Last spring, I was speaking with one of my daughters about my latest off grid project. I told her the original milking parlor has now become the "Power House" and a new milking parlor was established.
A couple of weeks ago, a grid power line came down, so we found ourselves without power, but the wind was amazing! Now, there isn't enough battery storage, yet to maintain being fully off grid, but the wind was a definite bonus that night. As a matter of fact, even with a small battery bank, Adonai provided enough wind to keep the entire house functioning at full capacity, including the heat pump! All of this took me back to that conversation I'd had with my daughter, months earlier.
As we were awkwardly chatting as that is our established pattern, I was grasping for a topic and that's how the new Power House project came up. Now in looking back, our conversations are nearly always about what the kids are doing, what I'm doing, and who/what she is analyzing . . . This conversation was no exception. I told her about a bigger turbine, having the big boom truck set the pole, etc. then just casually included. "All we need now is a $1000.00 worth of batteries and we're set." She immediately interjected that a thousand dollars worth of batteries seemed expensive. I just dismissed it as her usual disparaging comments and went on with life, but now in taking note of my electric bill and knowing I was fully powered up when the line came down, I feel pretty blessed to have spent that $1000 dollars the way I did.
Now, comparing my expense to her lifestyle, I'm thinking this $1000.00 was an actual investment. Adonai willing, the batteries will last for years, whereas $1000.00 in her hand, I don't think covers the monthly rent. I realize things in this world are temporal, but as long as we are in this world, I don't think there's anything wrong with making some investments that will last, even if we are looking at temporary verses eternal. I'm thankful to have no mortgage and no rent, but my house and lifestyle would not be good enough for many. That's okay, it's more than good enough for me.
As I thought of being able to switch over to our off grid power and how truly blessed I am. I continued to see clients, do laundry, and as mentioned previously, enjoy a warm house. And the great thing about investing rather than rent is the differing perspective on temporal. Apparently, for my daughter, it's all temporary, so there is no need to consider long term purchases or investment, but from my perspective, rent removes the "temporal" option. If a person wants shelter and is choosing to rent, that option seems more like bondage, to me.
If I live another 25 years, as far as housing goes, all I have to concern myself with is maintenance and taxes. If I were paying rent, that concern would be quite pricey, not to mention potentially ever increasing. Now, as I can afford it, I like to add to the battery bank. It was nice to know, with offgrid power I could still offer care, comfort, refreshments, and if the power grid shutdown had been wide spread, several of us could have weathered it fairly comfortably together. Everything in this world is temporal, so why pay for it for a lifetime?
Monday, November 30, 2015
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Pocketbook Revolution
The old saying "money talks" is proven every day, in most every way with the Lobby. Without lobbyists, our representatives would have to buy their own lunches and pay for their own recreation on their meager $174,000.00 annual salary. The term actually came from business reps standing in the lobby on Capitol Hill waiting for their opportunity to approach a representative regarding a bill or legislation. Currently, being a lobbyist is an actual career opportunity.
A lobbyist is a professional persuader, a negotiator with cash in hand, "hired" by any collective cause to cajole politicians into legislation to further the cause they represent. Interestingly, since favors are given, rather than money exchanged it's not illegal or bribery to influence a representative by these tactics. Obviously, the individual citizen, does not have the power, a.k.a. money, of the lobby. By the same token, we the people, do not have a largely supported collective cause that is able to send persuasive lobbyists to Washington. In all honesty, the representatives and councils of family values groups haven't really accomplished much in Washington regarding abortion or the gay agenda. Those who desire morality and freedom simply cannot win by the rules in Washington. So what's the answer?
It's time for a pocketbook revolution. It's time to speak loudly and clearly with our wallets. Every company, every collective power that promotes something we don't believe it, just stop buying their products! It really is that simple. If you don't like the way Procter & Gamble used a gay wedding to both promote Tide and deride Kim Davis, then stop buying Procter & Gamble products . . . all of them! If you don't believe in the abortion pill or birth control pills, stop using any of the pharmaceuticals produced by the companies that produce the products that offend you. My latest biggie, was when Frito Lay came out with rainbow Doritos. Frito Lay makes a great many products besides the special order Doritos.
Do your homework! Memes and complaint posts on social media aren't going to change things. All these blogs I've been doing for years would have no impact at all if I didn't back my views with my wallet. I'm still not making a noticeable difference, but I'm only one person. If all the people who post memes and articles against abortion, birth control, and vaccines actually stopped supporting Big Pharma straight across the board on all their products, our voice would be heard. Sick and tired of the Bruce Jenner saga, get rid of the channel that carries his show and google to discover which companies are supporting the transgender agenda.
Our representatives are not listening to us, but they do listen to the lobbyists and lobbyists get their money from Big Corp. If Big Corp is losing money . . . the benefits to politicians will slim down. We've had this backward for too long. Big Corp is calling the shots, the lobbyists are delivering the perks, and the politicians are owned. If we the people actually put our money where our mouth is and stopped buying ALL the products made by companies promoting what we don't support, we'd see an all new meaning to "trickle down economics." If we the people don't buy it, Big Corp can't sell it, they have to take a new approach, or lose money. If Big Corp starts losing money . . . lobbyists will be scurrying around like rats on a sinking ship and politicians might have to actually listen to "we the people." Or better yet, without all the perks, politicians might leave Washington after a couple of terms.
Even if there aren't enough people to collectively win this pocketbook revolution, those who do will at least know, we've taken a stand and not contributed to the moral collapse of this country.
A lobbyist is a professional persuader, a negotiator with cash in hand, "hired" by any collective cause to cajole politicians into legislation to further the cause they represent. Interestingly, since favors are given, rather than money exchanged it's not illegal or bribery to influence a representative by these tactics. Obviously, the individual citizen, does not have the power, a.k.a. money, of the lobby. By the same token, we the people, do not have a largely supported collective cause that is able to send persuasive lobbyists to Washington. In all honesty, the representatives and councils of family values groups haven't really accomplished much in Washington regarding abortion or the gay agenda. Those who desire morality and freedom simply cannot win by the rules in Washington. So what's the answer?
It's time for a pocketbook revolution. It's time to speak loudly and clearly with our wallets. Every company, every collective power that promotes something we don't believe it, just stop buying their products! It really is that simple. If you don't like the way Procter & Gamble used a gay wedding to both promote Tide and deride Kim Davis, then stop buying Procter & Gamble products . . . all of them! If you don't believe in the abortion pill or birth control pills, stop using any of the pharmaceuticals produced by the companies that produce the products that offend you. My latest biggie, was when Frito Lay came out with rainbow Doritos. Frito Lay makes a great many products besides the special order Doritos.
Do your homework! Memes and complaint posts on social media aren't going to change things. All these blogs I've been doing for years would have no impact at all if I didn't back my views with my wallet. I'm still not making a noticeable difference, but I'm only one person. If all the people who post memes and articles against abortion, birth control, and vaccines actually stopped supporting Big Pharma straight across the board on all their products, our voice would be heard. Sick and tired of the Bruce Jenner saga, get rid of the channel that carries his show and google to discover which companies are supporting the transgender agenda.
Our representatives are not listening to us, but they do listen to the lobbyists and lobbyists get their money from Big Corp. If Big Corp is losing money . . . the benefits to politicians will slim down. We've had this backward for too long. Big Corp is calling the shots, the lobbyists are delivering the perks, and the politicians are owned. If we the people actually put our money where our mouth is and stopped buying ALL the products made by companies promoting what we don't support, we'd see an all new meaning to "trickle down economics." If we the people don't buy it, Big Corp can't sell it, they have to take a new approach, or lose money. If Big Corp starts losing money . . . lobbyists will be scurrying around like rats on a sinking ship and politicians might have to actually listen to "we the people." Or better yet, without all the perks, politicians might leave Washington after a couple of terms.
Even if there aren't enough people to collectively win this pocketbook revolution, those who do will at least know, we've taken a stand and not contributed to the moral collapse of this country.
Friday, October 2, 2015
Investing
We seem to have developed a "pawn" and debt mentality about life, in general, here in the US of A. I've been contemplating a few theories about different types of money management and mismanagement. Of course, I prefer my own method of management and my perspective of money, but then I guess most of us do, or we'd make changes. I've come to realize, even those who say they want help don't actually want to change their method of management, they just want an increase in funding. Fortunately for many, our society has a great many safety nets available, but rather than use these agencies for emergencies, the supply has become a way of life . . . being subsidized is budgeted in, if you will.
As I've shared here, previously, my expenses are pretty minimal. I receive questions about financial management almost daily. Often those "questions" are really veiled requests for funding. Most of the time I share information, rather than funds, but when Abba leads me to offer financial assistance I do it. I am an enabler by nature, so I have to hear Him before I just hand out cash, because I've done that in the past, only to realize that really didn't help the individual at all.
As I listen to various management practices, I sometimes struggle to understand the mentality. I struggle, especially when it comes to believers and our responsibility to Abba in the way we should manage our money. There are four kinds of people and it becomes apparent in financial matters as well. There are three types of folks who save. Those who designate a set amount from every paycheck, those who are always afraid they won't have enough, and those who simply don't spend as much as they earn. Of course the fourth kind of person is a non-saver. When it comes to professing believers, I've actually heard some of them say saving and investing is a lack of faith . . . and some of those same folks aren't afraid of hard work, while others have no shame in begging.
I know people who always take care of their bills and finances, but don't necessarily believe in savings accounts or funds. I got out of the stock market, I think in '06, maybe '07, before the crash. I never went back. My only stock investment now is four-legged in the pasture, rather than paper on Wall Street. I don't have a huge savings account, but things in this world do break and do wear out, and sometimes an opportunity is presented that I just don't want to pass up, so I like to have a little nest egg. I want enough to buy a good milk goat or a used tire, if need be.
I've been hearing a lot lately, about selling things that I consider an investment . . . For example, many folks in my circle of influence raise various breeds of livestock. My goats and chickens are an investment, and some years I do better than others, but the point is, I plan to own a milk goat and laying hens over the long term. I'm not getting rich here! I do buy and sell bucks seasonally, but rather than sell a milk goat when prices are high, I figure she'll produce so much milk and so many kids . . . Yah willing, and she's much more valuable to me in production than in a one time sale. I have one milk goat, I paid $100.00 for, over two years ago. I've been offered $200.00 for her, but she's worth so much more than that! So far, she's given me four kids and milk to feed bottle calves, which means meat in the freezer. Usually the young doelings bring about $75-$100 and the bucks at least $50. Right there is more than the $200.00 offer. Then there's all the milk, and we all know the price of beef. I truly do not remember any returns or dividends from Wall Street investments that can match this in a year or two. I know I never owned any stock that doubled in value in two years, while also paying "daily" dividends.
If America returned to an agrarian society, I know we'd be healthier, but I also believe our economy would be stronger. Flocks and herds are a safer investment than paper . . . and caring for flocks and herds means we'd have more exercise, need far less entertainment, and have much less stress! An agrarian society invests in life, instead of possessions.
Monday, September 14, 2015
When It Comes to Need and Provision
What do we have to bring to the table besides a fork and a need?
Today is officially the 10 year anniversary of shaking the dust off my feet as I left my training ground in northern Missouri. In that northwest Missouri city, I'd operated an outreach mission in what was deemed a blighted neighborhood, maintained my membership and attendance at the local synagogue, while visiting nearly every church in the town on Sundays. I'd also served as a school mentor in that blighted neighborhood, worked the food kitchen with my fellow congregants from synagogue, conducted Bible studies at the state mental health facility, and served as both police and fire chaplain for the city. It all seems sort of a blur, now, but in that time I was learning and being trained for what I am now doing.
All of the duties mentioned in the previous paragraph were regular weekly responsibilities, except fire and police which were monthly meetings, but 24/7 on call emergencies. I wasn't called on every call, only deaths, and thankfully there were not many criminal or fire deaths, but there were some. Now the point I'm getting to regarding need and provision is, all of these "positions" came with a title and responsibility but no monetary compensation, whatsoever. I had a modest income from an annuity, and by modest, I mean less than $600.00 a month. I also had some reflexology clients @ $15.00 a session. With that income, I was able to pay the utilities, keep gas in my car and insurance, and provide a weekend meal for the children in the neighborhood who came to the Bible class. In that time, I actually had a few folks who simply handed me money, saying Abba had told them to give it to me. That didn't occur frequently, but it did happen on occasion. I also had folks, religious folks, asking for donations and bills to be paid . . . which did occur with regularity!
Through that time, I was also blessed to do a bit of traveling in mission work, and I would always receive an extra blessing along the way. In running this little outreach ministry, a larger church that was 501c3 agreed to stop sharing a devotion at their food pantry . . . Something about state donations. It was through this time, they asked if they could donate the perishable leftovers to the mission I ran. It was mostly veggies and prepackaged salad mixes, which just happens to be my very favorite food and probably least favorite of kids! I was honest with them and told them salad was my favorite, but "my kids" probably wouldn't eat it. They said, "Enjoy!" So for three and a half years my grocery bill was less than $20.00 a week which included feeding the children on Saturday night.
Traveling ministry was enjoyable, but I clearly heard that my mission call was to America, and three weeks before 9/11 Abba led to me to a computer ministry. That in itself is quite a story, but that will be an article for another day. Back to this preparation for barter and sharing. My monthly bills also included a land line for the mission and a cell phone for my volunteer chaplain duty. When I heard the call to move into the computer ministry, an internet connection also became a monthly bill as well. I was still able to save some money! In that seven years of running that mission, I discovered how very little I actually needed and how content I was just to be serving YHWH, but He was still simplifying me.
Now, as I prepare for others to join or just continue to reach out in this area, I have an electric bill, a communication bill, and a feed bill, which are all paid monthly and still amount to less than $600.00 a month. I'm blessed with income from a business and book sales, but to this date, it hasn't put me in a new tax bracket. I do not live "poor as a squirrel" in winter, not at all! But, in over two decades, by the grace of YHWH and change of dependency, my cost of living has remained under $600.00 a month. When it comes to need and provision, one of the biggest lessons I've learned and believe I will teach others is just how little worldly wealth it takes when we realize YHWH truly is our Provider.
Today is officially the 10 year anniversary of shaking the dust off my feet as I left my training ground in northern Missouri. In that northwest Missouri city, I'd operated an outreach mission in what was deemed a blighted neighborhood, maintained my membership and attendance at the local synagogue, while visiting nearly every church in the town on Sundays. I'd also served as a school mentor in that blighted neighborhood, worked the food kitchen with my fellow congregants from synagogue, conducted Bible studies at the state mental health facility, and served as both police and fire chaplain for the city. It all seems sort of a blur, now, but in that time I was learning and being trained for what I am now doing.
All of the duties mentioned in the previous paragraph were regular weekly responsibilities, except fire and police which were monthly meetings, but 24/7 on call emergencies. I wasn't called on every call, only deaths, and thankfully there were not many criminal or fire deaths, but there were some. Now the point I'm getting to regarding need and provision is, all of these "positions" came with a title and responsibility but no monetary compensation, whatsoever. I had a modest income from an annuity, and by modest, I mean less than $600.00 a month. I also had some reflexology clients @ $15.00 a session. With that income, I was able to pay the utilities, keep gas in my car and insurance, and provide a weekend meal for the children in the neighborhood who came to the Bible class. In that time, I actually had a few folks who simply handed me money, saying Abba had told them to give it to me. That didn't occur frequently, but it did happen on occasion. I also had folks, religious folks, asking for donations and bills to be paid . . . which did occur with regularity!
Through that time, I was also blessed to do a bit of traveling in mission work, and I would always receive an extra blessing along the way. In running this little outreach ministry, a larger church that was 501c3 agreed to stop sharing a devotion at their food pantry . . . Something about state donations. It was through this time, they asked if they could donate the perishable leftovers to the mission I ran. It was mostly veggies and prepackaged salad mixes, which just happens to be my very favorite food and probably least favorite of kids! I was honest with them and told them salad was my favorite, but "my kids" probably wouldn't eat it. They said, "Enjoy!" So for three and a half years my grocery bill was less than $20.00 a week which included feeding the children on Saturday night.
Traveling ministry was enjoyable, but I clearly heard that my mission call was to America, and three weeks before 9/11 Abba led to me to a computer ministry. That in itself is quite a story, but that will be an article for another day. Back to this preparation for barter and sharing. My monthly bills also included a land line for the mission and a cell phone for my volunteer chaplain duty. When I heard the call to move into the computer ministry, an internet connection also became a monthly bill as well. I was still able to save some money! In that seven years of running that mission, I discovered how very little I actually needed and how content I was just to be serving YHWH, but He was still simplifying me.
Now, as I prepare for others to join or just continue to reach out in this area, I have an electric bill, a communication bill, and a feed bill, which are all paid monthly and still amount to less than $600.00 a month. I'm blessed with income from a business and book sales, but to this date, it hasn't put me in a new tax bracket. I do not live "poor as a squirrel" in winter, not at all! But, in over two decades, by the grace of YHWH and change of dependency, my cost of living has remained under $600.00 a month. When it comes to need and provision, one of the biggest lessons I've learned and believe I will teach others is just how little worldly wealth it takes when we realize YHWH truly is our Provider.
Sunday, August 30, 2015
Hone Those Talents
I went to town today and did a bit of stocking up. I want to be prepared to help. This is going to sound a bit selfish perhaps, but when others need help, I'd just as soon be able to hand them a can of tomatoes rather than a canning jar of tomatoes. Of course, I'll help if I can but I don't want to lose track of my jars. In this same trip, I discovered some very sad news, that seems to be marking an end to an era. It's weighed so heavily on my mind, I've had to double check blogs and articles to make sure the issue has not already been published, but I think I've just been talking about it to anyone and everyone.
In one of the many recent trips to town, I went by the Locker Plant I've patronized in the past. Last year, they told their customers they were reducing their operation hours to deer season only, but they would still process beef through that season. Since deer season is quickly approaching, I thought I might find someone at the place getting ready. Rather than finding anyone there, or a note on the door as to the opening day, the place was obviously beyond abandoned. The pens were all torn down, the refrigeration compressors were gone. Believe it or not, I really tried to justify those two looming facts by considering, the compressors sitting out in plain view when the business is closed 8 months would just be an invitation for theft and vandalism. As for the pens, since the focus now was primarily processing wild game, pens would really not be needed for dead animals. The mail box atop the pile of neatly stacked deconstructed pen sides jolted me out of my idealistic denial. There was only one more thing to check . . .
My little moment of denial came to a crashing halt and my fear confirmed, when I checked the meter box. The meter had been pulled. So, the next obvious thought of choice was, the elder generation had lived out his days and the descendants realized there really was no future career in a Locker Plant. That may be what did happen, I don't know. I know it was a family business that began right after WWII, just like the orchard up the highway that shuttered last year. I truly do hope and pray that the senior generation simply lived out their days with the kids and grandkids juggling their "real career" and helping grandpa. If that's the case, there's only one tragic detail to this story . . . Most in our society, even though they consume meat, do not raise their own meat, much less know how to process it.
In two years now, I've seen business shutter that were keeping alive the way of life that has sustained humanity throughout history. It's time to dust off those talents and learn how to produce and process our own food, while we still can, or hone some talents that will produce good products for fair barter.
In one of the many recent trips to town, I went by the Locker Plant I've patronized in the past. Last year, they told their customers they were reducing their operation hours to deer season only, but they would still process beef through that season. Since deer season is quickly approaching, I thought I might find someone at the place getting ready. Rather than finding anyone there, or a note on the door as to the opening day, the place was obviously beyond abandoned. The pens were all torn down, the refrigeration compressors were gone. Believe it or not, I really tried to justify those two looming facts by considering, the compressors sitting out in plain view when the business is closed 8 months would just be an invitation for theft and vandalism. As for the pens, since the focus now was primarily processing wild game, pens would really not be needed for dead animals. The mail box atop the pile of neatly stacked deconstructed pen sides jolted me out of my idealistic denial. There was only one more thing to check . . .
My little moment of denial came to a crashing halt and my fear confirmed, when I checked the meter box. The meter had been pulled. So, the next obvious thought of choice was, the elder generation had lived out his days and the descendants realized there really was no future career in a Locker Plant. That may be what did happen, I don't know. I know it was a family business that began right after WWII, just like the orchard up the highway that shuttered last year. I truly do hope and pray that the senior generation simply lived out their days with the kids and grandkids juggling their "real career" and helping grandpa. If that's the case, there's only one tragic detail to this story . . . Most in our society, even though they consume meat, do not raise their own meat, much less know how to process it.
In two years now, I've seen business shutter that were keeping alive the way of life that has sustained humanity throughout history. It's time to dust off those talents and learn how to produce and process our own food, while we still can, or hone some talents that will produce good products for fair barter.
Thursday, August 13, 2015
Our Value
Realizing most folks under 50 have no awareness of the way business was done for centuries upon centuries before the industrial revolution, I want to share a bit of information. Actually, if it weren't for my fellow congregants in synagogue, I'd have very little knowledge of this, myself; as the way of life I'm about to share basically disappeared through the late 50s and early 60s.
Before the industrial revolution, agriculture was the backbone of this nation and many nations, but not everyone farmed. There were businessmen who created and produced products, but they were still very much dependent upon agriculture, as we still are today. We just don't realize it because we, as a society, have so distanced ourselves from the basics. Before the Great Depression, there were businesses that thrived in towns across America, primarily family businesses in which the family lived in an apartment above the business. Actually, many of these downtown businesses survived the Great Depression and continued to flourish until the Interstate Highway system was built in the 50s bypassing the downtowns.
The downtown businesses were usually family operations that ranged from bakeries to grocery stores, even clothing shops and jewelry stores. Farmers had basically the same situation, only they worked the rural land that had been handed down to them, and often lived in the same farm house in which they'd been born. The point I'm making here, is men did not measure their self worth and success by their "toys" and extras, but by what their hands and hard work produced. Business people in town strove to create the finest apparel or long wearing leather craft, exquisite jewelry, or . . . a tangible product of worth. They were recognized for craftsmanship, rather than accumulation. Farmers strove to have the finest crops and healthy herds, rather than newest tractor and biggest house.
Now that our society has become intensely materialistic and entertainment oriented, one thing has remained consistent. Entrepreneurs do not need entertainment. The movers and shakers of this century are not sitting by idly awaiting the next gadget.
I've done a bit of figuring. When the farmers and businessmen of our history made their living and supported their families, their product, produce, and the manners of their children were a reflection of their success. Free time was considered laziness and extravagant extras were considered a sign of poor management. A good farmer or businessman didn't owe anyone. His value was not in what he made an hour, but what he built in life and what he would hand down to the next generation.
For the most part our society has stopped building and stopped investing. It takes a significant hourly wage to live for the moment! Quality craftsmanship has lasting value when applied and taught to the next generation. Land has lasting value, when worked. Hourly wages spent on entertainment and gadgets are gone very quickly, and soon forgotten. Life insurance has replaced inheritances and that basically makes the statement: "we are worth more dead than alive."
It's not too late to invest our G-d-given talents and invest in the next generation.
Before the industrial revolution, agriculture was the backbone of this nation and many nations, but not everyone farmed. There were businessmen who created and produced products, but they were still very much dependent upon agriculture, as we still are today. We just don't realize it because we, as a society, have so distanced ourselves from the basics. Before the Great Depression, there were businesses that thrived in towns across America, primarily family businesses in which the family lived in an apartment above the business. Actually, many of these downtown businesses survived the Great Depression and continued to flourish until the Interstate Highway system was built in the 50s bypassing the downtowns.
The downtown businesses were usually family operations that ranged from bakeries to grocery stores, even clothing shops and jewelry stores. Farmers had basically the same situation, only they worked the rural land that had been handed down to them, and often lived in the same farm house in which they'd been born. The point I'm making here, is men did not measure their self worth and success by their "toys" and extras, but by what their hands and hard work produced. Business people in town strove to create the finest apparel or long wearing leather craft, exquisite jewelry, or . . . a tangible product of worth. They were recognized for craftsmanship, rather than accumulation. Farmers strove to have the finest crops and healthy herds, rather than newest tractor and biggest house.
Now that our society has become intensely materialistic and entertainment oriented, one thing has remained consistent. Entrepreneurs do not need entertainment. The movers and shakers of this century are not sitting by idly awaiting the next gadget.
I've done a bit of figuring. When the farmers and businessmen of our history made their living and supported their families, their product, produce, and the manners of their children were a reflection of their success. Free time was considered laziness and extravagant extras were considered a sign of poor management. A good farmer or businessman didn't owe anyone. His value was not in what he made an hour, but what he built in life and what he would hand down to the next generation.
For the most part our society has stopped building and stopped investing. It takes a significant hourly wage to live for the moment! Quality craftsmanship has lasting value when applied and taught to the next generation. Land has lasting value, when worked. Hourly wages spent on entertainment and gadgets are gone very quickly, and soon forgotten. Life insurance has replaced inheritances and that basically makes the statement: "we are worth more dead than alive."
It's not too late to invest our G-d-given talents and invest in the next generation.
Thursday, July 16, 2015
Counting
Last year, when my folks were planning a visit, I'd asked Daddy to pick something up for me and I'd pay him when they came down . . . He wanted a cash transaction, so . . . I went to the bank to have the cash on me. I was a bit shocked when he stood in my kitchen and counted the money I gave him. I don't remember ever short changing him. If I did, it was certainly an accident and he never said anything. Maybe he just counts every transaction, as flesh and blood seemed to be no exception. It did give me pause to ever consider doing business with him again though. He's my Daddy, so it is what it is. My parents do keep track of every dime, so it probably isn't really a personal thing, but in light of the lifestyle I have and the business I do, it does seem odd.
I've sent many orders on the promise of a check and I've never been stiffed or received a bad check. Often times, someone includes a bit extra for my trouble or appreciation for working with them. I'm an honest business woman and I just don't believe in being terribly distrustful. I believe that is also an aspect of reaping and sowing. I sow honestly, I reap honesty . . .
In the past month, I've had three financial transactions that were not small, as far as I was concerned, yet the gentlemen all said the same thing. As I handed them the cash I repeated the amount we'd agreed upon and included the statement, "count it to make sure." One said, "You counted it didn't you?" to which I responded, "Yes." He responded with, "Then there's no need for me to count it." The other two simply took the money, never looked at it, and put it in their pocket, saying, "Thank you."
These were not small ticket items either. All of these cash transactions required a trip to the bank.
First there was the new deck. The price of lumber for a 10' X 28' deck was not cheap ten years ago, when I designed one that we built ourselves. This time the project was done professionally. What can I say? You do get what you pay for and I was delighted to pay for professional. As stated previously, when it came time to pay, this was the gentleman who, when I told him to be sure and count it, asked me if I'd counted it. When I nodded and said yes, he responded that there was no need for him to do it then, and handed the bank envelope to his son.
The next project was hiring a man fell some dead trees. He's a young business man and did an amazingly efficient job. He had to reschedule once due to a conflict of completion, but he called well ahead to reschedule, so I wasn't waiting on him, and the morning of the reschedule, he called to say he'd be on the place in within the hour. He was here within the hour, done, paid, and gone within the next hour! He just stuck the money in his pocket and away he went.
The third example really isn't as unique as the other two, in that I've known and done business with my hay man for several years now. He's always been consistent with quality and delivers quite timely whether scheduled or an unexpected need. He likes my soap and his wife likes several of my products, so we do business back and forth regularly. He's lived here his entire life and is well known and respected throughout the area. In country measure, we're practically neighbors, so for him to just take my money without counting doesn't seem so unusual. The fact that we are practically neighbors and have done business for a number of years, I'm sure has enhanced our trust level, but I've known Daddy longer than I've known my hayman. I'm truly thinking it's a matter of locale and simply "the way things are done" in this region. I like it!
I've sent many orders on the promise of a check and I've never been stiffed or received a bad check. Often times, someone includes a bit extra for my trouble or appreciation for working with them. I'm an honest business woman and I just don't believe in being terribly distrustful. I believe that is also an aspect of reaping and sowing. I sow honestly, I reap honesty . . .
In the past month, I've had three financial transactions that were not small, as far as I was concerned, yet the gentlemen all said the same thing. As I handed them the cash I repeated the amount we'd agreed upon and included the statement, "count it to make sure." One said, "You counted it didn't you?" to which I responded, "Yes." He responded with, "Then there's no need for me to count it." The other two simply took the money, never looked at it, and put it in their pocket, saying, "Thank you."
These were not small ticket items either. All of these cash transactions required a trip to the bank.
First there was the new deck. The price of lumber for a 10' X 28' deck was not cheap ten years ago, when I designed one that we built ourselves. This time the project was done professionally. What can I say? You do get what you pay for and I was delighted to pay for professional. As stated previously, when it came time to pay, this was the gentleman who, when I told him to be sure and count it, asked me if I'd counted it. When I nodded and said yes, he responded that there was no need for him to do it then, and handed the bank envelope to his son.
The next project was hiring a man fell some dead trees. He's a young business man and did an amazingly efficient job. He had to reschedule once due to a conflict of completion, but he called well ahead to reschedule, so I wasn't waiting on him, and the morning of the reschedule, he called to say he'd be on the place in within the hour. He was here within the hour, done, paid, and gone within the next hour! He just stuck the money in his pocket and away he went.
The third example really isn't as unique as the other two, in that I've known and done business with my hay man for several years now. He's always been consistent with quality and delivers quite timely whether scheduled or an unexpected need. He likes my soap and his wife likes several of my products, so we do business back and forth regularly. He's lived here his entire life and is well known and respected throughout the area. In country measure, we're practically neighbors, so for him to just take my money without counting doesn't seem so unusual. The fact that we are practically neighbors and have done business for a number of years, I'm sure has enhanced our trust level, but I've known Daddy longer than I've known my hayman. I'm truly thinking it's a matter of locale and simply "the way things are done" in this region. I like it!
Thursday, July 9, 2015
Glitches
A dear brother and I were talking a couple of weeks ago about what we thought could be expected here in the states. We spoke of Operation Jade Helm 15, same sex marriage, judgment, and the warning of High Alert Terrorist's Threats the week-end of the 4th. I told him, now that good is evil and evil is good, I did think there was reason to suspect serious problems, but I expected various glitches to begin to occur that seem relatively innocuous, isolated, and just a temporary inconvenience. I didn't really look for an overhead attack, but rather a crumbling from beneath.
The grounding of American Airlines seemed to be in line with my expectations. I was also following a friend's journey and there were several glitches in his train travels . . . that seemed what I expected. I wasn't expecting what happened, also today though, at least not on this scale. The New York Stock Exchange went down for a few hours, claiming it to be a glitch. The Wall Street Journal had issues, but what I heard in town today, threw me for a definite loop. The US Mint will has ceased producing silver American Eagle coins
When I saw the price of silver posted outside a jewelry store, I stopped. It's rather low right now. They didn't have any silver American Eagle coins, or rounds, or junk silver coins for that matter. He told me I could order whatever I wanted, pay for it today, plus shipping and he'd call me when they came in. Interestingly, he never mentioned the cessation of production, but simply stated they were back ordered. I told him I'd think about it and left.
In these times were are living, I won't buy money! Dollars and precious metals are an exchange only, for me. I'm happy to exchange some dollars for silver, I would for gold too, if I could afford it, but alas . . . At any rate, I refuse to purchase precious metals that are on "back order." I don't buy "certificates" of precious metal ownership, ether. That is risky business. Prepaying or just receiving a paper stating ownership seems no different than investing second hand in panning for gold or becoming part owner in a silver mine you've never seen.
I still didn't know the mint was not producing, but thinking my friend in town might have a bargain or two since prices were low, I went in to see him. That's where I learned the US Mint isn't minting silver dollars at this time. The fact that the mint is not producing for an indefinite period of time seems questionable in correlation with Shemitah, Operation Jade Helm 15, and the general heightened tension in this country. This has raised some questions in my mind.
Are the powers that be hoarding the silver" Or is there just none available? Are our lenders getting ready to call in the note? Is our currency about to be devalued further? Is the government getting ready to call in precious metals like they did gold in the 30s? Whatever the answer to any of these questions might be, it is clear we need to be ready for a potential major change to our current economy.
The grounding of American Airlines seemed to be in line with my expectations. I was also following a friend's journey and there were several glitches in his train travels . . . that seemed what I expected. I wasn't expecting what happened, also today though, at least not on this scale. The New York Stock Exchange went down for a few hours, claiming it to be a glitch. The Wall Street Journal had issues, but what I heard in town today, threw me for a definite loop. The US Mint will has ceased producing silver American Eagle coins
When I saw the price of silver posted outside a jewelry store, I stopped. It's rather low right now. They didn't have any silver American Eagle coins, or rounds, or junk silver coins for that matter. He told me I could order whatever I wanted, pay for it today, plus shipping and he'd call me when they came in. Interestingly, he never mentioned the cessation of production, but simply stated they were back ordered. I told him I'd think about it and left.
In these times were are living, I won't buy money! Dollars and precious metals are an exchange only, for me. I'm happy to exchange some dollars for silver, I would for gold too, if I could afford it, but alas . . . At any rate, I refuse to purchase precious metals that are on "back order." I don't buy "certificates" of precious metal ownership, ether. That is risky business. Prepaying or just receiving a paper stating ownership seems no different than investing second hand in panning for gold or becoming part owner in a silver mine you've never seen.
I still didn't know the mint was not producing, but thinking my friend in town might have a bargain or two since prices were low, I went in to see him. That's where I learned the US Mint isn't minting silver dollars at this time. The fact that the mint is not producing for an indefinite period of time seems questionable in correlation with Shemitah, Operation Jade Helm 15, and the general heightened tension in this country. This has raised some questions in my mind.
Are the powers that be hoarding the silver" Or is there just none available? Are our lenders getting ready to call in the note? Is our currency about to be devalued further? Is the government getting ready to call in precious metals like they did gold in the 30s? Whatever the answer to any of these questions might be, it is clear we need to be ready for a potential major change to our current economy.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
Earthly Economy
For those of us believing the Bible, we know the earthly economy is prophesied to ultimately exclude the remnant. The way things are looking, we probably should be working our way out of dependency and debt as quickly as possible, now. That's not to say our independence will happen overnight, but it won't happen at all if we don't start heading that direction. I personally would love to have the money to get a number of people all set up and out of debt, but money really isn't the answer. A new perspective is the foundation and the mind of Messiah is the path. We have to unlearn the programming that debt is the path to the American dream! It's time to wake up, smell the coffee, and look around! The dream has turned into a nightmare.
If I had it all to do over again, I'd of course, done a great many things differently. All glory to our Heavenly Father that He allowed me to get hold of this. It's still possible to live within one's means and remain debt free. I used to be real big on "homeownership," and I do own land and a home, but at this point in our existence, the only true advantage of home ownership is the rent can't go up. However; the taxes can and city codes can create expenses and frustration! I'm blessed to be in a very remote part of the county, and several miles from any city limits, but corporate government is gaining ground at every opportunity.
Now, as to my desire to help folks become less dependent, we have to get basic. By now, there is enough information available, I would think most of our society would see the hazards of not preparing our own food. In all the government paranoia and concern about invasion of privacy, I am absolutely offended when those same people insist upon putting my address into their GPS. We have to stop pretending there will be special protection and provision from our Creator, when we've chosen to use other means all along. Too many people think they will be ready to fend for themselves when it hits the fan, but they are still entirely dependent now. Unfortunately, I think many religious folks are scoping out their plan of moving their dependency from the government simply to another dependency.
Entirely too many Americans remain in constant need of assistance while claiming it to be of G-d. We've got to get away from that programmed thinking and it's not easy. There have been years and years of it woven into the very fabric of our society. According to the Word of G-d, rain in it's season, bountiful produce, full kneading bowls, and flocks and herds defined prosperity and were the results of obedience. A good credit rating was never promised as prosperity. A fat bank account wasn't mentioned in the list of blessings. An all powerful government is actually not a blessing at all, and as we can see; is actually unfolding to be quite a curse.
Come out from her my people. Think of one thing that is costing money and not really helping your spiritual or physical health and get it out of your life. I assure you, you will live through it. I got rid of my television years before I got a computer and my computer is still a desktop. I am not continually connected. Yes, the tax man knows my address and sadly, I now know I register on GPS, but I still maintain a certain autonomy in my dependency at this time. Eliminating "earthly dependency" is the key to eliminating debt. There are a lot of folks saying "G-d is all I need" but for most of us, those are just words. We've got to start disconnecting before the dependency and connections lead to captivity.
If I had it all to do over again, I'd of course, done a great many things differently. All glory to our Heavenly Father that He allowed me to get hold of this. It's still possible to live within one's means and remain debt free. I used to be real big on "homeownership," and I do own land and a home, but at this point in our existence, the only true advantage of home ownership is the rent can't go up. However; the taxes can and city codes can create expenses and frustration! I'm blessed to be in a very remote part of the county, and several miles from any city limits, but corporate government is gaining ground at every opportunity.
Now, as to my desire to help folks become less dependent, we have to get basic. By now, there is enough information available, I would think most of our society would see the hazards of not preparing our own food. In all the government paranoia and concern about invasion of privacy, I am absolutely offended when those same people insist upon putting my address into their GPS. We have to stop pretending there will be special protection and provision from our Creator, when we've chosen to use other means all along. Too many people think they will be ready to fend for themselves when it hits the fan, but they are still entirely dependent now. Unfortunately, I think many religious folks are scoping out their plan of moving their dependency from the government simply to another dependency.
Entirely too many Americans remain in constant need of assistance while claiming it to be of G-d. We've got to get away from that programmed thinking and it's not easy. There have been years and years of it woven into the very fabric of our society. According to the Word of G-d, rain in it's season, bountiful produce, full kneading bowls, and flocks and herds defined prosperity and were the results of obedience. A good credit rating was never promised as prosperity. A fat bank account wasn't mentioned in the list of blessings. An all powerful government is actually not a blessing at all, and as we can see; is actually unfolding to be quite a curse.
Come out from her my people. Think of one thing that is costing money and not really helping your spiritual or physical health and get it out of your life. I assure you, you will live through it. I got rid of my television years before I got a computer and my computer is still a desktop. I am not continually connected. Yes, the tax man knows my address and sadly, I now know I register on GPS, but I still maintain a certain autonomy in my dependency at this time. Eliminating "earthly dependency" is the key to eliminating debt. There are a lot of folks saying "G-d is all I need" but for most of us, those are just words. We've got to start disconnecting before the dependency and connections lead to captivity.
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Management and Priorities
Have you ever heard someone talk about how generous they would be if they ever "hit it big?" I've heard people talk about how much they'd donate if they win the lottery or how much they'd give to charity if they ever became wealthy. Then there are those with a steady income, always in some sort of financial crisis, regularly relying on the kindness of others, who basically have the same income. The problem is really not in dollars and cents, but in management and priorities. I'm not preaching the trendy prosperity message here, but there are a number of Scriptures that do state our Creator will provide. I realize there are many who are perpetually in need that believe He uses their circle of influence to make that provision, but I'm not so sure I agree with that, especially when it appears to be perpetual.
My monthly income is not large, but as a rule, my expenses are not large either. What I have noticed is when Abba brings someone my way for assistance, the provision is available. Another factor that is really becoming plain, is the number of folks who really wouldn't need financial assistance if they were open to learning financial management and realign their priorities. Our nation has cheated at least three generations from good old fashioned money management skills and encouraged debt beyond what anyone can repay.
Not everyone is waiting for the powerball or an inheritance. Some folks are just sure when they get a raise, everything is going to suddenly fall into place. I've even heard folks tell me when they get a raise, then they'll be able to afford to tithe and save . . . A tithe is a percentage. I realize the current religious jury is out on determining just what we need to do in the area of tithing, but when someone thinks they need to make more money to have 10%, their base thinking is skewed. It is completely possible with US currency to have and give 10% of a dime . . . it's called a penny. A dime is 10% of a dollar, so if financial tithing is enough of a priority to mention "when it's affordable," it's time to reconsider the perspective, and factor in that perhaps the lack of giving is the cause of the financial strain. I'm not talking about a mega church building fund here, either; but giving for the glory of YHWH.
The people who are the most giving, simply give of what they have. The most generous people don't usually have the most in life, but are content with what they have. I'm reminded of the poor widow's mite. She didn't say, when she was as wealthy as the Pharisees or the tax collectors that she'd give, NO, she gave what she had.
There are a number of folks, myself included that get taken in with the idea that if we regularly help our grown kids, it's somehow righteous. Ninety percent of the time, we're operating in guilt and/or control, rather than righteous servants of the Most High. If our grown kids regularly need to be subsidised and bailed out, then we didn't teach them properly, and if we continue to subsidise we're enabling. Even with all the tithing debate, there is no way on "G-d's green earth" to even remotely label the subsidizing of grown children as ministry.
A man who made a very nice living, but was still struggling told me if he could just make so many more dollars an hour, he'd be set. When he shared the amount of his current income, it was all I could do to maintain a poker face. I couldn't imagine someone just blowing through that kind of money every month. I literally could not wrap my mind around it. It was in my moment of shock and silence, I heard the still small voice telling me. "those who are faithful in the little things will be given much." I was then able to look at him with compassion and simply state. "G-d won't give you more of what you are already struggling to handle."
For those who are hoping a windfall or a raise solves the problems, it won't. For those with "big plans" if the ship ever comes in, it likely won't. There are actually sad statistics for those who have received a windfall of one kind or another who are now bankrupt. Stewardship is almost a forgotten word in spiritual teaching, but it needs to come back. Financial management and G-dly priorities are part of our witness. Paying our bills is part of our witness. I don't believe prosperity comes from the lottery or from donating to a televangelist, but from obedient stewardship, conscientious management, and being content with what we have.
As for being a financial hero when the big money comes in . . . Yeah right. What are we doing to improve our little corner where we are with what YHWH has given us?
Whether it's entitlements or just constant complaining about one's income, it boils down to one of two things. Either G-d isn't providing or we're wanting what someone else has.
Thou shalt not covet . . .
My monthly income is not large, but as a rule, my expenses are not large either. What I have noticed is when Abba brings someone my way for assistance, the provision is available. Another factor that is really becoming plain, is the number of folks who really wouldn't need financial assistance if they were open to learning financial management and realign their priorities. Our nation has cheated at least three generations from good old fashioned money management skills and encouraged debt beyond what anyone can repay.
Not everyone is waiting for the powerball or an inheritance. Some folks are just sure when they get a raise, everything is going to suddenly fall into place. I've even heard folks tell me when they get a raise, then they'll be able to afford to tithe and save . . . A tithe is a percentage. I realize the current religious jury is out on determining just what we need to do in the area of tithing, but when someone thinks they need to make more money to have 10%, their base thinking is skewed. It is completely possible with US currency to have and give 10% of a dime . . . it's called a penny. A dime is 10% of a dollar, so if financial tithing is enough of a priority to mention "when it's affordable," it's time to reconsider the perspective, and factor in that perhaps the lack of giving is the cause of the financial strain. I'm not talking about a mega church building fund here, either; but giving for the glory of YHWH.
The people who are the most giving, simply give of what they have. The most generous people don't usually have the most in life, but are content with what they have. I'm reminded of the poor widow's mite. She didn't say, when she was as wealthy as the Pharisees or the tax collectors that she'd give, NO, she gave what she had.
There are a number of folks, myself included that get taken in with the idea that if we regularly help our grown kids, it's somehow righteous. Ninety percent of the time, we're operating in guilt and/or control, rather than righteous servants of the Most High. If our grown kids regularly need to be subsidised and bailed out, then we didn't teach them properly, and if we continue to subsidise we're enabling. Even with all the tithing debate, there is no way on "G-d's green earth" to even remotely label the subsidizing of grown children as ministry.
A man who made a very nice living, but was still struggling told me if he could just make so many more dollars an hour, he'd be set. When he shared the amount of his current income, it was all I could do to maintain a poker face. I couldn't imagine someone just blowing through that kind of money every month. I literally could not wrap my mind around it. It was in my moment of shock and silence, I heard the still small voice telling me. "those who are faithful in the little things will be given much." I was then able to look at him with compassion and simply state. "G-d won't give you more of what you are already struggling to handle."
For those who are hoping a windfall or a raise solves the problems, it won't. For those with "big plans" if the ship ever comes in, it likely won't. There are actually sad statistics for those who have received a windfall of one kind or another who are now bankrupt. Stewardship is almost a forgotten word in spiritual teaching, but it needs to come back. Financial management and G-dly priorities are part of our witness. Paying our bills is part of our witness. I don't believe prosperity comes from the lottery or from donating to a televangelist, but from obedient stewardship, conscientious management, and being content with what we have.
As for being a financial hero when the big money comes in . . . Yeah right. What are we doing to improve our little corner where we are with what YHWH has given us?
Whether it's entitlements or just constant complaining about one's income, it boils down to one of two things. Either G-d isn't providing or we're wanting what someone else has.
Thou shalt not covet . . .
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Assistance
The last couple of weeks I've noticed a real upsurge in requests for financial assistance and spiritual advice regarding money across social media. Although I don't consider myself to be wealthy, I do know YHWH is my provider, provides well, and I'm debt free, but I am still in this world and like it or not, some things require money. I'm heading off grid to eventually pay no electric bill, but to do that requires me to purchase a battery bank, and even if I could make solar panels and wind turbines, I can't make them out of air and rocks. I do know there is a day coming in which buying and selling will not be an option without the mark, therefore; I am investing now for what I think we may need then.
I offer financial assistance in some situations and in others I offer products as a gift, but truth be told, some situations actually need financial management instruction and work ethic motivation. I do not subsidize poor money management. I can't afford to! As long as we are in this world, before Messiah returns, we have to accept the fact that life in this world is not free. Of all things the public education does not teach and parents tend to not prepare children for is budgeting. Oh, I grew up being made to have a savings account and tithe, but other than being told how much and when, I was clueless. I had to learn by trial and unfortunately error . . .
That is why I truly want to help people, not just throw money at them and certainly not judge them. Many folks have not been taught good financial planning or budgeting, and sadly today there are few examples of a good work ethic. Knowing, my entire adult life, I had to make it on my own, I really would like to help folks budget for independence and develop a strong work ethic that will carry them through their life. Yes YHWH does provide, but part of His provision is giving us talents to use to make a living. It's not about "making money" it's about using our talents to provide for our life and family. Some of that provision will involve money, but much of our life really doesn't need to. We just haven't really been taught a good way of money management and prioritizing is difficult for nearly everyone.
I realize any of us can fall on hard times and the economic condition of our country is alarming, which is all the more reason to learn a better way of money management and less dependency on our current system. I am not advising people to exchange their dollars for silver, at this time, but I wholeheartedly recommend whittling down the number of dollars you depend upon in life. We have to prioritize and the priorities are shelter and food to start with, then other things. David wrote that he'd never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging . . . Paul penned that we are to be content with what we have, where we are.
We've been programmed to believe our worth is based upon our possessions and the terms rest and entertainment have been exchanged in the connecting term "leisure." This nation has produced two generations, going on three now that are of age for the work force, but programmed to believe their leisure time should be their top priority. Scripturally, leisure time isn't even an issue and a good life provides it's own entertainment!
I offer financial assistance in some situations and in others I offer products as a gift, but truth be told, some situations actually need financial management instruction and work ethic motivation. I do not subsidize poor money management. I can't afford to! As long as we are in this world, before Messiah returns, we have to accept the fact that life in this world is not free. Of all things the public education does not teach and parents tend to not prepare children for is budgeting. Oh, I grew up being made to have a savings account and tithe, but other than being told how much and when, I was clueless. I had to learn by trial and unfortunately error . . .
That is why I truly want to help people, not just throw money at them and certainly not judge them. Many folks have not been taught good financial planning or budgeting, and sadly today there are few examples of a good work ethic. Knowing, my entire adult life, I had to make it on my own, I really would like to help folks budget for independence and develop a strong work ethic that will carry them through their life. Yes YHWH does provide, but part of His provision is giving us talents to use to make a living. It's not about "making money" it's about using our talents to provide for our life and family. Some of that provision will involve money, but much of our life really doesn't need to. We just haven't really been taught a good way of money management and prioritizing is difficult for nearly everyone.
I realize any of us can fall on hard times and the economic condition of our country is alarming, which is all the more reason to learn a better way of money management and less dependency on our current system. I am not advising people to exchange their dollars for silver, at this time, but I wholeheartedly recommend whittling down the number of dollars you depend upon in life. We have to prioritize and the priorities are shelter and food to start with, then other things. David wrote that he'd never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging . . . Paul penned that we are to be content with what we have, where we are.
We've been programmed to believe our worth is based upon our possessions and the terms rest and entertainment have been exchanged in the connecting term "leisure." This nation has produced two generations, going on three now that are of age for the work force, but programmed to believe their leisure time should be their top priority. Scripturally, leisure time isn't even an issue and a good life provides it's own entertainment!
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Your Call is Important
When did ministry become a money making career for so many? I realize back when our society in general was more religious, rabbis and pastors were dealing with congregants nearly every day. Although rabbis often had their own homes, many pastors lived in the parsonage. Even with rabbis living in their own homes, the Jewish community was established for all be within walking distance of the synagogue on Shabbat. Parsonage, for all practical purposes has become an archaic term.
Much of the ministry in America has become politically and economically powerful with ministers living large and rabbis being quite influential. I'm not suggesting for a moment that servants of YHWH should live like squirrels in winter, not at all, but the reality of the matter is pretty simple. If the religious organizations were actually fulfilling their true purpose, a 501c3 would be unnecessary. Taking care of widows, orphans, and veterans would probably keep most religious organizations quite busy, and certainly below any tax bracket. Actually working in our specified call would eliminate a great deal of unnecessary travel and activities that are truly "uncalled" for. A great many false prophecies and teachings would be eliminated if folks actually walked and worked in their call.
Now, does that mean a pastor should not give a call to repentance and wait for the evangelist? Absolutely not, but it does mean a pastor doesn't need to be jet setting all over the world, if he is called to shepherd a flock. Evangelists and prophets should probably be the ones doing most of the traveling, and teachers should be teaching by example first, and words second! Apostles are trailblazers and missionaries, so they are usually led to establish, then outreach in meeting the needs around them, but also to welcome and work with the other four offices of ministry.
Not that I am claiming to have all the organization or administrative answers, but the duties of the five offices are explained throughout Scripture. There's no need for so much overlap and confusion, and no need for anything to be going undone. And as for widows, orphans, and folks in need, every child of G-d is called to meet those needs when they become aware of them. I do believe it would be amazing for all five calls to be working together in ministries. I continue to pray for that, here and in other areas as well.
It's time for pastors to tend the flock and live within respectable means. It's time for teachers to realize the best lesson is a good example. It's time for prophets to sound the warnings and evangelists to tell the whole Gospel which includes Torah obedience, and it's time for folks to get results from apostles and elders without the need of hospitals. A 501c3 is completely unnecessary and ministry should not be a business!
Much of the ministry in America has become politically and economically powerful with ministers living large and rabbis being quite influential. I'm not suggesting for a moment that servants of YHWH should live like squirrels in winter, not at all, but the reality of the matter is pretty simple. If the religious organizations were actually fulfilling their true purpose, a 501c3 would be unnecessary. Taking care of widows, orphans, and veterans would probably keep most religious organizations quite busy, and certainly below any tax bracket. Actually working in our specified call would eliminate a great deal of unnecessary travel and activities that are truly "uncalled" for. A great many false prophecies and teachings would be eliminated if folks actually walked and worked in their call.
Now, does that mean a pastor should not give a call to repentance and wait for the evangelist? Absolutely not, but it does mean a pastor doesn't need to be jet setting all over the world, if he is called to shepherd a flock. Evangelists and prophets should probably be the ones doing most of the traveling, and teachers should be teaching by example first, and words second! Apostles are trailblazers and missionaries, so they are usually led to establish, then outreach in meeting the needs around them, but also to welcome and work with the other four offices of ministry.
Not that I am claiming to have all the organization or administrative answers, but the duties of the five offices are explained throughout Scripture. There's no need for so much overlap and confusion, and no need for anything to be going undone. And as for widows, orphans, and folks in need, every child of G-d is called to meet those needs when they become aware of them. I do believe it would be amazing for all five calls to be working together in ministries. I continue to pray for that, here and in other areas as well.
It's time for pastors to tend the flock and live within respectable means. It's time for teachers to realize the best lesson is a good example. It's time for prophets to sound the warnings and evangelists to tell the whole Gospel which includes Torah obedience, and it's time for folks to get results from apostles and elders without the need of hospitals. A 501c3 is completely unnecessary and ministry should not be a business!
Sunday, May 31, 2015
Monday, May 25, 2015
Sold Out or Sold Out?
It seems these days, all the religious folk know each other's lingo and the secular world is filled with Biblical experts who don't choose to embrace a Scriptural lifestyle while enabling them to judge all believers. The world is getting to be a confusing place to exist. I found myself only half interested in a group discussion in social media today. As the comments droned on and on, I found myself really disgusted that I had ever entered a comment at all. Sometimes I simply erase my comments, but this particular thread wasn't even worth going back to. Oh the little boxes on my news feed would pop up and say someone had mentioned me in a comment, but it just didn't matter. There are so many more important things a servant of the Most High could and should be doing, besides debating Hebrew and Greek jots and tittles.
One of the simplest statements that we should really address and assess, personally is: "Sold Out." Are we sold out? Or have we sold out? It's so easy to confuse the statement or misunderstand the inference, especially when we want to feel religiously right. How easy it is to consider oneself a "teacher" or even "rabbi" on social media, expounding the difference between jots and tittles, while those who do not have eyes to see and ears to hear, remain blind and deaf or literally: starve and drown! This week has been particularly troublesome in this area.
Have we sold out? I'm beginning to wonder. As we discuss hermeneutics and eschatology, who is tending to the widows and orphans? As we chastise others for their lack of compassion for the homeless and hungry, how expensive is our dinner? As we debate the latest "revelation" of "love thy neighbor vs. the law," what does it really cost to share the Good News with our neighbors? I am personally, so tired, of those who would attack the 1%, while having their luxury cars and hobby supplies. Just who is standing in the gap on behalf of the land? Although I agree that no one needs a CEO salary in the millions, folks really don't NEED two vehicles, unless two people are heading opposite directions to work every day. And as much as I would like to judge the capitalists, entitlementalists annoy me too, even if it's not a recognized word . . . yet.
Judging Joel Osteen and Oprah is Scriptural according to righteous judgement, but if one isn't living according to Scripture, there is no claim to "righteous judgment." Secular folks, or religious folks, name-calling those who disagree with them are still hypocrites. At least the Pharisees thought they were being devout! We simply cannot be "sold out" to Messiah, if we've sold out in any area of compromise or self-righteousness.
One of the simplest statements that we should really address and assess, personally is: "Sold Out." Are we sold out? Or have we sold out? It's so easy to confuse the statement or misunderstand the inference, especially when we want to feel religiously right. How easy it is to consider oneself a "teacher" or even "rabbi" on social media, expounding the difference between jots and tittles, while those who do not have eyes to see and ears to hear, remain blind and deaf or literally: starve and drown! This week has been particularly troublesome in this area.
Have we sold out? I'm beginning to wonder. As we discuss hermeneutics and eschatology, who is tending to the widows and orphans? As we chastise others for their lack of compassion for the homeless and hungry, how expensive is our dinner? As we debate the latest "revelation" of "love thy neighbor vs. the law," what does it really cost to share the Good News with our neighbors? I am personally, so tired, of those who would attack the 1%, while having their luxury cars and hobby supplies. Just who is standing in the gap on behalf of the land? Although I agree that no one needs a CEO salary in the millions, folks really don't NEED two vehicles, unless two people are heading opposite directions to work every day. And as much as I would like to judge the capitalists, entitlementalists annoy me too, even if it's not a recognized word . . . yet.
Judging Joel Osteen and Oprah is Scriptural according to righteous judgement, but if one isn't living according to Scripture, there is no claim to "righteous judgment." Secular folks, or religious folks, name-calling those who disagree with them are still hypocrites. At least the Pharisees thought they were being devout! We simply cannot be "sold out" to Messiah, if we've sold out in any area of compromise or self-righteousness.
Sunday, May 10, 2015
Business Values in a Free Market
What happened to being able to conduct business according to your moral values? What's so wrong with a business person with personal values? I'd rather do business with someone who valued their own integrity and reputation. In the past several months, I've taken note of more than one situation in which someone claiming to stand on Biblical principles is sued, threatened, or fined, while those who oppose are actually lauded and applauded.
Last week we ran a couple of links in which one company was fined for refusing service. When that news hit social media, a gofundme page was set up. Gofundme, however; took the page down. The claim was made that the people could keep what had been collected, but gofundme was not willing to "do business" in this case. Let's consider for a moment that this online collection company undoubtedly has every possible loophole included in its "terms of service" and let's even assume someone actually read the entirety of the terms of service page before hitting "I agree," something is still missing. Gofundme is not a religious organization, and it does make a percentage from each donation, but since the fine had to do with a state law, Gofundme had a way out. I haven't checked to see if there are any gofundme pages to raise bail or pay a traffic ticket . . . gofundme has already lost my business.
The point I'm making here is honesty and integrity are being legislated out of doing business. I'll be crass and crude for just a moment. I saw the photo of the two lesbians who targeted this small business. I've also seen the photo of the florist that was targeted for refusing service for a gay wedding. You can't tell me there isn't a gay florist nearby that would have been happy to provide arrangements, bouquets/boutonnieres for the wedding. That is not being stereotypical, or maybe it is. In my previous town, I frequently did business with a florist who was openly gay. I never asked him to make arrangements for a wedding, though. But this isn't about me, this is about some companies being able to choose who they do business with, while others are not able to choose.
Now on to my crass, crudeness. That baker could have simply told the two women she would bake their cake, but . . . A friend of mine suggested he would take photos of a gay wedding but tell them upfront, every dime he made would be donated to an organization that speaks out against the LGBT agenda. That's one idea. Another one, since you know you'd be targeted, is to make just enough comments as to cause them to wonder if you'd put anything unpleasant in their cake . . . then after they paid for the cake and had it analyzed, the cake would be ruined but no unpleasant additive would be found. Then, of course, there might be the temptation to just get on their level, smile sweetly, take their detailed order, and lick the beaters . . . before making the cake.
To legislate against values and integrity could have some very disturbing results that congest the court system for years to come.
Last week we ran a couple of links in which one company was fined for refusing service. When that news hit social media, a gofundme page was set up. Gofundme, however; took the page down. The claim was made that the people could keep what had been collected, but gofundme was not willing to "do business" in this case. Let's consider for a moment that this online collection company undoubtedly has every possible loophole included in its "terms of service" and let's even assume someone actually read the entirety of the terms of service page before hitting "I agree," something is still missing. Gofundme is not a religious organization, and it does make a percentage from each donation, but since the fine had to do with a state law, Gofundme had a way out. I haven't checked to see if there are any gofundme pages to raise bail or pay a traffic ticket . . . gofundme has already lost my business.
The point I'm making here is honesty and integrity are being legislated out of doing business. I'll be crass and crude for just a moment. I saw the photo of the two lesbians who targeted this small business. I've also seen the photo of the florist that was targeted for refusing service for a gay wedding. You can't tell me there isn't a gay florist nearby that would have been happy to provide arrangements, bouquets/boutonnieres for the wedding. That is not being stereotypical, or maybe it is. In my previous town, I frequently did business with a florist who was openly gay. I never asked him to make arrangements for a wedding, though. But this isn't about me, this is about some companies being able to choose who they do business with, while others are not able to choose.
Now on to my crass, crudeness. That baker could have simply told the two women she would bake their cake, but . . . A friend of mine suggested he would take photos of a gay wedding but tell them upfront, every dime he made would be donated to an organization that speaks out against the LGBT agenda. That's one idea. Another one, since you know you'd be targeted, is to make just enough comments as to cause them to wonder if you'd put anything unpleasant in their cake . . . then after they paid for the cake and had it analyzed, the cake would be ruined but no unpleasant additive would be found. Then, of course, there might be the temptation to just get on their level, smile sweetly, take their detailed order, and lick the beaters . . . before making the cake.
To legislate against values and integrity could have some very disturbing results that congest the court system for years to come.
Sunday, May 3, 2015
Banking Fees
It's not bad enough that interest rates are flat and have been for years, while banks think of more and more fees to add for "their services."
It's bad enough that many actually have to pay an ATM service charge to receive their automatically deposited, hard earned money.
In the link below, it's reported that one bank will actually be charging for cash deposits.
http://www.naturalnews.com/049566_bank_deposits_money_cash_crisis.html
It's bad enough that many actually have to pay an ATM service charge to receive their automatically deposited, hard earned money.
In the link below, it's reported that one bank will actually be charging for cash deposits.
http://www.naturalnews.com/049566_bank_deposits_money_cash_crisis.html
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Time to Stop Investing in Poverty
I have long held the belief that the religious Prosperity teaching began the collapse of the American economy, and I still do, but I now have some insight as to why the economy is not recovering. To claim the love of money was a blessing rather than the root of all evil began the economic collapse, but we've overlooked the Biblical truth of reaping and sowing when it comes to finances.
How much of our earned income goes to keeping someone living beyond their means? In modern vernacular, that amounts to throwing good money after bad. It defies the laws of reaping and sowing. Helping someone in time of need is absolutely Scriptural, but we have a society of needy than choose to remain needy, and that's against Scripture. A man or woman can get laid off or injured and need temporary assistance. Things happen, but when an adult perpetually does not provide for their family, either by not working or by unwise spending, and continual provision is "needed" for that family, not only is that family investing in remaining impoverished, but those providing are sowing into that lifestyle, as well.
Surely by now, most folks sending money to Prosperity preachers realize they are never going to reap the financial harvest, these preachers are enjoying. I guess, some still haven't caught on, or the next generation of "young up and comers" have changed their schtick slightly, but there is still a reality. Assisting someone to live above their means will not raise the standard of living for all involved. It will actually lower it for those who are in error and those who appear to be reaping a harvest may discover the cost has been their soul. These ministers do not need multi-million dollar mansions and private jets. Y'hshuwah said he had no place to lay his head and he pretty much walked everywhere he went, although there was the occasional boat or donkey.
Another way our society invests in poverty is politically, through state assistance. Helping someone temporarily is absolutely the right thing to do. Keeping someone dependent is wrong, and subsidising someone to live without working to earn is rebellion against Scripture. Adult human beings are supposed to work, adult human beings that make little human beings are not only expected to work, but also expected to provide for the little human beings they made. Since marriage has become rather passe, our society has taught men that providing for their children is optional especially if they cohabitate with baby mama and keep everything out of court. On the other hand, many women have determined that a child brings them an income and even education opportunities with childcare provided. We can look back over fifty years and see what this type of thinking has produced generationally. Like it or not, this type of poverty is purely political. Dependency and slavery go hand in hand.
We also have a number of people investing in the poverty of the next generation. I've seen it happen for far too long now, grandmas that take up the cause that their grandchildren shouldn't suffer or do without because the parents are being unwise. Sad as it is, that children pay for the foolishness of adults, it is a fact of life. Helping adult children in an emergency, is of course, what a parent should do, enabling is another matter, altogether. We don't even realize how many non-necessities our society now considers to be necessary.
So much of our society runs on debt that we no longer live even paycheck to paycheck. Many in our culture are living one paycheck behind, because next week's check is already spent before it's earned . . . People actually manage or mismanage their money, knowing they have other sources to turn to. Let's consider the high dollar prosperity teachers and the wealthy politicians, and corporate fatcats. They do not invest in poverty! They invest our donations, taxes, and purchases into something that will yield a financial harvest. I'm not suggesting that is Biblically correct, either, just drawing the parallel of money management. Now, on to Scriptural investing.
We are commanded to help widows and orphans. YHWH blesses obedience. Prosperity teachers, most welfare moms, and campaigning politicians do not go in the category of widows or orphans. We are to visit those in prison. A number of prosperity teachers and politicians probably could qualify for that according to Scripture. The best way to help those who are not self-sufficient is to share and teach better money management. Debt is not the answer and continuing to subsidise poor choices is investing in poverty.
How much of our earned income goes to keeping someone living beyond their means? In modern vernacular, that amounts to throwing good money after bad. It defies the laws of reaping and sowing. Helping someone in time of need is absolutely Scriptural, but we have a society of needy than choose to remain needy, and that's against Scripture. A man or woman can get laid off or injured and need temporary assistance. Things happen, but when an adult perpetually does not provide for their family, either by not working or by unwise spending, and continual provision is "needed" for that family, not only is that family investing in remaining impoverished, but those providing are sowing into that lifestyle, as well.
Surely by now, most folks sending money to Prosperity preachers realize they are never going to reap the financial harvest, these preachers are enjoying. I guess, some still haven't caught on, or the next generation of "young up and comers" have changed their schtick slightly, but there is still a reality. Assisting someone to live above their means will not raise the standard of living for all involved. It will actually lower it for those who are in error and those who appear to be reaping a harvest may discover the cost has been their soul. These ministers do not need multi-million dollar mansions and private jets. Y'hshuwah said he had no place to lay his head and he pretty much walked everywhere he went, although there was the occasional boat or donkey.
Another way our society invests in poverty is politically, through state assistance. Helping someone temporarily is absolutely the right thing to do. Keeping someone dependent is wrong, and subsidising someone to live without working to earn is rebellion against Scripture. Adult human beings are supposed to work, adult human beings that make little human beings are not only expected to work, but also expected to provide for the little human beings they made. Since marriage has become rather passe, our society has taught men that providing for their children is optional especially if they cohabitate with baby mama and keep everything out of court. On the other hand, many women have determined that a child brings them an income and even education opportunities with childcare provided. We can look back over fifty years and see what this type of thinking has produced generationally. Like it or not, this type of poverty is purely political. Dependency and slavery go hand in hand.
We also have a number of people investing in the poverty of the next generation. I've seen it happen for far too long now, grandmas that take up the cause that their grandchildren shouldn't suffer or do without because the parents are being unwise. Sad as it is, that children pay for the foolishness of adults, it is a fact of life. Helping adult children in an emergency, is of course, what a parent should do, enabling is another matter, altogether. We don't even realize how many non-necessities our society now considers to be necessary.
So much of our society runs on debt that we no longer live even paycheck to paycheck. Many in our culture are living one paycheck behind, because next week's check is already spent before it's earned . . . People actually manage or mismanage their money, knowing they have other sources to turn to. Let's consider the high dollar prosperity teachers and the wealthy politicians, and corporate fatcats. They do not invest in poverty! They invest our donations, taxes, and purchases into something that will yield a financial harvest. I'm not suggesting that is Biblically correct, either, just drawing the parallel of money management. Now, on to Scriptural investing.
We are commanded to help widows and orphans. YHWH blesses obedience. Prosperity teachers, most welfare moms, and campaigning politicians do not go in the category of widows or orphans. We are to visit those in prison. A number of prosperity teachers and politicians probably could qualify for that according to Scripture. The best way to help those who are not self-sufficient is to share and teach better money management. Debt is not the answer and continuing to subsidise poor choices is investing in poverty.
Monday, April 20, 2015
We've Been Sold Out
It's no secret that America is in deep debt. The means of figuring the budget vs. collecting the revenue, while estimating increases and decreases is mind boggling at best, and completely convoluted using more than one system of accounting.
I've included a link to an interesting site. I don't necessarily agree with the figures proposed, but then again, with two different methods of accounting, I certainly can't prove any disagreement, either.
http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:http://www.justfactsdaily.com/treasury-report-federal-fiscal-shortfall-is-603000-per-household/
We can be sure that the can has been kicked down the road so far into future generations, the debt problem will never be fixed by current methods. When "the note" is called in, Americans will have no alternative but to change, completely change, our lifestyle.
According to my research and understanding, every American citizen is collateral toward the debt. Marriage licenses are a contract with the state. A birth certificate declares the increase of collateral, therefore greater borrowing power, and a social security number declares a labor force. Social security numbers have gone from "not intended for identification" issued at the age to get a driver's license or gainful employment to the application completed with a newborn's birth certificate and required to be claimed as a deduction on the parent's tax form. This has happened in less than 50 years, and we've only had a social security system for 80 years.
The ownership of Americans is obviously not a new concept, but forcing younger generations into indebtedness without their knowledge or consent is reprehensible. Someone has to stop the madness. We can't erase the debt that has been accrued, but we can certainly determine to stop creating further debt. How can Americans willingly and knowingly surrender our grandchildren into indentured servitude for our own comfort or convenience? Blaming the government for "selling us out" may work to salve the conscience of those who would cash the checks, but the fact of the matter is, the establishment generations are selling out the younger ones. That makes absolutely no sense in a society that bases their primary religious beliefs on the writings of the Apostle Paul, who stated . . . I will not be burdensome to you . . . for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. II Corinthians 12:14b
I've included a link to an interesting site. I don't necessarily agree with the figures proposed, but then again, with two different methods of accounting, I certainly can't prove any disagreement, either.
http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:http://www.justfactsdaily.com/treasury-report-federal-fiscal-shortfall-is-603000-per-household/
We can be sure that the can has been kicked down the road so far into future generations, the debt problem will never be fixed by current methods. When "the note" is called in, Americans will have no alternative but to change, completely change, our lifestyle.
According to my research and understanding, every American citizen is collateral toward the debt. Marriage licenses are a contract with the state. A birth certificate declares the increase of collateral, therefore greater borrowing power, and a social security number declares a labor force. Social security numbers have gone from "not intended for identification" issued at the age to get a driver's license or gainful employment to the application completed with a newborn's birth certificate and required to be claimed as a deduction on the parent's tax form. This has happened in less than 50 years, and we've only had a social security system for 80 years.
The ownership of Americans is obviously not a new concept, but forcing younger generations into indebtedness without their knowledge or consent is reprehensible. Someone has to stop the madness. We can't erase the debt that has been accrued, but we can certainly determine to stop creating further debt. How can Americans willingly and knowingly surrender our grandchildren into indentured servitude for our own comfort or convenience? Blaming the government for "selling us out" may work to salve the conscience of those who would cash the checks, but the fact of the matter is, the establishment generations are selling out the younger ones. That makes absolutely no sense in a society that bases their primary religious beliefs on the writings of the Apostle Paul, who stated . . . I will not be burdensome to you . . . for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. II Corinthians 12:14b
Sunday, April 12, 2015
Investing in Temporal
This past week as I munched unleavened bread, I took inventory of the place. The two prior weeks, I took inventory of dust bunnies and leaven. Now, in the clean brightness, I considered what I've invested in temporal things. By temporal, I mean shelter, furniture, vehicles, even the wind turbine and solar panels. One of my daughters got me thinking about the way I spend my money vs. the way she spends hers. She's been quick to point out that I spend more than she would on domains and webhosting and I need to shop around more. She's also expressed that a thousand dollars worth of batteries to go with the wind and solar power supply seems excessive. By that same token, she doesn't think I purchase quality, when it comes to furniture and dishes. She does think I get great deals on vehicles though!
Now, when I consider the way others spend money, I quickly realize, I probably seem cheap. When I consider the way that same daughter spends her money, I realize she simply did not receive her set of values from me. As I aim for sustainable living, there are investments. I would love to have only a bill for my internet provider, while the internet is still an option and a monthly trip to town for dog food, coffee, and toilet paper. That's my goal, if Messiah tarries. I may have to get one more pair of sandals, but it's recorded that the children of Israel's shoes held up for the entire journey through the wilderness, so maybe the ones I have will last another forty years. I cleaned my closet out this past spring, as well. I simply do not need a closet full of clothes. I've splurged in the past few years by making some special skirts for the Feasts.
In recent years, I've truly made purchases with the thought in mind, that I may never need to make this purchase again, or may not have the opportunity to do so. Many of us are considering the idea that we may be helping others through turbulent times. I want to be able to offer warmth and sustenance. According to Scripture some folks are going to be heading to the hills with just the shirts on their backs. I want to be able to help them . . . I'm not hoarding, at least I don't think I am, but all of the purchases I make, great consideration is given to preparation for the times ahead.
I do know, if I live out my days before Messiah returns, this place and the investments I've made will benefit the next occupant . . .
Now, when I consider the way others spend money, I quickly realize, I probably seem cheap. When I consider the way that same daughter spends her money, I realize she simply did not receive her set of values from me. As I aim for sustainable living, there are investments. I would love to have only a bill for my internet provider, while the internet is still an option and a monthly trip to town for dog food, coffee, and toilet paper. That's my goal, if Messiah tarries. I may have to get one more pair of sandals, but it's recorded that the children of Israel's shoes held up for the entire journey through the wilderness, so maybe the ones I have will last another forty years. I cleaned my closet out this past spring, as well. I simply do not need a closet full of clothes. I've splurged in the past few years by making some special skirts for the Feasts.
In recent years, I've truly made purchases with the thought in mind, that I may never need to make this purchase again, or may not have the opportunity to do so. Many of us are considering the idea that we may be helping others through turbulent times. I want to be able to offer warmth and sustenance. According to Scripture some folks are going to be heading to the hills with just the shirts on their backs. I want to be able to help them . . . I'm not hoarding, at least I don't think I am, but all of the purchases I make, great consideration is given to preparation for the times ahead.
I do know, if I live out my days before Messiah returns, this place and the investments I've made will benefit the next occupant . . .
Sunday, April 5, 2015
Can't Afford a Stay at Home Mom
Kudos to this couple. The author really puts values and costs in perspective.
http://www.weareglory.com/blog/fathers-you-cant-afford-a-stay-at-home-mom
Sunday, March 29, 2015
Buying and Selling
Many believe the mark of the beast will be spiritual or behavioral, rather than physical. Some believe it's the difference between keeping Sabbath or not, while others believe it could be physical. It will undoubtedly be spiritual! I've been sounding the drum beat for some time now that we need to lessen our dependence for buying and selling. We need to make some good barter connections and minimize our purchasing habits.
In 1995 I made a simple statement. The mark of the beast will not be introduced by threat and intimidation, but for convenience and safety.
Here's the next phase for our convenience and safety.
In 1995 I made a simple statement. The mark of the beast will not be introduced by threat and intimidation, but for convenience and safety.
Here's the next phase for our convenience and safety.
Sunday, March 22, 2015
An Opportunity
Once in awhile, an opportunity arises that you simply dare not taint with money. That's not to say money is evil or bad, because we know it's only a tool, it's the love of money that is wrong, but I digress . . . Back to the opportunity. As a Creation Wellness Advocate, or practitioner of natural health modalities, I do have a business that involves clients and the sale of products. Through this; I also have the opportunity to minister. I've been able to do this with hands on in the area for years, but now with an internet presence, it's been interesting to see a health need on social media and simply offer to send something that might help. It's as if my business makes my formulas and solutions legit! Then I'm free to gift and donate as I am led. Naturally, every transaction is not a gift, but there is something special in each opportunity. Living agriculturally, tithing has taken on a new understanding, but in this business, products can be used in offerings as well.
Recently, I had the opportunity to administer reflexology with a formulated "Essentials and Extracts." It was received so well, I asked if I could return. The woman was quite gracious in her response and I told her I'd be dropping in within the next week or so. This offer was not for the woman, herself, but for her son and the situation has been very trying and long term. When I did get there, the young man seemed to remember me. He genuinely responded favorably again. She was sure he was aware and had remembered. There were times he was obviously responsive. As I worked, she and I chatted. We discussed kids, grandkids, G-d, small town living, and country life. All in all, I was there about an hour. Until meeting me, she was unfamiliar with reflexology, herbs and oils, so I shared some of the progress other clients had experienced. She asked me what I charged. I almost told her my rate, when out of the corner of my eye, I saw her reaching into her purse. I quickly said this was my offering and changed the subject.
As I was preparing to leave, I showed her the product applicator I'd brought for her convenience to use and she immediately went for her purse again, offering to pay. It was then, that I knew, money could not enter the circumstances. I've prayed for this young man for quite some time now, and I felt compelled to "lay hands on him and anoint him with oil." She hadn't asked me to come, I'd contacted her. This was pure ministry and one simply does not charge for that. I don't know what Abba has planned in this situation, but I do know a few dollars in my pocket would not compare with the joy of seeing this young man back up and active.
Recently, I had the opportunity to administer reflexology with a formulated "Essentials and Extracts." It was received so well, I asked if I could return. The woman was quite gracious in her response and I told her I'd be dropping in within the next week or so. This offer was not for the woman, herself, but for her son and the situation has been very trying and long term. When I did get there, the young man seemed to remember me. He genuinely responded favorably again. She was sure he was aware and had remembered. There were times he was obviously responsive. As I worked, she and I chatted. We discussed kids, grandkids, G-d, small town living, and country life. All in all, I was there about an hour. Until meeting me, she was unfamiliar with reflexology, herbs and oils, so I shared some of the progress other clients had experienced. She asked me what I charged. I almost told her my rate, when out of the corner of my eye, I saw her reaching into her purse. I quickly said this was my offering and changed the subject.
As I was preparing to leave, I showed her the product applicator I'd brought for her convenience to use and she immediately went for her purse again, offering to pay. It was then, that I knew, money could not enter the circumstances. I've prayed for this young man for quite some time now, and I felt compelled to "lay hands on him and anoint him with oil." She hadn't asked me to come, I'd contacted her. This was pure ministry and one simply does not charge for that. I don't know what Abba has planned in this situation, but I do know a few dollars in my pocket would not compare with the joy of seeing this young man back up and active.
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Safe Keeping
Most of us have done this, I'm sure. We put something "up" where we won't lose it, then forget where we put it . . . Or we do have a special place for safe keeping, use it, know where it is, yet overlook what we're looking for . . . The past couple of weeks, I've not been operating at full capacity. I'd liked to have been benched on the injured reserve list, but a lot has been going on here at the homestead, so that wasn't possible. Between a pounding headache, blurred vision, terribly sore ribs, and a weak and painful leg, I've not been at my best in focusing.
Through the course of this, I celebrated a birthday and in that "celebration," I receive a few cards, one being from my parents with a check included. I placed the check in my "safe keeping" place in my purse so I'd have it when I went to the bank. There was an entire week between receiving the check and going to the bank, so as it turned out, I forgot about the check. In the next couple of days, it crossed my mind, so I went to my place of "safe keeping" in my purse and couldn't find it!
I didn't panic, but I did get serious about finding that check. I looked through the birthday cards, but it wasn't there. I even checked the glove compartment in the buggy and over the visor, still no check . . . I went back to my "safe keeping" place again and still nothing. I'm not usually careless and forgetful, but it did cross my mind that perhaps my memory had been affected by my fall.
I poured a cup of coffee and began thinking about the fact I wasn't having to rush around to go work and that I didn't really need the money for anything pressing, I began giving thanks. There was a time when that check would have been needed, really needed, to pay a bill or an actual provision. There were about seven lean years in my late teens through mid twenties in which every dollar that came into my possession was needed for provision . . . I, like so many, wasn't operating in any sort of financial wisdom. Life cost just a little more than I actually made, it seemed. By the age of thirty, I had gained a considerable amount of wisdom in money management. When I became a believer and actually began tithing as well as seeking Abba in all income and spending, my finances changed dramatically. My income didn't increase, but my expenses decreased dramatically, and that has remained consistent all these years later.
At the age of 36, twenty-one years ago, Abba showed me that debt does not lead to the American dream and He had a much better plan for me than the American dream. As I looked for that check, I was aware and thankful that I don't have a gas heating bill. I don't have a water bill, and my electric bill is amazingly low by comparison to what I read and hear from others. My grocery bill is practically non-existent. I chose to live simply years ago, which included no mortgage or car payment. The worst thing that crossed my mind about that missing check was if I didn't find it, I'd have to tell Daddy I lost it . . .
That single missing check brought a cavalcade of thanksgiving to my heart. I had one small moment of thinking Mr. B should have dropped whatever he was doing to help me look, but I gained victory over that thought without verbalizing it, by reading in a devotional. As I was reading, he did offer to go through the trash before he burned it, and for that I was grateful. He offered to look one more place, and with that, I said I was going to go through my purse one more time. Since I'd recently changed purses, I decided to go through every pocket and compartment. When I got to the "safe keeping" place, I noticed a couple of pages were stuck together. Sure enough, between those two pages was that missing check! I immediately gave thanks for the discovery, but then found myself so thankful for the things I'd become aware of, through that time of searching.
Kingdom Economy isn't about bigger houses and fancy jets, it's about how little of the world's wealth we really need and how amazing the provision of our Heavenly Father truly is.
Through the course of this, I celebrated a birthday and in that "celebration," I receive a few cards, one being from my parents with a check included. I placed the check in my "safe keeping" place in my purse so I'd have it when I went to the bank. There was an entire week between receiving the check and going to the bank, so as it turned out, I forgot about the check. In the next couple of days, it crossed my mind, so I went to my place of "safe keeping" in my purse and couldn't find it!
I didn't panic, but I did get serious about finding that check. I looked through the birthday cards, but it wasn't there. I even checked the glove compartment in the buggy and over the visor, still no check . . . I went back to my "safe keeping" place again and still nothing. I'm not usually careless and forgetful, but it did cross my mind that perhaps my memory had been affected by my fall.
I poured a cup of coffee and began thinking about the fact I wasn't having to rush around to go work and that I didn't really need the money for anything pressing, I began giving thanks. There was a time when that check would have been needed, really needed, to pay a bill or an actual provision. There were about seven lean years in my late teens through mid twenties in which every dollar that came into my possession was needed for provision . . . I, like so many, wasn't operating in any sort of financial wisdom. Life cost just a little more than I actually made, it seemed. By the age of thirty, I had gained a considerable amount of wisdom in money management. When I became a believer and actually began tithing as well as seeking Abba in all income and spending, my finances changed dramatically. My income didn't increase, but my expenses decreased dramatically, and that has remained consistent all these years later.
At the age of 36, twenty-one years ago, Abba showed me that debt does not lead to the American dream and He had a much better plan for me than the American dream. As I looked for that check, I was aware and thankful that I don't have a gas heating bill. I don't have a water bill, and my electric bill is amazingly low by comparison to what I read and hear from others. My grocery bill is practically non-existent. I chose to live simply years ago, which included no mortgage or car payment. The worst thing that crossed my mind about that missing check was if I didn't find it, I'd have to tell Daddy I lost it . . .
That single missing check brought a cavalcade of thanksgiving to my heart. I had one small moment of thinking Mr. B should have dropped whatever he was doing to help me look, but I gained victory over that thought without verbalizing it, by reading in a devotional. As I was reading, he did offer to go through the trash before he burned it, and for that I was grateful. He offered to look one more place, and with that, I said I was going to go through my purse one more time. Since I'd recently changed purses, I decided to go through every pocket and compartment. When I got to the "safe keeping" place, I noticed a couple of pages were stuck together. Sure enough, between those two pages was that missing check! I immediately gave thanks for the discovery, but then found myself so thankful for the things I'd become aware of, through that time of searching.
Kingdom Economy isn't about bigger houses and fancy jets, it's about how little of the world's wealth we really need and how amazing the provision of our Heavenly Father truly is.
Sunday, March 8, 2015
Render Unto Caesar . . .
As I am preparing my taxes this year, the reality has finally settled in. I am not calling it persecution, but there is a price to pay for standing by my convictions and beliefs. Even though I have been standing on full faith regarding my health for 14 years now, I can no longer do that in this country without being penalized. Since America has billed itself a nation based upon Judeo-Christian values, all religious objections must fall into some belief system that has been established since 1951. I've only been standing in this faith for fourteen years and I don't know any Christians or Jews who believe our Creator actually heals without assistance from modern medicine, although I'm sure there are some.
It's funny, there were physicians mentioned clear back in Genesis and Job acknowledged the presence of physicians in the society of his day. The New Testament makes more than one reference to physicians, including one account of the Gospel being penned by a physician, and yet . . . modern believers seem to think faith for healing was different in Bible times. Hebrews 13:8 tells us Y'hshuwah Messiah is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Doesn't that make anyone else wonder why Y'hshuwah would use doctors now, but didn't send anyone to Luke then?
Hebrew Scriptures, specifically Leviticus instructs the people of YHWH to present themselves with their maladies before the High Priests. Hebrews tells us, Y'hshuwah Messiah is our High Priest. So, once again, what's missing, what's been added?
And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of YHWH thy G-d, and wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am YHWH that healeth thee. Exodus 15:26
Considering the fact, I can't find religious folks to agree with me on this, I'm not holding out a great deal of hope for the Obama administration, so as I stated back in 2010, I just have to budget for the penalty. It does seem different though, now that it's a reality on this year's taxes. In the land of the free, with a claim of Judeo-Christian principles, I have to pay a penalty for believing our Creator heals.
And Y'hshuwah answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to G-d the things that are G-d's. And they marvelled at him. Mark 12:17
So, my tax penalty I shall render unto Caesar, and the faith and glory for my health unto G-d!
It's funny, there were physicians mentioned clear back in Genesis and Job acknowledged the presence of physicians in the society of his day. The New Testament makes more than one reference to physicians, including one account of the Gospel being penned by a physician, and yet . . . modern believers seem to think faith for healing was different in Bible times. Hebrews 13:8 tells us Y'hshuwah Messiah is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Doesn't that make anyone else wonder why Y'hshuwah would use doctors now, but didn't send anyone to Luke then?
Hebrew Scriptures, specifically Leviticus instructs the people of YHWH to present themselves with their maladies before the High Priests. Hebrews tells us, Y'hshuwah Messiah is our High Priest. So, once again, what's missing, what's been added?
And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of YHWH thy G-d, and wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am YHWH that healeth thee. Exodus 15:26
Considering the fact, I can't find religious folks to agree with me on this, I'm not holding out a great deal of hope for the Obama administration, so as I stated back in 2010, I just have to budget for the penalty. It does seem different though, now that it's a reality on this year's taxes. In the land of the free, with a claim of Judeo-Christian principles, I have to pay a penalty for believing our Creator heals.
And Y'hshuwah answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to G-d the things that are G-d's. And they marvelled at him. Mark 12:17
So, my tax penalty I shall render unto Caesar, and the faith and glory for my health unto G-d!
Monday, March 2, 2015
Kingdom Skills
We speak of a new heaven and new earth. We say we are looking forward to the Messianic Reign. Several of us have also ascertained that eternity in paradise probably won't amount to harp playing on clouds. Through the years, I've heard at the time of the passing of certain folk that their loved ones can just "see them in heaven" fishing or golfing or whatever their favorite sport was, which I believe sounds a bit like what I've heard about the Mormon's own planets . . . I picture eternal paradise to be more like our Creator first design this world to be.
I could be wrong, but I see those who take on immortality in Y'hshuwah Messiah will be tending to gardens, enjoying animals, celebrating Sabbaths and Feasts, and worshiping our Creator. I have no doubt everything will be enjoyable, but I've also given consideration to a couple of new thoughts since attending the most amazing funeral I've ever witnessed. We know our bodies will be as Messiah's and there are no tears, but have we considered the concept that there will be no need for teaching, evangelizing, or any of the five fold ministries, because we'll know . . . Prophecy will be fulfilled, YHWH is our Shepherd and Messiah is The Rabbi. The Good News will have already been shared throughout the world, and there will be no need for healing or deliverance, since there will be no sickness or demons in paradise! I imagine the talents we've been given will still be of value in eternity. I know I plan to do some major foot anointing and washing . . .
As I sat at that funeral listening to some amazing tributes to an individual, and some adorable anecdotes provided by the decedent's wife, one comment stood out among so many. I would have posted it to social media, but it was just too precious to have it torn to ribbons by theological terrorists. In a service that was literally standing room only, a man's life was celebrated as a godly man who put his faith into practice. Our entire downtown could not have accommodated the parking for all of us who called this man a friend and came to offer our respectful presence to his wife and children.
This quiet man who had been born 12 miles from where he spent his entire life, was the perfect example of what it is to "love G-d and love your neighbor." Although we did not walk in the same understanding of obedience, there was a mutual respect in the practical application of what we believed. Everyone said they knew where he stood in his faith, but he never argued and as his 49 years on this earth were celebrated, nobody could remember him having ever said an unkind word!
A young man who spoke admiringly of this quiet, gentleman, dairy farmer; made a statement regarding a Scripture that really touched me heart. This isn't about soul sleep or instant presence in heaven or anything else that would detract from the beauty and simplicity of the statement the young man made. He referenced the 50th Psalm as he spoke words of comfort and eternal encouragement in his heart touching comment. "Our Father has the cattle on a thousand hills . . . and he needed someone to milk them."
What are the talents we've been given by our Creator that will be useful in the world to come?
I could be wrong, but I see those who take on immortality in Y'hshuwah Messiah will be tending to gardens, enjoying animals, celebrating Sabbaths and Feasts, and worshiping our Creator. I have no doubt everything will be enjoyable, but I've also given consideration to a couple of new thoughts since attending the most amazing funeral I've ever witnessed. We know our bodies will be as Messiah's and there are no tears, but have we considered the concept that there will be no need for teaching, evangelizing, or any of the five fold ministries, because we'll know . . . Prophecy will be fulfilled, YHWH is our Shepherd and Messiah is The Rabbi. The Good News will have already been shared throughout the world, and there will be no need for healing or deliverance, since there will be no sickness or demons in paradise! I imagine the talents we've been given will still be of value in eternity. I know I plan to do some major foot anointing and washing . . .
As I sat at that funeral listening to some amazing tributes to an individual, and some adorable anecdotes provided by the decedent's wife, one comment stood out among so many. I would have posted it to social media, but it was just too precious to have it torn to ribbons by theological terrorists. In a service that was literally standing room only, a man's life was celebrated as a godly man who put his faith into practice. Our entire downtown could not have accommodated the parking for all of us who called this man a friend and came to offer our respectful presence to his wife and children.
This quiet man who had been born 12 miles from where he spent his entire life, was the perfect example of what it is to "love G-d and love your neighbor." Although we did not walk in the same understanding of obedience, there was a mutual respect in the practical application of what we believed. Everyone said they knew where he stood in his faith, but he never argued and as his 49 years on this earth were celebrated, nobody could remember him having ever said an unkind word!
A young man who spoke admiringly of this quiet, gentleman, dairy farmer; made a statement regarding a Scripture that really touched me heart. This isn't about soul sleep or instant presence in heaven or anything else that would detract from the beauty and simplicity of the statement the young man made. He referenced the 50th Psalm as he spoke words of comfort and eternal encouragement in his heart touching comment. "Our Father has the cattle on a thousand hills . . . and he needed someone to milk them."
What are the talents we've been given by our Creator that will be useful in the world to come?
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Helping or Enabling?
Before becoming a believer I was a world class enabler. That poor trait didn't just fall away over night, either, but as I grew in my walk with Messiah, I began to discern the signs. In all fairness to folks who rely on enablers, the enablers are definitely responsible for their role in the problem. For the most part, folks who need enablers are addicts of some sort, but our society now has so many addictions beyond alcohol and drugs, it truly does take discernment to see the spirit of addiction or control in the situation. In using the term "spirit" I'm not implying that all addicts are victims of demons, although there often is demonic activity involved in addiction. Many addictions are psychological. While drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are not only psychological, but physical addictions as well. Are you wondering how addiction is the topic in kingdom economy? As a delivered enabler, please let me share.
I believe enabling is a psychological addiction that is all too often excused, encouraged, and even respected when camouflaged. Enabling is costly. It can be costly financially, physically, emotionally, and definitely spiritually. Enabling is really a form of idolatry. It literally robs one of time, energy, and gives a very false sense of importance. An enabler "needs" an addict in their life. This addict can be addicted to anything from alcohol to shopping to sex. An enabler is so focused on their own need to be needed, the specific addiction is irrelevant. The addiction must require the enabler to be involved in some capacity of caretaking or counseling. The enabler literally gives their time and makes the addict a top priority, robbing time and energy from true responsibilities and what could be genuine accomplishments. Often enablers will actually contribute financially to "replace" or provide what is omitted or neglected by the addict's behavior and expenses.
The story of the Good Samaritan is a good example of helping without enabling. First, the victim of thieves was a genuine victim of a specific event. It was not his lifestyle that had caused his problem. Second, the Good Samaritan did not set aside his own goal in offering assistance. The Good Samaritan also obtained qualified help for the time of recovery, the inn keeper. The passage states that even in all that, he still had business to transact and would check back on his return trip. His offering help was just that, not his new project!
Messiah gave a perfect example with the man by the pool who attempted to offer excuses about having no help. Messiah simply asked him, "Do you want to be made whole?" When Peter met the crippled beggar on his way to the Temple, he clearly stated, he didn't have any money to give him, but in the Name of Y'hshuwah he could rise up and walk. So often now, an addiction is treated like an illness, and enabling is another's self appointed position of caretaking. Our society has carefully structured many agencies around addiction and enabling, which have no place in the kingdom. The time spent on addictive behaviors, including enabling is hay and stubble in the economy of kingdom.
I believe enabling is a psychological addiction that is all too often excused, encouraged, and even respected when camouflaged. Enabling is costly. It can be costly financially, physically, emotionally, and definitely spiritually. Enabling is really a form of idolatry. It literally robs one of time, energy, and gives a very false sense of importance. An enabler "needs" an addict in their life. This addict can be addicted to anything from alcohol to shopping to sex. An enabler is so focused on their own need to be needed, the specific addiction is irrelevant. The addiction must require the enabler to be involved in some capacity of caretaking or counseling. The enabler literally gives their time and makes the addict a top priority, robbing time and energy from true responsibilities and what could be genuine accomplishments. Often enablers will actually contribute financially to "replace" or provide what is omitted or neglected by the addict's behavior and expenses.
The story of the Good Samaritan is a good example of helping without enabling. First, the victim of thieves was a genuine victim of a specific event. It was not his lifestyle that had caused his problem. Second, the Good Samaritan did not set aside his own goal in offering assistance. The Good Samaritan also obtained qualified help for the time of recovery, the inn keeper. The passage states that even in all that, he still had business to transact and would check back on his return trip. His offering help was just that, not his new project!
Messiah gave a perfect example with the man by the pool who attempted to offer excuses about having no help. Messiah simply asked him, "Do you want to be made whole?" When Peter met the crippled beggar on his way to the Temple, he clearly stated, he didn't have any money to give him, but in the Name of Y'hshuwah he could rise up and walk. So often now, an addiction is treated like an illness, and enabling is another's self appointed position of caretaking. Our society has carefully structured many agencies around addiction and enabling, which have no place in the kingdom. The time spent on addictive behaviors, including enabling is hay and stubble in the economy of kingdom.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
No Donation Button
I have a ministry website, an online store, as well as a state license for old fashioned storefront business and . . . heading for expansion, so there's no need for a donation button on my site. I've noticed a number of ministry websites that also have a store or sell merchandise, and have a donation button and to be honest, I don't get that. Recently, we featured a video link from Paul Nison on the subject of the ministry conflict between claiming to trust G-d while asking for money.
After 20 years of ministry, I can state clearly, if Adonai has ordained something, His projects do not require begging for funds, although others may want to willingly participate without being solicited. Those folks should be welcomed to share in the blessing! I truly believe the website "donation" button can be a hindrance. I have noticed some sites that have set up specific requests for someone else and when that goal is reached, they announce that, thank everyone who participated and remove the request. That's a different matter and I support those who take the time to discover needs and find a way to collect for others. I think there are a number of us who keep a few dollars in a paypal account to offer assistance when a need like that comes into our awareness and touches our heart. I have no qualms about buying a product or book in support of certain outreaches as well, but selling products and collecting donations sounds confusing at best and a tax nightmare at worst!
When the Goshen Gazette first began, I looked for contributors who did not solicit funds. I still do look for that in our regular links, but as the links have increased, I'm sure donation buttons appear on occasion. I would like to offer a bit of advice for those who are considering expanding a ministry outreach, but unsure of the coverage of cost. Make it a serious matter of prayer before adding that donation button. Abba is amazingly creative in His provision. I can't tell even begin to count the number of times, I've read about a health issue or emergency that I simply responded to with either product or a few dollars, that have turned into regular customers and regular contributors, and often the blessing of new and lasting friendships.
The donation button limits what we can receive from our Creator. He is so good, so great, and so creative, His provision is manifest far beyond a few dollars in PayPal or Western Union.
After 20 years of ministry, I can state clearly, if Adonai has ordained something, His projects do not require begging for funds, although others may want to willingly participate without being solicited. Those folks should be welcomed to share in the blessing! I truly believe the website "donation" button can be a hindrance. I have noticed some sites that have set up specific requests for someone else and when that goal is reached, they announce that, thank everyone who participated and remove the request. That's a different matter and I support those who take the time to discover needs and find a way to collect for others. I think there are a number of us who keep a few dollars in a paypal account to offer assistance when a need like that comes into our awareness and touches our heart. I have no qualms about buying a product or book in support of certain outreaches as well, but selling products and collecting donations sounds confusing at best and a tax nightmare at worst!
When the Goshen Gazette first began, I looked for contributors who did not solicit funds. I still do look for that in our regular links, but as the links have increased, I'm sure donation buttons appear on occasion. I would like to offer a bit of advice for those who are considering expanding a ministry outreach, but unsure of the coverage of cost. Make it a serious matter of prayer before adding that donation button. Abba is amazingly creative in His provision. I can't tell even begin to count the number of times, I've read about a health issue or emergency that I simply responded to with either product or a few dollars, that have turned into regular customers and regular contributors, and often the blessing of new and lasting friendships.
The donation button limits what we can receive from our Creator. He is so good, so great, and so creative, His provision is manifest far beyond a few dollars in PayPal or Western Union.
Sunday, February 8, 2015
A Test
Interestingly, most of my tests do not actually come with a dollar sign. They did at first in my walk, but now most of my purchases are high end investments for the project or livestock, so the deals are pretty cut and dried. They are made and paid or don't take place. The other day, though, was an interesting dilemma that came wrapped in disappointment and debilitation.
The other day, I went to lunch with Mr. B. I make a point of patronizing a particular place for a number of reasons. It's family owned and operated, the food is really good . . . or was, and the prices are quite reasonable. This restaurant doesn't include pork on the menu, which is rare in this part of the country. This business was established about a year ago, and it has been consistently quality food with excellent service, until the new Roman year. Just before the end of last year, my waiter had brought a dessert on the house, saying it was his gift. I had a twinge that he was saying, "good-bye."
When I went in January, the place seemed different and he wasn't there. Upon receiving my salad, I knew something had changed. Then the entree arrived to confirm, not only had the waiting staff changed, so had the kitchen staff. When making inquiry, the waitress assured me, the only thing different was the south wall had been painted. I didn't press further, until I revisited this past week. There was another new waiter, very few customers through the lunch hour, and another customer asked regarding the authenticity of the Italian chef.
The service was poor, but the kid was new, so I cut him some slack. When the food came out, it was inedible. It was truly terrible! When the waiter asked how the meal was, I simply asked him, when the place had changed hands . . . not if . . . He fessed up, the first of the year. Apparently, there'd been a problem with too much management, so the former chef and staff had moved on to start their own restaurant. He then also asked me how I knew. I told him the food was obviously different. The poor kid had the nerve to ask if it was better or worse. I tried to be kind, but I did say, the flavor and quality were inferior to the former fare. He said he'd heard that a lot, and he'd just started this week.
Lousy food and disoriented service wasn't the worst of the deal. When it came time to pay the check, the disappointment reached a new height or low, as the case may be. The waiter was also the cashier . . . which should be ending with "nuff said," but it didn't end there. He spent ten minutes trying to ring in the total, with the cash drawer opening several times, but for some reason, he continued to press keys. Since Mr. B and I were in town on business, our one ticket consisted of two meals, each under $7.00, with mine in a carryout container to be fed to the chickens. When a figure of "twelve something" finally appeared in the total screen, I thought the ordeal was finally over, but I was mistaken.
The young man proceeded to count back the "twelve something" for change from a $20.00. I let him finish, in hopes of avoiding confusion, then proceeded to explain to him, the "twelve something" was the total for two meals and the change should be $6.00 something. His expression was completely void of understanding. I tried it again, even showing him the two meals on the check, to which he replied, "I'm new." With that, I stopped trying to explain and simply handed back $6.00 plus change and told him to have a nice day.
Bad food and lousy service is a sure way to an empty restaurant, but giving excess change is the fast track to an empty cash register. I have no idea if the young man ever figured out what I was trying to convey, but I'm so glad, I insisted that he take the full amount. As I headed to the vehicle I thought to myself, how sad it was that this business would soon be shuttered.
The other day, I went to lunch with Mr. B. I make a point of patronizing a particular place for a number of reasons. It's family owned and operated, the food is really good . . . or was, and the prices are quite reasonable. This restaurant doesn't include pork on the menu, which is rare in this part of the country. This business was established about a year ago, and it has been consistently quality food with excellent service, until the new Roman year. Just before the end of last year, my waiter had brought a dessert on the house, saying it was his gift. I had a twinge that he was saying, "good-bye."
When I went in January, the place seemed different and he wasn't there. Upon receiving my salad, I knew something had changed. Then the entree arrived to confirm, not only had the waiting staff changed, so had the kitchen staff. When making inquiry, the waitress assured me, the only thing different was the south wall had been painted. I didn't press further, until I revisited this past week. There was another new waiter, very few customers through the lunch hour, and another customer asked regarding the authenticity of the Italian chef.
The service was poor, but the kid was new, so I cut him some slack. When the food came out, it was inedible. It was truly terrible! When the waiter asked how the meal was, I simply asked him, when the place had changed hands . . . not if . . . He fessed up, the first of the year. Apparently, there'd been a problem with too much management, so the former chef and staff had moved on to start their own restaurant. He then also asked me how I knew. I told him the food was obviously different. The poor kid had the nerve to ask if it was better or worse. I tried to be kind, but I did say, the flavor and quality were inferior to the former fare. He said he'd heard that a lot, and he'd just started this week.
Lousy food and disoriented service wasn't the worst of the deal. When it came time to pay the check, the disappointment reached a new height or low, as the case may be. The waiter was also the cashier . . . which should be ending with "nuff said," but it didn't end there. He spent ten minutes trying to ring in the total, with the cash drawer opening several times, but for some reason, he continued to press keys. Since Mr. B and I were in town on business, our one ticket consisted of two meals, each under $7.00, with mine in a carryout container to be fed to the chickens. When a figure of "twelve something" finally appeared in the total screen, I thought the ordeal was finally over, but I was mistaken.
The young man proceeded to count back the "twelve something" for change from a $20.00. I let him finish, in hopes of avoiding confusion, then proceeded to explain to him, the "twelve something" was the total for two meals and the change should be $6.00 something. His expression was completely void of understanding. I tried it again, even showing him the two meals on the check, to which he replied, "I'm new." With that, I stopped trying to explain and simply handed back $6.00 plus change and told him to have a nice day.
Bad food and lousy service is a sure way to an empty restaurant, but giving excess change is the fast track to an empty cash register. I have no idea if the young man ever figured out what I was trying to convey, but I'm so glad, I insisted that he take the full amount. As I headed to the vehicle I thought to myself, how sad it was that this business would soon be shuttered.
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Again I'm Analyzing Time
The value of time is one of those things that I just keep considering. I don't want to obsess over the topic, but in the reality of this world, the way we use our time is the only thing that is really exclusively within our own control. The past three and a half years has been a time of coming to a greater understanding of this gift from our Creator, that we spend, often with little thought and great abandon.
Our days are numbered. Y'hshuwah spoke succinctly about how much in life we can't control and how little we can actually change, and yet the way we spend the time we're given is within our control. In looking back, I have obviously made some poor investments when it comes to how I spent my time. I don't want anymore of that! I'll be 57 years old in a few weeks and I'm taking inventory. I've invested time in relationships that dead-ended. I've invested time in projects that were unnecessary, as well as projects that need to be completed. I'm not a procrastinator, but there have been a couple of rather lengthy projects that have taken some extensive time, now nearing completion. HalleluYah!
The last few weeks of social media, I found myself feeling that my time could be better spent, and when I return, that is the plan. The "randomosity" of social media took it's toll on my direction and accomplishment in the past few weeks. That's not to lay the blame away from my own responsibility, but rather to recognize that it must be managed. I was attempting to be far more interactive than I am, and I was also trying to protect private alternative health information. Just in my very short break, two ideas have come to mind to address both concerns.
As to my attempt to be interactive, I'm an introvert and I've been led to establish this place for folks who will gather in community, as well as encourage others who have been led to do the same. I have not been led to establish this place for folks who see the calamity coming but are still dependent upon the system, while scoping out a place to go when society collapses. Abba did not call me to prepare a place for those who are aware of prophecy but are not preparing. That same time and effort is to be used to encourage other homesteaders, square foot gardeners, and folks raising chickens in the city. No more time spent listening to why something can't be done!
Abba is definitely leading me to help others in seeking alternative health modalities and deliverance. He's enabled me to be available by internet, while offering the information outside of mainstream social media. I'm still working on some of the details, but it is coming along and certainly worth the time being spent. Abba has blessed me with information that must be shared in the Name of Y'hshuwah.
Not to be a Lot's wife, but in looking back over the last 3 1/2 years, I wouldn't be ready or able to do what lies ahead, had I continued to invest time and effort on what is not part of the plan.
Our days are numbered. Y'hshuwah spoke succinctly about how much in life we can't control and how little we can actually change, and yet the way we spend the time we're given is within our control. In looking back, I have obviously made some poor investments when it comes to how I spent my time. I don't want anymore of that! I'll be 57 years old in a few weeks and I'm taking inventory. I've invested time in relationships that dead-ended. I've invested time in projects that were unnecessary, as well as projects that need to be completed. I'm not a procrastinator, but there have been a couple of rather lengthy projects that have taken some extensive time, now nearing completion. HalleluYah!
The last few weeks of social media, I found myself feeling that my time could be better spent, and when I return, that is the plan. The "randomosity" of social media took it's toll on my direction and accomplishment in the past few weeks. That's not to lay the blame away from my own responsibility, but rather to recognize that it must be managed. I was attempting to be far more interactive than I am, and I was also trying to protect private alternative health information. Just in my very short break, two ideas have come to mind to address both concerns.
As to my attempt to be interactive, I'm an introvert and I've been led to establish this place for folks who will gather in community, as well as encourage others who have been led to do the same. I have not been led to establish this place for folks who see the calamity coming but are still dependent upon the system, while scoping out a place to go when society collapses. Abba did not call me to prepare a place for those who are aware of prophecy but are not preparing. That same time and effort is to be used to encourage other homesteaders, square foot gardeners, and folks raising chickens in the city. No more time spent listening to why something can't be done!
Abba is definitely leading me to help others in seeking alternative health modalities and deliverance. He's enabled me to be available by internet, while offering the information outside of mainstream social media. I'm still working on some of the details, but it is coming along and certainly worth the time being spent. Abba has blessed me with information that must be shared in the Name of Y'hshuwah.
Not to be a Lot's wife, but in looking back over the last 3 1/2 years, I wouldn't be ready or able to do what lies ahead, had I continued to invest time and effort on what is not part of the plan.
Sunday, January 25, 2015
Time and Taxes
This past week has been very trying. A great deal of time invested seemed to just explode and implode overnight. Suddenly, everything had changed. As I thought about it and pondered the circumstances, I realized, going over it in my mind, seemed parallel to taxes. Time spent, is just that, spent. It won't come back, it's gone. Now to rehash in our mind, too many times, is just more time spent on time that we can't get back. It's also time spent that will not change the circumstances. There are serious things going on in the world and a few angry words by a few folks really should not be at the top of the priority list.
As I came to this understanding, I became concerned. I had reached out to a few people in friendship and others who had privately voiced some struggles and frustrations, and although I thought I was always very clear about what I believe and where I stand, there were suddenly very divisive issues. I'm responsible enough to know when there seems to be a problem with several at once, I may be the common denominator. I tend to be a pretty strong, stoic type woman, so when I realized I could just quit questioning what had transpired in several situations, and go on with life, I asked Abba if I was becoming calloused.
Although I can be a tough cookie and rather socially awkward, I do have a compassionate heart. I didn't want to become hardened with all the interactive circumstances. Abba showed me it was not callousness, but a strengthening of the armor. We use the phrase iron sharpening iron in a rather cavalier manner. The time already invested in friendship or outreach was time invested in others in the Name of Y'hshuwah and that was as it should be. It was the rehashing in my own mind that would lead to problems. By "taxing" the circumstances, we may find ourselves feeling more invested than we actually were. In rehashing the events, we may give our own contribution a higher value than we should. We don't know how we ultimately affect the lives of others, or the long range effect they may have on us.
Giving our time to reach out in the Name of Y'hshuwah is what we are called to do. Responding to accusations impulsively is clearly wrong, but continual rehashing and questioning is adding a tax that is not needed, and may hinder a restoration.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
An Odd Experience For Which I'm Thankful
I've been truck shopping. I wasn't looking for anything new as that puts me in sticker shock, and I didn't want payments. Since my shopping budget is somewhat limited, I'm primarily looking on used vehicle lots and perusing craigslist. The very first lot on which I stopped, delivered a predicament I was certainly not expecting.
I had a basic idea of what I was looking for, but maintained some flexibility. I knew I didn't want a Ford or a Dodge. I'm a GMC girl, so that narrowed the search down considerably. Silverados have always been a favorite of mine. Although I've never owned one, I did drive one back in my Funeral Director days working coroner cases. I liked the feel of the truck back then, and so the memory has stayed with me, all these years later; but I was open to a GMC Sierra. I was also willing to consider looking at an Avalanche or Escalade.
Having been introduced to the owner of one of the used car dealerships, I thought I'd visit his place first. Right in front of his building sat a big charcoal Avalanche. It was the body style with a bed, so I went over to check it out. As I opened the driver's door, I was met with the intensity of car dealer cologne and immediately knew he was driving this vehicle. It had a nice black interior, but that was all I took in before I was met with a voice booming from the door. "That's not for sale. I'm driving that!" I stepped away from the vehicle and closed the door in somewhat disbelief. I looked his way and he proceeded to tell me what a great vehicle this was, but he wasn't ready to sell it. He'd be getting more in like it.
Suddenly, strange thoughts were swirling in my head. The vehicle was too great to sell at this time? Made me wonder what would be the issue that made him decide to sell it. Which then led to the next question regarding the condition of the ones he was willing to sell. Obviously, I read a great deal into his reluctance to sell the vehicle I was interested in, but . . . Here it is, January on a used car lot, and the owner won't sell this vehicle. So, I moved on, with no plans of returning. As I went to several lots, there was always the offer for me to settle on something other than my first choice, at basically the top of my shopping budget. Nothing was setting right, but by the same token, I really was in no rush. I can haul goats in the Uplander and the calves aren't going anywhere until next fall, so . . .
I found myself on a car lot a distance outside of my usual stomping grounds. On that lot, not only was there a Silverado, but it wasn't even at the top of my shopping budget, and . . . it really was a one owner truck! Before the test drive, I could tell by the interior, it had been taken care of. So, with that observation and an awesome test drive . . . YHWH willing, I'll be picking up a used, 'new to me,' Chevy Silverado this week. It appears to be exactly what I was looking for.
I had a basic idea of what I was looking for, but maintained some flexibility. I knew I didn't want a Ford or a Dodge. I'm a GMC girl, so that narrowed the search down considerably. Silverados have always been a favorite of mine. Although I've never owned one, I did drive one back in my Funeral Director days working coroner cases. I liked the feel of the truck back then, and so the memory has stayed with me, all these years later; but I was open to a GMC Sierra. I was also willing to consider looking at an Avalanche or Escalade.
Having been introduced to the owner of one of the used car dealerships, I thought I'd visit his place first. Right in front of his building sat a big charcoal Avalanche. It was the body style with a bed, so I went over to check it out. As I opened the driver's door, I was met with the intensity of car dealer cologne and immediately knew he was driving this vehicle. It had a nice black interior, but that was all I took in before I was met with a voice booming from the door. "That's not for sale. I'm driving that!" I stepped away from the vehicle and closed the door in somewhat disbelief. I looked his way and he proceeded to tell me what a great vehicle this was, but he wasn't ready to sell it. He'd be getting more in like it.
Suddenly, strange thoughts were swirling in my head. The vehicle was too great to sell at this time? Made me wonder what would be the issue that made him decide to sell it. Which then led to the next question regarding the condition of the ones he was willing to sell. Obviously, I read a great deal into his reluctance to sell the vehicle I was interested in, but . . . Here it is, January on a used car lot, and the owner won't sell this vehicle. So, I moved on, with no plans of returning. As I went to several lots, there was always the offer for me to settle on something other than my first choice, at basically the top of my shopping budget. Nothing was setting right, but by the same token, I really was in no rush. I can haul goats in the Uplander and the calves aren't going anywhere until next fall, so . . .
I found myself on a car lot a distance outside of my usual stomping grounds. On that lot, not only was there a Silverado, but it wasn't even at the top of my shopping budget, and . . . it really was a one owner truck! Before the test drive, I could tell by the interior, it had been taken care of. So, with that observation and an awesome test drive . . . YHWH willing, I'll be picking up a used, 'new to me,' Chevy Silverado this week. It appears to be exactly what I was looking for.
Sunday, January 11, 2015
Flocks and Herds
Sometimes in all the hoop-ti-la of this American economy, it's easy to forget that Scripture does address earthly wealth, even confirming earthly wealth is not necessarily evil, but can actually be a blessing. There are two things we tend to overlook or equate that Scripture portrays differently. Scripture refers to land, herds, and flocks as wealth. Abraham even had silver. Paul wrote, telling Timothy, it was the love of money that is the root of all evil, which says, it's about our attitude and priority rather than money, itself. Various believers have major debates about degrees of wealth, while the fact of the matter is, by comparison, most Americans have a standard of earthly wealth far above much of the rest of the world.
When it comes to actual cash, I would not be considered a wealthy woman. I don't have a huge nest egg saved or a big pension plan. Just between you, me, and the fence post, I don't have a 401K, either. I've mentioned selling what I did have in the Stock Market to invest in four legged stock, which brings me to the latest development in the flocks and herds. Last week, Buddy Buck headed to the auction. I included a "play by play" of his departure in last week's edition. Well, the check from the auction house arrived. Although the amount is nearly three times what I paid for Buddy, that's not the real measure of wealth by any means.
Within the next six to ten weeks, Abba willing, Buddy's offspring will begin making their appearances. If each doe has only one, which would be an unusually low average, the herd will double. Not to count my goats before their hooves hit the ground, but twins are quite common and triplets come along with some degree of regularity, as well. The head count of offspring isn't really where the wealth is determined here in the Land of Goshen. The herd being doubled in size would not be practical to keep, so the majority of the young will be sold. With the sire now off the place, I will be able to keep choice does and for the price of three kids, I'll be able to buy two young calves, but that's not really the wealth. The wealth, in my understanding is what is perpetual. When the does freshen, regardless of the number of kids, the fresh milk is flowing.
As I think of the shepherds of Bible times right up to now, the increase of flocks and herds is clearly an earthly blessing from our Creator.
When it comes to actual cash, I would not be considered a wealthy woman. I don't have a huge nest egg saved or a big pension plan. Just between you, me, and the fence post, I don't have a 401K, either. I've mentioned selling what I did have in the Stock Market to invest in four legged stock, which brings me to the latest development in the flocks and herds. Last week, Buddy Buck headed to the auction. I included a "play by play" of his departure in last week's edition. Well, the check from the auction house arrived. Although the amount is nearly three times what I paid for Buddy, that's not the real measure of wealth by any means.
Fresh goat's milk is so much more valuable than money. I, of course, drink it, but I also use it to make cheese and soap. I cook with it and can it. Goat's milk makes wonderful kosher ice cream and so far it's raised some really nice beef. It seems every year someone has needed some goat's milk to nurture a hungry little mammal of some sort. Nanny goats can raise their young, plus provide for all the rest of this as well. One goat would be hard pressed to provide for this many needs, but a herd provides quite well. I try to refrain from milking the first time moms as their young belong to YHWH, so unless there is an emergency, I try to make sure those kids get all the milk.
As I think of the shepherds of Bible times right up to now, the increase of flocks and herds is clearly an earthly blessing from our Creator.
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