Category: For Sisters of Faith

For Sisters of Faith

Victorious Living – A Sister’s Story – Connie Haile

A. Knight

My name is Connie Haile. I became a Christian when I was 21. At 21 I had been married, divorced, and married again and going to have a child with my second husband…who is wonderful by the way.
I just played church for three years then the devil became to play with my mind….long story short I was very fearful of being sick. It just came out of the blue . I had never battled with anything like that before. I didn’t know the Word or the power of His name. I just got worse and worse….I would sit in the yard with my little girl everyday after Mike went to work.
The Lord one day sent me someone that knew the power of God’s word…..she and two other wonderful people who just took me under their wing and taught me how to stand on the word and not be moved by what I was feeling or hearing from the devil.
That was one of the hardest things I had ever had to do. Back then we didn’t know about panic attacks or pills that would help. So, it was just me and my Precious Heavenly Father. It was a long hard battle but I never crumbled….I didn’t want to be this way and if God said he would do it ….I took him at his word.
Praise Jesus I am set free from the spirit of fear! People often say that there is no way that I don’t have bad, blue days…..but I stand with great confidence that no I don’t have blue days……why, because I make a choice to walk in His Joy everyday of my life…I can’t afford to open the door to fear…the lack of joy is fear….no thank you, been there done that and don’t ever want to go back.

So then when my youngest was 2 and my oldest was 5 my husband decided that he didn’t love me anymore and wanted a divorce. Talk about a shocker!

I had been telling a friend whose husband had left her, that God would bring him back, she just needed to stand on the word…..I shared scripture with her all of the time…four months to be exact almost everyday.
This one particular day we were sitting in my drive way and I was giving her my daily speech about the power of God’s word and if she would just stand, Jim would come home. She looked at me funny.
I said to her, “I know you are thinking, how do you know, you have never been in my shoes.” She said that was exactly right. I got out of the car and went inside and it wasn’t long when Mike came home to deliver the news. He began to tell me how he didn’t love me anymore and that he was going to move out. I just stood there and then I told him I had to leave but would be back. I called my friend and she came and picked me up to take me to my spiritual parents house. We prayed for several hours.
I just knew when I got home everything was going to be fine. But I was wrong . He was sitting on the couch with all of his stuff waiting to go. Needless to say, he left.
What was I going to do? I had to do what I had been telling Susan. For months I had told her about the power of God’s word…..I couldn’t back up now…so I did exactly what I preached to her about.
Mike would call me, sometimes everyday telling me he didn’t love me anymore………….this went on for 9 months. I just stood firm on His word. Sometimes several times a day I would say, Thank you Father that Mike loves me as Christ loves the church.
God honored his word above his name. It was a true test of my faith and sometimes things in the natural looked really dark, but God’s Word always changed things for my good. I had to learn a lot about myself and change a lot of things about myself…it wasn’t just about Mike leaving, it was about how the Lord wanted me to change some of the dumb things I did as a wife.
Mike came home and told me that he did everything in his power to stop loving me but the harder he tried the more he loved me. The Lord reminded me how I stood on the scripture. “Mike loves me as Christ loves the church.”
The more I stood on that scripture the more Mike loved me. God’s word never fails.
That was 27 seven years ago and Mike and I have been married 34 years.

Then March of last year I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. It was in my lungs and several other places. I told the first doctor that I was healed in Jesus name and he told me that it was my faith that had kept me alive this long. The doctors in Dothan told Mike I only had 3 to 6 weeks to live.

It was decided that I go to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Fl. So off we went….I was on oxygen and in a wheelchair. We met the doctor and she quickly told me that she wanted to do chemo. I told her that I was healed in Jesus name and she turned around and told me that only God could heal me. The chemo was only going to control and comfort me. Healing was not in the equation.
I told her to just hide and watch! She ordered scans of all sorts. We got the results back and she told us that there was cancer in several places. She wanted to start chemo immediately but I told her that I wanted to go home and spend time with my family. I also told her that I would do chemo only if they could promise me that I would not throw up. I told them I didn’t not want to do that everyday. They promised that would not happen as long as I take the medicine they gave me. They honored their word because I never got sick or felt bad. God is so faithful.

I began to listen to healing cd’s 24/7, and I quoted healing scriptures all the time. I guarded myself from negative people. Couldn’t afford to hear anything negative. I stayed guarded.

The word says to be careful what you hear and that is what I did. The devil was out to kill me and I was not going to give him the pleasure of taking me out…..I was going to put a good fight of faith.
I had 8 rounds of chemo….my blood levels never went below normal. My blood platelets never went below normal either. The doctor was so amazed with my blood. Everyday I would say out loud so that every demon from hell could hear it, “Thank you Father, that your blood flows thru my veins bringing healing and health to all of my flesh.” He honored His word above His name.

The second set of scans showed that all the tumors had shrunk 50%. My doctor was so excited and so was everybody in the clinic. That was the first miracle….When I finished chemo I had more scans made. The results came back and the cancer in my brain, liver and bones was gone! The tumor in my breast was a 10 and had shrunk to a 1.5! We were so excited and she was amazed…..remember she said that healing was not in the equation. Of course, she says that I responded so well to chemo….I would tell her.. no I am healed in Jesus name. She would just look at me.

Next and last step was 7 weeks of radiation. I lived with my son and his wife for that time in Tampa. That was a real test of faith,— not living with them, but what radiation had to offer. But because of the power of God’s word working in me…..I made it. Going through radiation brought me to another level of bringing my thoughts captive. I would lay on that table and because of some of the procedures it was very painful and lengthy. It is times like these that one must bring their thoughts captive or the pain and just crazy thoughts would take you to a place of fear. It was a battle sometimes but the Lord always carried me through.
That 7 weeks was such a wonderful time of ministry. Everyday there was someone to pray for or just give a smile. The power of a smile should never be under estimated. There is healing power in a smile…I saw that everyday.
When you are wondering what can I do for someone in a situation like that ..….give them a smile.

The end of December I had more scans and Praise the Lord, my doctor stood amazed at the results. She said that she never dreamed they would be like this……healed and whole. God is so faithful to his word no matter what the battle is. The devil is a liar and he will do all he can to get you to listen to his lies and turn from the word of God. No matter what the battle is Jesus is still the same…..He promises that He will never leave us or forsake us. His Word has 365 “fear not’s”…that is one for each day. How sweet is He to make sure we will have a promise for everyday so we won’t be afraid. He has made provision for us for everything we are going through.

I would not be here today if it weren’t for Him and the power of His word! So whatever it is you are facing….get the Word, find the scripture you need, and hold on to it! Speak it out of your mouth until it becomes life within you and makes its home in your heart! For out of the abundance of your heart your mouth speaks….stand strong….
He is your refuge, your fortress, and the God in whom we trust. His joy is our strength. The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives in us to quicken our mortal body. Glory to God and the promises go on and on!
Thank you Connie! There is power in her words! The power comes from the Holy Spirit that lives within her!
We want this blog to be a place where you can come and find hope for your situtation! The BIBLE is the key—to unlock the heart of God for your life! YOUR situation! As Connie said, stand on His Word. HE never fails!
For Sisters of Faith

What in the world??

A. Knight

In case you think you happened upon a group of girls who have nothing to wear but purple…let me explain….

These are just some of the sisters of faith! Marsha—from Marsha’s Musings graciously took 24 shirts to Africa–(click on the picture to get close ups) and there is one taken in Scotland…we have a couple Sisters of faith ambassadors in California (or more), Wisconsin, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Oklahoma, The Bahamas, Arizona, Virginia and Idaho. I may have forgotten a few. Some are pictured…some are not. POINT IS…we are sisters. No matter where we come from—what color we are—what denominational tag we wear…we have the same Father in heaven and the same passion for living our lives out for HIM.

We began this journey of faith long ago—at the teaching from our mother. Many “sisters” may have just joined in the journey. No matter the when or where—we sojourn along. Together. Lifting the heart of one another. As best we can.

Marsha and I enjoyed a VERY LENGTHY lunch in North Carolina a few weeks ago! I can’t tell you when I have enjoyed anything as much as I did that day—and the day before meeting with my sweet buddy from Georgia!

On a beautiful Sunday—during our vacation–the first leg of what was later dubbed as the “Angie Tour” was spent in the company of one terrific friend and her awesome family! We left there wanting to take the whole bunch with us! Lori—you are blessed with such beautiful “people”. We love you all!

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To see the pictures—click on the collage 🙂 Saturday was purple day! I wore my purple t-shirt to work! As did another co-worker. I saw many purple shirts this weekend—and smiled. Each one made me think of Wanda! She enjoyed her birthday with Jesus today. I know it was grand!
I pray your Sunday is filled with HIS presence! See you next week!
By the way—Jeff is brushing up on his next blog…but he won’t let me peek at it until it’s time for me to type it!

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For Sisters of Faith

The Name

A. Knight

Jesus.

What do you feel when you hear His name?

Power?

Peace?

Comfort?

For me, all of those and more. Beth Moore asked the question in her book, “90 Days with the One and Only”, “What hope does He stir up in your spirit?”

I listed out several things —-as just saying His name in my mind pushed the play button of my life’s tape. I saw myself at various times “relying solely” on His name. Remembering lying prostrate on the floor crying out His name, is usually first in my heart and mind. I felt the peace that only His name brings.

It is hard to fathom what might have been Mary’s feelings being told the news that she, a young woman having known no man, would bring forth the Emanuel of the world. Trying to “place myself” in her shoes, I think I would feel completely unworthy. Totally aware of my own human nature—afraid of failing El Olam, the Eternal God, the Everlasting God.

El Roi–the God who sees. Nothing is hidden from His view. Aimee and I shared a recent devotion from Psalm 139. The psalmist David said, “O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise.” That is the perfect picture of God’s all seeing, all knowing eye. His eyes are omniscient. I wrote in the margin of my book, “nothing is hidden from His view.”…Nothing. He had been watching Mary’s life. He knew the way she was brought up. He watched and knew her obedient and willing heart. It was not one put on for show. It was honest. Sincere.

Considering that nothing is hidden from His view, I wonder if Mary tried to recall any part of her life for closer examination. I know that every single time I have been asked to participate in a project—or take on a new assignment for the LORD, my shortcomings and all the areas where I feel unqualified, always come rushing to the forefront of my mind, like the ocean waves crashing on the shore. I wonder if this happened to Mary.

Beth reflected a bit on the “whereabouts” of Mary—suggests what she might be doing. I don’t know why I have always thought this—but for some reason, I have always pictured Mary in the barn–doing her daily chores. Going about her daily routine…perhaps she was contemplating God. …Maybe–singing a song of praise to the top of her lungs! …Or quietly humming to herself.

No matter where she was—it is evident—she was alone. As Aimee and I discussed recently—knowing that Mary was alone gives us reason for reflection in our own lives. …Aren’t we usually “alone” when we feel the Lord speaking to our hearts? We feel that nudging in our spirits—that causes us to pause and lean in to Him for a listen?

Has He ever told you something in the deep part of your heart/spirit that took your breath away? I imagine that for Mary—this visit from Gabriel—simply made her catch her breath! I can almost hear her intake of air as she realizes that she is no longer alone!

“Highly favored”, were the angel’s words. I have recently witnessed two different fathers expressing to their daughters their love and complete admiration for them. Not only for what they have accomplished in their lives…but just because they belong to them—they are part of them. They are proud of them—and it shows in the smiles—the love—and the words of affirmation. I think that is something that God was expressing through the angel Gabriel, “Mary, you are highly favored!”—Sort of even saying “He’s been watching your life!”

The exchange between Gabriel and Mary has always intrigued me. Many years ago I wrote a play for our church for a Christmas production. I found myself longing to have a “hidden camera” for the scene between this pair! Her racing pulse must have been evident to Gabriel because he quickly assured her with “fear not”. And, I like to imagine, when he spoke aloud the Name the infant was to be given —peace swept over her like a warm blanket. It does for me.

Jesus

A more powerful name does not exist. But not just because of the name itself—Beth relayed that it was a commonly known/used name in those days. However, it is the Owner of the name that brings the peace and power!

I was so blessed by this study—as we joined Mary in the “barn” —(or wherever you have pictured her!) I was glad to be privy to this intimate conversation between the messenger of the holy God and the daughter He chose to bring His life into the world.

I have really thought much about my own life—and how I conduct myself on a day-to-day basis. I know there are many times I fail. But as the microscope is targeted on my heart—I am allowing HIM to peel away the pain from the past years and create clean flesh—remove the stone—and the areas where I may have begun to harden due to some harsh realities of life. I WANT to be USABLE! I want to be considered “favorable” by Him.

For Sisters of Faith

Extravaganza ends in exhaustion!

A. Knight

Today was a day filled with chilled air and many activities! I started the morning off with a young fellow waking at an ungodly hour on a Saturday…before 7:00 a.m. Fortunately, he fell back asleep on Papa’s pillow and then when he woke again, “I’m ‘tarvin'” was the words mumbled from his sleepy self.

Since he is the ONLY grandson that does NOT like biscuits, I don’t offer. Instead, he would rather have cereal, oatmeal or pancakes. Cereal was his choice this morning. Easy. With lots of milk and chocolate milk on the side 🙂

While he is eating, I get started with the slow cooking process of “chili” fixings. I put it on early and let it cook all morning on low.

Jeff was busy with the Senior/Retired Minister’s Luncheon at the Activity Center and I was getting ready to head over to Aimee’s for a Holiday Extravaganza that she and Susan were hosting. It was FUN! I bought lots of goodies and even WON a door prize!!! (No it wasn’t rigged either) *grinning*

Here is a small clip of Rylan and me as he was showing me his decision from the ‘toy flyer’ he has just about worn out by looking at it!

He has picked out his birthday and Christmas gift.

If you wondered why I kept wiping his chin…he has a bit of a leaky mouth sometimes…he also was determined that his jacket stay on and zipped all the way to the top the entire time! Having a bit of OCD makes things interesting sometimes. This grandson has definitely taught me patience. He is our sweetie—visiting as often as he can.

If you want to see the video clip from the “Extravaganza” you will have to hop over to Sisters of Faith site! Susan from “Count it all joy” was there! IN PERSON! Yeah Susan! You really made the day fun! (And I suppose you know that RYLAN loves you to pieces!)

I bought some really pretty jewelry…did I already tell you that? Well, I am very excited about it—I LOVE pretties!

What did ya’ll do this weekend??

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For Sisters of Faith

Awesome Retreat!

A. Knight

Whew! We are back home! I loved the fellowship…I loved my time with the wonderful “sisters”…but I love love love my man and am so very glad to get back home to him!

God moved in amazing ways all weekend. He orchestrated the most incredible time of Bible Study, fellowship, singing, reading, sharing, laughter, tears and much prayer!

I hope that next year will be even bigger! You wanna join in the fun and fellowship? We would make room!

I was able to meet Julie of Jewelz Sightings! INCREDIBLE! I felt like I had known her for years! What a sweetheart! We had breakfast together and the Lord was just so sweet to give us that time together! She even helped “direct” us to some fun shopping when I got us turned around….imagine that! Susan from Count it All Joy was also able to be a part—along with several “other—sisters”. Officially adopted into our family of love!

We expect the Lord to grow this annual event! No telling what He will do next year! Let me know if you’d like to participate!

Don’t forget…I am still over at the “sister” site….for the Bible Study—“Sisters of Faith”…pop over with your cup of coffee! We’d love to have you!

For Sisters of Faith

Praise HIM in the STORM!

A. Knight

This [is] the day [which] the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 KJV

What feels like a hundred weekends ago–but in reality it has only been thirty something, as Jeff and I were driving home from Gainesville, Florida…leaving a very weak sister behind…my heart was the heaviest I had felt for some time.

This song came on the radio and my tears fell like the rain that was pelting the windshield of the car, as my heart wept for the “unknown”. Our family had been in this place with her before. Watching Wanda struggle. Watching the enemy try and drain her very life from her body. But friends, family and even complete strangers began to pray. People that didn’t know Wanda began to call on the Father on her behalf….and Wanda’s little body began to strengthen—for a time…until her time came.

She had some very tough times…but her strength was amazing. Her faith was incredible. She held on to her faith when it seemed I had to search sometimes for mine. Hers remained steadfast and strong.

I am reminded of her faith and strength especially on these days when I have troubles arise and I look to the heavens for my help. I KNOW where it comes from…it comes from the LORD, the maker of heaven and earth. There is not a day that passes that I don’t think of Wanda in some way. I probably always will. That is okay. For I will soon see her! That is a promise we have from the scriptures. I cling ever so tightly to that.

If you haven’t been on the Sisters of Faith site for any of the Bible Study yet, I encourage you to meet me over there. I have found the LORD so real and amazing! He has delivered His message into our hearts from the words penned by Beth Moore in her book, 90 Days with the One and Only. I have been blessed….and I FEEL what He is doing in my life. I also feel the enemy balking and trying to discourage me in my journey….but I carry on!

Denise, my melt down came yesterday. A bit lingered today…but I carry on. I grasp on to the hem of His garment and allow Him to pull me to my feet and we walk ahead. Ever reaching…ever stretching….ever running to the mark—to the place He has laid out for me—the place that takes me home. Home. Heaven.

Take His hand dear friend….He will never leave you nor forsake you…but will fill your cup as you lift it up…of HIS incredible annointing…CARRY ON!

For Sisters of Faith

Okay—ya’ll….don’t laugh!

A. Knight

It is amazing how nervous I was while trying to do this! Ya’ll don’t laugh… Aimee and I are planning of a little “pre-Bible Study” get together….so this was my way of experimenting! AND ELAINE…I did HUG your neck in the first CLASS and I was so nervous….I forgot to mention your name!!! Please forgive!

DON’T LAUGH! I had such a hard time with this…I KNOW I sound “country”…can’t really help it! But—hey…we all come from somewhere! Where do you come from??

http://godtube.com/flvplayer.swf

For Sisters of Faith

Before the STUDY

A. Knight

When this book first arrived on the shelves at LifeWay Christian Store I felt compelled to buy it. Right then. Trouble was, no money right then. So I waited. And waited. I soon forgot about it. More books arrived to pique my interest!

Around Thanksgiving last year, Wanda and I had discussed both of us getting this book and doing the study together. I thought “what fun”! I could picture it in my head…(I am a dreamer), us sitting together at my house or at hers, talking, learning, sharing over a cup of some sort of delicious tea—and of COURSE one of Jeff’s incredible cakes!

For my birthday this past year, Wanda gave me a gift card to LifeWay. She knew how much I enjoyed that store! She also bought one for Aimee—the baby sista—her birthday had been in August, but each one of us have a tendency to get so busy we sometimes are late with gifts for birthdays, you know how it can be sometimes!

I left work one day at lunch and scurried over to LifeWay, this was in December, a few days after my birthday, and knew exactly what I wanted when I walked in. This Bible study. I was already currently involved in a study, but I was excited about doing this one. I had in my mind to buy one for Wanda too, as a surprise for her birthday in February so that we could do the study together.

However, life changed. After Wanda left this life for the Greater Life, we stumbled around a bit—in search of ourselves. We are found in Him.

Wanda gave Aimee her gift card to LifeWay, about a week after I had received mine. It wasn’t until after Wanda had passed away that Aimee used her gift card.

Wanda was an exceptional mother and wife—like none other I have known. Today, she is with the One and Only! In His very presence! Oh, how I miss my darling sister. Even though I know she is happy and whole….I still miss those daily (sometimes 5 or more times a day) phone calls! I still miss her tiny frame sitting beside me in Wednesday Night Bible Study at church as well as on Sunday. Okay, I must stop here with this. Or the keyboard will become a bigger mess!
So as we open our books to discover more about Jesus, our One and Only, let us empty ourselves of self. Allow Him to be poured into our hearts as never before.

Something that I would like each of us to do as we begin, is put our heart’s desire onto paper. In black and white. A letter to our Lord and Saviour if you will. On the blank pages before the first study, write out what you NEED. What food you lack–nourishment for your soul. If you want to be more private (if you don’t want anyone to have access to your words), write in on a seperate page, seal it in an envelope and you may even want to secure (glue) the envelope to the inside of the hard cover of the book.

At the end of these 90 Days with Him, reflect back over what you have written to the Lord of your life. See where you are spiritually. I would also like to propose a challenge to each one of us participating. Earnestly seek Him about something that we might need to lay aside for this period of study time. Perhaps television, or maybe another form of entertainment that may consume your time—time that you can devote to studying His word. Maybe one meal per day. Maybe—-hold on to your seat—-maybe “dessert”—for this time. I leave that between you and God.

I’m only suggesting this. You may not feel led to lay anything aside. That’s fine. The point is to put our ALL into this study. Seeking the Lord each day with fervency before you go to your quiet place of study.

Okay—I am posting this here as well as Sisters of Faith in plenty of time. The comments will be turned on over at Sisters of Faith—feel free to interrupt—with your thoughts—we will go back and forth with the conversation —sharing what we think—and feel with one another! There’s still time to get your book if you don’t have one. Join us—I think it will be good!

For now the comments on my own blog will remain off so that I can devote myself more to the Bible Study. AND hopefully—the problem with my comments will get resolved. BUT you can e-mail me anytime at av_knight (at) hotmail (dot) com.

I love you all! I am working on a wittle surprise….so maybe I can “prize” you this week!!!

For Sisters of Faith

Day Two—Women’s Camp Meeting!

A. Knight

I am having SO MUCH trouble with this slide show. If it doesn’t appear on this blogpost, please click this link to go directly to my picasa photos.

Tea Time and Siesta Time-Carmel Womens Campmeeting

http://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf

These are some awesome “Sisters of Faith”….precious Sneads A/G women of faith! These were taken at my mother’s house on Friday morning–second day of the Women’s Conference.

I promised them I wouldn’t use their names….but you may recognize my mother and my sister—I left the camera with Aimee on Friday (because this sister of faith had to work), and she took some great pictures of the Tea at the Church; the “faith-sisters-sleeping” and then I arrived home just in time for the “Mary Kay Makeover” session! It was a blast!

I would encourage you—plan to attend the conference next year. It takes place around the same time every year. I will find out the dates and let you know in plenty of time to “book-your-flight”. The conference itself is free. You pay for your room and food! My mother was hostess to several of the sweet “sisters” from Sneads Assembly of God~and I was able to join in the fun this year! What an incredible blessing~of course I can’t name names….but they were awesome!

Sneads girls, I know exactly why Aimee and Juno love you all so much! You are easy to love!!

Now don’t forget, if you want to be involved in our September Online Bible Study, see Sister Janice or Aimee to find out the best place to get your book! LifeWay in Dothan currently has them in stock, or you may order online through Christian Book Distributors.

For Sisters of Faith

She Speaks—She Writes–She Contemplates!

A. Knight

A couple of weeks ago…my sister, Aimee and I attended our very FIRST conference together!

Way up in North Carolina (okay, so I know that’s not “way up”, but for us…it was 🙂 )

Can I just tell you how NERVOUS we were? Can I tell you how the enemy has plagued my soul??? Can I tell you how much sleep we lost?

But can I tell you how good God is??

I really wish we could have recorded our trip on video…we could have won the $10,000 prize for the funniest video! We were quite a pair. From our first sip of that “iced coffee” when we left, to getting turned around in Columbus, GA, to pluggin’ through Atlanta…to me getting my bag hung in the elevator when we were leaving for home—it was a blast!

But for today….I need to give you something from the archives of my devotionals… There is something stewing…in my brain. A second chance the Lord gave me—just last week. But since it is still in the “cooking stages” of my thoughts—I remembered this and it “sort of” goes along with it…

Here ya go…..

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We have all heard or used the saying, “famous last words”….either just before or immediately following something wild, crazy or maybe just some unusual circumstances.

During some thoughtful days a few weeks ago, some words from my favorite Sunday School teacher came back to my mind. George said, “you should always treat and talk to your loved ones better than you would strangers”. He immediately recounted a family story of when he and his wife were traveling somewhere (sorry George, I can’t remember where you were going), and they had been having a loud family discussion (maybe it wasn’t loud, maybe it wasn’t a discussion—but you get the picture) in the car. Now if you’ve ever traveled anywhere, whether it be to Church, Wal-mart or on vacation with children, you know that no matter how short the journey, sometimes children can make a 5 mile trip feel like 500 miles. Sometimes you can’t help but raise your voice (okay, maybe yell). Anyway, while on this little driving jaunt, a car pulled along side George’s car and with the window rolled down the driver from the other car asked for directions. Well George, in his sweet caring voice, gave them wonderful directions and then wanting to make certain these individuals arrived safely at their destination, he proceeded to tell them to just follow him, it was not out of his way.

George, I hope I am telling this correctly [if you are reading this], but immediately when he rolled back up his window, he felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit. (His sweet wife also may have nudged him) He had spoken with more love and compassion to those total strangers than he had just moments prior to that scene than with his own family. What was up with that?

What if that were his last words to his family. What if that were the last scene of his life?

I know many times I have allowed our girls to leave the house for school, or get out of the car after some particularly harsh “growing up words”. You know, you have probably had them yourself….”you are old enough to know better!”…”I have told you and told you!”….”Come on, clean up this pig sty!”…What if that were the last words you left this life with? What if that were the last things your loved one heard you say?

This has been on my mind a lot lately. A few months ago, a dear friend of my mother had an aneurysm on the brain. After surgery, they did not give the family much hope of recovery. But little by little the Lord is bringing her back. The very morning it had happened, she and my mother had their normal morning walk. They talked of the usual things, their church, family, life routines. What were her conversations with her sweet family members? I have no idea. Knowing Jackie as I do, they were caring words. She is a caring person. She is trying to converse again, although with the tracheotomy, it is more difficult. But she proceeds with the trying! She is a fighter! She has been a school teacher most of my life. A teacher of the Bible at church as well, for almost all ages! Her circumstances have given me much to ponder though. If I were to leave this world today, or become incapacitated, unable to communicate ever again, what would be the last conversations my loved ones remember?

I hope my daughter Tiffany would remember that I told her I loved her. I hope she would remember that I told her that our whole family loved her and cared for her. I hope that she would cherish the hug I gave her. I hope that she would “write down” the prayers her children pray before they sleep. That is a priceless treasure.

I hope that my daughter April would remember what she is to me. I hope she would remember that I thanked her for taking the time out of her day to come and clean for me. I hope that she would hold tight to her heart the hug I gave her. I hope that she would continue to be the bright light and compassionate individual for Christ she is.

I hope that my dear husband would remember the feel of my arms as I held him for our morning “hug”. I hope he would remember the tenderness I feel as I told him I loved him. I hope he would remember what he saw in my eyes. I hope he remembers that I promised I would love him from now to eternity and then forever….

I hope that my friends and loved ones could each say that they caught sight of Jesus at work in my life….these are just a few of my hopes.

In doing a search of “famous last words” online, I found a couple I want to share….

Cleveland, Steven Grover (1837-1908) Grover Cleveland was the 22nd and 24th President of the United States. “I have tried so hard to do right.”

Edison, Thomas A. (1847-1931) “It’s very beautiful over there.” In the Spring of 1929, Thomas Edison traveled from his home and laboratory at Menlo Park, New Jersey, to Dearborn, Michigan, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his invention of the electric light as well as the opening of both the Ford Museum and Greenfield Village. After being introduced by President Hoover, Edison delivered a brief banquet speech and then collapsed. The president’s physician quickly rushed to Edison’s aid and determined that he was suffering from severe pneumonia. Edison returned to Menlo Park but never fully recovered. He collapsed again in August, 1931, and was bedridden for the last two months of his life. He sank into semi-consciousness, and his second wife, Mina, remained by his side. On Edison’s last day, she leaned close and asked, “Are you suffering?” to which he replied, “No, just waiting.” Edison then looked out of his bedroom window and softly spoke his last words.

This has not meant to be a gloomy post, but one for reflection. When my youngest daughter, April was saved from the jaws of death in a tragic automobile accident (the driver at fault was killed—drinking—no insurance), the frailty of life hit me like a ton of bricks. It became very clear, like never before clear, that God and only GOD controlled the breath we take for granted. She was saved from death, although, not without the scars for a reminder of how uncertain life can be.

The uncertainty of our future should give each of us cause to pause, not only where we will spend eternity, but how we leave our loved ones. When the Lord chooses to call me home, I want to leave knowing I have done my best for Christ. As my uncle once said, “to hear Him say “Well done, thy good and faithful servant“, you will have to do well.”

In reflecting back on Wanda’s last words…the Lord has given me sweet reminders in the past few days…reminders that only HE would have known about, from some of His sweet obedient children (Iris and Lori). That is another post—but coming soon!

Whether my last words ever make it to the pages of a book is of no importance, I choose rather to be remembered by my proclamation that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life!


Information on Thomas Edison: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Edison