a day of beauty

A day of beauty.

Radio receiver or just getting highlights? Houston, do we have a problem? Lol.

Sinks-o-plenty.

The final product.

my kitchen herb garden...

Sprouting Thyme & Basil... Yay!

rest... in God alone

My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. (Psalm 62:1)

to see His face

To see His face, this is my goal,
The deepest longing of my soul;
Through storm and stress my path I’ll trace
Till, satisfied, I see His face!

(Chisholm)

love

I was listening to a radio program the other day and an interesting discussion took place. The speaker was commenting that in this world, great men will dispute many things when it comes to the gospel. Men will argue whether Jesus Christ was indeed God and if He is alive today. Theology will be argued. Scripture will be argued. You name it… men will argue any and all of these things. There is only one thing that cannot be argued…. true, unconditional…LOVE.

When someone is exposed to real LOVE… true LOVE – it is unexplainable and cannot be argued. Even if initially the mindset is that the person expressing love has an alterior motive - - if the love is true love - it will soon be realized that there is no other motive and it becomes unexplainable and thus unarguable. All that can be said is that it is beyond our understanding. And with that - there is God.

As Christians, we know that we are to LOVE God with all our hearts AND we are called to LOVE one another. God knew that by displaying true LOVE – the LOVE of Jesus… God will be glorified through us. Because, God is LOVE. Let’s show people what true, unexplainable LOVE is. Let's show them Jesus through our love!

God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him. (1 John 4:16-17)

Blessings!

~Victoria

punk beagle

a rose by any other name

"A rose by any other name would smell as sweet"... a commonly quoted part of a dialogue in William Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet, in which Juliet argues that the names of things do not matter, only what things are. (Victoria's Note: Silly Juliet.)

my honey's manly regime

momba planning the pool

perfume

albums

texas sky

with my sweetie for fish fry dinner

bird on a wire

merry-go-round in the mall

parade lines of trees

watching the morning birds... waiting

stories of reflection

a good breakfast

dala horses

I read this today and thought I'd share...

"Sweden, in the harsh winter of 1716, was at war. Many soldiers were quartered in homes in the province of Dalarna. They were cold and hungry. The story goes that one soldier carved a Dala Horse from a log of wood. He gave it to the child of the home, but before he did so, he painted it bright red and decorated the harness and saddle with kurbits. This was a biblical touch, echoing the scene in which Jonah sat in the desert and a kurbit - a gourd vine - grew round him to protect him from the sun. Carving the stocky, snub-nosed, tailless horses was already a Swedish tradition, but until then they’d been unpainted. In return for the toy, the woman of the house gave the soldier a bowl of soup. He made another horse. More soup. Word got round. Other soldiers began carving and painting horses for food. Dala horses have since become a symbol of Swedish goodwill, frugality and dexterity."

I love being Swedish and I love our simple little Dala horses!

Have a great day!

~Victoria

beautiful roses

Beautiful roses that Momba brought home today.  

We are expecting company this weekend and know that, just like Paris,

 flowers are always a good idea!

Lovely!

rocky

Rocky on our back patio.  He's so good.

my little pink evangelizing mouse...

My little pink evangelizing mouse.  God uses all things for His good!

home sweet Texas home!!!

My aunt just sent this adorable picture of my Grandmother at the resale shop. They live back in Chicago and found this Texas sign for our new Houston home at the Goodwill for $2.00!!!! I can't wait until they visit us here, and clearly I will cherish it always - knowing my almost 93 year old Grandmother picked it out especially for our Heavenly Home!!!

devoted to God

You are not insecure when you are secured in God's kingdom!
You are not weak when you stand strong with God's word!
You are not anxious when you abide close to God's presence!
You are not defeated when you fight bravely for God's righteousness!
You are not without a future when you remain devoted to God's only begotten Son!

Believe in Jesus and be blessed!

~Victoria

a pure princess

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:1-17)

Let's take a personal inventory of what we allow into our lives. Do we seek what is holy? Or, do we accept what is "normal" to this world. Really, on an average day - in all that we read, view, hear, say... are we guarding our hearts and filling our temples wisely? Do we seek what is decent and acceptable in the eyes of our Savior?

I fear we are not. I fear that many of us have actually gotten used to sinfulness. We have accepted it as normal. I'm amazed at how much indecency unbecoming to a Christian woman we actually have given into. It is everywhere: our conversations, media, games, music, clothing... even in some of our churches. When we read the news, we are faced with tragedy and hopelessness. When we view movies and television, we are overwhelmed with immodesty, vulgar language and violence. When we flip through magazines (even Christian magazines) we are inundated with advertisements prodding us into accepting how unsatisfied life must be since we haven't purchased, read, or attended the latest "whatever" out there. And it is not just toward us alone - it is part of what we teach our children to accept also.

So, today I feel compelled to ask, do we REALLY live our lives seeking what is holy for ourselves?...for our families? Do we guard our hearts or do we just allow ourselves to become increasingly numb to the sensory overload of sin out there?

Read Colossians 3 again and ask yourself these important questions:

(1) As God's child, do you make a point to clothe yourself and your family with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience?

(2) Do you let the words of Christ dwell in you "richly"? (Before answering this, meditate on what Paul meant when he added the word "richly" into this passage?)

(3) Do you spend your time mirroring Christ? Do you worship Him regularly by singing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs? If so, how often? Is it more than how much television or Internet time you digest in each day?

(4) Are you grateful... really grateful to God in your heart? If so, do your actions compliment your gratitude?

(5) Most importantly, in whatever you do... whether in word (speech) or deed (actions), do you do it in the name of the Lord Jesus?

Now back to our personal inventory... Do we really seek what is holy? Do we let Christ rule in our hearts so that He outwardly shows up in every area of our lives. Do we insist upon pleasing Him in all things? Or have we given in and given up in some areas? Would we be embarrassed to have Jesus sit next to us and watch what we watch? Hear what we say? Accept what we have come to accept?

Perhaps it is time to surrender these areas over to Him and ask Him for forgiveness. Paul reminds us to "put to death" whatever belongs to our earthly nature and set our hearts and minds on things above.

DW's, we are saved by grace and set apart from this world. Our Master desires for us to be close to Him and live honorably as His royal princesses. He is The King. We should act like His ladies. Let's remember to live graciously and praise Him with our lives.

He is worthy and pure... As his daughters, we should strive to be pure also.

Blessings!

~Victoria

you are loved

You matter.
Your are unique and beautiful.
You have an individually important purpose that is vital for harvesting goodness on this earth.
You are lovable.
You are loved.

As you start living out this beautiful new gift of today, remember this truth: Jesus loves You!

Blessings!

~Victoria

stop and swoon over the Lover of your soul

Ya know, it's really easy to forget what is most important.

It's easy to get lost in the clutter and chaos of the day;

To be drowning in our own expectations;

To fall victim to too many things, topics, projects, motives that aggressively monopolize our precious time.

It's easy to lose sight of what should be simple:

To love Jesus.

To love Him madly.

To love Him more.

To make Him the priority of our lives.

To live ga-ga over the very thought of His presence.
To hang on His every Word.

To do nothing until we have made sure to praise Him in obedient devotion.

It is a simple decision to pause and love God first.

Yet we complicate the simplest things, don't we?

We selfishly choose outside of God.

We over consume and flood toward the distracting, the noisy, the demanding.

We suffocate ourselves with our own plans, ideas, quests...

Attempting to single-handedly climb out of our own personal pits.

Agreeing to forgo seeking after the most important relationship...

All in the name of busyness, wealth, prosperity, success.

Yes, frequently we stray farther away from the Shepherd and lose sight of what is most important.

So, on this new day... rather than start with our usual complications,

I encourage you to join me in laying aside all that distracts.
Surrender whatever is troubling your soul.
Leave it and no longer conform to your old pattern.

Instead, decide upon the simplest solution and appreciate the joy of God's life-giving breath and comfort.
Surrender it all on His altar and GIVE. IT. OVER. TO. HIM!

Receive and delight in the Savior's joy!

Be transformed and renewed as you whole-heartedly embrace the only objective God has given...

To love Jesus.

To love Him madly.

To love Him more.

To make Him the priority of your life.

To live ga-ga over the very thought of His presence.

To do nothing until you have made sure to praise Him in full, obedient devotion.

Ladies, as we begin this brand new month of possibilities... why not first stop and make the time to swoon over the Lover of your soul.
He is the best priority.
His is the Way, the Truth, the Life to run after.

So, love Him reverently without succumbing to chatty lip service.

Love Him humbly with full transparency, honesty, and faithful submission.

Yes, today... choose to simply love Jesus more,

With all your heart.

With all your mind.

With all your soul.

With all your strength.

Believers, be enraptured with God this very hour.

For we who are in Christ have taken on His Eternal Name!

We are His dearly beloved.

So... simply, forever...

Love Jesus first.

Love Jesus madly.

Love Jesus more.

This is the day to dance closely, privately, intimately with your magnificent King!

This is the day to simply adore your perfect, heavenly Husband!

Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. (Jude 1:21)

Blessings and Happy September!!!

~Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

grace

"Vic, aren't you and Momba attending that new Bible Study at the church this morning?"  My husband asks as he prepares our morning coffee.

"Yes."

"What's the topic?"

I respond, "It's about being a gracious wife." Then I coyly kid around, "Don't worry, I'm all over this one, Honey... it's in the bag!  These women don't know who they're dealing with!!!"

Chuck chuckles and rolls his eyes.  Without missing a beat, he chimes in with his own lovable wit, "Well, you know... there can only be one 'Ace' in grace, Baby!"

(ROFL!  He is so funny!!!)

OK, but seriously... this past week Momba and I started attending a Women's Bible study held in a new church my family is considering.  Since moving to Houston, both Chuck and I have been praying over what church our family should regularly attend (a daunting assignment), and among many other contenders, this lovely congregation was introduced to me by an old teacher/friend who used to live near our new neighborhood.  (Thank the Lord for how He uses His people to help each other - and in His perfect timing too!)  Long story short, Chuck and I checked out the church's website, then called their office to introduce our family in advance of a planned visit this upcoming Sunday.

In doing so, I learned that their Women's Ministry was ramping up this very week for the upcoming Spring quarter and was asked if I would be interested in registering for one of their classes.  "Sure!"  So with the Hubby's consent, Momba and I decided to jump right in and make our first in-person encounter via the side door of their Women's Ministry.  Nonetheless, we all are very much looking forward to attending their more formal services this upcoming Sunday together as a family.  In the meantime, we have been getting to know them via their podcasts and agree with the teaching they have offered.  Yay!

Anyway, back to Tuesday morning...

I called through the house, "Momba, are you ready?... We're going to be late!  We should have left fifteen minutes ago!"

(Grrrrr.  I hate being late.  Where is she?)

"I'm coming, sweetie."

Momba turns the corner of her bedroom looking just as cute as ever.  We both survey one another's outfits, smile in approval, and then start to leave the house.  I yell out, "Honey we're going.  LOVE!"

"LOVE!" He calls back.

As we hop into the car to head out, I worry out loud again, "I think we are going to be late, Mom."

She answers relaxed, "No, we'll be just fine."

"Alright, if you say so."  (But I'm thinking otherwise.)

But as usual, she was right.  We were just fine.  God got us there in record time, with five minutes to spare.  And once settled in our meeting room, I realized that we could have shown up much later.  For the women in the room were in no hurry at all.  These southern belles had all the time in the world to gather, and sing, and worship, and chat, and relax.  Soon, the efficiency of my Midwestern side began to get the better of me and I became impatient.

I internalized, "When do we start the Bible Study, people?  I have a life, ya know!  I have things I want to get done later today!  Is this gonna be an all day thing?  If so, perhaps you need to rethink and be considerate of those of us who have a schedule!!!  Come on, already!  I have to go home and show Chuck how much more gracious I've become!"  (I know, I'm embarrassed even as I type this.  LOL.)

Finally (a whole hour later), the time had arrived for each of us to break into groups and begin our Bible Studies.  You see, the topic I had chosen wasn't the only study about to take place in this Women's group.  Unlike my small Bible Study group back in Chicago, this group of women is large enough that they can conduct several Bible Studies at one time. In fact when signing up, I had the choice of three morning studies and one evening study to choose from.  First, there was a study reviewing the Names of God with Kay Arthur; second, a study that got into the book of Ephesians; third, a study on the Patriarchs (it seems no Women's group is complete without at least one Beth Moore video series); and lastly, the study I chose because it was taught and developed by one of the pastor's wives at the church, and I thought that might be nice as we will be getting more familiar with the church in weeks to come... The Gracious Wife.

The doors were closed to the classroom, we were handed course outline papers, and a small-framed beauty stepped up before the remaining crowd.  Upon first glance I could tell that our instructor was clearly gracious.  Her outfit was impeccable.  Her voice was soft and her heart was evident in tenderness and total love for Jesus.  As she introduced herself, we learned that this was the third time she had facilitated this particular study.  She was someone who had overcome physical obstacles.  She was a mother, a wife, living through the many challenges we all face.  Then she began to share God's Word as it related to being a gracious person.  But rather than take in the truths being read, my mind started to race as I perused the course outline...

I internalized again, "Wait, there is no homework?... No formal study materials?... Just this quick outline!  What kind of Bible study is this?  When will we actually be "studying" the Bible, lady?  (Darn it.  I should have signed up for that Beth Moore study!  Ya always know what your getting into with Moore!)"

I leaned over to Momba who was peacefully enjoying the presentation and whispered, "Ya know, we can still sign up for that Beth Moore study if you want."

Momba looked at me confused.

"I mean, if you want to have more homework and all to keep us accountable."

Momba smiled and said, "Whatever you want, sweetie."  But as she said the words, I knew.... already, I had given up.  Already, I had rushed ahead and moved on.  Why?  Because (a) my heart was not focusing on Christ, and (b) because my expectations were not being met to my liking.  My way wasn't happening.  For in my opinion, too much time had been wasted from the start.  Too little materials were produced for the study.  It didn't matter that every woman sitting in that room was there to worship Jesus... I had simply forgotten that same purpose.  As a result, I had already dismissed giving this lovely instructor the chance to teach me something valuable for the next two months.  Why... because it wasn't happening in Chicago..., because it wasn't with good ole' familiar Beth Moore-like materials..., mostly, because my mindset was lofty and my heart was hard.

I could hear the Holy Spirit question, "Really, Vic?  REALLY?"

Humbled by my own ungraciousness... I prayed forgiveness and realized, "I really don't have this in the bag, do I, Lord?"  I asked God to open my eyes and ears.  To teach me.  To open my heart to all the new people, places, and things here in Houston.  To slow down my anxious, internal pace and allow me a second chance to please Him in how I act and think within this new place... within this new church... within this new life.  Praise the Lord for every revealing moment of our New Life in Christ!  May we continue to be restored and corrected in His holiness!  May we continue to be humbled by His everlasting graciousness.

Grace.  To offer unmerited or undeserved favor.  To love completely without strings attached.  To give freely.  To extend ongoing consideration and goodwill.  To display elegance, charm, ease, kindness, forgiveness, charity, mercifulness, loveliness.  To cultivate decency.  To petition every blessing and to be thankful.  To glorify and honor.

Thank you, Lord Jesus.

Now, let me share the key points I took away from Tuesday morning's Bible Study...

• True humility is preemptive and disarming.

• For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

• The world says, "Change to be accepted."  Jesus says, "I accept you in order that you might change." 

Blessed be the gracious Name of Jesus!!!
Let us each strive to be near Him and know Him.
Let us always choose to glorify and honor our patient, peaceful Savior as we freely love one another... without strings attached.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (2 Peter 3:18)

Lord, let us be humble... and let our humility be preemptive and disarming to the devil's snares.  Let us be thankful for your blessings and obedient to your instructions... so that we might be changed in your holy, New LIFE!  Teach us... teach me... to be more and more gracious like YOU!

Blessings!

~Victoria

joyful New Year.... joyful NEW LIFE!

New.
New. New. New. New. NEW!!!
A NEW Year.
A NEW day.
A NEW moment.
Woo Hoo for NEW!!!

As we fall in love with the introduction of another NEW January 1st...
As we proceed forward in this NEW beginning of 2013...
As we embrace a NEW first day of the rest of our life...

Let's live THIS DAY in obedience and put on the NEW self of Christ!

Let's make Jesus our only resolution! 

For this is the day that the Lord has made!
THIS NEW DAY!!!
So, rejoice!
Be glad!
Be NEW in His glory!

THIS NEW DAY, remember whose wisdom is paramount for lasting growth.
THIS NEW DAY, remember whose love is healing.
THIS NEW DAY, remember whose kingdom is everlasting.
THIS NEW DAY, remember whose holiness and sacrifice restores and changes everything!

Yes, all things become NEW in Jesus Christ!
So, let's praise God's willingness to complete us in His fullness.

New.
New. New. New. New. NEW!!!

THIS DAY...
Every day...
Today... tomorrow... next month... next year... FOREVERMORE!
ALWAYS, let's acknowledge the Lord!
In our health, wealth, words, deeds...
In our desires, aspires, and travels through earthly fires...
Let's trust His example.
Let's love and listen to His instruction as He reforms the attitude of our minds.
Let's be holy, live holy, and seek Christ's holiness.
Whatever we do, whether in word or deed, let's do it all in the name of JESUS!
Let's LIVE in Christ!
Let's be NEW!!!

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:2-17)

Joyful New Year....  Joyful NEW LIFE, everyone!

XOXOXO!

~Victoria

God bless us, everyone!

the priceless gift of Christmas...

Now Christmas is a season
For joy and merrymaking,
A time for gifts and presents,
For giving and for taking;
A festive, friendly, happy time
When everyone is gay ...
But have we ever really felt
The greatness of the Day?
For through the centuries the world
Has wandered far away
From the beauty and the meaning
Of the Holy Christmas Day.
For Christmas is a heavenly gift
That only God can give,
It's ours just for the asking,
For as long as we shall live.
It can't be bought or bartered,
It can't be won or sold,
It doesn't cost a penny,
And it's worth far more than gold.
It isn't bright and gleaming
For eager eyes to see,
It can't be wrapped in tinsel
Or placed beneath a tree.
It isn't soft and shimmering
For reaching hands to touch,
Or some expensive luxury
You've wanted very much.
For the priceless gift of Christmas
Is meant just for the heart,
And we receive it only
When we become a part
Of the kingdom and the glory
Which is ours to freely take,
For God sent the Holy Christ Child
At Christmas for our sake,
So man might come to know Him
And feel His Presence near
And see the many miracles
Performed while He was here.
And this Priceless Gift of Christmas
Is within the reach of all,
The rich, the poor, the young and old
The greatest and the small.
So take His Priceless Gift of Love,
Reach out and you receive,
And the only payment that God asks,
Is just that you believe.

A Poem by Helen Steiner Rice

luke 1:68-75

“Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them. He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago), salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us - to show mercy to our ancestors and to remember his holy covenant, the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness before him all our days." (Luke 1:68-75)


Blessings! XOXOX!

~Victoria

luke 1:46-55

“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me - holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.” (Luke 1:46-55)

Blessings! XOXOX!

with us

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" - which means, "God with us."

When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. (Matthew 1:18-25)

His name is Jesus and He will save us from our sins!
Our God is with us!

Hallelujah to the King of Kings!

XOX!

~Victoria

luke 1:26-45

In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” (Luke 1:26-45)

Merry Christmas, DW's!
Praise our Lord for He fulfills His promises! Happy Happy Holidays!

matthew 1

This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham:

Abraham was the father of Isaac,
Isaac the father of Jacob,
Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,
Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar,
Perez the father of Hezron,
Hezron the father of Ram,
Ram the father of Amminadab,
Amminadab the father of Nahshon,
Nahshon the father of Salmon,
Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab,
Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth,
Obed the father of Jesse,
and Jesse the father of King David.

David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife,
Solomon the father of Rehoboam,
Rehoboam the father of Abijah,
Abijah the father of Asa,
Asa the father of Jehoshaphat,
Jehoshaphat the father of Jehoram,
Jehoram the father of Uzziah,
Uzziah the father of Jotham,
Jotham the father of Ahaz,
Ahaz the father of Hezekiah,
Hezekiah the father of Manasseh,
Manasseh the father of Amon,
Amon the father of Josiah,
and Josiah the father of Jeconiah and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon.

After the exile to Babylon:
Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel,
Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel,
Zerubbabel the father of Abihud,
Abihud the father of Eliakim,
Eliakim the father of Azor,
Azor the father of Zadok,
Zadok the father of Akim,
Akim the father of Elihud,
Elihud the father of Eleazar,
Eleazar the father of Matthan,
Matthan the father of Jacob,
and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah.

Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah.

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" - which means, "God with us."

When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. (Matthew 1)

Merry Christmas, DW's!
His name is Jesus and He will save us from our sins! Hallelujah to the King of Kings!

God's protecting care is over us.

"Safely covered with His feathers -

Oh, the blest security!

Sheltered from all kinds and weathers,

Covert from the enemy.

In all confidence abiding,

'Neath His strong protecting wings,

Oh, how sweet is such confiding,

While the trustful spirit sings.

Covered? Yes, as He can cover.

Sheltered? Who could shelter thus?

O'er His own His love doth hover -

His, because of Calv'ry's cross.

Covered, trusting, watching ever,

Knowing there is naught to fear,

Sweet the confident assurance,

While His coming draweth near."

(By Helen McDowell)

God bless YOU as you seek His Majesty today!

XOX!

~Victoria

patience and love

Today, Momba and I ran out and about to get through some errands as well as pick up some Christmas gifts for others. It was one of those days where all the sales people and cashiers we encountered were more interested in "chatting it up" rather than actually ringing up our items for sale. We found ourselves engrossed in all sorts of conversations, learning about the lives and holiday traditions of different people and their families.

At one point, my ugly side began to surface... for I had things to do, errands to finish, places to go. I didn't have time to just stand around and chat with every person I came in contact with... Come on! But then the Holy Spirit whispered in my heart, "Why don't you have the time for these people? I love people more than anything... so should you."

When I realized that I was being selfish and impatient, I took a gulp. I had to change MY attitude. For nothing is more important than loving one another... NOTHING!

So, for a few extra minutes, Momba and I were blessed to learn about the lives of a few very sweet people. How wonderful to be offered a small glimpse into the lives of others. Thank you all who we encountered... you made our day!

I wanted to share this with you for the following reason... This holiday season, things may get crazy as we all prepare to meet with friends and families on Thanksgiving and then Christmas. But let us not reserve our excitement and spirit of good cheer only for those in our personal lives. Let us share our patience and love to all we come in contact with... servers, cashiers, attendants, etc. Let's take the time necessary to care for those who clearly need to be cared for. Let's hear the words of those who desperately desire to be heard. Let's be reminded that we were not created to have all things revolve around our life...our agenda. Rather, we were created to give God glory and to love! So, let's remember that every man, woman and child on this planet was made in the image of God, and, because of that honor alone, should be given our respect.

Today, was a great reminder for me to exercise patience and extend love to others - treating them as I would wish to be treated. For only a few extra minutes of my time, I was able to share the love of Jesus this afternoon, rather than bite someone's head off for being overly friendly or a little chattier than most. That's ok... for the Holy Spirit reminded me that there is no errand on my to do list that should win over my attention to simply love a fellow human being. People should always be my first priority!

Today (and every day), let's remember to look at others through the lense of Heaven. LOVE ONE ANOTHER AS CHRIST HAS LOVED YOU! Thank you, Lord, for the reminder!

Also, thank you to those who kindly shared their stories with Momba and I today. "God Bless Us... Everyone!"

XOX!

~Victoria

rejoicing in agreement with the promises of 1 Peter 1:3-9

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade - kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith - of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire - may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

(1 Peter 1:3-9)

Be blessed!

 XOXOXO

~Victoria

ahhhh, Sunday

Ahhhh, Sunday. A day of rest with my Master. A day filled with beautiful sunshine and fresh, crisp fall air. It smells sooo good.

As I write this and enjoy the "nummy" taste of morning, I'm sitting outside on our patio. The carpet roses have not yet bloomed their expected pink buds, but the herb garden is in full swing and smells wonderful. I love Basil most. I love how rapidly it grows and how great it makes everything taste. One of my favorites: tomato, mozzarella, and basil salad with balsamic vinegar. Mmmmm. (Well, I guess we all know what I'll be eating for dinner later. Ha ha.)

A family of birds have taken nest in the ceramic birdhouse I bought on clearance last year. Right now, they are busy coming and going. I assume they are feeding their new babies who chirp every time they return. I really love the sweet songs of these little ones. Simple melodies honoring the Creator. Small moments of my morning turned into full concert events while showcasing little voices filled with big praise for my omniscient King. Hallelujah!

Anyway, heading out soon to start my day, but enjoying the blessings of home first. I love home, and family, and the hope of enjoying God's glory with my eternal family... and Jesus. Yes, Jesus. I love Him most! What a wonderful God we serve. What an extraordinary Savior we claim as our King! There is no other like Him. There is nothing more wonderful than the blessing of His love! So, look around and enjoy His love today, believer. It's everywhere. He is with you always in so many little details and so many big, significant ways. And He never leaves or forsakes. Yes, His love is constant. His presence and promises are forever. Glory! Jesus is Lord! How blessed we truly are!

Happy Sunday, peeps! Let us rejoice and be glad in this magnificent new day! Let us sing about His glory together in full chorus! THIS is indeed the moment to love God with all our heart!!!

Blessings!
Blog Posting Written By Victoria Anderson

weight loss... sharing my daily prayer & resolve as I walk with Jesus to victory

This is the day that I am shrinking. This is the day that I am diminishing. The day that I choose to grow less in volume, less in girth, less in hunger. And yes, I do mean grow less. I choose today to become smaller in person, so that His glory might be seen past this difficult struggle, past my weakness, past all selfish cravings and through this warfare of will.

This is the day where He reigns as my trusted King. King, given center stage with full glory and honor. This is where He increases. Where He is exposed as the more I know Him to be. While I grow less… while I walk closer to His grace-filled throne… while I reach to receive His proven, empowering love rather than romp into old habits of false comfort foods and the unhealthy idols of destructive cuisine, He alone promises me a proven strength that satisfies. His nutritious fruits of love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are sweeter than any gourmet delight. His Way brings true health to my body and nourishment to my bones.

So today, I will trust in the Lord with all my heart and throw off the hinderance of gluttony. Today, let Him increase. Let Him literally trim my fat so that there is no weight to hinder my walk, my obedience, my purpose. Today, I choose to take His yoke upon me and feast at His table. He is my food, my bread, my wine. He is my nourishment, my portion, my fill. Yes, He is my beautiful Savior, Jesus... and He saves! Yes, He does!!!

May my only diet be His grace. May I crave to ingest His NEW so that I might best reflect His image in every way possible. Yes, this is the day that I live for my Master - doing all for the glory of God. Whether eating or drinking or whatever - may it be for His goodness and not for my greed. May He empty my ravenous stomach and clean out my earthly frame so that my heart can be filled. So that my life can be full!

This is the day to rejoice and be glad, to sing and to move, to praise and to dance. This is the day that my faithful Redeemer will remove every stronghold that I lay obediently before His feet… prayerfully… believing He is GOD… believing He is good! This is the day to joyfully share His good news. To display in person just how much my King loves me - enough to save me from myself.

Come, Lord Jesus... let me share in your holiness and be healed to the core of my soul. Let me live purposefully under your discipline so that I might be pleasing to you always. Today, I choose you because I love you more. I love you so much more, precious, holy, healthy Lord.

Therefore… let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. Make level paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed. (Hebrews 12:1b-3; 10b-11)

Blessings!

~Victoria Anderson

He restores my soul... my help comes from the Lord

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters,
He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
In the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD... forever.
(Psalm 23)

Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
(Psalm 121:1-2)

Blessings! XOXOXO!

~Victoria

my birthday wish...

Hi all... want to know my birthday wish?
Click below to find out...  oh, and LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!

~Victoria