B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Gathering Dust

2011-05-03T15:00:00.002-05:00

Sometimes when we are not doing what we dream of doing, discouragement can fall on us like dust.

Today B, the coconut turtle models this so well. Let me tell you girls...B is being real here. Dusty discouragement has been all over her. This morning however, B read a post from her bloggy friend Alene about The Gift of Encouragement. Do you think mayb the Lord led B's little turtle toes to Alene's address? B believes He did.

Here is part of what Alene had to say:
"The challenge for each of us this week is to specifically encourage someone. That person that is on your mind right now, write their name down and then follow-up with encouragement." B immediately knew what she had to do. This turtle girl has been given the gift of encouragement, however she has not been using it lately. So B 'pledged' to the Lord to wipe off the discouraging dust by encouraging a couple of her friends with these.

These necklace pendants are going to b mailed today. This action has removed the discouraging dust on B's shell. Even though you may think she's a nut, it is all about shining for Jesus. Are you a little dusty also? Don't let discouragement settle over you. Use what you have been given. It's enough. (Satan will tell you different but it is more than enough in God's hands.) If you do you will SHINE.

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.
1 Peter 4:10-11

B His Girl

Radio Interview with Luann Prater and Ramona Davis of Encouragement Cafe

2011-03-16T11:17:00.001-05:00

Hi Friends,

Need a little encouragement for the journey...Tomorrow on Our Hiding Place Luann Prater and Ramona Davis from Encouragement Cafe will be our guests. (You may recognize Luann's name as a Proverbs 31 speaker.)

Betty Shoopman and I are going to DRILL them for insight into how the Lord has been working in their life : ) Our inquiring minds and maybe yours want to know:

How God birthed a radio show and Extreme Events?
Do they wear an "I'm available Lord' sign on their heart?
Have they jumped out of their comfort zone into His?
Could God be calling me... aka YOU into something extreme?

Sometimes when we hear someones story of God's work in their life, we see His hand more clearly in our own. I hope you can join us live or listen in the archives to hear how God is connecting ALL of us for His purpose. Here is the link to Our Hiding Place, live on Thursdays at 12:00 Eastern

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2011/03/17/our-hiding-place

Blessings,

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday:Brace Yourself...It's going to b a stretch!

2011-02-22T17:13:00.000-06:00

Sometimes B, the turtle can't see what the Lord is doing in her life.

Ok. Let me b a little more real here. MOST of the time B does not clearly see what the Lord is working on in her life.  Can anyone relate??? But sometimes the Lord sends B a clue, a puzzle piece to give her a glimpse of His work in the construction zone of her heart.

My clue was in a gift Christmas morning from my friend B the Artist. The message was wrapped in the shell of a turtle. The first thing I noticed when I saw B, the dangly leg turtle is her issues with walking. Her feet could not touch the floor. She was grounded AND there was nothing she could do about it.

The reason B's legs caught my eye is because I was looking at my own. I was having issues, much like B's.  My ski accident before Christmas left me in great pain and I could not walk either.  B, the dangly leg turtle and I had a lot in common. We were both grounded in the desert and our parts were not operating correctly.

As the new year began I stayed in hiding, propped on a pillow reading many of your 'word for the year' posts. Most of them sounded encouraging. Some of them sounded almost glamorous. (SOAR) I wondered what word the Lord would give me. I wanted a good word too. The Lord answered my request.

STRETCH TO WALK
Oh. STRETCH TO WALK.  Surely there must b a mistake. My word(s) sounded difficult.  Stretch to walk wasn't in the list of words I was hoping for. It didn't sound exciting like soar. I wondered if I could I draw again.

Fast forward. Today is the 63rd day of the new year. I haven't forgot my word(s). In fact I am in physical training to 'walk' properly every single day. I am learning I have to b intentional if I want to walk again with a normal gait. For 6 to 8 hours a day, I have to lay down and wear this brace. I think God wants to use this time to stretch me. To b honest, I have always known God's plans for me were a stretch.  But I also know He is the author of the HimPossible Dream. And for the record, I am still dreaming that dream. Whether I am walking, soaring, or limping, I have committed to follow Him and finish my race with my eyes on the prize. I guess I will keep stretching until the Great Physician says its time to go forward.

These words apply to you today if you want to do something in life that ONLY God could make possible.

Brace Yourself...It's going to b a stretch . But...you can do it. All things are possible with God.

B His Girl

A Sizzling God Story

2011-01-26T14:44:00.000-06:00

I love to report His stories.!
B His Girl

Small Feet, Big Dreams...A "B" story

2010-12-20T08:20:00.109-06:00

(This post has been sitting on my blog in draft form for over a year. The Lord let me know it was time to share.)

Last year I went to the Blogger's Retreat in Sneads, FL. It was such a blessing, meeting the Sisters of Faith and many bloggy friends for the first time.

After the last session on Friday night, we drove to the campgrounds where we were staying during the event. Since our time together was so limited, Joanne insisted I go to Angie's house to visit with some of the women before I retired to my cabin. I am so glad I did. We talked and laughed until midnight. Breakfast would be at 7:00 the next morning so we decided we better get some shut eye.

Rachel from Beautiful Daughters was my roomie. She was asleep but I was having a difficult time falling asleep in my new surroundings. I checked my phone. It was after 2 AM. I usually drift to sleep every night talking to God but I was wide awake. As I was chatting with the Lord, I thought I felt something on my blanket. I chose to ignore it. A few minutes later the incident was repeated. All of the sudden fast little feet were running over my head and in my hair. Yes, IN MY HAIR!

YIKES! I came UNGLUED!

I jumped out of bed screaming hysterically. Rachel woke up and immediately started asking, "What's wrong? What's wrong?" "A mouse ran over my head" I screamed in a high pitch voice while jumping up and down. Rachel took control of the situation. She threw her pink hoodie over her head and approached the crime scene. Standing in the opposite corner of the room I was amazed at her display of courage. "What are you going to do if you find him?" I asked. Realizing she had no weapon, Rachel reached for the broom and began searching for the mouse.

From the other side of the room the Lord let me see this crazy scenario in a new way. I saw'Cinderella' in her own little corner. Dreaming of what she could b but afraid. The broom, the mice...The message was coming becoming clear. I remembered part of my words written earlier:

He called her to become MORE And now it's time for her to soar
The shoe fits after all
The mice are just His transportation to the ball.

I wrote those words in a comment on Lysa Terkeurst's blog before the retreat . I was trying to win a contest she had to solve her 'mice in the fireplace' problem. All I could see when I read her mouse story was Cinderella. My 'comment/poem', felt so inspired...I just knew I would win cause God gave me those words. (Big smile lol, I didn't) The words were not for Lysa T. in that rustic cabin at 2 in the morning. The words were for me...B. The Lord was replying to my chat. He did not want me drifting off . He was setting my little feet up for the SHOES ,...the kind that make it possible for small feet to walk in Big Dreams. You might say He was sending B transportation.

If you have a dream from God, these shoes are a MUST have.They will take you all the places you are supposed to go.
If you do not know the 'shoe story', please watch this video.)

Today as I write my last post of 2010, it has to b about DREAMS. I am awake to God's dream for my life.

How about you?

Today I am praying for your little feet friends. God has MORE for you too. Take a step. The Lord specializes in little feet and Big Dreams AND best of all... He still uses 'princesses' to tell His story.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: All Calm and Bright?

2010-12-14T15:51:00.003-06:00

Lord, sometimes I get caught up in all the trimmings. I try not to, but you know how I am. I can b a busy b. I could give Martha a run for her money if you know what I mean...(Sorry Lord, of course you know what I mean.You know everything.)

I fill my house with lights that shine

Good smelling candles that glow

I try to bake every yummy recipe I know and pack it in Christmas tins

My list goes on and on Lord.

I try to 'create' a welcoming atmosphere in my home Lord. Forgive me when I offer cheap substitutes to those who live in darkness around me. Help me remember you are with me. I 'house' you, the Light of the World. Help me shine the real thing this Christmas season. Thank you Jesus. Amen

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Hanging On A Word

2010-12-07T14:11:00.000-06:00

B's hanging on a word today. In fact, it is the most significant word the Lord has spoken to B repeatedly in 2010.

BELIEVE (Luke 1:45)

As B the turtle enters the month of December she thinks she is starting to get it.

This question is for you: O Christmas branches...What are you hanging on to?

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Heads Up! He's searching...

2010-11-16T11:14:00.003-06:00

2 Chron 16:9

For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.

Will He see you today?

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: A Prophetic Picture Pattern

2010-11-02T11:03:00.015-05:00

B, the circle turtle traveled from Honduras with this pattern on her back. A shell with seven circles. How perfect!
The pattern was hidden from B's eyes but she knew the Lord could see everything.

He sits HIGH and looks low.

A couple of months ago the Lord began talking to B about circles. B's thought went round and round trying to figure out what He meant. ( Sometimes she is a little slow. ) The Lord told B He was connecting circles. B still didn't get it.

B shared the Lord's words with a friend in her blog circle... The Lord is connecting circles. Her friend said "like the pattern in a wedding quilt." B caught her breath. She knew those words were significant. In fact, she could not stop thinking about them. The next day B stopped by a garage sale and saw this: A wedding quilt.

B was stunned at the Lord's timing. This is the pattern He is working on. Connecting circles from near and far. There is a wedding planned. The connected circles are a gift before the BIG DAY!

B a connector and invite others into the circle...the circle of life.

John 14:6
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Strike A Pose

2010-10-26T09:22:00.019-05:00

Today
Regardless of what you see...
No matter how you feel...
The Lord is in control.
He's working AND He is good.

So strike a pose like B, the headstand turtle.

She is choosing to trust the Lord regardless of her current circumstances. This move has put her in a new position. You might even say it's uplifting one. Today B shares her posing thoughts with you. She wants you to b on higher ground also.

Stop whatever you are doing.
Look up... Give the Lord a smile:)
He loves you. JOY!
He sees you. JOY!
His ears have heard your cry. JOY !
He knows everything and He is not overwhelmed with what to do! JOY!
He has a plan. JOY!
He is faithful. JOY!
He is with you. JOY!
Oh radiant bride, strike a pose! Heaven is preparing for a wedding. You are invited! JOY!
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Rom 15:13

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: A ''Dressed' Fieldstone

2010-10-12T16:19:00.011-05:00

B, the field stone wasn't sure what she was supposed to say this morning, so she waited.

This afternoon the message came in clear with the sound of a beep-beep-beep. It was a text from B's bloggy friend Angie or mayb I should say a 'wake up' call. I knew she had a word for me. Sparks fly when she speaks. Angie said "God is calling us to 'get dressed' for the occasion just ahead." B immediately saw a picture of herself as she read the text...the one you are looking at today...B, the dressed fieldstone. Then the Lord brought these words to B's mind.

LOOK AT THE FIELDS...
(fields, of course, B's a field stone , I get that Lord )

B immediately searched for the verse in her Bible. She saw what the Lord was saying. She also knew the Lord wanted you to see .

B's eyes are closed .

R yours?

I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. Thus the saying 'One sows and another reaps' is true. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor."
John4:35-36

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Feeling small?

2010-10-05T15:26:00.016-05:00

To all who really want to b more for the Lord, the formula is simple...but it is easier said than done.

(Warning: Distractions have your number listed on speed dial. )
Prov 4:21-22
Keep my message in plain view at all times.
Concentrate! Learn it by heart!
Those who discover these words live, really live;
body and soul, they're bursting with health.
(from THE MESSAGE)
B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: The Missing B

2010-09-28T11:57:00.010-05:00

Ok. It's time to talk.
Many of you have written B emails, comments, and prayers saying you were missing B. Thank you so much. I have definitely been as they say in the military AWOL. Absent Without Official Leave from my posts.

Mayb you can relate to the thought of being AWOL today too...just in a different way. Here is a question for you.

Are YOU doing what God has called YOU to do during your time of service? (pause)

Sometimes we go AWOL in our walk with the Lord or at the very least get distracted by the things of this world. I know B does. Recently God spotted B, the missing turtle hiding out in Costco. She wasn't looking for a message. She was enjoying the taste tests! However the Lord had a simple but profound statement He wanted her to chew on as she paused to open Max Lucado's new book, Out Live Your Life.

The Lord wasn't finished with His message to B. Within the hour He had a 'Home Goods' picture of the look He was going for in B's life.

Unshelled and Missing...

Col 3:1-4 (The Message)

3 So if you're serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. 2 Don't shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ — that's where the action is. See things from his perspective.

3 Your old life is dead. Your new life, which is your real life — even though invisible to spectators — is with Christ in God. He is your life. 4 When Christ (your real life, remember) shows up again on this earth, you'll show up, too — the real you, the glorious you. Meanwhile, be content with obscurity, like Christ.

B unshelled and missing.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: To All The Travelers

2010-08-24T08:57:00.013-05:00

Meet B, the turtle traveler.
She may be walking on dry ground today but the Lord has flooded her heart with these words from Steven Curtis Chapman's song:

"Keep looking ahead
Let your heart not forget
We are not home yet! "
B finds it interesting the song's first words are "To ALL the travelers". Not a message for some travelers but ALL. At times ALL of us will find ourselves discouraged and weary from the journey. Sometimes we need to b reminded THIS IS NOT IT. God did that for B this week through this song. B, the turtle traveler has a race to finish. So do you.
Praise b to the Rock. He is traveling with us on the dusty road. We are not alone.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: The Desert View

2010-06-27T22:13:00.024-05:00

(This post proves the turtle girl is not crazy! I could not put this together ya'll.) Only God.

The moment left me speechless...

Absolutely awe struck! God sent me a message via turtle delivery. The fact it was sent through a reptile makes it no less spiritual. It makes me cry just thinking about it. Not only are the Lord's ways not ours, they are simply profound. If you missed this Turtle Turtle's post, catch up on Part 1 of the story. 'The Desert View' below is the rest of the story .

The Desert View

For months I have known I was moving to the desert. It has been both exciting and sad, often at the same time. To b honest, I heard of 'desert times' in our walk with God but I never expected to actually 'live' in the desert. To say God threw me a curve ball is an understatement. Nevertheless that is where I am.

One way I prepared for our move is to throw myself in the hunt for a new house. I learned so much about the area on the multiple listing service. After looking at houses over the Internet for months, I came up with a 'wish' list for our new house. Of course I had my thoughts on the size, number of bedrooms, and style but there was one thing that was a must have for me.

A Desert View.

I wanted to see mountains, saguaro cactus, desert brush coloring the landscape, and little desert creatures in their natural environment from my backyard. If a house had concrete block fencing on all three sides of the yard, I would mark it off the list. In Arizona, some lots have wrought iron fencing along the back of the property. They call it view fencing. This was what I wanted.
Obviously the Lord was present as I looked at countless houses over the Internet. He knew what I was looking for so He sent a turtle to open my eyes to the view He had on His wish list.

Look at B, the turtle in the corner. She is looking into a concrete block wall. When I uploaded this photo I heard these words:

"How's the view, B?", the Lord whispered.

The Lord wanted me to understand my 'time out' in the desert was ALL ABOUT A VIEW. Not of cactus and critters but of HIM. Today June 29, 2010 the TGIF devotional on Crosswalk,com had this to say: "The desert holds a special place in God's Word. The Scriptures portray the desert as a place of inspiration and exaltation - a place where people met God in a powerful new way." Two minutes after I read this devotional a friend emailed it to me.

I am in the desert to get a new view of God. This move is an answer to prayer. I have asked to know Him in a deeper way.

If you are in a 'desert' of sorts insist on 'view fencing'. Accept no less. God has MORE for you than you can ask or imagine. (Tears are stinging my eyes as I type this. This is a word for someone reading this. Receive it and keep the faith)

Many blessing to you,

B His Girl

Side Note: As if it wasn't enough to know the Lord's plans of a better view of Him in the desert, He also gave me a view in the natural. The photo above is part of my new yard with a view of mountains, cactus, and the desert brush I wanted. Critter pics coming soon!

Turtle Tuesday: Time Out

2010-06-15T06:12:00.017-05:00

Hi Friends,

Today I thought I'd share a 'real picture' of B. This photo was not staged. B's little feet tracked here all by herself.

Meet B, the turtle in the corner.

Less than two weeks before this photo was taken I spoke at a women's retreat. The stage was set with props to create the visual of a corner in a room. A chair was placed in the corner. My talk referenced my first encounter with God. I thought the Lord would put me in the corner. Kind of like a time out. A spiritual 'time out' for how I had lived my life. Here is what the Lord had to say about 'my thoughts' on the matter.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts,neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. Isa 55:8

I didn't have a clue how God worked. He didn't want me hiding out in the corner. He wanted to use my life.

Maybe this photo today is just a coincidence if you believe in coincidences or maybe God is using this turtle as a prop. As I uploaded this photo to blogger with another story in mind, the Lord interrupted with this thought. His thought...delivered His way.

HOW'S THE VIEW B?
*Note to self and friends: Where are you?

Have you put yourself somewhere you are not supposed to b?
Get out of the corner and fight the good fight of faith.
B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Parts is Parts

2010-05-04T08:03:00.009-05:00

Ever dreamed of having it all together?

Today B admits she wishes that described her. You can tell from her photo it doesn't. B has not officially shared what is going on in her world but today's the day.

Meet B, the parts turtle. She is everything you see.
Very nutty with a few loose screws!

Why? B's moving. Notice the staff in her hand.

B is going to the desert. Phoenix, the Valley of the Sun/Son. Like her blog friend Elaine, she's praying for Peace For The Journey. B has been pondering what this move is all about. In the Bible the words led and fled come to mind when B thinks of the desert. B knows the Lord is leading her there. This verse will not leave her alone.

Hos 2:14-15
"Therefore I am now going to allure her;I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her. There I will give her back her vineyards,and will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.There she will sing as in the days of her youth,as in the day she came up out of Egypt.

B, the parts turtle may not have it all together but she is okay with her turtle self. After all, parts is just parts. If a trip to the desert is needed for B to complete her mission on earth, so b it. Like the ancients, B is longing for a better country anyway-a heavenly one!

Stay tuned. B thinks the choir is warming up... Here comes the Son!

B His Girl

Got Fruit?

2010-04-20T19:41:00.012-05:00

(Turtle Tuesday is on the post below)

Have you heard B and T (Tea With Tiffany) have a radio show?

Crazy huh!

Almost three years ago on the drive home from a prayer conference in Nashville the Lord let me know I was going to do radio. Since I was driving when He spoke those words to me I had my friend B the Artist record them in my journal. Two weeks later, a woman I do not know very well told me she could 'see me' on radio. She had no idea she was confirming the words I heard.

I will add this as a side note to my story. The drive to and from Nashville was 16 hours of praying and talking about the Lord. That conversation never got old. The Lord made Himself known to us throughout the trip. I write this as a reminder to you and to me about hearing the voice of the Lord. If we set our hearts on Him and seek His face, we will hear from Him. He will show up just like He did for the two on the road to Emmaus.(Luke 24)

What God said has come to pass ya'll. (Had to throw my southern voice in) Not like I thought it would look. Better. What a blessing it is to step out into new territory with a bloggy friend and true turtle girl! Tiffany and I have our show on Wednesdays at 12:00 Eastern time. Join us on Our Hiding Place hosted by ChristianWomenAffiliate.com. Call in/Listen. Our show this week is 'Got Fruit?' You can also listen to the archives. If you have anything in your life and ministry that might fit into a show, let us know. We want to have some bloggy guests on our show. After all, it's on Blog Talk Radio.

Another side note: If the Lord has spoken something to you that has not manifest itself, it will come to b in His time. He is Faithful and True. B encouraged.
Eph 3:20
God can do anything, you know — far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. (from THE MESSAGE)

Walking by Faith with all of you,

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: The Well and Tell

2010-04-20T07:30:00.007-05:00

One morning B, the artist and I were praying in my family room. Bandit, my dog, the furry b in my household was in the kitchen evidently unaware of the holy moment we were experiencing. He was at his bowl gulping water like he was in a race to finish. You would have thought he hadn't had water for days.

I tried not to b distracted by his noises but I was. My thoughts in prayer drifted to his thirst level. You could hear it, see it, and feel it. Anyone who walked by his path would experience some of the furry b's overflow dripping from his jowls.

All that noise brought me to a quiet place. It made me think about me, B, the turtle at the well.

Do I open my Bible with GREAT thirst for living water to fill my b'ing?

Am I EXPECTING to encounter Jesus at the well?

Is He WAITING for me to meet HIM there TODAY? ( I heard a yes.)
The Lord is waiting for you at His deep well. If you call on His name He will tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know. And you will leave the well changed, refreshed, and with something to say.
Go Tell what you hear at the Well. Your 'Village' is dying of thirst.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: For You Lord

2010-03-22T21:56:00.014-05:00

This morning the Lord stopped B the turtle in her tracks as she planned her Turtle Tuesday post.

He didn't want her post to b about Him. B does that all the time. This post was to b for Him. A post Holy unto the Lord.

This picture is for you Lord.

God said, "Look, here is a place right beside me. Put yourself on this rock. When my Glory passes by, I'll put you in the cleft of the rock and cover you with my hand until I've passed by. Then I'll take my hand away and you'll see my back. Ex 33:21-23(from THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language © 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson. All rights reserved.)

Thank you Lord for revealing yourself to me in the desert. You are my firm foundation. Thank you for remembering me. I want to sing your song. I love you.

B His Girl
(No comments necessary today except His. May you feel the Lord's smile on you. Blessings, B)

If The Shoe Fits

2010-03-15T20:58:00.024-05:00

What kind of shoes are you wearing today?
If you have trouble viewing this video on my blog, click on this youtube link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GvsNkGCk1A&feature=player_embedded#

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Cup Overfloweth Blog

2010-03-09T15:06:00.010-06:00

Last week B, the blogging turtle received an award that shocked her. She was listed as a Cup Overfloweth Blog on the 2009 Internet Cafe list. It said these words about the ten blogs listed in that category:

This is a woman who is following hard after Him. Her words, her heart and her passion for her Savior is evident with every click of the mouse. She inspires you to have a closer relationship with Him.

As B, the blogging turtle took a moment to consider these words she felt a holy hush come over her. It brought tears to her eyes.

Who would have ever thought B would b a blogging turtle girl for the Lord?

Not her for sure. Less than ten years ago, B had nothing to say about the Lord.

Absolutely nothing.

Her heart, passions, desires, and mouse were not connected to Jesus. B was running hard with the world.

What a difference a day can make!

B wants to thank God for the grace and mercy He has poured on her life. It truly is more than she can contain. Tomorrow on Blog Talk Radio sponsored by Christian Women Affiliate, Tiffany Stuart and I will share some our testimony about the day that changed our lives. The day we started running with Jesus. I hope you will join us at 12:00 eastern on Our Hiding Place.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Beginning with T

2010-03-02T07:00:00.009-06:00

Today B, the turtle wants to know how YOU react to 'new beginnings' in your walk with the Lord.

The 'beginnings' B has in mind are the totally unexpected ones. The kind that leave you speechless when they are revealed. If you haven't experienced a moment like this, B thinks she can safely say... it's coming. God will throw you a curve. How do you react when the pitch He throws is out of your comfort zone?

Do you step into 'the beginning' with excitement? Close your eyes in nervous anticipation? Or shrink back into your shell in fear?

As you can see B, the turtle is taking a step with her eyes closed today. This is a step of faith with her friend T, also know as Tea with Tiffany. Tomorrow B and T begin their blog talk radio show, Our Hiding Place. I hope you will stop by and see what God has for us and you in the curve. It's always an adventure following Jesus!

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Marking Time

2010-02-16T07:00:00.003-06:00

This week a friend shared with B the 'take away lesson' her son learned at a Christian youth conference a few weeks ago.

Time is a gift.

B, the turtle stamp has been pondering that lesson.

B realizes that no matter how small she may b, she still leaves a mark during her time on this earth. Today B is going to use her time wisely. She is going to give it ALL she has to honor her God and King.

Blessed are the people who know the passwords of praise, who shout on parade in the bright presence of God. Delighted, they dance all day long; they know who you are, what you do — they can't keep it quiet! Your vibrant beauty has gotten inside us — you've been so good to us! We're walking on air! Ps 89:15-17(from THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language © 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson. All rights reserved.)

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Today

2010-02-09T09:36:00.004-06:00

Please pray for the BB's ministering in the Village this morning. See More of B on Turtle Tuesday this afternoon.
B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: Out to See

2010-02-02T17:00:00.001-06:00

B the turtle is changing her name today. It requires lowering her position in the alphabet. To go from a B to a C. B seriously wants/needs to lower herself because...

B wants to C More. Get the picture?
Sea More, See More, or C More

No matter how you spell it, that is the cry of B's heart.

You see, B the turtle KNOWS when you 'see more' you don't want to walk in the world's ways. You'll find yourself crossing seas no one else thought possible. Just ask Moses.

By an act of faith, he turned his heel on Egypt, indifferent to the king's blind rage. He had his eye on the One no eye can see, and kept right on going. ( Heb 11:27-28 from THE MESSAGE)

Moses was a 'see more' kind of guy. I like that. If you want to C More, You have to B.... More first. Hang out with the King of Kings. Let Him open your eyes to who He Is.
C More, the turtle. It has a nice ring to it. Don't you think?

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Flying Lessons

2010-01-19T08:00:00.005-06:00

Welcome to Turtle Tuesday! Don't worry. B's not really on her soap box today. This is a SIGN. A sign of what God wants to do with all of us.

Meet B, the turtle dove.

In November, B was sitting in her church's Bible study, The Inheritance by Beth Moore. B and her friend B, the artist affectionately call Beth the 'Big B'. During the first session, God nudged the little b to ask the 'Big B' to b a part of what He was doing in the Village. B obeyed. She wrote Beth a letter sharing God's vision for the low income housing project known as the Village.

To color His world

Bring light into the darkness.

Living Proof Ministries said yes to our request. The BB's are now going weekly to the Village leading the Inheritance Bible Study. The ladies are loving it! We call our gatherings with the women 'Flying Lessons.'

Did you know when you get enough of the WORD in you, YOU CAN FLY?

Last week B shared two bars of Dove soap with each woman. One bar was a gift to them and the other was for sharing. It gave them an opportunity to spread the Lord's touch in their Village. The Dove bars carried this message written on the box.
Isa 40:31 those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.They will soar on wings like eagles;they will run and not grow weary,they will walk and not be faint. Isa 40:31

If you want to fly, check with The Strong Tower above. B did. The runway has been cleared. It's time to fly. B's off for "Moore" flying lessons today. She can already feel the wind in her feathers and the sun on her shell.

Yes Julie, turtles can fly!

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Words for 2010

2010-01-05T07:00:00.002-06:00

Meet B, the New Year's turtle. (Her eyes are still red from staying up past midnight! )

B noticed many of you have chosen a 'word' for 2010. Not to b outdone, B, the New Year's turtle has a whole sentence to share. smiles

This dropped from above as B pondered the New Year.

How many people can you touch?

These words immediately directed B's thoughts off her turtle self to the world around her! The Lord was asking B to consider OTHERS. He wanted her red eyes to b focused on His purpose. B is thankful the Lord wants her to see clearly. Nothing like a drop of 'spiritual Visine' to kick off 2010! B, the New Year's turtle is on the lookout for people crossing her path. Who can she help, love, encourage, and reach out to with His touch TODAY? Not tomorrow. Today. B's looking up for direction. I pray this year you and B will not miss all the todays given to us.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus. Phil 2: 3-5

B His Girl
P.S. Turtles Can Fly

Turtle Tuesday: On A Limb

2009-12-22T08:09:00.008-06:00

Meet B, the crystal turtle. She is hanging out on the family tree. Her mission is to reflect light in season and out of season. Today she shares a couple of verses the Lord has 'highlighted' for her.

"Arise, shine, for your light has come,and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples,but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you.
Isa 60:1-2

B the branch you were created to b. Color His world.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: B and Friends

2009-12-07T23:21:00.002-06:00

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Stuffed with Love

2009-11-24T09:00:00.000-06:00

Meet B, the Pocket Turtle.

Her message is very simple today.

God Cares.

He cares about EVERYTHING in your life. There is nothing too big or small for Him to handle.

Tuck a prayer in your pocket today. Mark it with love. He cares for you!
B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Meet Him At the Table

2009-11-11T10:00:00.006-06:00

B, the turtle table is stretched out today. Her thoughts are set on feasting at the Lord's table. His goodness is MORE than she can contain. Her cups overflows. Check out the watermark the Lord has left on B.

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. PS 23:5-6

The Lord has marked our place at His table with love. Taste and see that the Lord is good.

B His Girl

PS sorry for b'ing a day late.

Turtle Tuesday: Tea for Two

2009-11-03T07:00:00.001-06:00

Months ago I received these two cute turtles in the mail. I decided to save them until I met the bloggy friend who sent them.

Meet Tiffany, the tea light turtle. God has connected her to B in a beautiful way. We share the same light source. I was so excited to meet her in person at the Blogger's Retreat in FL a couple of weeks ago.

She is everything you might imagine if you read her blog. Creative, actually VERY creative, fun, sweet, and she glows! Tiffany, the tea light turtle and B have some thoughts about doing some things in ministry together. I believe God had that in mind when this pair of turtles were made.

Thank you God for connecting us. B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Out of the Box!!!!!!

2009-10-20T06:00:00.009-05:00

Last Tuesday, the Lord gave B, the turtle girl this message.

COLOR MY WORLD.

My friend B, the artist aka Betty Shoopman also received the same message apart from me and recorded it in her journal. God has the BB's on the same page. We are supposed to color together: ) Today on Turtle Tuesday Betty shares her sketch of what God has called the BB's to do in the world.

See the before and after pictures below.

You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. 15 If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand. 16 Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand — shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. Matt 5:14-16

Where in the world do you need to break open the box and color?
B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: SeeSaw Faith

2009-10-13T05:00:00.005-05:00

Meet B, the 'see' turtle.
She is not sure what she sees right now. There are some weeds in her way. B is off to speak this morning . She thinks God is going to show her something to report on later.
Isn't B looking like she is from 'Serious/sirius' today!
I'll b back.

B His Girl

I'm back from my adventure this morning. To b perfectly honest with you, I am hesitant to report on what I saw today. It's just a little too much. I'm overwhelmed. He did show me something as I expected and He also reminded me of His incredible sense of humor. Any guesses on what I saw today?
B, the 'see' turtle... saw a turtle crossing the road on the way to her speaking engagement. To see a turtle on a Tuesday is special when you're a turtle girl. You know it was ordered in your path. This is not the first time this has happened to B. I think the Lord was poking me this morning. B was looking all serious, as she prepared to speak and the Lord wanted B to smile. The heaviness the enemy tries to throw on B every single day fell as she understood the Lord's humor.

B, the 'see' turtle knows the journey she is on is ordered, even though at times all she sees is weeds. B encouraged today even if you can't see a thing. He's there. Remember Moses and his journey reported in Hebrews 11. He persevered because he saw him who is invisible. Keep the faith. It will b rewarded.

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord,And He delights in his way.
Ps 37:23

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: How Great Thou Art

2009-09-22T08:30:00.001-05:00

B, the clay turtle dishes up a word for all who want to serve the Lord and not man.

Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing. 2 Tim 2:21

You are shaped for His purpose. Let the Lord use you today.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: MORE THAN YOU CAN SEE

2009-09-15T15:00:00.001-05:00

You were probably expecting to see B, the turtle today. Unfortunately B's main computer is with the geek squad for the next 3 to 5 days . I had not planned to post today because I did not have any pictures on this old computer for Turtle Tuesday. But God had a plan for B. He always does. I LOVE this about the Lord. He knew my dilemma. He had a picture for me. This is the what I saw this morning as I drove Justin to school.

A rainbow and a real turtle crossing the road.

I knew in my heart the message for all of us on Turtle Tuesday.
The Lord's promises are true. He is faithful to what He says. Keep walking by faith even though you can't see where you are headed. It is about who you are following. You will make it to the other side.

May God give you strength for the journey. He loves you!
B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: Out of the Box!

2009-09-08T09:00:00.003-05:00

Meet B, the messenger turtle. She is not a big part of the story today. Actually she never is: ) She is truly just a reporter, sharing the things she has seen and heard from God. B felt compelled to share this good news story with you.

Four homeless men came to our worship service at Flounders Restaurant on Pensacola Beach Sunday. The problem was they arrived a tad late. They overslept and the service had already ended. I recognized one of them immediately as he removed his sunglasses. Sean had attended our services earlier in the summer. Several people offered them water and snacks. I decided to stop what I was doing and visit with them.

While we were talking, an image of this shoe box flashed across my mind. My friend Laura had given me a brand new pair of running shoes to share with someone in need. I had passed out lots of school clothes in the Village a few weeks ago where I serve, but I held on to this box. I felt these shoes were supposed to go to someone homeless. I inquired about their shoe sizes. Sean was the 'Cinderella' in this story. The shoes would fit him!

When I returned from my car with the shoe box in hand, Sean and his friend were at a table crying. "What's wrong?" I asked. They had a story to tell B. Sean had thrown away his old worn out tennis shoes before they came to our worship service. These homeless men realized God wasted no time providing new shoes for him. I was floored hearing this and so were they. B'ing a good reporter, I realized there was MORE to this shoe story.

"Sean " I stated, "God is after you! You better let Him catch you, because you can't outrun Him!" He hugged me with tears stinging his eyes. You see, Sean did not really miss the message by b'ing late on Sunday. God spoke to him 'out of the box'. Sean knew it too. I believe the Lord was smiling the whole time. God gave Sean some running shoes in case he wants to run from His plans for his life, knowing they will never be fast enough. God has not finished His story with Sean. I pray one day B, the messenger turtle can share the rest of his story.

Sean's story reminds me of this truth. We can run but we cannot hide! He sees and knows ALL.

God, investigate my life; get all the facts
firsthand. I'm an open book to
you;even from a distance, you know what I'm
thinking. You know when I leave
and when I get back;I'm never out of your
sight. You know everything I'm
going to say before I start the first
sentence. I look behind me and you're
there,then up ahead and you're
there, too — your reassuring presence, coming
and going. This is too much,
too wonderful — I can't take it all in! Is
there anyplace I can go to
avoid your Spirit?to be out of your sight? If I
climb to the sky, you're
there!If I go underground, you're there! If I flew
on morning's wings to
the far western horizon, You'd find me in a minute —
you're already there
waiting! (from THE MESSAGE) Psalm 139 1-10

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: Just One

2009-08-25T12:50:00.001-05:00

God gave B, the checkbook turtle ONE word for today:

BALANCE........

but she keeps trying to add to it.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Are you from Sirius?

2009-08-18T11:11:00.000-05:00

If you think B, the turtle is clowning around on Turtle Tuesday, keep reading. Things are not always as they appear. Today B shares part of a funny story God used to speak to her. Actually it wasn't funny at the time. It was serious. Very serious.

B was working in the world when she made a stop at a stranger's house. She noticed the older man with the Einstein like gray hair sitting outside in his lawn chair immediately. At first glance, she thought he was taking a nap. The moment her foot touched his driveway, his eyes popped open . B only needed to ask him a question and she would b on her way. This man clearly had other ideas. He wanted to talk to B more. She was trying to be nice but she felt uncomfortable as he rose from his chair. He began walking toward her as he gazed into her eyes. He was invading her comfort zone big time! The man told B he had been time traveling. ( Yes, he said time traveling. )B didn't know how to respond to his comment but she was getting a clearer picture of the situation she had walked upon. With her hair sticking straight up on her neck, just like it did when she saw Anthony Hopkins in Silence of the Lambs, B wanted to hide! The man said "Can I ask you a question?" B nodded her head as she kept backing up trying to keep some distance between them. "Are you from Sirius?" he asked . B's voice shook as she answered "No". Then he began talking about B's white, snake like teeth. He knew she must be from Sirius. B freaked out. She bolted from his driveway and recovered from her 'encounter' in her locked car.

This man had some mental issues B was not prepared to handle. She was thankful it all ended well and prayed for him. His intention was not to harm B. After the initial scare, she began to see the humor in it. She does have a couple of sharp pointed teeth. (B looking for them in an upcoming video: ) To add to his case about her b'ing from Sirius... her name means 'alien'. There is also a star called Sirius B. And to take this thought further, this turtle is also called to let her light shine before men. Mayb he could see more than she realized. Hmmm. Mayb he wasn't as off the mark as she thought.

B was sharing her 'from Sirius' story with a friend. It is funny now, but a strange thing happened one day while B was pondering this story. God invaded B's space. He came close to her and whispered, "Are you from serious B?" B immediately knew what the Lord was asking her. You see, B, the turtle, is called to be 'out there' shinning her light in a dark world. The only way she can B what she is called to b is to focus. She needs to draw closer to Jesus and fix her gaze on Him. The Lord is serious about His call on her life. She can't run away and lock herself in her shell. She has prayed about what God wants her to do.

B answered, " I'm from serious Lord." B, the turtle girl, is serious.

Today, the Lord wants you to ponder this question in His call to follow Him.

Are you from serious too?

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: A New Thing

2009-08-11T07:00:00.002-05:00

Have you ever felt bored with things that once excited you? Tired of the same ole' thing...B is there NOW!

Meet B, the 'in a rut' turtle. B confessed on the B log a few weeks ago she lost her groove thing. She tried to shake it but her old groove is not working anymore. B has been pondering and praying about this for most of the summer. Now she wonders if this is part of a Master plan to move a turtle like B to a new place. A new thing. Sometimes you have to throw off some things, even good things to go to the place you have been called.

Mayb the Lord wanted to let B's groove thing start feeling like a rut.

Whatever the Lord is doing, it's working. B is shifting her position. She is throwing off some old stuff. There is 'Something New' coming. God stirred her heart Sunday in a big way! B told someone this yesterday and they got the shivers! God Bumps! In fact, B shared this today because she thinks she is not traveling alone in her rut. Mayb you have been walking in the same pattern as B. Nobody else may see your ruts, but you know inside you have settled for less when you have been called to MORE. I know I keep saying MORE. Those are the words I keep hearing. MORE, MORE, MORE!
B's prayer:
Lord, please don't let us settle in comfortable places, travel familiar roads. We have not been called to run in a 'rut race.' You are moving in an incredible way all around us. Help us not get stuck in our successes or our failures. We want to b stuck on you and you alone. Let us hear your words to us today.

Isa 43:19 Be alert, be present. I'm about to do something brand-new.It's bursting out! Don't you see it?There it is! I'm making a road through the desert,rivers in the badlands. (from THE MESSAGE)

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: The Dog Days

2009-08-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

Has Turtle Tuesdays gone to the dogs? Officially yes. We are in 'the dog days of summer' but B, the iron turtle prays it ain't so, at least on the inside: )

Did you know that 'dog days' can refer to a period that is stagnant, dull and not one of marked progress?
It may b the 'dog days' of summer outside but it doesn't have to b like that inside your shell.

So what's a turtle to do if she or he finds himself in the 'dog days' spiritually? B, the iron turtle, has some wisdom from the Proverbs to pass on to you.

As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Prov
27:17

Are you content in your walk with the Lord or do you long for MORE? B wants MORE. If you want to b a sharp instrument in the Lord's hands your diet must include iron. Don't skip the essentials.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: B sends flowers!

2009-07-28T07:00:00.001-05:00

Meet B, the flower turtle. She apologizes for being bloggy absent last Tuesday. B made a special Turtle Tuesday video for you. In fact, she spent hours trying to get it on her B log. B is experiencing great opposition trying to say what she has to say in all kind of ways. It is keeping her grounded though....on her knees more. That's always a good thing!

B is seeing the benefits in this opposition. Normally she retreats from it. The Lord is stretching her right now. B is trying not to shrink back from all of this faith exercising. B knows that without faith it is impossible to please God.

How is God working in your life? Have you faced opposition lately? How did you handle it? Please share if you have time. I will b away this week again. I hope to connect and share more with you soon.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: Getting Your Groove Back

2009-07-14T08:00:00.001-05:00

Have you ever felt 'out of sorts'?

Most of us have been there at some point in our life. B'ing 'out of sorts' is the place where you are not acting like your 'normal' self. If we linger there, people close to us usually notice, asking questions like, "What's wrong? Are you okay?" We often dodge answering those questions because sometimes there is no clear cut answers. We have lost our groove and we never saw it coming. That's a picture of this turtle today.

Meet B, the bloggy quiet turtle. She's off today, definitely out of sorts in her Turtle Tuesday post. Mayb that's a good thing though. B'ing groove less has led B to seek MORE. The Lord knows what's up with B, the turtle and you. If you have lost your groove thing too consider the possibility this is an unexpected blessing.

Mayb losing our groove pushes us closer to walking in His groove for our life.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: The Padded Box

2009-06-30T11:00:00.007-05:00

If you are a frequent visitor to my blog, you know I'm truly a turtle girl: ) All you have to do is scroll through my posts and see a sampling of Tuesdays to get the picture. I have more turtles in my collection than I can count. (Not really, but close) What you don't know though is I rarely buy turtles. Most of my turtles have been given to me and today is no exception.
Meet B, the gifted turtle.

My daughter Megan's BFF, Lauren(left) gave me this turtle Sunday. She purchased it on vacation in Greece. I was touched to tears when she gave it to me. I immediately knew this turtle contained an important message that traveled around the world to reach me. As I gazed at B, the gifted turtle, I noticed the message was sent not in a bottle but in a box!

I couldn't decide how to display B in my collection. She looked so comfy in her padded box. It even matched her shell. I also loved the outside color of her box. Red. (Everyone needs a splash of red in their life!) My dilemma: Should I leave B in the box or take her out? As I pondered the thought, the message became clear. B, the gifted turtle's container reminded me of a word I received in a sermon by John Ortberg months ago "It all goes back in the Box!" The message was about life. When the game of LIFE is over...it all goes back in the box. B's box started looking like a coffin to her. B, the gifted turtle didn't belong in the box yet. She was alive. She had no business hanging out in comfortable places. B has places to go, people to share God's love with. She was not supposed to b in a box. This message was clearly from her bff. Jesus. It was like He was saying, 'Hellooooo turtle girl...what are you doing????'

B's life is about walking by faith. She is supposed to b 'out there' in the world bringing light to dark places. You are too! We can't go forward if we live in a box. It restricts us and limits our impact on the world. Sometimes we don't even realize we are stuck because our box has padding. It may even look pretty, like something out of a magazine. It can b comfy and cozy like a cocoon, but it is also mundane and boring. It is LESS than what's planned for our life. The Lord always tells this turtle girl to ..."B MORE." Look at this photo I found on my computer screen a couple of weeks ago left by my son who plays basketball. William had no idea what this photo would mean to me. I printed it to put in my God Calling devotional. The caption said 'Barton continues to shine.' I think B'ing More is about shining my light.

B remembered what the Lord said to Joshua when he became a leader. "I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses." The same ground applies to us when we walk by faith. Every place we set our feet. That means we have to b moving. There is MORE ahead if we press on. The Lord also told Joshua to 'Be strong and courageous' three times before he started walking in the Promise Land. (Sometimes we need to hear a word several times before it sinks in. Thank you Lord for repeating yourself.)

B, the gifted turtle is not to store up treasures for herself. She can't take them with her upon her exit from this world. She is supposed to open up and share. B is a gifted turtle for a reason.

My dilemma has been solved. B, the gifted turtle is now on display 'out of the box' . Her box has been put away for a day unknown to her. Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" John 11:25-26

B believes.

B His Girl
PS. A note to the graduates: God has great things in store for your lives. He has places for you both to go. Stay 'out of the box' and walk by faith. There really is MORE ahead, more than you can ask or imagine. Love you!

Turtle Tuesdays: Closed

2009-06-23T18:18:00.002-05:00

Sorry to post so late. Turtle Tuesday is officially closed today. B just peeked in to let you know she's on vacation and it is her B day! Really. Hope all of you are doing well. I will b back soon!

Blessings ,
B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays

2009-06-16T09:09:00.004-05:00

Today B, the hanging turtle feels the pull in her life to b a 'Martha'. You know the Martha B is talking about. Mary's sister. Martha is known for b'ing a busy b on an occasion when Jesus was a guest in her home. (Luke 10:38-42) Martha was worried about all the work she had to do. She even complained to Jesus about it. The King of Kings was in her house and other things, lesser things captured her attention.

Well, this B is b'ing distracted by MANY things but she is determined to chose what is better like Mary. How is today working for you?

Choose this day who you will serve.

Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. John 15:4

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: Read The Signs

2009-06-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

B wasn't seeking a sign, but she found one a few weeks ago. She was walking along her path on an ordinary day, doing what she was supposed to b doing and there it was. A Sign planted with B's name all over it! DARE TO DREAM! B gave the Lord a big 'cheesy' smile just like the one she is showing you today. In fact, she couldn't wipe the smile off her face. B knew she was supposed to read the sign and share the message with others. Meet B, the dreaming turtle.

If you are a frequent visitor on the B Log, you have heard some of her lofty dreams. She calls them 'lofty' because her dreams are a gift from above. Now, that may sound like B is trying to b 'all special and everything' but hear this ....B knows her dreams are NOT ABOUT her. Dreams are always connected to God's heartbeat for His world. They are about OTHERS. If our focus is on 'us' in the dream, the Lord will give us lots of growing time in the Son so we can understand His purpose for our dream. Joseph, known as a dreamer in the Bible could testify to that.

B wonders today if you have a 'lofty' dream also. The words below are from 'The Message' and they are a message for you today. B's just delivering them as she runs her race at a turtle's pace.

This vision-message is a witness pointing to what's coming. It aches
for the coming — it can hardly wait!And it doesn't lie.If it seems slow in
coming, wait.It's on its way. It will come right on time. Hab 2:3
Dare To Dream...With God ALL things are possible!

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: In the Garden Praying

2009-06-02T08:07:00.016-05:00

B's all mushy today. The pictures tell the story.

Lord, I pray Megan's life will be a sweet fragrance unto you. I know you have great plans for her. I thank you for her special gift and love of working with children. I pray she is able to help children around the world, giving you all the glory. We love her so much Lord! Thank you. May she always walk with you in the garden. I pray she will B your girl in her generation. In your name Jesus I pray these things.

B His Girl

The Eyes ....What Do You See?

2009-06-01T07:14:00.012-05:00

I need a little bloggy insight today. You see, a God story is unfolding before my eyes and I can't read the writing on the wall. How long have I been with Him and I still don't understand!!!!! I shutter at the enormity of those words. That statement is a whole post in itself. But today we are sticking with the facts, just the facts. Here goes....

I am on the worship design team for our weekly service on Pensacola Beach. I work with Jack, the pastor of the service. If you haven't noticed on my blog, I have a creative, ok 'goofy creative' way of seeing things. Jack is allowing me embellish the setting at our worship service with creative stuff. I kid him about being 'Jack...out of the box!'
(That is an example of how my 'goofy brain' constantly works .)
Yesterday the message was about 'Jesus Questions-What do you see?' The passage was from Mark 8:22-26. In this passage Jesus healed a blind man using spit and His touch. When Jesus first touched his eyes, he asked "What do you see? The formerly blind man saw men 'walking around like trees'. Jesus touch his eyes a second time and his sight was restored perfectly. He saw everything in twenty-twenty focus.

As Jack and I were talking about the upcoming service, he shared the songs the worship leader selected for the service. The song, "In the Blink of an Eye" would be the last song in the service. I was a little stunned to hear that. Earlier in the week, I had taken a picture of the words...In The Blink Of An I. They were quickened to me when I saw them on the High School yearbook. Was this a coincidence??? I thought not. I knew God was talking. On the drive home after my meeting with Jack, I saw 'googly eyes' in my mind. I knew I was supposed to do a visual for the tables using eyes...I's. I told Jack my idea. He liked it and his message would tie in 'In the blink of an I'.

Saturday, I cut out 65 I's and glued on the Googly eyes for the tables. I prayed as I cut with my scissors, "Lord, it's taking a LOT of time to do this. (groan) I believe this idea is from you. I pray you use it." After the beach service, I had to return money to the church bookstore. As I was counting the money, I saw this.
I was stunned. I could not count anymore. I knew there was more to b seen in this defaced $10. Maybe one day I will get a second touch and clearly see the message here.

I have to ask...."What do you see?"

B His Girl

Thankful Thursday: He Makes All Things New!

2009-05-28T07:37:00.025-05:00

God has done great things and I am filled with JOY. See the NEW THING He is doing in 'The Village.'

The Lord brought light into a dark place. He did that in the beginning and He is still doing it NOW...Let there be light.

A young girl has a spot to lay her head.

B likes to post prayers and we posted one on Niguel's bulletin board. It's in the cross. I couldn't resist adding a turtle, with a message for her to B His Girl!

Color our world Lord.

Lamps add light. A journal in the yellow basket awaits her thoughts. Inside this nightstand is a message from God glued to the wood for Niguel's life. Jer. 29:11-14

I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out — plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for. "When you call on me, when you come and pray to me, I'll listen. "When you come looking for me, you'll find me. (THE MESSAGE)
Smiles from all the girls. Niguel, Dominique, and my girl Megan.
Thank you God for using MANY people to makeover this room. You ordered everything here. I pray this room is a reminder of your love for this family. It certainly is to me. Thank you Jesus. B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: The Circle

2009-05-26T06:56:00.012-05:00

Meet B, the praying turtle. Would you believe B is still thinking about spots? As you can see, she's actually covered in them today. She also has a spot in the circle for you to join her heart in prayer.

Almighty God, You and you alone are the one true God. What would we do without you? To whom would we go? Thank you God that we don't really need to 'pond'er that thought today. You are with us.

Lord, sometimes storms come up in our lives. Big Storms. Darkness seems to engulf us. If we take our eyes off the storm, we see you standing before us. Your voice beckons us to come closer. Your desire Lord is for our eyes to be open, not closed in fear. Lord we are thankful this Turtle Tuesday that you Jesus are the Light of the World. Our storms never catch you by surprise. In you, we can find refuge and shelter. You are an ever present help in times of trouble. Jesus you said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33 I am reminded today Jesus You Are the one who stilled the waters. You Are the one who shed His blood to wash away our sin. You Are the one we have placed our hope and trust in. You Are the GREAT I AM. Therefore, we declare You as our heart's resting spot. Thank you Jesus for saving a place for us in the circle. We love you.

B His Girl

B's Spots!

2009-05-22T07:31:00.027-05:00

There are some 'spots' in your house you might not want to put on the tour of homes or your blog: ) Today B takes you to hers. Her garage... where the door is almost always closed.

You see, B has a lot of stuff at the present moment. Some people might call her stuff JUNK. Yes, JUNK! B doesn't see it that way at all. Her 'spot' is a work in progress. This stuff is going to decorate a new space. It is undergoing a transformation. B is hopeful it will play a part in changing a young girl's life.

She is priming the furniture with white to prepare it for the finished look. The soft mattress will provide rest for a girl with no place to lay her head. Lamps will bring light into a dark room. Bedding will be a covering and add color to her room.

B is excited about the makeover in progress. She will share photos next week from The Village, where this stuff will be used. You will meet Nigel, a teen, in her spot. Her room. It will no longer be empty. She will have stuff in it. Stuff painted with love, ordered by God, and designed by the BB's... Barbara and Betty. I pray God will do a mighty work there.

(still more below)

Speaking of spots. I put my first coat of black paint on the furniture last night. I must tell you B is a very messy painter. Black spots were all over my hands and clothes. I definitely had a 'Dalmatian look' going on. I thought I cleaned all the paint off . This morning my son saw this spot still on the back of my arm. I couldn't see it. (It's difficult to take a good photo of the back of your arm: ) This reminded me how Jesus washed away my spots when I looked to Him as Savior and Lord of my life. I could not make myself clean enough. Jesus brought light into my darkness. Now I can open my garage door, B His home, and make my B-log all about Him. He's making my spots into something good.

He makes EVERYTHING BEAUTIFUL in its time. Eccl 3:11

B His Girl

A 'B' Story

2009-05-21T07:00:00.006-05:00

I was sitting in the airport frantically going over my list, hoping I packed everything for our trip. If I had forgotten something, the reality was it was too late now. We would be boarding the plane for Atlanta any minute.

My thoughts shifted to my assigned seat for the flight. I would be sitting across the aisle from my children, next to a stranger. In the past, it seemed I always sat next to someone whose life was in major turmoil . The routine often went like this. They spilled their guts to my listening ears. I put on my thinkin' cap doing my best to help them in an hour or less. It was like 'Dear Abby' in the skies. However on this flight I could not rely on my old routine, where I racked my brain for some good advice. I was not flying solo on this. I knew Jesus. I could point to Him.
As I waited for the gate to open, this question popped into my head. Am I prepared to share the reason for the hope that I have? Really prepared? To be honest, I was exhausted from packing and planning. I felt weary. I wanted peace and quiet on this flight, no turbulent life story. I was willing to take one for the team if necessary, but my fuel level was almost on E.

As I walked down the aisle, I saw my assigned seat next to a businessman. Seeing his face buried in USA Today brought a sigh of relief as I plopped in the seat next to him. It appeared I was off the hook. I could finish my Bible lesson without interruption and check this off my 'to do' list : ) Ten minutes into the flight Mr. Businessman place his folded newspaper in his lap. He leaned over to check out what I was studying. He recognized the Word. I was stunned. Mr. Businessman knew Jesus! Not only did he know Jesus, he wanted to talk about Him too. My countenance immediately perked up.

For the next forty minutes Chris, formerly Mr. Businessman, and I had the most incredible conversation about the Lord. We were soaring as we testified to God's goodness in our lives. The Holy Spirit was fueling this conversation. It was incredible, truly incredible. Time seemed to fly by and soon we heard the caption announce our arrival in Atlanta. I didn't want to land. People started crowding the aisle, gathering their overhead luggage. I stood up, joining the line to exit the plane with my children. I turned to Chris expressing my gratitude for meeting him. He nodded in agreement as I said goodbye. "Wait!" he said. Chris opened his briefcase and handed me a book, The Purpose Driven Life. (This was before it was well know.) "I want you to have this Barbara." I accepted the book graciously, recognizing the significance of the moment. As I stepped off the plane, my children immediately started talking about the nice man. "Who was he?" they asked.

Chris obviously had a divine appointment to sit by me that day, to spill his thoughts about Jesus. I boarded this flight weary but I have to tell you ...Barbara walked off flying. On the concourse I stared at the book in my hands. The Purpose Driven Life. I wanted that kind of life. As I paused, the Lord spoke a word to me I will never forget. It has become a signature phrase in my life. He said, "Barbara, I don't need you to do something for me. I just need you to be. " B...just B. I ponder His words to me often.

The Lord doesn't 'need' me or you to 'do something' for Him. He wants to 'do something' in us AND through us . That is how the world will see Jesus, not by our own efforts. My 'purpose' is to b connected to HIM, the true vine. Without Him, I can 'do' nothing. I am called to Be. You are too.
In Shakespeare's Hamlet, he said these words,

To Be or Not to Be? That is the question.

This is not the end of my 'B' story. I will forever B His Girl!

Turtle Tuesday: Check, Check, Check

2009-05-19T08:00:00.006-05:00

Check, Check, Check ! Those are the words B, the speaker turtle uses when she tests a microphone. That is not why she is saying them today though.

This is a location check. Last year B received an important ministry message from above. She feels the call to share it with you today. You can substitute your name for mine. "B, the spotlight is ALWAYS supposed to b on me." B, the speaker turtle's eyes grew big when she heard those words. They caught her totally off guard. B was to stand beside the One in the spotlight and speak from His shadow. He made her position very clear.(Thank you Lord.) B, the speaker turtle didn't want to b looking like a 'deer in headlights'. That's a look when you are 'found' somewhere you are not supposed to b.

Check, Check, Check! If you are in the spotlight, you may experience a major bump in the road.

B His Girl
(Double Check if you are sure this message is not for you. That's what B just heard.)
Lord help us make this really all about you. Thank you for your mercy. We want to serve you and not ourselves.
I am closing comments today so we can say a prayer instead :) May God's smile be seen in your life today. love ya, b

Trees...Thoughts from a branch

2009-05-14T00:13:00.024-05:00

It begins with these words," I think that I shall never see a poem lovely as a tree." This is the first line in the poem Trees, by Joyce Kilmer. I recited this poem from memory in front of my 5th grade class. I must have done okay because much of this poem remains in my memory today. The funny thing about this poem is how God has used it in my life over the years. I notice trees.

This tree, a live oak, is growing in Perdido Key, FL. It saved a man's life during Hurricane Ivan. As the raging flood waters swept through his house, they carried him out as well. He clung to this tree during a Category 3, almost Cat. 4 storm for hours. I imagine this tree is lovely to him.

This dead tree is located in the same neighborhood. I almost missed the beauty it holds. As I walked by this tree, a large winged bird caught my eye as she landed in its branches. Check out who calls this tree home.
A blue heron and her fluffy baby heron nest here.The owner of this property shared how incredible it is to watch flying lessons from his porch. His words made me think about the Lord watching us from His porch. Heaven. Talk about location, location, location....He has it. He has lots available if you are interested in living there ; )

The baby heron, barely visible in the photo ,will one day fly. She will be led to a great body of water just beyond this tree and learn how to catch fish. As I am writing this post, the Lord brought this verse to my mind. "Follow me and I will make you fishers of men." Matthew 4:19
This is my handwriting and markings as a child in my first Bible, a palm size New Testament. I ran across it recently. Matthew 4:19 is the only verse marked in the whole book. I believe this is the first verse I memorized as a child, even before John 3:16. An 'out of the blue' thought just crossed my mind. I don't think this is from me. Tuesday morning the Lord changed my Turtle post at the last minute to include a boat. It really threw me off schedule. I did not understand why He wanted me to do that, but I obeyed. Read this verse again. "Follow me and I will make you fishers of men."

Could that b what's going to rock B's boat? Catching a boatload of fish, so many fish the boat starts rocking, with the possibility of sinking. Jesus showed the disciples who followed Him a picture of that in the natural. WOW! This verse actually has my name on it. This moment was planned years ago. WOW God! (If I ever got 'goosebumps', it would b now.) The Lord wants to take US fishing... in a great body called the world.

The last line in Trees, "Poems are made by fools like me, but only God can make a tree." Thank you Jesus for using one of your trees to reconcile the world to yourself.

B His Girl

Here is the cover of my first Bible. My little black book. I wish I had called Home with these numbers sooner in my life. They never changed. The Lord was waiting on my call. Thank you Jesus. I love you. b

Turtle Tuesday: Part 4: Growing Up to B His Girl

2009-05-12T11:00:00.002-05:00

B had today all planned. Turtle Tuesday was going to be a snap and B was excited. Everything was falling into place like clock work. Her photo shoot had gone smoothly yesterday. In fact, it was picture perfect for the tale she planned on tellin' today. B was ahead of the game and quite proud of herself I might add. However, this morning, she found there was a change in the wind. She paid attention. A new course had been charted. Another post needed to be written. There were MORE lessons to learn. Mayb smooth sailing wasn't in the forecast as planned.

B discovered she wasn't through growing up on Turtle Tuesdays, not by a long shot. Actually, she felt more like 'throwing up' as she leaned over the edge of the small boat and looked below. The water seemed calm, much like a sheet of glass, but she knew things were changing. B heard the warning sound of an approaching storm. A 'see' advisory had been posted and B was on the lookout.

The Master of her faith and the Captain of her Soul pinpointed this spot in B's chart this morning. This is His message in a nutshell. Prov. 16:9

In his heart a man plans his course,but the Lord determines his steps.

B knows her hard shell can't shield her from the storm. So B, the rocking turtle, tossed her anchor into the wind, trusting His holding power.

God knows where YOU are right now and every step is planned by Him. Your plans may b in line with the Lord, but the way He gets you there will probably look different. Count on it! The Lord is known for 'rocking people's world'. (Thank you Lord.) He also seems to b very comfortable on the water, whether napping in a boat or taking a walk. He is asking you and B to trust Him, sail with Him. I hear Him adding this verse for the voyage:

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper
you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
B His Girl

Tagging Answers to His Questions

2009-05-06T08:32:00.017-05:00

Yesterday my daughter's car blocked my vehicle in the garage so I took my 12 year old son to school in hers. She is a senior and often her car is a highly decorated moving sign. Teens not only love to text on their phones but also enjoy tagging their vehicles as well. I have to say it was a little embarrassing to be the reading material in the car pool line. 'Say Yes' was the message seen driver's side of the car as we dashed off to school. The tagger wanted Megan to 'Say Yes' and be their date for Prom.

I didn't think much about my car sign until I read Lysa Terkeurst's post last night from Proverbs31.org. Here is part of her Release post.
"Why not make today the day you start saying yes to God? Why not utter this prayer, "God before I even know what it might cost me or require of me, I choose to say yes to you." And then get up from praying and dare to look for God's amazing invitation for you to trust Him- for you to say yes."
http://lysaterkeurst.blogspot.com/2009/05/release.html

I had a holy pause as I read this. The picture of my daughter's car window flashed before my eyes. 'Say Yes'. It was clear to me Jesus was behind the wheel of that Camry. You may not see Him in the photo but He is there. He tagged B's heart.

He doesn't want the 99.9% I have given Him. Jesus wants everything. Every single crevice in me. I know I am blogging this post to the choir, but aren't we the ones who sing the song... I Surrender All. Are you at 100%? My voice was never meant to sing solo. Trust me on that.
If you are reading this, consider yourself tagged, not by me, but by Him. Will you 'Say Yes'?

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Part 3: Growing Up to B His Girl

2009-05-05T10:00:00.007-05:00

If you read B's Turtle Tuesday growing story last week, "Rock You World, Squirrel" you might be under the impression B's walk with the Lord has been relatively easy and clearly marked. She sees, she hears, and she walks. Her lips always seem to b flapping the words "Keep Walking by faith" You might secretly want to say, "Give me a break B. Are you always smiling, looking expectantly in your walk? B real, turtle girl! Has your garden always looked like a bed of roses?"

Today B shares a 'not so lovely' photo of herself. She is in a dry place. B isn't flashing any pearly whites here. Actually she is doing the opposite. The grimace on her face gives you a hint into some of her growing up years. It isn't really the look she prefers to post today, but she is following the leader on this. As her friend Kermit the frog says, "It's not easy being green." And B, the turtle would add, "It's not always fun sharing 'the green' either!"

Meet B, the desert turtle. This turtle's terrain has not always been a lush garden, full of signs and wonders. Her path has sometimes been rocky, tiresome, and even lonely. B admits she felt abandoned in the desert. She did not raise her hand to travel this course, but found it a necessary route as she followed Jesus. B was tempted at times to compromise her walk in the wilderness. She questioned if she was cut out to do this. She heard another voice calling to her in her desert time. He cast doubt on God's words spoken to B. She considered his words. They sounded something like this. 'Would God really 'rock' someones world like you B? Who do you think you are? We both know you are not worthy of 'rocking'. If you continue walking.... I will b publishing photos of you when you were horrid . B, do YOU understand?'

In the desert, B faced a dilemma. Threats were hurled at her. This was a test. A big test. What would B do? What would you do? Would B continue walking to the oasis waiting to supply strength for the journey? Or would she shrink back in her shell, into her old patterns? B remembered the Lord's words to her.

Blessed is she who has believed what the Lord has said to her will b
accomplished. Luke 1:45
The view from above was clear. The Son was with B. He left His mark on her head. B was not alone, no matter how her surroundings looked. No weapon formed against her would prosper. B believed and she encouraged herself in the Lord. She started flapping her lips again repeating these words, "Keep walking by faith B. The Lord will b proved faithful and true to His word. "

B His Girl

More Squirrel-ly Thoughts

2009-04-29T07:55:00.009-05:00

I received this word yesterday after I posted on Turtle Tuesday. Day's powerful . It proved true all day. I have missed signs like this before. One day I saw Bstories. Can you believe I smiled quickly and passed by those words without capturing the moment? I have regretted it ever since. Sometimes the word 'DUH' goes off in my head like a fire alarm!

God wanted B, the turtle to tell her "Rock Your World Squirrel" story yesterday. Evidently, He spoke to some of you in it based on your comments and personal emails to me. Yesterday the Lord let B know she needed to share MORE on this. Instead of waiting until Squirrel-ly Saturdays, she knew the time was now.

After B, the turtle got over the initial shock of how the Lord spoke to her, she started pondering the meaning of His words to her. She went to the Lord in prayer about the whole scenario. "Lord" she said, "Are you calling me a squirrel?" B sensed a loving 'yes' to her question. To b a totally truth telling turtle, I have to tell you this....my neck stiffened a little, well, maybe a lot, over being referred to as a squirrel. I know I am a turtle, but to have some squirrel in me was a bit much for me to take. When was I ever going to get this 'walking by faith' stuff right?

I travel home from work that day and saw this. A squirrel in the middle of the road. This time Rocky saw me approaching. He ran back and forth across the yellow lines, not being able to make a decision on which way he was going. Earlier, in my encounter with Rocky, he did the same thing. Rocky couldn't seem to commit to crossing the road. He was stuck in the middle, going nowhere.

B, the turtle understood MORE from the squirrel-ly message.

It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. EPH 4: 11-16

The Lord wanted B to Grow up. He wants the same for ALL of you. Your calling has not changed. It doesn't matter whether you feel it today or not. If He has told you something, BELIEVE IT. His name is Faithful and True. I want to leave you with a SIGN today.
Capture this moment for yourself. KEEP MOVING FORWARD...Squirrel, even if you do it at a turtle's pace.

If you do, God is going to ROCK YOUR WORLD. Walk in His love for you today!

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Part 2 Growing Up to B His Girl

2009-04-28T08:00:00.009-05:00

Not to worry, this is the B log. You were probably expecting B, the turtle but sometimes the UNEXPECTED happens! Something out of the wild blue yonder! B shares that kind of thing today in a fluffy tale about Growing Up To B His Girl.

It was raining cats and dogs that day as B, the turtle, finished her errands and returned to work. Trying to avoid getting soaked, B positioned her box over her head and dashed up the steps for cover. When she reached the door, B saw she was not the only creature seeking shelter from the rain. Rocky, the squirrel was hanging out there also. He was startled by B's appearance and began to run nervously back and forth in front of B. He clearly did not know what to do in a moment like this. B did not either. What if Rocky climbed her leg like a tree? The thought of him scampering up B's leg sent her into a complete tizzy! Jumping up and down, screaming to the top of her lungs, is not typical type B behavior. However, her coworkers thought it was very entertaining.

After B recovered from her 'incident,' she continued her work. By the afternoon, the rain stopped and B was preparing for an after school program for little turtles. A coworker had informed B earlier in the week of a sermon he downloaded. As soon as I heard it he said, "I KNEW it was a message for you B." Hmmm. A message especially for B. Really? B had forgotten all about his words until he asked if he could play the message while B was waiting for the little turtles. She questioned in her mind if this message was REALLY for her. (B can b a little skeptical at times.) Sometimes she forgets God is not in a box like her.

B listened closely as the sermon played over the speakers throughout the office. The message was by a well known pastor, speaker, and author. He said his message was for dreamers. So far, so good. B qualified as a dreamer, more than she dared to reveal. The passage was Ex. 14:13-15
13 And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still,
and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you to day: for the
Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for
ever.
14 The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.
15 And the Lord said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the
children of Israel, that they go forward:

The pastor talked about the challenge of moving forward in your journey despite all the obstacles ahead. B had glimpses of mountains already on her path. She knew there would be many things and even people who would discourage her along the way. Then, out of the blue, came these words out of the pastor's mouth.

"I have a word for you today from the Lord. If you will keep moving forward.....God's getting ready to ROCK YOUR WORLD SQUIRREL!"

B's eyes grew big. Her coworker came into the room with her mouth hanging open. She witnessed B's out of the blue moment. Yes, this well known pastor said "ROCK YOUR WORLD SQUIRREL". He really said "SQUIRREL!" This was a WORD for B. She knew exactly what the Lord was saying to her.

B's story, 'Growing Up to B His Girl' is about Walking by Faith. She is feeling a little motion sickness now as she types this for you. His hand is on baby b's cradle and the ROCKING has begun. It' time.

B His Girl

P.S. Notice the 'fault' line in B's shell. It runs deep. The Lord is not put off by her imperfections. He will shine through them. Thank you Jesus. B loves you!

Turtle Tuesdays: Growing Up to B His Girl

2009-04-21T07:00:00.005-05:00

Today on Turtle Tuesday, B shares a 'new beginnings' photo from the family scrapbook.

Meet baby b, the turtle. Isn't she just the cutest little turtle you have EVER seen? Never mind her odd shaped head and wrinkles. She's still the apple of her Father's eye. He will iron out her wrinkles as she grows and make any adjustments if stiff neck syndrome becomes a problem. After all, little b is His girl. B is happy to say she has grown a little since this photo, although she's still a shade of green with some baby fat to walk off (by faith of course: ) April is a special month for her. B celebrates the new life she experienced when she encountered God in her box 9 years ago.

"I want my life to b about you" were b's first words as she came out of her shell to follow Jesus. She even pointed upward as those words tumbled out of her mouth. She felt the Lord nod His head, approving of her decision. "I think I can work with that" He said to b with a 'tongue in cheek' smile. Little b met the Great I AM! She still points others to Him today.

B leaves this growing message with you on Turtle Tuesday. "Remain in Me and I will remain in you." It is found in the 'B' chapter, John 15. You have to b attached to the true vine to grow. Without Him you can do nothing. Absolutely nothing.

Next week B's Growing Up to B His Girl story continues ... The Lord told B He was going to ROCK HER WORLD! It is a 'tell' all story only a turtle like B could share.

B His Girl

Dreams

2009-04-16T09:03:00.004-05:00

I am blown away by the lady in this video. Her name is Susan Boyle. God has given her a very special gift. The Lord flooded my heart with thoughts of Him as I heard her sing . This video stirs my dream with God. It is alive just like He is. It reminds me all things are possible with Him. Hear I Dreamed A Dream from Les Miserable.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY

I would love to hear your thoughts on this video.
Don't hide your gifts.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: Words of Wisdom

2009-04-14T09:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Turtle Tuesdays. Each week, I feature a turtle from my collection and share her story. Sometimes we stay on the surface of the water; other times we go deeper. I totally have fun with this! I hope you do too.

Meet B, the hanging turtle . I know she's not a wise owl but she has learn a few things over the years. Sometimes she can't resist chiming in with bits of wisdom. Those kind of things just come to B when she hangs out on the vine. Today she shares a proverb with you. A proverb is a short sentence that conveys a moral truth.

A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge,but the simple keep going and suffer for it. Prov 22:3

The message says it like this.

A prudent person sees trouble coming and ducks;a simpleton walks in blindly and is clobbered.

The Lord spoke this verse to B last year. She was listening to a well known communicator to hear their style of communication, not their message. LOL ! The Lord had another plan for B. He had a word for her. That's His style. This proverb was for B. It hit her right between the eyes and made her drop to her knees. B got her head out of the sand and took action. A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver. This word is gold for someone today.

B His Girl

Tattered Faith

2009-04-09T06:00:00.002-05:00

One of the things I enjoy in my relationship with the Lord is His communication with me in everyday life. It doesn't matter where I am. I could be driving, grocery shopping at Wal-Mart, or reading my Bible. He is there also, and sometimes He lets me know it in a tangible way.

Last year I was preparing for a retreat on Walking by Faith. I was laboring over the direction of my talk. " What do you want me to say Lord?" I inquired as I sat with pen in hand. When I am working on a message, I often multitask with other mindless chores to take a break from 'seeking and thinking', especially if I feel stuck. Laundry was the job of choice.

My favorite dish towel was in the laundry that day. It has my blog header verse on it. Heb. 11:1 Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This 'faith towel' had been 'gently used' a lot. During a break, I opened the dryer and my faith verse applique fell to the floor.

I piled the clean clothes on the dryer and reached for the tattered cloth . My 'faith' looked like it had been through the ringer! I deposited the 'remnant of faith' in the trash and moved on. Break was over. Once again, I sat in my comfy chair with my Bible, paper, and pen ready to be inspired. Then my tattered faith hit me like a ton of bricks. DUH BARBARA! Did you SEE what just happened? I knew in that moment what God was saying to me. He wasn't taking a break like me. The Lord was speaking over my pile of laundry.

Sometimes things don't go like we expected or hoped. All of us could write a list.

We didn't get the job, win the prize, or find the check in the mail.

The doctor's report did not confirm the instant miracle we prayed for.

Our children are making choices not consistent with what they have been taught.

The answer was no.

The Lord's 'call' on our life isn't quite matching the layout we expected.

Coming face to face with moments like these challenge us. How we react has everything to do with our trust in God. Some of us might stop walking by faith when our expectations aren't met. Just give up. Others, like me, tend to pout. (In a very grown up way, of course) Needless to say, we are not walking with 'Onward Christian Soldiers' playing on our ipod. Since we cannot see or understand what God is doing, it is easy to become discouraged and lose heart. In times like this, we tend to lower our shield of faith and sometimes even 'trash' it. Our walk can quickly change to curbside parking.

God told me to pick my tattered faith out of the trash that day. I cleaned off the garbage that wanted to claim it. My faith and probably yours has been through the ringer before. God is teaching me what it REALLY means to have my expectations in Him and Him alone. If I can hang on to my tattered faith, no matter what it looks like, God will use it. Jesus said, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

Examine YOUR expectations today. Great Expectations in Him Alone will not fail you!

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: B Remembers

2009-04-07T06:06:00.006-05:00

This is Holy Week for B and maybe for you too. She reflects on some of its meaning on this Turtle Tuesday.

Meet B, the spotted turtle.

As you can see B has a variety of spots. They run in the family. These spots symbolize the life of sin she led. She conformed to the the pattern of the world, making the same mistakes over and over. Today she remembers the price paid to remove these spots from her life.

The stick pins remind B that she hasn't always had a soft shell for God. She was hard hearted and stiff necked. She walked in her own ways for years. Now she wants to be like soft clay in the potter's hands. B wants to be available for God to use.

B gets low on the floor today, humbling herself before the Lord. She can never thank Jesus enough for shedding His blood for her. He did the same to wash away your spots too. We are family. He gave me this word for you and me today . 'Remember Me.'

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to
reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by
making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. Once you were alienated
from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now
he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you
holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation— 23 if you continue
in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the
gospel. Col 1:19-23

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: Pass It On

2009-03-24T09:02:00.003-05:00

Meet B, the Message Card turtle.

A big smile came across B's face when she saw herself in print. It's not that she's got the 'Big head', although you would never know it from this photo. She was the perfect turtle model for this card today. B has the look alright. In fact, she is probably one of the most pokey turtles around, yet her message today is an unexpected one, especially from her.

"Lord, slow me down."

B doesn't want to miss the smile on her life from above. She doesn't want to walk by the flowers on her path without a second glance. It's not that she wants to smell the roses. She wants to B the rose in the garden she was meant to b.

The only way B will do that is to Hang out with the Creator of the garden. He walks there every day while the dew is still on the roses. I pray you and B will b a still model today. Slow down and wait for Him. He always comes calling.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: An Illuminating Moment

2009-03-17T08:00:00.009-05:00

Welcome to Turtle Tuesdays. Each week, I feature a turtle from my collection and share her story. Sometimes we stay on the surface of the water; other times we go deeper. I totally have fun with this! I hope you do too.

Greetings Earthlings!
Meet B, the Turtle With A Glow.

Today the turtle girl shares her Never Before Seen 'out of this world' photo with you! Believe it or don't.

This photo was taken when the Divine first shined His light on B from above. A strange and mysterious thing happened that day as His Presence filled her 'turtle box'. A glowing arc, like a rainbow, hovered around B's face. The glowing color wasn't like any crayons she had in her 64 count box. It was brighter, more intense and yet transparent at the same time. The glow lasted for hours. No sightings of this phenomenon were reported by other turtles in area 51. B was the only one who could see her glow in the mirror. She had been visited from above. B's heart and mind were captured that day. It was a life changing close encounter of the best kind!

Not everything can b explained. You need to know that. It's true. There is so much going on around us every day we cannot see. B doesn't understand why she glowed, but she did. Her feet did more than take a step of faith that day. She JUMPED! B became sure that day. Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Today's Turtle Tuesday is a little 'out there', kind of strange, even to B. Some turtles would make light of this as a 'Ripley's Believe it or Not' kind of moment. B understands that.They might think she made the whole thing up. B is known for being a little creative. She also lives in a town noted for UFO sightings. B wants to b very clear though. She is not talking about the photo of this green glowing creature below. Perhaps you have had you own sightings with him/her before. Although B's name does mean stranger or alien and her glowing moment gave her peace. They are not related: ) Really. Believe it!

Keep your eyes and heart open turtle girls and guys. You may have a Close Encounter with the Divine today.

You will find me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jer 29:13

Peace,
B His Girl

Doodling A Message to God

2009-03-16T10:21:00.030-05:00

Last weekend I attended a retreat in Destin, FL. Luann Prater from Proverbs 31 Ministries was the speaker for the event. The theme of the retreat was: Be still and know that I AM God. Ps 46:10

Many of you have probably experienced a moment like this at conferences. If you went to She Speaks last summer, we did this. On an index card, you are asked to write down anything that's a stumbling block in your path or keeping you from God's best for your life. You know, the 'thing' you need to lay down. AKA Baggage. Then you exchange it at the cross for a verse to carry in your heart.
I didn't know what to write on my card Friday night. The Lord has my stuff in front of Him already. The good, bad, and yes... even the ugly. He has a mountain of baggage with my name on it. (I traveled a lot of places before I met Him.) What more could I say? I have tried to surrender ALL.

This is a copy of what I dropped off at the cross. ( B, the artist, I'm not.) My doodled dilemma was clearly mapped and my request documented. One question was still ahead in my journey. What would I do when I reached the fork in the road?

I was the last of over two hundred women attending the retreat to pick up a verse. As I read His words, B stilled. Tears streamed down her face. I AM was speaking to her.

The fork in the road became clear.
I AM had a plan. If you have roadblocks in your path or forks ahead that leave you anxious, Meet the Great I AM at the Cross. Doodle a message for Him. He has a word for you too and peace for the journey.
"Stand at the crossroads and look;ask for the ancient paths,ask where the good way is, and walk in it,and you will find rest for your souls. Jer 6:16

B His Girl

A Picture Story

2009-03-11T12:54:00.012-05:00

Last weekend at Women In Worship, I saw Mike Lewis, The Jesus Painter. Here are a few photos of his work. The pictures tell your story and mine. Scroll through and watch what happens to your sin.

http://www.jesuspainter.com/

Jesus covered our sin with his blood.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: The Family

2009-03-10T06:57:00.012-05:00

Welcome to Turtle Tuesdays. Each week, I feature a turtle from my collection and share her story. Sometimes we stay on the surface of the water; other times we go deeper. I totally have fun with this! I hope you do too.

It's been quite a task to take on this early in the morning but after a lot of poking around, we did it! All B's clan stacked up to share this photo with you. Meet B, the turtle and her family.

The 'big box' turtle is on the bottom. He supports all of us. (The 'big box' doesn't care for his name . lol :) Next is me, B, the goofy turtle. Most of you know me by now. Then you have my two teen turtles and the baby turtle. He's 12, but he will always 'b my baby' turtle.(I have to keep it short this morning because he ate a bad bug. He is tucked in on the sofa today instead of school.)

This photo is actually our 'before' look. We look ok but the lighting is not quite right.

But with a turning of a switch, you get the glow from above.

You, O Lord, keep my lamp burning;my God turns my darkness into light. Ps 18:28

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Ps 119:105
B prays for all our families, especially for our little turtles. Thank you for them God. I pray they see the light and enjoy a deep, personal relationship with you. May they walk in all your ways and honor you throughout their life. You are the way, the truth, and the life. Help us as parents model your ways to them. Thank you Jesus for revealing yourself to us. You are the light of the world. Amen.

B His Girl

Another 'B' and Tea

2009-03-07T21:33:00.027-06:00

From the moment the BB's met her, she was a blessing. She is also 'B'eautiful and very special. Her 'B's are bees and mine are turtles, but make no mistake about this. The B's are Family.

So without further ado, let me introduce my sister in Christ I met this weekend, Thelma Wells aka Mama T. She is something else! God connected the three B's in a special way. I will tell our story in another post. Check out Thelma's website and make plans to attend her free conference May 22-23 in Dallas if you can. She speaks out of the overflow of her relationship with Jesus Christ. She touched our hearts. (I love the symbol of the cross in our photo, even if it is part of the window frame. God is smiling on His B's!)

Betty, the artist, and I were at a Women In Worship Conference this weekend in Fairhope, AL. The conference started with a High Tea. We did not know fancy hats were appropriate for the tea party, so Betty made one for me out of two sheets of beautiful poetry. The 'He loves me daisy' added a nice touch to my paper hat. Now I had a song on my head and one in my heart! The other 'real hat' lady is Donna, the author of the poetry. She totally appreciated her art being displayed in a new way.
Women In Worship is a ministry of Alicia Williamson Garcia. She is not only an awesome speaker but an incredible worship leader as well. I did not get a photo with her but she prayed over me. A pastor once told me when I was around an anointed speaker or pastor to ask them to pray for God's call on my life. Alicia doesn't know me from Adam but as she was praying, I felt the Presence of the Holy Spirit. It was powerful. Tears were stinging my eyes. It was a moment to remember.

The BB's saw a road named 'Dry Branch' on the way to the conference. I keep thinking about that sign. Maybe the Lord was talking to me. The enemies' attacks had left me drained and discouraged. Know the feeling?

I needed that prayer!

I needed this time of refreshing.

If you have some symptoms of 'dry branch', a good soaking is what the Great Physician prescribes.

Draw from His well. It satisfies.

Worship! He inhabits the praises of His people!

Find some iron. Let it sharpen you. B a sharp instrument available for God to use.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: The Pearly Coat

2009-03-03T07:00:00.007-06:00

Welcome to Turtle Tuesdays. Each week, I feature a turtle from my collection and share her story. Sometimes we stay on the surface of the water; other times we go deeper. I totally have fun with this! I hope you do too.

Meet B, the pearl coated turtle.

Have you ever wanted to blend in your environment and not b seen? B is known for b'ing a lot like that in her turtle world. This information may come as a surprise to you, but it's true. She's a little sheepish, even for a turtle.

The question is: Why would a shiny turtle ever want to look like the matte colors around her? B, the pearl coated turtle, knows the answer to that question. Opening your 'box' to the world exposes your heart. (Cupid is not the only one who shoots arrows.) B uses her 'box' for protection and control. Often her actions interfere with the maker of her pearly coat. Can any of you on the B log relate to B's struggle?

B has something inside though that can't be hidden. The Living Word is inside her box. He cannot be contained. He always operates 'out of the box' , but you have to b open to see Him work.

One of His Names is The Good Shepherd. B carries a picture of Him in her heart. The Good Shepherd watched over B when she was not paying any attention to His leading. Talk about a stiff neck! B had one. She left His pasture to taste what looked like greener grass. The Good Shepherd, in turn, left the fold to find her. He never gave up on the fact that B was HIS 'sheepish turtle'.

B can never fully express her gratitude to Him. She tries though. Whether B is using her pearls as camouflage or openly letting Him use her box, He is with her. One day B will break the hinge off her box. It will b a Beautiful thing to Him.

He has made Everything beautiful in its time. Ecc. 3:11

Thank you Jesus. I love you. B

B His Girl

Drum roll..................And the Winner Is

2009-03-02T07:10:00.007-06:00

Thank you to all who participated in Turtle Tuesday last week helping B, The Linked Turtle with her post. Your creativity was inspiring! You made B smile. My friend B, the artist selected the winner. (My son was too busy having fun this weekend to add his opinion.) And the winner is:

Lisa Smith at Glad Chatter. Congrats Lisa. Please email your address info to me. I will mail your surprise 'box' on Wednesday.

BHisGirl

Turtle Tuesdays: The Linked Turtle

2009-02-24T00:14:00.004-06:00

Welcome to Turtle Tuesdays. Each week, I feature a turtle from my collection and share her story. Sometimes we stay on the surface of the water; other times we go deeper. I totally have fun with this! I hope you do too.
Meet B, the linked turtle.

B loves pictures. She thought it would b fun to have you finish her post today. (Okay, to b really honest , B has a speaking engagement to focus on. )Write a caption for each photo or one short story. *** There are 3 photos in this post. ***B will get a couple of 'independent turtle judges' to select a winner. She will send you a prize in a Box! She doesn't know what that will b yet, but B promises it will b better than what you get in Crackerjacks. You don't have to have a blog to enter. Just leave your email in case you win. Have fun with this. B creative. This contest is open until the end of the day Friday. B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: The Landing Strip

2009-02-17T11:00:00.008-06:00

Welcome to Turtle Tuesdays. Each week, I feature a turtle from my collection and share her story. Sometimes we stay on the surface of the water; other times we go deeper. I totally have fun with this! I hope you do too.

Houston, the turtle has landed on 'a wing and a prayer' 4 u!

Meet B, the 'wide awake' turtle. (Yes, her lashes are real. They just look painted on :) She is in the 'no snoozing' zone today, where it all started. The Garden. It is the beginning of her story and yours.

Last week 'The Strong Tower' had B praying all over the bloggy garden. She is keeping watch on this Turtle Tuesday post, leaving 'a prayer 4 u'. Receive, believe, and Agree. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16

O Lord, You are the One we look to. Our eyes are on you, the One True God. The Everlasting God. You sit enthroned above the circle of the earth and you see us. Each one of us. We know you in part, but you know us fully. You knew we would fall in the garden and hide in our shame. But you had a plan to cover our sin and wash away our filth. You loved us first. Thank you Jesus for shedding your blood for us, allowing us to have a relationship with you. May we cherish that privilege every day.

Lord, B wants to lift the bloggy world up to you. Like Martha, we are often worried and upset about many things, often forgetting to chose the best thing...YOU. I pray that we focus on YOU; sit at your feet today and gaze at you. Gaze. Just B. B yours. You have good plans for each of us and our future is full of hope. Your eyes are looking for hearts perfect toward you so you can show yourself strong. Sometimes Lord, you do that in ways we wouldn't choose. Thank you Jesus for always knowing what is best and working all things for good. Our prayer Lord is that others would see you in us. I ask for the bloggy world to reach many on the www who do not know you. I pray you would direct lost turtles to our blogs so they can find the Way. Inspire our blogs with your words and our hearts to reflect yours. Like John the Baptist, use our blogs to point to you Jesus.

May we post lots of praise, thanks, and comments to you Lord today. I pray our greatest desire is to please and honor you. Help us not to look at the blog beside us and measure our worth according to their gifts and talents. May each of us grow what we have been given and use it for your glory. Let us not get carried away by followers and comments, but be reminded of our call. Our call is to follow you.

I pray especially for those in a difficult season. He is with you. I pray for healing for our bloggy sisters Deedee and Sheryl. Also for those I don't know. You know them Lord. You love them all.

Jesus, our hope is in you. B hears the alarm going off. May the whole wide world's eyes be awake to who you are. Pray continually bloggers. You know the saying, you snooze, you lose. This is your watch too.
Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever.
Amen.

B His Girl

Catch This!

2009-02-12T15:11:00.005-06:00

Words On A Sign

"I've never seen a fish on a wall with his mouth closed."

Lord, please give us the wisdom when to speak up and when to shut up.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: Turtle Marks

2009-02-10T07:40:00.018-06:00

Welcome to Turtle Tuesdays. Each week, I feature a turtle from my collection and share her story. Sometimes we stay on the surface of the water; other times we go deeper. I totally have fun with this! I hope you do too.
Sorry about the late post today. B has been a busy B. I mean turtle: )

Meet B, the Marked Turtle. She's hanging out on another B log today, Bandit's stick. They are an unlikely pair to say the least. Bandit is known for chewing the stuffing out of soft cuddly things. B reached out to him anyway. "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them. Luke 6:32 B wanted to show Bandit her marks.

Being marked may not sound good, but in this case, it is. A turtle's marks are found on their shell. B exchanged her worldly pattern several years ago when she met the Lord. He changed her look from the inside out. At first, she was concerned her shell was still green and blue. How would anyone know she was different, marked? Could her new look change someone else? Then she remembered Jesus words.
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."John 13:34-35

This picture tell the rest of the story. Bandit "hearts" B and his stick!

"I tell you, love your enemies. Help and give without expecting a return. You'll never — I promise — regret it. Live out this God-created identity the way our Father lives toward us, generously and graciously, even when we're at our worst. Our Father is kind; you be kind. (THE MESSAGE: Luke 6:35-36)

B His Girl

Looking Out My Window

2009-02-09T08:48:00.007-06:00

I had no intentions of posting today. There are many things on my 'to do' list but this bush keeps calling me from my kitchen window. "Take a picture of this" is what I heard in the nudge. So I have turned aside from my 'to do' tasks and paid attention to the prompting. These pictures are for some visitor on the B log. Here is what I see.

In the entire bush, these two flowers are sent to be an early sign of what's to come. Not everyone will see the signs, but they are visible for those who pay attention.

Before this bush comes into full bloom there were dead branches that needed to be removed. If left on the bush, they would distract from its beauty. A green thorny vine was also choking some of the branches. At first glance, it almost looked like part of the plant. Don't be fooled by appearances. There is one true vine and many imitations.

Beauty, unseen by many, is all around you. God wants to add MORE color in His branches. He wants to be noticed in your life. Jesus said in John 15:4 "Remain in Me and I will remain in you." Others are looking out their window. You are the branch they see.

B His Girl

Part Two: Open Your Hands

2009-02-04T23:19:00.023-06:00

copyright 2004 Global Vision Resources from the Dream Giver workbook by Bruce Wilkinson
*In case you missed Part One of "Open Your Hands"

There wasn't a crowd to witness this divinely ordered moment. I was alone in a hotel room in Knoxville, TN preparing an assignment for the last day of Classervices, a conference for writers and speakers.

Attending this conference was a HUGE step of faith. Absolutely HUGE to me! Public speaking was never something I considered doing, but I knew the Lord had called me. Choosing not to lean on my own understanding in this, I began believing and walking in what the Lord said, letting Him direct this path.

As I drove to the conference, the Lord whispered, "Barbara, what do you want?" I was speechless. I had no immediate answer to His question, but I knew the importance of answering correctly. The Lord said something similar to Solomon in 1 Kings 3:55

At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream , and
God said, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you."

Most of us at some point have thought about our 'three wishes' if we found a genie in a bottle. However, genies are not real. But Jesus IS. He's the Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace, Everlasting Father, Almighty God. He is the Living One. He was the One asking the question. With Him ALL things are possible. So.... what did I really want?

Many thoughts flooded my mind. I spent most of the drive seeking an answer to the question. I was listening to a well known Christian speaker on a CD. She made a statement about something in her life she wanted in her walk with the Lord. Immediately, I knew I was supposed to ask for the same kind of thing. She is clearly walking in her dream. Actually, I believe she flying more than she's walking. She's believing God...and He shines in her life. I pointed to my CD player and said, "That's it Lord. I want that with YOU."

As I was preparing my conference talk that evening, I picked up my book, The Dream Giver by Bruce Wilkinson . I was flipping through the pages but came to a halt when I saw the picture on my post today. I had already read the book but I never noticed this picture.

Open hands, no longer empty. A feather was placed between them.

The Lord made His Presence known to me in my hotel room. I wasn't alone. In a holy moment, He showed me the feather. The Lord was saying YES to my request. The Dream Giver wanted to give me my dream. It was never my idea anyway. The dream was from Him. This was His plan all along.

A feather for my wings that would one day take flight.

And He will raise you up on eagles wings, bear you on the breathe of dawn, make you to shine like the Son and hold you, hold you in the palm of His hands.

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: The New Coat

2009-02-02T08:00:00.003-06:00

Welcome to Turtle Tuesdays. Each week, I feature a turtle from my collection and share her story. Sometimes we stay on the surface of the water; other times we go deeper. I totally have fun with this! I hope you do too.

One day B, the turtle was tucked away in her shell, reflecting on her ordinary turtle life. She had many regrets and losses, more than she could count. MayB you know the feeling. Looking back, B knew she wasted most of her early years 'pond hopping'. In case you are not familiar with that term, pond hopping is where you keep testing the water to find something that will fill your empty shell. Humans call that kind of thing 'looking for greener grass'.

Yes, B was always looking for that greener grass. She wanted to live in a beautiful shiny clear pond but she found a place in the shade where the green pond scum grows and settled there.

One day B stretched her neck out of her shell long enough to see the mossy log life didn't really float her shell. She didn't want to B a 'green product'. The world wanted every turtle's house to B 'green'. All the turtle TV stations promoted a 'green' lifestyle. Their motto was to 'recycle' the trash, just keep the cycle going. However, being green was never going to B enough. Her world was still going to smell. B decided to get off the curb and start walking in a different direction.

It wasn't very long after that neck stretching moment, B saw a light shining in the dark world. She had heard of the light but now that she had seen it, she sat in awe. The light looked directly into B's eyes and heart. She knew she was covered in pond scum, yet the light didn't seem surprised at all by her appearance. The light knew He was what B was really looking for. He drew me up from the pit of destruction,out of the miry bog,and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. Psalm 40:2 He cleaned and covered B's green shell with a new coat that day. Meet the new B with her coat of many colors.

B lives in a new pond. Her shine goes with her. Her prayer is that all turtles would see that light. The coat of many colors is available in all sizes.

Know someone who needs a new 'look'? Model your shiny shell. Work that runway, Turtle Girl! FLY!

B His Girl

Open Your Hands

2009-02-02T07:18:00.003-06:00

It's been almost four years. I still remember the moment. The memory is as fresh in my mind as the bread we were breaking. My friend Barbara and I were having lunch, chatting about the Lord. We do that a lot, the talking about the Lord part. The Lord was listening to our conversation. He made His Presence known to me that day by adding a few words of His own .

As Barbara shared a God story, she stretched her arms across our table in a gesture, coupling her open hands together. The motion caught me off guard. I wasn't expecting to receive a hand signal from the Lord during our lunch, but He had something to say to me . "Open Your Hands, Barbara."

'Open my Hands?' What was He talking about? What did that mean?

I pondered the question. I must confess, I am a ponderer! A pastor once told me "Barbara, you think too much." Then he followed up his statement with "I don't think enough." I knew he was right. He did not think enough : ) I've discovered when you walk by faith, there is a lot of prayer and pondering necessary to understand what the Lord is really saying.

Here is what I came up with on 'Open Your Hands.' The Lord was going to give me something or take something away. Either way, it was important I followed His instructions. My hands were to be in the open position. The Lord had served notice. Something was about to change in my life.

I was working at my church when I got this hand signal. I went to lunch with a new employee who is now my good friend Betty, the artist. I held my open hands together and said, "God told me to do this." She smiled and replied "Barbara, you are not going to believe what I have to show you. I'll bring it tomorrow." The next day she gave me the print in this post. It was her latest painting. Needless to say I was floored! The Lord sent a picture to confirm what I heard. Betty wrote this verse around the painting:

But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.They will soar on wings like eagles ;they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isa 40:31

Three months later the Lord added 'More' to my open hands.
I will share Part 2 of 'Open Your Hands' on Thursday. I hope you will stop by the B log tomorrow for Turtle Tuesdays! B, the turtle has a new coat to show you!

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: B's PILOT

2009-01-26T15:59:00.030-06:00

Meet B, the Turtle With A PILOT.
If you're thinkin' the B log might be an advertisement, ease your finger off that mouse. Today on Turtle Tuesday B wants to share one of her traveling stories with you:
How B the Turtle Got 'Stuck' On A PILOT

It was a bright and sunny day. All was well in the land of Florida. B was talking to the Big BOX turtle in her household. She's quite fond of him, despite his little bit of 'snapping' .( Just checking to see if you read the B log, baby. You don't really snap.) He made a comment about B's transportation and that's how this can of worms opened. It was a 'sticky' situation.

You need to know this about B. She has never been the kind of turtle to pay a lot of attention to her wheels. As long as she was going places and not getting stuck in the middle of the road, she was content with whatever vehicle she drove. That's all true, at least until the day the Big BOX turtle called her wheels a 'clunker'. Yes, a clunker. That's exactly what He said. B looked up 'clunker' in the dictionary. It is an old, worn-out vehicle or machine. Now B was fully aware her van had a slight patina finish. The new car smell had long been replaced by Mcfries. But now her 'older vehicle' had turned into a clunker in the eyes of the Big BOX turtle and HERS. What was she going to do?

The B's began shopping around for a replacement, checking out the features and benefits of several cars. One day B sat in a PILOT. Her search ended when her hands gripped the wheel. This was it. She wanted this SUV badly, but the shell price was a little hefty for her budget. Being a good shopper, she decided to buy a slightly used model to help with the cost. She knew exactly what she wanted. A 2007 white PILOT with tan leather, a sun roof, and a DVD player would be nice for the younger turtles, but not necessary.

That was a tall order evidently because the turtle dealership couldn't find one. B became obsessed. She was doing some major googling over a PILOT. It became the focus in B's days. Where was her PILOT?

There is another important part of B's story you need to know today. She loves Jesus. Eight years ago He rescued her from the murky waters of her pond. Her life's focus has been about Him ever since. One day between googling and thinking about her PILOT, B was reading her daily devotional. The first line in her devotional said, "I AM your pilot." B was stunned as those words pierced her heart. The focus on a 'shell' that would one day rust was trying to take the #1 spot in B's heart.

B was crushed. She repented immediately. She knew she had to let go of the wheel because it had a grip on her heart. B talked to the Lord about this shell issue. She decided she would stick to her old white van. Months went by and she knew she had made the right decision. B really didn't want anything the Lord did not order. Then one day, out of the blue, B felt a nudge to look at a turtle dealer's web site a couple of hours from her pad. She had never thought of stopping by this place. She typed in the word "PILOT". A 2007 white PILOT with tan leather, sun roof, and a DVD popped up on the screen with a great shell price. The dealer had just gotten in this car. She knew who directed her to this site. Her footsteps were being ordered by 'THE PILOT'. B called the Big Box turtle on his cell. Would you believe the Big Box turtle was traveling through this town in less than 30 minutes?

B's photo tells the ending of this story today. B is stuck on THE PILOT, not the shell. She learned a lot from this clunker story. She never wants to trade in THE PILOT for another way to go. He is the only way. Yesterday she thought it was verrrry interesting when Chatty Kelly asked the question in her post, "Who's Your Pilot?" It confirmed the post B was considering sharing today. Kelly and I have the same PILOT!

Take time with that question today. "Who's Your Pilot?" If Jesus is your PILOT, you are sure to land in a heavenly place. Oh....B almost forgot to add a bumper sticker to this post 'Honk if you LOVE JESUS'!!!!!!

B His Girl

Headline News for the B Log

2009-01-26T07:50:00.009-06:00

Do you ever have a post in your mind, that will not leave you alone until your fingers start tapping those ivory keys? This is one of those for me. Last week's headline stated,
'ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.'

The words quickened my spirit as I read them during my phone conversation with my friend B. I have to tell you about the BB's (Barbara and Betty). We talk about the Lord ALL the time. As we were attempting to put all the puzzle pieces He has given us together, it was clear the Lord was adding to our conversation. 'Anything is Possible' .

Now , I know the Lord is able to do immeasurably more than all we can ask or imagine, but sometimes we can't help imagining, can we? I believe the Lord was having fun with us on the phone. He was the third party in our conversation because we were definitely gathered in His name. He had to throw 'Anything is Possible' in the mix so we would not box Him in. Jesus said it like this in His news journal, "Everything is possible for him who believes." Mark 9:23

A statement like that demands a response. WE BELIEVE LORD! The BB's believe! We were using our little bb's (bird brains) to try to figure out what He is doing and where we are going next. I think we got a new feather for our wings because we are determined to live out God's purpose for our lives before we fly away!

Two days later as I left my house for Bible Study, I saw my neighbor's newspaper in her driveway. The paper was positioned perfectly for me to be able to read the headline.

Dream Fulfilled

My heart leaped! The things God has spoken to me flooded my mind. I have a dream from the Dream Giver that I can't make happen. It is beyond my reach. BUT with God, all things are possible. He reminded me the words 'Dream Fulfilled' would one day be the headline in my life. I believe that. I believe Him.

What has the Lord spoken into your heart that you have not seen come to fruition? Don't give up on your dream if it is from the Lord. It will be your greatest regret if you do. His news is trustworthy. Jesus is the Faithful and True Witness. One of my favorite verses highlighted in my heart is Luke 1:45

"Blessed is she who has believed
that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!
Are you believing Him today?

B His Girl
P.S. Look at the football players in the top photo. Do you think the one on the left is praising God and the other is doing a John the Baptist move...pointing to Jesus? Maybe? Anything is Possible!

Turtle Tuesday: The B Log

2009-01-20T07:44:00.012-06:00

Welcome to the B Log on this Turtle Tuesday! The Lord keeps talking to B about the Log. Evidently, there is MORE to log work than simply writing down where you have been and recording your connections. I thought I should share my notes with you.
Today the Lord wants you to check your position. Don't worry if you haven't taken turtle ballet. For turtles, it is not the feet we check. It is our neck. You know a turtle never makes progress without sticking out his neck.

Here you see B with her neck out ready to walk the log wherever it leads her. Here is a good verse to refer to in this position when the log gets bumpy and you want to tuck your head in your shell.

But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him. "Heb 10:38

B is now showing you what you do not want to do. Stay in the 'looking back' postion.

At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. Titus 3:3-5

His mercy is new every day. Don't miss what God has for today. Adjust your neck.

This position can B good or not so good.

If you are feeling down and stuck looking at yourself in the pond, you need to reconsider this look. It is not Becoming to your family line. The Lord has done great things for you and B. Read your log book. Remember His promises.
You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.' Acts 2:28

If your neck is bowed in prayer, this is a very good position. B's prayer for you today:

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. Eph 3:16-17

The 4th position really needs no explanation. It is the gazing position.

Are your eyes on Him? His are on you.

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. 2 Chron 16:9

Check your position on the B Log. It makes all the difference in your dance!

B His Girl

THE NOTE

2009-01-18T20:58:00.005-06:00

Not all notes are found in a bottle.

This one came from a Doctor's office two years ago. As I waited for Justin's name to be called for his appointment, he picked up this paper and handed it to me. It said,

"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "Plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. When you pray to me, I will answer you. You will seek me and you will find me because you seek me with all
your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13
Jesus heals and forgives

Isn't it just like the Great Physician to leave a prescription for all you need to know about your situation in the Dr.'s office? I had to smile when I realized the symbolism of that. God was having fun with me. I saved my note.

The interesting thing is my turtle friend Laura got a note just like it when she stopped at the drugstore four years ago to get some toilet tissue. She was going through a difficult time and the Lord had these words waiting for her on the Charmin . She knew God was talking to her and The Note is her toilet paper story.

In December, I was thinking about blogging this God story. I couldn't stop thinking about it. While I was preparing to post this story, I went to my weekly Toastmaster Club meeting. I never go in the bathroom of the facility where we meet. That day I made a pit stop there. As I was washing my hands, I noticed a familiar piece of paper next to the sink.

It was The Note. The Lord knew exactly where I was going to b that day. He wanted me to read The Note again. It wasn't really about writing something for my B Log. He wanted to speak to my anxious thoughts about the future. 'Barbara....Hello, my plans for you are good!'

Sometimes we are in a place where we need to hear a word from the Lord for our situation. Today Luanne wrote in her blog she wanted God to write her an email or a note in the sky. I know how she feels. I think we all do. You may not see The Note in a Dr.'s office or on your brand of toilet tissue. But you did see it on the B Log. Maybe The Note is for you today. It is a word for some bloggy girl or guy. Hello...

B His Girl

Picture Tag

2009-01-17T08:03:00.016-06:00

Using the 4th photo from my 4th file would be a repeat for my bloggy friends . These are random photos from B's unorganized files. So I guess I will horse around on this tag.

I had fun with this, but Justin wasn't so sure. This was taken at a birthday party.

Edie has a menagerie in her files, but I'm just a turtle girl. Oh the turtles yet to be seen on my blog!

Not everyone in the family is this coordinated. Megan is taking the photo as she jumps.

More branches in the tree. This photo was on a Christmas card years ago.

There always a short cut to beating the heat when taking photos in the Florida heat. ( I told Shari from P31 I needed some fashion help. She will believe me now! Flip flops are an essential in building a wardrobe.)

God is serious about what He said to me. "Just B." He sent me this jacket as a reminder. One day I will share the story how all of this came to B on the B log.

Ok, the picture tag is over, but Jesus is still it...always and forever!

B His Girl

Checking The Log Book

2009-01-16T12:42:00.012-06:00

Have you ever gone back and checked your records on something? Today's photo is of my dad on the right (88 yrs. old next month) and Conrad on the left( 86 yrs old). They were both pilots in WWII.

My dad read an old article about Conrad last fall. Conrad was the pilot of the plane,"Que Sera Sera" (What will be will be). Did anyone catch the significance of that??? That plane made History by becoming the first aircraft to land on the South Pole on October 31st, 1956. You can see this plane at the Pensacola Naval Air Museum in Florida.

My dad read Conrad lived near his baby girl (me). I contacted him and my dad came to visit. They were reunited last week, sitting in aircraft seats with their log books after 63 years. You see, Conrad and my dad flew together to Japan one time to pick up POW'S 63 years ago. Both of them have a record of this flight in their log book and each other's name listed. How cool is that!

All of this has me pondering about log books, keeping a record of where I've been. You never know when God is going to connect something old with something new. Are you keeping a log book of your flights with God? Have you missed your connections along the way?

I know many of you have earned your wings. God wants to use you to make HIS-story known. He wants His people to be free from the enemies' clutch.

Check your log book.

Look for flight patterns.

It might give you a clue where you are flying next and your mission there. With Him, there is no mission impossible! What will b will b!

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: The Raku Turtle

2009-01-13T06:33:00.007-06:00

Going through a fiery trial in your life? Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. (1Peter 4:12) All of us go through trials throughout our lifespan. We were destined for them. Today's turtle has certainly been through her share. She has the marks to prove it.

Meet B, the Raku Turtle. Her name sounds like a character out of Lion King, but the origins of Raku are from the Japanese. "Raku pottery is created with a specific ceramic firing process that uses both fire and smoke to create unique patterns and designs" according to Wise Geek.com. The kiln used in the firing process reaches up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. What kind of clay could handle those kind of temperatures? A specially designed one of course.

Are you starting to get the picture? Like B, the Raku Turtle, we will all feel the furnace turned up at various times in our life. How do you view your trials? Remember, we are never in the furnace alone. Ask Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Their furnace story is pretty incredible in Daniel Chapter 3. The heat was really turned up. The three handled their truly fiery trial with a boldness and confidence in their God that made others watch to see what happened. King Nebuchadnezzar was an eye witness to what they were experiencing. In fact, he was the one who caused the fiery trial for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Through their trial Nebuchadnezzar was able to see something MORE, something BIGGER than himself. He saw the treasure inside their fired up clay pots and God got the glory.

Then Nebuchadnezzar said, "Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king's command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. Therefore I decree that the people of any nation or language who say anything against the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego be cut into pieces and their houses be turned into piles of rubble, for no other god can save in this way." Dan 3:28-29

God wants to use us in our trials; For others to see this all-surpassing power in our jars of clay is from Him and not from us. The Lord wants to show Himself strong in your life and mine. B, the Raku turtle hasn't always noticed the good that came out of her trials, but it's there. God's Presence with us always leaves a mark. Look what He showed B after she was pulled from fire.
A smile of favor on her life. He does that for ordinary turtles and even regular ones. It gives B a whole new perspective on future furnace visits ;) I pray it does for you too. You are very loved by your Father. Look up and smile back.
B His Girl

Thankful Thursday

2009-01-08T09:39:00.032-06:00

Thank you Lord for the great mercy you have shown me. Your Presence in my life has given me great JOY to share. I will always praise you.

Thank you for Mike and his patience with me.

Thank you for Megan and her heart for Helping Honduras Kids. I pray you are always first on her dance card.

Thank you for William, Lord. I pray his heart would reach for you and you would raise him up to do mighty things in your name.

Jesus, thank you for Justin. May he always seek you in his life and look to you for wisdom.

Lord, thank you for Bandit who loves his family and shows it at all times.

AND B ONE!

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: The Sign

2009-01-06T06:00:00.008-06:00

Last Saturday, my husband and I visited a new gift shop, The Emerald Turtle. The name makes me think of the land of Oz. B' ing a turtle girl, I was excited to check it out. If you scroll through my blog, you can see a small portion of my collection. Some people in my family think I should B turtled out. I thought my husband may be leaning in that direction too. Imagine my surprise when he told me to buy this sign. It was totally his idea, not mine. I promise : )

Meet B, the crossing turtle. She is a sign, a REAL sign. Look at her colors. Noboby could miss the meaning behind this sign, or could they? Most of my silly little turtle stories come to me immediately, but not this one. I wondered what this B would say on Turtle Tuesday. The Lord heard my pondering thoughts and He set the stage for the story to B told. Yes, B, the crossing turtle had a story. We all do. Here's a recap of what happened.

I lead a Sunday School class at my church. We are in between studies, so I prayed about our lesson. Studying on leadership from Joshua 3 seemed to be my answer. This passage is about the Israelites following the Ark of the Covenant, going a way they had never been before. They had to consecrate themselves for this trip because the Lord was going to do amazing things among them. Just hearing that makes you want to clean up, doesn't it!

The way they had to go looked difficult. Crossing the Jordan River at flood stage must have seemed virtually impossible, but the Lord told them He was going ahead of them. That's always the key to get where you are supposed to go. As the priests carrying the ark touched the water's edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing. All the people crossed on dry ground into the promised land. Then Joshua told the twelve men he selected earlier to gather stones from the Jordan as a sign of what the Lord did when the waters of the Jordan were cut off.

Our class had great discussion and prayer time. When I got home from church, I knew God was speaking to me as I placed the folders in my office. I was simply amazed. He is totally engaged in my life and yours...and why wouldn't he b. After all there is a wedding feast planned. This relationship is serious! My thoughts turned to my post for today. What was the crossing turtle sign going to B about? Then, just like the scene from Oz, except He pulled the curtain from my eyes. I knew what He was saying to B. I saw the sign. The sign was for me.

What I am facing in my ministry looks difficult. I am looking at a heap of obstacles trying to keep me from my promised land. It is time to step my foot into the place He is calling me. Turtle, cross over! Do the study in the village. Take a step in the all the creative ideas He floods inside my mind. Never mind all the 'ites' there. (see Joshua 3:10)

Maybe you are facing mountains in what God has called you to do. We can't always see what is ahead in our journey. We are to walk by faith, not sight. It will require us to take steps in places that are new to us. I know the Lord has AMAZING things planned for you and B. The Living God is among us. Read the signs along the path. You could be at a crossing like B. I can feel the water on my toes now. I am crossing. See you on the other side.

B His Girl

Special Delivery For B

2009-01-04T19:18:00.019-06:00

I don't usually blog on Sundays but I have to tell on God today : ) He's stunned me, knocked my socks off, blew me away and all of this happened before lunch!

At Tea for Two , eight ladies checked the information card at their table saying they were interested in Bible Study and nine others indicated they wanted to know MORE about Jesus in their life. I concealed the tea girl's personal information on the card above. It was filled out completely in pencil except for the red mark by knowing Jesus in her life. I believe she added that red mark later in the tea. Praise God! These women are hungry and we are called to feed them.

This morning, as I was getting ready for church, I questioned what to do for the Tea for Two ladies. How were we going to do Bible Study in the village? What did the Lord want for them? I thought about possibly downloading study material and making folders for the ladies. Tea for Two is not an official ministry funded by my church, which means resources are on us or so I thought.

At church today, my friend Leslie, sat beside me. She showed me the folders you see in the photo. She wondered if Kathy, a ministry leader sitting in front of us might need them for spiritual retreats or maybe I could use them? I knew the answer to that question immediately. (Sorry Kathy.)

Tell me.... who brings a school supply box with folders into a church service!!! God's messenger, that's who. The folders had been in her car for three months but today the timing was perfect for delivery. They found their purpose and the Lord answered many questions I have been asking in a bouquet of flower folders.

Yes, He speaks in all kinds of ways. This is not really about the cost of the folders. He is confirming my path to continue in the village. I thought the village was on the way to my promise land and now I am sure of it. Thank you for the flowers.

"Lord, they are beautiful!!!! You didn't have to do that, but I love them and You" said B His Girl. You make my heart sing!

Birds-Eye View for 2009

2009-01-01T00:01:00.004-06:00

I want to share a couple of gifts I received for Christmas.

My friend B gave me this highly feathered* bird ornament before Christmas for my tree. (Last year she gave me feathers, so I must be moving up on her list to get the whole bird ;)

As she handed it to me, she said she thought my bird was defective at first glance. (She bought me a flawed bird???) Then, she told me she bought a twin bird for her tree. They had the same 'issues'. Check out the next picture.

Look closely. This bird only has one eye. A Highly feathered bird with one eye.....Hmmmm. Could there be a message in that for the BB's? This B thought so.

Check out my next gift in the photo below.

A couple of doves by Lladro. I love the person who gave me this very nice gift, but it seemed a little odd. I thought it looked like a wedding gift and I have been married for years. Highly feathered*, holy spirit, love birds. They seem to only have eyes for each other. ( FYI: The person who gave me these birds has no idea about my other bird or feather stories. )

I have pondered the meaning of these gifts. I know there is no coincidence I received three white birds. Here is what I see in this. God is giving me a birds-eye view on what He wants me to do.

FOCUS. FOCUS.FOCUS...ONLY ON HIM. No other gods before Him.

He wants my gaze to be upon Him. He wants my undivided attention.

I would love to hear what the Lord is saying to you as you begin 2009.

B His Girl
* Love the term 'highly feathered.' I read this term on the famous B's blog. (siesta Beth Moore). She is loved by many and most definitely highly feathered. Check out her post on the birds.
http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com/2008/12/this-ones-for-birds.html

Turtle Tuesdays: The Surfer Turtle

2008-12-30T08:44:00.010-06:00

You have probably already noticed there is something terribly wrong in this photo. A short board and flippers are of no use to B on deck. She needs water. B will never hang ten here. She's stuck with her neck out in the rose garden. It is not where her heart is.

Houston, B has a problem. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that out. If anyone above is listening, and B believes You are, "Help". Her eye is fixed on you.

B finds comfort in these words:
You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop
and rest.Every moment you know where I am. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. You both precede and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,too great for me to know! I can never escape from your spirit! I can never get away from your
presence! Psalm 139:3-7

One day the surf will b up! Until then, I am waiting on you. Meet me "In the Garden".
I love you Jesus.

B His Girl

More Than A Cup Full

2008-12-29T07:00:00.013-06:00

Tea for Two was a "moment" in my walk with the Lord and I know everyone who was a part of the tea felt the same. The room was filled with JOY, pure JOY! You felt it the minute you stepped into the room.

Teapots were the centerpiece at each table. Chocolates and a Christmas ornament with the word Joy filled their cups.

Each china tea cup was unique and a 'take home' gift along with a few tea bags. Our scripture verse Isaiah 9:6 was on a card at every place setting along with candy canes and the bell.

In my talk, he Lord not only wanted me to share about His names: Wonderful counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace but He wanted them to hear the bells ring with who they are or can B in Him. I will never forget the look on one young woman's face when I said, "You are significant." I knew the Lord was speaking to her heart as those words left my mouth. She knew it too. It was a beautiful moment to remember.

Twenty six women attended the tea with us. Here are a few of the tea party girls! We sang Joy to the World and the tea party song, I'm a Little Teapot, complete with hand motions. Yes, we did that. Corny I know, but everybody was smiling! It was a great ice breaker and we all laughed as we poured it out. Later in my talk, I would bring them back to that pouring out moment, as I talked about Jesus pouring out His blood for us. We also had a beautiful cake for Jesus and sang Happy Birthday to Him.

We had some peeping turtles at our window. How precious are these children! They watched the entire tea party. Our door man, Tim, supplied them with treats.

My children thought Santa came early as they saw our dining room filled with gifts. Many women donated gifts to hand out at the end of the tea. Each woman also received a Bible wrapped in beautiful gold paper. We had sooooo many gifts left over we were able to share with a shelter for abused women.

Tea for Two was POWERFUL because it was about the name above all names. JESUS. No one at the tea party missed the fact that this tea party was in honor of Him. I could see tears streaming down many faces during my talk. Jesus was touching hearts. He had tea with us. We gave praise to Him and ended the tea party singing Amazing Grace. What a picture that was! Sitting at the table singing Amazing Grace! I pray there will be more tea parties. I think I am supposed to start a new collection. You guessed it. Tea cups! Tea cups for turtle girls....His girls.

Tea for Two! There is room at HIS table for more!

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: The Peeping Turtle

2008-12-16T08:17:00.009-06:00

If you ever wanted to see a 'real' picture of B, this is definitely it. Meet B, the peeping turtle, not to B confused with a peeping Tom of course.

B is always sticking her neck out, trying to take a peek at what God is doing in the dark. This weekend she is hosting a Christmas Tea Party in a very dark place. She couldn't resist peering into the cup they will be drinking from. B is like a little turtle waiting for Christmas morning. She knows God has something good simmering and she can't wait for a sip.

B's speaking at this tea party. Her message is titled "Tea for Two". Because Jesus drank from the cup, we are never alone. He is Immanuel, God with us.

For to us a child is born,to us a son is given,and the
government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful
Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isa 9:6

Have a spot of tea with Jesus and share the JOY!

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesday: B and The Turtle Saver

2008-12-09T06:45:00.007-06:00

B would like to share one of her favorite books, The Turtle Saver by Laurie Parker. This book is written for little turtles but the message also applies to big turtles. Listen to what Laurie writes:

"A man driving along in his truck sees a turtle in the middle of the road. Being good-hearted, the man stops and moves the turtle to safety...

And this simple act that was kind-hearted
Is how several things that took place all got started...."

B loves this story. It shares the far-reaching effects of one good deed. It reminds her as she follows Jesus how important it is to B obedient. Often we classify whether the things the Lord nudges us to do are a 'big thing or a small thing'. We may use the size of the thing to evaluate the importance of the nudge. BIG mistake! Some turtles keep waiting on the log for the BIG thing and the Lord keeps waiting for those turtles to obey Him in the seemingly small thing. For who has despised the day of small things. Zech 4:10

If your heart reflects the REAL turtle saver, you know He ordered your steps to see that turtle in the road. Stop. Help the turtle in the middle of the road. They want to get to the other side just like you. Save the Turtles! B obedient!

B His Girl

A Christmas Tea

2008-12-08T08:32:00.011-06:00

Saturday the 3 B's, Barbara , Barbara, and Betty went to a Christmas tea at a local church. There were over 350 women at this event seated at round tables decorated to the hilt. Each table's hostess decorated a table with her own linens, china, and centerpiece; They also had special gifts for the women seated at their table. The B's received a manger scene from our hostess Sharon. They allowed 30 minutes for the 'Tour of Tables' before the event began. Martha Stewart would have been impressed. It was quite a spread! This red bird was part of the decor at our table. Feathers. Fluffy feathers. More for my collection to get my wings. They made me smile. I took this bird home with me ;)

Sharon Jaynes was the speaker at the event. Her take away for the audience was, "What are you giving Jesus for His birthday?" After all, the hustle and bustle is about Him....Right? We received a piece of paper at the end of her message to write down our gift to Jesus. Then we dropped it in a gift wrapped box at the front of the room. I filled in the lined paper with my gift . I know what He wants from me.

Do you know what Jesus would like to receive from you? What will you give to the King of Kings?

B His Girl

Is It In You?

2008-12-07T12:42:00.003-06:00

Hi Bloggy Friends,

Enjoy this fun video.

The Stethoscope: http://www.thephilfiles.com/2008/10/21/is-it-in-you/

B His Girl

Turtle Tuesdays: The 'Green Light' Turtle

2008-12-02T08:00:00.014-06:00

Today I am sharing another newbie in my turtle collection. My sister gave me this turtle for Thanksgiving. She named her B, the green light turtle.

When my sister told me her name, I knew it was a word for me. The Lord was answering my prayer with this glowing turtle. A green light means GO!

You see, I have been praying whether I should do a women's outreach program this Christmas. It sounds like a no brainer, but this is a little different from my usual speaking engagements. I would be ministering in a visibly dark place. This apartment complex is in a poor neighborhood with lots of drugs and crime. I have no idea if the women would come to a Christmas program. What better place is there for the Light of the World to be seen than in a dark place. I have to B honest though, really honest. It is not the kind of speaking engagement I had in mind when I asked God for one. : ) It's funny how God's answers always look different than I imagined them to B.

God connected me to this apartment complex over a year ago. A fire had destroyed eight units and those families lost everything. God nudged me to do something about it. I took a step of faith and God sent the resources. I lead the mission with other people from my church to help them get back on their feet. The Lord showed Himself strong and very personal to those single mothers and their children.

The Lord showed me some things too. He opened my eyes to the struggles that go on daily in a dark place. It is one thing to hear it on the news and another to see some things for yourself. I have been in this apartment complex when shots were fired and blue lights flashing. Yet, the thought of ministering to the women who live there will not leave me alone. I asked God to shut the door if this is not of Him. Part of me wanted to hear a door slam. Instead, I got a green light.

I am not the first or the last to get a green light from the Lord.

Remember Moses. He saw fire in a bush and the Lord spoke to him when he turned to check it out. The LORD said, "I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering... So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt."

Moses got the green light that day. It wasn't the only signal he received from the Lord. After the Israelites left Egypt, Pharaoh changed his mind. He wanted the Israelites back, under his thumb again. Pharaoh's army began chasing Moses and the Israelites. As they were closing in on them, Moses was looking at the Red Sea ahead of him wondering what he should do. He cried out and the Lord had a word for him.

He said to Moses, "Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on.

Green Light Moses! You know Moses didn't chose the Red Sea route; He never planned to walk through the sea. It looked impossible, over his head. Moses witnessed once again the power of God being with him. The Red Sea was just a momentary stop on the way to the Promise Land.

I think this apartment complex is on the way to the land God has reserved for me. Like Moses, I know He will be with me on my journey. After all, I'm His girl. B, the green light turtle reminds me that God's thoughts are not my thoughts, neither are my ways, His ways. I would not have planned to cross the Red Sea on foot or minister in a place that's over my head, having no idea how to do that. But I have committed my way to Him, knowing He will direct my path.

Maybe you are crying out to the Lord about what He wants you to do or where you are to go.
Watch for His signals. This is what the LORD says:

"Stand at the crossroads and look;ask for the ancient paths,ask where the good way is, and walk in it,and you will find rest for your souls."Jer 6:16

If you see B, the green light turtle...Go! You never travel alone.

Bhisgirl