A Year’s Worth of Peace…

Please note daily updates below for the rest of the week…

I can hardly believe that a year’s worth of my living has been chronicled (at least in part) upon the pages of this canvas that I call “peace for the journey.” It’s been a good season of salt and light via your words and encouragement of me. Thank you from the depths of my heart.

I will leave this post up all week and add a prompt for your comments each day. Please note: comments will accumulate throughout the week, thus enhancing your opportunity for a win. Simply answer the prompt, and your name will be entered into the giveway. I will use random.org to select the winners.

Again, it is my privilege and my joy to serve you in blogland. Feel free to contact me anytime via my e-mail link in the sidebar. If you can think of any ways that I can do it better, please let me know. I look forward to continuing the walk with you in the days to come. As always,

post signature

Friday giveaway and update and lingering thoughts…

1. The winners for Sarah Young’s “Jesus Calling” are #38 Lori and #64 Edie. Congrats girls. Please email me your snail mail.

2. Our final giveaway for Watermark’s A Grateful People will be announced on Saturday morning. Still time to add a final comment to this post, which brings me to my final thought…

3. Write whatever you want! Maybe tell us what’s going on over at your blog. I’m exhausted. I’m now officially over myself and all my “blah, blah blahing” on the video and will get back to the pen in short order. Seriously, this has been an extremely busy week for me; my head is spinning in wild and wooly directions all at once, and I can barely catch my breath at times. Thanks for playing along, even if you aren’t winning some of my favorite things. I would trade them all (except for the Bible) to simply have the occasion to sit and chat with you for awhile … face to face! Have a peaceful weekend full of rest and Jesus, and if that doesn’t seem possible, seek Jesus (whatever that looks like for you) and the rest will come. Shalom.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thursday giveaway and update: the winners for the Holman Bible Dictionary are #46 Melinda and #18 Shane. Congratulations ladies. I know you will enjoy the treasure and the teaching from this book. Please snail mail me your addresses. Today’s prompt for Sarah Young’s Jesus Calling (announced on Friday morning…sorry for the earlier oops) is as follows:

What is the one thing you know to be most true about our God as it pertains to your most recent season of living?

I look forward to reading your thoughts. God bless you in your Thursday. Shalom.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Wednesday giveaway and update: OK…a few things I’ve learned in the past 24 hours:

  • I’m a hand talker.
  • I’m a hair toucher (thanks for counting Joy).
  • My flip ultra does a great job picking up crunching leaf noises.
  • Our operating budget at “peace for the journey” is zero; thus, you get what you get friends.
  • Last but certainly not least, I’ve got some of the best bloggie friends in the world. You have graced me with your words of support and encouragement, and I am blown away by your friendship.

Now…onto the winners of the NIV Study Bible. Congrats to KelliGirl (#22) and Kristen (#24) selected by randominteger as the winners. Girls, please snail mail me your addresses, even if you think I have it. If you don’t need the Bible and would rather someone else receive it, please let me know.

To win a copy of the Holman Bible Dictionary (#2 on the list of elaine’s favorite things), please finish the following prompt with your thoughts in the comment section:

“The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is … ”

Winners will be posted on Thursday morning. Remember, comments accumulate throughout the week. Shalom.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tuesday giveaway: Please leave your comments below to win the NIV Study Bible. I will announce the winners on Wednesday morning. If you’ve never commented before, but would like to enter, simply click on the word “comment,” leave your thoughts, and sign in as an “anonymous” contributor. Shalom.

92 Responses to A Year’s Worth of Peace…

  1. Elaine, it’s been our priviledge to walk with you on your awesome journey. Thank you for sharing your life and light. Shane

  2. Elaine, we love you too! Congrats on your first year! (I just got a new Bible, so no need to enter me in this one, but I will want a chance at the devotional! 🙂

    You are a blessing to me, my sister.

  3. Elaine,
    I have thoroughly enjoyed every word you have penned this year. Thank you for sharing your words of wisdom, your life and your love of Jesus with us. You are an awesome friend. God Bless! And Happy Anniversary! I love you!

  4. Elaine, you have been an INCREDIBLE blessing over this year. Thank you – and congratulations on a year of blogging!

  5. Wow Elaine,

    What a beautiful video post. You have your father’s gift for being able to tell a story well.

    Thanks for the inspiration this morning. And thanks for being such a solid voice of truth and encouragement in bloggyland.

    Hugs to you on your bloggiversary!

  6. Elaine,
    Sharing in your celebration on the occasion of your anniversary! I know for myself, you have been a light and a source of much inspiration and challenge for my faith.

    I love being able to see and hear you. I wish we could see each other in person so that I could give you a big hug and say thanks for being a bright spot in my days!!

    Again, congratuations and God Bless! Keep on keeping on my friend!

    Love you!

    Lori

  7. Happy Anniversary, Elaine!:)

    It has been such a blessing getting to know you here in Blog Land.

    (((BIG HUGS!)))
    God Bless,
    Amy:)

    P.S. My one year anniversary is February 13th.:)

  8. I always enjoy dropping by to grab a bit of peace for my journey. It’s been such fun getting to know you in this way, though I feel I’ve known you far longer than a year.

    Keep writing, and keep posting, my friend. It’s such a blessing to know you live right next door in this land of cyber-neighbors!

    Kathleen

  9. This is so exciting, Elaine! Just yesterday, I came across your business card in a stack I collected last summer at “She Speaks”. That was such a whirlwind time of love and inspiration – I confess I only vaguely remember our brief introduction at the dinner table. What a treat to know the friendship that has bloomed since that encounter! Thank you for all you do out here in Blogland – I consider you a touchstone on my own journey here. See you in Charlotte this year? (They just opened registration, you know). (((HUGS)))

  10. Congratulations, Sweet One! What a joy and privilege it has been to meet and journey with you here this past year! You bless me continually!

  11. Oh that was sooooooooo good Elaine!

    THANK YOU for pouring yourself out this past year. We’ve been well fed, encouraged and exhorted to follow hard after the Lord.

    Happy Blogaversary!!

    It’s been great getting to know you.

    Blessings to you♥

  12. Elaine, I am so glad I met you through this blog. Isn’t it the neatest thing how God uses unusual ways to bring His daughters in Christ together.

    Praying for you.

    Blessings!

    Sheryl Dean

  13. Elaine,

    Girlfriend, do not change a thang…I love your beautiful words, and how God speaks through you to me.

    Lovingly,
    Yolanda

  14. I’m so glad to have this journey with you thus far, friend. Congratulations and many more besides! We love you, your gift blesses.

  15. Hi Elaine:
    your blog posts have been a great blessing and encouragement to me.
    Thank you for sharing.
    Blessins
    ~Marita

  16. Elaine, its been great to have you to help lead us through your journey and ours. Congrats on your first year! You have been blessed.

    Pat Whatley

  17. You know, my friend, that my life is better for having spent time with you – even if it hasn’t been face to face. But hey, we have all of eternity for that. :o)

    I LOVE the NIV Study Bible; it’s my personal version of choice, but I know someone to whom I would give this new one should I win.

    It’s been an honor and privilege. Truly.

    Love you,
    Melinda

  18. Your beautiful!! I am in to share this ride with you friend. Count me in!!

    You are such a blessing!

    In His Graces~Pamela

  19. I have just discovered your lovely blog and felt it touch my heart. Your love for Jesus just shines and that is lovely to see.

  20. Elaine
    Congrats! I am for sure thankful for your blog work!
    God bless you for sharing your heart and what God is saying to you.
    I would love to win the new Bible! One can NEVER have too much of God’s word.

  21. Elaine,
    You’re an amazing gift and a precioius blessing. Congrats on your one year anniversary! I loved your video — hearing your story and seeing you in person. You are truly gifted.

    It’s been fun traveling with you on this journey together. Your words truly bless me, my friend.

    Hugs,
    Kelli

  22. How fun was that video? Of coarse, you got me crying with that story of your father. What a wonderful testimony.

    I’m so blessed to get to know you! I pray this week will be a wonderful one for you.

  23. Elaine… my dear bloggy friend. When I think to my blog beginning, I think of you. Our lives intersected by our Father’s design. How I love that even though we live states a part… through technology I can hear the lovely southern accent of yours! 😉
    You hve been such a gift to me. Your words have inspired me. Your comments on my blog have encouraged me.
    How time flies when we are having fun in the Lord!
    I loved the image of your father running after you when you left home. You my dear are a wonderful story-teller too!
    Your give-aways might not be extravagent like Oprah’s favorite things… but your favorite things are eternal! Now those are gifts worth receiving! What we can glean from your give-away… last eternally.

    You are a blessing and I am praising Jesus today for the gift of you!
    Thank you friend for allowing us to travel your journey with you. For sharing you ups, your downs and how the Lord blesses all things in your life! Your life story is a witness to Him! Your journey…

    Much Love,
    K

  24. Father God, I praise & glory YOU in Jesus name. Thank You for putting Elaine in my life. Father God, I come to You as You have open arms to receive me. All glory to YOU.

    Elaine, you had me in tears as I watched your video. I love you so much and I always look forward to your blog posts. You mean a lot to me. Don't enter me for the bible drawing… I have a favorite already. Thank you for including all of us in your one yr blogging anniversary.

    Blessings.

  25. I had no idea you had such an intense (and lovely) southern accent. You are absolutely adorable, and a gifted speaker.

    Though I don’t need a new NIV Study Bible (already own one!) I just wanted to say congratulations on your one year anniversary, Elaine. Well done, my friend!

  26. I don’t need the Bible…still using my favorite although it’s falling apart.
    I enjoyed the vlog! I’ll be back for Wednesday’s study resource.
    Melanie@Bella~Mella

  27. Elaine,
    What a moving image of your father with his arms outstretched. You have such a grace-full heritage and it pours out in your words. I do so loved looking and listening to you today.
    Happy Blogoversary!
    I thank God for introducing you into my life. Your tender concern and thoughts have brought healing and counsel to me. Thank you for persevering with me.
    Love, Sita

  28. Well, my journey didn’t begin with you until March 7, 2008. You captured my attention by words you wrote in a comment on Renee’s blog. It was a sacred sighting, for God had much in mind when He drew me to write that first comment on your blog. Who knew that only a few short days later you would be inviting me to room with you for a conference! God’s ways are so beyond my comprehension.

    Elaine, the friendship God has blessed me with through you is such a treasure. Although miles and borders separate us, I hold you in my heart and pray for you, Billy, Nick, Colton, Jayden and Amelia. How you have enriched my life. All I can say is ‘thank you’.

    May the Lord continue to write His Words through you for many more years to come.
    Love, hugs and prayers,
    Joy
    PS. Because you told me NOT to count…one word…sixteen! ;o)

  29. Thank you for adding grace and love to blogland and the Kingdom of God. Congrats on your anniversary!

  30. Elaine, You are a blessing to me. The Lord has made you a friend to so many, and I feel humbled to be one of them. Happy Blogoversary!

  31. Oh, Elaine… Ah luv that sutherern ackcent ov yurs… oh that it would be contagious!

    I am drawn to you because of your overwhelming exhortation and encouragement. You are not afraid to speak the truth. You are actually compelled to speak the truth… and you obey… and you understand humility.

    Happy Blogaversary, sister!

  32. Elaine, I’m glad you shared your story on the video today. I had not heard it before. I loved the part about your dad running and calling out his love for you. Precious beyond words…

  33. Thanks for sharing your gift of words with us. You have touched so many people for the kingdom.

  34. Elaine, now I am really convinced we should be best friends. No, seriously. I love these videos. I love your passion for God and HIS Word. I wish we lived closer to one another and you could teach me things. Oh, how I mean it with everything in me!!

    Okay, answering today's prompt:

    "The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is … I was sitting on my parents back porch, drinking tea about two weeks from being dumped by who I thought was the love of my life. (He wasn't!) The Lord turned to me and said, "Change is coming for you, Kristen," and I thought, "Yes, it is LORD! I've got this great guy, an awesome new job…things are wonderful."

    Elaine, I kid you not, two weeks later that great guy dumped me in my driveway, the Lord told me to leave that "great new job" and I've been writing ever since.

    He wasn't kidding when He said change was coming. In one full swoop my whole life got turned upside down but what a glorious change it was. I wouldn't trade it for a moment.

    The Truth of Who He is? So much more than the truth of what I thought was to be.

    So much more.

    Be blessed this day, friend. You're such a blessing to me.

    <3, Kristen

  35. Oh the joy…the rapture…to win a Holman Bible Dictionary! I would LOVE. IT.

    Hugs this day!
    Melinda

  36. “The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is … Well, I can look back over several life changing moments when Jesus interrupted my life. I think though that the “seed” was planted when I was in high school. The pastor at my home church for some reason (now I know that it was God’s plan) really took me under his wing and told me God was going to use me some day for big things. Now, mind you as a teenager, I was so far from God that this statement seemed ludicrous to me. But Jesus has used people throughout my life to cultivate that seed.

    Jesus has continually been there nudging and prodding me throughout my life. He continues to reveal himself in brand new ways to me every day. I am a work in progress!

    Thank you Jesus!!!

  37. Hey Mrs. Elaine!

    I am back from my mission trip to Southeast Asia. What an adventure with God. I know I have been changed forever. I talked about it some on my blog. Thank you for praying for me, thank you soo much!

    Love in CHRIST, blessings and ((HUGS)),

    katiegfromtennessee

  38. Precious Elaine,

    As I watched you speak and heard the story of your Daddy with his arms open I cried. Not having had a ‘real’ Daddy I did have my Grandpa who always made me feel that way.

    I am so grateful that our Abba Father welcomed me home long ago and that when He stretched out His hand I grabbed hold finally and have never let go.

    While I’ve not known you a full year yet I feel like I’ve know you a life time. Thank you for sharing your heart with us and for your servant spirit.

    P.S. I too speak with my hands (smile).

    I have several Bibles so thank you and I pray someone who really needs it will receive it.

    I have a Bible Dictionary but I think I will check out the Holman one online. Again, I pray someone who really needs it will receive it.

    I love you.

  39. Hi Elaine:
    This is such a fun time. I love all the comments and the excitement over the give-aways.
    Really, I think I like Elaine’s favorite things a lot more than Oprah’s. We can use them and we don’t have to pay taxes on them. 🙂

    You are such a blessing. I hope to someday meet you in person and give you a great big HUG for all the encouragement you have given.

  40. “The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is I knew it was okay to stop looking back.” And what a comfort that was. i felt such joy in the release from that bondage.

    This is so much fun, Elaine! and, of course, I so enjoyed hearing your sweet voice again.

    luv ya,
    laura

  41. Elaine…

    I have so enjoyed getting to know you through your blog. You are a blessing to me and so many more.

    As for the prompt for today:
    “The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is … “

    It is the day that I realized that He could use all of the yuck in my life to bring Glory to Himself. To be real with people… and watch God work. So thankful that He interrupted my life then… and any other day as well.

  42. wifeforthejourney:

    When you began your blog a year ago I really had no idea about the reach of the internet for Christian ministry. Thank you for the ministry of peaceforthejourney and the way you have stuck with it for the last 12 months. Happy anniversary!

    You are my favorite hand talking, hair touching, Bible teaching gal in all cyberspace and anywhere else!

    To all you other readers out there in blog-land, my wife is very much the same in person as you see her on your PC. I may not be “elligible to win” any of her prizes, but I already have the best prize a man could want: I have a woman that loves Jesus MORE than she loves me.

    As to the question of the day:
    One of the days Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is, was through one of elaine’s many acts of mercy and grace to me. Forgiveness of sin is the embodiment of Christ – thank you for loving me the way you do, and for being my wifeforthejourney!

    LOVE YOU,

    Billy

  43. “The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is He blew me away at the tender age of 14. It was a revival week at my church. I was so compelled to go forward to the alter I felt like a puppet being moved by my puppet Master. He’s still blowing my mind today.”

  44. Oooo, I just love this week-o-fun you’re having!

    OK, God has interupted my life many a time to show me His awesome-ness (I guess I’m not a quick learner). However, the first time I remember it was driving home from a boyfriends house feeling competely empty. I was channel surfing on the radio and found a song about resting in the arms of Christ. I literally had to pull over because the tears were flowing and I could hardly breathe. I had learned to rely on men and not on Christ. So I rededicated my life as a college senior (I beleive) right there in the midst of Chicago traffic. I had the peace of God.

  45. Dear Elaine,
    Thank you so much for sending this link to me. Your writings bless my heart. I can hardly wait until I get a computer so I can keep up on you better. 😉
    I just watched your video not knowing what it would be about and it was awesome. My prodigal daughter…you know the teenager who has a baby and is pregnant again…Lord have mercy…yah that one. Anyway we work together & so she heard the whole thing too. I pray it penetrates her heart.
    Love you much my dear friend/white undergarment shopper savior! 🙂
    love,
    Lelia

  46. It is a joy to know you and be able to visit you on your blog! You’ve done fantastic!

  47. Elaine,
    I can never thank you enough for the stories you have shared, the way you have shared your life with me. Yes it may be through a blog, but it is amazing how God uses the written word to communicate with us!

    Thank you for your emails and comments of encouragement. Thank you for your prayers and love.

    The day Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is… I was sitting in a crowded dorm room with Christians all around me, watching a homemade video of the musical we had just performed at a local church. I had gotten involved in the musical because of a friend in the music department who was in it. The musical was centered around the life of the woman who bled for 12 years.
    We had rehearsed and sung the music, said the lines, read the scripture it was based on, for months. People had prayed for months around me. Little did I know that I was being fiercely prayed for by many of the people in that musical.
    We went through the performance.
    It wasn’t until I saw the video, that my heart was open enough to receive it’s message. God’s message to me. The lover of my soul. The ultimate healer… “one day, He’ll wipe away your tears…” (a line from one of the songs)
    He interrupted my life that day, and took my breath away. He has been interrupting my life ever since, and I pray that He continues to!
    Love you so much!
    God bless you as you continue on this journey!
    Heather

  48. Hi Elaine:
    I just re-read your post and realized you had a specific sentence you wanted us to finish.
    “The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is … ” was July 26, 1975. I was 11 years old and at a youth camp. A dear sweet woman shared with me and the rest of her class who Jesus was and why we needed him. I had been in church since I was born so I understood the technical part of being a christian, but she was instrumental in opening my mind and heart to accepting the precious gift of Salvation and what that meant. She was so loving and passionate in sharing Jesus to us. I was baptized two days later on July 28, 1975.

    Thanks for the sweet comment and my memory scripture is a tough one this time to. I may have over-extended myself. Psalm 62:5-8. 🙂

    Blessings
    Marita

  49. There have been countless times that Jesus has interrupted my life with the truth of who He is.
    As I have grown in my walk with him, which started as a very young child, He has gracefully interrupted me to show me more of Himself. Even this week there was an “interruption” as He led me to pray according to His will concerning a personal situation.
    Thank you, Jesus. You’re welcome to interrupt me any time…day or night. I love you! You’re my SAVIOR.
    Melanie@Bella~Mella

  50. “The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is … ”

    Became the day that I grasped that He knew every single thing I would do, every one, before I ever did them, and STILL He chose to die for me.

    WOW…truly interruped my life with His truth.

    Lovingly,
    Yolanda

  51. “The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is … ” …was initially at the tender age of eight. I was at a gospel crusade and there was an American missionary preaching about the ‘heat’ of hell–oh my, he scared the daylights out of me, so I put up my hand to accept Jesus as my Saviour, probably every night of the crusade, just to make sure! Thereafter I became really concerned about my unsaved friends burning eternally, I was a most ardent witness. Thankfully, I have come to know the truth of Who He is, in drips or sometimes in a deluge in crises, as my Friend, King, Lord, Creator, Father..and I will always be learning because He is infinite…

  52. Elaine,

    I just had to pop over and introduce myself because I just love, love the way you sign your comments…maybe I just need the reminder…peace.

    Anyway, nice to meet you!

    “The day Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is…” was when I was a counselor at a youth camp in 1991. I was a sophomore in college and I was convinced that God had forgotten all about me and how I had asked Him in my heart so many years ago. Aterall, salvation was the last prayer He’d ever answered for me. When in an instant, during worship, I prayed,”Jesus, I just want to love you like that.” You know the way, eyes closed, no one else around, just Him and me. Love Him with the love I’d never felt before but never stopped longing for all my life. And, the rest, as they say, is history…His story…in me.

  53. Happy anniversary friend!

    In answer to the Thursday question, I’d have to say “Steadfast.” Much around us is uncertain, but I’m certain of Him.

  54. I couldn’t be more excited to have won a Holman! THANK YOU! An email will be forthcoming.

    I did, however, just realize that somehow I missed the comment prompt! I’ll answer it today:

    The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who He is, I was 11 years old and, sitting on a straight-backed pew in the church of my youth. That day, when the truth poured from the lips of Brother Beard (my sweet and wonderful pastor), they reached not only my ears, but my heart as well. What a journey it’s been since that day when I responded to “Just as I am” and He showed me just Who He is.

    Hugs to you this day, my friend,
    Melinda

  55. First, I’ve missed so much this week (I “hate” when work interrupts my life *smile*)! Congratulations on your one year anniversary, your gift of pen (keyboard) and word is such a blessing to me.

    The one thing that is most clear to me about God in this season of my life would be that He is a “present” God and desires my presence with Him every moment of my living. He has been drawing me ever closer and making it clear that He is in attendance every moment of my existance.

    Blessings,
    Denise

  56. What I know to be true about God in this season of my life is… That He is faithful, patient, and persistent.

    Have a wonderful Thursday Elaine!!

  57. Elaine-keep me entered this week for all these fun Elaine things!

    “The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is … ” really became apparent the time I was broken cring into my loveseat and felt His presence. I have shared that with you in an e-mail. Though I hadknown Him for years, He became more personal in my life…

    Love you!

    In His Graces~Pamela

  58. Opps-I entered late for Tuesday (as you were posting the winners). Sorry. Here we go for todays question….

    “What is the one thing you know to be most true about our God as it pertains to your most recent season of living?”

    That I am chosen by Him, a royal preisthood (someone He is gifting to reach out to others who need Him), called to live a holy life that draws others to Him because I belong to Him. I am called to declare His praises because He brought me out of the pit of my sins, my darkness into His glorious light (1 Peter 2:9). I am His maidservant and it is where my joy comes from.

    Blessings!

    In His Graces~Pamela

  59. What is the one thing you know to be most true about our God as it pertains to your most recent season of living?

    He is trustworthy, believable and a jealous God. Can only have ONE God in my life, no other gods. Weeding out the idols.

  60. Are you having fun this week? I’m having fun following!
    Plus, I want to throw my hat in the ring for the devotional. 🙂

    Happy Thursday,
    Kelli

  61. Hi Elaine! I came over here from Lisa’s blog. I just wanted to tell you that the comment you left on her blog was helpful to me as I have been sifting through the idea of *purpose* in blogging and facebook. I don’t have a facebook but have been invited by a family member. I have been reluctant but don’t want to offend either.

    Anyway, the point of this is that you gave me some good thoughts to ponder. I don’t want to feel like I’m wasting God’s time in my blogging.

    Now I’m going to go watch your video. 🙂

  62. Well I’m sorry I missed your giveaway but I’m so glad I got to see your video. You are quite a lady of God. 🙂

  63. Hey Mrs. Elaine,

    That’s funny that I have a twin on that video!:) I’ve been told I look like Rebecca St. James because of my curly hair too:) That’s cool, I like Rebecca St. James:) I’m a little more rested now. Loved the trip, thank you, thank you sooo much for praying for me. That is the best thing anyone can do for me is pray for me.

    Blessings,

    katiegfromtennessee

  64. In my current season, I’ve found God sustains and loves me tenderly. He is ever faithful!

    (Darn, I forgot to enter on Wednesday! 🙂 )

  65. What is the one thing you know to be most true about our God as it pertains to your most recent season of living?
    I’m in a difficult season of living right now but what I’ve found this past year that is most true about God is that when the world lets you down–he doesn’t. He is right next to me when I need him most. And my faith in Him has grown deeper by the day.

  66. Congrats on a year of blogging. What a blessing you have been to so many lives…Yeah…isn’t it great to see God work in such awesome ways…such as blog land. I love to come and see His hand over yours in this blog. May you continue to bless and be His girl in some new and exciting ways this next year. Love to you!

  67. You have been such a wonderful blessing to me this year. I’m so glad God crossed our paths.

  68. Hey there friend and HAPPY BlOGVERSARY!!! Hope I spelled that right.

    As I told the publisher at She Speaks, your writing moves me!

    I LOVED watching your video. You are such a gifted story-teller and exhorter of God’s truth. Love the picture you painted of your daddy running behind you reminding you of his love.

    Please don’t enter me in any drawings – your favorite things are already some of my favorite things :-).

    May God continue to anoint your words with His power and beauty!

    Hugs and love!
    Renee

  69. He is the REDEEMER:
    Not only has He redeemed me from ultimate condemnation but He is about redeeming his creation too, for it groans under the curse.

    Thanks for being a dear friend to me and mine. As we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I cling to my Redeemer who will recompense what we feel we have lost in this life!

  70. Oh Elaine-now I am laughing!! Yes…please laugh. The spiritual will come later-sometimes we need just a god laugh and release.

    As always, you are such a blessing!

    In His Graces~Pamela

  71. Forgive me, sweet Elaine. You know you are precious to me! I’m sorry I haven’t been here every day to comment…I’m here now, though! :o)

    What is the one thing you know to be most true about our God as it pertains to your most recent season of living?
    That He is my/our Provider. My husband, Bill, has been through unemployment twice in the last year. (The first time was a very hurtful situation…we were devastated.) Through both times, every bill has been paid, every need has been met. There were weeks when we had a stack of bills, we needed groceries, and we weren’t quite sure how we would manage to take care of everything. Then, we’d go to our mailbox and find that someone had sent us money….or gift cards for groceries.

    Another time, our church family presented us with a bag full of cards, filled with notes of encouragement, prayers, and money. We were totally surprised and blown away at the outpouring of love God sent to us through them!

    Not only was there provision for our physical needs, but God met our emotional and spiritual needs, too. Whenever we felt the situation was too difficult to bear, He was right there for us, sending people to minister to us, providing comfort and peace as only He can give.

    I know that whatever I/we face in the days ahead, Jehovah Jireh will provide a way for us to get through that time and grow closer to Him.

    Congratulations on your first year, my friend!

    Blessings…
    Beth

  72. Sorry, I didn’t understand this whole concept! OOOPS! So, I’m not sure what to write now either… bummer that I missed the whole week because I was too lazy to scroll down! Thanks for stretching my brain…

  73. Hi again Elaine!
    Though I know I missed the drawing for friday… I still wanted to answer the question about what I know to be most true about God in this season…
    I think I can boil it down to two things (sorry, can’t get it to one)

    The first is that He is more than enough. In every situation, in every praise, in every pain, in every triumph and in every failure. No matter what happens He loves me, he provides for me, and he is enough… MORE than enough.

    The second… He is my gracious healer. He has healed me from my past, continues to heal me now, and will heal me in the future.

    God has been so good. He has been teaching me about priorities (see my more recent post on my blog) and has opened my eyes to see how much He loves me, ever more, each day, and how He longs to provide for me in every way.
    I don’t always see it, probably because I am afraid to, but He loves me and will never let me go.

    Love you and may God bless you as you continue to share with us, and walk on this journey with us… in bloggy land, as well as real life. I can’t wait to meet you face to face someday… and to be able to tell you just how blessed I am by you.
    Love you so much,
    Heather

  74. Elaine, just a thanks again for what you are doing through “Peace for the Journey”. I have turned some of my friends onto your blog, and they are enjoying it as much as I am.

    You cause me to stop throughout my day and think about the things of which you write. I know that I am not the only one who is being blessed through your words.

    Thanks again and don’t stop, no matter how tired you get!!!

  75. Elaine-I went back to see when my first blog was recorded. I missed my one year anniversary but it was fun looking back, reading my heart, even seeing all those typo’s-can I never proof enough? Just call me professor(of which I am one. Grief). Even more fun was seeing how people like you entered into my world. What a blessing!

    Though we bloggers are miles apart, I have gained such treasured friends. I pray that one day we will be able to get together, sit down over a cup of coffee (or sweet tea) and just soak up each other’s company.

    You are such a sweet, sweet blessing!!

    In His Graces~Pamela

  76. I am truly thankful. Thankful for a Father who loves me…ME! With all of my sin and unworthiness, He holds me close, guiding me, setting my feet back on the path of righteousness. His mercies are new every morning. His grace knows no bounds. His salvation provides the assurance of an eternity with Him.

    I am thankful for the freedom to worship Him, to praise Him, to serve Him. Thankful for the men and women serving in our military. Thankful to those troops who have given their lives for that freedom.

    I am very thankful for the family God has given me. We have persevered through many challenging times. Times that would normally strain relationships. Through it all, our love for each other as husband, wife, parents, and children has continued to grow stronger.

    I am thankful for the friends that God has given me. You, Elaine, are a precious friend and sister-in-Christ! I have learned so much from you! God has given you great insight and passion to know more of Him. I look forward to the opportunity for our friendship to grow and deepen as we dig deeper into God’s word, striving to achieve His peace for the journey.

    Blessings to you, Billy, and your amazing family!

  77. Elaine, you already know about this, but for others who may be reading comments,I’m hosting an extra-fun giveaway on my blog this week. Scroll down to the Feb. 1st post.

    Have a good weekend, Elaine!

  78. On yesterday’s question….
    I would have to say provision. God has proven repeatedly to me that he is Jehovah-jireh. Even when we were at our lowest. He provided.

    Now…about your head spinning! REST and play some. Enjoy this weekend. Then come back and get busy on this here blog! 🙂

  79. Hi, my friend! Just wanted to say “Happy Blogaversery” (Blogiversery?) and “Congratulations!” on your internet cafe honor. It is much deserved. Your cyber-sisterhood is a joy and a blessing! 🙂

  80. Wow, this is cool how you’ve updated this! And I thought you hadn’t had anew blog post! I promise to email you very soon and let you know about the opportunity I have ahead, I just haven’t had a chance yet. So much going on in our family. But I’ma leanin’ on those Everlasting Arms! Thanks for your concern.

  81. Elaine, This has been fun and since I missed yesterdays prompt, I’ll answer it for today! The one thing that God has been really driving home for me the past couple of years (every day in small ways even still, because I am a slow learner) is that HIs timing is perfect. I just get so darn tired of waiting and He has to keep reminding me!

    Love you,
    laura

  82. I would love to sit and talk face to face too….sometimes I get tired of all these words.
    One day it will so great to walk and talk.
    Congrats on your year here in blogdom!

  83. Elaine:
    I have so enjoyed reading all the lovely comments on your blog this week. Happy Blogaversary and we look forward to another year of special thoughts from your pen.

    The comments blessed me so much. Quite a group of wonderful, godly ladies.

    Blessings,
    Marita

  84. “The day that Jesus interrupted my life with the truth of who he is …

    September 10th 1977. Broken and undone…… Many thought of suicide. Unworthy to hold my head up in a crowd….. Very physically abused and verbally abused.. A woman standing on the sideline, watching others live…… Hearing about their Father God……. I had no Father God…….HE came to be and offered me a seat at HIS table, HE gave me life and drew me unto HIMSELF.. I was born into the Kingdom….. I had shelter….. I will forever praise HIM for the life today and the life to come.

  85. I am priviledged to have discovered your blog and so think of us having a cup of tea and chatting and getting to know each other. Your heart shines so bright for Jesus. It has touched me in the short time I have been dropping by.

  86. Well, my speakers on my computer seem to have been obliterated overnight, so I can’t hear what you have to say (so I’ll look forward to seeing it again instead). I just wanted to say that I agree, the best ‘prize’ of all would be a conversation over a hot cuppa-something (I make a killer chai if you like that kind of thing). Maybe that can be next year’s anniversary prize!

  87. Elaine, I guess I’m late in posting my comment. First of all, happy blogiversary! I’ve enjoyed getting to know you through your writings and videos. I love your Southern accent.

    So many women do not have good role models of men because of their earthly fathers. You are blessed by the one the Lord gave you. I’m thankful that my dad and I are close too.

    I love your honesty and transparency. I also married young; age 20 and got divorced after five years. I’ve been married to Greg for 24 years now. But I had many prodigal years but I’m so glad to be home now. I thought I was having fun but I was missing out on precious time with my Savior. Nothing compares to that.

    You’re such a blessing Elaine. Keep up this blogging gig, friend.

  88. I would honestly, love to sit in your presence, such love and wisdom flow forth from you.

    Blesssings & shalom

error: Content is protected !!