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Write 2 The Heart
February 1, 2005
Welcome to your latest issue of Write 2 the Heart.
Please Read!
This past week I had a major error with my mail program. While
trying to help someone change their email settings, my program
was completely deleted. I have worked hard at making sure all of
you dear subscribers addresses were restored. In doing so, I worry
that those of you who had unsubscribed may have been added once
more. If this has happened to you, I do apologize and ask that you
unsusbscribe once more and I will make sure this doesn’t happen
again. Thank you for your patience in this matter.
Blessed by His Provision
By Janet Eckles
I've learned to anticipate this response when I ask for a ride:
"Sure Mom, but I'm a little short in gas money."
Glad to find Jeff, my college student willing to help out. I
commit to contribute to his gasoline fund. I grab his arm and we
proceed out the front door. (Jeff and his brothers learned long ago
the chore of guiding a mom without sight).
"Be careful mom, " he warns opening the car door as it makes a
loud squeal, "be sure to keep your feet back, there are wires
hanging from the dash board," he explains.
"What's hitting the top of my head?" I inquire trying to feel
above me.
"it's the lining of the roof. I need to glue it back on again."
A loud bang startles me, "what was that!" I wanted to know.
"Loose wire on the radio. One firm tap on the dashboard usually
does the trick.”
"Why does your car shake so much when we stop?" Another
silly question from mom.
"It's just the engine, it's having a bad day," he replies with a
matter-of-fact tone.
I fight the temptation to offer a loan for another car. But I
remain silent and hold on to my motto: Tough times experienced,
good character expected.
"Be careful not to lean back too much, my shirts are hanging
there. I just picked them up from the cleaners," he warns.
I ponder on this profound contrast. He placed such care in his
appearance nicely shaven, clean haircut, and impeccably dressed
with stylish clothes. However, this detailed care did not extend to
his mechanically diseased vehicle, which, with each turn of its bald
tires, begged to be laid to rest at the nearest salvage yard.
This drastic contrast in Jeff's world pointed to a significant
comparison to my own life. I too, experienced emotional
malfunction as I faced the rough terrain of adversity: the
devastation of my complete blindness, the agony of losing my
youngest son and most recently, the burden of the loss of my
husband's job.
But although the rest of my world seems to be falling apart, my
commitment to seek God's face remains intact. This is the area in
which I am diligent in maintaining in the best spiritual condition.
My trust in almighty God becomes the one aspect in my life
which remains constant and unwavering. I find in Him the
security that takes me beyond my circumstances and closer to the
shelter of His promises.
Though an accumulation of negative circumstances creates a
desperate need for emotional repair, His promises remain the
constant source of hope and strength. Obedience of His Word
becomes the fuel needed to reach the ultimate destination of peace
and serenity.
Even when this path leading to it might be filled with bumps
and unattractive detours, I feel secure knowing the Lord is in
control. He already knows what's around the next corner.
"…Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by
name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be
with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not
sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be
burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." Isaiah 43:1-2 NIV
Blessed by this reassurance of His provision, I toss fear and
anxiety into the emotional salvage yard.
Jan Eckles
jeckles @ cfl.rr.com
www.janeckles.com
Janet Eckles is an inspirational speaker, author, and Sunday school
teacher. Her new book is titled, Trials of Today, Treasures for
Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life.
You are encouraged to write to the authors to let them know
what you think of their story. Have a comment on today's story?
Send it to: moderator @ write2theheart.com
Military Prayer Reminder
As you read over this list of names, please take a moment to
pray for these young people and their families:
Chris Speir
Tim Speir
Alan
Todd Holland
Graham
William
Julie Sagel
Jessie
Marshal Thompson
Jason
Eric Hernandez
Kristin Danielson
Ryan
Larry Miele
Daniel
Amy
John
Joanne
Gary Boardwine
Josh
Hadassah
Chanz Wackerly
Robert Henderson
David Habighurst
Tonia
Melissa Bair
Matthew Nutter
Nick Nation
Seth Jarrell
Please continue to pray for our country, our leaders, and
our troops at this time. If you have loved ones in the military,
or who are being called to go overseas, send their names
(first and last or first only) to be included in our prayer
reminder.
Thank you to all who have taken a moment to browse our new
bookstore at: http://www.write2theheart.com/html/book_store.html
We have listed wonderful books written, or include stories by
many of our talented writers. You will also find books that aide the
budding writer. I highly recommend “Sally Stuart’s Christian
Writers’ Guide,” and “2005 Writer’s Market.” Both are must haves
for all serious writers. They are great tools to find that perfect
market for your writing.
Cheryl’s Corner
My twelve-year-old niece was born with many health
problems. Each day that she is with us we count as a blessing.
Over a week ago she was rushed to Children’s Hospital in New
Orleans, where she has been ever since.
Friday, my brother called to ask me to drive him down there.
Rebecca had just been rushed to ICU with apparent heart failure.
We hurried through rush hour traffic, rain, and Mardi Gras
parades. New Orleans is no place to try to get through quickly
during Mardi Gras. It can’t be done.
Two by two we were able to go in and visit her. When it was
my turn, I asked her if I could pray for her and she agreed by
nodding slightly. When I finished, I chitchatted about anything I
could think of that would not require asking her a question. After a
few minutes of my talking she turned her face to me and in a
strong, loud voice demanded that I pray again. Gladly!
Today she may return to a private room and we are looking
forward to her returning home. Thank you Lord!
God bless,
Cheryl
Copyright © 2005, Write 2 the Heart
Nothing may be reproduced or published without
the written permission of the individual author or
copyright owner. All rights belong to the authors.
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