenly understood what contentment feels like. It is for me, a warming that settles all issues and questions. Knowing God has my back and my future. There is a reality of now and how important it is to relax and enjoy the moments.

   I tend to be a worrier. I overthink the process of things. Look too closely with an analytical mind. Since the last few months of dealing with this disease process, I have grown up some. Probably not completely. At least not for a woman of 65. But, I am better emotionally and mentally no matter what my body is crying out for.

   As I watched the sparrows and chickadees eating from the feeder, one little sparrow caught my attention. He looked ruffled, like a teenager trying different hair styles out. It made me laugh outloud! I saw myself just like that little bird. After only a moment he took off and in his wake little downy feathers floated into the breeze. The promise of maturity.

   Autumn is my favorite time of year I think because of the colorful changes that can happen so quickly. One day you look and things are still green. The next morning the leaves have turned their brilliant golds and reds. I am in the same season of my life. Surprised and delighted at the Lord's handiwork. I am being transformed into His image day by day. Praise the Lord!

   Changes don't have to keep us in a weakened and infirm state; debilitated. As I listened to the breeze in the trees around me I thought, I am free indeed! My strength and my vigor comes from God. In His time. So I can live day to day trusting His perfect plans. Remember last we met, the song, "He Lives!"

   So, instead of...the wearisome, stressful garment of worry...trust completely the hand that holds you. Instead of...compaining about the process...rest in His Words; all found in His Love letter to us. Instead of...allowing the thoughts come from the enemy to rob, destroy and kill you slowly...lift up Praise to the matchless name of the Lord!

   The great secret of Christianity is we have the indwelling of Holy Spirit immediatly following our new birth! All we need, all our dreams, hopes and desires stem from relationship with Him.

   From God's heart to yours He says in Zephaniah 3:17..."The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing."

   Can you imagine this? Ponder on this for awhile! God is delightfully singing over you! I wonder what His voice sounds like? Like the sound of the wind in the trees? Like the song of a sparrow? Or maybe like a gentle brook? I can't wait to hear Him speak my new name and sing a song I can understand.

   Ephesians 3:20-21 is one of my favorites..."Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitatly beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]---To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throught all generations forever and ever, Amen, (so be it)." Yes Lord!

   So be it...the challenges we face take great courage. The surrender of our thoughts, great trust. The longings presented to Him in worship, great faith.

   I hope you receive what the Holy Spirit would give you today through Heartstrings. I am believing for your good and His glory. In whatever way we can express our love for the Lord, we need to do it because it will make a huge difference during the trials that come.

   Instead of...trying to manage your life dependant on your abilities, come to Jesus. He has the whole thing in His hands and will keep you. God bless.

Abundance is....our unchanging God