A Look at New Year's Eve,
With Suggestions for New Year's Day
Will it be another grand occasion,
A New Year’s celebration,
A putting-on an attitude, party-on time?
Will there be parades for viewing,
Football games, and over-doing,
All the sociable expectations that come to mind?
Or will there be time for introspection,
Honest sizing-up intentions,
Looking for a sincerely spiritual point of view?
Could we look past the drinking, eating,
the people that we’re meeting,
not neglecting what’s most important for anyone to do?
We could pause for reflection,
Confess we’ve missed perfection,
Gratefully consider how greatly God has been blessing you.
Learn from situations of the past,
Forgive each other now, at last,
And schedule in time to daily pray and read God’s Word, too.
So, let’s go past the decorations,
The New Year’s speculations,
Despite the troubles looming all around the world we see.
Let’s choose to have a brand-new Year
With confidence, not fear,
Trusting and walking with the Lord obediently.
by Elaine Hardt ©2006
EncouragingU * * * * * * * * * * * * We ALL need a word of encouragement once in awhile.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
No Leftovers Today
Christmas took all my energies;
it used up all my time.
My pocketbook is busted;
I'm down to my last dime.
At church last night I heard the news
my heart was glad to hear;
There's a way-out Way to happiness
and God is very near.
Leftovers are the only thing
that I have plenty of;
But God doesn't send leftovers
when He gives us His love.
The Lord's gift is salvation
so I gave Him my heart;
The New Year looks brighter, and
off to a better start.
I said goodbye to leftovers
of stress and aggravation;
I'm part of God's family now
in joyful celebration.
by Elaine Hardt ©1994
it used up all my time.
My pocketbook is busted;
I'm down to my last dime.
At church last night I heard the news
my heart was glad to hear;
There's a way-out Way to happiness
and God is very near.
Leftovers are the only thing
that I have plenty of;
But God doesn't send leftovers
when He gives us His love.
The Lord's gift is salvation
so I gave Him my heart;
The New Year looks brighter, and
off to a better start.
I said goodbye to leftovers
of stress and aggravation;
I'm part of God's family now
in joyful celebration.
by Elaine Hardt ©1994
Thursday, December 24, 2009
The Remarkable Night Before Christmas
'Twas the night before Christmas
and in the shopping mall
crowds of children waved goodbye as
jolly Santa left the hall.
Harried parents dashed out of the stores
clutching their bags of toys
and gathered up their waiting youngsters,
the happy girls and boys.
Then off to the church they went
just across the street
for the children's evening program
and the promise of a treat.
and in the shopping mall
crowds of children waved goodbye as
jolly Santa left the hall.
Harried parents dashed out of the stores
clutching their bags of toys
and gathered up their waiting youngsters,
the happy girls and boys.
Then off to the church they went
just across the street
for the children's evening program
and the promise of a treat.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Eleanor's Reluctant Gift
A lovely day for shopping. Here in Harold’s up-scale department store at least the décor had not slummed into that tacky Christmas look. The staff always wore a professional black and the only nod to the season were the thousands of tiny silver tinsels draped over bare manzanita branches in huge, stark white pots. Classical music was not intrusive; the aisles were not cluttered with harried shoppers. It suited Eleanor just right.
“Mrs. Brill, oh Mrs. Brill,” the lilting voice behind the Mistique makeup counter caught her attention.
“Constance?” the matron turned from the new display of flavored lip gloss. Reading the expression of the girl, she instantly softened. “Yes?”
“Mrs. Brill, begging your pardon, but we’ve all been looking for you. That is, we’ve been expecting to hear from you.” Words tumbled out with sweet concern.
“Mrs. Brill, oh Mrs. Brill,” the lilting voice behind the Mistique makeup counter caught her attention.
“Constance?” the matron turned from the new display of flavored lip gloss. Reading the expression of the girl, she instantly softened. “Yes?”
“Mrs. Brill, begging your pardon, but we’ve all been looking for you. That is, we’ve been expecting to hear from you.” Words tumbled out with sweet concern.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Your Last Christmas
No sooner had Emmett pulled his ’89 Chevvie into the driveway, than he heard the voice. “This is your last Christmas.”
Startled, he exclaimed, “Dang, I must’ve bumped that radio knob again,” but as he reached over he was surprised to find the radio wasn’t on. A baffled look crossed his weathered face as he turned off the ignition and slowly climbed out of the truck. Standing there in November’s chill morning he was suddenly in charge. With emphatic deliberation he strode to the front door and entered the house.
A strong cup of coffee later he sat at the kitchen table and scratched out a list of To Do on a yellow tablet. It looked like his response to the puzzling voice was to ignore it and double his efforts at keeping busy. After all, it was Friday.
Startled, he exclaimed, “Dang, I must’ve bumped that radio knob again,” but as he reached over he was surprised to find the radio wasn’t on. A baffled look crossed his weathered face as he turned off the ignition and slowly climbed out of the truck. Standing there in November’s chill morning he was suddenly in charge. With emphatic deliberation he strode to the front door and entered the house.
A strong cup of coffee later he sat at the kitchen table and scratched out a list of To Do on a yellow tablet. It looked like his response to the puzzling voice was to ignore it and double his efforts at keeping busy. After all, it was Friday.
Friday, December 18, 2009
God's Gas Station
I was tooling along in my ’54 Ford this morning when I noticed a flashing light on the dashboard. Oooops! Looks like she’s running low on gas. Taking a quick detour from Procrastination Boulevard I headed out to God’s Gas Station.
After filling up at the first pump I dashed into God’s 24 Hour Convenience Store to settle up for the fuel. Impulsively, I decided to pick up a few other necessities.
After filling up at the first pump I dashed into God’s 24 Hour Convenience Store to settle up for the fuel. Impulsively, I decided to pick up a few other necessities.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
A Peek at God's Daily Plan Book
It was early, and the office was quiet. I settled into my chair, and opened my daily appointment and plan book. Nearly every line had a notation, some more urgent than others. Call today! Reschedule Appointment! Write plans! Submit plans!
Yes, there was a 30 minute break, penciled in as “20 minute aerobics in company gym.” Lunch would be at Zombini’s, but there’d be a salesman meeting with me to discuss a new project. Afternoon would be a real killer — a delegation from our southern region factory for “show and tell.” After that, a detailed report for the boss, placed on his desk before leaving for the day.
On the one hand, several of the items positively energized me. I could hardly wait to try my hand with the prototype mechanism dreamed up by the youthful guys and gals in the technology department. And lunch out would be preferable to another tuna sandwich, concocted and refrigerated overnight, resulting in soggy bread.
“God, what a day!” I mumbled.
Yes, there was a 30 minute break, penciled in as “20 minute aerobics in company gym.” Lunch would be at Zombini’s, but there’d be a salesman meeting with me to discuss a new project. Afternoon would be a real killer — a delegation from our southern region factory for “show and tell.” After that, a detailed report for the boss, placed on his desk before leaving for the day.
On the one hand, several of the items positively energized me. I could hardly wait to try my hand with the prototype mechanism dreamed up by the youthful guys and gals in the technology department. And lunch out would be preferable to another tuna sandwich, concocted and refrigerated overnight, resulting in soggy bread.
“God, what a day!” I mumbled.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Winter's Possibilities
Hunker down or venture out?
That’s winter’s perplexity,
There’s positives and negatives
in winter’s possibilities.
How bad will the weather get?
And how long will that last?
Can we make it to the store
Or wait until the storm is past?
An artist will see the beauty
While you and I shovel snow;
When mama snaps the photographs
Our rosy cheeks aglow.
Bundled up from head to toe,
Kids enjoying snowy days;
Sledding, skiing, skating,
Winter fun in many ways.
Winter settles in awhile,
But soon we’ll hope for spring;
Trusting God for endurance,
Taking time for remembering.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
That’s winter’s perplexity,
There’s positives and negatives
in winter’s possibilities.
How bad will the weather get?
And how long will that last?
Can we make it to the store
Or wait until the storm is past?
An artist will see the beauty
While you and I shovel snow;
When mama snaps the photographs
Our rosy cheeks aglow.
Bundled up from head to toe,
Kids enjoying snowy days;
Sledding, skiing, skating,
Winter fun in many ways.
Winter settles in awhile,
But soon we’ll hope for spring;
Trusting God for endurance,
Taking time for remembering.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Learning from Experience, Yours & Theirs
Congratulations on living as long as you have! You must have learned a lot of things, by now. Have you thought about this: what you now know may be interesting or helpful to someone else?
And consider this: many of us have thrown away a lesson we once learned, simply because we never thought it through, and we have never written it down. We struggled, survived, but then forgot it.
If we’ve coped with some calamity, but haven’t analyzed the situation, then there’s a big chance that we may face another calamity and have to learn the hard way, again. To profit from our past experiences we need to make sense of the cause and effect.
Tensions, temptations and transitions come to all. None of us will live long enough to make all the mistakes and learn all the lessons first-hand. Learning from experiences — good and bad — of others can save us a lot of time!
And consider this: many of us have thrown away a lesson we once learned, simply because we never thought it through, and we have never written it down. We struggled, survived, but then forgot it.
If we’ve coped with some calamity, but haven’t analyzed the situation, then there’s a big chance that we may face another calamity and have to learn the hard way, again. To profit from our past experiences we need to make sense of the cause and effect.
Tensions, temptations and transitions come to all. None of us will live long enough to make all the mistakes and learn all the lessons first-hand. Learning from experiences — good and bad — of others can save us a lot of time!
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Expectations
The invitation arrived in a pure white envelope, embossed with gold with a stunning red logo; it fairly exuded opulence and I was impressed. So it was that on that night I drove down a country lane, expecting to see a large estate aglow with Christmas lights. Ah, lifestyles of the rich and famous, here I come. Perhaps valet parking? I’d selected the nicest outfit I had in the closet, and felt fairly assured that I could muster enough confidence to fit in with the holiday gathering. My expectations had risen to a tingling new height. I probably smiled all the way up the Interstate.
Sure enough, there were glittering lights, but only on a handrail, leading up some steps to a rather modest looking mobile home.
Sure enough, there were glittering lights, but only on a handrail, leading up some steps to a rather modest looking mobile home.
Friday, December 04, 2009
Order Now for Christmas
Step right up, place your order here.
No hassle, no strain,
No confusion on the brain.
An old Christmas? A new Christmas?
A decorator holiday?
You can order what you may.
Laid-back or a lot of fun?
but -- Santa's not the one --
Check in with your Father, as you should;
His Christmas plans are always good!
Jesus came to be your friend,
So Christmas never needs to end
for He is always near.
— Elaine Hardt ©1993
No hassle, no strain,
No confusion on the brain.
An old Christmas? A new Christmas?
A decorator holiday?
You can order what you may.
Laid-back or a lot of fun?
but -- Santa's not the one --
Check in with your Father, as you should;
His Christmas plans are always good!
Jesus came to be your friend,
So Christmas never needs to end
for He is always near.
— Elaine Hardt ©1993
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
It's That Time of Year Again
The days have added up to December,
We barely got acquainted with November.
Now decorating is the thing to do;
I’m nearly worn out, how about you?
But the Christmas spirit is in the air,
We hope the weather will be fair.
We’ve tried hard not to spend too much,
Yet wanted again that festive touch.
We made a list and checked it twice,
Planned everything to turn out nice.
Quiet moments we’ve had so few,
Still here is wishing the best for you.
A potpourri of holiday writing,
Then a fond wish for season’s delighting.
If I could, I would give you the time
and read to you this writing of mine.
Nevertheless, you’re on your own,
Hope you’ll enjoy it when you’re alone.
A meaningful, marvelous celebration so bright,
Remembering God’s gift to us on that long-ago night.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
We barely got acquainted with November.
Now decorating is the thing to do;
I’m nearly worn out, how about you?
But the Christmas spirit is in the air,
We hope the weather will be fair.
We’ve tried hard not to spend too much,
Yet wanted again that festive touch.
We made a list and checked it twice,
Planned everything to turn out nice.
Quiet moments we’ve had so few,
Still here is wishing the best for you.
A potpourri of holiday writing,
Then a fond wish for season’s delighting.
If I could, I would give you the time
and read to you this writing of mine.
Nevertheless, you’re on your own,
Hope you’ll enjoy it when you’re alone.
A meaningful, marvelous celebration so bright,
Remembering God’s gift to us on that long-ago night.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Eddie's Christmas Star
Star
by Elaine Hardt ©1990
Star was born in the imagination of Eddie Anderson on December 11 last year. For Chosen Ones, like Real Ones, birth was just the first step in this stretching-growing adventure we call Life.
If you asked him, Eddie might not be able to recall the exact details. Active minds rarely cling to the past, but always seem to be pressing eagerly towards the dawn of the future -- while celebrating the golden Now with complete exuberance. So those of us who wish to chronicle such events will need to tread backwards briefly to that afternoon on the eleventh of December.
Young Eddie had already finished his math paper and was turning around in his seat to see if Will and Bill had finished theirs. The eagle eye of Mrs. Newman noted half with pride and half aggravation that her first pupil had finished the seat work. All the others seemed bent over in earnest toil, almost interested in accuracy today, she thought. Perhaps it’s only because Christmas is coming.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Restful Prayer Time
What’s bedtime prayer like these days? Is it a list of complaints? A brag-sheet of your own accomplishments of the day? The To Do list you’re sending up to God?
Remember bedtime as a kid, “Rock a Bye, Baby” was mom’s sweet serenade as she held you close, then tucked you into bed with a smile. With only the night light glowing she tip-toed out the door, and you were off to dreamland.
Remember bedtime as a kid, “Rock a Bye, Baby” was mom’s sweet serenade as she held you close, then tucked you into bed with a smile. With only the night light glowing she tip-toed out the door, and you were off to dreamland.
Friday, November 13, 2009
The Sooner, the Better
When God wants to get our attention
The sooner we agree with Him,
The better off we’ll be.
First, come little nudges of conscience,
Little whisperings, little happenings,
Little reminders.
Meanwhile, all around are evidences
Of His awesome, mighty power;
God is Creator.
His Word is there for us to see
Accounts of His dealings with mankind,
Justice and mercy.
The sooner we agree with Him,
The better off we’ll be.
First, come little nudges of conscience,
Little whisperings, little happenings,
Little reminders.
Meanwhile, all around are evidences
Of His awesome, mighty power;
God is Creator.
His Word is there for us to see
Accounts of His dealings with mankind,
Justice and mercy.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Thoughtful Prayer: A New Look
Prayer, what a misunderstood idea. For some people it’s reciting a special poem. For some, it’s a quiet meditation on “nothing.” Take a new look at thoughtful prayer.
Life will never be the same when we learn both child-like faith and the boldness of a spiritual warrior. Confusion is replaced with confidence, loneliness leaves and in comes love. Irritations evaporate, faith grows stronger when we talk to the Lord.
God is real, and so is prayer. Try this Thoughtful Prayer sequence. . .
Life will never be the same when we learn both child-like faith and the boldness of a spiritual warrior. Confusion is replaced with confidence, loneliness leaves and in comes love. Irritations evaporate, faith grows stronger when we talk to the Lord.
God is real, and so is prayer. Try this Thoughtful Prayer sequence. . .
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Recipe for Thanksgiving
This free, no-calorie "recipe" can’t be beat for simplicity and good results. It’s just what every busy person needs, and this means you! Go ahead, indulge yourself. Take a look . . .
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Finding Reasons to be Thankful
Four people in the Bible had challenges, but God gave them reasons to be thankful. We look at Job, Rahab, Abigail, and Zechariah from the Scriptures, then see what we can learn from their example. Finally, we look at a well-known passage from the New Testament, and see if this is a message from God to our own hearts, today.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
BOOKLETS I'VE BEEN WRITING
Besides my published books now I've been writing smaller, self-published booklets. I make them on my computer, using bluesquirrel's program, Click Book. The booklets are FREE. Send me an email to edprpeggy@gmail.com to make your request. Here's the titles updated to June 22, 2021 . . .
Booklet 1: Finding God in Different Places
Booklet 2: Thoughtful People Ask Questions
Booklet 3: Health & Healing
Booklet 4: Discoveries
Booklet 5: Something to Think About
Booklet 6: Why Not ?
Booklet 7: Oh, Joy! A New Look at Life
Booklet 8: Short & Simple: Poetry and Prayers
Booklet 9: A Perfect Gift
Booklet 10: When It Happens
Booklet 11: Grandma Cares !
Booklet 12: Lots of Reasons to be Happy
Booklet 13: Snuggled Up: Conversations with Grandma
Booklet 14: Confidence & Peace of Mind
Booklet 15: Interesting Possibilities
Booklet 16: Love, Comfort, and Hope
Booklet17: Fascinating Journey
Booklet 18: Blessings for You
Booklet 19: Simply Said: Basics
Booklet 20: Your Achievement
Booklet 21: Somebody Cares
Booklet 22: A Path, A Tree
Booklet 23: What’s New
Booklet 24: This is for You !
Booklet 25: Lights, Sun, Moon, Stars
Booklet 26: Meet a Few Friends
Booklet 27: Time to Grow
Booklet 28: Encouraging You
Booklet 29: Heart to Heart
Booklet 30: Celebrating Change, Challenge
Booklet 31: Life’s Trail: Discoveries that made a Difference
Booklet 32: Little Book of Happy Poems
Booklet 33: Friendly Conversation
Booklet 34: A Happy Marriage: Opportunity, Challenge, Blessing
Booklet 35: ABCs for You & Me
Booklet 36: Life's Trail: Part 2, Experiences that call for Faith
Booklet 37: Interesting Improvements
Booklet 38: Boys &; Men: Appreciating Them
Booklet 39: Stepping Stones to Serenity
Booklet 40: Opportunities You've Possibly Overlooked
Booklet 41: It's About Time !
Booklet 42: Cheering You On !
Booklet 43: You Have Some Blessings to Share (Write Them Down)
Booklet 44: Enjoying Your Favorite Seasons of the Year
Booklet 45: The BEST is Yet to Come
Booklet 46: An Attitude of Gratitude: Who, Me ?
Booklet 47: 69 Words of JOY for YOU
Booklet 48: Coffee House Chronicles
Booklet 49: Taking a Closer Look
Booklet 50: Making a Decision: logic, courage, determination
Booklet 51: Open for Opportunity
Booklet 52: What is Faith ?
Booklet 53: Finding HOPE for Today and HOPE for Tomorrow
Booklet 54: A Look at Love
Booklet 55: Coming to Confidence in Life's Challenges
Booklet 56: Exclamations !!!
Booklet 57: Comfort, Confidence, Courage!
Booklet 58: I Will Have a Good Day!
Booklet 59: Greater Things
Booklet 60: Patience: Who, Me ? When ? How ?
Booklet 61: Another Look at Determination
Booklet 62: From Motivation to Celebration !
Booklet 63: MORE Peace of Mind
Booklet 64: Words: Choose 'em, Use 'em
Booklet 65: What Matters
Booklet 66: Yes, I Can !
Booklet 67: WISDOM
Booklet 68: Forgive? Forgiven !!!
Booklet 69: Taking Another Look
Booklet 70: If You Knew How Much God Loves You
Booklet 71: My Completely Wonderful Blessing
Booklet 72: Asking Questions? Finding Answers ?
Booklet 73: Oh, Honestly! Humorous & serious look at prayer
Booklet 74: Consider Your Success
Booklet 75: To Be, or Not To Be -- HAPPY!
Booklet 76: Good For You !
Booklet 77: What a Relief !
Booklet 78: What's Next ?
Booklet 79: Some New Words for Some Old Songs
Booklet 80: Let's Be Practical
Booklet 81: Spring is Here !!!
Booklet 82: Easter Encouragement
Booklet 83: Your Determination, Your Success!
Booklet 84: More to Think About (Good for You)
Booklet 85: Helpful Strategy
Booklet 86: Good Morning
Booklet 87: You Are a Special Person
Booklet 88: One Day Older !!!
Booklet 89: Your Amazing Brain
Booklet 90: Improving Each Day
Booklet 91: Helpful Conversations
Booklet 92: More Encouragement
Booklet 93: Looking at Success
Booklet 94: Getting Better
Booklet 95: Your Bright Ideas
Booklet 96: Thanksgiving 2017
Booklet 97: Here Comes Christmas
Booklet 98: Your Wonderful Future
Booklet 99: One a Day
Booklet 100: AMAZING ! Interesting Ideas for YOU
Booklet 101: Thinking About Today
Booklet 102: A Happy Marriage - Opportunity, Challenge, Blessing
Booklet 103: A Happy Anniversary
Booklet 104: Thinking About Tomorrow
Booklet 105: Another Birthday
Booklet 106: Good-bye, Frustration!
Booklet 107: Hello, Opportunity
Booklet 108: Your Unique Adventure!
Booklet 109: Your Wonderful Possibilities
Booklet 110: Success: Facing the Storms
Booklet 111: A Challenge a Day Keeps Boredom Away
Booklet 112: It IS Time to Smile
Booklet 113: Exercise Your Brain: from A to Z
Booklet 114: Enjoy the Adventure of Life
Booklet 115: Joyful Determination !
Booklet 116: Learning More Life Lessons
Booklet 1: Finding God in Different Places
Booklet 2: Thoughtful People Ask Questions
Booklet 3: Health & Healing
Booklet 4: Discoveries
Booklet 5: Something to Think About
Booklet 6: Why Not ?
Booklet 7: Oh, Joy! A New Look at Life
Booklet 8: Short & Simple: Poetry and Prayers
Booklet 9: A Perfect Gift
Booklet 10: When It Happens
Booklet 11: Grandma Cares !
Booklet 12: Lots of Reasons to be Happy
Booklet 13: Snuggled Up: Conversations with Grandma
Booklet 14: Confidence & Peace of Mind
Booklet 15: Interesting Possibilities
Booklet 16: Love, Comfort, and Hope
Booklet17: Fascinating Journey
Booklet 18: Blessings for You
Booklet 19: Simply Said: Basics
Booklet 20: Your Achievement
Booklet 21: Somebody Cares
Booklet 22: A Path, A Tree
Booklet 23: What’s New
Booklet 24: This is for You !
Booklet 25: Lights, Sun, Moon, Stars
Booklet 26: Meet a Few Friends
Booklet 27: Time to Grow
Booklet 28: Encouraging You
Booklet 29: Heart to Heart
Booklet 30: Celebrating Change, Challenge
Booklet 31: Life’s Trail: Discoveries that made a Difference
Booklet 32: Little Book of Happy Poems
Booklet 33: Friendly Conversation
Booklet 34: A Happy Marriage: Opportunity, Challenge, Blessing
Booklet 35: ABCs for You & Me
Booklet 36: Life's Trail: Part 2, Experiences that call for Faith
Booklet 37: Interesting Improvements
Booklet 38: Boys &; Men: Appreciating Them
Booklet 39: Stepping Stones to Serenity
Booklet 40: Opportunities You've Possibly Overlooked
Booklet 41: It's About Time !
Booklet 42: Cheering You On !
Booklet 43: You Have Some Blessings to Share (Write Them Down)
Booklet 44: Enjoying Your Favorite Seasons of the Year
Booklet 45: The BEST is Yet to Come
Booklet 46: An Attitude of Gratitude: Who, Me ?
Booklet 47: 69 Words of JOY for YOU
Booklet 48: Coffee House Chronicles
Booklet 49: Taking a Closer Look
Booklet 50: Making a Decision: logic, courage, determination
Booklet 51: Open for Opportunity
Booklet 52: What is Faith ?
Booklet 53: Finding HOPE for Today and HOPE for Tomorrow
Booklet 54: A Look at Love
Booklet 55: Coming to Confidence in Life's Challenges
Booklet 56: Exclamations !!!
Booklet 57: Comfort, Confidence, Courage!
Booklet 58: I Will Have a Good Day!
Booklet 59: Greater Things
Booklet 60: Patience: Who, Me ? When ? How ?
Booklet 61: Another Look at Determination
Booklet 62: From Motivation to Celebration !
Booklet 63: MORE Peace of Mind
Booklet 64: Words: Choose 'em, Use 'em
Booklet 65: What Matters
Booklet 66: Yes, I Can !
Booklet 67: WISDOM
Booklet 68: Forgive? Forgiven !!!
Booklet 69: Taking Another Look
Booklet 70: If You Knew How Much God Loves You
Booklet 71: My Completely Wonderful Blessing
Booklet 72: Asking Questions? Finding Answers ?
Booklet 73: Oh, Honestly! Humorous & serious look at prayer
Booklet 74: Consider Your Success
Booklet 75: To Be, or Not To Be -- HAPPY!
Booklet 76: Good For You !
Booklet 77: What a Relief !
Booklet 78: What's Next ?
Booklet 79: Some New Words for Some Old Songs
Booklet 80: Let's Be Practical
Booklet 81: Spring is Here !!!
Booklet 82: Easter Encouragement
Booklet 83: Your Determination, Your Success!
Booklet 84: More to Think About (Good for You)
Booklet 85: Helpful Strategy
Booklet 86: Good Morning
Booklet 87: You Are a Special Person
Booklet 88: One Day Older !!!
Booklet 89: Your Amazing Brain
Booklet 90: Improving Each Day
Booklet 91: Helpful Conversations
Booklet 92: More Encouragement
Booklet 93: Looking at Success
Booklet 94: Getting Better
Booklet 95: Your Bright Ideas
Booklet 96: Thanksgiving 2017
Booklet 97: Here Comes Christmas
Booklet 98: Your Wonderful Future
Booklet 99: One a Day
Booklet 100: AMAZING ! Interesting Ideas for YOU
Booklet 101: Thinking About Today
Booklet 102: A Happy Marriage - Opportunity, Challenge, Blessing
Booklet 103: A Happy Anniversary
Booklet 104: Thinking About Tomorrow
Booklet 105: Another Birthday
Booklet 106: Good-bye, Frustration!
Booklet 107: Hello, Opportunity
Booklet 108: Your Unique Adventure!
Booklet 109: Your Wonderful Possibilities
Booklet 110: Success: Facing the Storms
Booklet 111: A Challenge a Day Keeps Boredom Away
Booklet 112: It IS Time to Smile
Booklet 113: Exercise Your Brain: from A to Z
Booklet 114: Enjoy the Adventure of Life
Booklet 115: Joyful Determination !
Booklet 116: Learning More Life Lessons
Booklet 117: You CAN Do It
Booklet 118: What's Up? Where Are You Going?
Booklet 119: Improving....More and More and More !
Booklet 120: What's Next ?
Booklet 121: From Frowns to Smiles
Booklet 122: Improving & Having Fun
Booklet 123: HAPPPY ! Know It ? Show It !
Booklet 124: A New View of Life
Booklet 125: Ideas for Improvement
Booklet 126 Smile on your way Today
Booklet 127 Another Day, Challenge, Opportunity
What's Going Wrong?
As advanced as technology has become,
as intellectual as many people have become,
as aware of the world as many of us are. . .
Yet the world is in terrible shape right now.
We must ask, What is happening? Why in the world is all this happening? What in the world can I do about it?
I must have answers for myself, for my own sanity and survival. And I care about my family and friends. To some degree, I care about strangers, people all around the world.
So, here’s the start of a list of “what is happening.”
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Time to Thank Someone
It’s time to acknowledge those who have encouraged, inspired, and helped us. October is Christian Leadership Recognition Month, but this does not mean we must wait until an annual, official commendation.
Looking for a person to tell, “Thanks!” is a good exercise for our brains. Writing a personalized acknowledgement is a good exercise for our hearts.
Here's a Bible verse we included in an earlier letter of “Thanks!”
Last week my friend, Jann, wanted to convey special appreciation to a group of people at her church. Here is what I sent her:
We Value Our Volunteers
Adaptable workers,
Generous and kind,
Focused on quality,
Helping on their mind.
Ideas to suggest,
Their talent to share,
Some time to give;
People who care!
Doers with kindness,
Learners with a smile,
Filling a need,
Thoughtful all the while.
Available participants
Spreading good cheer;
We need volunteers
And we’re glad they’re here.
Who has done something meaningful for you? A word of appreciation is a blessing you can bestow.
Looking for a person to tell, “Thanks!” is a good exercise for our brains. Writing a personalized acknowledgement is a good exercise for our hearts.
One year we sent this photo of Glacier lakes by Peter Hardt ©2007.
(Double click to enlarge.)
(Double click to enlarge.)
Here's a Bible verse we included in an earlier letter of “Thanks!”
“We give thanks to God always
for you making mention of you
in our prayers,
remembering without ceasing
your work of faith,
labor of love,
and patience of hope
in our Lord Jesus Christ
in the sight of our God and Father,” 1 Thessalonians 1:2, 3
Last week my friend, Jann, wanted to convey special appreciation to a group of people at her church. Here is what I sent her:
We Value Our Volunteers
Adaptable workers,
Generous and kind,
Focused on quality,
Helping on their mind.
Ideas to suggest,
Their talent to share,
Some time to give;
People who care!
Doers with kindness,
Learners with a smile,
Filling a need,
Thoughtful all the while.
Available participants
Spreading good cheer;
We need volunteers
And we’re glad they’re here.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Who has done something meaningful for you? A word of appreciation is a blessing you can bestow.
Monday, October 05, 2009
Discouragement in Late Afternoon
Sandy crevices claim the feeble stream,
Evaporation disentangles the remaining liquid;
A scarcely caring person ponders the scene,
An empty view.
Unsettled questions gnaw the soul,
Stifling contradictions blanket the mind;
No spark of effort stirs the body,
Words fail to flow.
Where is hope, where are possibilities?
Don’t let this happen to you, I beg;
Take a deeper breath of faith,
Consider God’s provision.
Don’t disregard the slight hints of beauty
The coming night sky will again display;
You are part of His universe,
And He still calls to you.
By Elaine Hardt ©2007
Photo by Peter Hardt ©2004
Saturday, October 03, 2009
The Lesson of the Duct Tape
Pay attention to Duct Tape.
Apply yourself to the job.
Stick to doing your job well.
Don’t be overly concerned about how it looks to others.
Set an example of living up to your potential.
You were made by Someone greater than you.
Your Maker knows what’s best.
Duct Tape isn’t perfect, doesn’t brag or show off.
You, on the other hand, are put in a position to learn and grow.
You can speak to your Maker, and
You can speak out about your Maker.
You can trust in Him and be thankful to Him.
Someday you will be perfect in a new body
In a wonderful New Place!
Your Maker is exceedingly wise
And powerful beyond what we can comprehend.
He has a tremendous plan for Everything!
You, being imperfect, need to acknowledge that,
And receive His way of life.
The Bible is the Book of Directions;
Be glad to do life His way.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
God wants YOU to be like duct tape.
“… hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast.” Hebrews 3:6
“…hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.” Hebrews 3:14
“…hold firmly to the faith we profess.” Hebrews 4:14
“…hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Autumn Means, "Prepare for Winter"!
Autumn brings respite from the summer’s heat,
Unexpected drought finally relieved by rain;
Now autumn signals time for preparation,
Winter storms will challenge survival again.
Anticipate hard times in case they come,
Set aside supplies from fields and store;
Wishful thinking is not the same as work,
Planning and doing are certainly called for.
Perhaps you’ll be needed to help someone,
Your example today might inspire;
Count your blessings while you get busy,
Remember to lift your goals higher.
Enjoy autumn scenery while you can,
Winter will soon assault that grassy sod;
Make gratitude your on-going attitude,
Appreciate wisdom given by God.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
photo by Carlene Hardt ©2006
Monday, September 21, 2009
The Weeds' Revenge
Little green leaves and tiny colored flowers tried to masquerade their true identity. But the seeds that were awakened by last week’s showers were not welcome in the desert-landscaped lawn. The intruders were weeds.
A few days later, armed with a long-handled weed-stabbing tool I donned my gardening gloves and marched outside with a plastic bucket. By the early morning shade I vigorously attacked the invaders. Some of them had roots like miniature carrots.
Earlier, looking out the front room window I estimated that there were only about 15 - 20 weeds, and I’d be done in mere minutes. However, upon closer scrutiny there were more than that. Some had cleverly disguised themselves to blend in with the gray and blue colored gravel.
Nearly an hour later I carried a full bucket of weeds to the garbage can. A change of clothes and soon I was on my way to meet some friends at the coffee house.
By bedtime muscles in my back and legs were starting to complain. Midnight found me wide awake, reaching for some liniment I found in the bathroom cabinet. It didn’t help.
The next day by 8 a.m. I was phoning the chiropractor. Owwww. Even my left thumb hurt. The weeds had their revenge.
Does this hold true in other areas of life? Miscalculating how much time and energy a task will take, that’s one thing. Not expecting a backlash of pain or other trouble, that’s another possibility to take into consideration.
Parents try to teach children to think a matter through, to anticipate possible effects, to avoid careless or harmful outcomes. And, from our years of experience we may have learned to make reasonable choices. But there’s always room for improvement, or so it seems.
Looking back just on the last dozen years in our own nation there has been an increasing flood of “bad,” masquerading as “normal” and “acceptable” and “tolerant.” Growing up with TV and movies the younger generation has not had many examples of making good choices.
Consider Lot
Did Lot intend to make a real mess of his life, and the lives of his wife and children? Or did he just gradually see a different viewpoint that accepted more and more sinful behavior? He probably had a house in a nice section of town, had friends, a good income, maybe knew some of the town’s leading citizens. But little by little the behavior of the majority affected Lot’s family.
In Genesis 13 it says that Lot as he moved about with Abram had flocks and herds and tents. When given a choice Lot moved and pitched his tents near Sodom. In Genesis 14 Lot was living in Sodom. By Genesis 19 the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah was so bad that the Lord was going to destroy those evil people. Two angels urged Lot to leave before the city’s punishment.
Lot did escape in time, but without his wife, without his riches. A life of comfort had eluded him. The possibility of leaving a legacy of faith and obedience to God had been shattered.
Lot did not identify the small warnings, and later did not react to the bigger warnings. In Luke 17 Jesus reminded his listeners about Lot and the results of his careless life. In 2 Peter 2:7 Lot was called a “righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men,” but he could have done better.
When we make a good effort to tidy up our lives and remove the weeds, consider the real possibility that the weeds can affect us even after we think they’re eradicated. We need the wisdom and empowerment of God’s Holy Spirit to deal with sin. Carelessness will affect us, our families, and our testimony to others. God will help us do what pleases Him, and that will be very good. # # #
Earlier, looking out the front room window I estimated that there were only about 15 - 20 weeds, and I’d be done in mere minutes. However, upon closer scrutiny there were more than that. Some had cleverly disguised themselves to blend in with the gray and blue colored gravel.
Nearly an hour later I carried a full bucket of weeds to the garbage can. A change of clothes and soon I was on my way to meet some friends at the coffee house.
By bedtime muscles in my back and legs were starting to complain. Midnight found me wide awake, reaching for some liniment I found in the bathroom cabinet. It didn’t help.
The next day by 8 a.m. I was phoning the chiropractor. Owwww. Even my left thumb hurt. The weeds had their revenge.
Does this hold true in other areas of life? Miscalculating how much time and energy a task will take, that’s one thing. Not expecting a backlash of pain or other trouble, that’s another possibility to take into consideration.
Parents try to teach children to think a matter through, to anticipate possible effects, to avoid careless or harmful outcomes. And, from our years of experience we may have learned to make reasonable choices. But there’s always room for improvement, or so it seems.
Looking back just on the last dozen years in our own nation there has been an increasing flood of “bad,” masquerading as “normal” and “acceptable” and “tolerant.” Growing up with TV and movies the younger generation has not had many examples of making good choices.
Consider Lot
Did Lot intend to make a real mess of his life, and the lives of his wife and children? Or did he just gradually see a different viewpoint that accepted more and more sinful behavior? He probably had a house in a nice section of town, had friends, a good income, maybe knew some of the town’s leading citizens. But little by little the behavior of the majority affected Lot’s family.
In Genesis 13 it says that Lot as he moved about with Abram had flocks and herds and tents. When given a choice Lot moved and pitched his tents near Sodom. In Genesis 14 Lot was living in Sodom. By Genesis 19 the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah was so bad that the Lord was going to destroy those evil people. Two angels urged Lot to leave before the city’s punishment.
Lot did escape in time, but without his wife, without his riches. A life of comfort had eluded him. The possibility of leaving a legacy of faith and obedience to God had been shattered.
Lot did not identify the small warnings, and later did not react to the bigger warnings. In Luke 17 Jesus reminded his listeners about Lot and the results of his careless life. In 2 Peter 2:7 Lot was called a “righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men,” but he could have done better.
When we make a good effort to tidy up our lives and remove the weeds, consider the real possibility that the weeds can affect us even after we think they’re eradicated. We need the wisdom and empowerment of God’s Holy Spirit to deal with sin. Carelessness will affect us, our families, and our testimony to others. God will help us do what pleases Him, and that will be very good. # # #
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
The Five Seasons of Prayer
WINTER
Winter is the season of struggle.
The world holds each one captive; the spirit is not yet set free.
The Winter Heart battles to survive in a cold environment.
The soul is weary, blown about with questions and confusions.
Prayer in this season of life may reflect sincere wishful thinking
or a formal, religious ritual.
SPRING
Spring is the season of new beginnings.
Choosing to become Born Anew, the Spring Heart settles down in peacefulness.
Warming to the Son, the first sprouts of Holy Spirit fruit begin to grow.
Trust is deepening; new discoveries of life are made.
Although certain pests try to devour or spoil the seedlings, there are strategies to use.
Prayer enjoys the new freedom of conversation with the Lord.
SUMMER
Summer is the season of ripening fruits.
The Summer Heart is secure in being, and grows more honest and open.
Full of God’s Holy Spirit, constantly abiding in Him,
there is determination in times of dryness to see it through.
There’s appreciation for the rain (reign) of Christ.
Now, pests attack areas that are stressed and vulnerable,
and the plants must yield as pruning takes place.
Prayer has become a lifestyle; it is on-going, free-flowing.
AUTUMN
Autumn is the season of maturity and harvest.
The Autumn Heart is cooperating with God for a great harvest.
There’s gladness in generously providing for others.
Stronger immunity has been built up by faith and obedience,
so pests find it harder to cause trouble.
Prayer has grown confident and bold.
THE HOLIDAY SEASON
In the awesome plan of God comes the Grand Finale,
the unending season of rejoicing.
Culminating a life of believing and trusting, growing and obeying
the spirit rises to His Presence
to enjoy His grace and goodness, there to dwell forever.
Prayer now sees, face to face, the Lord of Glory!
By Elaine Hardt ©2002
Winter is the season of struggle.
The world holds each one captive; the spirit is not yet set free.
The Winter Heart battles to survive in a cold environment.
The soul is weary, blown about with questions and confusions.
Prayer in this season of life may reflect sincere wishful thinking
or a formal, religious ritual.
SPRING
Spring is the season of new beginnings.
Choosing to become Born Anew, the Spring Heart settles down in peacefulness.
Warming to the Son, the first sprouts of Holy Spirit fruit begin to grow.
Trust is deepening; new discoveries of life are made.
Although certain pests try to devour or spoil the seedlings, there are strategies to use.
Prayer enjoys the new freedom of conversation with the Lord.
SUMMER
Summer is the season of ripening fruits.
The Summer Heart is secure in being, and grows more honest and open.
Full of God’s Holy Spirit, constantly abiding in Him,
there is determination in times of dryness to see it through.
There’s appreciation for the rain (reign) of Christ.
Now, pests attack areas that are stressed and vulnerable,
and the plants must yield as pruning takes place.
Prayer has become a lifestyle; it is on-going, free-flowing.
AUTUMN
Autumn is the season of maturity and harvest.
The Autumn Heart is cooperating with God for a great harvest.
There’s gladness in generously providing for others.
Stronger immunity has been built up by faith and obedience,
so pests find it harder to cause trouble.
Prayer has grown confident and bold.
THE HOLIDAY SEASON
In the awesome plan of God comes the Grand Finale,
the unending season of rejoicing.
Culminating a life of believing and trusting, growing and obeying
the spirit rises to His Presence
to enjoy His grace and goodness, there to dwell forever.
Prayer now sees, face to face, the Lord of Glory!
By Elaine Hardt ©2002
Saturday, September 19, 2009
The Pebble in the Pond
I threw a pebble in the pond,
it sank to watery depths below;
But the ripples it made spread far and wide,
beyond the place where I could throw.
I carelessly spoke to someone
and later never could retrieve a word;
far-reaching was the influence
from the sentences she heard.
Now I want to give God's love away,
spread circles of blessings throughout the day,
aware of my pebble and the pond
and widening ripples from what I say.
by Elaine Hardt ©1993
it sank to watery depths below;
But the ripples it made spread far and wide,
beyond the place where I could throw.
I carelessly spoke to someone
and later never could retrieve a word;
far-reaching was the influence
from the sentences she heard.
Now I want to give God's love away,
spread circles of blessings throughout the day,
aware of my pebble and the pond
and widening ripples from what I say.
by Elaine Hardt ©1993
Friday, September 11, 2009
The Most Helpful Question to Ask Yourself
Wake up in the morning — look at the clock;
Yes, it is a new day!
Scan the calendar’s list of Things To Do,
And then what will you say?
“What can I learn from this?”
Whether the day brings
Simple salutations
or unacceptable aggravations,
Nagging necessities
or pertinent possibilities,
Maybe glad tidings of great joy
or some puzzle that may annoy,
Unexpected complications,
or endearing inspirations,
Ask yourself this question
Whenever you can,
“What can I learn from THIS?”
It’s a most helpful plan.
You are quite a capable thinker
And you know quite a lot;
Thank God for each one of your blessings
And everything you’ve got.
Face your day with confidence
And try not to complain;
To benefit from each situation,
Ask yourself the question again.
“What can I learn from THIS?”
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Yes, it is a new day!
Scan the calendar’s list of Things To Do,
And then what will you say?
“What can I learn from this?”
Whether the day brings
Simple salutations
or unacceptable aggravations,
Nagging necessities
or pertinent possibilities,
Maybe glad tidings of great joy
or some puzzle that may annoy,
Unexpected complications,
or endearing inspirations,
Ask yourself this question
Whenever you can,
“What can I learn from THIS?”
It’s a most helpful plan.
You are quite a capable thinker
And you know quite a lot;
Thank God for each one of your blessings
And everything you’ve got.
Face your day with confidence
And try not to complain;
To benefit from each situation,
Ask yourself the question again.
“What can I learn from THIS?”
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
How Much Shall I Worry?
Cookie is concerned; she’s written to her list of friends saying, “No more negative emails. I refuse to drown under this political stuff.” Now Cookie has fewer email forwards to read. So far, at least, she’s grateful to be just “left alone.”
At the Wednesday Friendship Group at church the majority of people effectively cut off any discussion that ties current events with Bible prophecy or even Jesus’ teaching about troubles coming at the “end of the age.” If there would have been any concerns or questions they didn’t see the light of day. Is it apathy, carelessness, or acceptable?
Curtis wants to keep informed. He probably spends too much time researching news sites on the Internet. He listens to the a.m. news radio program and sits through an hour and a half of evening news on the TV. There’s no smile on his face these days. Friends are quick to change the subject when he joins them at the coffee house.
What’s a normal Christian supposed to do? Is it one extreme or the other? Is there a middle-ground that would be mentally healthy and spiritually adequate?
If Cookie doesn’t listen to anything she is short-changing herself. Her prayer life will omit vital requests for her own spiritual growth and protection. She won’t recognize God’s hand of provision in this area of life.
If Curtis doesn’t realize that God has something for him to learn about prayer and trust he’s going to miss wonderful peace of mind. Blessings and miracles, large and small, completely escape his notice.
Our responsibility is to show respect to our Maker. He didn’t put each of us here at this time and place just so we will be ignorant and disobedient. He didn’t send Jesus, His only Son to Earth just so people would have a controversy to keep theologians and atheists occupied.
There’s time for trivia; how about some time to read the Gospels of the New Testament. What was important to Jesus? What did he emphasize? Were his teachings just cute little stories?
What did those early believers do? Did they wring their hands over the political problems? Did they hide out at home? Did they speak up to unbelievers?
How much shall I worry? There’s plenty to worry about: globalization would take away individual rights and freedoms, universal health care is very complicated — how much power do we want the government to have? On and on…..
Three words give us a direction: pray, plan, prepare.
Prayer is not mumbling a written poem, it’s actual communication with the Lord Himself. Acknowledging His love, His power, then we realize that His reproof is meant to bring us to repentance and rebirth.
Planning involves gaining information. What assets do we already have in place? What do we need to do? What do we need to learn how to do?
Preparing means being able to provide for our own families. Government handouts will not cover the needs of everybody, everywhere. Preparing means getting ready, spiritually, emotionally, and all those other aspects of living. Be practical and prudent.
Both Cookie and Curtis can pray and plan and prepare with God’s help.
Let’s pray for wisdom and direction, ”Show us what to do.” Let’s ask for physical strength, and add, “Show us, Lord, how to cooperate with the health and healing You’re giving us.” Then pray about others. “Show us what to say, who to say it to, when to say it.”
God wants to bless each of us!
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
At the Wednesday Friendship Group at church the majority of people effectively cut off any discussion that ties current events with Bible prophecy or even Jesus’ teaching about troubles coming at the “end of the age.” If there would have been any concerns or questions they didn’t see the light of day. Is it apathy, carelessness, or acceptable?
Curtis wants to keep informed. He probably spends too much time researching news sites on the Internet. He listens to the a.m. news radio program and sits through an hour and a half of evening news on the TV. There’s no smile on his face these days. Friends are quick to change the subject when he joins them at the coffee house.
What’s a normal Christian supposed to do? Is it one extreme or the other? Is there a middle-ground that would be mentally healthy and spiritually adequate?
If Cookie doesn’t listen to anything she is short-changing herself. Her prayer life will omit vital requests for her own spiritual growth and protection. She won’t recognize God’s hand of provision in this area of life.
If Curtis doesn’t realize that God has something for him to learn about prayer and trust he’s going to miss wonderful peace of mind. Blessings and miracles, large and small, completely escape his notice.
Our responsibility is to show respect to our Maker. He didn’t put each of us here at this time and place just so we will be ignorant and disobedient. He didn’t send Jesus, His only Son to Earth just so people would have a controversy to keep theologians and atheists occupied.
There’s time for trivia; how about some time to read the Gospels of the New Testament. What was important to Jesus? What did he emphasize? Were his teachings just cute little stories?
What did those early believers do? Did they wring their hands over the political problems? Did they hide out at home? Did they speak up to unbelievers?
How much shall I worry? There’s plenty to worry about: globalization would take away individual rights and freedoms, universal health care is very complicated — how much power do we want the government to have? On and on…..
Three words give us a direction: pray, plan, prepare.
Prayer is not mumbling a written poem, it’s actual communication with the Lord Himself. Acknowledging His love, His power, then we realize that His reproof is meant to bring us to repentance and rebirth.
Planning involves gaining information. What assets do we already have in place? What do we need to do? What do we need to learn how to do?
Preparing means being able to provide for our own families. Government handouts will not cover the needs of everybody, everywhere. Preparing means getting ready, spiritually, emotionally, and all those other aspects of living. Be practical and prudent.
Both Cookie and Curtis can pray and plan and prepare with God’s help.
Let’s pray for wisdom and direction, ”Show us what to do.” Let’s ask for physical strength, and add, “Show us, Lord, how to cooperate with the health and healing You’re giving us.” Then pray about others. “Show us what to say, who to say it to, when to say it.”
God wants to bless each of us!
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
A Serious Search: Is It True?
Don’t gimme that old time religion,
Don’t brag on something new;
I don’t care who recommends it,
I only care if it is true.
I appreciate your suggestion,
But there’s a lot at stake;
I’ve got to take a careful look,
It’s life and death, for goodness’ sake.
History is full of beliefs and creeds,
Stories and theories abound;
I need something provable,
More than wishful thinking that’s written down.
I’ve found weakness in evolution,
And beliefs with inconsistency;
If God has a plan for life and death
It’s got to make sense to me.
A serious quest, determined and deep!
My solemn, yet joyous conclusion:
Jesus is the only Savior
If you seek Truth, not delusion.
Nowhere else is there a strict, yet loving
All powerful deity;
The Bible withstands strong examination,
To all who demand reality.
Of course, life has sin and consequences
Affecting the human race,
But God’s forgiveness is outlined in love;
Repentance reveals His amazing grace.
A serious search with urgency
Can reveal what is true;
Give it sincere attention
If seeking truth is important to you.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Don’t brag on something new;
I don’t care who recommends it,
I only care if it is true.
I appreciate your suggestion,
But there’s a lot at stake;
I’ve got to take a careful look,
It’s life and death, for goodness’ sake.
History is full of beliefs and creeds,
Stories and theories abound;
I need something provable,
More than wishful thinking that’s written down.
I’ve found weakness in evolution,
And beliefs with inconsistency;
If God has a plan for life and death
It’s got to make sense to me.
A serious quest, determined and deep!
My solemn, yet joyous conclusion:
Jesus is the only Savior
If you seek Truth, not delusion.
Nowhere else is there a strict, yet loving
All powerful deity;
The Bible withstands strong examination,
To all who demand reality.
Of course, life has sin and consequences
Affecting the human race,
But God’s forgiveness is outlined in love;
Repentance reveals His amazing grace.
A serious search with urgency
Can reveal what is true;
Give it sincere attention
If seeking truth is important to you.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Eleven Wonderful Prayers
Do YOU pray? Do you ever wonder what to say when you pray?
Down through thousands of years of recorded history
people have prayed in some way or another.
Today many people in the world pray at one time or another.
Some pray to idols, statues, or philosophical ideas.
Others quite confidently pray to the Maker of the Universe,
certain they are being heard,
and positive that God will bless them for praying.
Of the many prayers mentioned in the Old and New Testament,
the Bible records eleven prayers that are quite wonderful.
They reveal truth about the God we pray to,
truth about our human condition,
truth about what our expectations can bring.
by Moses . . . . . . . . . . . .Numbers 14:17-19
by David . . . . . . . . . . . . Psalm 51
by Solomon . . . . . . . . . .2 Chronicles 6:12-42
by Isaiah . . . . . . . . . . . . Isaiah 6
by Hezekiah. . . . . . . . . .2 Kings 19:14-19
by Jeremiah. . . . . . . . . .Jeremiah 1:4-10
by Habakkuk . . . . . . . . .Habakkuk 3
by Daniel . . . . . . . . . . . . Daniel 9
by Jesus . . . . . . . . . . . . . John 17
by Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ephesians 1:15-21
for you . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hebrews 13:20, 21
Yes, it will take a few minutes for you to look for these in the Bible,
but learning is what you sincerely want to do. Do this soon.
Here's one way to look up Bible verses, http://www.biblegateway.com/
Down through thousands of years of recorded history
people have prayed in some way or another.
Today many people in the world pray at one time or another.
Some pray to idols, statues, or philosophical ideas.
Others quite confidently pray to the Maker of the Universe,
certain they are being heard,
and positive that God will bless them for praying.
Of the many prayers mentioned in the Old and New Testament,
the Bible records eleven prayers that are quite wonderful.
They reveal truth about the God we pray to,
truth about our human condition,
truth about what our expectations can bring.
by Moses . . . . . . . . . . . .Numbers 14:17-19
by David . . . . . . . . . . . . Psalm 51
by Solomon . . . . . . . . . .2 Chronicles 6:12-42
by Isaiah . . . . . . . . . . . . Isaiah 6
by Hezekiah. . . . . . . . . .2 Kings 19:14-19
by Jeremiah. . . . . . . . . .Jeremiah 1:4-10
by Habakkuk . . . . . . . . .Habakkuk 3
by Daniel . . . . . . . . . . . . Daniel 9
by Jesus . . . . . . . . . . . . . John 17
by Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ephesians 1:15-21
for you . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hebrews 13:20, 21
Yes, it will take a few minutes for you to look for these in the Bible,
but learning is what you sincerely want to do. Do this soon.
Here's one way to look up Bible verses, http://www.biblegateway.com/
Prayer is powerful, when you do it the right way.
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
Monday, August 10, 2009
Heed the Labels
Two hours in the shuttle van, if there’s no slowdown on the Interstate to Sky Harbor. So far I was the only passenger, and that suited me fine; it was going to be a very busy day.
About twenty minutes later the driver was pulling into a convenience store parking lot in Spring Valley. The new passenger looked to be thirty, but it was his T-shirt that caught my attention, a picture of a bronze Buddha sat encircled with big green leaves. He slid in across from me and nodded a hello.
I turned from the window to face the newcomer and smiled. I was wearing a sky-blue T-shirt with a rainbow arched over fluffy clouds. Pink letters proclaim: “Heaven, don’t miss it.”
His curt, “You must be a Christian,” comment sounded a little too sharp, but this was the opening I wanted. My reply was a sweet, “Your god doesn’t love you.”
“I don’t have a god, I don’t need a god. I’m a free-thinker and proud of it.”
“Well, see if I’ve got this right. You don’t believe that any all-wise Creator made the cosmos, millions of universes, et cetera, that is if we’re open-minded enough to look out at the night sky,” and I went on to say, “I have a MA in Education from ASU. How about you?”
“BA in Business, if that is germane to this conversation.” Then he added with a smile, “Gerald Setter here, your captive audience all the way to the airport.”
“I’m Shelly Wilson, and thanks for the invitation. Nothing like a stimulating game of verbal ping-pong.”
“Love,” he mused, “everyone’s got an opinion.”
In a kindly tone I repeated, “Your god doesn’t love you. What a loss. Well, actually, I’m happy to inform you that my God does love you.”
“Ha!” he interjected, “your god doesn’t even know me. Maybe I’m a jerk, or worse.”
“Good news from the one and only Bible, God knows all about you and He loves you.”
“You Christians,” he sighed, “all tied up in denominations that argue with each other, and big-name leaders with big egos. How is a poor college-educated atheist to find out which dogma to believe?”
“Good point, Gerald. None of those busy-body denominations or holier-than-thou speakers are mentioned by name in the Bible. Anyone can just go straight to the Bible for themselves and see what God wants us to know.”
“And?”
“Astronomy, archaeology, chemistry, you name it. People smarter than you and I have looked into the veracity of the Bible. It’s not politically correct for some of them to speak out. But someone like me, normal and ordinary, can see the logic of believing in one God, Creator of Everything.”
With no retort from him I marched right on with my points. “Mankind goofs off and disobeys the one and only test of obedience God gave in the beginning. To show the seriousness of that disobedience there’s a penalty. A death penalty. But with unimaginable love God sends Jesus, His only Son to pay that death penalty. Jesus was that perfect sacrifice. Now, to escape the penalty each individual needs only to own up to his/her sins and ask to claim that forgiveness.”
Now, silence was welcome. Time and prayer was on my side. Actually the man had been labeled for prayer by his T-shirt.
We exchanged some thoughtful conversation, and I’m trusting God to continue to speak to him.
You’ve seen them, too. People wearing provocative T-shirts, people adorned with colorful ink on their bodies, men and women who just “look different” from the rest of us.
Just last week my friend Ada mentioned a woman visiting at church who raised her eyebrows in a “look at this” gesture when a young tattooed biker walked up front to play a song on his guitar. That woman also showed her need for your prayer.
What to do — ignore or insult them? There is a better way. Consider that they are labeled for prayer. For some reason they came within your view, and the Lord had you notice them. You can ask the Lord to bless them, fill them with His love, show them the answers they need to find, bring other caring Christians into their lives.
Heed those labels. Make the most of the opportunity God is giving you. # # #
About twenty minutes later the driver was pulling into a convenience store parking lot in Spring Valley. The new passenger looked to be thirty, but it was his T-shirt that caught my attention, a picture of a bronze Buddha sat encircled with big green leaves. He slid in across from me and nodded a hello.
I turned from the window to face the newcomer and smiled. I was wearing a sky-blue T-shirt with a rainbow arched over fluffy clouds. Pink letters proclaim: “Heaven, don’t miss it.”
His curt, “You must be a Christian,” comment sounded a little too sharp, but this was the opening I wanted. My reply was a sweet, “Your god doesn’t love you.”
“I don’t have a god, I don’t need a god. I’m a free-thinker and proud of it.”
“Well, see if I’ve got this right. You don’t believe that any all-wise Creator made the cosmos, millions of universes, et cetera, that is if we’re open-minded enough to look out at the night sky,” and I went on to say, “I have a MA in Education from ASU. How about you?”
“BA in Business, if that is germane to this conversation.” Then he added with a smile, “Gerald Setter here, your captive audience all the way to the airport.”
“I’m Shelly Wilson, and thanks for the invitation. Nothing like a stimulating game of verbal ping-pong.”
“Love,” he mused, “everyone’s got an opinion.”
In a kindly tone I repeated, “Your god doesn’t love you. What a loss. Well, actually, I’m happy to inform you that my God does love you.”
“Ha!” he interjected, “your god doesn’t even know me. Maybe I’m a jerk, or worse.”
“Good news from the one and only Bible, God knows all about you and He loves you.”
“You Christians,” he sighed, “all tied up in denominations that argue with each other, and big-name leaders with big egos. How is a poor college-educated atheist to find out which dogma to believe?”
“Good point, Gerald. None of those busy-body denominations or holier-than-thou speakers are mentioned by name in the Bible. Anyone can just go straight to the Bible for themselves and see what God wants us to know.”
“And?”
“Astronomy, archaeology, chemistry, you name it. People smarter than you and I have looked into the veracity of the Bible. It’s not politically correct for some of them to speak out. But someone like me, normal and ordinary, can see the logic of believing in one God, Creator of Everything.”
With no retort from him I marched right on with my points. “Mankind goofs off and disobeys the one and only test of obedience God gave in the beginning. To show the seriousness of that disobedience there’s a penalty. A death penalty. But with unimaginable love God sends Jesus, His only Son to pay that death penalty. Jesus was that perfect sacrifice. Now, to escape the penalty each individual needs only to own up to his/her sins and ask to claim that forgiveness.”
Now, silence was welcome. Time and prayer was on my side. Actually the man had been labeled for prayer by his T-shirt.
We exchanged some thoughtful conversation, and I’m trusting God to continue to speak to him.
You’ve seen them, too. People wearing provocative T-shirts, people adorned with colorful ink on their bodies, men and women who just “look different” from the rest of us.
Just last week my friend Ada mentioned a woman visiting at church who raised her eyebrows in a “look at this” gesture when a young tattooed biker walked up front to play a song on his guitar. That woman also showed her need for your prayer.
What to do — ignore or insult them? There is a better way. Consider that they are labeled for prayer. For some reason they came within your view, and the Lord had you notice them. You can ask the Lord to bless them, fill them with His love, show them the answers they need to find, bring other caring Christians into their lives.
Heed those labels. Make the most of the opportunity God is giving you. # # #
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
Looking For . . .
Today I'm adding 1,070 more to the total of published pieces. After doing an Internet search via Google all this time I looked at other search engines: Yahoo, Bing, AltaVista, Lycos, Clusty and Teoma. Such a variety of my writings appear on these smaller, less-known sites. Now, I've added to this search by going to Books.Google and Google Blogs, finding 70 additional places where my writing is posted and can be accessed.
If you do a web search for my name be sure you've set your preferences to avoid the bad ones, which remind us that evil exists in the world, and there is ungodly opposition to every believer. As with other objectionable things this reminds us that these people are labeled for prayer.
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Two Sides of Remembering
Remembering can make you happy,
Remembering can make you sad;
It all depends upon
The kind of life you’ve had.
Some things are best written down
So they don’t get lost in your head;
Other things you’ve already dealt with,
Considered what you’ve done and said.
Remembering can be good for you
When you talk to the Lord in prayer;
Both honesty and thankfulness
Show that you truly care.
Remembering can make you sparkle,
Remembering can make you blue;
You’re in charge of your feelings,
The choice is up to you.
Make good memories while you can,
Days of life can’t be undone;
Appreciate opportunity
To remember love, joy, hope, and fun!
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Remembering can make you sad;
It all depends upon
The kind of life you’ve had.
Some things are best written down
So they don’t get lost in your head;
Other things you’ve already dealt with,
Considered what you’ve done and said.
Remembering can be good for you
When you talk to the Lord in prayer;
Both honesty and thankfulness
Show that you truly care.
Remembering can make you sparkle,
Remembering can make you blue;
You’re in charge of your feelings,
The choice is up to you.
Make good memories while you can,
Days of life can’t be undone;
Appreciate opportunity
To remember love, joy, hope, and fun!
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Go From Discouragement to Confidence and Courage!
Yes, you are being tested, and it doesn’t seem fair!
Purpose in your heart to stand strong ,
Develop a closer relationship with the Lord in prayer,
Read His Word, asking His Holy Spirit to empower you,
Trust and obey what God wants you to do,
Prudently prepare for the disasters coming to the world,
Thank Him for the confidence and courage;
He will see you through.
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Leaving Discouragement Behind
On this dark, cloudy day I just plod along,
Yes, I’ve been missing my sunny day’s song,
Discouragement crept up and got inside;
I’ve got a life to live, I shouldn’t curl up and hide.
Leave discouragement behind, recognize instead
The old enemy has been messing with my head;
It’s time to face the facts and confess,
Ask the Lord to hold me close and bless.
Leave discouragement behind, receive hope and peace,
It’s time for a revitalizing release;
I can walk in the light of God’s Word today,
Remember He wants me to trust and obey.
Growing in faith is my assigned task,
Confidence and courage are mine, just ask;
Cancel that gloom! With determination
I’ll declare new-found joy with celebration.
By Elaine Hardt
©2009
Yes, I’ve been missing my sunny day’s song,
Discouragement crept up and got inside;
I’ve got a life to live, I shouldn’t curl up and hide.
Leave discouragement behind, recognize instead
The old enemy has been messing with my head;
It’s time to face the facts and confess,
Ask the Lord to hold me close and bless.
Leave discouragement behind, receive hope and peace,
It’s time for a revitalizing release;
I can walk in the light of God’s Word today,
Remember He wants me to trust and obey.
Growing in faith is my assigned task,
Confidence and courage are mine, just ask;
Cancel that gloom! With determination
I’ll declare new-found joy with celebration.
By Elaine Hardt
©2009
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Potential Benefits of Your Problem
Life not treating you fairly these days?
Can you keep going a little longer?
When — not if — situations get even worse, can you still hold on to your faith a little longer?
The irritations you’re already dealing with may prod you to more strength. The rotten situations your imagination can foresee may develop in you greater determination. And astoundingly, huge good might accrue to people around you as a result of how you choose to react to your challenges.
In distressing circumstances some people will cave in, give up faith, take stupid drastic measures, even commit suicide. But there’s a better way, a way that brings undreamed of success.
God’s Word says He has an amazing outcome for you. Great, unexpected benefits may result from your small acts of faithfulness to Him.
Around the world most people have it much worse. They’re suffering from deplorable economic issues, severe government restrictions, cultural calamities, health disasters. The evening news will tell us more than we want to hear.
Examples of various reactions to adversities can be seen in the lives of many people who are outlined in the Bible. Here’s a sampling of men and women who had miserable circumstances that they didn’t create and didn’t deserve. Each could have responded differently, to their detriment. Read the full accounts in Scripture.
JOSEPH: His brothers ganged up on him, sold him to foreign traders. Far from home he was a slave, circumstances got better as he worked hard and smart, but was thrown into jail because of the lies of the wife of his master. One after another he had a rotten day, but he worked hard and smart in jail and finally was released. His leadership skills gained him the second highest position in that foreign nation. Amazingly, he forgave his brothers and was eventually reunited with them and his father. Thousands and thousands of people benefited from his insight, judgment, and actions.
DANIEL: A teenager was captured by invading foreigners and carried off to a ungodly foreign land. He held to his belief in God, good health practices, and spoke up to those over him. Amazingly he worked his way up in government and developed his leadership qualities. Jealous men in high positions fixed it so Daniel would be killed. Sure enough, he was thrown in the lions’ den. What a rotten day that was, except for the fact that God had a outstanding deliverance for him. The king proclaimed to the entire nation about the true God. Daniel became a blessing for thousands of people.
DAVID: As young man he was sought out by Samuel, prophet of God, and was anointed to be the king. What a rotten day it was when King Saul found out and hunted down David to kill him. For several years David was on the run, but he showed no hatred towards King Saul. Finally, in God’s timing Saul died and David was crowned. David wrote most of the Psalms, and his staunch faith has affected unknown millions of people.
ESTHER: A beautiful young woman’s parents died, and her uncle took her in. They lived in a foreign country of unbelievers where they concealed their racial and spiritual heritage. Amazingly, she was chosen to be the queen; that was a great day. But later when an enemy plotted she had to exhibit great emotional strength to confront the situation. The king had been fooled into making a murderous decree, but thanks to Esther and her Uncle Mordecai the situation was changed entirely, saving thousands of people.
OTHERS: The Bible gives the accounts of other men and women who endured various struggles. We can be reminded and inspired by reading about them.
This is not a “generic god,” but the Creator of Everything, who gave Jesus to be our Savior, if we accept Him.
The book of Psalms can help us focus on the provision of God for all sorts of situations. To read it is like taking vitamins for the soul.
God gives wisdom. We are to act on it. People are not to just sit around and commiserate with each other. Governments may be harsh and ungodly, but those who love God will still work hard, use good judgment, and keep their faith.
Things could get even worse. You might not even still be around when God turns things around. Some day you may give up your life as a testimony to hateful, murderous unbelievers. Others before us have found the strength to die for the Lord.
Even in tears, give Him a trusting smile. A wonderful eternal life in Heaven awaits God’s children. This is ultimate success.
Today, keep taking one step of faith after another. Nothing can come between His love and you. And, let these words be an encouragement to you; God can use you to bring a blessing to others.
# # #
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Can you keep going a little longer?
When — not if — situations get even worse, can you still hold on to your faith a little longer?
The irritations you’re already dealing with may prod you to more strength. The rotten situations your imagination can foresee may develop in you greater determination. And astoundingly, huge good might accrue to people around you as a result of how you choose to react to your challenges.
In distressing circumstances some people will cave in, give up faith, take stupid drastic measures, even commit suicide. But there’s a better way, a way that brings undreamed of success.
God’s Word says He has an amazing outcome for you. Great, unexpected benefits may result from your small acts of faithfulness to Him.
What’s going on?
Feeling weighted down with the problems of the world in general, and your own, in particular is a common complaint. Most of us would make good use of a huge eraser to remove the stress and frustrations from any typical day.Around the world most people have it much worse. They’re suffering from deplorable economic issues, severe government restrictions, cultural calamities, health disasters. The evening news will tell us more than we want to hear.
What are the choices?
How do people react to trouble? Sadness, discouragement, depression? Fear, agitation, alarm, panic? Aversion, confusion, denial? Hostility, hatefulness, brutality? Or, learning, responding with spiritual considerations and strength of purpose?Examples of various reactions to adversities can be seen in the lives of many people who are outlined in the Bible. Here’s a sampling of men and women who had miserable circumstances that they didn’t create and didn’t deserve. Each could have responded differently, to their detriment. Read the full accounts in Scripture.
JOSEPH: His brothers ganged up on him, sold him to foreign traders. Far from home he was a slave, circumstances got better as he worked hard and smart, but was thrown into jail because of the lies of the wife of his master. One after another he had a rotten day, but he worked hard and smart in jail and finally was released. His leadership skills gained him the second highest position in that foreign nation. Amazingly, he forgave his brothers and was eventually reunited with them and his father. Thousands and thousands of people benefited from his insight, judgment, and actions.
DANIEL: A teenager was captured by invading foreigners and carried off to a ungodly foreign land. He held to his belief in God, good health practices, and spoke up to those over him. Amazingly he worked his way up in government and developed his leadership qualities. Jealous men in high positions fixed it so Daniel would be killed. Sure enough, he was thrown in the lions’ den. What a rotten day that was, except for the fact that God had a outstanding deliverance for him. The king proclaimed to the entire nation about the true God. Daniel became a blessing for thousands of people.
DAVID: As young man he was sought out by Samuel, prophet of God, and was anointed to be the king. What a rotten day it was when King Saul found out and hunted down David to kill him. For several years David was on the run, but he showed no hatred towards King Saul. Finally, in God’s timing Saul died and David was crowned. David wrote most of the Psalms, and his staunch faith has affected unknown millions of people.
ESTHER: A beautiful young woman’s parents died, and her uncle took her in. They lived in a foreign country of unbelievers where they concealed their racial and spiritual heritage. Amazingly, she was chosen to be the queen; that was a great day. But later when an enemy plotted she had to exhibit great emotional strength to confront the situation. The king had been fooled into making a murderous decree, but thanks to Esther and her Uncle Mordecai the situation was changed entirely, saving thousands of people.
OTHERS: The Bible gives the accounts of other men and women who endured various struggles. We can be reminded and inspired by reading about them.
What can I expect?
Calamities call for courage. Battles call for belief. The time of trouble is definitely the time to trust and obey God.This is not a “generic god,” but the Creator of Everything, who gave Jesus to be our Savior, if we accept Him.
The book of Psalms can help us focus on the provision of God for all sorts of situations. To read it is like taking vitamins for the soul.
God gives wisdom. We are to act on it. People are not to just sit around and commiserate with each other. Governments may be harsh and ungodly, but those who love God will still work hard, use good judgment, and keep their faith.
Things could get even worse. You might not even still be around when God turns things around. Some day you may give up your life as a testimony to hateful, murderous unbelievers. Others before us have found the strength to die for the Lord.
Even in tears, give Him a trusting smile. A wonderful eternal life in Heaven awaits God’s children. This is ultimate success.
Today, keep taking one step of faith after another. Nothing can come between His love and you. And, let these words be an encouragement to you; God can use you to bring a blessing to others.
Romans 8: 31, b - 39, NLT
“If God is for us, who can ever be against us?
Since He did not spare even His own Son
but gave Him up for us all,
won’t He also give us everything else?
Who dares accuse us
whom God has chosen for His own?
No one — for God Himself has given us right standing with Himself.
Who then will condemn us?
No one — for Christ Jesus died for us
and was raised to life for us,
and He is sitting in the place of honor
at God’s right hand, pleading for us.
Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love?
Does it mean He no longer loves us
if we have trouble or calamity,
or are persecuted, or hungry,
or destitute, or in danger,
or threatened with death?
No, despite all these things,
overwhelming victory is ours through Christ,
who loved us.
And I am convinced that nothing
can ever separate us from God’s love.
Neither death nor life,
neither angels nor demons,
neither our fears for today
nor our worries about tomorrow —
not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.
No power in the sky above
or in the earth below —
indeed, nothing in all creation
will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed
in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
# # #
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
Beyond the Ordinary
Way beyond what I thought
Or ever dared to pray,
God has revealed in His word;
Amazing provision for outstanding works
That applies to me today.
Not for a few perfect saints,
Not for a time long ago;
God’s commands and promises
Given for ordinary people, you and me;
Truths He expects us to know.
What I let hold me back
Keeps me in weakness and sin.
I’m called to obedience,
And welcome the powerful presence of
His Holy Spirit within.
Not to earn His love,
Not to earn some fame,
There is work to do
To demonstrate His mighty power,
Bring glory to His name.
Called to be far greater;
Called, a mighty work to do,
God expects me to grow up, beyond the ordinary,
and trust Him to work through me.
Now I’m willing and able, too.
by Elaine Hardt ©2001, improved ©2009
Or ever dared to pray,
God has revealed in His word;
Amazing provision for outstanding works
That applies to me today.
Not for a few perfect saints,
Not for a time long ago;
God’s commands and promises
Given for ordinary people, you and me;
Truths He expects us to know.
What I let hold me back
Keeps me in weakness and sin.
I’m called to obedience,
And welcome the powerful presence of
His Holy Spirit within.
Not to earn His love,
Not to earn some fame,
There is work to do
To demonstrate His mighty power,
Bring glory to His name.
Called to be far greater;
Called, a mighty work to do,
God expects me to grow up, beyond the ordinary,
and trust Him to work through me.
Now I’m willing and able, too.
by Elaine Hardt ©2001, improved ©2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
Writing It Down. . . Important for Both of Us
What you think
can slip right out of your brain.
What you say
can slip right out of your mouth.
What you write has potential
to bless you, remind and help you;
and what you write has potential
to go out and bless others.
Appreciate these gifts from God,
the ability to think and speak,
but especially the opportunity to write
information, challenge, encouragement.
Ask Him about it, and then get started doing it
with peace and joy and enthusiasm.
This writing it down is important for both of us,
and today is the day to begin.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
can slip right out of your brain.
What you say
can slip right out of your mouth.
What you write has potential
to bless you, remind and help you;
and what you write has potential
to go out and bless others.
Appreciate these gifts from God,
the ability to think and speak,
but especially the opportunity to write
information, challenge, encouragement.
Ask Him about it, and then get started doing it
with peace and joy and enthusiasm.
This writing it down is important for both of us,
and today is the day to begin.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Monday, June 01, 2009
What If?
What if? Two little words can bring a frown.....or a smile. What if?
Two little words beckon our minds to survey, consider, examine, contemplate, and react. What if?
It's an interesting challenge to think things through. From the frivolous to the serious, we can benefit from asking "what if." Depending upon the circumstances surrounding us we might respond with fear or anger, tears or laughter.
Everything from figuring out what to cook for supper, to how best to navigate a sudden spring storm while on the back roads of town, the words "what if" might lead to careful, mature steps which might help us achieve some very necessary results.
Presupposing there are alternatives, we could be playing with, or plagued by, some mental gymnastics. Unless our schedule has us chained to rigidity we have a certain freedom. Perhaps not freedom to change our circumstances, but in any case, the freedom to change our attitude about it.
Eventually, we may even question our own existence! We might find the answer to why we were born and why we will die. People from ancient times until today have concocted all kinds of ideas as to who is responsible for this world, the universe and everything else. Conveniently, some have concluded that there is no creator, hence no requirements, no rules, no qualifications to consider.
Take a look at ninety photos: http://www.hubblespacephotos.com/ These views interrupt our small, solitary thoughts with immense, magnificent vistas beyond our small earth and blue sky. Did it all “just happen” and here we are — with no design, no purpose, no future?
A satisfying solution to this what if can be possible for the honest, searching mind willing to spend a little time asking that two-word question. What if there is no creator, no Heavenly Father? What if there IS a God?
It's time for some serious thought about that huge, gorgeous night sky and the One who made it, and us.
Photo from http://www.hubblespacephotos.com/a-thumbs.html
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Curiosity and Honesty
With careful eye and immense curiosity
I looked anew at the world around me;
I am amazed at its complexity,
Great power is evident, obviously.
Enthralled, I stood outside and looked at the skies,
The universe exuded magnificence to my eyes;
This is no mere accident, I honestly realize.
Aloud to Someone I exclaimed my surprise,
“Oh Creator,” I called out to Someone There,
“First, I appreciate this great wonder everywhere;
I’d be untruthful if I said I didn’t care.
To be disrespectful, I wouldn’t dare.”
I paused, uncertain if I should go on to say
Some people here deny our Creator yet today.
Despite study, learning and observation,
Stubborn pride denies God in creation.
“Of course, You’re There and somehow Here,
You would know everything, way far out and near,
My body did not accidentally emerge from slime,
You have a purpose for me to live in time.
Thanks for the greatness of creation you share.”
I do see evidences of one great God everywhere;
I must acknowledge to myself with a deep sigh,
Many people have messed up, I think I know why.
If they’d acknowledge one powerful God as true,
Why He’d expect something back from me and you.
And we couldn’t live in carelessness or sin,
We’d have to own up to needing forgiveness within.
No God, no judge of our behavior?
No rules we have to follow, no need of a savior?
Why, if there WAS a God we couldn’t do what we please,
But since we haven’t seen Him we pretend to be at ease.
What folly to deny what simple facts proclaim,
Jesus called Him, Father in Heaven, by name.
What greater love than to die for our sin?
What stronger response than to invite Him within!
Curiosity shows my willingness to learn,
Honesty means from stubbornness I will turn;
One life to live and then….and then…..and then?
To face my Creator, and I don’t know when!
I discuss this with you, my friend, in all sincerity;
I’ve become a believer, unmistakably.
Now with these thoughts I challenge you,
Look at the Bible, it’s time to decide what’s true.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Can you spare 3 minutes? Take a look at Isaiah 40:28, 43:15, 44:24, 45:9, 45:11-12, 51:13, 54:5.
I looked anew at the world around me;
I am amazed at its complexity,
Great power is evident, obviously.
Enthralled, I stood outside and looked at the skies,
The universe exuded magnificence to my eyes;
This is no mere accident, I honestly realize.
Aloud to Someone I exclaimed my surprise,
“Oh Creator,” I called out to Someone There,
“First, I appreciate this great wonder everywhere;
I’d be untruthful if I said I didn’t care.
To be disrespectful, I wouldn’t dare.”
I paused, uncertain if I should go on to say
Some people here deny our Creator yet today.
Despite study, learning and observation,
Stubborn pride denies God in creation.
“Of course, You’re There and somehow Here,
You would know everything, way far out and near,
My body did not accidentally emerge from slime,
You have a purpose for me to live in time.
Thanks for the greatness of creation you share.”
I do see evidences of one great God everywhere;
I must acknowledge to myself with a deep sigh,
Many people have messed up, I think I know why.
If they’d acknowledge one powerful God as true,
Why He’d expect something back from me and you.
And we couldn’t live in carelessness or sin,
We’d have to own up to needing forgiveness within.
No God, no judge of our behavior?
No rules we have to follow, no need of a savior?
Why, if there WAS a God we couldn’t do what we please,
But since we haven’t seen Him we pretend to be at ease.
What folly to deny what simple facts proclaim,
Jesus called Him, Father in Heaven, by name.
What greater love than to die for our sin?
What stronger response than to invite Him within!
Curiosity shows my willingness to learn,
Honesty means from stubbornness I will turn;
One life to live and then….and then…..and then?
To face my Creator, and I don’t know when!
I discuss this with you, my friend, in all sincerity;
I’ve become a believer, unmistakably.
Now with these thoughts I challenge you,
Look at the Bible, it’s time to decide what’s true.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Can you spare 3 minutes? Take a look at Isaiah 40:28, 43:15, 44:24, 45:9, 45:11-12, 51:13, 54:5.
Thursday, May 07, 2009
A Flower in Africa
Beautiful flowers come in lots of colors, shapes, scents, textures. Joy snapped this photo when she was in Africa.
Memories Behind, Possibilities Ahead
Mama was a little girl
in a distant time that’s past;
She said she grew up slowly,
but her childhood didn’t last.
When it was my time, it was
another miracle of birth;
God’s plan still continues on
for people here on earth.
He gives us days and months and years
with blessings great and small;
Thinking back we can remember
some things, but not all!
It’s good to have a special day
to turn our thoughts above,
Consider anew life’s memories
and ponder the depth of love.
The older we get, the more
discoveries will come along;
Living shows us we need the Lord,
those challenges can make us strong.
Mothers and fathers go before us
to live their allotted span;
With God’s help we carry on
and say, “Yes, I think I can!”
Trust and obey, remember that song?
We children sang with delight;
Do you recall your mama’s embrace?
And bedtime prayers at night?
Certainly I want to make them proud
as time goes flying by;
Adventures are awaiting me,
“More faith!” becomes my cry.
Thinking ought to lead to questions,
yes, there’s a lot to know;
Thankfully Jesus came to save us,
for the Bible tells us so.
With memories behind,
possibilities ahead,
“Make the most of each day,”
that’s what my mama said.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
in a distant time that’s past;
She said she grew up slowly,
but her childhood didn’t last.
When it was my time, it was
another miracle of birth;
God’s plan still continues on
for people here on earth.
He gives us days and months and years
with blessings great and small;
Thinking back we can remember
some things, but not all!
It’s good to have a special day
to turn our thoughts above,
Consider anew life’s memories
and ponder the depth of love.
The older we get, the more
discoveries will come along;
Living shows us we need the Lord,
those challenges can make us strong.
Mothers and fathers go before us
to live their allotted span;
With God’s help we carry on
and say, “Yes, I think I can!”
Trust and obey, remember that song?
We children sang with delight;
Do you recall your mama’s embrace?
And bedtime prayers at night?
Certainly I want to make them proud
as time goes flying by;
Adventures are awaiting me,
“More faith!” becomes my cry.
Thinking ought to lead to questions,
yes, there’s a lot to know;
Thankfully Jesus came to save us,
for the Bible tells us so.
With memories behind,
possibilities ahead,
“Make the most of each day,”
that’s what my mama said.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Friday, May 01, 2009
Full of Emotion, Empty of Words
Empty of words to say,
Empty of words to write,
I look towards Heaven and raise my hands in prayer;
Thankfully my Father knows.
I’ve looked again at the past,
I wonder about the present,
I’m overwhelmed at the thought of the future,
Then and now and soon to come.
So humbled by the realization
How small and insignificant I am,
Of course, I yield to God, Almighty Creator;
Truth and Reality point to Him.
The miracle of Jesus becoming one of us,
The amazing outpouring of His love on the cross,
The awesome power of His resurrection and ascension,
The astonishing gift of Holy Spirit abiding in believers.
At first, so bereft of words
More have since lined up on this page
As I seek to point my unseen reader
To the greatness of God.
By Elaine Hardt ©2008
Empty of words to write,
I look towards Heaven and raise my hands in prayer;
Thankfully my Father knows.
I’ve looked again at the past,
I wonder about the present,
I’m overwhelmed at the thought of the future,
Then and now and soon to come.
So humbled by the realization
How small and insignificant I am,
Of course, I yield to God, Almighty Creator;
Truth and Reality point to Him.
The miracle of Jesus becoming one of us,
The amazing outpouring of His love on the cross,
The awesome power of His resurrection and ascension,
The astonishing gift of Holy Spirit abiding in believers.
At first, so bereft of words
More have since lined up on this page
As I seek to point my unseen reader
To the greatness of God.
By Elaine Hardt ©2008
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
When Things Look Bad: Look Up!
What to do when things look bad? How to cope? Succeed?
Lift your eyes to the Lord. He’s definitely the One you need.
Abraham, told to offer up his son, then lifted his eyes to find the ram;
The shepherd, alone seeking, then found the one missing lamb.
Isaiah, after King Uzziah died, looked up and saw God on His throne;
John in exile looked up and saw Jesus; definitely John was not alone!
Naomi in sad goodbyes, looked up to see Ruth would not stay behind;
Joseph looked up from the pit, surely rescue was on his mind.
Daniel, threatened with death, still looked up to God in prayer;
Elisha’s servant saw chariots of fire protecting them there.
Each of these, and many more, found help when things were bad;
Look up to the Lord, may be the best advice we’ve had.
God allows this struggle, these hurdles on the race of life;
We may face misunderstandings, adversity, and strife.
Be honest to God as you repent of your sins and pray,
His blessing might be delayed or may come today.
Surrender pride and confusion and worry and fear!
Look up! God’s loving presence is so very near.
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
Lift your eyes to the Lord. He’s definitely the One you need.
Abraham, told to offer up his son, then lifted his eyes to find the ram;
The shepherd, alone seeking, then found the one missing lamb.
Isaiah, after King Uzziah died, looked up and saw God on His throne;
John in exile looked up and saw Jesus; definitely John was not alone!
Naomi in sad goodbyes, looked up to see Ruth would not stay behind;
Joseph looked up from the pit, surely rescue was on his mind.
Daniel, threatened with death, still looked up to God in prayer;
Elisha’s servant saw chariots of fire protecting them there.
Each of these, and many more, found help when things were bad;
Look up to the Lord, may be the best advice we’ve had.
God allows this struggle, these hurdles on the race of life;
We may face misunderstandings, adversity, and strife.
Be honest to God as you repent of your sins and pray,
His blessing might be delayed or may come today.
Surrender pride and confusion and worry and fear!
Look up! God’s loving presence is so very near.
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
The Earth Speaks Eloquently
Water, fire, air, and elements exclaim their existence:
Magnificent sights to be seen,
Textures to touch or view from afar,
Elements aggregated elegantly,
Sequences of actions to observe.
You and I ponder the earth’s conversation:
Looking superficially, seeing trivially?
Looking deeply, seeing significantly?
Observing, thinking, questioning,
Learning, and caring.
Our attempts at understanding
Proclaim the value we place upon this earth
And the value we place upon ourselves.
Earth speaks of power beyond our imagination,
Earth speaks of design beyond our appreciation,
Earth speaks of its Creator,
A wondrous statement of truth.
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
photo by Joy Hardt ©2006 taken in Africa
Sunday, April 12, 2009
What Treasure Might Be Here?
photo by Joy Hardt ©2006, taken in Africa
Double click on photo to enlarge this wonderful scene.
A Treasure for You
A tiny, golden nugget is hidden among the gravel in a rushing stream. It would take patient effort to find and claim it.
A little prize, not readily visible in the grassy yard awaited an eager child’s discovery. It would be greeted with giggles and smiles.
A sparkling ring lies among the wind-tossed leaves at the edge of the parking lot. Who will spy it?
What fun to go on a treasure hunt and find something valuable.
Here’s an idea for you. Approach each morning with the anticipation that God is going to give you a wonderful small treasure concealed in the busyness of your day.
There’s no price tag dangling from the gift. In fact, an awareness of God’s presence is the perfect, unique present to every man, woman, boy and girl. It is the supreme treasure, so you must not miss out on this. When you’ve invited Him into your life you’ve taken the first step of faith. You become His child, and He is your Heavenly Father.
Now He wants to give you many other, amazing tokens of His loving provision. Each day brings a treasure to you.
What would it be?
Perhaps the unexpected present from God will be a word of wisdom that you didn’t possess previously, maybe an encouragement from someone, or a glimpse into a solution that had evaded you.
This treasure would be something waiting for you to notice and claim, perhaps something calling for your response of appreciation. It might be something very, very small, so don’t overlook it. Maybe it will be a flash of insight that, yes, God loves you and His plan for you today and forever is very good.
Maybe it will be confidence or courage, some success, or a surge of determination. Maybe it will be an improvement in health or energy, or a glad reminder of a forgotten memory. It might be a challenge that allows you to show the capability you’ve achieved.
It will be special, and it will be for you.
What a difference this could make. The day might be dull or hyper-active, might be peaceful or fearful, might be satisfying or overwhelming. But what a joy in the evening to realize you did find that day’s hidden blessing, unexpected, excellent, and awesome.
To uncover this surprise may require of you some willingness to use a capability you didn’t realize He has given you. Maybe it will be strength of body or strength of resolve. Whatever. It will be personalized just for you, because your Maker knows what’s happening.
What an opportunity!
What possibility!
What anticipation!
Like a rare jewel in the rough, or a beautifully crafted array of precious, polished stones, or a colorfully wrapped present with a velvet bow, the surprise the Lord has for you is very desirable.
It’s up to you to open your eyes and find the gem He’s placed in your life and circumstances for each day. Receive it with faith and gratitude and a prayer of recognition for Who He is and what He is doing for you.
Want to try it for yourself?
Wake up with a smile tomorrow and say to yourself, “Yes, God has some sort of treasure for me today. It will be fun to find it!”
At bedtime pause to look back; can you identify the special blessing that God gave? If so tell Him thank you. If you don’t recognize any special evidences of His grace for that day, remind yourself that improved spiritual eyesight will take some practice. Be thankful, anyway.
###
Here's just a few verses to look up: Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:33, Matthew 7:11, John 15:7
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
A little prize, not readily visible in the grassy yard awaited an eager child’s discovery. It would be greeted with giggles and smiles.
A sparkling ring lies among the wind-tossed leaves at the edge of the parking lot. Who will spy it?
What fun to go on a treasure hunt and find something valuable.
Here’s an idea for you. Approach each morning with the anticipation that God is going to give you a wonderful small treasure concealed in the busyness of your day.
There’s no price tag dangling from the gift. In fact, an awareness of God’s presence is the perfect, unique present to every man, woman, boy and girl. It is the supreme treasure, so you must not miss out on this. When you’ve invited Him into your life you’ve taken the first step of faith. You become His child, and He is your Heavenly Father.
Now He wants to give you many other, amazing tokens of His loving provision. Each day brings a treasure to you.
What would it be?
Perhaps the unexpected present from God will be a word of wisdom that you didn’t possess previously, maybe an encouragement from someone, or a glimpse into a solution that had evaded you.
This treasure would be something waiting for you to notice and claim, perhaps something calling for your response of appreciation. It might be something very, very small, so don’t overlook it. Maybe it will be a flash of insight that, yes, God loves you and His plan for you today and forever is very good.
Maybe it will be confidence or courage, some success, or a surge of determination. Maybe it will be an improvement in health or energy, or a glad reminder of a forgotten memory. It might be a challenge that allows you to show the capability you’ve achieved.
It will be special, and it will be for you.
What a difference this could make. The day might be dull or hyper-active, might be peaceful or fearful, might be satisfying or overwhelming. But what a joy in the evening to realize you did find that day’s hidden blessing, unexpected, excellent, and awesome.
To uncover this surprise may require of you some willingness to use a capability you didn’t realize He has given you. Maybe it will be strength of body or strength of resolve. Whatever. It will be personalized just for you, because your Maker knows what’s happening.
What an opportunity!
What possibility!
What anticipation!
Like a rare jewel in the rough, or a beautifully crafted array of precious, polished stones, or a colorfully wrapped present with a velvet bow, the surprise the Lord has for you is very desirable.
It’s up to you to open your eyes and find the gem He’s placed in your life and circumstances for each day. Receive it with faith and gratitude and a prayer of recognition for Who He is and what He is doing for you.
Want to try it for yourself?
Wake up with a smile tomorrow and say to yourself, “Yes, God has some sort of treasure for me today. It will be fun to find it!”
At bedtime pause to look back; can you identify the special blessing that God gave? If so tell Him thank you. If you don’t recognize any special evidences of His grace for that day, remind yourself that improved spiritual eyesight will take some practice. Be thankful, anyway.
###
Here's just a few verses to look up: Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:33, Matthew 7:11, John 15:7
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
Friday, April 10, 2009
There's MORE to Easter
Easter bunnies and eggs a tradition,
A token visit to church mere cliché;
Families shopping in preparation
For just another busy holiday.
Remember Passover, the slaves set free,
The blood of a lamb placed on their door;
Obedience to God was freedom’s key,
Let the Scriptures tell you more.
Messiah Jesus, Lamb of God, was slain,
Innocent, redeeming us from sin;
Death could not hold Him, He rose again,
To receive Him begins new life within.
Some celebrate Easter in lesser ways,
Let your heart find the deeper reason;
For God’s great love let us give Him praise,
Embrace Him in this holy season.
by Elaine Hardt ©2005
A token visit to church mere cliché;
Families shopping in preparation
For just another busy holiday.
Remember Passover, the slaves set free,
The blood of a lamb placed on their door;
Obedience to God was freedom’s key,
Let the Scriptures tell you more.
Messiah Jesus, Lamb of God, was slain,
Innocent, redeeming us from sin;
Death could not hold Him, He rose again,
To receive Him begins new life within.
Some celebrate Easter in lesser ways,
Let your heart find the deeper reason;
For God’s great love let us give Him praise,
Embrace Him in this holy season.
by Elaine Hardt ©2005
Possibly a Day Overlooked
Someone named it Good Friday,
And on some calendars it may appear—
Not a dress-up, party-going day,
Mostly a non-celebration each year.
For God to send His Son to die
Means sin is very bad in His sight,
Means there was no other way
To transform men’s hearts, make it right.
If paying some money would suffice,
Or doing some extraordinary good deed
Jesus would not have had to give His life,
His dying met an inescapable need.
We cannot call Him merely “good” man
When He claimed to be much more;
To be honest, we’d turn to the Bible
And see what prophecies had in store.
Centuries before, it was written
To look for Messiah, who’d come as a man,
God’s grace magnificently revealed
In a mind-boggling, loving plan.
So don’t rush to Easter Day
Without personal contemplation;
Receive forgiveness of your sins,
Make this a time of dedication.
—Elaine Hardt ©2009
And on some calendars it may appear—
Not a dress-up, party-going day,
Mostly a non-celebration each year.
For God to send His Son to die
Means sin is very bad in His sight,
Means there was no other way
To transform men’s hearts, make it right.
If paying some money would suffice,
Or doing some extraordinary good deed
Jesus would not have had to give His life,
His dying met an inescapable need.
We cannot call Him merely “good” man
When He claimed to be much more;
To be honest, we’d turn to the Bible
And see what prophecies had in store.
Centuries before, it was written
To look for Messiah, who’d come as a man,
God’s grace magnificently revealed
In a mind-boggling, loving plan.
So don’t rush to Easter Day
Without personal contemplation;
Receive forgiveness of your sins,
Make this a time of dedication.
—Elaine Hardt ©2009
Thursday, April 09, 2009
How You Happened To Get This Poem
You should have a cheerful poem
that would brighten up your day;
I should weave the words together,
if only I knew what to say.
My brain is on vacation,
this computer isn’t helping much;
I opened dictionary pages,
hoping for a brilliant touch.
Then an afternoon nap brought
a silly, wonderful dream;
the alphabet was dancing —
a lilting, melodious scene.
“Hey, what’s happening?” I exclaimed,
when to my great surprise
letters arranged themselves politely,
right before my blinking eyes.
They spelled out a message
within my restless mind,
giving me these words for you
in unpretentious rhyme.
“Believe! Receive amazing grace
that trusting in God brings;
Your heart becomes a peaceful place.”
Now finally this poem sings!
This is how you happened to get
the poem I was thinking of;
Be encouraged, dear one,
And celebrate your Father’s love.
by Elaine Hardt ©2008
that would brighten up your day;
I should weave the words together,
if only I knew what to say.
My brain is on vacation,
this computer isn’t helping much;
I opened dictionary pages,
hoping for a brilliant touch.
Then an afternoon nap brought
a silly, wonderful dream;
the alphabet was dancing —
a lilting, melodious scene.
“Hey, what’s happening?” I exclaimed,
when to my great surprise
letters arranged themselves politely,
right before my blinking eyes.
They spelled out a message
within my restless mind,
giving me these words for you
in unpretentious rhyme.
“Believe! Receive amazing grace
that trusting in God brings;
Your heart becomes a peaceful place.”
Now finally this poem sings!
This is how you happened to get
the poem I was thinking of;
Be encouraged, dear one,
And celebrate your Father’s love.
by Elaine Hardt ©2008
Sunday, March 29, 2009
So, Where's Spring?
Spring, you are a little tease!
You come and go just when you please;
We watch for snow to blow and go,
Say goodbye to winter’s freeze.
Are you here or are you not?
Will it be chilly or get hot?
When shall we plant, and what will grow
In the yard and garden plot?
We love little buds and sprouts,
and greening leaves without a doubt;
So let your bashful beauty show,
Splash your colors all about.
Whisper with your scented breeze,
Congratulate the growing trees;
Display God’s goodness, let all know
How refreshing Spring can be.
By Elaine Hardt ©1999
photo by Peter Hardt ©2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
A Good Day?
“This is God’s world,
This is God’s day,
And I am God’s child.”This cheery salutation turns our thoughts to the true priorities of life, as we shrug off the dark, chill night. Whether the sun is shining or not, we have reason to be happy.
When asked if he was having a good day, Rod, the check-out man at CostCo replied, “It’s always a good day.” Sister, Carol signs off her letters with, “Life is good. And I am blessed.”
Is this just “positive thinking,” or is it true? Is it a childish statement, or is it an affirmation from a sincere believer?
How would you write your own good morning greeting?
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Photo by Joy Hardt ©2007
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
I Wish You Flowers
Sculptured fragrance that whispers of love: the perfect rose
in creamy white, crimson red, golden-peach elegant clothes.
Delicate snow-white baby’s breath, gladiola and iris, too,
Ruffled petunia, orchids, violets, flowers of every hue.
There’s more! God’s bounty of beauty lavishly growing
Around the world a dazzling array of form and color showing.
I wish you flowers even more remarkable than any of these;
Picture a hedge with sharp thorns, taller than trees.
That’s part of its splendor. Thorns? you cry.
Yes! Well-watered, thriving, reaching to the sky.
God gives each believer a hedge of protection.
The colors are a product of sanctified imagination.
How about green, with royal-purple budded exclamations?
Or, maybe pale gray leaves and flaming blood-red carnations?
As absolute protection against all that would assault and harm our lives
His hedge perfectly encircles and wondrously beautifies,
Allowing us to bloom where we’re planted, refreshed by blessing showers.
So for today and always, my friend, I wish you a hedge of flowers.
— Elaine Hardt ©1995
Photo by Carlene Hardt ©2006
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Stranger on 29th Lane
The man walked dejectedly down the road. Glancing out the front bedroom window I just happened to see him, and I watched to see what would happen next. A moment later he turned into our driveway.
Garbed in a heavy brown jacket he wore no hat, even though the February breeze was cold this afternoon. He was carrying some sort of a large grocery bag. With only a dozen houses on our road I knew every neighbor fairly well, and I was sure I hadn’t seen him before.
Presently, the doorbell rang, and I knew it was the stranger.
With a nice smile he introduced himself, holding up a gallon plastic jug. “I have a great new cleaning product,” the young man began.
Already I knew I didn’t need whatever it was. But I was kind as I interrupted, “We don’t need any, but thank you.”
After I closed the door I went to the bedroom window where I couldn’t be seen through the sheer curtains. There he was, walking down the road to my neighbor’s house. I knew it was too early for Nancy to be home from work. This stranger would find no sales at all on this street, I thought.
Getting back to my desk a sudden heaviness filled my eyes. I wept for the man. Can you believe it?
The sensible thing was to reconsider the possibilities. He could be scoping out the neighborhood, looking for likely places to rob when there’d be no one home. He could be looking for young kids to open the door and he’d invite himself in if they said that mom wasn’t home yet. Maybe this or maybe that, who knows.
He looked strong and healthy; he should have had a real job, real work with predictable pay. But with the local economy so bad right now . . .
There was nothing else for me to do but pray. I asked God to bless him in some wonderful and unexpected way. I asked for his needs to be met. I prayed that he’d go over to the local men’s shelter in town if he needed a place to stay. Then I got bold. “Lord, keep this guy from thinking of crime. Keep him from depression and anger.” Finally, I added, “I’m sorry I am not the one to help him, but I know You have someone today for him.”
Only last week our newspaper had a story about some homeless vet who was camping out behind some bushes at the town park. A big slobbery dog found his hiding place, but snuggled up to him and kept him warm overnight. The reporter concluded by telling how that big church downtown “adopted” the guy and got him into the men’s shelter.
Oh, for a happy ending. At least I know God is faithful to His Word. He does not leave any of us alone; His Holy Spirit will speak in the quietness to that stranger’s heart and hopefully the man will respond to His love. After all, there are no strangers to the Lord.
“ . . . Lord, when did we see You a stranger
and take You in, or naked and clothe You?
Or, when did we see You sick
or in prison and come to You?”
And the King will answer and say to them,
'Assuredly I say to you, inasmuch as you did it
to one of the least of these My brethren,
you did it to Me.'”
Matthew 25: 37-40 NKJV
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
Garbed in a heavy brown jacket he wore no hat, even though the February breeze was cold this afternoon. He was carrying some sort of a large grocery bag. With only a dozen houses on our road I knew every neighbor fairly well, and I was sure I hadn’t seen him before.
Presently, the doorbell rang, and I knew it was the stranger.
With a nice smile he introduced himself, holding up a gallon plastic jug. “I have a great new cleaning product,” the young man began.
Already I knew I didn’t need whatever it was. But I was kind as I interrupted, “We don’t need any, but thank you.”
After I closed the door I went to the bedroom window where I couldn’t be seen through the sheer curtains. There he was, walking down the road to my neighbor’s house. I knew it was too early for Nancy to be home from work. This stranger would find no sales at all on this street, I thought.
Getting back to my desk a sudden heaviness filled my eyes. I wept for the man. Can you believe it?
The sensible thing was to reconsider the possibilities. He could be scoping out the neighborhood, looking for likely places to rob when there’d be no one home. He could be looking for young kids to open the door and he’d invite himself in if they said that mom wasn’t home yet. Maybe this or maybe that, who knows.
He looked strong and healthy; he should have had a real job, real work with predictable pay. But with the local economy so bad right now . . .
There was nothing else for me to do but pray. I asked God to bless him in some wonderful and unexpected way. I asked for his needs to be met. I prayed that he’d go over to the local men’s shelter in town if he needed a place to stay. Then I got bold. “Lord, keep this guy from thinking of crime. Keep him from depression and anger.” Finally, I added, “I’m sorry I am not the one to help him, but I know You have someone today for him.”
Only last week our newspaper had a story about some homeless vet who was camping out behind some bushes at the town park. A big slobbery dog found his hiding place, but snuggled up to him and kept him warm overnight. The reporter concluded by telling how that big church downtown “adopted” the guy and got him into the men’s shelter.
Oh, for a happy ending. At least I know God is faithful to His Word. He does not leave any of us alone; His Holy Spirit will speak in the quietness to that stranger’s heart and hopefully the man will respond to His love. After all, there are no strangers to the Lord.
“ . . . Lord, when did we see You a stranger
and take You in, or naked and clothe You?
Or, when did we see You sick
or in prison and come to You?”
And the King will answer and say to them,
'Assuredly I say to you, inasmuch as you did it
to one of the least of these My brethren,
you did it to Me.'”
Matthew 25: 37-40 NKJV
by Elaine Hardt ©2009
Saturday, March 07, 2009
From Frustration to Confidence
I realize that worry doesn’t look too good on me,
Frustration mounts and fogs my memory,
Fear has a way of sneaking in;
Lord, forgive me for this sin!
Just because some barely conceal anger in what they say,
Just because some are silent and look the other way,
Just because others stir up deception and strife,
I’ll not let them run my life.
Just because I don’t have all the answers needed for change,
Just because I lack the power to rearrange,
And on my own I stumble a little too much;
I’ll ask the Lord for His touch.
Economics, politics, crime, and troubles of all kinds,
Awareness of evil can overwhelm our minds;
I sort of need to know about some of this stuff,
But without the Lord, it’s too rough.
Here are some things I must continue to remind myself,
A spiritual enemy attacks with stealth;
Trust God and obey, this is the way
He gives us confidence today.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Frustration mounts and fogs my memory,
Fear has a way of sneaking in;
Lord, forgive me for this sin!
Just because some barely conceal anger in what they say,
Just because some are silent and look the other way,
Just because others stir up deception and strife,
I’ll not let them run my life.
Just because I don’t have all the answers needed for change,
Just because I lack the power to rearrange,
And on my own I stumble a little too much;
I’ll ask the Lord for His touch.
Economics, politics, crime, and troubles of all kinds,
Awareness of evil can overwhelm our minds;
I sort of need to know about some of this stuff,
But without the Lord, it’s too rough.
Here are some things I must continue to remind myself,
A spiritual enemy attacks with stealth;
Trust God and obey, this is the way
He gives us confidence today.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Ode to Weeds
Oh, beautiful for flowers small and wild variety,
Famed for unique design and curious complexity,
Nearly camouflaged in color, some of you are barely seen;
Others sprout in wild defiance, proudly wearing shades of green.
Persistently determined (from experience I’ve learned)
Emblazoned in a sidewalk crack when my back is turned.
Spring’s recent shower seems to have revitalized your beauty;
Strong-willed, you keep coming back, your staunchly stubborn duty.
Your bonnie blooms are completely unappreciated;
Your usefulness, my dislike of you, is now contemplated.
Your roots so long and tangled in non-uniformity;
I tug and then I conquer you, your toughness I can see.
I question all the work involved, oh, what is best to do?
Pull by hand in admiration, or spray the toxic brew?
In God’s wisdom He designed this fascinating sphere,
But I question your invasion, especially right here.
Would that I had gardened in Eden so far away and fair,
Then this irritating burden would not be mine to bear.
Your rowdy seed I do not need, as yet the breezes blow;
I ponder life’s existence and things I do not know.
Here, in conclusion, my simple song I urge you heed,
In tribute grudgingly, this springtime Ode to Weeds.
By Elaine Hardt ©2005
Famed for unique design and curious complexity,
Nearly camouflaged in color, some of you are barely seen;
Others sprout in wild defiance, proudly wearing shades of green.
Persistently determined (from experience I’ve learned)
Emblazoned in a sidewalk crack when my back is turned.
Spring’s recent shower seems to have revitalized your beauty;
Strong-willed, you keep coming back, your staunchly stubborn duty.
Your bonnie blooms are completely unappreciated;
Your usefulness, my dislike of you, is now contemplated.
Your roots so long and tangled in non-uniformity;
I tug and then I conquer you, your toughness I can see.
I question all the work involved, oh, what is best to do?
Pull by hand in admiration, or spray the toxic brew?
In God’s wisdom He designed this fascinating sphere,
But I question your invasion, especially right here.
Would that I had gardened in Eden so far away and fair,
Then this irritating burden would not be mine to bear.
Your rowdy seed I do not need, as yet the breezes blow;
I ponder life’s existence and things I do not know.
Here, in conclusion, my simple song I urge you heed,
In tribute grudgingly, this springtime Ode to Weeds.
By Elaine Hardt ©2005
Sunday, March 01, 2009
The Purpose of a Problem
Determination makes you strong,
Apathy makes you weak;
The problem brings a choice to you.
Reject confusion, depression!
Stand tall inside your heart;
God gives the power to you.
Pray for wisdom, help, protection.
Analyze, plan, then do;
God means for this to strengthen you.
By Elaine Hardt ©2009
Photo by Peter Hardt ©2004
Friday, February 27, 2009
Of Course, You ARE Busy!
Yes, it’s almost time for lunch
And this is a very busy day,
So, when will you make a quiet time
To plan for your future?
You are a thoughtful person. . .
None of us will live to be much past 110, will we?
None of us can quite comprehend the future;
We do want to know, ahead of time.
Should we ignore and show disrespect
To the Creator of Everything?
The time to ask questions is now,
The time to find answers is now.
The Bible is the unique word of God;
A simple prayer can open your heart
And bless a very busy person like you.
by Elaine Hardt ©2008
And this is a very busy day,
So, when will you make a quiet time
To plan for your future?
You are a thoughtful person. . .
None of us will live to be much past 110, will we?
None of us can quite comprehend the future;
We do want to know, ahead of time.
Should we ignore and show disrespect
To the Creator of Everything?
The time to ask questions is now,
The time to find answers is now.
The Bible is the unique word of God;
A simple prayer can open your heart
And bless a very busy person like you.
by Elaine Hardt ©2008
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