Easy Easter Baskets

Easter Baskets

Items Needed:

1/2 peck or 1 peck fruit basket(s)
Ribbon
Spray Paint
Hot Glue Gun/Glue Sticks
Easter Grass

Optional:

Wood Tags (or heavy Card Stock)
Vintage Easter Pics
Mod Podge
String or Twine


Instructions:

I found some super cute fruit baskets while out making my rounds at the Hobby Lobby Store for $3.99 each, and I decided that they were just the right size for Easter baskets. I also picked up some grosgrain ribbon and some wooden tags while I was there. With a little bit of spray paint and hot glue, you too can make some SUPER cute Easter baskets!

TIP!

All of these things you can purchase online should you not be fortunate enough to have a Hobby Lobby store near you. Shipping is cheap and lightening fast in their delivery. Look for the 40% off your highest price item coupon on their website.

Un-Painted Fruit Basket

http://shop.hobbylobby.com/products/natural-1-peck-bushel-basket-667634/

I spray painted the baskets white and let them dry over night.

I used my hot glue gun to attach a strip of grosgrain ribbon around the basket. I followed the brace in the center of the basket, but you could really put the ribbon anywhere you want.

Grosgrain Ribbon

TIP!

Hobby Lobby currently has grosgrain ribbon on sale for 99 cents a roll (Score!) in more colors than you can stake a stick at.

http://shop.hobbylobby.com/search/?keyword=grosgrain%20ribbon&match=AND&F_Sort=2&perpage=96

Then I tied a cute little bow on one side of the basket for a little more color.

I bought some wooden tags {4/$1 at Hobby Lobby} and with the use of some Mod Podge - covered the wood tag with a sweet little vintage Easter pic - which I then attached to each basket with a bit of string (you could use baker's twine, yarn or anything really that is in a color that coordinates with your basket)

Vintage Easter Pics on Wood Tag

Filled the basket up with green paper Easter grass. Add treats, eggs, toys etc..

All ready for Easter!

TIP!

In place of the wood tag (above) you might want to print out the pic (or pics) of your choice - on heavy card stock (to give it a little weight) punch a hole and tie it to your basket.

I'll be posting some sweet vintage Easter pics next so stay tuned!

Basic Home Remedies

Basic Home Remedies:
Using Baking Soda for HEALTH: 

1. Natural Deodorant- Sprinkle or pat on pure baking soda on your armpits for a natural deodorant. This is most useful for those summer months when one tends to chaff.

2. Stinky Shoe Remedy- Sprinkle generous amount into sneakers or other shoes to help absorb odors.

3. Remove Splinters- Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply to the bottom of a bandage, and apply that overnight. In the morning, the splinter should be much easier to remove.

4. Antacid Use- about a 1/4 teaspoon in a small cup of water and drink to help reduce acid.

5. Mosquito Bites- Heres something I tried out this summer that worked really well. We had been outside alot and I had gotten a lot of misquito bites on my legs that were itching reallly badly. Mix a thick paste of baking soda and water and apply to the bites (helps if you haven't scratched them yet. In about 1 minute the itching stops and in about one hour the redness and swelling have gone away!! It was wonderful, and I used this remedy the rest of the summer with great results.

6. Cold Sore Remedy- Make a thick paste of baking soda and water and apply to cold sores at least two times a day.

7. Treats Burns- On your list of baking soda tips, put that it is good for burns.
 
For example:

I had a neighbour come over with a bad deep frying grease burn to her whole hand. I told her to put her hand over the sink. I had made up a liquid paste of baking soda and water, fairly thick and poured it over the hand. I said this will hurt just for the initial time I put it on, then will be ok. I then wrapped it in gauze to protect it and to keep the soda from going all over. She simply just needed to regauzed it daily.
The beauty of it is that there was no blistering and no scar later.

We Need a ~Do Over~

My Dearest Reader,

This past week I found myself feeling rather broody which is so unlike me to feel this way. It all started with listening to the idle ~talk~ of a bunch of children waiting to catch the school bus.

With ~F~ bombs flying with every other word and the constant usage of the words "bitch, bitchy and bitches" I believe that I have finally come to the realization that as a society our mortality meter has dipped way below zero.

I do not live in a bad neighborhood. Most of these children are dressed in clothing that I am convinced probably cost their parents the equivalent of a monthly mortgage payment. And yet for all of their smashing clothes, gagingly over priced sneakers, stylish Vera purses and book-bags it is obvious to me that these children have no concept whatsoever of what it means to be respectful and respect one another. It's sad. Moreover; it is more than a little depressing when you consider that these children with their morality compasses pointed in no particular direction are the future of this country.

It use to be (and not so long ago) that when a child used inappropriate language in the presence of an adult, and you called them on it, they would at least look somewhat embarrassed. Now if you call them on their language or behavior they'll quickly tell you to go "f" yourself. Not even the courtesy of telling you to "mind your own business" which is no doubt disrespectful but preferable to a "go ~f~ yourself". Somewhere amongst the sands of time we have lost the ability to value ourselves as human beings and in doing so we have lost the ability to teach our children to value themselves and others.

I am going to hazard a guess and say that this probably began around the time that parents began to try and be their child's friend instead of being their authority figure, their mentor, their moral compass until they developed one of their own that actually worked.

Parents stopped disciplining their children with the ever swift, no nonsense, over your knee butt spankings and began utilizing the retarded methods of "time outs". It has been my experience in viewing parents practice this "time out" method that what they ended up with is a child scheming in the corner of what they were going to do next. Not pondering their misdeeds.

"The rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left to himself disgraces his mother". Proverbs 29:15

I recall in my childhood that my Grams was lightening quick with the plastic fly swatter when one misbehaved. Being flopped with a fly swatter stung like a bee and caused one to ponder on rather misbehaving in that particular way ever again was worth the price. I also recall my Father once gave me a sharp rap across the knuckle with the handle end of a butter knife for reaching for the last dinner roll and not first asking if anyone else cared for it. These are things one does not forget. I survived these "hard" lessons and grew up understanding manners, and the proper way that one should behave as a lady.

"Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him". Proverbs 22:15

As I listened to these children waiting on the school bus I wonder how they behave at home in front of their parents. I doubt that they cuss like a ~sailor~ but I am equally doubtful that they show any real degree of respect either. Children today seem to have this whole sense of entitlement thing going on. They walk around with the attitude that the world owes them something and their parents have caught the fever. Giving their children whatever they want, whenever they want it, whatever it costs. How did that come about?

I'm not saying that every child is like these I have referred to but there are enough of them for it to be a scary situation. The Bible tells us to raise our children up in the ways of the Lord and they will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6). They may stray away from it from time to time but it's still there inside of them and eventually they will come back to their Biblical roots.

The Bible teaches us love and compassion and forgiveness. Why aren't we teaching our children these basic things? Not only towards others but towards themselves? If you love yourself, have compassion for yourself and forgive yourself for your past transgressions how much easier is it to extend this to others?

Our society {we} need a Do Over. We need to begin at the beginning with ourselves, our children, our grandchildren and even our great-grandchildren (if you've reaches that golden time of life) and re-learn all over again basic manners, basic acceptable public (and private) behavior, basic acceptance of one another, basic language skills- in short - basic Christian values.

We need to re-learn to value ourselves as unique, wonderful creations of God in whatever package that we currently wear. Be our package tall and thin or short and plump. Then we can more easily value others in whatever package God created them in.

Yes; dear Reader, I am of the opinion that as a society we need a Do Over. And I am praying and believing that I will in my lifetime see the manifestation of this simple prayer.

It is attainable. With God; all things are possible.




“Let your beauty be found in “the hidden person of the heart,
with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit,
which is very precious in the sight of God.”
1 Peter 3:4

Pretty Rubber Gove Tutorial

Step 1.
Cut two fabric pieces that are four inches by 20 inches.  Narrow hem one of the long edges as shown.

Step 2.
Measure two inches from edge and mark with a pencil (see the dot jus above the 18). Now measure one inch from that point and mark again (ring finger is pointed at this dot).  Again mark two inches from your last mark and then an inch from that point.  Repeat this all the way across.  (2 inches then dot- 1 inch then dot- 2 inches then dot- 1 inch then dot- Continue in this pattern until you come to the end)

Step 3.
To make pleats take the first mark you made and place it on top of next mark which should be one inch from your first mark.  Repeat this all the way across pinning each pleat as you make it.

* This is what it will look like when you have pinned all of your pleats

Step 4.
Stitch across top of pleats as shown.

Step 5.
Pin edges together as shown on each of the short ends and sew across.  Turn to outside and press. I like to add in a little spray starch before pressing- but then I starch everything!

* This is what your end pieces will look like after your quick stitch across.

Step 6.
Pin some wide ribbon to top of your fabric as shown below.  Sew acoss the ribbon (both at the top of your ribbon piece and at the bottom to secure tightly).

Step 7.
Pin the ribbon side to the bottom of the cuff of your rubber glove. I like to turn under (about an inch or so) the rubber glove as I am pinning- just to give the rubber a little more stability. But this is completely opinional. 

Step 8.
Stitch into place.

Tada! All finished and suitable for gift giving. You don't want to be the only one that looks smashing in a pair of rubber gloves. Right?


Ohhh! I almost completely forgot! Remember those pair of red gloves I was talking about earlier with the ghastly yellow cuff?

Not any more ... and it was just so ~sew~ easy!

Ghastly Hands and Pretty Gloves

Ohh How I Love You
My Pretty, Pretty, Rubber Gloves

Can I be honest with you? Yes of course I knew that I could. You are just so sweet that way and I love you for it.

I have the single most ghastly hands on the planet. True! They are always dry and cracked in spite of all of the lotions, potions, creams and ointments that I apply diligently before bed (and sometimes throughout the day if I can keep my mind focused). Not to mention that I almost always am in desperate need of a manicure.

My hands stay in everything. Things that would forever prevent me from becoming a ~hand model~ if I should ever aspire to such things as that- which of course I never would because I actually like using my hands.

During the course of a normal week I am scouring the tub with "Ajax" or "Mean Green" (or something equally hand harsh) for those hard to remove soap scum stains that men seem to insist on leaving behind after every shower. Not to forget the black ring around the bathtub left behind after giving the dogs a bath.

My husband ~Marvin~ was once quick to remind me that it would be one less chore I would have to do if I would simply give the dogs a bath outside instead of in the tub. I answered that clearly uneducated remark with your basic ~how can you even suggest such a thing~ glare. The next time I caught him sitting out on the patio; smoking a cigarette and thinking thoughts that only other men understand - thoughts of turtle wax, armor all, rain X, and so forth- I gave him a good spray with the garden hose and ask him "how'd that bath work for ya"? He never mentioned giving the dogs a bath outside again. Neither has he offered to give the dogs a bath for me ... but that's another story for another time.

Anywho; there are ovens to be cleaned, toilets to be cleaned, floors and baseboards, walls and windows, dishes completely out the wazoo and that's ever before I get to my crafting. Whereas then we have paints, glues, turpentine, glitters, more paint, more glue, more turpentine and the occasional nick from the needle when I am hand sewing. All which ultimately end up with my having a pair of hands that look like I work as a welder in a steel mill rather than being a happy homemaker.

My daughter Misty; who has lovely hands, ~glare inserted here~ is always buying me something precious to help restore some balance of moisture back into my hands but the problem is that I can't ever really quite commit to the process. For example: I received the most precious hand kit made by Burt's Bees from her. Have you heard of them? Simply fantastic company with the most divine products made from well ... organic bees wax and honey and so forth. Lovely! In my kit were things for the cuticles, wax's and a buffer for the nails, banana scented thick, luxurious overnight cream for the hands and a dainty pair of tight'ish fitting white cotton gloves with the cutest little bumble bees printed in the fabric. I must admit that it was a joy to use and the following day (after having slept in my bee gloves) my hands did look remarkably healthier.

I made a vow to continue to use it each night but eventually found myself pulling the gloves off in my sleep and then in the morning I had to spend a half hour trying to locate where I had tossed them during the night. Eventually our wheaten terrier "Mr. Doogles" ate one of the gloves (no doubt because it had the scent of banana- a fruit that he particularly enjoys eating) So; my ~vow~ to use the Burt's Bees nightly pretty much went out the window. If it's any consolation I do upon occasion slather up my hands and cover them with a pair of my husbands cotton socks while I am watching a late night movie. We'll let him ponder the mysteries of why his white cotton socks sometimes smell like bananas. It'll do him good to broaden his mental horizons ...

Naturally 90% of this could be avoided if I would simply don a pair of rubber gloves while cleaning but honestly... they are just so ugly. Listen; I don't have a vain bone in my body but really! who wants to be caught wearing a pair of those ghastly yellow gloves? They came out with a red pair years ago but ruined them by topping off the cuff in the same shade of horrid yellow. ~blah~

Next we come to the crucible of this note. Which is a simple tutorial on how to decorate a pair of rubber gloves that you won't be embarressed to be seen in and you'll be more apt to wear often simply because you'll look so dang cute in them. The tutorial with photos! will follow this post so stay tuned. You are just going to love them! And of course, as always, they will be ~sew~ easy.

Tata!

“Let your beauty be found in “the hidden person of the heart,
with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit,
which is very precious in the sight of God.”
1 Peter 3:4

Housekeeping Tips

TIPS! Every Woman Should Know

Your Basic un-Housekeeping

1. Vacuuming too often weakens the carpet fibers. Say this with a serious face, and shudder delicately whenever anyone mentions Carpet Fresh.

2. Dust bunnies cannot evolve into dust rhinos when left undisturbed. Rename the area under the couch or bed "The Galapagos Islands" and claim it as an ecological exemption.

3. Layers of dirty film on windows and screens provide a helpful filter against harmful and aging rays from the sun. Call it an SPF factor of 5 and leave it alone.

4. Cobwebs artfully draped over lampshades reduce the glare from the bulb, thereby creating a romantic atmosphere. If your husband points out that the light fixtures need dusting, simply look affronted and exclaim, "What? And spoil the mood?"

5. In a pinch, you can always claim that the haphazard tower of unread magazines and newspapers next to your chair provides the valuable Feng Shui aspect, thereby reducing your vulnerability to bad moods. Roll your eyes when you say this.

6. Explain the mound of pet hair brushed up against the doorways by claiming you are collecting it there to use for stuffing handsewn play animals for the under-privileged.

7. If unexpected company is coming, pile everything unsightly into one room and close the door. As you show your guests through your tidy home, rattle the door knob vigorously, fake a growl and say, "I'd love you to see our den, but Fluffy hates to be disturbed."

8. If dusting is REALLY out of control, simply place a showy urn on the coffee table and insist that  "THIS is where Grandma wanted us to scatter her ashes..."

9. Don't bother repainting. Simply scribble lightly over a dirty wall with an assortment of crayons, and try to muster a glint of tears as you say, "Johnny did this when he was two. I haven't had the heart to
clean it..."

10. Mix one-quarter cup pine-scented household cleaner with four cups of water in a spray bottle. Mist the air lightly. Leave dampened rags in conspicuous locations. Develop an exhausted look, throw yourself onto the couch, and sigh, "I clean and I clean and I still don't get anywhere..."



Top Ten Uses For Fruitcake  

1. Use slices to balance that wobbly kitchen table.
 
2. Use instead of sand bags during a pending flood or El Nino.
 
3. Send to U.S. Air Force, let troops drop them.
 
4. Use as railroad ties.
 
5. Use as speed bumps to foil the neighborhood drag racers.
 
6. Collect ten and use them as bowling pins.
 
7. Use instead of cement shoes for those folks that have plucked your last nerve.
 
8. Save for next summer's garage sale- to wedge the wood post sign into.
 
9. Use slices in next skeet-shooting competition.
 
10. Two words: pin cushion.

DIY Door Wreaths

Simple Home Made Wreaths

You don't need to be a ~super~ crafter to make these decorative door wreaths. All you need is a couple of styrofoam wreaths, a hot glue gun, a few essential materials and loads of patience ~since none of these are the type that can be made quick, fast and in a hurry~ But they are double cute and will save you loads of money by creating them yourself (I priced just the pinecone wreath and they ranged from $69.00 to $110.00 ~gasp~)


Pinecone Wreath

The pictures tell the story of how to create each wreath so no tutorial is really necessary. Just know that you'll be hot gluing either balls or pinecones or fabric strips for hours.

* Before beginning your pinecone wreath: Spray paint the styrofoam brown before gluing your pinecones to help blend in with the pinecones.

* A nice variety of pinecones are essential




Rag Wreath

To make the rag wreath - cut several dozens of fabric strips (approximately 6" strips) and either hot glue to your wreath or wrap around and tie off in a knot. You can do both - tie off into knots and hot glue the fabric - to give it a fuller look and to fill in any gaps that may be noticeable.

* In the orange wreath photo shown- two different size styrofoam wreaths were used. One placed inside of the other and hot glued together to create one piece. Each piece of styrofoam was covered with fabric prior to hot gluing together.

* In the pink wreath photo shown - only one styrofoam wreath was used.



TIP!

This orange wreath will take you from Autumn all the way through Thanksgiving-  which will give you plenty of time to locate some festive Winter or Christmas fabric to make another. Then of course you will want to make a pretty Spring one with pastel fabric... ~wink~


Ball Wreath

Simply begin to hot glue your ornaments in no special pattern. I think using both large and small ball ornaments makes it a little more interesting.

Also; use non-tradional Christmas colored balls for a Christmas wreath twist or to use in the spring of the year.



Have fun creating your homemade wreath and when someone asks where you got it you can proudly say "I did it myself"!

What Does The Holy Word Say?

Bible Word Study

WHAT DOES THE HOLY WORD SAY?

God's Word makes it clear that we are to desire to have the gifts of the Spirit at work in the Body of Christ. The world is longing to see all believers be living examples of Jesus, carrying on His plan and allowing the Holy Spirit to manifest Himself in and through our lives.


THE REVELATION GIFTS: THE SPIRIT MANIFESTED


1 Corinthians 12:7-8,10
"But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit ... to another discerning of spirits."


A SUPERNATURAL OCCURANCE!


According to the Word of God there are nine manifestation gifts of the Holy Spirit. These can be classified into three different categories:
the gifts of utterance,
the gifts of revelation
and the gifts of power.


The utterance gifts, which are also referred to as the inspirational gifts are:
the gift of prophecy,
the gift of tongues
and the interpretation of tongues.


The gifts of power are:
the gift of faith,
the working of miracles
and the gift of healings.


The revelation gifts, (which are the focus of this study), are:
the word of wisdom,
the word of knowledge
and the discerning of spirits.

All three of these gifts reveal something in the supernatural. These gifts of the Holy Spirit are manifested through individual believers as the Spirit of God wills. The gifts of the Spirit aren't just given for the individual, but they are given in order to edify the whole local assembly or local body of believers. 

1 Corinthians 12:11
How does this verse work with our desiring of spiritual gifts?
 
1 Corinthians 14:1
Why are we called upon to pursue love amidst pursuing the gifts?
 
John 16:13
How does this verse relate the the revelation gifts?

 

DEFINING THE REVELATION GIFTS:

All of these manifestations of the Spirit are not to be confused with the day-to-day workings of the Holy Spirit in our lives. These are unique and special instances when the Holy Spirit supernaturally shows up on the scene and brings about something that is otherwise impossible.
 
The Word of Wisdom:

The gift of the "word of wisdom" is different than the wisdom that we receive as we spend time in prayer and meditate on the Word of God. The word of wisdom has to do with perceiving the future. God opens the curtain a little bit and you see into what lies ahead. When God sees fit to reveal His own mind and purpose and plan to man in a supernatural way, He does so by this supernatural manifestation of the word of wisdom.


The Word of Knowledge:

The gift of the "word of knowledge" is different from the every day knowledge we gain from exercising our mind. The word of knowledge is a revelation to an individual of something that they would have no way of knowing outside the Spirit of God showing it to them. The word of knowledge is a supernatural revelation by the Spirit of God concerning certain facts in the "mind of God" facts about people, places, or things in the past or present.


The Discerning of Spirits:

Through this spiritual gift, we are enabled by the Holy Spirit to discern or distinguish between different kinds of spirits. In other words, the Holy Spirit can and will enable us to unmask even the most cleverly disguised evil spirit. This gift allows you to discern when others are being led by an evil spirit. You are enabled to judge the presence and activity of an evil spirit, and even identify the spirit. At the same time, the discerning of spirits also enables you to know when the Holy Spirit is working in an unusual manner, and not confuse His uniqueness with the work of an evil spirit in disguise as an angel of light.
 

WORD STUDY:
Look up the following words

1. Wisdom  ___________________
 
2. Knowledge  ________________
 
3. Discerning  ________________



THOUGHTS TO DWELL ON

Everyone all over the world is hungry to see Jesus. They are tired of just hearing about Him and they don't just want to know what other people say about Him. They want to see Him for themselves. They want to see His character, His life and His power. It's time for us to let Jesus walk and talk and live His life through us and by the power of the Holy Spirit, to do the works that He did so that the world can see Jesus through us.

God's has always intended for us to reveal Jesus to the world during our earthly lives just as Jesus revealed the Father to the world during His earthly life. We need to wholeheartedly yearn for the gifts of the Spirit to operate in the Body of Christ. We need to allow His compassion to well up within to the extent that it can't help but pour out to all those around us. Just as Jesus was moved with compassion as the gifts of the Spirit flowed through Him, so the Holy Spirit will manifest Himself through our lives to reveal the one and only true God. 


The Revelation Gifts Scriptures

John 16:13
1 Corinthians 1:5-6; 12:11; 14:1,6
Romans 11:29
Galatians 1:12
Acts 16:16
Revelation 19:10

Further Scriptures

Psalm 112:1-3
Romans 16:3-4
Mark 11:25-26
1 Peter 3:7

Basic Sew : Bath Pouf

Repurposed Bath Towel- To Pouf Pad


This is so easy to make using just an old bath towel. Follow along and you'll soon find yourself making loads of these!

What you do, is cut about 1.5 inches off one side of towel (to get that finished edge), and two circles out of the towel. Use a lid, jar (well really anything round will do) to give you a trace pattern for your nice round circles.

Then sew a long straight stitch on the raw edge of the two strip.

Next you are going to ~gather~ your fabric.

To make a ~gather~ of your fabric piece you can do it one of two ways:

Method 1. Set your sewing machine tension to the to the loosest and longest length of stitch. In other words: set your machine to a really wide straight stitch width (or basting stitch). Then begin sewing- making sure to leave a good two inches of thread on the beginning and the end of the fabric. Then gently grasp the fabric with one hand and with your other gently begin to pull the thread to make your fabric bunch as seen in the photo.

TIPS!

I like to make two lines of stiches (one directly below the first) This helps if the first thread breaks- you'll have a backup stitch.

It's important to not back thread your stitches either at the beginning or the end or you'll end up with a big old mess and have to start over.

Method 2. Using a normal Zig Zag stitch on your machine begin sewing slowly while gently pulling the bottom (bobbin) thread to gather your strip. The secret here is to not get in a rush or you'll end up breaking the thread.

Next: Sew it onto one of the circles in a spiral shape, starting on the outside (see above photo).

Next: Cut a 1.5" x 6" strip, and finish the edges with a tight zig-zag stitch.

Next: Pin the two circles together, with your 7" strip laid across the bottom.

Sew a tight zig-zag around the two circles, sewing right over each side of the strip on the bottom.

Lastly; Trim off the excess edges of your fabric handle to match the circle edges!



FRONT

BACK

There. All done! And it was ~Sew~ easy!

What Does The Holy Word Say?

Bible Word Study

WHAT DOES THE HOLY WORD SAY?

As you study about the blood of Jesus, you may not think it has too much prominence in the Word of God. But once you start seeing it, you'll find references to the blood is throughout the scriptures.

THE BLOOD OF JESUS!

1 Peter 1:18-19 KJV
"Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot"
 
COMPREHENDING THE POWER OF THE BLOOD

Many times, as Christians, we have only throught of Jesus' blood as the agent that cleansed sin from our lives; but His shed blood has accomplished far more! Christians need to comprehend the power of the blood of Jesus. It is not one of the mysteries of the Bible, but something that we can study and comprehend. God wants us to know and understand the purpose and power of the blood of Jesus so we can continue to walk out victorious lives in Christ!

There is no question that there is supernatural power in the blood of Jesus that was shed during His death on the cross.

Revelation 12:11
"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony...."

This scripture is saying that you are able to overcome trouble based on your testimony, or declaration of faith, along with what the blood of Jesus did on your behalf (1 Peter 1:18-22). Therefore, a major step in understanding the blood of Jesus is to declare your belief in what the blood has accomplished on your behalf. 

John 6:54
What does the shed blood of Jesus offer us?
 

Romans 3:24-25
What comes as a result of faith in the blood of Jesus?
 

John 16:13
How does this verse relate the the revelation gifts?
 

THE PERFECT SACRIFICE!

The New Testament is filled with references to the importance of Jesus' blood in our lives.


It is Written; The Blood of Jesus

Gives us life (John 6:53).
Brings us close to God (Eph. 2:13).
Purges our consciences (Heb. 9:14).
Gives us boldness to approach the throne of God.(Heb. 10:19)
Sanctifies us, making us holy. (Heb. 13:12)
And cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7; Rev 1:5).


The Old Testament Atonement for Sins

In Leviticus 17:11 God provided the condition for atonement. It was the shed blood upon the altar, the death of a spotless animal, which brought about the atonement or covering for sin.

According to Hebrews 10:4, the blood, or death, of bulls and goats was not sufficient to take away sins: an animal death was not an adequate substitute for the death of a sinful human. A spotless human life was required; the life of Jesus. Only a perfect sacrifice could accomplish our personal salvation. The sacrifice on the cross of Calvary was perfect. The shed blood was so pure that offending man and an offended God were completely reconciled.

Because of Jesus' sinless life and death, all the powers of hell are broken. When Jesus arose from the dead. He held in His hands the keys to death, hell, and the grave. He then gave us, His disciples, authority to bind and loose, authority to cast out demons.

Applying the Blood

In Exodus 12, the death angel passing through Egypt. God's people had been given detailed and explicit instructions on how to sacrifice a lamb, prepare it and, most importantly, how to take its blood and apply it to the doorposts of each house. The careful application of that blood to the doorposts would protect all those inside from the destroyer.

That first Passover was a type and foreshadowing of the protection we can enjoy because the blood of the ultimate Passover lamb, Jesus. Like Israel in Egypt, we must apply the blood in a specific way. We have to apply the blood of the Lamb over our households as surely as the Israelites did on that first Passover night. Not by taking a brush and painting blood on our doorposts, but by opening our mouths in faith. 


WORD STUDY
Look up the following words:


1. Redeemed  ________________________

2. Blood         ________________________ 

3. Without Blemish   ___________________



THOUGHTS TO DWELL ON

As believers, we are invariably going to be touched by unrighteousness in ways that will inhibit our fellowship with God. That's why it is so important to remain rightly connected with God's cleansing agent, the blood of Jesus. If you're taking care of yourself spiritually, there isn't anything on earth the devil can bring against you that the blood of Jesus isn't sufficient to overcome.

We must thank God daily for the blood of Christ. Talk about it. Speak it over your family. Paint it on the doorposts of your life by honoring it and giving it place in your thinking. Combine it with faith and you'll find yourself experiencing more blessing and victory than you ever thought possible. 


THE BLOOD OF JESUS:
Scriptures

Leviticus 17:11
Luke 22:20
Revelation 12:11
Hebrews 10:19-22
Ephesians 2:13
1 John 1:7
Hebrews 9:12-14
Exodus 12:13


Further Scriptures

Hebrews 9:15
John 6:54
Revelation 1:5-6
1 Corinthians 11:24-25

Breaking Yokes Part VII. Conclusion

~ Breaking Yokes - Part VII. - Conclusion ~


So; here we are at the conclusion of this very important study. By now you should have in your possession most every Scripture that was ever written Just For You! to break the yokes of negative thinking and come out from under bondage. And make no mistake about it; It Is Bondage. Rather it is the chains of the Isrealites; prior to Moses freeing them from Pharoh and leading them out of Egypt or your own feelings of negative self worth- Chains are Chains. You either have on shackles and leg irons or you have on the Ephesians Armour.

I can not urge you enough to go back and study these eighty lessons. Read a little here and a little there. Print them out and make yourself a booklet. Do whatever you want with them but study them with all of your power and all of your might and then go out and share what you have been taught here these many weeks. Ultimately; that is what it is all about. Sharing what you have been given.

Someday, at some point, I'd like to hear if this has helped you in any way in your walk with the Lord. That's my reward. Being able to Praise the Lord right along side you! because finally and at lost last you have come out of Egypt and left your chains behind.

God Bless You in the Reading of the Word!
      In His Service,
~ Dr. Angel Koerner Ph.D ~


36. That Person Has Really Gone Too Far. They've Really Devastated Me.

Today we're fasting from the thought that says: "That person has really gone too far. They've really devastated me." 

Too often we give people more power over our lives than what they actually have. By thinking they can have that big of an effect on you, you become enslaved to their whims and their attitude flavor of the month.

1. Fix your mind on Jesus - look at His life.
He was denied by His close disciple, Peter, betrayed by Judas, and forsaken by the rest of His disciples. He was lied about, accused and maligned. None of it stopped Him. In fact, He used each betrayal or personal blow against Him as a path to God's greater purpose for His life.

2. CELEBRATE when someone hurts you, betrays you or accuses you.
It says in 1 Corinthians 11:23, "in the night He was betrayed (while His betrayal was in progress!), He took bread with His disciples..." In the gospel of Mark, he writes afterwards, "They went to the Mount of Olives and sang a hymn."

3. See people's stumbling stones as stepping stones.
Jesus knew that Judas' actions would only serve God's purpose, one way or another. Don't give people's actions PERMISSION to defeat you or hinder you. Rather, use them to step into more of God's will.

4. Stay ATTACHED (one meaning for love = attached) to the promises of God's Word.
Psalm 119:165 says, "Those who LOVE (stay attached to) God's Word have great peace, and nothing offends them." We insulate ourselves from being offended when we love God's Word more than our feelings.

5. Get rid of retaliation thinking.
Entrust yourself to the One who judges righteously.
1 Peter 2:24 says Jesus kept handing Himself over to God, when reviled and falsely accused. When they did their worst to Him, He kept entrusting Himself to the hands of God. Do that today - ENTRUST YOURSELF TO THE HANDS OF GOD.

THINK IT & SAY IT:

No matter what anyone says or does to me, I will not be devastated by it. I will not give them that kind of power over me. I fix my mind on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of my faith.

I choose to celebrate, rejoice and live happily when someone accuses me or betrays me. I will not live in denial, as if it didn't happen, but I will celebrate what Jesus did for me, anyway. I will see other's actions as an opportunity for me to step further into God's will.

I trust that God will cause all things to work together for my good (Romans 8:29). I stay attached to what God says about it and I REFUSE to get offended.

God will avenge me. I will not take vengeance or become bitter. I will continue to entrust myself to Him, as I know that He will judge righteously, and defend my cause!



37. My Life Is Out Of Control.

Today we are fasting from the thought that says: "My life is out of control!" No it's not! 

That's what the devil wants you to think. He wants you to feel helpless and "under" the circumstances. When you think this way, you get discouraged. You lose hope. You give into things. Like a jellyfish, you are carried by the prevailing current.

1. Think: Above.
Stop for a moment and understand what I'm saying here. Think "above" - think from a higher point of view. Look down at life rather than "up" at it. When Elisha's servant saw from "above", he realized there were more for him than those against him. (2 Kings 6:14-17)
Notice, God didn't add any chariots. They were always there. Elisha's servant just couldn't see them, because he wasn't thinking "above." THINK ABOVE.

2. Don't see the bigger picture today.
That's not a typo! Think of your situation and your world as small. Think of yourself bigger. Don't forget - how YOU see yourself, is how life will see you. That's how the devil will see you. That's how your mountain will see you. If you see yourself bigger than the mountain (Greater is He that is in you - that makes you big!), then the mountain will respect what you say when you tell it to move!

3. The best day of your life is the day you decide your choices are your own; therefore, your life is your own.
No excuses. No one to blame. Remember the lame man at the pool of Bethesda for 38 years. He stayed in his condition because he told Jesus what he had believed for all those years: "I have no one to help me." (John 5:7) DECIDE TO OWN YOUR CHOICES and you will own the life God wants you to have.

4. Focus on the inside, not the outside.
If you're like me, there are several things on the outside that are not fully under control, but that's not my job. My job is to get control of the inside. That's what this fast from wrong thinking is about. It's taking care of the INSIDE. Deal with your thoughts by continually going over these verses, these mindsets. YOU ARE IN CONTROL IF YOU CONTROL YOUR THOUGHT LIFE.

5. Take control of your day, one thought at a time.
Don't be overwhelmed. Isaiah 28:13 says that we build God's Word and God's thoughts in our lives: "line upon line, precept upon precept."

THINK IT & SAY IT:

I am in control of my life, because I am in control of my thoughts. I rule my life by ruling my thoughts. My thoughts liberate my emotions, my health, my relationships and my whole life.

I think ABOVE beginning today. I choose to look down at life, rather than look up at it. I see it from God's point of view. I'm bigger than my problem, bigger than the mountain, bigger than any enemy I face today.

Greater, larger and more dominant is HE that is in me, than he that is in the world. TODAY IS THE BEST DAY OF MY LIFE, because I have control of the choices I make.

I will not stay in a defeated, lonely, sick, depressed condition another day of my life. I will focus on the inside. I know the thoughts of victory that I am developing will take care of my outside. This fast from wrong thinking is working IN ME, in Jesus' name.




38.  Why Don't I Have More?

As we continue our Fast from Wrong Thinking, I really want to help you get the most out of your relationship with God. He is in you. He is with you! Yet, so many people have asked how to deepen their walk with God.

I believe one of the keys is: fasting from the thought that says, "Why don't I have more?" (Whether it's more time, money, success, friends, etc.)

I remember complaining to God a while back, as I watched other people in my field getting blessed, having quicker success, etc., while I just steadily plodded along, little by little. When I was done whining, I had a sort of "Solomon" moment and heard the Lord ask me this: "Would you rather have those things, or substance and deep meaning in your relationship with me?"

Knowing that I couldn't say "both," I responded- of course- with the obvious answer. Then I heard this: "The things you've gone through and learned slowly are the precious secrets that you have built your life upon. Now you have something of substance to give that no one else can offer in the same way." That set me free. Then He said, "Now more will come."

I wouldn't trade the depth of relationship with God for anything in this world!

How do we fast from the thought that says: "Why don't I have more?"

1. Choose His face, rather than His hand.
(You'll end up with both.) Spend time with God- start with a verse, or these thoughts, etc.

2. Think positively about your adversity, rather than striving to avoid it.
Let me be clear. I am not saying that adversity comes from God, BUT IT DOES COME. Psalm 34:19 says, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all." (Know that adversity comes. Expect Him to deliver you. Expect to become better as result.)

3. See your life is a gift from God and for others.
Realize that your relationship with God and your life experiences have uniquely qualified you to make a difference in this world. Everyone has a motivational gift according to Romans 12:6-8. Perhaps to show mercy, or lead others through servanthood, or the gift of making money to give.

4. Don't ever want what other people have.
Solomon said, "Give me what you have prescribed." This doesn't mean to settle for less than all that God has for you; but don't determine what He has for you based on what other people have. God knows what He's doing in your life. Philippians 1:6 says, "Faithful is He who began a good work in you. He will complete it until the day of His return."

5. THINK SECURELY.
God has reserved a place at the table for you. God told Saul not to worry about where he stood compared to others. "There is a place at the table and a portion that has been set aside for you." (1 Samuel 9:23, 24)

THINK IT & SAY IT:

I choose the face of God. I look positively at adversity, rather than fighting to avoid it. I expect God to deliver me from all afflictions and trials.

I choose to see my life as a gift from God and for others. I have a unique and special gift that will make a difference in this world. I won't settle for less than what God has for me, but I will not desire or covet what others have.

I know that God has a portion reserved for me. He has a place for me at His table, and I think securely, therefore I live securely. In Jesus' name.




39. I Wonder If I'm Doing Enough For God.

Have you ever asked the question, "I wonder if I'm doing enough for God?" This kind of thinking produces in us a "works-mentality" and hinders the freedom and joy that God wants us to experience. Let's fast from it!

Christianity is not a life of attainment and achievement. It's a life of acknowledgment. This means to recognize, appreciate and accept.

The problem with so many believers is that they are striving to get God to do something or try to make God's promises come to pass in their lives. Gang, listen to 3 of the most important words you'll ever hear: IT'S ALREADY DONE!

1. Everything God has is yours!
You have a covenant with Him through the blood of Jesus. Luke 15:31 is a picture of God and us, the father said to his son: "All that is mine is yours!"

2. THINK "BLESSED" not "cursed."
You are blessed not cursed. Stop thinking that since you're mother or father had a disease or anger, or some other problem, that you will have it too. You are of a new blood line - the blood of Jesus. You have a new DNA - the DNA of Jesus. Galatians 3:13 says, "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us on the cross, that the blessing of Abraham might come to us."

3. IT IS FINISHED -
ahh, the magnificent final words of Jesus on the cross! (John 19:30) There's nothing more that has to be done for you to be saved. Nothing more that has to be done for you to be accepted by God. Nothing more that has to be done for you to be approved and loved! Nothing more that has to be done for you to be free.

4. Realize that your job is to acknowledge and to recognize.
God has done it. You must accept it. This is the true meaning of "confess." It means to acknowledge. We're not trying to MAKE SOMETHING HAPPEN by confessing God's Word. We're acknowledging what is already done, what is already ours, and that's what brings it out of the invisible world into the visible world. Think about "confession of sin." When you confessed your sin, that's not when you sinned. You were simply acknowledging what was ALREADY done. When we "confess God's promises," it's the same thing. We're acknowledging what is already done. Philemon 1:6 says your faith becomes effective by acknowledging every good thing that is already in you.

THINK IT & SAY IT:

I have a covenant with God, already! I'm not trying to get God to do something for me. I'm going to focus on believing what He has already done. This is what the Christian life is about - acknowledging what is already in us, and recognizing what He has already done.

I'm already blessed. I'm already healed. I'm already everything that God says I am. I will live a life of acknowledgment - recognizing and praising God for what is already mine through the blood of Jesus.

I'm "blessing" conscious rather than "cursed" conscious. I'm connected to the blood of Jesus; therefore, I have the DNA of blessing. Goodness and mercy WILL follow me all the days of my life.

I accept that I already have in me everything pertaining to life and godliness. I lack no good thing. It's already done! IT IS FINISHED.



40. It's Just Impossible.

As we come to the close of our Study, we need to take the limits off of our thinking. In order to do so, we have to fast from the thought that says: "It's IMPOSSIBLE."

Jesus said "All things are possible to him who believes!" (Mark 9:23)

What is in your life today that you have given up on or considered impossible? Whatever it is (provided it's legal!), don't ever give up. NEVER NEVER NEVER give up!

There is no greater story than the resurrection of Jesus! If a man can rise from the dead, anything is possible!

1. Think about the resurrection every day!
This reveals the miraculous power of God to do anything!

2. Eliminate thinking that says, "I can't believe that."
Cynicism and skepticism have filled our culture. We need to get out of the habit of questioning and doubting the possibility of things. When you think there's no way, JESUS IS THE WAY!

3. Deal with the real problem.
It's not whether God will help. It's whether we believe. The man with the demon-possessed son came to Jesus and said, "If you can do anything, help us..." Jesus responded and said, "If you can believe..." See it's not whether God can do it. It's whether we can believe it. And remember that faith comes from hearing God's Word. (Romans 10:17)

4. Believe that your words move mountains.
Matthew 17:20 says, "You shall say to this mountain 'Remove from here to there', and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible to you."

5. Meditate on people who had an impossible situation turn around. Abraham was 99 years old when he had a son. Sarah was 90! Moses parted the Red Sea. The list goes on and on. Find those people in the Bible and fill your mind with their testimonies.
Hebrews 12:1 says, "We have a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us..." If it could happen for them, it can happen for you and IT WILL, if you don't throw away your confidence in God's promise...because THE ONLY THING IN THIS WORLD THAT IS IMPOSSIBLE is that: it is impossible for God to lie. (Hebrews 6:18)

THINK IT & SAY IT:

Since Jesus rose from the dead, anything is possible. I expect impossible situations to become possible today. I CAN BELIEVE THAT!

Jesus is my way when there seems to be no way. I BELIEVE GOD CAN AND WILL DO ANYTHING IN HIS WORD THAT I BELIEVE.

Since my words can move mountains, nothing will be impossible to me. I will not throw away my confidence in God's promises, because there is only one thing in this world that is impossible - for God to lie. Therefore, His promises WILL happen in my life, beginning today!

* Today as we approach the end of our fast from wrong thinking, I want you to acknowledge (to recognize) some things. And as you do, I hope you'll join me in taking a personal Communion at some point. Just have your wine/waffer or grape juice/bread ready, set a date and then carry through with it.

See; communion is a RECOGNITION that He is already with you, in you, and for you. Remember in Luke when the 2 men on the road to Emmaus thought Jesus was a stranger. When they took bread, it says "they recognized Him." You see, He was already with them, but when they took communion they were able to recognize and EXPERIENCE His presence. Take your communion and enter into the presense of God!

1 Cor. 11:23-26 NIV
23 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread,
24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me."
25 In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me."
26 For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.


Concluding Communion Prayer:

Father, we thank You for this opportunity to come together as a united Christian front, the many membered body of Christ to partake of the Supper in honor of You.

You!! who are so worthy of all praise and glory. You! who watches over our comings and our goings. Lord thank you for the price You paid on our behalf at Calvary. And we know that even during that painful time You saw us through the ages and were pleased at the people we would become and will continue to become as we grow in You.

Thank You Jesus for loving us and guiding us as we walk this Path called Righteousness. Though oftentimes it is difficult- You are with us and it is always worth it.

Reveal to each of us in Your perfect timing those things that You would have us to do that will bring You the Greater Glory.

It Is In Your Precious Name We Pray, Amen!